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TearGosling

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club-floyd

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[ "animal protagonist", "IntroComp", "Introcomp 2015", "multiple protagonists", "nonhuman protagonist", "telepathy", "wilderness", "wolves" ]

[ 0, 2, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "May 27th, 2011\n\nSo, I'm glad you picked me as your study buddy for the final. I'd\njust like to warn you first that my methods of studying Latin are not what you would call normal. But I at least would call them effective, and that's what counts in the end. Now, to get started, let's imagine you are a wolf living in Siberia...\n\nAnd that would be enough solid travel for tonight. You still have the energy to get a drink and a bite to eat around here, though, so it isn't yet time for sleep.\n\nThe key landmark of this area is a pine whose span is decidedly more horizontal than those that surround it. No creatures have been around here: the only tracks are your own pawprints. You could go in any direction from here, but in terms of what is actually interesting you smell a stream not far to the east.\n\nSnowish precipitation is slowly falling from the night sky.\n\nType ABOUT for further information about this game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You make your way towards the stream.\n\nYou are on the west side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. On the other side of the stream there is an unfamiliar structure. The fallen pine should be back to the west.\n\nA reindeer carcass lies near the stream, far too old to consume.\n\nA sniff around confirms that the river creature responsible for your scars has not been here anytime recently and most certainly isn't here now.\n\nYou hear the hooting of an owl break the silence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the reindeer", "response": "The reindeer carcass is the work of a lynx long since gone. Unfortunately it would not be a good idea to eat this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying nothing in your mouth.\n\nA bit of sleet gets in your eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the structure", "response": "You've never sensed anything like this before: it's a structure you could go inside that blocks precipitation. A human has been inside and around it in the past, but it is safe at this moment. There's nothing inside, though, so there's no real point in entering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stream", "response": "The stream is fresh and safe to drink. It also should be crossable without trouble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You cross the stream, getting slightly wet in the process.\n\nYou are on the east side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. A reindeer carcass is on the other side of the stream. The forest on this side of the river and whatever lives in it are now readily accessible eastward.\n\nThere is an unfamiliar structure slightly bigger than you on this side of the stream. A human was around it for long periods of time in the past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou feel a slight pain from one of your slash scars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scars", "response": "The slash scars from that river creature tilt your posture towards the right. Not enough to be a real issue, though.\n\nLooking back at them, you notice that they are exactly the same. Injuries don't normally work that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Your speed and stamina make up for your relatively weak bite. You should be able to get by, even without company and with those slash scars on your left side, assuming that river creature doesn't lay another tentacle on you [1].\n\nTo read footnotes, use FOOTNOTE followed by the number of said footnote.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Footnote 1", "response": "By the way, if you want to know what the character you're playing\nas looks like, you should check out Mrs. Linoz's biology room. She has a lot of pictures of wolves on the front wall, and one of them—black on top, white on bottom, sitting like a sphinx with most of its body to the right of the photo—looks like the wolf you currently are. Except you have light blue eyes and, at least right now, those slash scars on your right side. Although the right side of the wolf in the picture isn't visible so, in theory...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "After a short walk you find yourself at a clearing.\n\nYou have arrived in a part of the forest suspiciously lacking in trees. There's more snow on the ground and in the air here, and the sky is more visible. Should none of this be of relevance, the trees on the edge of the clearing to the north form a cluster of evergreens, and the ground grows uneven towards the south. The stream should be back west.\n\nYou catch a scent of hare in the air. It's coming from the evergreens to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sniff", "response": "You have arrived in a part of the forest suspiciously lacking in trees. There's more snow on the ground and in the air here, and the sky is more visible. Should none of this be of relevance, the trees on the edge of the clearing to the north form a cluster of evergreens, and the ground grows uneven towards the south. The stream should be back west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You sneak into the evergreen cluster.\n\nEvergreen Cluster (hiding from the hare)\nThis is a place in the taiga where the trees keep most of their leaves even now in winter. You lie in the shadows at the moment, focused on your quarry.\n\nThe hare is hopping a bit in the center of the cluster. Hopefully this will be an easy catch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "As you wait, you find yourself craving some refreshing water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You catch the hare", "response": "Before going for that hare, it's best to really consider about what you're doing. You think that it's best to...\n\n1) chase the hare towards the stream.\n2) chase the hare towards the uneven ground south of the clearing.\n3) go for a very quick spring to end it all quickly.\n4) explore around a bit more before going for the hare.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You spring straight for the hare...\n...but just as you reach the hare's location with a sprint and a jump, you wind up grasping only snow with your jaws: the hare was quicker than you thought. By the time you finally get yourself back together and shake off the snow your quarry has already made its getaway. There's not really a hope of catching up at this point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You sneak east and with quick movement spook the hare towards running southwest. You give chase and arrive back near the stream.\n\nYou are on the east side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. A reindeer carcass is on the other side of the stream. The clearing is to the east.\n\nThere is an unfamiliar structure slightly bigger than you on this side of the stream. A human was around it for long periods of time in the past.\n\nThe hare is trying to escape you by crossing the stream. You aren't close enough for the kill yet, but the stream should slow it down more than you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You cross the stream, getting slightly more wet in the process.\n\nYou are on the west side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. On the other side of the stream there is an unfamiliar structure. The fallen pine should be back to the west.\n\nA reindeer carcass lies near the stream, far too old to consume.\n\nYou hear some movement up in the treetops.\n\nWhile you were crossing the stream, it appears that the hare managed to make a getaway to the southwest far faster than you could ever hope to catch up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You bend your head down towards the stream, noticing your reflection, and then proceed to lap the water. You find yourself taking a bit longer than usual, and not for lack of speed but for a desire for more and more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "You have already satiated your thirst. The stream is merely an obstacle now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You cross the stream, getting slightly more wet in the process.\n\nYou are on the east side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. A reindeer carcass is on the other side of the stream. The clearing is to the east.\n\nThere is an unfamiliar structure slightly bigger than you on this side of the stream. A human was around it for long periods of time in the past.\n\nA particularly speedy falling pellet of snow attracts your attention briefly before you realize it isn't prey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the snow", "response": "The amount of snow is such that the entire forest floor is covered, yet it isn't hard to walk through. Nothing could hide in this snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You head south, but find nothing but more stream nearby and soon make your way back to the bizarre structure.\n\nYou are on the east side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. A reindeer carcass is on the other side of the stream. The clearing is to the east.\n\nThere is an unfamiliar structure slightly bigger than you on this side of the stream. A human was around it for long periods of time in the past.\n\nYou feel a slight pain from one of your slash scars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "After a short walk you find yourself at the clearing.\n\nYou have arrived in a part of the forest suspiciously lacking in trees. There's more snow on the ground and in the air here, and the sky is more visible. Should none of this be of relevance, the trees on the edge of the clearing to the north form a cluster of evergreens, and the ground grows uneven towards the south. The stream should be back west.\n\nIt occurs to you that the forest has suddenly become quiet, except a rumbling of sorts to the southeast heading towards the clearing. Once it arrives all at once, it becomes quite clear indeed what it is. You are now in the midst of a blizzard, complete with shaking trees, lost visibility, and the extra sleet in your scars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You make your way back towards the stream.\n\nYou are on the east side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. A reindeer carcass is on the other side of the stream. The clearing is to the east.\n\nThe structure has collapsed in the face of the blizzard.\n\nA sheet of snow falls off from a nearby tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You cross the stream, getting slightly more wet in the process.\n\nYou are on the west side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. On the other side of the stream there is an unfamiliar structure. The fallen pine should be back to the west.\n\nA reindeer carcass lies near the stream, far too old to consume.\n\nA lot of sleet gets in your eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You find your way back to the pine.\n\nThe key landmark of this area is a pine whose span is decidedly more horizontal than those that surround it. No creatures have been around here: the only tracks are your own pawprints. You could go in any direction from here, but in terms of what is actually interesting the stream is not far to the east.\n\nYou feel quite some pain from one of your slash scars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pine", "response": "(the fallen pine)\nThe tree has lost almost all of its distinguishing characteristics: the leaves are either gone or wilted, and the flying squirrels haven't been on it.\n\nOh, and let's not forget to mention that no other wolves have suggested that this place is important to their territory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter fallen Pine", "response": "You climb up the fallen pine.\n\nNear the Fallen Pine (on the fallen pine)\nThe key landmark of this area is a pine whose span is decidedly more horizontal than those that surround it. No creatures have been around here: the only tracks are your own pawprints. You could go in any direction from here, but in terms of what is actually interesting the stream is not far to the east.\n\nYou feel quite some snow buffeting your side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pee on fallen Pine", "response": "You are not going to be here long, but there isn't really anything wrong with marking your territory. So you lift your leg near the fallen pine and establish your domain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You make your way back towards the stream.\n\nYou are on the west side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. On the other side of the stream there is an unfamiliar structure. The fallen pine should be back to the west.\n\nA reindeer carcass lies near the stream, far too old to consume.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the reindeer", "response": "It's too old for that to be effective.\n\nYour legs quiver. If you don't get out of this blizzard you may be in trouble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You find your way back to the pine.\n\nThe key landmark of this area is a pine whose span is decidedly more horizontal than those that surround it. No creatures have been around here: the only tracks are your own pawprints. You could go in any direction from here, but in terms of what is actually interesting the stream is not far to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You cross the stream, getting slightly more wet in the process.\n\nYou are on the east side of a somewhat shallow stream that continues as far as you can sense to the north and south. A reindeer carcass is on the other side of the stream. The clearing is to the east.\n\nThe structure has collapsed in the face of the blizzard.\n\nYou hear some fast movement up in the treetops.\n\nA cool waft of air reminds you that time is running out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "After a short walk you find yourself at the clearing.\n\nYou have arrived in a part of the forest suspiciously lacking in trees. There's more snow on the ground and in the air here, and the full extent of the blizzard is clear. Should none of this be of relevance, the trees on the edge of the clearing to the north form a cluster of evergreens, and the ground grows uneven towards the south. The stream should be back west.\n\nA sheet of snow falls off from a nearby tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You head into the uneven ground.\n\nThe protruding rocks and sporadic holes turn into a complete descent the further south they go, providing entrance into a maw underneath the southern forest floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You enter the cave, taking shelter from the blizzard.\n\nMany passageways are around this cavern, the biggest one being the one to the west, which leads into a strange room with a bizarre glow.\n\nYou are distracted by a glow to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glow", "response": "Very peculiar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This cavern's shape is peculiar: the floor and the south, west, and north walls are all flat, while the way out back to the east retains the regular cave structure.\n\nPure power is emanating all around the cavern from a glowing circle on the west cave wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the circle", "response": "The closer you are to the glowing circle, the more wise you feel. There are markings on the circle, which you understand are there to retain information for the future.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the circle", "response": "As you put your paw on the circle, darkened lightning fires from the circle into you!\nNew thoughts flash before you. Dots upon dots connected by lines, split into two territories. Humans, in a great city (where, when\ndid you learn what that a city is?), and then the entire world at once, with lines connecting at a landmass that looks like a leg in the sea...\n\nYou remember the summer day that The Tide came very well: first the flood reports, then the reports of walking black cephalopod creatures laying waste to all in their path, then the redundant confirmation that said creatures weren't really cephalopods. And now, five months later, the naval powers of the world are down for the count, the coasts of the Americas and Europe are miles inland from where they used to be, and the showdown of the underdog militias versus the alien invaders is simply not going the way it does in the movies.\n\nThere's really only one hope that remains: communication. From their strategic groupings to the biological weapons they use with their tentacles, it's clear that the creatures are intelligent. But, despite all the work you've been involved with, there hasn't been the slightest improvement in bridging the gap.\n\nNow, however, a dispatch has informed you that you were selected to join a secret government project that has been said to be the best hope yet. The details weren't given out, but, now that you are in the facility, you will soon be familiarized with the new plan.\n\nYou've wanted to communicate across species as long as you can remember, and now you may just get your chance.\n\nA featureless west-east hallway located somewhere underneath Nebraska, ending to the west in a doorway marked 11-14-09.\n\nThe man opens up the west doorway, revealing a viewing room of some sort beyond, and beckons you inside. \"I trust that you understand that what you are about to see is highly classified.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Dr. Huncel Clark, young, apparently bright geneticist. Bright enough that you were invited to be involved with this project.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Topics: wolf\n\nThe man closes the door behind you.\n\nYou survey the room around you. There are several desks with new (for once) computers on top, set up so that those using the computers would be able to make glances at the viewing window on the west end of the room, where noted ethologist Miranda Heather currently stands.\n\nYou glance into the cell beyond the viewing window. You spy a\nwolf, curled up, facing the back wall of its prison.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at man", "response": "The man with you is one of those people who you are supposed to never talk to anyone about. You don't even know his name even with your newfound security clearance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wolf", "response": "Topics: none\n\n\"What is this wolf here for?\"\n\nMiranda Heather is the first to respond: \"You wouldn't believe me if I told you. Try knocking on the window.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the window", "response": "Topics: yes or no\n\nYou give a few solid knocks on the barrier that separates you and the wolf, but, aside from the predictable slight ear movement, it doesn't react.\n\nHowever, you do experience sudden feelings of apathy for no apparent reason at all. It's as if some incorporeal person is nagging you to pay attention to a topic you don't care about in the slightest.\n\n\"Did you feel that?\" Miranda asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Topics: telepathy\n\n\"The apathy?\"\n\n\"That would be the wolf's feeling. He has the astonishing ability to broadcast his thoughts and feelings to other beings. Unless we want to sound more refined than science fiction and parapsychology, I do dare say that telepathy is the term to use.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Telepathy", "response": "Topics: commune and new to us\n\n\"Telepathy? What sort of mechanism could cause such a concept? Why hasn't anything like this been observed before?\"\n\n\"Such questions are amongst those we're seeking answers for: he's still very new to us, a week or so. He has been dubbed 'The Ambassador' since we hope his abilities could lead us to a way to commune with The Tide. He doesn't like The Tide, much like us,\nbut he's our option.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "New to us", "response": "Topics: mind and commune\n\n\"Where and how was he found?\"\n\n\"He was found in Siberia during the search for a missing hiker named Clarence Pankov. Mr. Pankov was found wounded and out of his\nmind, as told on the news. What wasn't reported was that this\nwolf was only a kilometer away.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Mind", "response": "Topics: overload and commune\n\n\"And I assume The Ambassador is the culprit in Clarence's insanity?\"\n\n\"Almost certainly. He's known to telepathically overload\nothers, leaving them quite a mess for some time. This appears to be very taxing on the body, for he is tired or even swoons shortly afterwards.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Overload", "response": "Topics: commune\n\n\"Is there still-\"\n\n\"-a risk of being overloaded? We hope not.\" She smiles. \"He's been conditioned to understand that overloading humans means no treats.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Commune", "response": "Topics: none\n\n\"Do you know if his telepathy works with Tide creatures?\"\n\n\"It doesn't at the moment. His telepathy works especially well with humans and probably other wolves in his rare subspecies Canis\nlupus flaukulla [2], judging by his weakened telepathy with dogs.\nIf there's a way for him to communicate with humans, I think we have a shot at extending it all the way to The Tide.\"\n\nThe man interrupts. \"Now that the extent of The Ambassador's abilities have been established, I think it is time that Dr. Clark try a conversation with The Ambassador. He should open up the channel after another knock [3].\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Footnote", "response": "soundtrack and started playing it a lot on the way to school and in other trips. One of the songs she played the most is called \"Help Yourself.\" I was thinking about the first meeting of The\nAmbassador and Huncel at about the same time, and rather quickly I noticed the thematic similarities between the song's lyrics and their meeting. Whenever I heard the song I would bend the lyrics in my head to better correspond to the scene.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Footnote 2", "response": "And there's some Latin via scientific naming! Canis, canis,\nmasculine, meaning dog, and lupus, lupi, masculine, meaning wolf. Flaukulla (flaw-cola) is a word I made up—supposedly the surname of a fictional 19th-century naturalist, but that's not too relevant. What's also not too relevant but is pretty interesting is that when I was first thinking of all this back last year in 8th grade I had never written or typed the word Flaukulla down anywhere, so I just sort of imagined what it looked like typed out, and it turned out to look nothing like I imagined even though I knew the spelling. Interesting psychological effect, eh?\n\nAnyways, the serious Latin and Roman culture has yet to come.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wolf", "response": "Black on top, white on bottom, with three slash scars on his side. He seems very bored and disinterested with his surroundings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "A room with several desks with computers on top, set up so that those using the computers would be able to make glances at the viewing window on the west end of the room, where Miranda Heather currently stands along with the man.\n\nThe Ambassador continues to stare at nothing with his back to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the computers", "response": "Completely blank: not even screensavers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the window", "response": "Topics: greeting, curiosity, and amazement\n\nYou knock on the glass once more. This time, you feel more than just an emotion: you feel a sudden new ability to put your thoughts into a different channel, one that leads away from your mind. Clearly The Ambassador is allowing you to send information to him. What to send, though? Thoughts of curiosity, amazement, or maybe you\ncould work out some sort of interspecies greeting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Curiosity", "response": "Topics: feed, hunger, etiquette, and\namazement\n\nWhat better emotion to open up with than the foundation of scientific inquiry?\n\nYou broadcast questions about how and why, questions both about his abilities and more classical lupine life. He ignores the former and responds to the latter with a request for some tasty reindeer. Or perhaps he just wants reindeer. Either way, he still is curled up and not facing you. They may have convinced him to not overload anyone, but it seems human communication etiquette has yet to be worked in.\n\nYou think (to yourself, you hope and suspect) of some ways to go further. You could invoke his desire for reindeer, either by asking the man to feed him or asking The Ambassador about\nhunger. Suggesting he obey proper etiquette might make\neverything easier if he complies, or, lastly, you could try to see if your amazement at him can lead somewhere interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Feed", "response": "Topics: health, hunger, etiquette, and\namazement\n\nYou turn to the man. \"He's asking for some reindeer. Can you comply?\"\n\n\"Unfortunately I cannot. Although the vet did say that The Ambassador appears to require more sustenance than is normal for a wolf of his size and age, we have already taken that into account. He seems to have other health issues too, so we don't want to take any\nchances.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Health", "response": "Topics: hunger, etiquette, and amazement\n\n\"He has health issues of what sort?\"\n\nThe man takes a paper and clipboard from one of the desks and hands it to you. \"Here, read the vet's notes when you have time.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the notes", "response": "A quick skim suggests The Ambassador requires more food, drink, and sleep than is considered healthy, has periods of intense fatigue right next to periods of hyperactivity, and is injured across his right side (presumably the slash scars you see before you). His telepathic powers are then listed in the same space as everything else as if they were a health problem too, which they may very well be depending on your definitions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Etiquette", "response": "Topics: dominance, humanity, and amazement\n\nLet's see if he complies.\n\nYou insist to The Ambassador that he face you because then you might have a better chance at understanding him. To establish the idea further in both of your heads, you cite some of your own socializing problems from your childhood. In the midst of all, though, The Ambassador abruptly fills your mind with thoughts along the human lines of \"You don't control me.\"\n\nPossible ways to respond to this new conversational twist would be to talk about the problems of dominance in conversation and\nelsewhere, or maybe you could tell him all about some of the greatness of humanity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dominance", "response": "Topics: Tide, humanity, and amazement\n\nYou try to visualize that sort of communication-feedback loop you'd find in a textbook in your mind and explain how proper communication works and why proper communication is important. You then apologize for trying to force etiquette into him so early. The Ambassador abruptly decides to speak about how much he hates a quite familiar kind of creature that he encountered that is responsible for his distinctive scars.\n\nAh, so you both have troubles with The Tide. That's another\npossible topic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tide", "response": "The moment your mind makes the slightest reference to The Tide, The Ambassador turns around to face you, and for the first time you notice his snout and his light blue eyes...\nTopics: displeasure\nAmbassador\nhis snout and his light blue eyes...Cell (trapped)\nA room with nothing of interest for you at the moment (sometimes there's delicious food and water). There is another inaccessible room to the east, which has a few humans in it, one of whom you don't know yet.\n\nYou get up on your legs. Feelings of displeasure towards The\nTide are about, both from you and the new human.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Displeasure", "response": "Topics: decrease and increase\nAmbassador\n\nYou voice your displeasure towards The Tide to the new human. Strangely, he seems bizarrely disturbed by your desire, even though he is an enemy of The Tide too. You could increase the intensity\n(always pleasurable) or decrease the intensity (more likely to\nget a treat).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Decrease", "response": "Topics: increase\nAmbassador\n\nThe Tide's obliteration is far more important than treats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Increase", "response": "You ignore the human's lack of comfort with your feeling and just continue the onslaught. He starts to panic, and the other humans rush to him. But he isn't The Tide's ally: why would he be panicked?\n\nThe other humans give a look towards you, the look they give when they don't give you anything. You've had your delicious fill of anger for now, so now it's probably time to avoid losing delicious food. Since closing the channel on a newbie also makes you lose food, the best idea is probably to strike up some other topic...\nTopics: yes or no\nidea is probably to strike up some other topic...## Viewing Room\nYour focus is only on the man, Miranda, and The Ambassador.\n\n\"He 'doesn't like' The Tide? You mean, he'd kill us all just to do the slightest bit of damage to it?\"\n\nThe man tries to calm you down. \"Relax, Huncel, relax. The Tide is the greatest threat to civil society that has ever appeared in all of history. Shouldn't we share his anger?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Topics: job\n\n\"I suppose.\"\n\nThe Ambassador continues the conversation. He is now wondering what your job is. It appears he has been taught a bit about human\nsociety, then.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Job", "response": "Topics: relatives\n\nIt feels like you are getting more used to telepathic conversation.\n\n\"Ambassador, I'm someone who studies inheritance. Why you share\ntraits with your parents, and why your progeny would share traits with you. That's my job.\"\n\nHe doesn't seem to know how to respond properly, which you infer from his thoughts rather than out of telepathic silence. Progress! Maybe more talk about his relatives is warranted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Relatives", "response": "Topics: hatred and reach\n\n\"What do you remember about your parents?\"\n\n\"They cared for me a long time ago. My mother died shortly before\nI left the pack.\" The voice in your mind sounds a bit like a\nteenage voice to you, maybe because that's the sort of voice you'd imagine saying something along those lines. You also infer that his mother's death was natural and unrelated to The Tide.\n\nWell, now feels like a good time to talk about the mighty reach\nof humanity. Then again, the reach of humanity is being torn down by The Tide, so maybe you should focus the conversation towards his hatred of The Tide again, assuming you are less squeamish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hatred", "response": "\"Ambassador, although I'm not sure you should hate The Tide at the level you do, it is a grave threat to both our livelihoods. We are having troubles fighting The Tide directly: perhaps with your help we can understand The Tide and convince it to leave us alone. You are our hope, and we will make sure that your livelihood is far beyond what you would previously dream of.\"\n\nYou sense some happiness and contentment from The Ambassador, but then he starts to send some fatigue. Soon, you feel the telepathic channel closing, and your mind snaps back fully into conventional reality, where you notice The Ambassador starting to lie down once more.\n\n\"Seems The Ambassador is taking a nap. Is that scheduled?\"\n\nThe man looks down at his watch quickly and then says, \"About right. Remember that everything that happened in this room is classified. Not that anyone would believe you, anyway...\"\n\nThe wilderness vanishes again as you awaken.\n\nSleeping Cell (on the sleeping cushion)\nThis is the cell where you sleep. Really, you'll sleep wherever the cushion is, but the humans insist that you should do tasks in the rooms designated for them.\n\nA bell cord is hanging from the door out to the west.\n\nYou can also smell a chew toy here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toy", "response": "The chew toy smells a bit like reindeer hide but is shaped like a bone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cord", "response": "Pulling the bell cord will ring the bell on the other side of the door which will summon Huncel who will open the door which will allow you to walk into the main room where Huncel will run some 'experiments' on you which will result in you getting treats.\n\nHuncel throws out a bunch of human names like 'Pavlov' and 'Goldberg' in his absent-minded telepathic mumblings describing the process.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chew toy", "response": "(first taking the chew toy)\nIt's just not the same without the Tide scent that Huncel put on the prior chew toys before you destroyed them. You chew a bit anyways, though the center of your attention is the bell cord.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the sleeping cushion.\n\nThis is the cell where you sleep. Really, you'll sleep wherever the cushion is, but the humans insist that you should do tasks in the rooms designated for them.\n\nYour sleeping cushion occupies the center of the room.\n\nA bell cord is hanging from the door out to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the toy", "response": "You open your mouth a little and the chew toy falls to the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(first opening the facility door)\nOnly Huncel is able to open this door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull cord", "response": "You pull the cord as far as it goes and hear the bell ringing. Next up is Huncel's arrival.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is the cell where you sleep. Really, you'll sleep wherever the cushion is, but the humans insist that you should do tasks in the rooms designated for them.\n\nYour sleeping cushion occupies the center of the room.\n\nA bell cord is hanging from the door out to the west.\n\nYou can also smell a chew toy here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(first opening the facility door)\nOnly Huncel is able to open this door.\n\nYou hear Huncel's footsteps from the other side of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"The door opens. Huncel [4], clearly tired and a bit clumsy, walks through it and activates the light. You open the telepathic channel shortly after he pets you around the ears.\n\n\"Good dusk, Ambassador! Everything is ready in the main room. I'm\nsure you are ready to walk in!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Footnote 4", "response": "Back in November 2009 in Social Studies everyone in my class did a report on an important figure in early 19th century American history. We all found a quote and made a trinket concerning our chosen person. I ended up doing a report on William Clark, with his legendary misspelled journal entry \"Ocian in view! O! The Joy!\" and a simple cardboard telescope. I was focused enough on the report that I suddenly started calling that as-of-yet-unnamed scientist in that as-of-yet-unnamed story I was making \"Dr. Clark.\"\n\nThen, in late April 2010, I had a bizarre dream that gave me Dr. Clark's first name: the unusual name of Huncel (Hon-cell, with hon as in honey). I believe I came up with the name of Beyond\nDivision at about the same time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Topics: straight and treats\n\nThe first thing you notice is a lack of any temporary features in the room this time: all that is here is the usual canine accoutrements and human furniture. The sleeping cell is east and the rest of this place is to the north.\n\nHuncel takes a seat on the recliner and gestures you to get on the rug below it if you want.\n\n\"So, in lieu of what we normally do, how about we talk a bit? I believe at this point you are more willing than previously to just talk about you and your feelings.\"\n\nQuery as to whether this will still lead to treats, or jump\nstraight in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the rug", "response": "Topics: straight and treats\n\nYou get onto the rug.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Treats", "response": "Topics: food, mate, and opportunities\n\n\"Will you still give treats?\"\n\n\"Yes, this counts as an experiment. And the first part of the test\nwas whether you'd question the possibility of treats due to the significant change. Good job, you've earned an extra eventual\ntreat!\" Huncel sends you a weird vision, and then, detecting your\nlack of understanding, assures you that it is supposed to represent a human smiling.\n\n\"So, Ambassador, are you content at this moment?\"\n\nLament the lack of opportunities to tear The Tide up, or lament\nthe lack of a mate? It feels like Huncel is hinting something\nmore around the food end of things, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Opportunities", "response": "Topics: interloping, injured, and damage\n\nYou send all the messages you can that imply that you'd want to spend the rest of your life at war with The Tide, but Huncel sends exasperation and his emotional memories of the glass incident: how he was worried he couldn't control and that you would endanger everyone in the facility including yourself, plus the paternal feelings he's trying and failing to hide. Seems Huncel will never give that up.\n\n\"That does bring us elsewhere though. We humans often ask why. Why\nis the sky blue, why do you have your abilities, why do we do what we do? So I ask you: why do you hate The Tide the way do you?\"\n\nWell, Huncel hates The Tide because of its damage to humanity,\nand The Tide injured you. What reason do you need though? The\nTide is an interloping force.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Injured", "response": "Topics: yes or no\n\nYou repeat your encounter with The Tide.\n\n\"There's still something more, Ambassador. Maybe you don't know it yourself, but something unprecedented must have happened to you. In the entire history of humanity there is not one case of a wolf or anything at all with telepathy like yours, and other animals pretty much never get that angry at the species of something that attacked them.\"\n\nThe back of your mind screams at a possible reason for it all, but you just can't bring it up into something concrete.\n\n\"Well, I know you're against The Tide and all, but aren't you\nhappy that you don't have to hunt anymore? This would be a paradise for you if your motivations were that of a typical wolf.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"It just doesn't make me that happy.\"\n\n\"Well, it should. You do like treats at least. Speaking of which,\nI'll go get them now. Just stay here for a bit and maybe play with one of your chew toys.\"\n\nAnd Huncel leaves north and closes the door behind him. You cut the channel and have your mind entirely to yourself once again.\n\nHuncel is The Tide's enemy. You are The Tide's enemy. But Huncel still doesn't understand your actions. Next glass incident, you'll actually break through the glass and bite the creature beyond it. You know it already.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Superhero" ]

[ "TADS", "TADS 2", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 2, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "GlkTADS - A text-only TADS 2.5.3 Interpreter.\n\nMaintained by Stephen Granade <sgranade@phy.duke.edu>\n\nCONGRATULATIONS!\nYou may already be a winner!\n\nHave you ever wondered what life is about? Do you look for happiness but never find it? Does joy, fulfilment, and the answer to world peace always slip right through your fingers? Are you thinking right now, \"I'm a born loser?\"\n\nWell, we at Hero, Inc once thought that too! Until we found the ultimate answer to all of these questions and more. And, for a limited time only, we've decided to make OUR happiness YOURS! Yes, you can be a hero too! Simply fill out the handy Special Introductory Offer Form attached and all your dreams could be about to come true!\n\nOne lucky winner will receive a FREE all-expenses paid Passport to the Heroic Adventure of a lifetime! (*) Runners up receive thousands of dollars (**) worth in prizes! There are NO STRINGS ATTACHED! NONE! (***)\n\nSincerely yours,\nThe Manager,\nHero, Inc\n\n(*) - Actual length of lifetime may vary depending on participant.\n(**) - Dollar values are an estimated equivalent only.\n(***) - None that can be considered legally binding.\n\nHERO, INC Part One\n\"Calling All Heroes\"\nAn Interactive Fantasy\n\nThis is your bedroom. It would be hard to find a more ordinary room, or a more ordinary house, than this. It contains a perfectly normal bed, a completely everyday desk, and a decidedly un-heroic cupboard. A door to the north leads out to the quite average hallway beyond.\n\nSitting on the desk is a letter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine desk", "response": "On the desk you see a letter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the letter", "response": "The letter, which you read in the introduction, is addressed to J. Random Hero. There appears to be a Special Introductory Offer form attached.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "CONGRATULATIONS!\nYou may already be a winner!\n\nHave you ever wondered what life is about? Do you look for happiness but never find it? Does joy, fulfilment, and the answer to world peace always slip right through your fingers? Are you thinking right now, \"I'm a born loser?\"\n\nWell, we at Hero, Inc once thought that too! Until we found the ultimate answer to all of these questions and more. And, for a limited time only, we've decided to make OUR happiness YOURS! Yes, you can be a hero too! Simply fill out the handy Special Introductory Offer Form attached and all your dreams could be about to come true!\n\nOne lucky winner will receive a FREE all-expenses paid Passport to the Heroic Adventure of a lifetime! (*) Runners up receive thousands of dollars (**) worth in prizes! There are NO STRINGS ATTACHED! NONE! (***)\n\nSincerely yours,\nThe Manager,\nHero, Inc\n\n(*) - Actual length of lifetime may vary depending on participant.\n(**) - Dollar values are an estimated equivalent only.\n(***) - None that can be considered legally binding.\n\nThere does indeed appear to be a Special Introductory Offer form attached.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine form", "response": "To make your choice, tick either the first or second box.\n\nYES! I WANT TO BE A GUARANTEED WINNER! Please rush me IMMEDIATELY your Special Introductory Offer Pack with all the information I need to enter Hero, Inc's amazing once-in-a-lifetime adventure opportunity!\n\nI understand there is ABSOLUTELY NO OBLIGATION and that I can withdraw from the contest at any time if I am in any way disappointed.\n\n(There is a large box about 1 inch square beside this statement).\n\nNO, I AM A WIMP. I don't even want to think about heroic deeds, let alone try something I know I'm going to fail at horribly. In fact, I think I'll jump off the Post Office Tower right now and end my miserable life. I'm not signing anything. Just go away and leave me alone.\n\n(There is no second box).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tick box", "response": "What do you want to tick it with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a letter.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is your bedroom. It would be hard to find a more ordinary room, or a more ordinary house, than this. It contains a perfectly normal bed, a completely everyday desk, and a decidedly un-heroic cupboard. A door to the north leads out to the quite average hallway beyond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cupboard", "response": "The cupboard is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opening the cupboard reveals a ballpoint pen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pen", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tick box", "response": "(with the ballpoint pen)\nYou carefully tick the large box with the ballpoint pen. No sooner is the ink dry than the letter begins to vibrate! As you watch, it shrinks, warps, and turns itself inside out, sealing the enclosed Special Introductory Offer form into a cleverly pre-printed envelope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This hallway connects the various rooms which make up your perfectly ordinary house. Your bedroom is south, the bathroom is east, the kitchen is north, and the lounge is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The lounge is the most impressive room in your house. A giant large-screen TV takes pride of place against one wall, and an equally imposing soft and comfy sofa sits facing it. To the west is your front door (closed), and smaller doors lead northeast to the kitchen and east to the hall.\n\nSitting on the TV set is a video cassette.\n\nWith a sudden pang of terrible guilt, you remember that the videotape is overdue. You move unconsciously to pick the cursed thing up before you forget it again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are outside your ordinary house, the front door of which is open to the east. It is a bright sunny day, and birds are singing happily from the trees at each side of the street. Maple Drive leads north and south from here, and Post Office Park is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(Closing your front door)\nPost Office Park\nYou are walking in Post Office Park, a quaint old grassy field extending to the road in all directions. In the distance you can see your house, a garage, some stores, the library and school, and of course the very new and modern Post Office Tower to the north. Before you, in the centre of the park, is a dingy old dribbling fountain.\n\nA child runs past, laughing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are standing outside the very new and extremely modern Post Office Tower, a shining monument to Fairhaven's progress, standing a full fifteen stories tall. You can enter the lobby to the north, or walk into the equally famous (though much older) Post Office Park to the south. Elm Street continues east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Post Office Tower, lobby\nYou are in the shining new ground-floor lobby of the Post Office Tower. The sheer size and architectural elegance of this room takes your breath away. A plaque and call button are mounted on the north wall, next to the lift doors (which are closed). The grand entrance doors to the south lead back out to the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plaque", "response": "Floor 1 ........... Lobby\nFloor 3 ........... Post Office\nFloor 8 ........... Fairhaven Bank\nFloor 15 ........... Observation Deck\n\nAll other floors are off-limits to the public.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in the Post Office Tower's sleek, ultra-modern lift car.\nBeside the doors to the south (currently open) is a sleek, futuristic keypad and display.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Post Office Tower, Floor 3\nThis large, bustling room must be the new Post Office. A steady flow of customers make their way up to the counter, where a lone mail clerk stands ready to serve them. The sleek, ultra-modern lift opens to the north.\n\nThe mail clerk shuffles some papers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the envelope to the clerk", "response": "The clerk takes the envelope, nods, and drops it into a bin. \"Same day delivery, I see. We'll have the reply delivered to you before you know it. Thanks for using the Post Office!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Post Office Tower, lobby\nYou are in the shining new ground-floor lobby of the Post Office Tower. The sheer size and architectural elegance of this room takes your breath away. A plaque and call button are mounted on the north wall, next to the lift doors (which are open). The grand entrance doors to the south lead back out to the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are on the pavement outside Fairhaven's public school, which runs to the northeast. Elm Street runs west of here, and Maple Drive starts to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are walking in Post Office Park, a quaint old grassy field extending to the road in all directions. In the distance you can see your house, a garage, some stores, the library and school, and of course the very new and modern Post Office Tower to the north. Before you, in the centre of the park, is a dingy old dribbling fountain.\n\nSome birds chirrup as you walk past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are outside a small garage which sells petrol and services motor vehicles. The workshop opens to the south, and Oak Street continues east and west. To the north, Post Office Park is visible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are on a quiet street corner in the little town of Fairhaven.\nMaple Drive runs north from here to your house, while Oak Street runs west. A rusty old manhole (closed) is set squarely in the middle of the road.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are outside your ordinary house, the front door of which is closed to the east. It is a bright sunny day, and birds are singing happily from the trees at each side of the street. Maple Drive leads north and south from here, and Post Office Park is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(Opening your front door)\n(Closing your front door)\nLounge\nThe lounge is the most impressive room in your house. A giant large-screen TV takes pride of place against one wall, and an equally imposing soft and comfy sofa sits facing it. To the west is your front door (closed), and smaller doors lead northeast to the kitchen and east to the hall.\n\nYou see a parcel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the parcel", "response": "It's addressed to:\n\nJ. Random Hero\nMaple Drive\nFairhaven\n\nand stamped: URGENT! HERO, INC SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER PACK!\n\nThe parcel is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opening the parcel reveals a pair of 3D glasses, a digital watch, a yellow Magic Marker, a plastic cape, and a packing slip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the slip", "response": "HERO, INC SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER PACK\n\nPlease find enclosed the following:\n1 x Sword of Virtue\n1 x Amulet of Counsel\n1 x Cape of Many Things (Deluxe Hero Edition)\n1 x Nth-Dimensional Imager (pair)\n\nGeneral Instructions:\n\nCongratulations on entering the Hero, Inc Adventure Of A Lifetime Contest. In order to qualify for the Grand Prize, all applicants must report to the Convention Site in their local town with proof of their heroic exploits, no later than midnight on the date of the contest.\nThe Hero equipment enclosed is provided for your safety and comfort, please use it. New applicants may experience some disorientation adjusting to dimension shifts, this is quite normal and does not in any way indicate a fault in the imaging equipment. Hero, Inc shall not be liable in any way, legal or otherwise, for loss of health, existence or sanity caused by taking part in this Contest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Amulet", "response": "You've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You have a ballpoint pen, a video cassette, and a yellow Magic Marker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the pen", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "You slip the cape over your shoulders. Suddenly your hands feel light and free.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "As you slip the watch over your wrist, it slides to an exact comfortable fit. The watch beeps and displays: \"GOOD MOVE\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "As you put the glasses over your eyes, you feel a faint tingling sensation down your spine. Everything somehow looks sharper than before.\n\nThe TV suddenly switches itself on! The sofa begins crackling with a red glow.\n\nA deep sinister chuckle rolls out from the TV set. Black clouds and lightning flash across the screen, and a station logo appears. Choir girls chorus the words: \"NYTV, The Nytemare Channel. We're Only A Scream Away.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The lounge is the most impressive room in your house. A giant large-screen TV takes pride of place against one wall, and an equally imposing soft and comfy sofa sits facing it. To the west is your front door (closed), and smaller doors lead northeast to the kitchen and east to the hall.\n\nYou see a parcel and a ballpoint pen here. The parcel seems to contain a packing slip.\n\nThe sofa is surrounded by a crackling red glow. You feel a strong static force pulling you towards it.\n\n\"Hey there, this is Drac Thornwood telling YOU to watch NYTV, The Nytemare Channel. Don't even THINK of touching that dial, 'cos have we got one HELL of a great lineup for you tonight! But first, a word from our sponsor!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pen", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe screen goes to an ad break.\n\n\"When you see crime, pollution, toxic waste, social breakdown, and nuclear Armageddon, who do you think of? The Nytemare Corporation, that's who. We're the world leader in all these fields and more. So remember, next time you need a disaster of Biblical proportions in your neighbourhood, call us. The Nytemare Corporation. Because we know where you live.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This hallway connects the various rooms which make up your perfectly ordinary house. Your bedroom is south, the bathroom is east, the kitchen is north, and the lounge is west.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The bathroom seems normal enough. There's a sink, toilet, and shower, and two doors leading west to the hall and north to the laundry.\n\nThere is a very strange creature in the room. It is a huge bloated balloon of a thing, covered in translucent black skin, with a puffy face and watery, bloodshot eyes which try to focus on you with some difficulty. The creature yawns and waddles drunkenly. It appears to be filling the entire laundry and most of the bathroom, as only its head and upper body is visible here. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"HYDROPHOBIA\".\n\nThe Sword of Virtue tingles in your hands.\n\nThe Hydrophobia slurps noisily and bangs on a nearby waterpipe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the HYDROPHOBIA", "response": "It is a huge bloated balloon of a thing, covered in translucent black skin, with a puffy face and watery, bloodshot eyes which try to focus on you with some difficulty. The creature yawns and waddles drunkenly. It appears to be filling the entire laundry and most of the bathroom, as only its head and upper body is visible here. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\nThe Hydrophobia dribbles in your general direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack it with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the Hydrophobia. The sword's blade strikes the creature in a shower of yellow sparks.\n\nThe Hydrophobia does a double take.\n\n\"'Ullo, wot's this ere? An 'Ero with a bloomin' Sword of Virtue?\nWell, I was just leaving anyway. I'll be seein' you around, matey. Next time, MY place.\"\n\nThe creature oozes at you for a moment then shrinks into the laundry and gurgles down a pipe. There is a burp from somewhere underground, followed by silence. The laundry door slowly swings open.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The laundry is one of the least-visited rooms in your house, and it's not hard to see why. The single washing machine (glowing yellow) is nearly buried under a huge pile of unwashed clothes. Doors lead out to the west and south.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "It shines with a soft yellow glow. The washing machine is closed.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the machine", "response": "Opening the washing machine reveals a glowing spray bottle.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "It's a spray bottle. The label reads:\n\nNew Improved WHITO!\nAnti-Static Spray and Heavy-Duty Stain Remover\nProduct of Hero, Inc.\n\nThe bottle shines with a soft yellow glow.\n\nStrange. You don't remember seeing this bottle before.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bottle", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The bathroom seems normal enough. There's a sink, toilet, and shower, and two doors leading west to the hall and north to the laundry.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This hallway connects the various rooms which make up your perfectly ordinary house. Your bedroom is south, the bathroom is east, the kitchen is north, and the lounge is west.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is your bedroom. It would be hard to find a more ordinary room, or a more ordinary house, than this. It contains a perfectly normal bed, a completely everyday desk, and a decidedly un-heroic cupboard. A door to the north leads out to the quite average hallway beyond.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is the kitchen. A bench, microwave and refrigerator all appear to be their usual selves. Doors lead south to the hall, southwest to the lounge, and east to the laundry.\n\nYou hear the TV playing in the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "The lounge is the most impressive room in your house. A giant large-screen TV takes pride of place against one wall, and an equally imposing soft and comfy sofa sits facing it. To the west is your front door (closed), and smaller doors lead northeast to the kitchen and east to the hall.\n\nYou see a parcel here. The parcel seems to contain a packing slip.\n\nThe sofa is surrounded by a crackling red glow. You feel a strong static force pulling you towards it.\n\n\"Drac Thornwood back again. Just take a look at this season's new offerings, and I do mean OFFERINGS! We've got the Wall to Wall Horror Movie Festival, the crazy Slash 'n Chop Song Show, and of course our old favourite, the Genocide Game! All that and more, beamed right to your homes on The Nytemare Channel! But now, a bulletin from the NYTV newsroom.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You try to reach the door, but can't. The static force from the sofa is too strong. The presenter laughs.\n\n\"Isn't it great to stay indoors and watch your favourite channel, NYTV! We'll be here to keep you company right through till midnight.\"\n\n\"Yes, Drac, the rumours from Fairhaven have been confirmed. Apparently a major Hero Convention is being held in that town as we speak. Our sources are still vague but we believe this may pose the first real threat to Nytemare Corp's operations in several years. Over to you, Drac.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You spray the sofa with the bottle", "response": "You spray some Whito onto the sofa and it begins to smoke! Years of built-up static electricity absorbed from the TV set are released in an explosion of sparks and flames! Finally it cools down, a little singed but looking much cleaner.\n\n\"Well, scary stuff there indeed. We'll certainly be bringing you the latest on this story as it continues to develop. But I'm sure the Corporation will be quite able to handle this new challenge. Stay glued to your seats, viewers, while we take a short break.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "As you reach the door, a gust of freezing wind and rain comes blasting in! The television image flickers.\n\n\"Hey, you folks down in Fairhaven better not go too far away from your nice comfortable houses, 'cos when that storm hits it's gonna blow - \"\n\nA thunderclap drowns his words, as a bolt of lightning strikes the TV aerial on top of your house. You hear the sound of shattering glass, then an impossibly loud explosion. Diving to the ground, you narrowly avoid being hit by shards of brick and burning wood. When you get up and look back, you see that your house has been completely demolished.\n\nYou are outside your formerly ordinary house, which is now a smouldering pile of rubble to the east. Clouds gather ominously in the sky overhead. Maple Drive leads north and south from here, and Post Office Park is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are walking in Post Office Park, a quaint old grassy field extending to the road in all directions. In the distance you can see the ruins of your house, a garage, some stores, the library and school, and of course the very new and modern Post Office Tower to the north. Before you, in the centre of the park, is a dingy old dribbling fountain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fountain", "response": "It's disgustingly old and dingy, and hardly even dribbling. Just looking at the stagnant water flow sends strange shivers of fear down your spine. In the fountain you see a glowing green Magic Marker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Green", "response": "It's green. A message is engraved on the side:\n\nIf lost, return to:\nSally Knight\nRoom 13\nFairhaven Public School\n\nThe Magic Marker shines with a pale green glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "The fountain is really icky and horrible. As you touch the dirty water you feel a sudden overwhelming sense of terror which makes you draw back your hand in disgust. You can hardly bring yourself to look at it again, let alone reach into it.\n\nDark clouds roll across the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the water with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the fountain. The sword's blade passes through the fountain with no visible effect.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are outside the Fairhaven Library, a worn-down old brick building with a faded billboard outside. A door leads in to the west. Beech Avenue continues north and south of here, and you can see Post Office Park to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are inside the Fairhaven library, which seems to be a refuge from another time. An electric chandelier hangs from Victorian rafters, lighting a wooden counter on which sits a computer terminal and card scanner. A stack of bookshelves is lost in deep shadow, while the main doorway opens east out to the street. The librarian sits behind his counter, reading.\n\nThe librarian jumps to his feet as you enter, and points to something you're carrying. \"Get that accursed thing out of here!\", he roars, pushing you towards the door. \"Can't you see it's a hazard to literacy?\"\n\nYou are outside the Fairhaven Library, a worn-down old brick building with a faded billboard outside. A door leads in to the west. Beech Avenue continues north and south of here, and you can see Post Office Park to the east.\n\nA cold wind blows briefly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Video", "response": "It's a remake of \"Nightmare on Elm Street Part XIII\", rented from the Video Plaza, and it's overdue. You feel strangely compelled to return it as soon as possible. The tape is surrounded by a dull red glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are on the pavement outside the Fairhaven General Store, one of the oldest shops still trading in the town. The store is open to the southwest. Beech Avenue runs off to the north, and Oak Street to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "You are in the town's old General Store. The shelves hold only a small selection of items, but the charming old-world atmosphere more than makes up for the lack of variety. The shopkeeper stands behind her counter ready to serve you.\n\nYou see an electric torch and a newspaper here.\n\nThe shopkeeper counts the change in her cash register.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shopkeeper", "response": "The shopkeeper checks her shelves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the shopkeeper about Video", "response": "The shopkeeper seems unable to see you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the torch", "response": "That would be shoplifting. You must buy the electric torch first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are in the town's old General Store. The shelves hold only a small selection of items, but the charming old-world atmosphere more than makes up for the lack of variety. The shopkeeper stands behind her counter ready to serve you.\n\nYou see an electric torch and a newspaper here.\n\nThe shopkeeper dusts the counter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are outside a small garage which sells petrol and services motor vehicles. The workshop opens to the south, and Oak Street continues east and west. To the north, Post Office Park is visible.\n\nPeople scurry indoors for shelter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are on a quiet street corner in the little town of Fairhaven.\nMaple Drive runs north from here to your house, while Oak Street runs west. A rusty old manhole (closed) is set squarely in the middle of the road.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the manhole", "response": "Good idea, but it's too rusty to move at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You can go north to Maple Drive, west to Oak Street, or northwest to the park.\n\nA stranger bumps into you, and mutters something rude.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are outside your formerly ordinary house, which is now a smouldering pile of rubble to the east. Clouds gather ominously in the sky overhead. Maple Drive leads north and south from here, and Post Office Park is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are on the pavement outside Fairhaven's public school, which runs to the northeast. Elm Street runs west of here, and Maple Drive starts to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are standing outside the very new and extremely modern Post Office Tower, a shining monument to Fairhaven's progress, standing a full fifteen stories tall. You can enter the lobby to the north, or walk into the equally famous (though much older) Post Office Park to the south. Elm Street continues east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are on the pavement outside the Nytemare Video Plaza, one of a chain of stores which has moved into Fairhaven recently. The window is full of movie posters, and a door leads in to the northwest. Beech Avenue runs off to the south, and Elm Street to the east of here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "You are inside the new Nytemare Video Plaza. The walls are lined with recent hit movies, mostly dark fantasy and thriller titles. The clerk is nowhere to be seen, but a small drop box, nearly hidden behind a life-size cardboard cutout of an action superhero, bears the words RETURN VIDEOS HERE. The door to the street opens to the southeast.\n\nBefore your eyes, the cardboard cutout comes alive, transforming into a strange creature! It seems to be part man, part machine, and all monster, wearing a black gangster suit and metallic sunglasses. A gleam of red comes from one eye, and instead of hands it has metallic claws, in which it holds an arsenal of lethal weapons and a strangely sparking video camera. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"VIDEO NASTY\".\n\nThe Whito bottle gives a pulse of yellow light.\n\nThe Sword of Virtue tingles in your hands.\n\nThe Video Nasty brandishes its weapons fearsomely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine nasty", "response": "It seems to be part man, part machine, and all monster, wearing a black gangster suit and metallic sunglasses. A gleam of red comes from one eye, and instead of hands it has metallic claws, in which it holds an arsenal of lethal weapons and a strangely sparking video camera. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\n\"Go ahead,\" suggests the Video Nasty. \"Make my day.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack nasty with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the Video Nasty. The blade bounces wildly, as if deflected by a static force field. The creature ducks, and your blow goes wide.\n\nThe Video Nasty yawns and tosses a grenade at you. \"Wanna play catch?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You spray nasty with bottle", "response": "You spray some Whito onto the Video Nasty and it begins to spark! An invisible static force field generated by the video camera collapses, exploding in flashes of red lightning. Finally the effect dies down, leaving the Video Nasty still standing. With a VERY annoyed look in its eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack nasty with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the Video Nasty. The sword's blade strikes the creature in a shower of yellow sparks.\n\nThe Video Nasty gasps at you. \"I'm hit! You hit me! Arrgghh! You'll never take me alive! I'll be back! See you in the re-runs, sucker!\" Overacting wildly, it flips open an arm panel and pushes a secret button.\n\nThe Video Nasty fades away in a blaze of yellow light!\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"NICE GOING\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Video in the slot", "response": "The video cassette slides into the slot, and you suddenly feel as if a great weight has been lifted from your shoulders. You hear a muffled clunk from the bottom of the box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You are on the pavement outside the Nytemare Video Plaza, one of a chain of stores which has moved into Fairhaven recently. The window is full of movie posters, and a door leads in to the northwest. Beech Avenue runs off to the south, and Elm Street to the east of here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are inside the new Nytemare Video Plaza. The walls are lined with recent hit movies, mostly dark fantasy and thriller titles. The clerk is nowhere to be seen, but a small drop box, nearly hidden behind a life-size cardboard cutout of an action superhero, bears the words RETURN VIDEOS HERE. The door to the street opens to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are inside the Fairhaven library, which seems to be a refuge from another time. An electric chandelier hangs from Victorian rafters, lighting a wooden counter on which sits a computer terminal and card scanner. A stack of bookshelves is lost in deep shadow, while the main doorway opens east out to the street. The librarian sits behind his counter, reading.\n\nThe librarian looks up as you enter. \"Welcome to the Hero Convention,\" he says. \"I see you've had a harder time getting here than I thought. But perhaps it is just as well. This contest is not for the faint-hearted. Now, I'll need some proof of your exploits, to see if you are qualified to begin.\" He holds out his hand expectantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spray fountain", "response": "(with the glowing spray bottle)\nYou spray some Whito onto the fountain but nothing much happens.\n\nA few drops of rain splatter on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Post Office Tower, Floor 8\nThe Fairhaven Savings & Investment Bank has a much more sober and reserved atmosphere than the rest of the Post Office Tower. Expensively-dressed Assistant Branch Managers stride around making important decisions, and ignoring you. A cash-card machine on one wall offers instant withdrawals, and the sleek, ultra-modern lift opens to the north.\n\nThere is a very strange creature in the room. It seems to be nothing more than a hat, tie and business suit floating in midair; the thing has no face or hands, yet somehow manages to move and act like a person. A briefcase, stuffed full of papers, floats at one side. Despite its apparent lack of substance, the creature manages to make you feel insignificant. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"SERIOUS FRAUD\".\n\nThe Sword of Virtue tingles in your hands.\n\nThe Serious Fraud solemnly stuffs a quantity of banknotes into its briefcase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack Fraud with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the Serious Fraud. The creature blocks the sword's motion with a wave of its wrist.\n\nThe Serious Fraud restrains a ghostly chuckle, and suggests that you return when you have enough experience to be more than a minor nuisance.\n\nThe Serious Fraud tries to arrest you for impersonating a human being.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Post Office Tower, Observation Deck\nYou are standing on the roof of the fifteen-storey Post Office Tower, with a breathtaking view of the entire town of Fairhaven. A guardrail on the edge is all that stands between you and the Post Office Park far below. High-altitude winds buffet you as you peer over. The lift doors (open) to the north are the only way down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Park", "response": "It's a long way down to the Post Office Park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rail", "response": "It looks like an ordinary guardrail to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You are in a drab and rundown schoolyard, with pavement to the southwest. Featureless concrete walls block the way north, but a classroom opens to the east. A sign on the door reads \"Room 13: S. Knight\".\n\nLightning flashes on the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Fairhaven Public School, Room 13\nYou are in a school classroom. There is a large whiteboard on the east wall, and the door opens to the west. The teacher, Miss Knight, stands beside the whiteboard, struggling vainly to teach an unruly class.\n\nThe class appears to be in a manic frenzy.\n\nThere is a very strange creature in the room. It seems to have several heads, although the exact number is hard to determine since they are all moving and talking at once. The creature also has a large and disturbing quantity of tentacles, which are busily engaged in ripping shreds off every object in the room, and each other. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"BEDLAM\".\n\nThe Sword of Virtue tingles in your hands.\n\nThe Bedlam punches itself in three eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Bedlam", "response": "It seems to have several heads, although the exact number is hard to determine since they are all moving and talking at once. The creature also has a large and disturbing quantity of tentacles, which are busily engaged in ripping shreds off every object in the room, and each other. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\nThe Bedlam performs a brief hula dance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack Bedlam with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the Bedlam. The sword's blade strikes the creature in a shower of yellow sparks.\n\nThe Bedlam staggers away from you, and freezes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Fairhaven Public School, Room 13\nYou are in a school classroom. There is a large whiteboard on the east wall, and the door opens to the west. The teacher, Miss Knight, stands beside the whiteboard, staring at her suddenly silent class.\n\nThe class is sitting unnaturally still, as if frozen.\n\nThere is a Bedlam here.\n\nThe Bedlam sits very still, eyeing you cautiously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Bedlam", "response": "The creature seems to be stunned. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\nThe Bedlam quietly rubs four of its heads with a tentacle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the whiteboard", "response": "It's covered with Miss Knight's teaching notes, written in barely visible green ink. The board shimmers with a pale green glow.\n\nThe Bedlam begins to stir again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the board", "response": "It's covered with Miss Knight's teaching notes, written in barely visible green ink. The board shimmers with a pale green glow.\n\nThe Bedlam wakes up fully, and charges back into action.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spray board", "response": "(with the glowing spray bottle)\nYou spray some Whito onto the whiteboard but nothing much happens.\n\nThe Bedlam gleefully shreds a desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "You can only go out to the west.\n\nThe Bedlam gleefully shreds a desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are in a drab and rundown schoolyard, with pavement to the southwest. Featureless concrete walls block the way north, but a classroom opens to the east. A sign on the door reads \"Room 13: S. Knight\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are standing outside the very new and extremely modern Post Office Tower, a shining monument to Fairhaven's progress, standing a full fifteen stories tall. You can enter the lobby to the north, or walk into the equally famous (though much older) Post Office Park to the south. Elm Street continues east and west.\n\nYou hear dogs howling in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Oak Street Garage, in workshop\nYou are in a small dirty workshop where the Oak Street Garage mechanics fix cars and sell motoring equipment. The workshop is empty at the moment except for one mechanic. There is a small door in the south wall marked \"Wrecking Yard\", and the workshop opens back onto Oak Street to the north.\n\nYou see an oil can here.\n\nThe mechanic tinkers with an engine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the can", "response": "It costs 4 dollars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mechanic", "response": "The mechanic tests some spark plugs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get can", "response": "That would be shoplifting. You must buy the oil can first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(Opening the workshop door)\nWrecking Yard\nThis vacant lot is presumably the Oak Street Garage wrecking yard. Strange pieces of metal which once were cars are scattered all over the weed-ridden ground in apparent chaos. One car body is newer, almost intact. The workshop door to the north is the only way back.\n\nSitting on the car body is a water valve.\n\nThere is a large, mean and hungry guard dog here.\n\nThe guard dog snarls at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the valve", "response": "It looks like some important part of the town's water supply system.\n\nThe guard dog sniffs at you and bares its teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dog", "response": "It's large, mean and very hungry.\n\nThe guard dog barks loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have a shining yellow sword, a sparkling cape (being worn), a digital watch (being worn), a pair of 3D glasses (being worn), a ballpoint pen, and a glowing spray bottle.\n\nThe guard dog growls menacingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It's a Counsellor (R) brand digital watch, with standard time display but strangely no buttons. The watch shines with a soft yellow glow.\nIt says the time is 11:57 pm.\n\nThe guard dog patrols the area.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This vacant lot is presumably the Oak Street Garage wrecking yard. Strange pieces of metal which once were cars are scattered all over the weed-ridden ground in apparent chaos. One car body is newer, almost intact. The workshop door to the north is the only way back.\n\nSitting on the car body is a water valve.\n\nThere is a large, mean and hungry guard dog here.\n\nThe guard dog growls menacingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the valve", "response": "The dog charges, barking furiously, as you try to take the valve. You back away slowly and it calms down.\n\nThe guard dog snarls at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack dog", "response": "(with the shining yellow sword)\nYou swing the shining yellow sword at the guard dog. The sword's blade passes through the guard dog with no visible effect.\n\nThe guard dog sniffs at you and bares its teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Oak Street Garage, in workshop\nYou are in a small dirty workshop where the Oak Street Garage mechanics fix cars and sell motoring equipment. The workshop is empty at the moment except for one mechanic. There is a small door in the south wall marked \"Wrecking Yard\", and the workshop opens back onto Oak Street to the north.\n\nYou see an oil can here.\n\nThe mechanic wipes his hands on a rag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are outside a small garage which sells petrol and services motor vehicles. The workshop opens to the south, and Oak Street continues east and west. To the north, Post Office Park is visible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are outside your formerly ordinary house, which is now a smouldering pile of rubble to the east. Clouds gather ominously in the sky overhead. Maple Drive leads north and south from here, and Post Office Park is to the west.\n\nA cold shiver runs down your spine for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Charred bricks and cinders are all that remains of your formerly ordinary house. Your yard is to the west.\n\nYou see a raw steak and a cash card here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine CARD", "response": "\"Fairhaven Savings and Investment Bank\nCASH CARD\nJ. Random Hero\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are outside your formerly ordinary house, which is now a smouldering pile of rubble to the east. Clouds gather ominously in the sky overhead. Maple Drive leads north and south from here, and Post Office Park is to the west.\n\nDark clouds roll across the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Oak Street Garage, in workshop\nYou are in a small dirty workshop where the Oak Street Garage mechanics fix cars and sell motoring equipment. The workshop is empty at the moment except for one mechanic. There is a small door in the south wall marked \"Wrecking Yard\", and the workshop opens back onto Oak Street to the north.\n\nYou see an oil can here.\n\nThe mechanic tests some spark plugs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This vacant lot is presumably the Oak Street Garage wrecking yard. Strange pieces of metal which once were cars are scattered all over the weed-ridden ground in apparent chaos. One car body is newer, almost intact. The workshop door to the north is the only way back.\n\nSitting on the car body is a water valve.\n\nThere is a large, mean and hungry guard dog here.\n\nThe guard dog growls menacingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the steak to the dog", "response": "The dog snaps up the steak and walks away to devour it.\n\nThe guard dog whines contentedly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the valve", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe guard dog chews on the steak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "It looks like some important part of the town's water supply system.\n\nThe guard dog chews on the steak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine valve", "response": "It looks like some important part of the town's water supply system.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are outside a small garage which sells petrol and services motor vehicles. The workshop opens to the south, and Oak Street continues east and west. To the north, Post Office Park is visible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are walking in Post Office Park, a quaint old grassy field extending to the road in all directions. In the distance you can see the ruins of your house, a garage, some stores, the library and school, and of course the very new and modern Post Office Tower to the north. Before you, in the centre of the park, is a dingy old dribbling fountain.\n\nA cold wind blows briefly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Post Office Tower, Floor 8\nThe Fairhaven Savings & Investment Bank has a much more sober and reserved atmosphere than the rest of the Post Office Tower. Expensively-dressed Assistant Branch Managers stride around making important decisions, and ignoring you. A cash-card machine on one wall offers instant withdrawals, and the sleek, ultra-modern lift opens to the north.\n\nThere is a Serious Fraud here.\n\nThe Serious Fraud sells parking space on the Brooklyn Bridge to one of the bank managers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the machine", "response": "It's a very new and modern 'FastCash' machine, with ultra simple controls. There is a slot to insert a cash card, a screen to display instructions, and a single button marked 'Withdraw $10'. It doesn't even need a PIN number, since the Fairhaven Savings & Investment Bank is such a respectable organisation that there is absolutely no chance of fraud.\n\nThe Serious Fraud sells parking space on the Brooklyn Bridge to one of the bank managers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the CARD in the machine", "response": "Done. The screen shows:\n\nJ. Random Hero\nWarning - account is low.\nYour account balance is $10.00.\n\nOdd. Your account certainly wasn't that low last time you checked.\n\nThe Serious Fraud murmurs that the Mayor is taking bribes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You withdraw", "response": "The machine beeps, and produces 10 dollars. Taken.\nThe screen shows:\n\nJ. Random Hero\nWARNING! Account is EMPTY!\nYour account balance is $0.00.\n\nThe Serious Fraud attempts to convince you that black is white.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get CARD", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe Serious Fraud whispers that everything you have just heard, including this sentence, is false.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in the Post Office Tower's sleek, ultra-modern lift car.\nBeside the doors to the south (currently open) is a sleek, futuristic keypad and display.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy can", "response": "The mechanic seems unable to see you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove glasses", "response": "As you remove the glasses, you feel a faint sense of numbness. Everything somehow looks dull and flat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy can", "response": "The mechanic thanks you, and sells you the oil can for 4 dollars. Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are on the pavement outside the Fairhaven General Store, one of the oldest shops still trading in the town. The store is open to the southwest. Beech Avenue runs off to the north, and Oak Street to the east.\n\nA stranger bumps into you, and mutters something rude.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are in the town's old General Store. The shelves hold only a small selection of items, but the charming old-world atmosphere more than makes up for the lack of variety. The shopkeeper stands behind her counter ready to serve you.\n\nYou see an electric torch and a newspaper here.\n\nThe shopkeeper counts the change in her cash register.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the torch", "response": "The shopkeeper thanks you, and sells you the electric torch for 5 dollars. Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy paper", "response": "The shopkeeper thanks you, and sells you the newspaper for 1 dollar. Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the paper", "response": "Serious Fraud Suspected In Fairhaven Bank!\n\nRumours are spreading that the Fairhaven Savings and Investment Bank is under investigation for serious fraud. Many customers are complaining that their bank balances have mysteriously run into overdraft. Bank officials are hotly denying the rumours, blaming them on mass hysteria caused by the water shortage.\n\nBedlam in School!\n\nTeachers from the Fairhaven Public School are complaining that shrinking budgets and lack of resources have turned classes into a nightmare. \"I don't know what to say,\" said the teachers' spokesperson, Sally Knight. \"I can't control my students, and it's getting worse. We need help desperately!\"\n\n'Hydrophobia' Grows As Water Shortage Worsens!\n\nFairhaven is heading into the third dry week of the longest-running water shortage in town history. The Council met today to decide urgent solutions to the problem which has their best experts baffled. \"We have no idea what's happening,\" observed the Mayor. \"All our pumping equipment seems to be breaking down for no reason. It's just plain bizarre.\"\n\nThe paper ends with a series of full-colour advertisements for the Nytemare Video Plaza.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are outside a small garage which sells petrol and services motor vehicles. The workshop opens to the south, and Oak Street continues east and west. To the north, Post Office Park is visible.\n\nA few drops of rain splatter on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oil manhole", "response": "You pour some oil onto the rusty manhole and it frees up a little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the glasses", "response": "As you put the glasses over your eyes, you feel a faint tingling sensation down your spine. Everything somehow looks sharper than before.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "You'll have to open the manhole first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the manhole", "response": "Opened.\n\nLightning flashes on the horizon.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Ladder, under the manhole\nYou are on a cramped metal ladder extending down from the manhole to darkness far below. A little light filters in from above, but you would probably want to switch the torch on before descending any further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the torch", "response": "You switch on the electric torch.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Ladder, under the manhole\nYou are on a cramped metal ladder extending down from the manhole to darkness far below. A little light filters in from above, but the electric torch in your hand is much more comforting.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You are at the base of a deep access shaft under Maple Drive and Oak Street. A cramped metal ladder leads up to a barely visible manhole far overhead, and a dark passage opens to the northwest.\n\nYou hear a quiet rumbling in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You are in a dark passage running northwest-southeast. Slimy mould grows on the walls around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mould", "response": "The mould isn't important.\n\nSomething drips onto your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "You are a junction. A dark passage leads off to the southeast, while small dark tunnels run north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are in a small dark tunnel bending sharply from north to east. The walls are clammy to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in a wide open space with a hard concrete floor. Small dark tunnels lead south and east, and a metal door marked \"Central Pump Room\" (closed) leads down between them to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in a small dark tunnel bending sharply from south to west. The walls are clammy to the touch.\n\nYou smell a dank, mouldy scent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You are in a large concrete room which seems to house pumping equipment for Fairhaven's water supply. A mass of pipes, gauges and controls fills the room. One particularly large wheel is marked \"Master Water Feed\", and it is currently turned off. A nearby pipe is open to the air, and appears to be missing a valve. The pump room door (open) leads up to the northwest.\n\nThe Hydrophobia is here. It is a huge bloated balloon of a thing, covered in translucent black skin, with a puffy face and watery, bloodshot eyes which try to focus on you with some difficulty. The creature yawns and waddles drunkenly. It is much larger than it appeared on your first encounter, and seems to fill the entire pump room. A bright red glow surrounds it.\n\nThe Sword of Virtue tingles in your hands.\n\nThe Hydrophobia dribbles in your general direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a shining yellow sword, a sparkling cape (being worn), a digital watch (being worn), a ballpoint pen, a glowing spray bottle, a water valve, a cash card, an oil can, an electric torch (providing light), a newspaper, and a pair of 3D glasses (being worn).\n\nThe Hydrophobia dribbles in your general direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack Hydrophobia with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the Hydrophobia. The sword's blade strikes the creature in a shower of yellow sparks!\n\nThe Hydrophobia looks annoyed. \"I oughta clobber you for that, 'Ero.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack Hydrophobia with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the Hydrophobia. The sword's blade strikes the creature in a shower of yellow sparks.\n\n\"Now look wot you've done!\" grumbles the Hydrophobia, shrinking. \"You an' your flamin' 'Ero stuff. I'm gonna tell the boss everythin', and he ain't gonna like it, not one little bit. You'll see.\"\n\nThe Hydrophobia fades away in a blaze of yellow light!\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"GOT 'EM\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the valve on the pipe", "response": "After some fiddling, you manage to fit the valve onto the pipe.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are in a large concrete room which seems to house pumping equipment for Fairhaven's water supply. A mass of pipes, gauges and controls fills the room. One particularly large wheel is marked \"Master Water Feed\", and it is currently turned off. A nearby pipe now has its valve attached and appears to be in good working order. The pump room door (open) leads up to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn wheel", "response": "You turn the wheel, and suddenly the room is filled with the sound of water flowing through pipes. Looks like you've solved the town's water shortage!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You are in a wide open space with a hard concrete floor. Small dark tunnels lead south and east, and a metal door marked \"Central Pump Room\" (open) leads down between them to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are in a small dark tunnel bending sharply from south to west. The walls are clammy to the touch.\n\nA low squeaking echoes from the darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are a junction. A dark passage leads off to the southeast, while small dark tunnels run north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are in a small dark tunnel bending sharply from north to east. The walls are clammy to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in a wide open space with a hard concrete floor. Small dark tunnels lead south and east, and a metal door marked \"Central Pump Room\" (open) leads down between them to the southeast.\n\nThere is a faint hiss from overhead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are a junction. A dark passage leads off to the southeast, while small dark tunnels run north and west.\n\nYou smell a dank, mouldy scent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You are in a dark passage running northwest-southeast. Slimy mould grows on the walls around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You are at the base of a deep access shaft under Maple Drive and Oak Street. A cramped metal ladder leads up to a barely visible manhole far overhead, and a dark passage opens to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "Ladder, under the manhole\nYou are on a cramped metal ladder extending down from the manhole to darkness far below. A little light filters in from above, but the electric torch in your hand is much more comforting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You are on a quiet street corner in the little town of Fairhaven.\nMaple Drive runs north from here to your house, while Oak Street runs west. A well-oiled manhole (open) is set squarely in the middle of the road.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the torch", "response": "You switch off the electric torch.\n\nYou hear dogs howling in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are walking in Post Office Park, a quaint old grassy field extending to the road in all directions. In the distance you can see the ruins of your house, a garage, some stores, the library and school, and of course the very new and modern Post Office Tower to the north. Before you, in the centre of the park, is a clear bubbling fountain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fountain", "response": "It's sparkling clear and bubbling, giving you a sense of wonder and innocence as you look at it. In the fountain you see a glowing green Magic Marker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You are in a drab and rundown schoolyard, with pavement to the southwest. Featureless concrete walls block the way north, but a classroom opens to the east. A sign on the door reads \"Room 13: S. Knight\".\n\nA cold shiver runs down your spine for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Fairhaven Public School, Room 13\nYou are in a school classroom. There is a large whiteboard on the east wall, and the door opens to the west. The teacher, Miss Knight, stands beside the whiteboard, struggling vainly to teach an unruly class.\n\nThe class appears to be in a manic frenzy.\n\nThere is a Bedlam here.\n\nThe Bedlam performs a brief hula dance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Green", "response": "Miss Knight seems unable to see you.\n\nThe Bedlam performs a brief hula dance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine green Marker", "response": "It's green. A message is engraved on the side:\n\nIf lost, return to:\nSally Knight\nRoom 13\nFairhaven Public School\n\nThe Magic Marker shines with a pale green glow.\n\nThe Bedlam takes a running jump at itself, and misses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the board", "response": "It's covered with Miss Knight's teaching notes, written in barely visible green ink. The board shimmers with a pale green glow.\n\nThe Bedlam gleefully shreds a desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the glasses", "response": "As you remove the glasses, you feel a faint sense of numbness. Everything somehow looks dull and flat.\n\nThe Bedlam vanishes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Fairhaven Public School, Room 13\nYou are in a school classroom. There is a large whiteboard on the east wall, and the door opens to the west. The teacher, Miss Knight, stands beside the whiteboard, struggling vainly to teach an unruly class.\n\nThe class appears to be in a manic frenzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Marker to Knight", "response": "Which marker do you mean, the yellow Magic Marker, or the green Magic Marker?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Green", "response": "At the sight of the green Magic Marker, the class suddenly bursts into complete mayhem, distracting the teacher's attention and forcing you away from her. They calm down a little when you retreat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the glasses", "response": "As you put the glasses over your eyes, you feel a faint tingling sensation down your spine. Everything somehow looks sharper than before.\n\nThe Bedlam appears before you.\n\nThe Bedlam performs a brief hula dance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack Bedlam with Sword", "response": "You swing the shining yellow sword at the Bedlam. The sword's blade strikes the creature in a shower of yellow sparks.\n\nThe Bedlam staggers away from you, and freezes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Fairhaven Public School, Room 13\nYou are in a school classroom. There is a large whiteboard on the east wall, and the door opens to the west. The teacher, Miss Knight, stands beside the whiteboard, staring at her suddenly silent class.\n\nThe class is sitting unnaturally still, as if frozen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the green to Knight", "response": "Miss Knight takes the green Magic Marker with a sudden flash of recognition. \"Thank you!\" she exclaims. \"I was wondering where that had got to.\" As she turns back to the whiteboard and begins writing on it, you almost think you see a green light fill the room for a moment. The class calms down noticably.\n\n\"Oh, before I forget,\" she adds, \"I was told to give you this.\" She hands you a report card. Taken.\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"NICE GOING\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the CARD", "response": "Which card do you mean, the cash card, or the report card?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Report", "response": "J. Random Hero\nAchievement Report\n\nVideo Nasty x 1\n\nTotal monsters slain = 3", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the glasses", "response": "As you put the glasses over your eyes, you feel a faint tingling sensation down your spine. Everything somehow looks sharper than before.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "You can only go out to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are in a drab and rundown schoolyard, with pavement to the southwest. Featureless concrete walls block the way north, but a classroom opens to the east. A sign on the door reads \"Room 13: S. Knight\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are on the pavement outside the Nytemare Video Plaza, one of a chain of stores which has moved into Fairhaven recently. The window is full of movie posters, and a door leads in to the northwest. Beech Avenue runs off to the south, and Elm Street to the east of here.\n\nDark clouds roll across the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are inside the Fairhaven library, which seems to be a refuge from another time. An electric chandelier hangs from Victorian rafters, lighting a wooden counter on which sits a computer terminal and card scanner. A stack of bookshelves is lost in deep shadow, while the main doorway opens east out to the street. The librarian sits behind his counter, reading.\n\nThe librarian looks up expectantly as you approach, as if waiting for something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the CARD to librarian", "response": "Which card do you mean, the cash card, or the report card?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Report", "response": "The librarian takes the card and examines it closely. \"That's very impressive,\" he sighs, \"but I'm afraid it's not quite good enough.\nCome back when you've got some more experience.\" He hands the card back regretfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are outside the Fairhaven Library, a worn-down old brick building with a faded billboard outside. A door leads in to the west. Beech Avenue continues north and south of here, and you can see Post Office Park to the east.\n\nA cold wind blows briefly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Post Office Tower, Floor 8\nThe Fairhaven Savings & Investment Bank has a much more sober and reserved atmosphere than the rest of the Post Office Tower. Expensively-dressed Assistant Branch Managers stride around making important decisions, and ignoring you. A cash-card machine on one wall offers instant withdrawals, and the sleek, ultra-modern lift opens to the north.\n\nThere is a Serious Fraud here.\n\nThe Serious Fraud murmurs that the Mayor is taking bribes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack fraud", "response": "(with the shining yellow sword)\nYou swing the shining yellow sword at the Serious Fraud. The creature ducks, and your blow goes wide.\n\nThe Serious Fraud sues you for libel, slander, and wilful misguided heroism.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack fraud", "response": "(with the shining yellow sword)\nYou swing the shining yellow sword at the Serious Fraud. The creature ducks, and your blow goes wide.\n\nThe Serious Fraud hands you a High Court summons, dated yesterday.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack fraud", "response": "(with the shining yellow sword)\nYou swing the shining yellow sword at the Serious Fraud. The creature ducks, and your blow goes wide.\n\nThe Serious Fraud indignantly writes an angry letter to the Mayor.\n\nOvercome by the force of the creature's logic, you stumble from the room.\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"DONT QUIT\".\n\nYou are in the Post Office Tower's sleek, ultra-modern lift car.\nBeside the doors to the south (currently open) is a sleek, futuristic keypad and display.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Post Office Tower, Floor 8\nThe Fairhaven Savings & Investment Bank has a much more sober and reserved atmosphere than the rest of the Post Office Tower. Expensively-dressed Assistant Branch Managers stride around making important decisions, and ignoring you. A cash-card machine on one wall offers instant withdrawals, and the sleek, ultra-modern lift opens to the north.\n\nThere is a Serious Fraud here.\n\nThe Serious Fraud solemnly stuffs a quantity of banknotes into its briefcase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack fraud", "response": "(with the shining yellow sword)\nYou swing the shining yellow sword at the Serious Fraud. The sword's blade strikes the creature in a shower of yellow sparks!\n\nThe Serious Fraud takes a cautious step backwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack fraud", "response": "(with the shining yellow sword)\nYou swing the shining yellow sword at the Serious Fraud. The sword's blade strikes the creature in a shower of yellow sparks!\n\nThe Serious Fraud anxiously checks its suit for rips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack fraud", "response": "(with the shining yellow sword)\nYou swing the shining yellow sword at the Serious Fraud.\n\nA cold wind suddenly whips through the room, unravelling the creature's clothing stitch by stitch. As the serious business suit falls into a heap on the floor, the air inside it begins to glow with an ominous red tinge. It moulds itself into a looming, shapeless black shadow which fills the entire room. Two blazing red eyes stare down at you.\n\n\"You think you can defeat ME?\" screams the Serious Fraud's voice, somewhat hysterically. \"You don't know NOTHING, Hero, do ya? I'm not going down alone. I got friends in high places, I got connections. You're dead, man! You're dead! You're...\"\n\nThere is a sudden explosion from the lift shaft, and then silence. The shadow dissipates in a soft glow of yellow light which reluctantly fades.\n\nThe watch beeps and displays: \"ONE DOWN\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the report card", "response": "J. Random Hero\nAchievement Report\n\nVideo Nasty x 1\nFraud, Serious x 1\n\nTotal monsters slain = 4", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "As you step out of the lift car, there is an explosion from inside and the doors slam shut! You narrowly avoid being crushed!\n\nPost Office Tower, Observation Deck\nYou are standing on the roof of the fifteen-storey Post Office Tower, with a breathtaking view of the entire town of Fairhaven. A guardrail on the edge is all that stands between you and the Post Office Park far below. High-altitude winds buffet you as you peer over. The lift doors (closed) to the north are the only way down.\n\nDark thunderclouds swirl menacingly overhead, and rain splatters loudly on the roof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The lift doors are closed.\n\nThe storm seems to be growing more intense every second. Lightning arcs skywards all around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nHuge gusts of wind and rain are making it difficult to walk upright. The roof seems to be sloping downwards toward the guardrail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the guardrail", "response": "It looks like an ordinary guardrail to me.\n\nA sudden bolt of lightning smashes into the guardrail, burning a jagged hole in it. Hurricane winds hurl you off balance, pushing you closer to the edge. Hail and sleet beat down on your back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Uh... is that a good idea? But before you can change your mind, a freak gust of wind catches you and sends you tumbling over the side of the roof...\n\nYou're falling in mid-air, high above the sleepy little town of Fairhaven. The air is clear, the view is stunning, and you feel light, boyant and suprisingly peaceful, given that you're about to be splattered on the pavement in a few seconds.\n\nThe suddenness of your descent takes your breath away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yell", "response": "Your throat is a bit sore now.\n\nYour cape begins to billow out in the slipstream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYou seem to be falling less swiftly now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYou drift gently down towards the Post Office Park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYour cape puffs out like a parachute as you touch down in the middle of the Post Office Park. As soon as your feet are on the ground, it folds away again. Hmm, wonder what else this Cape of Many Things does?\n\nYou are walking in Post Office Park, a quaint old grassy field extending to the road in all directions. In the distance you can see the ruins of your house, a garage, some stores, the library and school, and of course the very new and modern Post Office Tower to the north. Before you, in the centre of the park, is a clear bubbling fountain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Cape", "response": "It's a cape made of some thin transparent material that feels strangely light yet tougher than steel. It sparkles with an iridescent yellow glow, and hugs your body like a glove, but your hands feel free and unencumbered. The cape seems to attract any objects you're holding, so they remain within easy reach at all times.\n\nPeople scurry indoors for shelter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are outside the Fairhaven Library, a worn-down old brick building with a faded billboard outside. A door leads in to the west. Beech Avenue continues north and south of here, and you can see Post Office Park to the east.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Afterlife", "Religious", "Time Travel" ]

[ "adaptive hints", "alternative endings", "built-in hints", "cover art", "devil", "ethics", "fate", "IF Competition 1996", "IFComp Game", "moral choice", "moral dilemma", "multiple endings", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 1996", "XYZZY Best Story" ]

[ 6, 16, 18, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Fleeting glimpses of faces half-remembered in the gloom. Screams, the sound of squealing tires, a sudden thump, a sickening crunch and a violent jolt followed by a sense of weightlessness and disassociation. The last thing you remember is an overwhelming feeling of guilt and regret, forcing its way through the chaos that surrounds you and then there is...\n\nYour sight fails you. For that matter, you don't know if your eyes are opened or closed. Concepts like time and place have no meaning here. Your mind attempts to impose something, some order, some structure, upon the space in which you exist, and fails. There is only the void. For all you know, that is all there ever was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "There is only Nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake up", "response": "There is only Nothing.\n\nNo, wait. There is ... something, moving in the darkness. It dances at the edge of your new-found vision, teasing you. You turn your head toward the shape, when your neck suddenly gives out and your head lolls backward. Blinding pain explodes from the back of your head.\n\nYour eyes flutter open...\n\n\n\nA small room, with circular walls and a floor of pale white stone. There are no apparent exits, other than a small slit of a window off to one side.\n\nAn angelic-looking young man looks upon you with concern.\n\nAlong the far wall opposite the window hangs a tapestry.\n\nThe young man smiles.\n\n\"Ah, you are all right. You had me worried, my friend,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "A face almost harsh in its perfection, with crystal-clear blue eyes half-covered by a flowing mane of gold. He wears a gown of white, about his neck is a silver pendant, and in his left hand he carries the long graceful curve of an ivory torch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "From what you can tell, you're as you've always been.\n\nThe young man's smile suddenly fades and he sighs.\n\n\"There is much we must speak of my friend,\" he says. He turns and points at the tapestry. \"And there are choices which must be made.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about yourself", "response": "\"Ah, yes ... you have no memory of yourself.\" The young man pauses a moment. \"You, lost traveler, are Timothy Hunter, recently a mortal, now dead. Because of your actions in life and what has just happened at the moment of your death, the fate of your soul is in doubt.\"\n\n\"But here, I have not even introduced myself. Forgive me,\" he says, bowing with a flourish. \"I am ... Morningstar.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss man", "response": "That would be pointless.\n\nMorningstar turns to the window and looks out it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Approaching the opening, you realize it is hardly more than a slit in the wall. Peering through it, you see the night sky, brilliant with innumerable stars. Straining your vision, you can make out the landscape, far below, covered with trees. You are in a tower of some sort, in the center of a forest that goes on for as far as the eye can see.\n\nRunning your hand against the wall you realize that it is not the stone you took it for. It is far too smooth, and feels warm to the touch. For a moment, the confused image of your hands running over piano keys runs through your mind. And then it hits you: you've felt this before. It's ivory. An ivory tower...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about death", "response": "\"What is there to say that you already do not know, Timothy? You are dead, and your soul is in jeopardy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask man about Morningstar", "response": "\"I am no one of consequence. All you need know is that I am your friend and guide, and I shall do all in my power to help you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the soul", "response": "\"What is there to say that you already do not know, Timothy? You are dead, and your soul is in jeopardy.\"\n\nHe stares at you for a short while, his eyes shining in the near-darkness, then he seems to reach a decision and takes you by the hand.\n\n\"Come Timothy,\" he says, leading you toward the tapestry. \"There is much I must show you, and I fear there will be much you do not wish to see.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tapestry", "response": "A large, intricately woven tapestry which depicts three tableaus on three different panels.\n\nYou stare at the swirling colors of the wall-hanging as Morningstar places the torch in his right hand while still clinging to your own, and then places his left upon the tapestry. His hand, pale as the ivory of the torch he carries, caresses the first panel, running up and down its length.\n\n\"Come Timothy, your destiny, past, present, and future, awaits.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the first panel", "response": "Upon the first panel is a scene of an elderly woman in a hospital, with a doctor looking sadly down upon her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the second panel", "response": "Upon the second panel is a scene of a middle-aged woman lying in a bed, with what appears to be her soul halfway in and half-way out of her body.\n\nThe rumbling shakes you from your contemplation of the tapestry. At first, you can feel it more than hear it, but as the vibration of everything around you increases, so does the volume of the noise behind it. The room, the tapestry, the young man at your side, everything begins to sway and shake at the behest of the ferocious sound. You try to wrest your hands from Morningstar's and clamp them against your skull, anything to blot out the terrible song which fills your ears and shakes your bones, but he holds fast.\n\nThen, with a sudden forward rush, a universe of multi-colored threads leaps from the hanging, flooding your vision. They wrap themselves about you in a spinning dance that, combined with the noise, threatens to overwhelm your senses. Just when you think the din will drive you mad, there is a flash of light, again the sense of weightlessness, as if you have been separated from the rest of the world, and then, somehow, you are somewhere else...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Another room of white walls, but where the walls of the Ivory Tower seemed to contain a vitality, these walls are cold and dead. A patina of sickness and decay stains everything and the room reeks of hospital disinfectant. This place is clean, yes, but a manmade clean, a futile attempt to wash away the odor of sickness and death which will inevitably return.\n\nAn elderly woman lies here in a hospital bed. A doctor looking down upon her.\n\nMorningstar is here.\n\n\"Mercy Hospital,\" he says, \"where you left her, Timothy, for all those months. Where you left her to forget her.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the woman", "response": "The old woman lies still in the bed, her eyes closed. Her grey hair falls in long locks over her face and from her arm protrudes the clear line of an IV-tube, leading to a machine which stands at the bedside. There is something vaguely familiar about her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Morningstar about the woman", "response": "\"Alicia, your mother, Timothy. She'd been ill for a very long time, and, I suppose, you could not deal with it any longer. You'd taken care of her for so long, and it seemed as though she'd never bow out gracefully. So, you sent her here. Out of sight, out of mind. You could finally get on with your life.\"\n\nMorningstar sighs deeply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss mother", "response": "She is motionless. At first, you thing she is asleep, but then you see that the doctor does not move either. It would appear that time has somehow stopped.\n\n\"Except, it didn't work out that way, did it Timothy? When the doctor called you, told you that she had died, crying for you, it all came flooding back. The guilt at leaving her, at abandoning her finally overtook you. And then the final insult of not being there when she died.\" He shakes his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the doctor", "response": "A middle aged man, in the obvious uniform of a doctor, looks down upon your mother. He stands frozen with a look of pity on his face. About his neck is a silver pendant.\n\n\"You were working with a major client at the time, just about to leave for an important meeting, when you got the call. You'd been working so hard, so caught up in your own life, forgetting her had been so easy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pendant", "response": "A pendant in the shape of a silver sunburst hanging from a silver chain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Morningstar about the pendant", "response": "Morningstar looks at you with incomprehension for a moment and then looks from his own pendant to the other. He stares at you.\n\n\"You can see this?\" he whispers.\n\nYou nod dumbly. He stands in shock for a moment, then seems to recover his wits.\n\"It is nothing, Timothy. A symbol, perhaps, nothing more.\"\n\nMorningstar looks at the figure on the bed, then up to you.\n\n\"Come,\" he says, taking you by the hand again. \"There is more to see...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the woman", "response": "You brush the hair lightly from the woman's face. Her eyes are closed, but for some reason you know her eyes are the most beautiful jade green. Her expression is locked in one of grimacing pain. You know her, no, that's wrong ... you SHOULD know her.\n\nMorningstar sees the look of shock on your face. He sighs.\n\n\"So you have forgotten even her ... her whom you promised you never would forget.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Morningstar about the woman", "response": "Morningstar pointedly ignores you.\n\n\"Yes, Timothy ... murder. Oh you may have other names for it: mercy-killing, euthanasia. There have always been words to soothe the conscience. But you know them for what they are. Excuses, rationalizations. You've always known you murdered her. Your Sarah, your beloved wife. But perhaps not so beloved when she became a burden?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake woman", "response": "There is no response. In fact, you notice for the first time that nothing moves. Time has stopped.\n\n\"She'd been ill for so long, hadn't she?\" He runs the back of his hand delicately along her cheek. \"It seemed as if it never would end, the doctor's visits, the second opinions, all of them useless. And she just kept clinging to this vague existence she called life, refusing to bow out gracefully ... just like your mother. Oh how like her she was!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Morningstar", "response": "And what would that accomplish?\n\n\"And so, going financially bankrupt from the bills and emotionally bankrupt from the constant strain of taking care of her, you decided to take the path of least resistance.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shut up", "response": "Morningstar has better things to do.\n\n\"It was easy. You remember that much, do you not? The pills to cloud her mind, the whispering of nonsense in her ear to calm her, and then the pillow. It was as simple as snuffing out a candle, was it not? But the words you placed upon the act afterward did nothing to release you from the guilt of what you'd done.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the woman", "response": "Keep your hands to yourself.\n\n\"Come,\" he says, taking you by the hand once again. \"The story does not end here...\"\n\nA darkened street, a snapshot of a city held frozen for a brief instant. Streetlamps line the walk you stand upon, lighting the night with their blinding shafts of radiance. In the surrounding gloom, you can make out dim figures frozen mid-step.\n\nThe sudden halt in the flow of time has caught a car in midair, about to strike a young woman who has stumbled into its path.\n\nMorningstar is here.\n\n\"But it does end here,\" he says, \"where you died.\" He surveys the scene. \"Ignominious, is it not?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the woman", "response": "The poor thing is barely an adult, her face still scarred by the rigors of adolescence. Her eyes are turned upward into the lights of the car bearing down upon her, just realizing its existence. One hand has dropped before her, trying to stop her fall, while her other is outstretched back. Looking behind her, you catch a glimpse of a figure standing on the sidewalk ... a figure that looks as if it's pushed her.\n\n\"You were trying to run away from it all, the memories, the guilt. You'd been running away for so long that it seemed second nature.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the figure", "response": "A young man with raven black hair. He has apparently just shoved the young woman into the street, his silver pendant flying backwards as he stumbles back to view the result of his actions.\n\n\"It affected everything. First you lost her, then you lost your faith in life and yourself, you lost your dignity, your self-respect. Then your job.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pendant", "response": "A pendant in the shape of a silver sunburst hanging from a silver chain.\n\n\"And so it all came to this night, when you went driving for no reason at all.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Morningstar about the pendant", "response": "\"I have already told you, mortal. It is nothing you need concern yourself with.\"\n\n\"And it seemed that perhaps you weren't content to leave this world alone. You had to drag an innocent along with you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Morningstar about the figure", "response": "Morningstar looks to the figure, then back to you. He shrugs. \"What of him?\"\n\nMorningstar turns to you, a mask of mixed pity and disgust.\n\n\"And so this is your legacy.\" He smirks, then sighs deeply. \"Look ye on your works and despair.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at car", "response": "Looking more closely, you recognize it as an old Dodge, almost falling apart. It has apparently struck the curb, which is what caused it to go flying. A streetlamp's beam strikes the windshield squarely. cutting off your view of the interior. Shifting over and squinting, you can make out a figure in the driver's seat. Wait a minute, it can't be ... it's ... it's ...\n\n...you.\n\nAgain the rumbling and the threads throw you into their heaving embrace, and leave you gasping on another strange and distant shore...\n\nThe Ivory Tower, where you started this strange adventure, now lies in ruins. Its walls lie scorched about you, the roof rent to the open sky. The stars, in their impassive brilliance, illuminate the devastation below. Over the Tower's remains you catch glimpses of the fires below, trees smoldering in the darkness.\n\nThe Tapestry seems to have survived the Tower's destruction intact.\n\nMorningstar is here.\n\nHe stands motionless, a statue in white ice, his eyes glowing in the near-darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stars", "response": "Whatever apocalypse destroyed the Tower has rent the ceiling from the room. Above, you see innumerable stars in strange constellations.\n\nAn ethereal chuckle erupts from nowhere and everywhere. A low, female voice follows it, the hint of the laughter still in its voice.\n\n\"And so you would leave him here, Phosphoros? With the tale half-finished, as is your wont?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the third panel", "response": "The third panel is a scene of a young woman, hardly a child, stumbling into a road, arms flailing, eyes open in shock at the sight of your car barreling down upon her.\n\nMorningstar seems as startled as you, but quickly recovers. He smiles and speaks to the air.\n\n\"You find me an inadequate storyteller, Parcae?\" he says, bowing deeply. \"What more would you have him know?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fires", "response": "The woods that blanket the landscape for miles around are apparently on fire. Plumes of smoke fill the sky as the fires slowly spread outward from the Tower.\n\nThe voice speaks again, but this time all frivolity from it is lost. You catch an odd echo in it, as if it were multiple voices speaking in chorus.\n\n\"You know that is not Our way, do not think to mock Us.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "Morningstar motions to you to be still and silent.\n\n\"I, Lady of the Skein, you think I would mock you?\" Morningstar places his hand to his heart, all innocence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "Morningstar motions to you to be still and silent.\n\n\"There is many a thing We would put past you not, Son of the Morning, but We come here not to speak of you...\"\n\nA gust of wind startles you and you turn to see a shining filament suspended in midair. Its light falters for a brief moment, rendering it immaterial, and then begins to solidify.\n\nA shimmering pattern of webs begins to weave itself into being from the central thread, its beams crisscrossing in increasingly complex shapes. At its apex, a brighter light begins to shine: a small, slender spider, also made of light, with an hourglass symbol etched in golden radiance upon its back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the webs", "response": "The spider flickers at it moves down the web, one moment solid, the next, insubstantial.\n\nThe arachnid slowly makes its way down the web, its delicate legs running over the threads. As it descends, its light begins to pulse, masking it from view, then reappearing. Their rate increases as it continues its course, its shape becoming more and more indistinct. One moment the legs look like tiny human arms, hands grasping at the threads, the next, immaterial shafts of light. As the spider touches the ground, there is a blinding flash, and a human figure stands in its place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Parcae", "response": "The figure is made of an ever-shifting pattern of golden light, its face constantly changing.\n\nThe figure's face shimmers, revealing a middle-aged woman.\n\n\"Greetings, traveler,\" she says in the same odd voice, bowing slightly. She turns her attention to Morningstar. \"To you as well, King of Tyre.\" Morningstar returns her greeting with a nod of his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine her", "response": "The figure is made of an ever-shifting pattern of golden light, its face constantly changing.\n\nThe figure's shimmering reveals the visage of an old hag.\n\n\"Know, mortal, that we are Fate, the Parcae, alloters of Man's destiny. I am Atropos, the inflexible Cutter, who did sever the thread of your life at the moment of your death.\" The figure shimmers again, revealing a very young-looking woman. She smiles at you shyly.\n\n\"I am Clotho, the Spinner, who spun your destiny thread at the moment of your birth.\" Another shimmer and the middle-aged woman appears again.\n\n\"Lachesis,\" she says, \"the Alloter. It was I who did measure the length of your thread, and with it, your life.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her about the thread", "response": "Clotho appears, looking pained. \"Please, you must listen to Us.\"\n\nAtropos reappears.\n\n\"The Lightbringer speaks truthfully when he says you are in a precarious position, Timothy, but not for the reasons he gives.\" You see Morningstar scowl at this. \"Your destiny is finished mortal, its threads played out upon the skein of Fate, but powers beyond your comprehension have thrown this foregone conclusion into doubt. The offer the Angel of Light has given you denies the rules of Moira.\" Lachesis appears and watches your confused expression with interest, then turns her attention to Morningstar.\n\n\"I have not had time to tell the mortal my offer,\" he growls through gritted teeth. \"You have not even given me the chance.\" Lachesis grins broadly.\n\n\"Then do so, Son of the Dawn,\" she offers graciously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nMorningstar turns to you and looks deep into your eyes.\n\n\"Timothy Hunter, you have seen the pain and suffering your actions have wrought. You have seen the anguish you have caused in those around you, and you have seen how the guilt of what you have done has eaten away at you. Knowing this, I offer you something which very few are given, yet many hope for ... a second chance. You have the opportunity to go back and change the past. This I offer to you before you leave the world you know forever.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Parcae about the rules of Moira", "response": "\"You must keep quiet, Timothy, please!\" says Clotho.\n\nAtropos frowns.\n\n\"But know mortal, that defying your Moira, your fate, is not without its price. Perhaps Morningstar is willing to pay it, but are you? The boundaries of your Moira have we clearly marked, and it is not proper that you exceed them. Your destiny has been shaped by your choices, and this fate you have seen is the destiny you have chosen. But again, your choices are everything, and it shall be yours to decide if you shall follow Morningstar's path or mine.\"\n\n\"But Morningstar is correct in that this will be your only opportunity to change your Moira, Timothy,\" says Lachesis. \"If you refuse this, there will never be another chance.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"But this, still, is not the whole tale, Timothy,\" says Clotho. \"While I do concur with Atropos that your choices should remain the same, however difficult they are, your choices now can be more than a mere replaying of events as you know them. Perhaps this second chance will allow you to examine the pain and guilt you have felt, and, if you have strength enough, perhaps to face them. But, as always, the choice is yours to make.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe rumbling returns suddenly and without warning and with it the threads. You flail madly, trying to find your way. The voice of the Parcae cuts through the sound, echoing around you. \"Look to the Tapestry, Timothy. With it, you shall weave your Destiny.\" The threads heave a final time...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask him about the choice", "response": "An Interactive Destiny\n\nAn entry in the 2nd Annual Interactive-Fiction Competition\n\nStandard interpreter 1.0\nInterpreter 2 Version N / Library serial number 951024\nThe Prologue can be skipped by using the \"begin\" command.\nPlease use the \"help\" command before beginning.\n\nThe Ivory Tower, where you started this strange adventure, now lies in ruins. Its walls lie scorched about you, the roof rent to the open sky. The stars, in their impassive brilliance, illuminate the devastation below. Over the Tower's remains you catch glimpses of the fires below, trees smoldering in the darkness.\n\nThe Tapestry seems to have survived the Tower's destruction intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Tapestry", "response": "Despite the devastation about you, it remains unchanged, its three panels mocking reminders of your recently remembered past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the first panel", "response": "Suddenly the rumbling returns, and the threads throw you into their heaving embrace. After a time they leave you gasping on another strange and distant shore...\n\nThe living room of your small home lies in disarray, as usual. Between work and your mother's condition, you haven't had much time to think about house cleaning. To the west is your bedroom; the doorway to the north leads to the driveway. The workroom lies to the south.\n\nOff to one side lies the old fireplace, its soot rolling out onto the dirty carpet.\n\nA strange new addition to the room is the small tapestry hanging on the eastern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Tapestry", "response": "The tapestry's single panel depicts an old woman in a long flowing gown. In one hand, she holds a long thread which she prepares to cut with the large pair of scissors she holds in the other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fireplace", "response": "The chimney being totally clogged with soot, you haven't used it in ages. You've been so busy at work lately, you haven't given much thought to it. You haven't given much thought to anything...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the soot", "response": "It's spilled all over the floor, making a mess of the carpet. You've really got to clean this place up sometime.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the soot", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the woman about the thread", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the carpet", "response": "It's a total mess. You've been thinking about replacing it lately, but just haven't had the time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The bedroom isn't much cleaner than the den, with piles of clothes covering most of the floor. You wish you had the time to even try to make the place look like a human being lives here, but you just never seem to. To the east is the den and a small bathroom lies to the south.\n\nThe bed is unmade, as usual.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clothes", "response": "They're everywhere. It'd take forever just to sort them, much less thinking of washing them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the clothes", "response": "(first taking the piles of clothes)\nThey're everywhere. It'd take forever just to sort them, much less thinking of washing them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "From what you can tell, you're as you've always been.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Off to one side lies the old fireplace, its soot rolling out onto the dirty carpet.\n\nA strange new addition to the room is the small tapestry hanging on the eastern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You've only recently converted this spare room to a workroom to try and play catch-up in the evenings and on the weekends. \"Converted\" isn't exactly the right word, since all you did was stick a small table in it. The way back to the den lies to the north.\n\nYour work papers lie in disarray beside the telephone.\n\nAlso on the desk is a small appointment/address book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "The unorganized heap covers most of the table, some of it even extending over the edge, threatening to fall at any moment. You've had such a backlog of things to do that it's become harder and harder just to keep up and not fall even further behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the papers", "response": "The papers cover a variety of cases. You have no idea where to begin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the telephone", "response": "A standard push-button telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "Flipping through the address book you see that you've only had time to write in two well-used numbers: Mike Stevens at work and Dr. Hughes at Mercy Hospital, the doctor who's handling your mother's care. The only information of any importance in the appointment section appears to be a notice reading: \"Thompson account MUST BE CLOSED BY THIS MONDAY.\" It's written in red ink and underlined five times.\n\nThe Thompson account? What on Earth is that? You try and remember, but for the life of you you can't recall ever writing down this notice. And today's Sunday...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Mike Stevens", "response": "The phone rings for a moment, then Mike's secretary answers.\n\n\"Hello, Foley Consultants, can I help you?\"\n\n\"Can I speak with Mr. Stevens please?\"\n\n\"Sure Tim, hold on a second.\" You hear the click of the line being switched over, then Mike picks up.\n\n\"Yeah Tim? What can I do for you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mike about Thompson", "response": "Mike sounds shocked.\n\n\"The THOMPSON account? You mean the charity bit?\"\n\nYou have no idea what he's talking about and tell him so.\n\n\"The charity bit! Come on, you couldn't have FORGOTTEN that? It was your freakin' idea! The whole problem with the firm's bad press last year about the orphanage foreclosure? So we were going to do a few cases for charity ... people who couldn't normally afford us...\"\n\n\"...and I offered to take the Thompson account.\"\n\n\"'xactly, Tim, where's your head BEEN, man?\"\n\n\"Oh my God, I totally forgot about it.\"\n\nYou hear Mike sigh and then a shuffle of papers.\n\n\"Hmm ... let's see. Standard blahblahblahblah, it doesn't look more than a two or three day thing. No real need to wo...\" He cuts off. \"MONDAY Tim? It's due MONDAY?! Are you crazy? Have you even STARTED it?!\"\n\n\"I've ... I've had a lot on my mind, Mike.\"\n\n\"Damn, Tim, we all know that, but ... if you couldn't handle it you should have said so! You're the only one who knows anything about the account, and you've got all the important papers there!\"\n\n\"But, Mike, I've got ... I've got stuff I have to do here.\"\n\n\"Yeah, like the Thompson account! Look Tim, I'm not going to tell you what to do, and I know that your job's not in the balance here; you've been doing too good a job for too long for one little screw up to ruin you, especially under these circumstances. But the Thompson's are totally depending on the firm here. Don't you realize the reason we took the case? They'll lose everything unless YOU can find a loophole that'll at least delay the foreclosure for a while.\"\n\n\"But couldn't someone ... could you...?\"\n\n\"Look Tim, I can't, I've got so much work here that I couldn't even look at the account if I wanted to. Not to mention the fact that all the important stuff is THERE. No Tim, it's going to be you or no one.\" He pauses. \"Look, I've got to go. Call again if you need help with something, but the ball's in your court now.\" He hangs up.\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the doctor", "response": "The phone rings a moment and then a female voice answers the phone.\n\n\"Mercy Hospital, how may I help you?\"\n\n\"Dr. Hughes please.\"\n\n\"May I ask who's calling?\"\n\n\"Timothy Hunter.\"\n\n\"One moment, please.\" You're put on hold. After a moment, the line picks up again.\n\n\"Yes Tim? How can I help you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the doctor about the mom", "response": "Dr. Hughes laughs.\n\n\"For the millionth time, Tim, she's fine. Seriously, I'm starting to think you don't have any faith in us. What is this, the second week in a row you've called at least once a day? You've got to stop worrying. Your mother's condition is stable and there's been no sign that would lead us to believe we should expect any change. If there were, we'd call you.\" He pauses. \"Look Tim, I'm busy here. Just trust me and relax, OK?\"\n\nAmid your protests, he gently hangs up.\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the papers", "response": "There are far too many papers to lug around with you, better leave them here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the papers", "response": "(first taking the work papers)\nThere are far too many papers to lug around with you, better leave them here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the papers", "response": "The papers cover a variety of cases. You have no idea where to begin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You consult the papers about Thompson", "response": "You spread the papers out and try to get them organized. You vaguely remember that the Thompson account deals with a small family business that might be going under. Apparently they don't have enough money to hire someone to handle the backlog of taxes that they've been accumulating and can't handle it themselves. The papers are broken up into several sections: the back records, this year's intake, and the forms which need to be filled out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Mike", "response": "The phone rings for a moment, then Mike's secretary answers.\n\n\"Hello, Foley Consultants, can I help you?\"\n\n\"Can I speak with Mr. Stevens please?\"\n\n\"Sure Tim, hold on a second.\" You hear the click of the line being switched over, then Mike picks up.\n\n\"Yeah, Tim?\" Mike says, \"What do ya need?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You've only recently converted this spare room to a workroom to try and play catch-up in the evenings and on the weekends. \"Converted\" isn't exactly the right word, since all you did was stick a small table in it. The way back to the den lies to the north.\n\nYour work papers lie in disarray beside the telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The living room of your small home lies in disarray, as usual. Between work and your mother's condition, you haven't had much time to think about house cleaning. To the west is your bedroom; the doorway to the north leads to the driveway. The workroom lies to the south.\n\nOff to one side lies the old fireplace, its soot rolling out onto the dirty carpet.\n\nA strange new addition to the room is the small tapestry hanging on the eastern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "It's a beautiful spring day, the sun is shining and a soft breeze blows. Taking in the idyllic scene, it's easy to forget all the pressures on you; to forget, if for the briefest of moments, your mother's illness and the work you have to do. The front door back into the house lies to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You consider a stroll around the neighborhood, but think better of it. You have more important things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "If you really want to...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the taxi", "response": "The taxi service...now what was that number again...?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Mike", "response": "The phone rings for a moment, then Mike's secretary answers.\n\n\"Hello, Foley Consultants, can I help you?\"\n\n\"Can I speak with Mr. Stevens please?\"\n\n\"Sure Tim, hold on a second.\" You hear the click of the line being switched over, then Mike picks up.\n\n\"Yeah, Tim?\" Mike says, \"What do ya need?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mike about the taxi", "response": "\"So come on, Tim ... what do you want?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hang up", "response": "You hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "You shoved it in here when you convered this into a work room. It's overflowing with your workpapers, almost completely covering the telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up yourself in the phone book", "response": "(in the work papers)\nYou discover nothing of interest in the work papers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You consult the book about Thompson", "response": "You discover nothing of interest in the address/appointment book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "Flipping through the address book you see that you've only had time to write in two well-used numbers: Mike Stevens at work and Dr. Hughes at Mercy Hospital, the doctor who's handling your mother's care. The only information of any importance in the appointment section appears to be a notice reading: \"Thompson account MUST BE CLOSED BY THIS MONDAY.\" It's written in red ink and underlined five times.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the back records", "response": "The records go back quite a few years. You start reading through them, trying to get an impression of what needs to be done. The Thompson's have obviously been trying to keep on top of the paperwork, but they just didn't have the expertise. Although there's a lot, you realize that Mike was right, it's a routine job.\n\nSeveral hours later and almost finished with the back-paperwork, you realize that an entire year is missing from the records. You can't finish the forms without it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mike about the records", "response": "You explain about the missing records from the papers you have for the Thompson account.\n\n\"Hmm ... ok, hold on, let me see if they're up here.\" You hear Mike put down the phone and then a few minutes of silence. Suddenly, he's back on the line. \"Yeah Tim, got 'em right here. I don't know how they got muffed up like that. Here, let me give you the numbers.\" He proceeds to help you update the records you need.\n\n\"Thanks Mike, you're a lifesaver.\"\n\n\"No prob, and good luck on the account!\"\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the intake", "response": "You begin scanning on the records for the current year, on which the Thompsons have done no work at all. You sigh deeply and get to work.\n\nIt seems to take forever, the numbers just don't want to work out. Finally, after scanning your work for errors a third time, you decide you've got it done as well as you'll ever get it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the forms", "response": "With the completed records in hand, you begin filling out the forms. By this point, you're so sick of numbers you find it harder and harder not to give up. As you press on, you become worried. You've got to stay awake, aware, because any mistakes at this point could be disastrous...\n\nFour hours later, you're finished. Your hands are cramped from all the writing, your mind spinning from the columns of data, but it's done. You separate the forms from the rest of papers with a sigh of relief.\n\nSuddenly you stop short. You forgot about the signatures! You frantically begin scanning the bottom of the forms, praying you won't find that they have to be signed with a witness...\n\n...and you find that they do. What the hell are you going to do? It's Sunday! How on Earth are you going to get in touch with a notary public this late on a Sunday afternoon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the doctor", "response": "The phone rings a moment and then a female voice answers the phone.\n\n\"Mercy Hospital, how may I help you?\"\n\n\"Dr. Hughes please.\"\n\n\"May I ask who's calling?\"\n\n\"Timothy Hunter.\"\n\n\"One moment, please.\" You're put on hold. After a moment, the line picks up again.\n\n\"Look Tim, I told you I'm very busy here. Is there something you need to ask?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the doctor about the mom", "response": "The laughter is gone from Dr. Hughes's voice.\n\n\"Look Tim, we've been through this too many times. She's fine. I have more important things to deal with right now than getting that through that thick skull of yours. Goodbye.\"\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mike about the notary", "response": "You frantically tell Mike about the signatures you need and that you have no idea how to get in touch with the notary public.\n\n\"God-damnit Tim ... I'd totally forgotten. And it's Sunday, shit...\"\n\n\"What'r we gonna do, Mike?\"\n\nSilence.\n\n\"No, wait a minute! I got it! Look, I've got a friend down a City Hall, owes me a couple of favors. I bet I can get the public down in his office long enough to get the stuff signed. Listen, I'll call up the Thompsons, and my friend. I'll tell 'em to meet you down there in one hour. You got that? Anything over that and we're screwed.\"\n\n\"Got it, Mike. Oh, and thanks again. You really saved me.\"\n\n\"No prob, just remember you owe me one.\"\n\n\"Sure,\" you say, \"I'll see them down there in an hour.\"\n\nYou hang up the phone.\n\nAs suddenly as you place the receiver back in the cradle, the phone rings. You hastily lift the receiver to your ear.\n\n\"Hello?\"\n\n\"Yes, hello, may I please speak to Mr. Timothy Hunter?\"\n\n\"This is he.\"\n\n\"Mr. Hunter? I'm Doctor Feiner, an associate of Doctor Hughes?\"\n\n\"Yes, Doctor Feiner, what can I do for you?\"\n\n\"Well, Mr. Hunter, it's ... it's about your mother.\" A sick certainty overcomes you.\n\n\"She's dying,\" you whisper.\n\n\"Yes, Mr. Hunter, and I'm afraid she won't be lasting much longer. Not more than an hour...\"\n\n\"Oh God... I'll, I'll...\"\n\n\"Whatever you do, Mr. Hunter, please do it quickly. There's not much time.\"\n\nWith trembling hands, you put the phone back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Hospital", "response": "The phone rings a moment and then a female voice answers the phone.\n\n\"Mercy Hospital, how may I help you?\"\n\n\"Dr. Hughes please.\" There's a slight pause.\n\n\"I'm terribly sorry, but Dr. Hughes is currently tending to an emergency. Would you like to leave a message?\"\n\nYou don't have to ask whose emergency it is. \"No, thank you\".\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Mike", "response": "The phone rings for a moment, then Mike's secretary answers.\n\n\"Hello, Foley Consultants, can I help you?\"\n\n\"Can I speak with Mr. Stevens please?\"\n\n\"Sure Tim, hold on a second.\" You hear the click of the line being switched over, then Mike picks up.\n\n\"Look Timmy-boy, I'm making contacts and half-way outta the office. What do you want?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Mike about the mom", "response": "\"Look, Mike, it's about my mother.\"\n\n\"What about her, Tim?\"\n\n\"Well, she's ... you know she's not been well, and...\"\n\n\"What happened Tim? She's all right, isn't she?\" You can hear the concern in Mike's voice.\n\n\"Well, yes, but it's ... it's...\"\n\nMike sighs. \"Look, Tim, I don't know what's up here, but are you trying to tell me that you're NOT going to be able to the Thompson account because of your mother?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Mike sighs. \"Well Tim, it's your decision. Good luck, I hope she'll be ok.\"\n\n\"Thanks Mike, and I'm sorry but ... I've got to do this.\"\n\n\"Like I said, it's your decision, man. I'll see you later.\"\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "It's hard to believe this will be the bed on which Sarah will spend all that time, dying. WAS the bed where she SPENT all that time ... this is so confusing. It's in a shambles, the sheets hidden under one of the numerous piles of clothing scattered about the room.\n\nOn the bed you see your wallet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wallet", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wallet", "response": "You peek inside your wallet and see some money and a small, white business card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the card", "response": "It's a business card from a local taxi agency complete with their telephone number.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the taxi", "response": "The phone rings several times, and then the line picks up.\n\n\"Hello, BK Taxi, can I help you?\"\n\nYou quickly explain that you need a taxi sent around to your house as soon as possible.\n\n\"Certainly sir, it'll be there as soon as possible.\"\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou notice a cab slowly making its way up the street, its driver peering at house numbers. Apparently seeing yours, the cab quickly pulls into your driveway and the driver gives the horn three quick blasts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cab", "response": "You're sitting in the back seat of an old and dirty taxi cab. The seat springs squeak rustily beneath you, litter covers the floor and the windows are covered with grime.\n\nIn the front seat, a cabbie sits waiting impatiently.\n\n\"Where ya wanna go, mac?\" he asks as you slip inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the cabbie about Hospital", "response": "\"You got it, mac\" says the cabbie as he hits starts the meter and pulls out of the driveway...\n\nThe trip seems interminable, the cabbie babbling throughout it. Talk of nothing: the weather, the ball game on television last night. You hardly hear him. All you can think about is your mother in that vile smelling white room, breathing her last. You close your eyes and hope you'll get there in time.\n\nThe sunlight flickers over your closed eyelids, making a shadow-dance beneath, and you pause, lost for a moment in their flickering patterns. Let her be ok ... please, just let her be ok.\n\nThe sudden stop in front of Mercy rudely breaks your reverie.\n\n\"That'll be 15 bucks,\" says the cabbie, hitting the meter's flag.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" you say, handing him your last fifteen dollars, \"I don't have enough for a tip.\"\n\nThe cabbie looks at you for a moment, and then slowly smiles.\n\n\"Forget it, buddy. You look like you could use a break.\" You profusely thank him as you open the taxi's door and rush into the building...\n\nYou rush past the front desk, running for the elevators and slip between the doors just as they're closing. You frantically stab at the buttons, and then slump against the back wall. First, second, third, fourth, hurry god-damn you hurry ... please ... please ... fourth, come on ... come on you ... fifth! The doors slide back and you rush down the corridor, almost slipping on the tiles and finally come to a screeching halt at the door to your mother's room...\n\nLike a horribly cycling nightmare, you find yourself back in this white room stinking of disinfectant. How many times have you been here before, in your mind, replaying this possible scene of being here with your mother when she died? And now, it looks as if perhaps you'll get your second chance after all...\n\nHere, unmoving on the hospital bed, lies your mother.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mother", "response": "She lies still in the bed, her eyes closed. Her grey hair falls in long locks over her face and from her arm protrudes the clear line of an IV-tube, leading to a machine which stands at the bedside.\n\nFor a brief, horrible moment, you think that you're too late ... she's gone. But then, you see her chest slowly lift, then lower. She's breathing ... she's alive.\n\nHer eyes flutter for a moment, then slowly open. Her pupils unfocused, she looks around the room, finally catching sight of you. She pauses, then smiles.\n\"Oh Timmy...\" she says. You heart catches in your throat as you hear how weak her voice is; barely a whisper, hardly stronger than a soft breeze. You must have flinched, because her brow furrows and she looks at you, concerned. \"What's wrong...?\"\n\nWrong! Everything, everything's wrong. You're dying and I don't know what to do, you're leaving and I don't know how to say goodbye...\n\n\"Nothing, Mama.\" You slowly approach the bed and grasp her hand. It's cold, and her skin is almost translucent, revealing her tiny bones beneath. She's so fragile and so helpless. And she was such a vibrant woman, so full of life ... just like Sarah.\n\nSarah. The thought makes you pause. Why? Why did this happen? They were both so wonderful, so caring. They didn't deserve this. She had so many years ahead of her, so much to live for.\n\nShe smiles again. \"Oh. That's good. You know I worry...\" she pauses, catching her breath. \"You know I worry so much about you...\"\n\nYou stroke her hand, biting your lip to stop from crying. \"Yeah, yeah I know.\"\n\nShe lifts her head to look up at you, and suddenly you can see a little bit of a glint in her eye, a hint at the vibrance that she was so known for. She peers at you. \"Why ... why aren't you at work? Aren't you always busy at...\" The rest is lost in a wheeze as she sags back into her pillow.\n\n\"Don't worry, Mom. It's fine. I just thought ... I, I just wanted to visit you.\"\n\nShe smiles. \"Well, that's ok, but you've got to take...\" She suddenly stops.\n\n\"Mom? Mama? Can you hear me? Are you all...\" Oh no please ... please ...\n\nHer jaw goes slack, then she blinks once or twice. \"Oh, oh Timmy ... I think ... I think it's time...\"\n\nYou begin babbling, not even realizing what you're saying. \"No, no please. No! No, you're fine, everything's fine, you'll be ok. Please, please! You're fine!\" Hands grasp your shoulders and begin pulling you backwards, you can vaguely hear Doctor Hughes's voice telling you that there's nothing you can do, that it's her time, but you don't listen to him. You can't. You struggle forwards, trying to get closer to the bed. \"Please ... please, you're all right, aren't you? Tell me you're all right!\"\n\nShe looks up to you serenely, seemingly unaware of your panic. \"Shhh. It'll be ok, Timmy. Everything will be ok.\" She pauses again, then closes her eyes, and whispers \"I love you Timmy...\"\n\nAnd then she's gone. You can feel it, she's gone...the room's empty now. And then you're falling, clutching her cold form against you and crying, lost and alone.\n\nYou don't know how long you've been lying there crying when the hand touches you gently on the shoulder. You look up, about to angrily berate Dr. Hughes for telling you that she was all right when she wasn't, when you see that it's not the doctor at all...\n\n\"Well done, Timothy,\" says Morningstar. \"You have changed your path, and found a way to be here for your mother when she needed you. Leave her be now, she goes to a better place.\" He gently helps you get to your feet.\n\nHe sighs. \"But this is only the first step on my path, Timothy. There are dangers which still lie ahead. But fear not. You have begun my path, and you shall not leave it until it is complete. I shall be here to guide you, as you need me.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace. They leave you, gasping, back in the Tower...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Tapestry", "response": "The Ivory Tower, where you started this strange adventure, now lies in ruins. Its walls lie scorched about you, the roof rent to the open sky. The stars, in their impassive brilliance, illuminate the devastation below. Over the Tower's remains you catch glimpses of the fires below, trees smoldering in the darkness.\n\nThe Tapestry seems to have survived the Tower's destruction intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Tapestry", "response": "Despite the devastation about you, it remains unchanged, its three panels mocking reminders of your recently remembered past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the first panel", "response": "You are finished there Timothy, go elsewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the first panel", "response": "The first panel is a scene of your mother in the hospital, a doctor looking sadly down upon her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch second panel", "response": "Suddenly the rumbling returns, and the threads throw you into their heaving embrace. After a time they leave you gasping on another strange and distant shore...\n\nThe living room of your small home has changed little since your bachelor days, although Sarah's being here has altered it in some small ways. She keeps saying how the place needs more of \"a woman's touch,\" but for all her talk, her work kept her too busy to do much, and now ... well, she can't do much at all. To the south lies your office, and to the west is the bedroom. The doorway to the north leads outside to the driveway.\n\nOff to one side, built into the wall, is a small fireplace.\n\nA strange new addition to the room is the small tapestry hanging on the eastern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fireplace", "response": "You remember the innumerable winter nights you and Sarah sat curled up in front of it as you gazed into the fire. God, when was the last time you did that? It's so hard to remember a time before her being bedridden.\n\nOn the mantel you notice a small snapshot in a frame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine snapshot", "response": "It's a photograph of you and Sarah out on the lake. She's got her arms wrapped around your neck while the two of you grin like maniacs at the camera from the little boat you're in. You remember when it was taken. Five seconds later, the boat capsized and you and she laughed so hard about it you nearly drowned. God, it's been at least a year since last you were up there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Tapestry", "response": "The tapestry's single panel depicts a middle-aged woman in a long flowing gown. In one hand she holds a slender black rod, which she holds up to a long thread which she holds in the other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "From what you can tell, you're as you've always been.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Your bedroom has been one of the few areas where Sarah's influence has been at work. You felt the presence of her long after she had gone, and a few months after her death put it back the way it had been. A door to the east leads back to the den and to the south is the bathroom.\n\nSomehow, in this strange world of the past, Sarah still lives. She's lying, half asleep, in bed.\n\nBeside the bed is a small endtable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Sarah", "response": "Your slowly-returning memories do little justice to her. You'd almost forgotten how achingly beautiful she was ... is. God, this is so confusing. The illness she's battling has taken its toll, but with her resting like that, it's almost possible to believe she'll be ok.\n\nBeside her on the bed, unused, is a large pillow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pillow", "response": "A large, white pillow. Apparently Sarah doesn't need this one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pillow", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine endtable", "response": "A small endtable that used to hold Sarah's endless supply of medicines. None of them did any good, though. Some may have eased the pain she's going through, but the doctors have told you again and again there's no cure.\n\nBuilt into the endtable is a small drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open drawer", "response": "Sarah suddenly becomes animated.\n\n\"Timothy, please ... don't do that, ok? For me? Just don't open it, ok?\" She seems so worried. You nod and she relaxes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sarah about herself", "response": "Sarah stirs as you approach. She smiles faintly.\n\n\"Hi honey. I'm feeling ok, I guess. I'm just having trouble getting to sleep. It's just really hard to go on sometimes.\" She pauses, takes your hand and looks at you, concerned. \"Are you all right?\" she asks. You nod, and she smiles again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her about drawer", "response": "\"Please Timothy,\" she begs. \"Please, just humor me...?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sarah about the future", "response": "Sarah looks at you, confused. She yawns. Poor thing, better not tax her too much.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sarah about the illness", "response": "She opens her eyes and shrugs.\n\n\"It comes and goes. Some days I feel better than others, but...\" she pauses. \"I'm ok, I guess.\" She sees the concern in your eyes. \"Now don't you worry about me,\" she says, smiling. \"I'll be just fine.\"\n\nShe closes her eyes again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "Your slowly-returning memories do little justice to her. You'd almost forgotten how achingly beautiful she was ... is. God, this is so confusing. The illness she's battling has taken its toll, but with her resting like that, it's almost possible to believe she'll be ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kiss her", "response": "Sarah grins and tweaks your nose. \"I love you.\"\n\n\"I love you too.\" you whisper back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This small bathroom lies to the south of your bedroom. Ever since Sarah fell ill, it's been a storehouse of false hopes. Every miracle the doctors said might have helped, every drug that might have eased her pain has been kept here. And each and every one did nothing.\n\nOver the sink is a small, mirrored medicine cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cabinet", "response": "As you approach the cabinet, you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror. God, is that really you? You haven't slept well in weeks and your pale, haggard reflection looks like a stranger to you.\n\nThe cabinet has a hinged door which is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "You open the medicine cabinet, revealing a small bottle of pills.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pills", "response": "The majority of Sarah's supply of drugs is gone. The doctors have pretty much given up by this point, as nothing they've tried has been of any use. All that remains is this solitary bottle of pills Sarah uses to help her sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the pills to Sarah", "response": "Sarah looks at the pills. \"That's a good idea, honey, but could you get me a glass of water too?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This small bathroom lies to the south of your bedroom. Ever since Sarah fell ill, it's been a storehouse of false hopes. Every miracle the doctors said might have helped, every drug that might have eased her pain has been kept here. And each and every one did nothing.\n\nOver the sink is a small, mirrored medicine cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glass", "response": "A small, empty drinking glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at sink", "response": "An ordinary sink with an ordinary tap. The tap is currently off.\n\nOn the edge of the sink is a small drinking glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the glass", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tap", "response": "Water begins flowing from the tap into the sink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the glass", "response": "You carefully fill the glass with water and then shut off the tap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off tap", "response": "The tap's already off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Your bedroom has been one of the few areas where Sarah's influence has been at work. You felt the presence of her long after she had gone, and a few months after her death put it back the way it had been. A door to the east leads back to the den and to the south is the bathroom.\n\nSomehow, in this strange world of the past, Sarah still lives. She's lying, half asleep, in bed.\n\nBeside the bed is a small endtable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the glass to Sarah", "response": "Sarah looks up at you and smiles.\n\n\"Aww ... how sweet, my knight in shining armor come to take me to dreamland?\" You help her up and she swallows the pills with a sip of water. She takes hold of your hand. You see her lower lip trembling slightly. \"Thank you Timmy,\" she whispers, \"for everything.\"\n\nShe lies back down and closes her eyes, but she still has trouble falling asleep. God, you wish she could sleep forever, away from the sickness and the pain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Sarah becomes severely agitated this time.\n\n\"Please, please ... don't ... please.\" You can't understand what about the drawer has gotten her so worked up. To keep her calm, you agree not to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give pills to Sarah", "response": "You already gave Sarah the pills.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The living room of your small home has changed little since your bachelor days, although Sarah's being here has altered it in some small ways. She keeps saying how the place needs more of \"a woman's touch,\" but for all her talk, her work kept her too busy to do much, and now ... well, she can't do much at all. To the south lies your office, and to the west is the bedroom. The doorway to the north leads outside to the driveway.\n\nOff to one side, built into the wall, is a small fireplace.\n\nA strange new addition to the room is the small tapestry hanging on the eastern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You've had a place to do work for years, but only recently have you used it enough to actually call it an office. Even at that, it's not much of one, with your desk as the only furniture. The door to the north leads into the living room.\n\nThe remainder of your work papers lie on your desk, next to the telephone.\n\nBuilt into your desk is a small desk drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "You open the desk drawer, revealing an address book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the address book", "response": "You just recently got this address book and for the most part, it's empty. There are a few numbers of family and friends, and a few work numbers. The most important one you notice as you scan through the book is Sarah's doctor, Dr. Albero at Mercy Hospital.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Albero", "response": "The phone rings a moment and then a female voice answers the phone.\n\n\"Mercy Hospital, how may I help you?\"\n\n\"Dr. Albero please.\"\n\n\"May I ask who's calling?\"\n\n\"Timothy Hunter.\"\n\n\"One moment, please.\" You're put on hold. After a moment, the line picks up again.\n\n\"Yes Tim? How can I help you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Albero about Sarah", "response": "\"No change in her condition? I'm not surprised, Tim. We've been through this before and I've told you again and again: there's nothing we can do for her now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Albero about the cancer", "response": "\"Look Tim, I've very busy here. Is there something you wanted?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.\n\nDr. Albero's voice turns angry. \"I know you're under a lot of stress here, Tim, but this is inexcusable.\" He hangs up.\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "These papers are the remainder for you work for this week. You've been working on a couple of different cases for the firm, mostly taking care of backlog paperwork. Mind-numbing stuff to be sure, but at least it's the kind you can do at home. The last case left is for, of all places, Mercy Hospital.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the budget", "response": "You flip through the project papers and find the budget proposal for the experimental research project. Looking at it, everything seems to be in order, but then something odd catches your eye. The funding request is exceedingly large, but then again, that's expected for so important a project. The oddity comes out in the net results. There's a huge difference between what they're spending on equipment and the like and what's being given to the good doctor for costs. Checking further, you find that he in fact has cut out a good portion of the subjects for the test, no reason given. And yet the money for those subjects is still figured in the budget. Where the hell did the money go?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Albero about the budget", "response": "Dr. Albero remains silent as you point out the differences in his project's budget and doesn't answer when you ask about what happened to the money for the additional subjects. Without warning, he begins shouting at you.\n\n\"Bastard,\" he hisses. \"What the hell is this?! I'm handling the project as I see fit. Who the hell are you to question what I'm doing with the funding?! Who told you to do this, tell me!\"\n\nYou don't answer.\n\n\"Damn you! Why are you doing this?! What the hell do you want?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Albero about Sarah", "response": "Dr. Albero is silent for a moment.\n\n\"What the hell does Sarah have to do with the project's budget?\" he asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Albero about the treatment", "response": "\"So it's to be blackmail, is it? You want Sarah on that list. God-damnit, I never expected this of you, Tim.\" He pauses, thinking. \"Fine!\" he says, \"I'll pull something off. Bring her down here to sign the release forms and she'll be in. And in return, you tell no one about what you know, agreed?\"\n\n\"Agreed, and no placebos.\"\n\n\"Fine, fine, but I warn you Tim, no doublecrossing, or you'll regret it. Accidents have a way of happening in experiments like this.\" He hangs up.\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Sarah about the treatment", "response": "Sarah sits up as you approach. She sees how excited you are.\n\n\"What is it, Tim?\" Excitedly, you tell her about the program at Mercy Hospital and how Dr. Albero has agreed to let her on the subject list as one of the ones who will really receive the treatment. You omit how you got him to agree to this.\n\nSarah's reaction surprises you. Rather than being happy, she seems sad.\n\n\"Really? A possible cure. I never thought of that.\" She shakes her head. \"No, Timmy, I don't think I could go through that. Not another false hope. You said yourself it's experimental, they don't even know how it would affect me.\" She seems to reach a decision. \"No Timmy, thank you, but it's too late for me.\"\n\nYou sigh. You wish there was some way you could convince her that life was worth living.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the photo to Sarah", "response": "\"Oh Timmy. We had so much fun up there, didn't we? 'The Sweet Audrina.'\" She laughs. God, we we almost drowned, didn't we?\" You laugh with her for a moment, then you both fall silent. She takes your hand. \"We had some pretty good times, didn't we? Tell me a story, Timmy.\" she says, \"tell me about the lake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Sarah about the lake", "response": "You tell Sarah the story, embellishing what really happened. That always made her laugh, the way you used to exaggerate everything until it became bigger than life. She smiles, remembering.\n\n\"Oh, we had so much fun, didn't we?\" She yawns, then pats your hand. \"I think I've had enough excitement for one day, I'm going to take a nap, ok?\" You nod, and tuck her in as her breathing becomes slow and regular.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "You promised Sarah you wouldn't. Why is she so upset by what's in there?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the Doctor", "response": "Dr. Albero's already agreed to let Sarah in the program. Better leave him be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na snapshot\nan address book\na small drinking glass\na small bottle of pills\na large pillow", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "It's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Your bedroom has been one of the few areas where Sarah's influence has been at work. You felt the presence of her long after she had gone, and a few months after her death put it back the way it had been. A door to the east leads back to the den and to the south is the bathroom.\n\nSarah lies sleeping on the bed.\n\nBeside the bed is a small endtable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "The pills you gave her have finally set in and she's sleeping peacefully. If only she could be like that always.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie on the bed", "response": "You don't want to disturb Sarah. Anyway, you're not tired and you have far too much to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss sarah", "response": "You gently kiss her on her forehead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake sarah", "response": "Sarah stirs in her sleep and opens her eyes.\n\n\"What is it Timmy?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sarah about the program", "response": "\"I know Tim, you told me about it.\"\n\nSarah looks at you a moment, smiles, and then closes her eyes. After a moment, her steady breathing tells you she's fallen back asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sarah about drawer", "response": "Sarah stirs in her sleep and opens her eyes.\n\n\"What is it Timmy?\" she asks.\n\n\"Please Timothy,\" she begs. \"Please, just humor me...?\"\n\nSarah looks at you a moment, smiles, and then closes her eyes. After a moment, her steady breathing tells you she's fallen back asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The driveway you stand in is somewhat useless, as neither you nor Sarah own a car. Still, it's nice to get out of the house for a moment. The gloom that seems to have settled over the house since Sarah's falling ill is lessened slightly here. You can almost fool yourself into thinking she's well again. The entrance to the house lies to the south.\n\nYou can see today's newspaper here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "Nothing new ... a riot at the downtown picket lines yesterday, national tension over the budget settlements, yet another war breaking out somewhere abroad... You've lost track of the world outside for a long time now. The whole thing seems like some far-away dream.\n\nYou're about to fold the paper back up when a familiar name catches your eye...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "You haven't been into work in weeks because you wanted to stay here with Sarah, so you've been working at home. You've been throwing yourself into it a lot lately, maybe to stave off your increasing feeling of helplessness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fireplace", "response": "You remember the innumerable winter nights you and Sarah sat curled up in front of it as you gazed into the fire. God, when was the last time you did that? It's so hard to remember a time before her being bedridden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Your bedroom has been one of the few areas where Sarah's influence has been at work. You felt the presence of her long after she had gone, and a few months after her death put it back the way it had been. A door to the east leads back to the den and to the south is the bathroom.\n\nSarah lies sleeping on the bed.\n\nBeside the bed is a small endtable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This small bathroom lies to the south of your bedroom. Ever since Sarah fell ill, it's been a storehouse of false hopes. Every miracle the doctors said might have helped, every drug that might have eased her pain has been kept here. And each and every one did nothing.\n\nOver the sink is a small, mirrored medicine cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cabinet", "response": "As you approach the cabinet, you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror. God, is that really you? You haven't slept well in weeks and your pale, haggard reflection looks like a stranger to you.\n\nThe cabinet has a hinged door which is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\ntoday's newspaper\na snapshot\nan address book\na small drinking glass\na small bottle of pills\na large pillow", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the newspaper to Sarah", "response": "But you've already done that.\n\nSarah looks at you a moment, smiles, and then closes her eyes. After a moment, her steady breathing tells you she's fallen back asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Sarah about Albero", "response": "Sarah looks at you, confused. She yawns. Poor thing, better not tax her too much.\n\nSarah looks at you a moment, smiles, and then closes her eyes. After a moment, her steady breathing tells you she's fallen back asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sarah about the drawer", "response": "\"Please Timothy,\" she begs. \"Please, just humor me...?\"\n\nSarah looks at you a moment, smiles, and then closes her eyes. After a moment, her steady breathing tells you she's fallen back asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You're sitting in the back seat of an old and dirty taxi cab. The seat springs squeak rustily beneath you, litter covers the floor and the windows are covered with grime.\n\nIn the front seat, a cabbie sits waiting impatiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cabbie", "response": "A non-descript man who seems almost as old and decrepit as the car he drives. He drums the steering wheel in an angry rhythm, obviously impatient at having to wait.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the cabbie about Hospital", "response": "\"You got it, mac\" says the cabbie as he hits starts the meter and pulls out of the driveway...\n\nThe trip seems interminable, the cabbie babbling throughout it. Talk of nothing: the weather, the ball game on television last night. You hardly hear him. All you can think about is your mother in that vile smelling white room, breathing her last. You close your eyes and hope you'll get there in time.\n\nThe sunlight flickers over your closed eyelids, making a shadow-dance beneath, and you pause, lost for a moment in their flickering patterns. Let her be ok ... please, just let her be ok.\n\nThe sudden stop in front of Mercy rudely breaks your reverie.\n\n\"That'll be 15 bucks,\" says the cabbie, hitting the meter's flag.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" you say, handing him your last fifteen dollars, \"I don't have enough for a tip.\"\n\nThe cabbie looks at you for a moment, and then slowly smiles.\n\n\"Forget it, buddy. You look like you could use a break.\" You profusely thank him as you open the taxi's door and rush into the building...\n\nYou rush past the front desk, running for the elevators and slip between the doors just as they're closing. You frantically stab at the buttons, and then slump against the back wall. First, second, third, fourth, hurry god-damn you hurry ... please ... please ... fourth, come on ... come on you ... fifth! The doors slide back and you rush down the corridor, almost slipping on the tiles and finally come to a screeching halt at the door to your mother's room...\n\nLike a horribly cycling nightmare, you find yourself back in this white room stinking of disinfectant. How many times have you been here before, in your mind, replaying this possible scene of being here with your mother when she died? And now, it looks as if perhaps you'll get your second chance after all...\n\nHere, unmoving on the hospital bed, lies your mother.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mother", "response": "She lies still in the bed, her eyes closed. Her grey hair falls in long locks over her face and from her arm protrudes the clear line of an IV-tube, leading to a machine which stands at the bedside.\n\nFor a brief, horrible moment, you think that you're too late ... she's gone. But then, you see her chest slowly lift, then lower. She's breathing ... she's alive.\n\nHer eyes flutter for a moment, then slowly open. Her pupils unfocused, she looks around the room, finally catching sight of you. She pauses, then smiles.\n\"Oh Timmy...\" she says. You heart catches in your throat as you hear how weak her voice is; barely a whisper, hardly stronger than a soft breeze. You must have flinched, because her brow furrows and she looks at you, concerned. \"What's wrong...?\"\n\nWrong! Everything, everything's wrong. You're dying and I don't know what to do, you're leaving and I don't know how to say goodbye...\n\n\"Nothing, Mama.\" You slowly approach the bed and grasp her hand. It's cold, and her skin is almost translucent, revealing her tiny bones beneath. She's so fragile and so helpless. And she was such a vibrant woman, so full of life ... just like Sarah.\n\nSarah. The thought makes you pause. Why? Why did this happen? They were both so wonderful, so caring. They didn't deserve this. She had so many years ahead of her, so much to live for.\n\nShe smiles again. \"Oh. That's good. You know I worry...\" she pauses, catching her breath. \"You know I worry so much about you...\"\n\nYou stroke her hand, biting your lip to stop from crying. \"Yeah, yeah I know.\"\n\nShe lifts her head to look up at you, and suddenly you can see a little bit of a glint in her eye, a hint at the vibrance that she was so known for. She peers at you. \"Why ... why aren't you at work? Aren't you always busy at...\" The rest is lost in a wheeze as she sags back into her pillow.\n\n\"Don't worry, Mom. It's fine. I just thought ... I, I just wanted to visit you.\"\n\nShe smiles. \"Well, that's ok, but you've got to take...\" She suddenly stops.\n\n\"Mom? Mama? Can you hear me? Are you all...\" Oh no please ... please ...\n\nHer jaw goes slack, then she blinks once or twice. \"Oh, oh Timmy ... I think ... I think it's time...\"\n\nYou begin babbling, not even realizing what you're saying. \"No, no please. No! No, you're fine, everything's fine, you'll be ok. Please, please! You're fine!\" Hands grasp your shoulders and begin pulling you backwards, you can vaguely hear Doctor Hughes's voice telling you that there's nothing you can do, that it's her time, but you don't listen to him. You can't. You struggle forwards, trying to get closer to the bed. \"Please ... please, you're all right, aren't you? Tell me you're all right!\"\n\nShe looks up to you serenely, seemingly unaware of your panic. \"Shhh. It'll be ok, Timmy. Everything will be ok.\" She pauses again, then closes her eyes, and whispers \"I love you Timmy...\"\n\nAnd then she's gone. You can feel it, she's gone...the room's empty now. And then you're falling, clutching her cold form against you and crying, lost and alone.\n\nYou don't know how long you've been lying there crying when the hand touches you gently on the shoulder. You look up, about to angrily berate Dr. Hughes for telling you that she was all right when she wasn't, when you see that it's not the doctor at all...\n\n\"Well done, Timothy,\" says Morningstar. \"You have changed your path, and found a way to be here for your mother when she needed you. Leave her be now, she goes to a better place.\" He gently helps you get to your feet.\n\nHe sighs. \"But this is only the first step on my path, Timothy. There are dangers which still lie ahead. But fear not. You have begun my path, and you shall not leave it until it is complete. I shall be here to guide you, as you need me.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace. They leave you, gasping, back in the Tower...\n\nThe Ivory Tower, where you started this strange adventure, now lies in ruins. Its walls lie scorched about you, the roof rent to the open sky. The stars, in their impassive brilliance, illuminate the devastation below. Over the Tower's remains you catch glimpses of the fires below, trees smoldering in the darkness.\n\nThe Tapestry seems to have survived the Tower's destruction intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask him about the experimental treatment program", "response": "Dr. Albero seems in shock that you know about the treatment. He listens silently as you angrily berate him for not telling you about it, or putting Sarah on the test list. After a moment, he speaks.\n\n\"I'm sorry Tim, I really am, but we checked her out against the criteria for the program and she just didn't fit. That's why I didn't tell you about it. I knew you'd be upset. There isn't even a guarantee that it will work; it's experimental, after all. And even if I did get her in the program, there's a good chance she'd have been in the group receiving the placebo. I'm sorry, but I just can't help you.\"\n\nAmid your protests, Dr. Albero gently hangs up.\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Albero in the papers", "response": "You flip through the papers until you find Dr. Albero's section. Apparently he's quite prominent at the hospital, since he's done quite a few projects over the years. They're listed in chronological order, and the most recent one, an experimental drug treatment program, catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read about the program", "response": "What do you want to read about that in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Papers", "response": "The treatment program is the same one that you read about in today's newspaper. The papers contain information on the proposed method, the budget proposal, and the expected results.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the budget in the papers", "response": "You flip through the project papers and find the budget proposal for the experimental research project. Looking at it, everything seems to be in order, but then something odd catches your eye. The funding request is exceedingly large, but then again, that's expected for so important a project. The oddity comes out in the net results. There's a huge difference between what they're spending on equipment and the like and what's being given to the good doctor for costs. Checking further, you find that he in fact has cut out a good portion of the subjects for the test, no reason given. And yet the money for those subjects is still figured in the budget. Where the hell did the money go?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Albero", "response": "The phone rings a moment and then a female voice answers the phone.\n\n\"Mercy Hospital, how may I help you?\"\n\n\"Dr. Albero please.\"\n\n\"May I ask who's calling?\"\n\n\"Timothy Hunter.\"\n\n\"One moment, please.\" You're put on hold. After a moment, the line picks up again.\n\n\"I told you Tim, I can't help you. Is there something else you wanted to ask about?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask him about the budget", "response": "Dr. Albero remains silent as you point out the differences in his project's budget and doesn't answer when you ask about what happened to the money for the additional subjects. Without warning, he begins shouting at you.\n\n\"Bastard,\" he hisses. \"What the hell is this?! I'm handling the project as I see fit. Who the hell are you to question what I'm doing with the funding?! Who told you to do this, tell me!\"\n\nYou don't answer.\n\n\"Damn you! Why are you doing this?! What the hell do you want?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask him about Sarah", "response": "Dr. Albero is silent for a moment.\n\n\"What the hell does Sarah have to do with the project's budget?\" he asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the snapshot", "response": "(to Sarah)\n\"Oh Timmy. We had so much fun up there, didn't we? 'The Sweet Audrina.'\" She laughs. God, we we almost drowned, didn't we?\" You laugh with her for a moment, then you both fall silent. She takes your hand. \"We had some pretty good times, didn't we? Tell me a story, Timmy.\" she says, \"tell me about the lake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Sarah about the lake", "response": "You tell Sarah the story, embellishing what really happened. That always made her laugh, the way you used to exaggerate everything until it became bigger than life. She smiles, remembering.\n\n\"Oh, we had so much fun, didn't we?\" You nod.\n\n\"Remember when we were happy, Sarah? Remember how it was before all of this? We can be like that again, I swear it ... please ...\"\n\nSarah seems lost in thought, her feelings torn between the hopelessness she has felt for so long and the possible release that lies before her. She pauses, sighs, and then look up to you.\n\n\"Ok, Timothy. For you .. for you, I'll try one last time.\"\n\nYou smile and kiss her. \"This will work, Sarah, I swear it ... you'll see.\"\n\nSarah looks at you oddly for a moment, then closes her eyes.\n\n\"I know, Tim, I know ... now, let me get some sleep, ok? We'll go to the hospital later.\"\n\nYou sneak out of the room, and close the door silently. Morningstar is waiting for you in the living room. He smiles broadly.\n\n\"Well done, my friend. You have fought the evil that you planted so long ago in the past. You have saved your wife's life, and your own soul.\"\n\n\"Two steps now, Timothy, along my path. You have done well, and a greater challenge still lies ahead. But I have faith in you Timothy, and I know I shall see you again at the end of this Path.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace. They leave you, gasping, back in the Tower...\n\nThe Ivory Tower, where you started this strange adventure, now lies in ruins. Its walls lie scorched about you, the roof rent to the open sky. The stars, in their impassive brilliance, illuminate the devastation below. Over the Tower's remains you catch glimpses of the fires below, trees smoldering in the darkness.\n\nThe Tapestry seems to have survived the Tower's destruction intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch third", "response": "Suddenly the rumbling returns, and the threads throw you into their heaving embrace. After a time they leave you gasping on another strange and distant shore...\n\nYou turn the corner with a sigh, glancing at the street sign in a feeble, half-hearted attempt to figure out where you are. You've left the old familiar neighborhood far behind you tonight, as you have almost every night. Each outing seems to take you a little further, to an area a little stranger and more dangerous.\n\nTonight, you didn't even bother giving yourself an excuse. Before, it had been that you had somewhere to go, something to do. Not tonight. Some indeterminate time ago, you stumbled out of the house, stuck the key in the ignition, and just started driving.\n\nThe sharp honk of a nearby car breaks your musings. You glance upward to see a pair of girls, jump ropes under their arms, pigtails flying behind them, run across the street, right in front of your car...\n\nTime slows as you slam down on your brakes. For a moment, you don't think you'll make it, but with a squeal of the tires, your old Dodge manages to grind to a halt in time. The girls make it across, laughing all the while, unaware of how close death has come.\n\nThe old hunk of junk has served you pretty well in the past few years. You could probably afford something better, but why bother? It runs, it gets you to work and back. What more could you want? What more do you need?\n\nThe buildings outside seem mostly tenements, their residents escaping the sweltering evening by sitting outside on the stone porches, the sidewalks. The girls continue on their way, and soon enter a tenement.\n\nWith a sigh a relief, you step on the gas and continue on your way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the car", "response": "The further you go, the more convinced you're only getting yourself more lost. If anything, the neighborhoods are getting worse. The homeless are more and visible, and the buildings are more decrepit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nAs your mind begins to wander, your attention to the road slips. It's been so long since you've been able to just stop; to put all that's happened and all you've done behind. The scars that are left won't fade that easily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn wheel", "response": "The wheel spins in your hands wildly as you futilely attempt to control it.\n\nYou rebound, sending the car into the air. Closer now, you see her slowly lifting her head, about to realize the flying mass of metal that will end her life. Beyond, on the curb, you can make out the figure you saw in the tableau, eyes ablaze and mouth agape, attempting to scramble to its feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the figure", "response": "He's terrified for some reason, while crawling his way across the pavement towards the helpless girl.\n\nThe car strikes the pavement with a resounding force, the tires squealing as they touch ground. Your headlights strike the girl full in the face, illuminating her in a blinding halo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn wheel", "response": "The tires spin and squeal wildly as you turn the wheel sharply, sending the car into a tailspin. Somehow, by some miracle, it's enough. Practically flipping over, the car somehow manages to swerve around the girl.\n\nBut it's too much, the car is listing dangerously to the right, and in an attempt to stop from tipping over, you turn the wheel sharply to the left.\n\nBefore you can react, the light flashes again, and time contracts to its normal pace, just as the car spins out of control, heading directly for the figure on the sidewalk...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn wheel", "response": "Fleeting glimpses of faces half-remembered in the gloom. Screams, the sound of squealing tires, a sudden thump, a sickening crunch and a violent jolt, followed by a sense of weightlessness and disassociation. The last thing you remember is an overwhelming feeling of guilt and regret, forcing its way through the chaos that surrounds you and then there is...\n\nChaos, complete and utter. While the threads of the Tapestry gave you some sense of closure, of being contained, the place where you are now is paradoxically vast and empty, and yet somehow filled. Filled with images and sound, form and motion, a shifting menagerie with neither rhyme nor reason. A filled void, an ever-changing structure whose bounds you can not even begin to imagine. Your senses reel at the assault from every angle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "There is only Everything.\n\n\"Well done...\"\n\nThe voice behind you startles you, causing you to swiftly turn around. Your vision blurs sickeningly for a moment, as you take in the chaotic panorama that surrounds you. Then, your eyes clearing, you see Morningstar standing before you, smiling and obviously unaffected by the confusion that he is at the center of.\n\n\"Beautiful, is it not?\" he asks, looking about. \"The whole of creation is here, Timothy, all existence, all possibility. Pure change lies here, mortal, for to be all forms at all times is to be no form at all. It is from here that the threads of creation are woven, from whence the Tapestry of your life springs. It is here that we are able to bend those threads to our whim, to change your destiny for the better.\" He pauses, then smiles. \"Forgive me,\" he says. \"I merely wished you to see this, to understand some part of the great work we do.\"\n\n\"And with this, we are finished. Well done, traveler! You have looked upon the evil of your ways and done your best to mend them and you have wisely taken advantage of your second chance. The Path you have followed is now at an end; the Tapestry is finished, its threads rewoven. And now, the time has come to leave this place of indecision, and face whatever destiny lies before you. I wish you well.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace...\n\nFleeting glimpses of faces half-remembered in the gloom. Screams, the sound of squealing tires, a sudden thump, a sickening crunch and a violent jolt, followed by a sense of weightlessness and disassociation. The last thing you remember is an overwhelming feeling of guilt and regret, forcing its way through the chaos that surrounds you and then there is...\n\nYour sight fails you. For that matter, you don't know if your eyes are opened or closed. Concepts like time and place have no meaning here. Your mind attempts to impose something, some order, some structure, upon the space in which you exist, and fails. There is only the void. For all you know, that is all there ever was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake up", "response": "There is only Nothing.\n\nNo, wait. There is ... something, moving in the darkness. It dances at the edge of your new-found vision, teasing you.\n\nNo, you were wrong...\n\nThere is only Nothing.\n\n\n\nTimothy Hunter was born, he lived, he died.\n\nThis was only natural, being mortal. The life he led was probably most unusual in its normalcy; his childhood so much so as to be mundane. Neither praised nor reviled, neither a leader nor an outcast, he was simply another face in the crowd. He went to school, he studied, he did well enough to get by. After graduation he found a job he was good at and paid well enough. He bought a little house and lived there, a bother to no one, and the days just flowed one into the other...\n\nIn fact, the first event of any importance in his life was the death of his mother.\n\nShe had been ill for some time, but Timothy tried not to think about it. He'd placed her in Mercy Hospital mostly to forget about her, to get on with his life. Apparently, however, it wasn't good enough. His work suffered, his productivity slipped. On the Sunday that she died, he realized that the charity case he had been doing for the firm wasn't yet finished. Half-way through his frantic working, he received a phone call from Mercy Hospital. They gave her an hour at the most.\n\nSomething must have happened then; the guilt that Timothy had felt at putting her in the Hospital must have caught up with him. On the spot, he decided that he couldn't finish the Thompson account.\n\nCalling his friend Mike at the firm, he quickly described his mother's condition and that the Thompson account would not be finished on time. Racing to his mother's side, he was there in her final moments, comforting her as best he could, apologizing for what he had done.\n\nThe Thompson's lost everything they had ever worked for.\n\nThe time after his mother's death was a lonely one for Timothy, perhaps because, for the first time, he realized he was truly alone. Then, he met Sarah, and everything changed. She was so loving, so full of life, so willing to drag him from the small, empty world he had built for himself. They complemented each other so well: her spontaneity to his structure, her boundless energy to his complacency. Their whirlwind romance caught him totally unawares, and when she accepted his proposal of marriage, he thought himself the happiest man on earth.\n\nTruly, their first five years together were the happiest time of his life. The experience of having his life so intricately tied to another was exhiliarating; he built his entire existence around her.\n\nWhich is why her falling ill struck him so hard.\n\nIt was agonizing for Timothy to see her wasting away. \"Apentrylic Syndrome\" they called it, a metabolic disorder carried in a recessive gene. There wasn't a cure, they told him, and they didn't think she'd last more than a year.\n\nThey were wrong. For five years, Timothy watched his wife slowly rotting away from the inside. Her energy faded, her strength tapped away. The similarity to his mother was horrifying, both women clinging to life in a way that was almost unnatural. The strain on Timothy was telling, and when he happened upon the article discussing a possible cure to the Syndrome, he was overjoyed.\n\nBut, upon realizing it was Dr. Albero who was running the program, he fell into a rage. Calling the hospital, he angrily demanded why Sarah had not been entered into the program. The doctor's excuses of placebos and control groups meant nothing to him and, in an attempt to make the bastard agree to let her in the program, happened upon the project's budget. Calling the good doctor back, he causally mentioned the discrepancy in the monies.\n\nUnder the threat of blackmail, Albero agreed to allow Sarah the treatment. And, miraculously, it worked. Sarah got better, although she was never again the vibrant woman Timothy remembered.\n\nHalfway through the program, Dr. Albero mysteriously committed suicide, for reasons unknown.\n\nThe time after Sarah's crisis was much like it had been before his mother's death; his life mundane, his existence centered around his work. The disease had taken away much of Sarah's vitality, and her zest for life was never the same. His time devoted more and more to himself and his work, he began to withdraw more and more from the world at large. At night, he drove around the city alone, trying to find the meaning of what had happened to him, of why such things had happened to him.\n\nThe night he died was such a night. He had been driving for hours, only half paying attention to what was going on. Then, from nowhere, a young girl ran into the middle of the road. With a cry and acting purely on what must have been instinct, he wrenched the wheel to the right, narrowly missing the young woman and almost flipping the car over. In an attempt to right himself, he swerved to the left ... and struck a young man standing on the sidewalk. Both he and Timothy were killed on impact. Afterwards, it was revealed that the young man was the woman's boyfriend. They had had an argument and in an attempt to get away from him, she had half pushed, half been pushed into the the road. Timothy's quick thinking had merely exchanged the death of one of the lovers for the other.\n\nTimothy Hunter was born, he lived, he died. To say anything more would be futile speculation.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You examine the intake", "response": "But you've already completed the Thompson's records for this year's intake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the forms", "response": "With the completed records in hand, you begin filling out the forms. By this point, you're so sick of numbers you find it harder and harder not to give up. As you press on, you become worried. You've got to stay awake, aware, because any mistakes at this point could be disastrous...\n\nFour hours later, you're finished. Your hands are cramped from all the writing, your mind spinning from the columns of data, but it's done. You separate the forms from the rest of papers with a sigh of relief.\n\nSuddenly you stop short. You forgot about the signatures! You frantically begin scanning the bottom of the forms, praying you won't find that they have to be signed with a witness...\n\n...and you find that they do. What the hell are you going to do? It's Sunday! How on Earth are you going to get in touch with a notary public this late on a Sunday afternoon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the card", "response": "You peek inside your wallet and see some money and a small, white business card.\n\nIt's a business card from a local taxi agency complete with their telephone number.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Your work papers lie in disarray beside the telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the taxi", "response": "The phone rings several times, and then the line picks up.\n\n\"Hello, BK Taxi, can I help you?\"\n\nYou quickly explain that you need a taxi sent around to your house as soon as possible.\n\n\"Certainly sir, it'll be there as soon as possible.\"\n\nYou hang up the phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the cabbie about City Hall", "response": "\"You got it, mac\" says the cabbie as he hits starts the meter and pulls out of the driveway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the litter", "response": "The trip seems interminable, the cabbie babbling throughout it. Talk of nothing: the weather, the ball game on television last night. You hardly hear him. All you can think about is your mother in that vile smelling white room, breathing her last. You close your eyes and hope you'll be finished with this in time.\n\nThe sunlight flickers over your closed eyelids, making a shadow-dance beneath, and you pause, lost for a moment in their flickering patterns. Let her be ok ... please, just let her be ok.\n\nThe sudden stop in front of the Hall rudely breaks your reverie. \"That'll be 15, bucks\", says the cabbie, hitting the meter's flag.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" you say, handing him your last fifteen dollars, \"I don't have enough for a tip.\"\n\nThe cabbie looks at you for a moment, and then a smile breaks slowly across his face. He sighs. \"Forget it, buddy. You look like you could use a break.\" You profusely thank him as you open the taxi's door and rush up the long marble steps into the building...\n\nCity Hall is a veritable labyrynth of cold, marble corridors and your breathing echoes about you as you run, searching for the notary public's office. You almost miss it when the writing on the door catches your attention out of the corner of your eye. Practically knocking it down, you rush into the office.\n\n\"... and here he is!\" Mike says, seeing you. \"Come on, Timmy-boy, let's get this show on the road!\" He quickly introduces you to Mrs. Thompson, a middle-aged woman with graying hair, and the notary public. The signatures are done in a flash, with Mrs. Thompson thanking your profusely the entire time, telling you how much this means to them, that they won't be losing the family business, about how afraid they were.\n\nYou hardly hear her. All you can think about is your mother, lying there in that room.\n\n\"... Mr. Hunter? Are you all right?\" Mrs. Thompson's question snaps you back to reality.\n\n\"Mike, Mike ... did you bring your car?\" you ask him frantically.\n\nYour fear suddenly breaks through his bravado.\n\n\"Yeah, Tim. It's out back. What's the matter?\"\n\n\"It's, it's my mom, we ... I've got to get to the hospital...\"\n\nMike grabs you by the shoulder and the next thing you know, you're running down the corridor again, heading for the back parking lot. Behind you, you can hear Mrs. Thompson calling.\n\n\"Thank you again, Mr. Hunter! I hope your mom's all right...!\"\n\nYou remember nightmares as a child like this, where no matter how fast you went, you knew it was never quite fast enough...\n\nMike's driving like a maniac, but some part of you already knows that it's too late. You've already been through this and it's too late. And yet...\n\nAnd yet there's some part of you that's hoping that somehow, someway, she'll be ok, that it won't be the same this time ... it won't ... just somehow.\n\nMike pulls up in front of Mercy with a screech, yelling at you as you slam into the front doors to go ahead, he'll be up right behind you.\n\nYou rush past the front desk, running for the elevators and slip between the doors just as they're closing. You frantically stab at the buttons, and then slump against the back wall. First, second, third, fourth, hurry god-damn you hurry ... please ... please ... fourth, come on ... come on you ... fifth! The doors slide back and you rush down the corridor, almost slipping on the tiles and finally come to a screetching halt at the door to your mother's room.\n\n\"I'm sorry, Tim,\" says Doctor Hughes. He's standing in over your mother's bed ... just like in the Tapestry.\n\n\"No!\" But it's too late. She's dead. It takes a moment for you to comprehend this. And then you're rushing forward, falling on your knees next to her, clutching her hand and crying out that you didn't mean to. You didn't mean to abandon her. You wanted to be here...\n\nBut now it's too late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Doctor", "response": "ONE WEEK LATER...\n\nThe past few days have been a blur; the funeral arrangements, the reading of the will, the unending visits by family and friends, offering their condolences, all of it running and smearing together in a confused muddle...\n\nYour mother specified in her will exactly how she wanted everything: the open-casket viewing, whom she wanted to speak the eulogies. It's almost over now, the last of the remaining mourners (mostly old friends of your mother's you haven't seen in years) having already spoken with you. Some stragglers are still making their way past the coffin. As for you, you've been in the back of the room, shaking hands, saying thanks for their condolences, and feeling utterly numb. You haven't had the courage all afternoon to head to the north end of the parlor and see your mother lying there...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A cold gust of wind arises from nowhere as you attempt to cross the room. The wind rises in intensity and a swirling smoke begins to rise from the ground. A dark writing cloud forms before you and from it a cloaked figure emerges. Its face lost in the swirling mists behind its hood, the figure speaks:\n\n\"Hail mortal! We know each other well, though perhaps you remember me not. I have been at your side for many a year, your closest friend, your worst enemy. Familiar lover and bitter adversary. You know me!\nYou sense it deep inside where your guilt grows in the darkness like the twisted weed it is!\" he laughs. \"And now! After all this time! At last, a reckoning! Will you face me? Have you hubris enough to commit the breaking of your Moira? Are you fool enough to face your crimes?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the figure", "response": "The Wraith is a fearsome figure, indeed. Draped in a cloak of darkest night, its face hidden from sight, its hands lost in the folds of its cloak, what is not seen is far more frightening than what might be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Wraith about Moira", "response": "\"Answer, fool! Hast thou courage enough to face me?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"Fool! You dare deny me?! You, mere mortal, dare to sunder the Moira set for you? How can you deny what you have done?!\"\n\n\"Admit defeat, fool! Admit the evil you have done!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"How CAN YOU?! You KILLED her, your MOTHER, whom you owe your life to! MURDERER! What rationalization do you have this time??\"\n\n\"What excuse have you?!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about Thompsons", "response": "You tell the Wraith about the Thompson account, about how badly they needed your help and of how they would have gone bankrupt without it. You tell it of Mrs. Thompson's tears, of her thanks.\n\n\"LIES! You care for no one but YOURSELF! How DARE you lie as such, to make me believe that you would care for another so much! You left her there!\"\n\n\"You abandoned her, monster, left her for dead!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The Wraith silently glides between you and the casket, blocking you from approaching it.\n\n\"You abandoned her, monster, left her for dead!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"BASTARD! LIAR! Your golden tongue shall not save you!\"\n\n\"Why were you not there for her at the last? Where WERE you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about the Doctor", "response": "\"Why were you not there for her at the last? Where WERE you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about City Hall", "response": "Crying, half-reliving it, you tell the Wraith of the trip to City Hall, of how you wished you could have been in two places at once, of the nightmare trip back, only to find out it was too late.\n\nThere is no response...\n\nAs suddenly as it appeared, the Wraith vanishes, and in its place stands Clotho of the Parcae.\n\n\"You have chosen well, Timothy,\" she says. \"You have learned of your Moira and chosen, as you should, to live within it. You have learned to stand by your decisions, and you have faced your fears with strength and courage.\"\n\nShe gently takes you by the hand and leads you through the frozen crowd towards the casket. Once there, she steps back, waiting. You step forwards, fearful of what you're about to face, but take a deep breath and peer inside.\n\nShe looks beautiful. Her hair falls across her face, just covering her eyes, and the dress she wears was always one of her favorites. \"I'm sorry, Mom, I'm sorry...\" you whisper. And suddenly, somehow, you know. You know that she understands, that it wasn't your fault. She knows that you didn't abandon her, that you were trying to help. You turn to Clotho, eyes bright with tears, and she nods.\n\n\"Yes, Timothy. She always knew. And, perhaps in a way, you did as well. But your fear, your irrational guilt, blocked that, stopped you from seeing the truth. And now, now that your Moira has changed, now that you have faced the Wraith, you have stopped what happened before.\"\n\nMemory floods back. The funeral. How you fled, how you couldn't face seeing her after what had happened ... it's changed.\n\nClotho nods once more. \"Yes, Timothy. Well done.\"\n\n\"You have taken the first step along my path, Timothy. Once chosen, it cannot be abandoned. You shall follow it to its conclusion, with the choices you shall make elsewhere. I shall be near, to guide you as you shall need.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace. They leave you, gasping, back in the Tower...\n\nThe Ivory Tower, where you started this strange adventure, now lies in ruins. Its walls lie scorched about you, the roof rent to the open sky. The stars, in their impassive brilliance, illuminate the devastation below. Over the Tower's remains you catch glimpses of the fires below, trees smoldering in the darkness.\n\nThe Tapestry seems to have survived the Tower's destruction intact.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "No", "response": "Without a face, the Spectre nonetheless grins. \"Victory! You are wise to know when you are outmatched. To know that your guilt is not without cause, and that to live with it is your course. Your Moira remains unbroken, the path you chose so long ago remains unchanged. Farewell, mortal, for we shall meet again...\"\n\nAs suddenly as it appeared, the Wraith vanishes, and in its place stands Atropos of the Parcae.\n\n\"You have chosen well, Timothy,\" she says. \"You have faced the temptation of hubris and not committed excess. You have learned of your Moira and chosen, as you should, to live within it. You have stood by your decisions and not dared to face the Spectre of your guilt.\"\n\nShe turns and looks towards the waiting casket. \"There are some things that simply cannot be faced, Timothy. Remember this.\"\n\nAtropos turns back to you. \"You have taken the first step along my path, Timothy. Once chosen, it cannot be abandoned. You shall follow it to its conclusion, with the choices you shall make elsewhere. I shall be near, to guide you as you shall need.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace. They leave you, gasping, back in the Tower...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The Ivory Tower, where you started this strange adventure, now lies in ruins. Its walls lie scorched about you, the roof rent to the open sky. The stars, in their impassive brilliance, illuminate the devastation below. Over the Tower's remains you catch glimpses of the fires below, trees smoldering in the darkness.\n\nThe Tapestry seems to have survived the Tower's destruction intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Off to one side, built into the wall, is a small fireplace.\n\nA strange new addition to the room is the small tapestry hanging on the eastern wall.\n\nYour bedroom has been one of the few areas where Sarah's influence has been at work. You felt the presence of her long after she had gone, and a few months after her death put it back the way it had been. A door to the east leads back to the den and to the south is the bathroom.\n\nSomehow, in this strange world of the past, Sarah still lives. She's lying, half asleep, in bed.\n\nBeside the bed is a small endtable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smother sarah", "response": "Clutching the pillow, you consider it. It would be so simple. She would die in her sleep, painless, quiet. And she'd be free of it forever. Your hands tremble as you think of it...\n\nSarah looks up at you with wide open eyes. You turn away horrified. You can't do it, you just can't do it. You take a deep breath and try and calm yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Somehow, in this strange world of the past, Sarah still lives. She's lying, half asleep, in bed.\n\nBeside the bed is a small endtable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Off to one side, built into the wall, is a small fireplace.\n\nA strange new addition to the room is the small tapestry hanging on the eastern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smother sarah", "response": "Clutching the pillow, you consider it. It would be so simple. She would die in her sleep, painless, quiet. And she'd be free of it forever. Your hands tremble as you think of it...\n\nGently, tenderly, you stroke her cheek and kiss her forehead. Then, you silently place the pillow over her face and wait. Nothing happens for a few moments, then Sarah's breathing suddenly becomes irregular. For a brief moment you're seized with panic. You want to take the pillow away, make her breathe again.\n\nYou bite your lip painfully and take a deep breath. Sarah's breathing is still irregular. She gasps once, and then her breathing slows. Slower and slower the breaths come, until, at last they stop altogether.\n\nYou gently remove the pillow. Her eyes are closed and her face is, for the first time since the illness, peaceful. Your vision blurs as tears fill your eyes and you collapse, crying unashamedly. You go on and on, all the pain and sorrow of what has happened pouring out of you. After what seems an eternity, you recover enough to stand again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "A cold gust of wind arises from nowhere and your hand is violently forced back from the endtable. The wind rises in intensity and a swirling smoke begins to rise from the ground. A dark writing cloud forms before you and from it a cloaked figure emerges. Its face lost in the swirling mists behind its hood, the figure speaks:\n\nThe wraith laughs coldly. \"So, we meet again!\"\n\n\"And, so again, you flee before me! Know you now well enough that it is folly to face MY likes! Get you gone, you have no more business here!\"\n\nAgain, the Wraith vanishes, and Atropos of the Parcae stands before you.\n\n\"Once again, you have chosen rightly, mortal. Hubris discarded, you have followed you Moira, as well you should. The Spectre of your guilt stays appeased.\"\n\nShe turns and looks at the endtable. \"What is there shall remain unknown, as it should be.\"\n\nAtropos turns back to you. \"The second step is now complete, Timothy. One more along my path remains, once more along the threads of your Moira you must travel. Go now.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace. They leave you, gasping, back in the Tower...\n\nThe Ivory Tower, where you started this strange adventure, now lies in ruins. Its walls lie scorched about you, the roof rent to the open sky. The stars, in their impassive brilliance, illuminate the devastation below. Over the Tower's remains you catch glimpses of the fires below, trees smoldering in the darkness.\n\nThe Tapestry seems to have survived the Tower's destruction intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch third", "response": "Suddenly the rumbling returns, and the threads throw you into their heaving embrace. After a time they leave you gasping on another strange and distant shore...\n\nYou turn the corner with a sigh, glancing at the street sign in a feeble, half-hearted attempt to figure out where you are. You've left the old familiar neighborhood far behind you tonight, as you have almost every night. Each outing seems to take you a little further, to an area a little stranger and more dangerous.\n\nTonight, you didn't even bother giving yourself an excuse. Before, it had been that you had somewhere to go, something to do. Not tonight. Some indeterminate time ago, you stumbled out of the house, stuck the key in the ignition, and just started driving.\n\nThe sharp honk of a nearby car breaks your musings. You glance upward to see a pair of girls, jump ropes under their arms, pigtails flying behind them, run across the street, right in front of your car...\n\nTime slows as you slam down on your brakes. For a moment, you don't think you'll make it, but with a squeal of the tires, your old Dodge manages to grind to a halt in time. The girls make it across, laughing all the while, unaware of how close death has come.\n\nThe old hunk of junk has served you pretty well in the past few years. You could probably afford something better, but why bother? It runs, it gets you to work and back. What more could you want? What more do you need?\n\nThe buildings outside seem mostly tenements, their residents escaping the sweltering evening by sitting outside on the stone porches, the sidewalks. The girls continue on their way, and soon enter a tenement.\n\nWith a sigh a relief, you step on the gas and continue on your way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAs your mind begins to wander, your attention to the road slips. It's been so long since you've been able to just stop; to put all that's happened and all you've done behind. The scars that are left won't fade that easily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou withdraw even further into yourself and soon lose all track of time and place. Wandering the ruin of your life and the wreckage of your past, you find yourself lost in more than one way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Now...\"\n\nA whisper calls you back, breaking your reverie. Your eyes focus again, seeing through the window.\n\n\"No...\"\n\nIt's all you can get out before the flash. Yet in that instant you see the scene with perfect clarity: the curb, far too close, the front wheels about to strike it. And there, a little further: the young woman falling. She's still looking downward, still unaware of her impending death.\n\nAnd then the flash, and time slows. The few seconds left before your death stretch, lengthen, and twist about on themselves. It seems you have a moment of reprieve ... but a single moment only.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe car inches closer to the curb, striking it. You see the car dip, sparks flashing out onto the pavement, yet you feel nothing. You are detached, separated somehow. And still the girl sees nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou rebound, sending the car into the air. Closer now, you see her slowly lifting her head, about to realize the flying mass of metal that will end her life. Beyond, on the curb, you can make out the figure you saw in the tableau, eyes ablaze and mouth agape, attempting to scramble to its feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe car strikes the pavement with a resounding force, the tires squealing as they touch ground. Your headlights strike the girl full in the face, illuminating her in a blinding halo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe car continues its lurch forward, carried by its momentum. Both your ends are a heartbeat away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nIt's too late. Tumbling out of control, the last thing you see is the car's headlights inches in front of the young woman's face...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Fleeting glimpses of faces half-remembered in the gloom. Screams, the sound of squealing tires, a sudden thump, a sickening crunch and a violent jolt, followed by a sense of weightlessness and disassociation. The last thing you remember is an overwhelming feeling of guilt and regret, forcing its way through the chaos that surrounds you and then there is...\n\nA dark cliff overlooking an even darker landscape. Above, a full, sullen moon hangs, half-hidden by a mass of dark clouds; below, jagged rocks cover the bank of a black river which flows from a fount in the hillside. You know this place instinctively, the image of it frozen in some primal memory, hidden from view. You realize you've been here before ... in your nightmares.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "It's too hard to make out the river from here...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cliff", "response": "As you peer down the cliff-side, your heart begins to beat wildly. You've always had a fear of heights, and you've had this nightmare many times. You know there's no way to leave short of jumping ... yet you're terrified to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Taking a deep breath and, closing your eyes, you attempt to overcome your panic. Slowly, you step to where you know the cliff edge lies. Standing straight, arms akimbo, you steady yourself and then hurl your body forward with all your might.\n\nFor the briefest of moments, you feel like you're floating, flying, but then gravity asserts itself and you're tumbling out of control. You force your eyes open against the driving wind and see the dark landscape come rushing forward, the stones of the lake shore ready to catch you and break your bones.\n\nYou scream incoherently as you're about to hit...\n\n...when a sudden upward rush of air slows your fall and gently leaves you on the bank of the dark river.\n\nThe moon is brighter here, lighting the scene with an eerie, surreal glow. From a fount in the hillside, a river of black, brackish liquid flows, forming the source of a river which flows out into the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the river", "response": "The black, oily liquid flows sluggishly downward from the fount in the cliff-side, spilling onto the ground and out into the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink river", "response": "As your thrust your hands under the fount and the waters flow over them, you are struck by how frigid it is. Then, in horror, you watch as the waters begin reaching outwards, climbing over your arms and making their way towards your face.\n\nYou scream, attempting to wrest your way free, and as the foul material continues its progress, you realize that the invasion is mental as well as physical. You can feel the waters reaching deep into your mind, freeing the dark counterparts they find there: fear, guilt, hate and self-loathing.\n\nWith a cry, you wrench yourself backwards, falling upon the soft river bank. But the waters do not give up so easily, and the psychic pull continues for a moment afterwards before releasing you. Left numb and empty, you resolve never to touch the foul stuff again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The moon is brighter here, lighting the scene with an eerie, surreal glow. From a fount in the hillside, a river of black, brackish liquid flows, forming the source of a river which flows out into the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You find yourself unable to leave this place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You never want to touch that again for as long as you live.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the moon", "response": "The moon seems closer here than it did on the cliff top. Somehow, you feel as if you could just reach out and touch it...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the moon", "response": "Your hand tingles strangely as you pass it in front of your view of the moon...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the moon", "response": "Feeling foolish, you raise your hands, trying to catch the moon between them. You remember how, as a child, you used to think that if you stood tall enough, you could catch it like a ball and hold it in your arms. You strain further and further, reaching upwards ... and then you catch hold. Gently, unbelieving, you pull the orb down from the now-darkened skies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the moon", "response": "The silvery orb glows brightly in your hands, a small but perfect replica of the moon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the moon in the river", "response": "As you approach the river with the sphere, you notice it shining even more brightly, even as the river begins to bubble and swirl. Gently, carefully, you toss the moon onto the river's surface. It floats serenely for a moment, then begins to sink into the mire. The waters roil and twist about it, trying to pull it downwards, and for a moment they appear to be succeeding. But then a shining beam of light flies upwards, fighting against the current and eddies and the orb makes its way to the surface again.\n\nAs darkness and light continue their struggle, you notice streams of ichor flying upwards from the river, swirling over the surface. A hideous keening noise fills the air as these ghost shapes surround you, flowing upwards and out, screaming into the night. Before you, between you and the banks of the now violent flow, a swirling mass of darkness forms itself into a cloaked figure. Standing forth, it speaks:\n\nThe wraith laughs coldly. \"So, we meet again!\"\n\n\"Three times have me met, mortal, and three times have you fled! Know you the master of your Moira, know you the Spectre of your guilt!\" The creature throws back its hidden head and laughs, the sound chilling your blood. Still laughing, it vanishes, and a Atropos of the Parcae stands before you.\n\n\"The circle is now complete, Timothy. You have acted rightly, and the end of your journey along my Path draws near. Your Moira remains whole and intact, and your destiny within its boundaries firmly set. The crisis is past, disaster no longer looms near.\"\n\nShe turns and looks towards the churning waters. As she does so, the orb's light fades, and the black waters rise. Sinking from sight, the now-dead moon vanishes, and the waters are quiet, still and dark.\n\n\"Some places should stay hidden in darkness, Timothy,\" she whispers. \"Illumination is not always a good thing.\"\n\nAtropos turns back to you. \"The final step has been taken, Timothy. The Tapestry is finished, your Moira secure. The time has come to leave this place of indecision, mortal, and face whatever destiny lies before you. I wish you well.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace...\n\nFleeting glimpses of faces half-remembered in the gloom. Screams, the sound of squealing tires, a sudden thump, a sickening crunch and a violent jolt, followed by a sense of weightlessness and disassociation. The last thing you remember is an overwhelming feeling of guilt and regret, forcing its way through the chaos that surrounds you and then there is...\n\nYour sight fails you. For that matter, you don't know if your eyes are opened or closed. Concepts like time and place have no meaning here. Your mind attempts to impose something, some order, some structure, upon the space in which you exist, and fails. There is only the void. For all you know, that is all there ever was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the photo", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Somehow, in this strange world of the past, Sarah still lives. She's lying, half asleep, in bed.\n\nBeside the bed is a small endtable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bottle", "response": "You open the medicine cabinet, revealing a small bottle of pills.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the glass", "response": "Taken.\n\nWater begins flowing from the tap into the sink.\n\nYou carefully fill the glass with water and then shut off the tap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the paper to Sarah", "response": "You're about to tell Sarah about the experiment, but then think better of it. What's the point of depressing her? She'll never get in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the pills to Sarah", "response": "Sarah looks up at you and smiles.\n\n\"Aww ... how sweet, my knight in shining armor come to take me to dreamland?\" You help her up and she swallows the pills with a sip of water. She takes hold of your hand. You see her lower lip trembling slightly. \"Thank you Timmy,\" she whispers, \"for everything.\"\n\nShe lies back down and closes her eyes, but she still has trouble falling asleep. God, you wish she could sleep forever, away from the sickness and the pain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the photo to Sarah", "response": "\"Oh Timmy. We had so much fun up there, didn't we? 'The Sweet Audrina.'\" She laughs. God, we we almost drowned, didn't we?\" You laugh with her for a moment, then you both fall silent. She takes your hand. \"We had some pretty good times, didn't we? Tell me a story, Timmy.\" she says, \"tell me about the lake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Sarah about the lake", "response": "You tell Sarah the story, embellishing what really happened. That always made her laugh, the way you used to exaggerate everything until it became bigger than life. She smiles, remembering.\n\n\"Oh, we had so much fun, didn't we?\" She yawns, then pats your hand. \"I think I've had enough excitement for one day, I'm going to take a nap, ok?\" You nod, and tuck her in as her breathing becomes slow and regular.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Worry about the drawer later. You have more important things to do now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "A cold gust of wind arises from nowhere and your hand is violently forced back from the endtable. The wind rises in intensity and a swirling smoke begins to rise from the ground. A dark writing cloud forms before you and from it a cloaked figure emerges. Its face lost in the swirling mists behind its hood, the figure speaks:\n\nThe wraith laughs coldly. \"So, we meet again!\"\n\n\"And again, you dare to defy me? I shall destroy you, fool!\"\n\n\"Admit defeat, Timothy! Admit that you never loved her!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"Liar! Admit that she never loved you!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"You dare to still say this be love after her murder?! How can you? Tell me of her, this one you murdered!\"\n\n\"Tell me of Sarah!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about the lake", "response": "\"Tell me of Sarah!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about Sarah", "response": "Mortally afraid and shaking, you nonetheless face the Wraith. You tell it of Sarah's sickness, of her suffering. You explain that you wished to free her from all of it, that she herself found living impossible. You tell the Spectre that your act was one of love.\n\n\"You LIE! You cannot prove you were even ONCE happy together!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about the lake", "response": "\"Proof, fool! Your words are not enough!\"\n\n\"You LIE! You cannot prove you were even ONCE happy together!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the photo to Wraith", "response": "The Wraith listens, a silent judge, as you tell him of your marriage. Of the happy times you had together, of the story of the lake, and how happy Sarah was then, and how happy she was when you shared it with her now.\n\nThere is no response...\n\nAs suddenly as it appeared, the Wraith vanishes,and in its place stands Clotho of the Parcae.\n\n\"Well done, Timothy! Once again, you have faced your fears and been victorious!\"\n\nClotho turns from you and approaches the endtable. Silently, she opens the drawer within it, rather anticlimactically revealing a small, folded note. She retrieves it and hands it to you. You see that it bears your name written on the front in Sarah's hand.\n\nIt reads:\n\nMy Dearest Timothy,\n\nIf you are reading this then either I have taken my own life, or\nyou have helped me to. In either case, there are things I wish you to understand. Please do not think me selfish, my love, to do this. The pain we have both suffered is needless and my choice was to relieve us both of it. [9]If you have helped me to do this, then I know you have done so out of love. Do not let guilt get in the way of your knowing this, for I go to a better place, where I know someday you will join me. I will always love you, dearest, as I know you love me.\n\nYours always,\nSarah\n\nYou stand there, silent for a moment. You don't remember ever reading this note. Maybe your facing the Wraith changed something.\n\nClotho nods, as if reading your thoughts. \"Yes, Timothy. While you have followed your choices for the most part, your Moira has, in fact, been changed. Your confrontation with your guilt has allowed you to see the truth. To see that Sarah was in pain and she wanted you to do this.\"\n\n\"And so, you have taken the second path along your altered Moira. The threads of your Destiny are changing Timothy ... do not falter now. Be brave, for the final step you do not take alone.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace. They leave you, gasping, back in the Tower...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe further you go, the more convinced you're only getting yourself more lost. If anything, the neighborhoods are getting worse. The homeless are more and visible, and the buildings are more decrepit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAs your mind begins to wander, your attention to the road slips. It's been so long since you've been able to just stop; to put all that's happened and all you've done behind. The scars that are left won't fade that easily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou withdraw even further into yourself and soon lose all track of time and place. Wandering the ruin of your life and the wreckage of your past, you find yourself lost in more than one way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn wheel", "response": "Morningstar's laughter echoes about you.\n\n\"I am afraid not, my friend. You were foolish enough not to take my offer and that is one choice you must live with.\"\n\nYou rebound, sending the car into the air. Closer now, you see her slowly lifting her head, about to realize the flying mass of metal that will end her life. Beyond, on the curb, you can make out the figure you saw in the tableau, eyes ablaze and mouth agape, attempting to scramble to its feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "Fleeting glimpses of faces half-remembered in the gloom. Screams, the sound of squealing tires, a sudden thump, a sickening crunch and a violent jolt, followed by a sense of weightlessness and disassociation. The last thing you remember is an overwhelming feeling of guilt and regret, forcing its way through the chaos that surrounds you and then there is...\n\nA dark cliff overlooking an even darker landscape. Above, a full, sullen moon hangs, half-hidden by a mass of dark clouds; below, jagged rocks cover the bank of a black river which flows from a fount in the hillside. You know this place instinctively, the image of it frozen in some primal memory, hidden from view. You realize you've been here before ... in your nightmares.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Taking a deep breath and, closing your eyes, you attempt to overcome your panic. Slowly, you step to where you know the cliff edge lies. Standing straight, arms akimbo, you steady yourself and then hurl your body forward with all your might.\n\nFor the briefest of moments, you feel like you're floating, flying, but then gravity asserts itself and you're tumbling out of control. You force your eyes open against the driving wind and see the dark landscape come rushing forward, the stones of the lake shore ready to catch you and break your bones.\n\nYou scream incoherently as you're about to hit...\n\n...when a sudden upward rush of air slows your fall and gently leaves you on the bank of the dark river.\n\nThe moon is brighter here, lighting the scene with an eerie, surreal glow. From a fount in the hillside, a river of black, brackish liquid flows, forming the source of a river which flows out into the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the river", "response": "The black, oily liquid flows sluggishly downward from the fount in the cliff-side, spilling onto the ground and out into the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the moon in the river", "response": "As you approach the river with the sphere, you notice it shining even more brightly, even as the river begins to bubble and swirl. Gently, carefully, you toss the moon onto the river's surface. It floats serenely for a moment, then begins to sink into the mire. The waters roil and twist about it, trying to pull it downwards, and for a moment they appear to be succeeding. But then a shining beam of light flies upwards, fighting against the current and eddies and the orb makes its way to the surface again.\n\nAs darkness and light continue their struggle, you notice streams of ichor flying upwards from the river, swirling over the surface. A hideous keening noise fills the air as these ghost shapes surround you, flowing upwards and out, screaming into the night. Before you, between you and the banks of the now violent flow, a swirling mass of darkness forms itself into a cloaked figure. Standing forth, it speaks:\n\nThe wraith laughs coldly. \"So, we meet again!\"\n\n\"And it shall be for the FINAL time! You shall not escape me so easily!\"\n\n\"MURDERER! So you kill again! Slaughtering an innocent in cold blood!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about the accident", "response": "\"MURDERER! So you kill again! Slaughtering an innocent in cold blood!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"How say you so?! Not murder?!\"\n\n\"How do you explain away your action?!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about car", "response": "\"An accident? HA! You killed that poor child in your haste to flee! You butchered in your panicked flight from the guilt of your evil!\"\n\n\"You are a fool and a coward!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about the figure", "response": "\"You are a fool and a coward!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"Liar! What bravery have you shown?!\"\n\n\"What adversary have YOU stood against!?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wraith about Wraith", "response": "The wraith stands silent as you shout that you have have bravery enough to stand against it and the fear and guilt you have felt. Then, as suddenly as it appeared, the Wraith vanishes, and in its place stands Clotho of the Parcae.\n\n\"You have done it!\" she cries, her face and eyes bright with tears. \"Oh Timothy, you have defeated the Wraith, the guilt and darkness within yourself, the embodiment of all you feared ... \"\n\nShe turns and faces the battling forces behind her. As you both watch, the glow from the orb slowly begins to increase in intensity, flooding the buckling waters with shafts of brilliant light. Wailing in pain and defeat, the blackness begins to subside, and the river begin to brighten. In moments, there is nothing left of the foul substance, and the waters flowing outward from the font are crystal-clear.\n\nApproaching the edge of the bank, Clotho reaches out and grasps the orb in both hands. With a sly smile, she places it in her robes, where it vanishes between the folds.\n\n\"Come Timothy,\" she says as she motions you towards the fount. \"Come drink...\"\n\nThe water is cold as it passes your lips and after drinking deeply, you find the water quenching a deep thirst you never knew you had. As you continue, gulping draught after draught, you find your mind opening, the light of the illuminating water brightening some hidden darkness deep within you. As you stand and turn back to Clotho, you reach an epiphany: that the guilt you felt for the accident was unwarranted. Certainly, you should have paid more attention, but that would not have saved the girl. Attention or not, her sudden appearance in the middle of the road is what caught you by surprise.\n\nClotho nods. \"Yes Timothy, the light you have drawn down from the skies has illuminated the the secrets you have kept from yourself. Well done.\"\n\n\"The final step has been taken, Timothy. The Tapestry is finished, your Moira secure. The fear and guilt of your past you have faced bravely, and perhaps this fate you have woven for yourself is better then the one We originally wove for you. The time has come to leave this place of indecision, mortal, and face whatever destiny lies before you. I wish you well.\"\n\nThe whirling threads appear, and tear you from where you stand into their heaving embrace...\n\nFleeting glimpses of faces half-remembered in the gloom. Screams, the sound of squealing tires, a sudden thump, a sickening crunch and a violent jolt, followed by a sense of weightlessness and disassociation. The last thing you remember is an overwhelming feeling of guilt and regret, forcing its way through the chaos that surrounds you and then there is...\n\nYour sight fails you. For that matter, you don't know if your eyes are opened or closed. Concepts like time and place have no meaning here. Your mind attempts to impose something, some order, some structure, upon the space in which you exist, and fails. There is only the void. For all you know, that is all there ever was.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "There is only Nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "There is only Nothing.\n\nNo, wait. There is ... something, moving in the darkness. It dances at the edge of your new-found vision, teasing you.\n\nNo, you were wrong...\n\nThere is only Nothing.\n\n\n\nTimothy Hunter was born, he lived, he died.\n\nThis was only natural, being mortal. The life he led was probably most unusual in its normalcy; his childhood so much so as to be mundane. Neither praised nor reviled, neither a leader nor an outcast, he was simply another face in the crowd. He went to school, he studied, he did well enough to get by. After graduation he found a job he was good at and paid well enough. He bought a little house and lived there, a bother to no one, and the days just flowed one into the other...\n\nIn fact, the first event of any importance in his life was the death of his mother.\n\nShe had been ill for quite a while, and during this time, Timothy was under a great deal of stress. His small, comfortable world fell apart around him as he realized that something had ended; an innocent part of his life where he had thought she would always be with him was over.\n\nThe Thompson account had totally slipped his mind, and he had been frantically trying to finish it when he heard the news that she was dying. An hour they gave her at the most. Faced with the agonizing choice of being with her in her final moments on this earth, or helping the Thompson's from losing everything they had, he chose to go to City Hall to get the papers that were necessary signed.\n\nAs quickly as he could, he rushed to his mother's side, only to realize it was to late. The guilt and self-loathing he felt for what he thought to be abandoning her were terrible. It took him a long time to realize that it was probably what his mother would have wanted him to do. He had stayed with her as much as he could when she was alive, had checked up on her at every opportunity, and the Thompsons had a great deal more to lose than she. He was very glad that he had a last opportunity to say farewell to her at the funeral. He knew she understood.\n\nThe time after his mother's death was a lonely one for Timothy, perhaps because, for the first time, he realized he was truly alone. Then, he met Sarah, and everything changed. She was so loving, so full of life, so willing to drag him from the small, empty world he had built for himself. They complemented each other so well: her spontaneity to his structure, her boundless energy to his complacency. Their whirlwind romance caught him totally unawares, and when she accepted his proposal of marriage, he thought himself the happiest man on earth.\n\nTruly, their first five years together were the happiest time of his life. The experience of having his life so intricately tied to another was exhiliarating; he built his entire existence around her.\n\nWhich is why her falling ill struck him so hard.\n\nIt was agonizing for Timothy to see her wasting away. \"Apentrylic Syndrome\" they called it, a metabolic disorder carried in a recessive gene. There wasn't a cure, they told him, and they didn't think she'd last more than a year.\n\nThey were wrong. For five years, Timothy watched his wife slowly rotting away from the inside. Her energy faded, her strength tapped away. The woman who had filled his life with motion and vitality now could barely lift her head to take the countless pills the doctors prescribed. But she never complained, she never once told him how much pain she was in, how tired she was. But Timothy knew just the same.\n\nAfter five years, it seemed as though it would never end. Not wishing to see her suffer further, not understanding why she had to continue such an agonized existence, he tried his best to help her. Putting her to sleep, he smothered her, praying that her death had been peaceful and painless. There was never any investigation of her death, the report said she died in her sleep.\n\nThe guilt of Sarah's death on his hands was horrible for Timothy, especially in the face of a possible cure. Facing his fears and his guilt, Timothy forced himself to face his wife's suffering, to realize that he had helped her in the best way he knew how, and that he hoped she would understand why he had done it. When he found a final note among Sarah's possessions, he knew she had.\n\nThe time after Sarah's death was much like it had been before his mother's; his life mundane, his existence centered around his work. But Timothy's experiences irrevocably changed him; he was no longer the same man. Timothy thought a great deal of his life, of what he'd seen and what he had done. It seemed so unfair that bad things happened again and again to good people. Some nights he would go driving, trying to ease his mind, trying to find an answer to a question he couldn't formulate.\n\nThe night he died he had been driving for hours, hardly aware of the world around him. When the young girl came flailing into the middle of the street, it was too late to stop in time. Both of them were killed instantly.\n\nIt turned out that the young woman had been arguing with her boyfriend, and in a struggle, had half been pushed, half pushed herself into the road.\n\nTimothy Hunter was born, he lived, he died. To say anything more would be futile speculation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Tapestry", "response": "A large, intricately woven tapestry which depicts three tableaus on three different panels.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the torch", "response": "A torch made of pure ivory, with three silver rings up its length.\n\n\"But here, I have not even introduced myself. Forgive me,\" he says, bowing with a flourish. \"I am ... Morningstar.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lucifer", "response": "A voice in your ear remarks, \"So educated.\"\n\nMorningstar looks away from you for a moment.\n\n\"Know now, mortal, that your life is over. You no longer are counted among the living, but you are not yet among the dead. Know thyself, Timothy Hunter, and know that because of your actions in life and what has just happened at the moment of your death, the fate of your soul is in doubt.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pendant", "response": "Morningstar watches you reaching out for the pendant in shock. Just as you are about to take it, he grasps your hand in an iron grip.\n\n\"What are you doing?\" he whispers. He stares at the pendant for a moment, his face blank.\n\n\"You can see this?\" he whispers to you. You can only no dumbly. He suddenly recovers himself.\n\n\"It is unimportant, Timothy. Pay attention to matters of more import.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break pendant", "response": "And what would that accomplish?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the pendant", "response": "(first taking the Morningstar's silver pendant)\n\"I told you that was unimportant, mortal,\" Morningstar growls. \"Leave it be.\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Slice of life" ]

[ "animal protagonist", "cover art", "cute", "dog", "IF Competition 2008", "IFComp Game", "kid-friendly", "nonhuman protagonist", "parser", "recommended for children", "television", "Xyzzy Awards 2008", "XYZZY Best Individual PC" ]

[ 8, 25, 22, 3, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "<RRROWWGRROWL> Your stomach growls.\n\nYou've been vegging out in front of that flickering screen for hours, your pet by your side. Now your complaining stomach sets you up on your feet, and on a mission.\nSnack Time!\nAn Interactive Break for a Bite\n\n(For more information please type ABOUT)\n\nThis is the room where you sit a lot. Well, you sleep here sometimes too. But there is a different room that is just for sleeping, and it is to the north. There's another room to the west. It's the room with the food. That is a good room.\n\nEven though this is the sitting room you can't sit on everything. There are a lot of \"no\"s here, like the thing you can't scratch, and the tall thing and the four-legged thing that isn't alive but that stands still with the box of light on its back.\n\nYour pet is here, all stretched out on the long soft thing and snoring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pet", "response": "He's not very hairy, poor thing, so he has to cover up to stay warm. But he is good at tricks like standing up on his hind legs and putting together tasty foods.\n\nRight now he's sleeping with his arm hanging over the side of the long soft thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're short and stocky, and, to be honest, rather hairy. You're also rather hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tall thing", "response": "It almost could touch the ceiling if it would stand on its hind legs which it doesn't seem to be able to do. Maybe if it weren't weighed down with all that stuff it holds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine can'T scratch", "response": "Well, really you can't scratch any of the things inside the house. But your pet seemed especially emphatic about this one when you tried it. Which is a shame, because it smells like something to scratch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell can'T scratch", "response": "It smells itchy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the couch", "response": "On the long soft thing are a bunch of smaller soft things that together make up a comfy place for sitting or sleeping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "If this were alive, it would be one patient animal to stand so still all the time. But you're pretty sure it's not alive. Anyway you've never seen it move, even when the box of light it holds gets really loud and unpleasant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tv", "response": "Sometimes the box sleeps but a lot of the time it is loud and noisy and bright. Sometimes you've seen things like the outside inside it or yummy-looking food or even little dogs in there. But everything is the wrong size and doesn't smell right, so you're not sure what that's about.\n\nRight now it looks like some little people inside are yapping at each other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "Right now you aren't carrying anything. (It's not like you need a lot of stuff, anyway.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're short and stocky, and, to be honest, rather hairy. You're also rather hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're hungry now, remember? Not sleepy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Food room, glorious food room!\n\nYour bowl for food and water is here, but that's only the beginning. There's also a lot of secret places where your pet keeps food and things that go with food and things that make food better. There's a thing that gets hot and a box that stays cold, and that is your favorite because you know there is always food inside there. A cloth hangs down from the door of the cold box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cloth", "response": "This is a good trick!\n\nYou pull on the cloth with your teeth and back up as the door opens. Inside you can see various leftovers, some jars, some sandwich fixings and one shiny can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shiny can", "response": "It's shiny and filled with some liquid that your pet really likes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the leftovers", "response": "Sometimes your pet makes something and saves some of it in the cold box to see how long it takes to grow fuzzy stuff on it. It's an interesting experiment, but not much good to you when you are hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sandwich fixings", "response": "All the food in the cold box is up too high for you or closed away. Looks like you will need your pet to help you get a snack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cloth", "response": "This cloth is wrapped around part of the cold box door that sticks out for pulling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bowl", "response": "Your bowl has two sides, one for food and one for water. Right now both spots are empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake pet", "response": "That's a good idea. Maybe if you make some noise or disturb him somehow he would wake up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bark", "response": "You try a few short, sharp barks.\n\nYour pet gets one eye open and half-heartedly pets at you. You're making progress.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bark", "response": "You try a few short, sharp barks.\n\nHmm, your pet seems to have turned that into part of his dream or something, because he sure didn't move this time when you barked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bite him", "response": "You love your pet too much to bite him!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick pet", "response": "You love on your pet with some little licks.\n\nYour pet shifts and stretches, blinking. He moves around until he is mostly sitting up.\n\n\"Hey Hardy,\" he mumbles.\n\nIt might take a little more to get him up and moving, but at least now his eyes are open!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bark", "response": "You try a few short, sharp barks.\n\nYour pet says, \"Shh, Hardy, it's OK.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You lean back on your haunches, ready yourself, and... jump! Sure, it was just a little jump, but it's not like you're a rabbit or something jumpy like that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whine", "response": "You have tried many times and many ways to get your pet to understand you. But no matter how you vocalize, he just doesn't get it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the pet", "response": "You carefully use your teeth to get a hold of your pet's arm and pull it towards you.\n\nYour pet pulls away from you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bowl", "response": "The bowl is set up in a frame to make it just as tall as your face. The frame makes it easier to eat and drink from, but it also makes it heavy and stuck in one place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick pet", "response": "You love on your pet with some little licks.\n\nHe smiles down at you and gives you a little head pat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the couch", "response": "You climb up unto the long soft thing, happy that it is low enough for you to get on all by yourself.\n\nOn the long soft thing are a bunch of smaller soft things that together make up a comfy place for sitting or sleeping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cushions", "response": "These smaller soft things make up the long soft thing. Sometimes they must get hungry because they try to eat things that get left on the long soft thing. Sometimes they get separated from the long soft thing. But mostly they just all hang out together. They must be friends.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're hungry now, remember? Not sleepy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cushion", "response": "You tug and pull at the little soft things until finally one breaks free from the bunch. As you dislodge it, something clatters to the floor. Ah ha! You've found the magic wand! Those little soft things were trying to eat it!\n\n\"So that's where that got away to,\" says your pet, snatching up the magic wand. He points it at the box of light and makes it even louder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You'll have to get off the long soft thing first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You get off the long soft thing.\n\nYour pet is here, staring at the box of light, holding on tight to the magic wand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the cushion", "response": "You release your hold and let the square soft thing fall down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Your pet is here, staring at the box of light, holding on tight to the magic wand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wand", "response": "A magical, bumpy thing your pet uses to control the box of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the wand", "response": "Your pet likes to be in charge of the box of light. You don't have a chance with it as long as he's around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tv", "response": "Sometimes the box sleeps but a lot of the time it is loud and noisy and bright. Sometimes you've seen things like the outside inside it or yummy-looking food or even little dogs in there. But everything is the wrong size and doesn't smell right, so you're not sure what that's about.\n\nRight now it looks like some little people inside are yapping at each other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Most of the time when you are in here it is dark and quiet because that is the best way to sleep and this is the room made for sleeping. There is a high bed here that is not your bed although it is where you sleep usually to keep your pet company. The sitting room is south of here and the room with the water is to the west.\n\nYour low bed is here, looking all soft and cushy.\n\nDino is here!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the Dino", "response": "You stick your head under the bed for a closer look and discover... a sock! Your pet has probably been looking for this, since socks usually stick together. You wonder why this one ran away.\n\nThat's not tasty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sock", "response": "You snatch up the sock with your mouth and hold on tight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the high bed", "response": "The high bed is pretty comfy. It is up high because your pet has a hard time getting all the way down to the floor and back up again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the low bed", "response": "The low bed is round and soft and meant to make you comfy and cozy after you turn around in it three times and lie down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn around", "response": "You run around in a circle for a bit in a mad chase for your tail. But you can't quite get it. You never can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can go south to the sitting room or west to the water room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Your pet is here, staring at the box of light, holding on tight to the magic wand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sock to the pet", "response": "Your pet takes the sock from you and looks at it. \"Thanks, Hardy,\" he says, before dropping it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shake sock", "response": "You shake the sock for all you're worth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave sock", "response": "You look ridiculous waving the sock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chew sock", "response": "When you were younger, you used to chew on everything. Now you are more discriminate, saving your chewing for a few special things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell sock", "response": "It smells kinda clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Your low bed is here, looking all soft and cushy.\n\nDino is here!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is the room with a lot of water. There's water that sits in a bowl and there's water that falls from up high to fill up a bigger bowl and lots of times when your pet is in here you hear the sounds of water.\n\nThis room would be more fun if you liked water more. Anyway, you like the sleeping room to the east much better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sock in the bowl", "response": "What do you want to put things in: the small bowl or the large bowl?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Small", "response": "You drop the sock into the small bowl. It starts soaking up the water right away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sock", "response": "You snatch up the wet sock with your mouth and hold on tight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sock to the pet", "response": "Your pet takes the sock from you and looks at it. \"Ew, Hardy, what did you do to this?\" he says, dropping it quickly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bark", "response": "You try a few short, sharp barks.\n\nYour pet says, \"Shh, Hardy, it's OK.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scratch", "response": "You take a second to give yourself a quick scratch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shake", "response": "You mechanically hold out your paw for a shake. Feeling foolish, you put it back down again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You roll over", "response": "You roll over onto your back, kicking your feet up into the air. When it becomes apparent that no belly rubs are forthcoming, you get back up on your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play dead", "response": "You start by rolling over and then give your legs one last kick for drama. You let your tongue hang out and try to be as still as possible.\n\nYour pet doesn't seem impressed with your trick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sock", "response": "You snatch up the wet sock with your mouth and hold on tight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shake it", "response": "You shake the wet sock for all you're worth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the sock at the pet", "response": "You're more of a catcher than a thrower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "If this were alive, it would be one patient animal to stand so still all the time. But you're pretty sure it's not alive. Anyway you've never seen it move, even when the box of light it holds gets really loud and unpleasant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search sofa", "response": "You already pulled a square soft thing out of the bunch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You can see a square soft thing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bowl", "response": "(As you open your mouth, you drop the wet sock.)\n\nThe bowl is set up in a frame to make it just as tall as your face. The frame makes it easier to eat and drink from, but it also makes it heavy and stuck in one place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the frame", "response": "It's a heavy frame that holds your bowl at the perfect height.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cupboards", "response": "The secret places seem to be all flat like a wall of wood but then they magically open at your pet's touch to reveal food and stuff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cloth", "response": "You pull on the cloth with your teeth and back up as the door opens. Inside you can see various leftovers, some jars, some sandwich fixings and one shiny can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jars", "response": "Several jars and bottles of various things that always hang out in the cold box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine can", "response": "It's shiny and filled with some liquid that your pet really likes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get can", "response": "You snatch up the shiny can with your mouth and hold on tight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Before you leave the food room, you push the cold box door with your nose to close it. (It's important to conserve energy.)\n\nThis is the room where you sit a lot. Well, you sleep here sometimes too. But there is a different room that is just for sleeping, and it is to the north. There's another room to the west. It's the room with the food. That is a good room.\n\nEven though this is the sitting room you can't sit on everything. There are a lot of \"no\"s here, like the thing you can't scratch, and the tall thing and the four-legged thing that isn't alive but that stands still with the box of light on its back.\n\nYour pet is here, staring at the box of light, holding on tight to the magic wand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show can to pet", "response": "Your pet smiles as he reaches for the can. \"Good boy, Hardy,\" he says, scratching you behind the ears. Your tail starts wagging; you just can't help it. (You've always been a fool for a good behind-the-ears scratch.)\n\nThe can hisses with releasing air as the top pops, and then your pets takes a few good gulps. He must have been really thirsty, because soon he stands up and walks off to the other room.\n\nFrom the other room, you hear your pet banging around and yelling about the dino. Your pet must have almost tripped on it. He's always almost tripping on little stuff like that.\n\nAfter a second, you hear a click as the door to the water room closes. Now you have the long soft thing all to yourself!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the couch", "response": "You climb up unto the long soft thing, happy that it is low enough for you to get on all by yourself.\n\nOn the long soft thing are a bunch of smaller soft things that together make up a comfy place for sitting or sleeping. The magic wand is hanging out here too, even though it got eaten by the little soft things before. No hard feelings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the wand", "response": "You snatch up the magic wand with your mouth and hold on tight.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "You get off the long soft thing.\n\nThis is the room where you sit a lot. Well, you sleep here sometimes too. But there is a different room that is just for sleeping, and it is to the north. There's another room to the west. It's the room with the food. That is a good room.\n\nEven though this is the sitting room you can't sit on everything. There are a lot of \"no\"s here, like the thing you can't scratch, and the tall thing and the four-legged thing that isn't alive but that stands still with the box of light on its back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "Once again you chomp down to change what's inside the box. This time there are these guys poking at each other, kinda fighting and joking around and all.\n\nThis is the sort of thing your pet seems to enjoy watching sometimes, people getting hit with food and slipping and falling down and stuff. Everybody is laughing and nobody ever seems to really get hurt, so you guess it's OK.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "You've got the hang of this trick now for sure! One more bite on the wand brings up something new.\n\nThis is more like it! Inside the box now is this lady putting together some tasty looking food! You're almost drooling just watching. This has got to make your pet think about eating!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the wand", "response": "You release your hold and let the magic wand fall down.\n\nYou finally hear a familiar rush of water from the little water room and, after a second, the sound of the door opening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You pause for a second. Your stomach growls.\n\nFrom the other room, you hear your pet banging around and yelling about the dino. Your pet must have almost tripped on it. He's always almost tripping on little stuff like that.\n\nYour pet walks in. He starts to sit down on the long soft thing but stops when he sees what's in the box of light. That lady cooking is doing her job! You pet stands and watches, transfixed. He must be thinking of food!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "You pause for a second. Your stomach growls.\n\nYour pet almost trips on the magic wand, sending it flying right at you!\n\nYour pet makes his way to the food room.\n\nYour pet starts rattling around in the food room. Yes! He must be making a snack!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Most of the time when you are in here it is dark and quiet because that is the best way to sleep and this is the room made for sleeping. There is a high bed here that is not your bed although it is where you sleep usually to keep your pet company. The sitting room is south of here and the room with the water is to the west.\n\nYour low bed is here, looking all soft and cushy.\n\nDino is here!\n\nFrom the other room you can hear the happy sound of the cold box being opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Food room, glorious food room!\n\nYour bowl for food and water is here, but that's only the beginning. There's also a lot of secret places where your pet keeps food and things that go with food and things that make food better. There's a thing that gets hot and a box that stays cold, and that is your favorite because you know there is always food inside there. A cloth hangs down from the door of the cold box.\n\nYour pet is here, working on making a snack.\n\nYou can also see a wet sock and a square soft thing here.\n\nYour pet looks in the cold box and stands for a moment staring at the contents. Then he starts taking out some of the sandwich fixings!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bark", "response": "You try a few short, sharp barks.\n\nYour pet says, \"Shh, Hardy, it's OK.\"\n\nNow, with that magic touch, your pet starts going through the secret places, opening and closing them as he finds what he needs to make a sandwich.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell sandwich", "response": "You sniff around a bit but all the smells are normal.\n\nOne by one, your pet starts pulling the sandwich fixings out of the cold box and turning them into a sandwich.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cold box", "response": "The cold box hums softly. It must be happy because it has a lot of food inside it. That always makes you happy.\n\nRight now it's open and blasting you with cold air. Inside you can see various leftovers, some jars and some sandwich fixings.\n\nYour pet starts putting stuff away and soon closes the cold box. You're sure that in just a minute he will be taking the sandwich out to the sitting room to eat it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You roll over", "response": "You roll over onto your back, kicking your feet up into the air. When it becomes apparent that no belly rubs are forthcoming, you get back up on your feet.\n\nYour pet seems to have finished cleaning up after making the snack. He turns to leave. Now is the moment of truth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Beg", "response": "You sit up with your paws in front of you and try to look pitiful.\n\n\"OK, Hardy,\" says your pet, tossing you a nibble of the sandwich fixings. You gobble it up right away. Such a tease! It makes you want a sandwich even more!\n\nSandwich in hand, your pet heads for the sitting room.\n\nYou follow your pet as he makes his way to the long soft thing and starts munching away on the sandwich. In a moment, it is gone, along with your dream of the perfect snack. Looks like you'll have to wait until dinner to eat. Poor hungry puppy!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Food room, glorious food room!\n\nYour bowl for food and water is here, but that's only the beginning. There's also a lot of secret places where your pet keeps food and things that go with food and things that make food better. There's a thing that gets hot and a box that stays cold, and that is your favorite because you know there is always food inside there. A cloth hangs down from the door of the cold box.\n\nYour pet is here, working on making a snack.\n\nYou can also see a wet sock and a square soft thing here.\n\nYour pet looks in the cold box and stands for a moment staring at the contents. Then he starts taking out some of the sandwich fixings!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Dino", "response": "You snatch up the dino with your mouth and hold on tight.\n\nFrom the other room you can hear the sound of secret places opening and closing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is the room where you sit a lot. Well, you sleep here sometimes too. But there is a different room that is just for sleeping, and it is to the north. There's another room to the west. It's the room with the food. That is a good room.\n\nEven though this is the sitting room you can't sit on everything. There are a lot of \"no\"s here, like the thing you can't scratch, and the tall thing and the four-legged thing that isn't alive but that stands still with the box of light on its back.\n\nYou can see a magic wand here.\n\nYou don't hear anything from the food room. But then, making a sandwich is not a very noisy job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Food room, glorious food room!\n\nYour bowl for food and water is here, but that's only the beginning. There's also a lot of secret places where your pet keeps food and things that go with food and things that make food better. There's a thing that gets hot and a box that stays cold, and that is your favorite because you know there is always food inside there.\n\nThe door is open and cold air is coming out of the box.\n\nYour pet is here, working on making a snack.\n\nYou can also see a wet sock and a square soft thing here.\n\nOne by one, your pet starts pulling the sandwich fixings out of the cold box and turning them into a sandwich.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop Dino", "response": "You know, leaving the dino here puts it in just the right spot for tripping your pet when he tries to walk out with the sandwich. What a great trick!\n\nYour pet starts putting stuff away and soon closes the cold box. You're sure that in just a minute he will be taking the sandwich out to the sitting room to eat it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You pause for a second. Your stomach growls.\n\nYour pet seems to have finished cleaning up after making the snack. He turns to leave. Now is the moment of truth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "You pause for a second. Your stomach growls.\n\nSandwich in hand, your pet heads for the sitting room.\n\nBusy taking a bite of the sandwich, your pet doesn't see the dino underfoot, and is soon airborne. For a moment, everything seems to slow down as if time has almost stopped. You can see it all clearly: your flailing pet, the sandwich sailing out of his hand, your chance for your snack. With one giant leap, you rise to meet the snack of your dreams, snatching it out of the air and wolfing it down in one great gulp. Yum! It was an awesome sandwich!\n\nAs your pet falls, he manages to land on the square soft thing. Picking himself up, he shakes his head at you. \"Wow, Hardy,\" he laughs, \"you must have wanted that sandwich bad. Guess I'll be making another one for me.\"\n\nYou're sure glad your pet has a sense of humor. You lick your chops happily. And wonder what's for dinner...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick pet", "response": "Snack Time!\nAn Interactive Break for a Bite\n\n(For more information please type ABOUT)\n\nThis is the room where you sit a lot. Well, you sleep here sometimes too. But there is a different room that is just for sleeping, and it is to the north. There's another room to the west. It's the room with the food. That is a good room.\n\nEven though this is the sitting room you can't sit on everything. There are a lot of \"no\"s here, like the thing you can't scratch, and the tall thing and the four-legged thing that isn't alive but that stands still with the box of light on its back.\n\nYour pet is here, all stretched out on the long soft thing and snoring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick pet", "response": "You love on your pet with some little licks.\n\nYour pet twitches a little and stirs, then is still again. It's a start at waking him up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "You love on your pet with some little licks.\n\nHmm, your pet seems to have turned that into part of his dream or something, because he sure didn't move this time when you licked him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Food room, glorious food room!\n\nYour bowl for food and water is here, but that's only the beginning. There's also a lot of secret places where your pet keeps food and things that go with food and things that make food better. There's a thing that gets hot and a box that stays cold, and that is your favorite because you know there is always food inside there. A cloth hangs down from the door of the cold box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cloth", "response": "This is a good trick!\n\nYou pull on the cloth with your teeth and back up as the door opens. Inside you can see various leftovers, some jars, some sandwich fixings and one shiny can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shake can", "response": "You shake the can for all you're worth. That should make it nice and fizzy inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Before you leave the food room, you push the cold box door with your nose to close it. (It's important to conserve energy.)\n\nYour pet is here, blinking and staring, not yet fully awake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the can to the pet", "response": "Your pet smiles as he reaches for the can. \"Good boy, Hardy,\" he says, scratching you behind the ears. Your tail starts wagging; you just can't help it. (You've always been a fool for a good behind-the-ears scratch.)\n\nAs your pet pops the top, the liquid starts spouting out in a big rush and getting all over your pet. He jumps up, yelling, and runs off.\n\nFrom the other room, you hear your pet banging around and yelling about the dino. Your pet must have almost tripped on it. He's always almost tripping on little stuff like that.\n\nAfter a second, you hear the water room door slam. Well, that was one way to get your pet off the long soft thing!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "<RRROWWGRROWL> Your stomach growls.\n\nYou've been vegging out in front of that flickering screen for hours, your pet by your side. Now your complaining stomach sets you up on your feet, and on a mission.\nSnack Time!\nAn Interactive Break for a Bite\n\n(For more information please type ABOUT)\n\nThis is the room where you sit a lot. Well, you sleep here sometimes too. But there is a different room that is just for sleeping, and it is to the north. There's another room to the west. It's the room with the food. That is a good room.\n\nEven though this is the sitting room you can't sit on everything. There are a lot of \"no\"s here, like the thing you can't scratch, and the tall thing and the four-legged thing that isn't alive but that stands still with the box of light on its back.\n\nYour pet is here, all stretched out on the long soft thing and snoring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Food room, glorious food room!\n\nYour bowl for food and water is here, but that's only the beginning. There's also a lot of secret places where your pet keeps food and things that go with food and things that make food better. There's a thing that gets hot and a box that stays cold, and that is your favorite because you know there is always food inside there. A cloth hangs down from the door of the cold box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Most of the time when you are in here it is dark and quiet because that is the best way to sleep and this is the room made for sleeping. There is a high bed here that is not your bed although it is where you sleep usually to keep your pet company. The sitting room is south of here and the room with the water is to the west.\n\nYour low bed is here, looking all soft and cushy.\n\nDino is here!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "(the still water)\nYou lean in and take a nice, cool drink. Ahh!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the bigger bowl", "response": "You can't get in there without help. And anyway, you don't like it in there much.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Your low bed is here, looking all soft and cushy.\n\nDino is here!\n\nYour pet is here, all stretched out on the long soft thing and snoring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bite the hand", "response": "But that's the hand that gets you a snack!", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Afterlife" ]

[ "afterlife", "cover art", "dead protagonist", "Egypt", "Mythology", "on Jay Is Games", "poetry", "riddle", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 11, 6, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Suddenly...gradually...the sleep of death is pierced by a strange awakening...\n\n...the priest opening your mouth...\n\n...senses rushing back: taste, smell, sight, hearing, touch...\n\n...but not pain, not heat or cold, not quick emotion...\n\n...not breath...\n\n(Players new to interactive fiction may wish to type \"about\".)\n\nIt is pitch dark, and you can't see a thing.\nYou can feel that you are surrounded by cold metal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You feel...dead.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "It is pitch dark, and you can't see a thing.\nYou can feel that you are surrounded by cold metal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na papyrus scroll", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the metal", "response": "The darkness is complete, but nothing else feels quite like solid gold. It fits the shape of your body like...well, like a coffin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the scroll", "response": "Though it is dark, somehow you can read - or perhaps you merely recall reading in life - the first spell-song in the Book of the Dead: Cat Eyes.\n\nThe words of that song fill your mind, and now you sense the power behind them:\n\nTwin moons\nLight the way.\nBlack cat's eyes\nReveal runes;\nTurn night to day.\n\nThose lyrics call to mind a half-remembered melody.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing Cat Eyes", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Cat Eyes.\n\nIt is still pitch dark, but the darkness no longer hinders your vision.\n\nYour innermost coffin is fashioned of solid gold. Not bad!\n\nIn the Solid Gold Coffin you can see your body.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "A shadow of your former self, more or less literally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the body", "response": "Bound tight, protected with amulets, anointed with arcane oils: your body can rest safely here for eternity, though your own labors and dangers are not yet done.\n\nOr so you have always been told.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open Coffin", "response": "It is beyond your strength to open that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the body", "response": "Hundreds of protective amulets are still in place. Good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Coffin", "response": "Nothing else feels quite like solid gold.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Your innermost coffin is fashioned of solid gold. Not bad!\n\nIn the Solid Gold Coffin you can see your body.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine scroll", "response": "It is a Book of the Dead, a richly illustrated grimoire, teaching spell-songs reputed to be of aid to the newly deceased in their eldritch travels. This one is dedicated to you and titled The Book of Songs of Getting Through The Day.\n\nWhat could that mean?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the scroll", "response": "The Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day is a richly illustrated scroll on virgin papyrus; its chapters are spell-songs prepared to help you survive this most unusual day. As you read, you sense the power behind these ancient verses...\n\nTwin moons\nLight the way.\nBlack cat's eyes\nReveal runes;\nTurn night to day.\n\nWest of west\nFrom every tomb,\nEach soul marches\nTo its rest\nOr to its doom!\n\nOf a holy shrine\nRequires respect.\nHe who just ate\nAnd drank much wine\nThe doors reject.\n\nStar-gems flow\nIn your brazier;\nWhat a grand\nSkill you know,\nMaster Glazier!\n\nslips through a wood\nbathed in golden light\nUp or down a slope\nany way is good\nfeet as fleet as flight\n\nI closed myself\nOut of my own.\nBefore myself\nI beg myself:\nLeave myself alone.\n\nSand of the Nile\nHardens to stone;\nTime the betrayer\nHeld in denial:\nHardness is gone\n\nDays of your youth,\nTimes you regret,\nDon't like to face\nUnpleasant truth,\nSo you forget.\n\nDeep underground\nMining for gold\nDig ore with bare hands\nSpeak without sound\nTen thousand years old", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing gold digger", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Gold Digger.\n\nGold seems like such a yielding material....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open Coffin", "response": "Your hands pass through the Solid Gold Coffin, meeting no resistance.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "You get out of the Solid Gold Coffin.\n\nA dazzling inlaid mosaic of glass and gems covers the middle coffin.\n\nIn the Glass Mosaic Coffin you can see a Solid Gold Coffin.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Glass", "response": "A dazzling inlaid mosaic of glass and gems covers the middle coffin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing master glazier", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Master Glazier.\n\nYou sense how glass can flow like water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the Glass Mosaic Coffin.\n\nThe outer coffin is gold leaf over wood, richly embossed.\n\nIn the Gilt Cypress Coffin you can see a Glass Mosaic Coffin.\n\nThe mood of Master Glazier fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cypress", "response": "The outer coffin is gold leaf over wood, richly embossed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the golden forest runner", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Golden Forest Runner.\n\nYou feel nimble, like an antelope slipping through a wood bathed in golden light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the Gilt Cypress Coffin.\n\nA heavy block of quartzite carved into a burial vessel. The heavy, close-fitting lid seals out time.\n\nIn the Quartzite Sarcophagus you can see a Gilt Cypress Coffin.\n\nThe mood of Golden Forest Runner fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing letting myself come through", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Letting Myself Come Through.\n\nYou feel a strange sympathetic awareness from somewhere nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the sandstone sifter", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Sandstone Sifter.\n\nSandstone - even quartzite - feels just like loose sand to you.\n\nThe mood of Letting Myself Come Through fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the Quartzite Sarcophagus.\n\nA sturdy vault to guard your body and its royal adornments from thieves and drafts.\n\nIn the First Burial Shrine you can see a Quartzite Sarcophagus.\n\nThe mood of Sandstone Sifter fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine vault", "response": "A sturdy vault to guard your body and its royal adornments from thieves and drafts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing silent supplicant", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Silent Supplicant.\n\nYou feel fit to pass the threshold of a shrine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the First Burial Shrine.\n\nA sturdy vault to guard your body and its royal adornments from thieves and drafts.\n\nIn the Second Burial Shrine you can see a First Burial Shrine.\n\nThe haunting melody of Silent Supplicant lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You get out of the Second Burial Shrine.\n\nA sturdy vault to guard your body and its royal adornments from thieves and drafts.\n\nIn the Third Burial Shrine you can see a Second Burial Shrine.\n\nThe haunting melody of Silent Supplicant lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the Third Burial Shrine.\n\nA sturdy vault to guard your body and its royal adornments from thieves and drafts.\n\nIn the Fourth Burial Shrine you can see a Third Burial Shrine.\n\nThe haunting melody of Silent Supplicant lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You exit", "response": "You get out of the Fourth Burial Shrine.\n\nThis small stone chamber is nearly filled by your nested Burial Shrines. The walls are richly (if hastily) painted with scenes of your recent funeral. A wide gap in the stone leads east; a passage to the south is narrow and guarded by two stern stone statues of yourself. The west wall is carved with a false door: a shallow bas-relief simulation of an inviting archway leading to the perils and rewards of the afterlife.\n\nThe mood of Silent Supplicant fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paintings", "response": "The scenes are all too familiar: the body anointed and wrapped; the priest opening the mouth; the Ka rising, walking, taking up its true regalia, and departing the tomb at last: through the False Door that leads past challenges undreamed toward a promise of eternal rest.\n\nSeeing it in rich earth tones and bright gold brings back, somehow, corpse-memories of your embalming: The Grand Vizier wearing the Jackal-head himself to preside over your immortalization...then taking up the crook and flail, and declaring himself your heir and immediate successor to the throne! Typical! You feel a slow wave of anger...no, of envy: an itch to wield those royal implements again yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the statue", "response": "Two stone statues, in your own image, guard the narrow passage that separates your private chambers from the more public spaces of your tomb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine false Door", "response": "An inviting arch leading to the lands west of life...but it is merely carved stone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The twin statues stoically bar your way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing letting myself come through", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Letting Myself Come Through.\n\nThe statues guarding the door to the south turn their expressionless faces toward you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The statues gravely let you pass.\n\nThis chamber is smooth bare stone. Two stone statues guard the narrow passage to the north; rough rectangular holes in the stone lead east and west.\n\nYour Coronation Crook lies abandoned in the dust.\n\nThe mood of Letting Myself Come Through fades.\nThe statues no longer seem aware of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Crook", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "This is the royal crook you used at your coronation.\n\nWhy was it taken from its case? Why was it cast aside in the outer tomb? Such disrespect for a god-king's symbol of authority seems unthinkable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Coronation Crook\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This crude corridor leads west into your tomb - which already feels like home. To the east, the stairs that led here from the world of the living are sealed off above by thick stone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This chamber is smooth bare stone. Two stone statues guard the narrow passage to the north; rough rectangular holes in the stone lead east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This crude hollow holds more of your worldly goods. None seems to matter much now. The only break in the walls leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the goods", "response": "These things seem to have been disturbed, then hastily straightened. You sense that items are missing that ought to be here. Rage takes you for a moment, but it flows slowly, like cold mud, not the familiar hot fire of living anger. Has my grave, then, been robbed by the very men hand-picked to seal it? What use are amulets? what use are tombs? a cat may look at us, but where is safety in the world, when an undertaker may rob a king?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stone", "response": "Yesterday those stairs led here from the living world. Now they lead nowhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing Sandstone", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Sandstone Sifter.\n\nSandstone - even quartzite - feels just like loose sand to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe mood of Sandstone Sifter fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the lost Memories", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Lost Memories.\n\nThe song evokes a mood of long ago, but nothing you see here sparks a particular memory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This chamber is smooth bare stone. Two stone statues guard the narrow passage to the north; rough rectangular holes in the stone lead east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This crude hollow holds more of your worldly goods. None seems to matter much now. The only break in the walls leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing letting myself", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Letting Myself Come Through.\n\nThe statues guarding the door to the north turn their expressionless faces toward you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The statues gravely let you pass.\n\nThis small stone chamber is nearly filled by your nested Burial Shrines. The walls are richly (if hastily) painted with scenes of your recent funeral. A wide gap in the stone leads east; a passage to the south is narrow and guarded by two stern stone statues of yourself. The west wall is carved with a false door: a shallow bas-relief simulation of an inviting archway leading to the perils and rewards of the afterlife.\n\nThe mood of Letting Myself Come Through fades.\nThe statues no longer seem aware of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the lost Memories", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Lost Memories.\n\nThe song evokes a mood of long ago. But you find yourself staring at the painted walls, reminded of something more recent....\n\nThe scenes are all too familiar: the body anointed and wrapped; the priest opening the mouth; the Ka rising, walking, taking up its true regalia, and departing the tomb at last: through the False Door that leads past challenges undreamed toward a promise of eternal rest.\n\nSeeing it in rich earth tones and bright gold brings back, somehow, corpse-memories of your embalming: The Grand Vizier wearing the Jackal-head himself to preside over your immortalization...then taking up the crook and flail, and declaring himself your heir and immediate successor to the throne! Typical! You feel a slow wave of anger...no, of envy: an itch to wield those royal implements again yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "This chamber is dominated by a grim statue of Anubis, judge of the newly dead, in jackal form. Around it are arrayed a decade's worth of kingly gifts. Little of it seems to matter much now. On the other hand, your Canopic Shrine and Sceptre Case are here, too. A wide gap in the west wall is the only exit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open Case", "response": "You open your Sceptre Case, revealing your replacement Coronation Flail, an Impolitic Spare Crook, a Large Paternal Crook, and a Large Paternal Flail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Anubis", "response": "The statue's grim visage seems to reserve judgment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Shrine", "response": "A sturdy vault for your most fragile internal organs. External, now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the coronation flail", "response": "This royal Flail looks just like the one you were given for your coronation...almost. But no: it lacks your cartouche. It is a replica, a fake! Now - now that you're dead - somehow you can't remember what that could mean, but it makes you uneasy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at paternal", "response": "Which do you mean, the Large Paternal Crook, or the Large Paternal Flail?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Flail", "response": "This is your father's best ceremonial flail: now your prized heirloom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paternal Crook", "response": "This is your father's best ceremonial crook: now your cherished heirloom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine impolitic Crook", "response": "This is a spare ceremonial crook you have never used. It was a gift from an unpopular functionary whose favor you dared not acknowledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "your replacement Coronation Flail: Taken.\nImpolitic Spare Crook: Taken.\nLarge Paternal Crook: Taken.\nLarge Paternal Flail: Taken.\nkingly gifts: None of these things interests you anymore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the jar", "response": "Your viscera are probably safest where they are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the lost Memories", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Lost Memories.\n\nThe song evokes a mood of long ago. Your glance catches on that subtly, naggingly inauthentic Coronation Flail, and suddenly a clear memory rushes back...\n\n...Your coronation. You were only nine...of course you were nervous. But god-kings are infallible, your father-friend warned you, and then had to explain his words: admit no mistakes today!\n\nYou prayed you would simply make no mistakes, but of course disaster struck almost immediately. During your solemn investiture ceremony, the Royal Flail, in your young, infallible hand, brushed against a nearby man, a faithful attendant.\n\nA trivial accident, caused by the slight shaking of your own nervous hand. But tradition says it is an offense against the gods for an attendant to touch a royal sceptre during such a ceremony, and the penalty is death....\n\nThe throne room where you've spent so much of your life this past decade...but as it looked to you the first time you saw it, as a child: rich and strange and big.\n\nThe blameless attendant is watching you, wide-eyed with fear.\n\nEveryone else is watching you both with concern, wondering if you will indeed condemn this faithful servant to death as your first official act.\n\nI must save this blameless man from my mistake, you remember thinking then, without taking the blame myself. But how?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You condemn yourself", "response": "My fault, you want to say, an accident! But a god-king can say no such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Royal Crook\nyour Royal Flail", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "The man watches you in terror; he was not at fault, but his brief contact with your sceptre is a death sentence only you can rescind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Flail", "response": "The Royal Flail represents your responsibility to separate the wheat from the chaff among your subjects. Too literally, today.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Crook", "response": "The royal Crook represents your responsibility to keep your flock from straying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the man with Crook", "response": "He shies back in horror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Condemn man", "response": "You feel a sudden pridefulness, and your fist grips the flail's handle. Let him die, then, and thereby prove my power! But you sense that this is not kingly wisdom, and suppress the confirming gesture.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You forgive man", "response": "Nervously, you favor the blameless attendant with the only gesture of royal forgiveness you can recall, though it is intended for less serious matters.\n\nThe tension in the room diminishes slightly. Your gesture helped, but it seems not to be enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hug man", "response": "The tension in the room diminishes slightly. Your gesture helped, but it seems not to be enough.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The throne room where you've spent so much of your life this past decade...but as it looked to you the first time you saw it, as a child: rich and strange and big.\n\nThe blameless attendant is watching you, wide-eyed with fear.\n\nEveryone else is watching you both with concern, wondering if you will indeed condemn this faithful servant to death as your first official act.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Young, alive, king: only in memory, alas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave crook", "response": "You look ridiculous waving your Royal Crook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave flail", "response": "You look ridiculous waving your Royal Flail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the man", "response": "You feel a sudden pridefulness, and your fist grips the flail's handle. Let him die, then, and thereby prove my power! But you sense that this is not kingly wisdom, and suppress the confirming gesture.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "The man watches you in terror; he was not at fault, but his brief contact with your sceptre is a death sentence only you can rescind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Sceptre", "response": "Which do you mean, the better flail, your Royal Crook, or your Royal Flail?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the lost Memories", "response": "Nervously you hum a half-remembered mnemonic chant, hoping to recall some forgotten ritual from your hasty training...\n\n...but all that comes to mind is your father in a rage, smashing his razor when it cut him...\n\n...the day he died.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The throne room where you've spent so much of your life this past decade...but as it looked to you the first time you saw it, as a child: rich and strange and big.\n\nThe blameless attendant is watching you, wide-eyed with fear.\n\nEveryone else is watching you both with concern, wondering if you will indeed condemn this faithful servant to death as your first official act.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bow to the man", "response": "Which do you mean, the better flail, your Royal Crook, or your Royal Flail?\n\nI only understood you as far as wanting to bow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smash better flail", "response": "Stupid flail! If a royal sceptre got broken, they'd have to bring another one, right?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This small stone chamber is nearly filled by your nested Burial Shrines. The walls are richly (if hastily) painted with scenes of your recent funeral. A wide gap in the stone leads east; a passage to the south is narrow and guarded by two stern stone statues of yourself. The west wall is carved with a false door: a shallow bas-relief simulation of an inviting archway leading to the perils and rewards of the afterlife.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing down under", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Down Under.\n\nThe false door opens, revealing a seemingly infinite series of arches leading west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "This chamber is dominated by a grim statue of Anubis, judge of the newly dead, in jackal form. Around it are arrayed a decade's worth of kingly gifts. Little of it seems to matter much now. On the other hand, your Canopic Shrine and Sceptre Case are here, too. A wide gap in the west wall is the only exit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Coronation Crook\na Large Paternal Flail\na Large Paternal Crook\nan Impolitic Spare Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put large paternal Flail in Case", "response": "You put the Large Paternal Flail into your Sceptre Case.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all but the replacement flail into Case", "response": "your Coronation Crook: Done.\nLarge Paternal Crook: Done.\nImpolitic Spare Crook: Done.\nBook of Songs of Getting Through the Day: You are reluctant to risk damaging the Book: it seems both useful and beautiful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This small stone chamber is nearly filled by your nested Burial Shrines. The walls are richly (if hastily) painted with scenes of your recent funeral. A wide gap in the stone leads east; a passage to the south is narrow and guarded by two stern stone statues of yourself.\n\nThe false door carved into the west wall has become a real archway, leading west into absolute darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You approach the arch that leads to the unknown lands west of life itself; but you hesitate. Looking around again at the somber paintings of this very moment on the burial chamber walls, you are suddenly homesick for mortality and kingship. You feel reluctant to leave your old life without some token, some remembrance...some talisman against the unknown challenges that lurk perhaps only a step beyond the arch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "With your best sceptres crossed protectively before you, you step out through the westward arch.\n\n...for an instant you percieve the universe as an infinity of arches. Each step in any direction is a step through another arch, into another world...\n\n...but even as the possibilities expand around you, the paths you have already walked fade away...\n\n...you feel, more than see, a distant glimpse of paradise; but an instant later it is wrapped...no, you are surrounded in layers of obscuring mist that solidify one by one around you: huge confusing shapes, each smaller and simpler than the one surrounding it, until you find yourself inside the simplest shape of all, still enormous, and dark....\n\nYou are in a large spherical vault of polished stone, black as night, though your feline vision reveals all. In the exact center a magnificent amulet of tremendous size hangs in the darkness: a spherical mosaic of emerald and lapis lazuli and brown jasper, perhaps thrice your height, and as far above you.\n\nSurely those gems lack their full glory in such darkness.\n\nA man-sized clockwork scarab is pushing a lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber. As the scarab chugs past you, crossing the low arc and heading up toward the east side of the spherical chamber, you catch a flickering glimpse of some strange mechanism inside the golden cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Here beyond the false door, you feel much more yourself than you did in your tomb. Still dead, though.\n\nThe sound of gears gets louder: now the clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "The scarab is pushing a man-high, lacy ball through the darkness: a spherical cage woven of fine gold wire. A strange mechanism is barely visible inside.\n\nNow the clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mechanism", "response": "From outside the wire ball, you can only tell that some small objects are woven into the wire near the center.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber. (In a moment it will pass you again as it crosses the bottom of the chamber.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the amulet", "response": "The mosaic is a map: you perceive that the jewelled globe is a map of the entire world, although the part you recognize as your own kingdom - marked by a small white obelisk - seems impossibly tiny.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the obelisk", "response": "A pyramid-capped square column, about the size of your thumb, carved from some fine-grained white stone. Fine inscriptions describe your nation's worth, but in no language you have ever seen.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ball", "response": "The scarab is pushing a man-high, lacy ball through the darkness: a spherical cage woven of fine gold wire. A strange mechanism is barely visible inside.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ball", "response": "The scarab is pushing a man-high, lacy ball through the darkness: a spherical cage woven of fine gold wire. A strange mechanism is barely visible inside.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber. (In a moment it will come within your reach again as it crosses the bottom of the chamber.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the scarab", "response": "The giant scarab beetle, finely crafted of copper and bronze, works its six leg-cams tirelessly along two thin grooves that circle this chamber. Between the polished plates of its carapace you can see gears turning inside.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Coronation Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch ball", "response": "The cage-ball is out of reach: the mechanical scarab is pushing it up the east arc of the chamber....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Crook in scarab", "response": "That can't contain things.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber. (In a moment it will come within your reach again as it crosses the bottom of the chamber.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ball", "response": "The cage-ball is out of reach: the mechanical scarab is pushing it down the west arc of the chamber....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump, but the jewelled globe remains out of your reach.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ball", "response": "That's too heavy to move.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are in a large spherical vault of polished stone, black as night, though your feline vision reveals all. In the exact center a magnificent amulet of tremendous size hangs in the darkness: a spherical mosaic of emerald and lapis lazuli and brown jasper, perhaps thrice your height, and as far above you.\n\nSurely those gems lack their full glory in such darkness.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gems", "response": "The mosaic is a map: you perceive that the jewelled globe is a map of the entire world, although the part you recognize as your own kingdom - marked by a small white obelisk - seems impossibly tiny.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber. (In a moment it will come within your reach again as it crosses the bottom of the chamber.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing cats eyes", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Cat Eyes.\n\nIt is still pitch dark, but the darkness no longer hinders your vision.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Coronation Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the lost Memories", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Lost Memories.\n\nThe song evokes a mood of long ago. You glance at your royal sceptres in doubt. These served me well for a decade, among men. But here amidst the machinery of the gods?\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber. (In a moment it will come within your reach again as it crosses the bottom of the chamber.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing gold digger", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Gold Digger.\n\nGold seems like such a yielding material....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mechanism", "response": "That is out of reach inside the cage-ball.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mechanism", "response": "From outside the wire ball, you can only tell that some small objects are woven into the wire near the center.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch ball", "response": "The scarab is pushing a man-high, lacy ball through the darkness: a spherical cage woven of fine gold wire. A strange mechanism is barely visible inside.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ball", "response": "That's too heavy to move.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scarab", "response": "The giant scarab beetle, finely crafted of copper and bronze, works its six leg-cams tirelessly along two thin grooves that circle this chamber. Between the polished plates of its carapace you can see gears turning inside.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the scarab", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ball", "response": "The cage-ball is out of reach: the mechanical scarab is pushing it up the east arc of the chamber....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing Gold", "response": "(Gold Digger)\nVoicelessly you voice Gold Digger.\n\nGold seems like such a yielding material....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ball", "response": "You slip through the yielding gold wire.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Solar Sphere (in the golden cage)\nYou are in a large spherical vault of polished stone, black as night, though your feline vision reveals all. In the exact center a magnificent amulet of tremendous size hangs in the darkness: a spherical mosaic of emerald and lapis lazuli and brown jasper, perhaps thrice your height, and as far above you.\n\nSurely those gems lack their full glory in such darkness.\n\nThe scarab is pushing a man-high, lacy ball through the darkness: a spherical cage woven of fine gold wire. Near the center a strange mechanism is woven into the wire.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mechanism", "response": "Simple, yet enigmatic. A metal framework - an outgrowth of the cage's wire lacework - suspends a few mechanical parts close together near the ball's center:\n\nA little spool, hanging from a pivot of twisted wire, with a leather strap wound several times around it and a square hole in the bottom.\n\nA hand's width below the hole in the spool, a cone of some unknown gray material, singed yellow-brown in the center.\n\nBeside the cone, a tiny bellows, like a smith's child's toy.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the spool", "response": "A little spool is woven into the mechanism such that it can spin. It is wrapped with a leather strap, and there is a small square hole in the spool's bottom face.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Press bellows", "response": "A fine mist sprays from the tiny bellows, blowing across the singed cone. A sharp, unfamiliar aroma fills the cage.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The golden cage isn't open.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell cone", "response": "The cone smells singed.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing lost", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Lost Memories.\n\nThe song evokes a mood of long ago. You glance at your royal sceptres in doubt. These served me well for a decade, among men. But here amidst the machinery of the gods?\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Solar Sphere (in the golden cage)\nYou are in a large spherical vault of polished stone, black as night, though your feline vision reveals all. In the exact center a magnificent amulet of tremendous size hangs in the darkness: a spherical mosaic of emerald and lapis lazuli and brown jasper, perhaps thrice your height, and as far above you.\n\nSurely those gems lack their full glory in such darkness.\n\nThe scarab is pushing a man-high, lacy ball through the darkness: a spherical cage woven of fine gold wire. Near the center a strange mechanism is woven into the wire.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mechanism", "response": "Simple, yet enigmatic. A metal framework - an outgrowth of the cage's wire lacework - suspends a few mechanical parts close together near the ball's center:\n\nA little spool, hanging from a pivot of twisted wire, with a leather strap wound several times around it and a square hole in the bottom.\n\nA hand's width below the hole in the spool, a cone of some unknown gray material, singed yellow-brown in the center.\n\nBeside the cone, a tiny bellows, like a smith's child's toy.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "Miniature Obelisk: You can't reach that from here.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the spool", "response": "A little spool is woven into the mechanism such that it can spin. It is wrapped with a leather strap, and there is a small square hole in the spool's bottom face.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cone", "response": "A rounded block of some hard gray substance, with a conical pit in the top. The cone is unevenly discolored.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the spool", "response": "That seems to be a part of the strange mechanism.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the leather", "response": "The strap is wrapped several times around the spool. Its free end is clearly a handle.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the strap", "response": "Pulling the strap spins the spool, fast. The strap pulls out of your hand and wraps itself around the spool again.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell cone", "response": "The cone smells singed.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bellows", "response": "It appears that pushing on the little bellows will puff its contents at the singed cone.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You squeeze bellows", "response": "A fine mist sprays from the tiny bellows, blowing across the singed cone. A sharp, unfamiliar aroma fills the cage.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell cone", "response": "The cone smells singed.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hole", "response": "A little spool is woven into the mechanism such that it can spin. It is wrapped with a leather strap, and there is a small square hole in the spool's bottom face.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Coronation Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Flail in the hole", "response": "That doesn't fit the hole in the spool.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Crook in the hole", "response": "That doesn't fit the hole in the spool.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the scroll in the hole", "response": "That doesn't fit the hole in the spool.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cone", "response": "That seems to be a part of the strange mechanism.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bellows", "response": "That seems to be a part of the strange mechanism.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the mechanism", "response": "That's too heavy to move.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing Gold", "response": "(Gold Digger)\nVoicelessly you voice Gold Digger.\n\nGold seems like such a yielding material....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "You slip through the yielding gold lace. As the ball is just rolling across the top of the chamber, you fall out and tumble down onto the jewelled globe.\n\nSolar Sphere (on the Jewelled Globe)\nYou are in a large spherical vault of polished stone, black as night, though your feline vision reveals all. In the exact center a magnificent amulet of tremendous size hangs in the darkness: a spherical mosaic of emerald and lapis lazuli and brown jasper.\n\nSurely those gems lack their full glory in such darkness.\n\nA miniature obelisk about the size of your thumb rests on the jewelled globe, marking your own capital city.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the obelisk", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "A pyramid-capped square column, about the size of your thumb, carved from some fine-grained white stone. Fine inscriptions describe your nation's worth, but in no language you have ever seen.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na Miniature Obelisk\nyour Coronation Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Solar Sphere (on the Jewelled Globe)\nYou are in a large spherical vault of polished stone, black as night, though your feline vision reveals all. In the exact center a magnificent amulet of tremendous size hangs in the darkness: a spherical mosaic of emerald and lapis lazuli and brown jasper.\n\nSurely those gems lack their full glory in such darkness.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the ball", "response": "The cage-ball is out of reach: the mechanical scarab is pushing it down the west arc of the chamber....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine", "response": "What do you want to examine?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing Gold", "response": "(Gold Digger)\nVoicelessly you voice Gold Digger.\n\nGold seems like such a yielding material....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ball", "response": "The cage-ball is out of reach: the mechanical scarab is pushing it down the west arc of the chamber....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing Gold", "response": "(Gold Digger)\nVoicelessly you voice Gold Digger.\n\nGold seems like such a yielding material....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter ball", "response": "(getting off the Jewelled Globe)\nYou slip through the yielding gold wire.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the Obelisk in the spool", "response": "The little obelisk fits firmly into the square hole in the spool.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull leather", "response": "Pulling the strap spins the spool, fast. The obelisk spins with it; its point whines against the singed cone, which begins to glow dull red.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its lacy metal ball down the west arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Press bellows", "response": "A fine mist sprays from the tiny bellows, blowing across the glowing cone. The mist becomes a spray of fire, and in an instant the wire of the cage is all aflame. The ball burns bright as the sun; its light scintillates among the lands of the jewelled globe.\n\nDawn has come.\n\nNear the west pole of this spherical chamber, the dawn-light reveals an arched doorway that was not there before this moment.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its fiery metal ball east along the bottom arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing Gold", "response": "(Gold Digger)\nVoicelessly you voice Gold Digger.\n\nGold seems like such a yielding material....\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its fiery metal ball up the east arc of the chamber with you inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You slip through the yielding gold lace. As the ball is rolling up the side of the chamber, you fall out and tumble back down to the low point.\n\nThe clockwork scarab is pushing its fiery metal ball west across the top arc of the chamber.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Confidently crossing your sceptres before you, you step out through the westward arch.\n\nThis chamber is a cube almost too big to see. A hole in the apex admits a single, broad beam of sunlight which stabs down to the floor, sparkling dust and making a bright circle on the floor, in the exact center of the dim space.\n\nIn the circle of light, a life-sized doll, finely crafted to resemble a learned old man, sits on a three-legged stool before a game board. Beneath his robes you can hear gears and flywheels whirring and ticking. His gaze follows you with uncanny smoothness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the game board", "response": "The game is Hounds and Jackals, but this is some complex variant you've never seen before. You have played on a small hand-held board, with two short trails of peg-holes mirrored side by side. But this is a large, elaborately carved oval table on a thin pedestal. It has separate, identical trails of peg-holes at each end of the oval; between them is a bowl shape holding two very large knucklebone dice. Each side's trail is criss-crossed with dozens of the short-cut paths that can so rapidly change a player's fortunes.\n\nSeven Jackal pegs wait in the starting holes beneath the clockwork sage's hand; seven Hound pegs wait in the starting holes at your side of the game board.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the game", "response": "You pick up the dice and throw...\n\n...the doll plays its side of the board with steely concentration, humming mechanically as it weighs its tactics...\n\n...you find you can adapt to the wildly complex board, but before long you are losing. The clockwork sage's silver fingers throw the knucklebones with musical precision; he knows the peg-paths like the back of his hand...\n\n...in fact, you see that the board's layout is indeed engraved upon the back of the doll's hand...\n\n...he exploits every opportunity and pulls ahead rapidly; at length your position seems completely hopeless. You study the board once more: the sage needs but one more indifferently lucky throw to bring home his last Jackal, while your Hounds would need at least a dozen turns to catch up...\n\n...it is your move, but it seems futile even to pick up the dice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing lost", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Lost Memories.\n\nThe song evokes a mood of long ago. You glance at your sceptres again in growing doubt. These served me well among men. But against a blind genius automaton?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dice", "response": "Dreading the result, you pick up the dice again...\n\n...sure enough, the mechanical master handily defeats you...\n\n...silently (but for a faint ticking) he begins to reset his pegs for a fresh game. Silently, you do the same.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This chamber is a cube almost too big to see. A hole in the apex admits a single, broad beam of sunlight which stabs down to the floor, sparkling dust and making a bright circle on the floor, in the exact center of the dim space.\n\nIn the circle of light, a life-sized doll, finely crafted to resemble a learned old man, sits on a three-legged stool before a game board. Beneath his robes you can hear gears and flywheels whirring and ticking. His gaze follows you with uncanny smoothness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "A clockwork sage sits rigidly upon a three-legged stool, facing you across a game table. His skin is silver; his eyes sparkling jewels; his clothes dyed silk; even his sandals are solid gold. Within him you can hear fine machinery working; his gemstone gaze never leaves your face.\n\nThe clockwork sage's silver hand waits above the Jackal pegs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hand", "response": "That seems to be a part of the Clockwork Sage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing master glazier", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Master Glazier.\n\nYou sense how glass can flow like water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hounds", "response": "The game is Hounds and Jackals, but this is some complex variant you've never seen before. You have played on a small hand-held board, with two short trails of peg-holes mirrored side by side. But this is a large, elaborately carved oval table on a thin pedestal. It has separate, identical trails of peg-holes at each end of the oval; between them is a bowl shape holding two very large knucklebone dice. Each side's trail is criss-crossed with dozens of the short-cut paths that can so rapidly change a player's fortunes.\n\nSeven Jackal pegs wait in the starting holes beneath the clockwork sage's hand; seven Hound pegs wait in the starting holes at your side of the game board.\n\nThe mood of Master Glazier fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hand", "response": "The clockwork sage's silver hand waits above the Jackal pegs. The paths of the game board are engraved on the back of his hand. You try to imagine the sage becoming forgetful, stealing a quick glance at the diagram...\n\n...but the doll's gemstone gaze never leave your face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You look for an arch to the west, but it seems plain that you must first beat this automaton at his own game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dice", "response": "Knucklebones...big ones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Coronation Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play", "response": "You begin another game, briskly throwing the dice into the pit between the paths...\n\n...again you improve as you play...\n\n...but again the clockwork sage outpaces your best efforts, bringing you rapidly to the brink of defeat, his Jackal pegs all brought home but one, while your Hounds have barely left the foothills of their twisting path...\n\n...it is your move, but you seem to have little chance to win.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play", "response": "Gamely you roll again, but it is no use. Soon the Jackal pegs have their victory over your Hounds, and the doll sets them up for another game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the Jackals", "response": "The table rotates easily; now the sage's hand waits above the Hound pegs. He doesn't seem to care.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play", "response": "Yet again you pick up the dice...\n\n...your Jackal pegs set out on their journey...\n\n...you play more skillfully than ever, using every shortcut along the path...\n\n...but the machine sees no distractions, hears nothing, feels nothing...\n\n...his sense of the pegs is instinctual, ingrained. Engraved. You can gain no purchase against the doll's tactics...\n\n...and once again you find your Jackal pegs impossibly far behind the Hounds.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This chamber is a cube almost too big to see. A hole in the apex admits a single, broad beam of sunlight which stabs down to the floor, sparkling dust and making a bright circle on the floor, in the exact center of the dim space.\n\nIn the circle of light, a life-sized doll, finely crafted to resemble a learned old man, sits on a three-legged stool before a game board. Beneath his robes you can hear gears and flywheels whirring and ticking. His gaze follows you with uncanny smoothness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Eyes", "response": "Twin moons\nLight the way.\nBlack cat's eyes\nReveal runes;\nTurn night to day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "A clockwork sage sits rigidly upon a three-legged stool, facing you across a game table. His skin is silver; his eyes sparkling jewels; his clothes dyed silk; even his sandals are solid gold. Within him you can hear fine machinery working; his gemstone gaze never leaves your face.\n\nThe clockwork sage's silver hand waits above the Hound pegs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Hounds", "response": "You turn the table; now the sage's hand waits above the Jackal pegs. He doesn't seem to notice the difference; he is still waiting patiently for you to pick up the dice again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sandals", "response": "A clockwork sage sits rigidly upon a three-legged stool, facing you across a game table. His skin is silver; his eyes sparkling jewels; his clothes dyed silk; even his sandals are solid gold. Within him you can hear fine machinery working; his gemstone gaze never leaves your face.\n\nThe clockwork sage's silver hand waits above the Jackal pegs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play", "response": "You roll the bones again and easily bring \"your\" last peg home.\n\nThe doll sits back heavily on his three-legged stool, defeated.\n\nBeyond him, you notice an arch leading west; you are certain that it was not there until this moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You raise your crook and flail as you approach the westward arch, but you hesitate. Is that really necessary?\n\nYou lower the sceptres and step out through the arch.\n\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, red flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor. A quicksilver river flows through the middle of it; every few moments the landscape floods, becoming a perfect mirror just for an instant.\n\nThe liquid metal collects somewhere beneath the landscape at the northern corner, then recirculates by means of some pumping equipment near the southern edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mercury", "response": "The familiar life-giving river is represented by fast-flowing quicksilver, fed by some pumping equipment at the southern edge of the landscape.\n\nEvery few moments, the liquid metal river overflows its banks, filling the flood plain. For a breath, most of the landscape is a perfect mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pump", "response": "The miniature river is supplied by a waist-high water wheel at the southern edge. Hundreds of tiny cups are mounted all around the rim of this wheel. As it turns - motivated by a force you can't discern - the cups pour a continuous flow of liquid metal into the miniature river.\n\nNext to the water wheel is a shadouf: a lever arm with a scoop attached at one end, opposed by a counterweight at the other end. The arm rocks slowly up and down - motivated by no force you can discern - pouring an extra scoopful of quicksilver into the miniature river every few moments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shadouf", "response": "Next to the water wheel is a shadouf: a lever arm with a scoop attached at one end, opposed by a counterweight at the other end. The arm rocks slowly up and down - motivated by no force you can discern - pouring an extra scoopful of quicksilver into the miniature river every few moments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the counterweight", "response": "The shadouf stops moving when you take hold of it: it is easy to resist the gentle, mysterious impetus that drives it. The periodic flooding abates, of course.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "This chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, red flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor. A quicksilver river flows through the middle of it, fed by the slowly turning water wheel; while you hold the scoop-lever, the flow is steady and even.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na shadouf\nyour Coronation Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing Sandstone", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Sandstone Sifter.\n\nSandstone - even quartz - feels just like loose sand to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the counterweight", "response": "You release the shadouf. It slowly resumes moving.\n\nThe mood of Sandstone Sifter fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, red flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor. A quicksilver river flows through the middle of it; every few moments the landscape floods, becoming a perfect mirror just for an instant.\n\nThe liquid metal collects somewhere beneath the landscape at the northern corner, then recirculates by means of some pumping equipment near the southern edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flames", "response": "Far above you, at the center of the ceiling, a red fire blazes inside something crystalline.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the crystal", "response": "That is high above you, far out of reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop it", "response": "You release the shadouf. It slowly resumes moving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing lost", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Lost Memories.\n\nThe song evokes a mood of long ago. Your royal sceptres catch your eye once more, now seeming like something from a half-forgotten dream. A long-ignored memory rushes back...\n\nYour father's funeral. A stranger in an anubis mask, so frightening to you as a child. Endless attendants and functionaries. The old king's sceptres retired: their symbolic power extinguished like spent candles before they passed to you as mere heirlooms. And I took up my own soon after. His body shown, honored, then wrapped, anointed, sealed away...\n\nThe mood of Lost Memories fades.\n\nThe vision recedes, leaving you holding the sceptres up to the light. Perhaps it is time to be free of these mortal tools. You wonder how you might retire them respectfully in this alien place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the sceptres in the river", "response": "Which do you mean, your Coronation Crook, or your replacement Coronation Flail?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Crook", "response": "You dip your Coronation Crook into the quicksilver, but the liquid metal flows off again instantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Coronation Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wheel", "response": "The miniature river is supplied by a waist-high water wheel at the southern edge. Hundreds of tiny cups are mounted all around the rim of this wheel. As it turns - motivated by a force you can't discern - the cups pour a continuous flow of liquid metal into the miniature river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stop wheel", "response": "The water wheel stops moving when you take hold of it: it is easy to resist the gentle, mysterious impetus that drives it. Its supply interrupted, the river drains in an instant. Quicksilver lingers only in a complex series of grooves along the river-bed: schematic animals that you recognize after a moment: writing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the landscape", "response": "Might is rarely right:\nTemper law with love,\nReaping what you sow.\nDay becomes the night:\nAs it is above,\nSo it is below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing inversions", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Inversions.\n\nYou lose your grip on the wheel as the floor and ceiling seem to change places....\n\nThe Dodecahedron (on the ceiling)\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. Beside you on the ceiling, red flames blaze inside a glittering crystalline shell.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor, high above your head. Every few moments you can see yourself, walking on the ceiling, reflected in a flood of quicksilver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the crystal", "response": "That's fixed in place.\n\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the crystal", "response": "The shell around the fire is an angular box, clear as distilled water. It seems to be made of smooth-grown slabs of pure quartz crystal, grown together at the edges.\n\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing glazier", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Master Glazier.\n\nYou sense how glass can flow like water.\n\nThe mood of Inversions fades.\nThe ceiling and floor seem to change places....\n\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, red flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor. A quicksilver river flows through the middle of it; every few moments the landscape floods, becoming a perfect mirror just for an instant.\n\nThe liquid metal collects somewhere beneath the landscape at the northern corner, then recirculates by means of some pumping equipment near the southern edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing inversions", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Inversions.\n\nThe floor and ceiling seem to change places....\n\nThe Dodecahedron (on the ceiling)\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. Beside you on the ceiling, red flames blaze inside a glittering crystalline shell.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor, high above your head. Every few moments you can see yourself, walking on the ceiling, reflected in a flood of quicksilver.\n\nThe mood of Master Glazier fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing glazier", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Master Glazier.\n\nYou sense how glass can flow like water.\n\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take fire", "response": "The crystalline shell isn't open.\n\nThe mood of Master Glazier fades.\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crystal", "response": "The shell around the fire is an angular box, clear as distilled water. It seems to be made of smooth-grown slabs of pure quartz crystal, grown together at the edges.\n\nThe mood of Master Glazier fades.\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the shell", "response": "Your strength is insufficient to damage it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open crystal", "response": "The mood of Master Glazier fades.\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.\n\nIt is beyond your strength to open that.\n\nThe mood of Inversions fades.\nThe ceiling and floor seem to change places....\n\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, red flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor. A quicksilver river flows through the middle of it; every few moments the landscape floods, becoming a perfect mirror just for an instant.\n\nThe liquid metal collects somewhere beneath the landscape at the northern corner, then recirculates by means of some pumping equipment near the southern edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing inversions", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Inversions.\n\nThe floor and ceiling seem to change places....\n\nThe Dodecahedron (on the ceiling)\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. Beside you on the ceiling, red flames blaze inside a glittering crystalline shell.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor, high above your head. Every few moments you can see yourself, walking on the ceiling, reflected in a flood of quicksilver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing Sandstone", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Sandstone Sifter.\n\nSandstone - even quartz - feels just like loose sand to you.\n\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the shell", "response": "Your hands pass through the crystalline shell, meeting no resistance.\n\nThe mood of Sandstone Sifter fades.\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take fire", "response": "The crystalline shell isn't open.\n\nThe mood of Inversions fades.\nThe ceiling and floor seem to change places....\n\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, red flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor. A quicksilver river flows through the middle of it; every few moments the landscape floods, becoming a perfect mirror just for an instant.\n\nThe liquid metal collects somewhere beneath the landscape at the northern corner, then recirculates by means of some pumping equipment near the southern edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fire", "response": "The crystalline shell isn't open.\n\nThe mood of Sandstone Sifter fades.\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the shell", "response": "It is beyond your strength to open that.\n\nThe mood of Inversions fades.\nThe ceiling and floor seem to change places....\n\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, red flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor. A quicksilver river flows through the middle of it; every few moments the landscape floods, becoming a perfect mirror just for an instant.\n\nThe liquid metal collects somewhere beneath the landscape at the northern corner, then recirculates by means of some pumping equipment near the southern edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour Coronation Crook\nyour replacement Coronation Flail\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the fire", "response": "In the center of a shell of solid quartz crystal, red fire blazes out in all directions from something like a tangle of gold wire.\n\nThe mood of Sandstone Sifter fades.\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Crook in the fire", "response": "(first entering the crystalline shell)\nFire engulfs your Coronation Crook. It has served you well, but you feel rightly free of it now.\n\nThe fire darkens strangely as it consumes your Coronation Crook, the bright red flames turning to dark purple with fringes of black.\n\nThe mood of Sandstone Sifter fades.\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe mood of Inversions fades.\nThe ceiling and floor seem to change places....\n\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, purple flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor. A quicksilver river flows through the middle of it; every few moments the landscape floods, becoming a perfect mirror just for an instant.\n\nThe liquid metal collects somewhere beneath the landscape at the northern corner, then recirculates by means of some pumping equipment near the southern edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing inversions", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Inversions.\n\nThe floor and ceiling seem to change places....\n\nThe Dodecahedron (on the ceiling)\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. Beside you on the ceiling, purple flames blaze inside a glittering crystalline shell.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor, high above your head. Every few moments you can see yourself, walking on the ceiling, reflected in a flood of quicksilver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Flail in the fire", "response": "(first entering the crystalline shell)\nFire encloses your replacement Coronation Flail and darkens, darkens until the flames are black as night. Sparks like stars fly from the flame-tips, swirl within the shell, strike the crystal walls and fade. Darkness spreads throughout the chamber, reflected in polished copper and flowing quicksilver.\n\nYou feel the ending of a day of mysteries; a decade of rule; a lifetime of joys and pains. Now the sun has set on my reign. Let my successor have his day in the sun....\n\nThis time you almost see the westward arch flick into existence.\n\nThe mood of Sandstone Sifter fades.\nThe haunting melody of Inversions lingers in your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe mood of Inversions fades.\nThe ceiling and floor seem to change places....\n\nThis chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, black flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor, details shrouded by the black firelight.\n\nA serene arch leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "In a sudden whirr of metal sliding on metal, a clockwork lioness leaps from some unseen perch and blocks your way!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lioness", "response": "A lioness crafted of jointed plates of bronze, accented with precious stones. (The eyes are polished cat's-eye, of course.) You can hear gears purring inside its muscular chest.\n\nThe clockwork lioness returns your attention, redoubled. Something inside it spins faster and suddenly it speaks, in a voice like wet fingers stroking a dozen glass bowls:\n\nA king may look at a cat, but none may pass without answering my riddle:\n\nWhat is supported by six legs in the morning, five legs at midday, and four legs in the evening?\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lioness", "response": "A lioness crafted of jointed plates of bronze, accented with precious stones. (The eyes are polished cat's-eye, of course.) You can hear gears purring inside its muscular chest.\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The clockwork lioness steps firmly into your path with a growl of grinding gears. In musical tones it repeats its question: What is supported by six legs in the morning, five legs at midday, and four legs in the evening?\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing Gold", "response": "(Gold Digger)\nVoicelessly you voice Gold Digger.\n\nGold seems like such a yielding material....\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the lioness", "response": "You can't ride that.\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.\n\nThe mood of Gold Digger fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na Book of Songs of Getting Through the Day\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the lioness about the riddle", "response": "There is no reply.\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say yourself", "response": "(to the Clockwork Lioness)\nThe clockwork cat looks up abruptly, whirring. It bares its polished fangs, and shakes its head slightly before beginning to pace again.\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat lioness", "response": "(first taking the Clockwork Lioness)\nI don't suppose the Clockwork Lioness would care for that.\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "This chamber's walls, ceiling, and floor are a dozen identical copper tiles, pentagonal, huge, that meet at insane angles yet somehow fit seamlessly together into an angular ball shape. High above you, black flames blaze inside something crystalline; their flickering reflections redouble at every wall.\n\nThe lioness watches you impatiently.\n\nA marvelously detailed miniature landscape in carved ivory covers most of the floor, details shrouded by the black firelight.\n\nA serene arch leads west.\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing lost", "response": "Voicelessly you voice Lost Memories.\n\nThe song evokes a mood of long ago.\n\n...This feline construct surely reminds you of nothing else in your experience.\nBut something in her words seems familiar.\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say you", "response": "(to the Clockwork Lioness)\nThe cat stops pacing for a moment and stares at you. You hear gears spinning faster inside the bronze breastplate for a moment. It tilts its head back and forth, examining you from several angles. Confused? But after a moment it resumes pacing.\n\nThe feline device paces impatiently, waiting for your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say Clockwork", "response": "(to the Clockwork Lioness)\nThe cat looks up at you abruptly, then nods, satisfied, gears softly purring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bronze cat steps aside, and you step through the arch.\n\nYou feel your journey drawing to a close at last....\n\nThis grand hall is long and tall and white. Translucent marble columns march west, two by two, as far as you can see, seemingly lit from every side, and from within as well.\n\nHere your heart is to be weighed against the feather of truth and justice. (You knew it would come to this, sooner or later.)\n\nFar more glorious than the finest mask or statue, a living god stands before you: Anubis.\n\nAmmit, a legendary demon, menaces you from behind a large balance-scale.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Anubis", "response": "Not a jackal or a jackal-headed man, after all, but something new, combining and transcending the two forms. A god.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ammit", "response": "A horrid mix of three vicious beasts, the bone devourer watches you impatiently. She is slavering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine scale", "response": "Two large balance pans balance each other: one for the feather, one for your heart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the feather", "response": "The little white feather looks...very light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have mastered the inanimate playthings of the gods...but here among the living gods you are helpless. Before you can move, Anubis reaches into you, reaches through you...back into your tomb, your shrines, your coffins, your body!\n\nHe grips your heart! You cannot move!\n\nNow he steps back, holding your heart, red and vital, in his hand. You see it miss a beat in fear.\n\nNow he is placing it on a balance pan, opposite a diminutive feather.\n\nThe balance is tilting...rocking...settling...\n\nYour heart just balances the feather!", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Space Exploration" ]

[ "adaptive hints", "built-in hints", "desktop", "IF Competition 2005", "IFComp Game", "science fiction", "walkthrough" ]

[ 2, 5, 7, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You are on an abandoned planet again. Not content with almost killing you the last time, the Captain has delegated you again to investigate another out-of-contact colony. Apparently you impressed him with your survival instincts, by evading thousands of insect-like creatures before the ship finally sent down enough people to wipe them out. Maybe your job description should just be renamed as the Expendable Explorer. Unfortunately, you have no choice but to obey the Captain's orders.\n\nAn hour ago you were sent down into a thick jungle. When you made contact with the ship you found out that they had missed the clearing where you were supposed to land. The intervening hour was spent cutting through the energetic plant-life until you finally reached your destination.\n\nIt is time to start your investigation. One strange fact that you have already noticed is that there was no sign of any animals in the jungle.\n\nThis clearing used to be the site of a house, where a team of scientists, who were studying the planet, lived. This is no longer the case, as the house has burned down. The fire is probably the reason for the colony being out of contact, but you are not sure it is the whole reason, as something does not feel right here. The ashes from the house cover the ground, along with various twisted metal pieces. Weeds are popping up everywhere, as the jungle reclaims the area. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You look good in your new black all-purpose uniform. It's not surprising, as you always look good in your opinion. And as you keep telling yourself, your opinion is the only opinion that matters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na backpack (being worn and closed)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open backpack", "response": "You open the backpack, revealing five rations, a communicator and an utility tool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tool", "response": "This thin cylinder can turn into several useful tools by turning the dial on the end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dial", "response": "This dial changes the form of the utility tool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial", "response": "(first taking the utility tool)\nYou turn the dial and the utility tool turns into a shovel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "You turn the dial and the shovel turns into a scythe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "You turn the dial and the scythe turns into a utility tool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "You turn the dial and the utility tool turns into a shovel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the house", "response": "The remains of the house litter the area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ashes", "response": "The ashes from the burned down house are all over the ground in this clearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine weeds", "response": "There are weeds all around the area, growing in the remains of the house and clearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The ashes from the house only cover a small segment of this corner. Weeds and dirt patches cover most of the ground instead, with what looks like the remains of a garden. There is nothing left to tell what was growing here before the fire, as any crops have completely disappeared. Maybe the scientists were not very good gardeners, and there were no crops. However, you think that this is unlikely, as the crops they use on new colonies are virtually unkillable. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the south and west.\n\nAn abandoned metal table on wheels in the garden looks in poor condition, but still useable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "This metal table is not in good condition, as the top looks heavily dented and one of the wheels is missing. However, it has survived far more intact than anything else. It even looks like it can still be pushed around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the garden", "response": "The dirt patches look like they used to be a garden before the weeds took over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial", "response": "You turn the dial and the utility tool turns into a shovel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "A large tree dominates this section of the clearing, with a low hanging, yet out of reach, branch above where the house used to be. It would have been just above the roof of a one-storey section of the house. However, it is now only above ashes. This tree must be tough and strong to have survived the chemical process used to create a clearing. The chemicals are supposed to clear everything in preparation for the houses and gardens of any colonists. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the south and east.\n\nOn the branch you see a nest. This is the first sign of any animal life that you have seen. You wonder if it is empty like everywhere else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the nest", "response": "There must have been a bird here at some stage, but not anymore. It is at least a sign of animal life and maybe the nest is not empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "This tree is separate from the jungle at the moment, but will probably be integrated back in soon. A thick branch hangs over where the house used to be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the branch", "response": "This thick low hanging branch is right over where the house used to be. There is a nest on the branch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The ashes from the house only cover a small segment of this corner. Weeds and dirt patches cover most of the ground instead, with what looks like the remains of a garden. There is nothing left to tell what was growing here before the fire, as any crops have completely disappeared. Maybe the scientists were not very good gardeners, and there were no crops. However, you think that this is unlikely, as the crops they use on new colonies are virtually unkillable. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the south and west.\n\nAn abandoned metal table on wheels in the garden looks in poor condition, but still useable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the table", "response": "You get onto the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "But you're already on the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the house", "response": "The remains of the house litter the area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You get off the table.\n\nA large tree dominates this section of the clearing, with a low hanging, yet out of reach, branch above where the house used to be. It would have been just above the roof of a one-storey section of the house. However, it is now only above ashes. This tree must be tough and strong to have survived the chemical process used to create a clearing. The chemicals are supposed to clear everything in preparation for the houses and gardens of any colonists. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the south and east.\n\nA metal table on wheels is here.\n\nOn the branch you see a nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the nest with the shovel", "response": "You push the nest off the branch with the shovel. It quickly falls down and smashes onto the ground. You get off the table and look inside the remains to find a pink egg, which you take. As you look at the egg, for some reason, you feel an overwhelming hunger coming over you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the egg", "response": "This is a delicious looking bright pink egg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The ruins continue in this corner of the clearing. A puddle of leaking water has formed in a hole. It is probably where the water storage for the kitchen and bathroom was located. It has been policy for water to be brought in from off-planet, since an unfortunate incident with an alien species that mainly consisted of water. The wetness of the area seems to have protected the wood a little better here than in the other corners, with a few portions lying on the ground. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the north and east.\n\nIn the remains you see a surprisingly whole piece of wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wood", "response": "(the piece of wood)\nThis piece of wood is damp, but it has a decent size and weight behind it. It is several feet long and almost looks like a shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou cannot stop your sudden urge to eat the egg for much longer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "The pool of water in the hole is almost black from the ashes that have been washed into it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat egg", "response": "You break open the egg and quickly eat its contents. You are not sure what just possessed you, but you somehow knew that you had to eat the egg. Suddenly you feel strange and fall to the ground.\n\nWhen you finally wake up the world looks different. You soon realise what has happened, but not how.\n\nYOU HAVE BEEN INFECTED BY PINKNESS!\n\nThe world has gone pink. Absolutely everything is coloured with varying shades of pink. Looking down this even includes yourself. This cannot be good.\n\n(Please type \"about\" for further information about the game.)\n\nIn this corner, a puddle of leaking water has formed in a hole. Despite ashes from the ruins having been washed in, the water almost looks drinkable when it is coloured pink. However, it is probably only the colour that is different, so it is not a good idea to try. A few small portions of wood are lying in the pink ashes next to the pool. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look strange, as you are now pink like everything else around here. Pink does not look good on you. It doesn't look good on anything else either to be honest. However, you don't appear to have a choice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na piece of wood\na shovel\na backpack (being worn and open)\nfive rations\na communicator", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "In this new world state the large tree is still the main feature of this corner, although it is now pink. So is the low hanging branch that the nest was previously on. With the tree being the same colour as the ground, it is difficult to tell where one starts and the other ends. It is the same for the jungle and the edge of the clearing. If you concentrate, you can see the difference in shading, but if you don't, it looks like the jungle has already swallowed up this area. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the south and east.\n\nA metal table on wheels is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the table.\n\nIn this new world state the large tree is still the main feature of this corner, although it is now pink. So is the low hanging branch that the nest was previously on. With the tree being the same colour as the ground, it is difficult to tell where one starts and the other ends. It is the same for the jungle and the edge of the clearing. If you concentrate, you can see the difference in shading, but if you don't, it looks like the jungle has already swallowed up this area. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the south and east.\n\nA metal table on wheels is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "There is more to this location than before you ate the egg. It is not just that the ashes, ground, jungle and everywhere else is now coloured pink. It is the fact that there is a tunnel sloping downwards. You are sure that it wasn't there previously. You don't know where it came from, but tunnels do not just appear out of nowhere. However, there used to be more than one colour in the world, so you guess anything is possible here. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the north and west.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "As you walk down, the world shimmers and returns to normal colours.\n\nYou are standing at the entrance to a laboratory. It looks like it has been regularly used, although not in the last few weeks. The laboratory has not escaped the destruction from above. The floor is cracked, with a long, thin hole leading deep into the earth. The crack extends to the north, but can be easily stepped over. A tunnel slopes upward back towards the surface. The laboratory continues to the north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "Which do you mean, the crack or the tunnel?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Crack", "response": "(the all-purpose uniform)\nViolence isn't the answer to this one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tunnel", "response": "The tunnel entrance leads upwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A large, rectangular machine takes up most of the space in this corner of the laboratory. It looks like it could be used to mix ingredients and make evil concoctions, or not-so-evil depending on the mood. There is a control panel on the machine's side, with a closed compartment on top. Unfortunately, there are no helpful labels to describe any functions. A crack in the floor extends to the south. The laboratory continues to the south and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the machine", "response": "A closed compartment is visible on top of the mixing machine. The machine can be controlled by either a pink or yellow button situated on a control panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This corner of the laboratory looks more like the mad scientist's lair that you were expecting from a hidden laboratory. There is a workbench, which is covered by various papers and unusual coloured potions. You can just imagine a mad scientist cackling as he or she mixed together potions in crazy experiments throughout the night. A strange device is attached to the workbench, and it has a cable sticking out of it. This corner is less damaged than the rest of the laboratory, which continues to the south and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at device", "response": "This small electronic device is attached to the workbench. There is a screen on the top, with a red button sitting next to it. A cable sticks out of the back of the machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the screen", "response": "The screen is blank at present.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine button", "response": "(the communicator's button)\nThis button activates the X7ACIO87 communication unit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine red button", "response": "The red button is on the device attached to the workbench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cable", "response": "The cable sticks out from the device on the workbench. The other end is loose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the workbench", "response": "The top of the workbench is a mess, but unlike the rest of the laboratory, it probably is how it was left rather than being caused by the disaster. Within the mess are papers, scattered from one end of the workbench to the other, interspersed with the occasional potion. There is also an unusual device, which is built into the workbench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "The papers on the workbench contain information on many different formulae, but none that explain your situation. However, you do notice references to other papers that you cannot find on the workbench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the potions", "response": "There is a range of brightly coloured liquids, kept in flasks, lying on the workbench. You have no idea what any of them contain, so they will probably not be much use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Password", "response": "The device beeps twice, with a message of \"NO CONNECTION\" flashing up on the screen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the screen", "response": "The screen is blank at present.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "It looks like the laboratory's owner is more of a reader than you, as there is a very large bookcase in this corner. The bookcase is currently empty, but the library is still here, with a high pile of books sitting on the floor in front of the bookcase. The books look like they could be hiding something. Either the owner was careless, or the disaster caused the books to be knocked off the shelves. The titles mainly suggest that the contents of the pile are too technical to be interesting. You suppose finding fictional books would be too much to ask for in a laboratory. The laboratory continues to the north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "The pile of books almost look like they are covering something. In this pile are scientific texts and research mainly concentrating on the areas of psychology, biology and chemistry. You do not have time to place these books back in the shelves, so they are going to have to stay on the floor for now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the books", "response": "You move the books slightly to reveal a heavy metal chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chest", "response": "The metal chest looks very heavy and secure. It is closed, with no obvious way to open it, apart from a socket on the lid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the socket", "response": "This socket is on the lid of the chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cable", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cable in the socket", "response": "You plug the cable into the socket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pink", "response": "The device beeps once, with a message of \"INVALID PASSWORD\" flashing up on the screen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine communicator", "response": "There is a button on the X7ACIO87 communication unit, so you can talk to the ship via the communicator.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "It looks like the laboratory's owner is more of a reader than you, as there is a very large bookcase in this corner. The bookcase is currently empty, but the library is still here, with a high pile of books sitting on the floor in front of the bookcase. Either the owner was careless, or the disaster caused the books to be knocked off the shelves. The titles mainly suggest that the contents of the pile are too technical to be interesting. You suppose finding fictional books would be too much to ask for in a laboratory. The laboratory continues to the north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the bookcase", "response": "The bookcase is too heavy to move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "The bookcase is now empty of the books previously shelved in it. It covers most of the western wall in this corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the books", "response": "You pick up a book and read the title; \"Not Neurological\". You do not have time to read it, so you put it back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "You pick up a book and read the title; \"The Chemistry of Elements\". You do not have time to read it, so you put it back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "You pick up a book and read the title; \"Easy Personality Profiling\". You do not have time to read it, so you put it back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are standing at the entrance to a laboratory. It looks like it has been regularly used, although not in the last few weeks. The laboratory has not escaped the destruction from above. The floor is cracked, with a long, thin hole leading deep into the earth. The crack extends to the north, but can be easily stepped over. A tunnel slopes upward back towards the surface. The laboratory continues to the north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "As you walk back up, the world shimmers and returns to being all pink.\n\nThere is more to this location than before you ate the egg. It is not just that the ashes, ground, jungle and everywhere else is now coloured pink. It is the fact that there is a tunnel sloping downwards. You are sure that it wasn't there previously. You don't know where it came from, but tunnels do not just appear out of nowhere. However, there used to be more than one colour in the world, so you guess anything is possible here. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "It looks like a garden should fill most of this corner, but there are only weeds where there should be crops. However, you have to look carefully to notice this, as the weeds are more indistinguishable from whatever should be in the garden when they are coloured pink. Everything is actually a lot more indistinguishable to be honest. It is difficult to tell the ashes from the dirt patches, with the clearing looking a lot less damaged when in pink. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the south and west.\n\nA diary is lying on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the diary", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "This diary is bound within a pink cover and belongs to one of the scientists. Luckily, the text is in a dark shade of pink when compared to the background.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the diary", "response": "The diary belonged to one of the scientists, Dr. Mark Simmons. Most of the entries are filled with jargon and scientific data, which may be interesting to people back at the ship, but not to you. However, the last entry, which is dated several weeks ago, is different:\n\n...I don't know why, but the world has suddenly become crazy. Everything was fine yesterday (apart from my usual complaint that with the increasing periods of absence for James, I have been forced away from my studies too much). However, today everyone and everything seems to have gone insane. At the moment I am hiding in the jungle away from the madness. I think I will go back soon though. No, I won't. Maybe. The only thing stopping me is this writing. I have to keep writing to stop the temptation. The need. No, it is not a need. I am stronger than this. Maybe if I write what I know, then it will satisfy the craving. Maybe I shouldn't though, as I need to forget. No, I can't forget or think of anything else. I need to figure out what is going on.\n\nWhat I know, my diary, is that it all started this morning. It started with Jane. She has been acting strangely in recent days, almost paranoid whenever anyone approaches her. I have been avoiding the issue, as this is not my specialty. If James had been there, he would have known what to do. He is always good with the psychological aspects. He couldn't have helped this morning. I have never seen anything like it before. Jane was coloured bright pink. Yes, bright pink. Maybe she was infected with some local disease. I don't know. It seems likely though, as I cannot think of any other explanation. She looked strange, but she looked beautiful, irresistible even. She has always been attractive, but even more so today. Right now, I can't explain how this is true. I only know that it is. She seemed in a daze, mumbling something about how the \"PSYCHE\" was the key. The key to what, I don't know.\n\nWhat happened next? I was walking over to treat her condition. Yes, treat her condition. That's why, I think. Anyway, one of the junior scientists, Simon, reached her first. He kissed her. He actually kissed her. And she did not just slap and reject him. I don't understand. Why wasn't it me? I saw Simon change before my eyes. There were ripples in the air, almost like the air was as thick as water. But it isn't. But it was. Simon turned pink as well. I saw ecstasy in his eyes. Or was it just a love of life. I don't know. I didn't stay. I'm ashamed to say that I ran. I shouldn't be too ashamed though, as it is the only reason I am here.\n\nI admit that I have gone back once. I saw everyone standing in a circle holding hands. They were all pink. All of them except me. And maybe James. I didn't see him there. They then just disappeared. They vanished and I don't know where. I noticed that the house was burning. Someone must have left something on. It was too late. It is still too late. Everyone is gone, and the pinkness has not disappeared. I noticed in the garden that the fruit had gone pink as well. There were pink native flies, which have blighted our crops, but now it did not seem to matter. Animals were moving in from all directions to eat. I feel no better than those animals at the moment.\n\nI can't go back, but I need food. And that food is the only food I know. Maybe it will be all right by now. I hope so. I'll just have a quick look...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "There is more to this location than before you ate the egg. It is not just that the ashes, ground, jungle and everywhere else is now coloured pink. It is the fact that there is a tunnel sloping downwards. You are sure that it wasn't there previously. You don't know where it came from, but tunnels do not just appear out of nowhere. However, there used to be more than one colour in the world, so you guess anything is possible here. The clearing, and ruins, continues to the north and west.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "As you walk down, the world shimmers and returns to normal colours.\n\nYou are standing at the entrance to a laboratory. It looks like it has been regularly used, although not in the last few weeks. The laboratory has not escaped the destruction from above. The floor is cracked, with a long, thin hole leading deep into the earth. The crack extends to the north, but can be easily stepped over. A tunnel slopes upward back towards the surface. The laboratory continues to the north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "This corner of the laboratory looks more like the mad scientist's lair that you were expecting from a hidden laboratory. There is a workbench, which is covered by various papers and unusual coloured potions. You can just imagine a mad scientist cackling as he or she mixed together potions in crazy experiments throughout the night. A strange device is attached to the workbench, and it has a cable sticking out of it. This corner is less damaged than the rest of the laboratory, which continues to the south and east.\n\nYou can see a heavy metal chest (which is closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Psyche", "response": "\"ACCEPTED\" flashes up on the screen. The chest then pops open, with the cable being pulled out by the lid's movement. Inside the chest you find some notes, a gold watch, a silver bracelet, a black potion and an iron nail. You take all of these items and glance through the notes.\n\nReading through the notes, a few comments stick out:\n\n...She doesn't like me. I don't understand why, but she doesn't like me. That has never happened to me before, and I will not allow it to happen now...\n\n...I have developed a new project called \"Eros\". No one else knows about it and I need someplace secret so no one will find out about it in the future. Funding is not an issue, as being the leader of this settlement makes it easy to divert funds. The aim of this project is to shift reality. If Jane will not like me in this reality maybe I can shift us slightly to a reality where she will...\n\n...With my previous research and a native substance called Kahrz, I have developed the love potion. It has some strange effects that I have discovered by trying it out on myself. The new reality looks strangely pink, but I don't need the new reality to be perfect, I only need it to work. Love does not seem to be the only emotion amplified. The perception of reality changes on any strong emotions. One advantage from having a shifted reality is that it has provided an excellent hiding spot for a laboratory to develop the potion without any distractions...\n\n...I now have a machine to develop both the potion and the antidote. To generate the antidote I need to firstly add silver, iron, Vitamin X, Vitamin Y, Vitamin Z and Kahrz. The machine will remove any impurities from the mixture. After pressing the pink button again to mix the ingredients I open the machine for a second time with the yellow button and add some gold...\n\n...The potion is still not perfect, but I am running out of time before I have no more Kahrz. I have decided to start the next stage. I administered the potion to Jane's drink this morning, and took some myself. She has to meet me very soon now, and I will see the results. I will make a new batch of the antidote and administer it after we are finished...\n\n...I have a problem. I have collected some of the ingredients in my chest, but I cannot complete the recipe. I have been using the vitamin supplements from upstairs for the antidotes, but I just found out that native animals raided our supply last night and ate them all. There won't be any more until the next ship arrives. I guess I am now going to find out what happens when there is long exposure to the potion...\n\n...Jane is gone who knows where and I've almost left this reality several times. This laboratory is breaking up around me. I think this is the end of my time here. It is too late to get any help. Too late...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine ration", "response": "Each standard ration contains every vitamin, mineral and whatever else you need to stay healthy. Obviously taste is not a necessary component of healthiness though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na silver bracelet\na flask of Kahrz\nan iron nail\na gold watch\nsome notes\na diary\na communicator\na piece of wood\na scythe\na backpack (being worn and open)\nfive rations", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine flask", "response": "(the flask of Kahrz)\nThis black potion is known as Kahrz according to the notes. It is a substance taken from one of the native animals on this planet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A large, rectangular machine takes up most of the space in this corner of the laboratory. It looks like it could be used to mix ingredients and make evil concoctions, or not-so-evil depending on the mood. There is a control panel on the machine's side, with an open compartment on top. Unfortunately, there are no helpful labels to describe any functions. A crack in the floor extends to the south. The laboratory continues to the south and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the silver in the machine", "response": "You put the silver bracelet into the compartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the iron in the machine", "response": "You put the iron nail into the compartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ration in the machine", "response": "(the ration in the mixing machine)\nYou put the ration into the compartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Kahrz in machine", "response": "You put the flask of Kahrz into the compartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the gold in the machine", "response": "You begin to put the gold watch in the machine, but suddenly the ground rumbles beneath you. You drop the gold watch in surprise and it slips down the crack. You can see it hanging off a ledge, almost within arm's reach. Unfortunately the crack is not wide enough though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gold", "response": "The watch no longer seems to be working, with the date stopped several weeks back. It has a gold case and strap. The strap is missing a few links and is no longer wearable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial", "response": "You turn the dial and the scythe turns into a utility tool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "You turn the dial and the utility tool turns into a shovel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig the crack with the shovel", "response": "You dig with the shovel to widen the crack, so you can reach in and grab the gold watch. However, when you do try to reach in, it does not go as planned. The ground suddenly rumbles again, and knocks you off balance to send you tumbling into the deep hole.\n\nYou fall and fall until you smack into the ground. The impact knocks you unconscious.\n\nWhen you wake up, lying on the ground, everything has changed again. You are on a new world, which is almost cartoonish. The sky is pink and you wonder if you are dreaming. It is probably the continuing effects of the potion though. As you look around, you suddenly notice that you are no longer carrying anything.\n\nThe base of the Red Tower (on the ground)\nTo the south a very tall tower reaches up into the pink sky, with the man-made structure providing a counterpoint to the surrounding forest and mountains. Near the top of the tower you can see an open window. The tower must be dark and airless, as the only other visible opening is a large set of closed wooden doors, which block the entrance into the tower. A path leads to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gargoyle", "response": "On first glance the gargoyle looks monstrous, with a fierce facial expression and large wings, but when you notice that he is wearing glasses, he looks less intimidating. You think that he is made of stone, but he is clearly alive, so you are not sure. The gargoyle has not stopped staring at you since you first appeared.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the gargoyle about Tower", "response": "To talk to someone or something, please type TALK TO OBJECT.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the gargoyle", "response": "What would you like to say?\n(1) \"Who are you?\"\n(2) \"Where am I?\"\n(3) \"Why won't you let me in the tower?\"\n(4) \"Who was the golden-haired lady?\"\n(5) \"Isn't guard duty boring?\"\n(6) \"Would you accept any bribes?\"\n(7) \"Why do you need glasses?\"\n(8) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"All you need to know about me is that it is my duty to stop anyone from entering this tower. You don't even need to know my name, as I gave it up long ago to dedicate myself to this job. I am very diligent in my duty.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Where am I?\"\n(2) \"Why won't you let me in the tower?\"\n(3) \"Who was the golden-haired lady?\"\n(4) \"Isn't guard duty boring?\"\n(5) \"Would you accept any bribes?\"\n(6) \"Why do you need glasses?\"\n(7) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"You are standing in front of the Red Tower. If you want to know in more general terms, you are here in this province. It is not named, it just is.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Why won't you let me in the tower?\"\n(2) \"Who was the golden-haired lady?\"\n(3) \"Isn't guard duty boring?\"\n(4) \"Would you accept any bribes?\"\n(5) \"Why do you need glasses?\"\n(6) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"The Red Tower is not a place for mortals to walk through. It is a cursed place, as reality is thinner inside. People who enter rarely come out the same. I think I entered a long time ago, but I do not remember fully. I would never enter now, and no one else will either.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Who was the golden-haired lady?\"\n(2) \"Isn't guard duty boring?\"\n(3) \"Would you accept any bribes?\"\n(4) \"Why do you need glasses?\"\n(5) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"You mean the inhabitant of the tower. I do not know anything about her. It is not my business to know. It is only my business to be the guard of this tower. Other concerns are for other people.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Isn't guard duty boring?\"\n(2) \"Would you accept any bribes?\"\n(3) \"Why do you need glasses?\"\n(4) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"No, I find it rewarding. I have become used to maintaining my concentration. I like being successful, and I always spot people like you who are thinking of entering.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Would you accept any bribes?\"\n(2) \"Why do you need glasses?\"\n(3) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"No! I am dedicated to this job. I will admit though that I really like how that Amulet of Air worn by the shopkeeper looks.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Why do you need glasses?\"\n(2) \"What do you know about the Amulet of Air?\"\n(3) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"Why do you think? My eyesight is not as good as I would like it to be. You don't think I am wearing them for fun, do you?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"What do you know about the Amulet of Air?\"\n(2) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I don't know much. I just saw it once and really liked it. You should go ask the shopkeeper, if you want to know more, as he's the one who owns it.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Tower", "response": "This is a very tall tower, with only a window near the top and a door next to you, breaking up the solid red walls.\n\nThe gargoyle's unwavering stare is beginning to unsettle you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the glasses", "response": "The gargoyle is surprisingly wearing glasses. You did not know that stone creatures could have trouble with their eyesight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine doors", "response": "The two closed doors are the entrance to the tower. The doors are large and much taller than your height.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The boulder, at the base of a hill\nYou are standing at the base of a hill, which you can climb to the north. The undulating, grassy Arcadia almost makes you feel poetic, although your favoured style of limericks does not really fit the mold. A boulder, sitting in the middle of the path leading from the south, diverts the path around it and the hill to the northeast and northwest.\n\nYou suddenly remember that you were searching for a gold watch, and you have just seen a golden-haired Princess. Are they the same, although does it even matter if they are? This is a new reality, you think. You hope it isn't a hallucination.\n\nSticking out of the boulder is a sword hilt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine hilt", "response": "This is a simple, unadorned hilt. You vaguely remember legends of magical swords in stones, but not clearly. You wonder if your subconscious is shaping this world or not.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "You pull on the sword and it slides out easily. As the sword is withdrawn from the rock, you hear a strange melody, which builds to a crescendo when the sword is finally out. The hole in the boulder closes up again, after the sword is removed. That was very strange, but at least you have the sword now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sword", "response": "The sword does not look very effective. The blade is blunt and the overall design is much more simple than you expected from your knowledge about legendary swords in stones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boulder", "response": "The large boulder is the most distinctive feature of this location, sitting in the centre of the three diverging parts of the path. There do not appear to be many other rocks around, so you are not sure why the boulder is here. You don't think it is a natural occurrence, but who put it here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The lake, at the end of the river\nThe river from the north reaches its final destination in the lake that you are standing next to. The lake is clean and sparkling in the daylight. The reflected pink sky gives it an unusual colouration. A pump is whirring next to the lake, moving water into a pipe, which leads northwest underground. Unfortunately the pipe is leaking heavily at the moment and most of the water is instead rolling back into the lake. The lake is slowly expanding due to the pump not working adequately and the river flowing aggressively. The river's speed means that it is impossible for you to swim north. Next to the pump is a closed chest. A path curves around the lake from the northwest to the southeast. A hill can be seen to the northeast.\n\nA dolphin appears from beneath the lake's surface. He looks at you and almost beckons you to follow, as he dives back underneath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chest", "response": "A chest is sitting next to the pump and it is currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the chest, revealing an oxygen tank and a hose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at tank", "response": "The oxygen tank is useful for when you need to breathe in places with no air. It has a tube, which can be attached to a helmet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hose", "response": "The hose could be attached to a tap to direct the water's movement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pump", "response": "The machinery of the pump removes water from the lake, and pumps it through the pipe.\n\nA dolphin appears from beneath the lake's surface. He looks at you and almost beckons you to follow, as he dives back underneath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pipe", "response": "The pipe travels from the machine to underground. Above the ground a joint on the pipe is loose and lots of water is leaking out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "A steep cliff marks the start of the mountain range to the west. The mountains continue to the north and south, with no path through above ground in sight. There is a cave in the west cliff wall that may provide a path underground. The cave does not look too dark, as a faint light emanates inside, although you cannot make out any details. You are glad that you are not claustrophobic, although you are not fond of dark holes ever since you had to hide in one on your last mission. A path curves around a water tank, passing from the northeast to the southeast. The water tank has a tap on one side, with a sign above it saying \"Area Water Storage\".\n\nOn close inspection the cave entrance unfortunately reminds you more and more of the cave from your last mission.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tank", "response": "The tank is labeled \"Area Water Storage\" and it has pipes sticking out of it. The pipes head underground in both the northeast and southeast directions. You guess that the creatures around here get their water via the lake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the tap", "response": "You turn the tap on, but no water comes out. The tank must be empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn tap off", "response": "The tap is already off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cave", "response": "You can see that the cave heads deep into the mountains. Inside the entrance are some rock formations such as stalagmites and stalactites. The way the cave is situated within the cliff and the shape of the entrance reminds you of a cave from your last mission. Walking into that cave when you were retreating temporarily, you were almost burned alive by a fire trap set for the bugs. Luckily you were the wrong shape and avoided most of the damage. Once behind the trap you had a chance to rest up and formulate a strategy that you used to defeat several swarms. However, staying inside the cramped darkness for a long period was an experience you would not like to repeat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The bridge, over the river\nA river flows from the mountains in the north to a lake in the south. The water is clear and rushes swiftly underneath the wooden bridge that you are standing on. The speed of the water means that without the bridge you would not be able to get across. A path from the northeast to the southwest travels over the bridge. A hill is to the southeast. Next to the bridge on the river's western side, a fruit tree is surrounded by a pile of sharp rocks. There is no fruit left in the tree, but the remains of the past fruit can be found stuck on the rocks.\n\nA small bird lands and attempts to get the fruit, but it is immediately forced into the air by the sharpness of the rocks underneath it. You feel sorry for the bird and think that there is something odd about the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tree", "response": "You can tell that this is a fruit tree by the fruit lying underneath it, but it is difficult for you to tell what kind of fruit it is. The fruit is orange and purple, and you have never seen it before. You wish one of the colonists were here to help identify the fruit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rocks", "response": "The pile of sharp rocks surrounds the base of the fruit tree. The remains of some fruit from the tree are stuck to the pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine remains", "response": "The remains of the fruit are on the sharp rocks below the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the remains", "response": "You do not need the fruit.\n\nAnother small bird, trying to get the fruit, lands on the rocks. The bird takes off straight after landing, as the rocks are too sharp underneath it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the rocks", "response": "You can pick up rocks, but moving the whole pile is too difficult.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na small sharp rock\na sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "The river is moving swiftly from the north to the south under the bridge. Unlike many rivers you have seen on other planets, the relative primitiveness here has meant that the river has been left far cleaner and more attractive to look at.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lake", "response": "You can see that the river heads to a lake to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bridge", "response": "This is a sturdy wooden bridge, which crosses over the river.\n\nAnother small bird, trying to get the fruit, lands on the rocks. The bird takes off straight after landing, as the rocks are too sharp underneath it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bridge", "response": "This is a sturdy wooden bridge, which crosses over the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hill", "response": "A hill rises to the southeast of your location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "The top of this hill, is a good vantage point, as you can see everywhere from here. Luckily, as you do not want to walk too far, the area surrounding the hill is not that large. It is enclosed by a forest, which you cannot see the end of, to the east, and a mountain range, which you cannot see over, to the west. The two extremes meet at the north and south points of the area. In between you can see a farm to the east, a cave to the west, the Red Tower to the south and a shop to the north. A blanket of grass covers the whole hill, although the grass at the top does look a little flattened.\n\nThe white rabbit is hopping around the area.\n\nThe white rabbit bounds up to you and asks, \"Who are you? Come on, you can tell me. Are you from nearby? Are you rich? Are you hungry? Give me some answers now!\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"I am an explorer from a spaceship, who somehow made it to here.\" (2) \"I am a rich royal from another land.\"\n(3) \"It is none of your business!\"\n(4) \"Yes, I am hungry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"So, you are an alien. You do look funny. Where are your long ears? Are you going to experiment on me? You don't want to. Are you really an alien? I'm not sure. You don't look funny enough. Shouldn't you be green or something.\"\n\nThe rabbit becomes distracted, and begins hopping around the area again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rabbit", "response": "The white rabbit is very exuberant and is hopping crazily in strange patterns around the area. He looks very hyperactive, as he cannot seem to stop moving. Just watching him begins to give you a headache.\n\nThe white rabbit is wearing a four leaf clover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the rabbit", "response": "You call the rabbit over to you.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Who are you?\"\n(2) \"Where am I?\"\n(3) \"Do you want to take a break?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"Look around. You can see everything from here. Not everything in this province, but everything in this area. I have not left for a while, so I cannot say what else is around. You should look for yourself.\"\n\nThe rabbit becomes distracted, and begins hopping around the area again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the rabbit", "response": "You call the rabbit over to you.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Who are you?\"\n(2) \"Where did you get the four leaf clover?\"\n(3) \"Do you want to take a break?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"This clover was a present. It was given to me when I was young. That was a while ago. I was happier back then. The clover reminds me of when I was happier. Now I just feel lost. Hopefully, the clover will bring good luck, so I can find my way.\"\n\nThe rabbit becomes distracted, and begins hopping around the area again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the rabbit", "response": "You call the rabbit over to you.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Who are you?\"\n(2) \"Do you want to take a break?\"\n(3) \"Go away!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I'm not sure anymore. I just don't know. I know I'm in a hurry. I'm a white rabbit now, but was I always this way. I must have been.\"\n\nThe rabbit becomes distracted, and begins hopping around the area again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the rabbit", "response": "You call the rabbit over to you.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Why are you hopping around here?\"\n(2) \"Do you want to take a break?\"\n(3) \"Go away!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I'm looking for something. Or someone. Or somewhere. I don't know, but I think it is here. I hope. Maybe I can see it from here. I used to be able to focus, but not anymore. Ever since the War, I just cannot think straight.\"\n\nThe rabbit becomes distracted, and begins hopping around the area again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the rabbit", "response": "You call the rabbit over to you.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Do you want to take a break?\"\n(2) \"What happened in the War?\"\n(3) \"Go away!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"I don't know. I don't remember. I don't want to remember.\"\n\nThe rabbit becomes distracted, and begins hopping around the area again.\n\nThe white rabbit bounds up to you again, in order to start a conversation.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Do you want to take a break?\"\n(2) \"Go away!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I could use a break, but not yet. I am not that tired. A snack might be nice though. Not that I have any food to eat. The carrots in the shop look nice though.\"\n\nThe rabbit becomes distracted, and begins hopping around the area again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The shop entrance, at the base of a hill\nThe paths from the southeast and southwest intersect at a shop. A sign hangs over the shop's entrance to the north, proclaiming it as \"Stegosaurus Supplies\". You can climb the hill to the south, after walking past a sculpture. The sculpture is labeled as \"Man on Bird\", and it is life-size in scale. At least the man is life-size, and you did not know that birds could be that big. The man is armed with a lance and a shield, although he looks very close to dropping the shield. A regular ear-splitting screech emanating from the bird is threatening to give you a headache. A flash of light catches your attention from under the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the light", "response": "There is a small closed door, which is coloured gold and sits on the underside of the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the gold door", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shield", "response": "(first climbing the ladder that is attached to the side of the sculpture)\nYou pull the shield loose from the man's grasp. You then climb back down to the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shield", "response": "This shield looks very effective and solid. It might even be possible to use it as an actual shield.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sculpture", "response": "A label at the base of the statue says \"Man on Bird\", which is an accurate description of what you are seeing. The man is armed with a lance, and he looks ready for battle on the giant bird. You wonder whom he was battling. That is, of course, if this is a historically motivated rather than an artistically motivated sculpture. It is difficult to tell when you have not been in this land for long. On close inspection you notice a ladder built into the side of the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This shop is almost empty. Business looks to have been very bad, as the heavy and undisturbed layer of dust means that no stock has been sold here for too long. On the eastern side are shelves, which only contain a few books and a tin of blue paint. On the western side is a table of food, on which small piles of carrots, mulberry tree leaves and steak sit. The glass counter looks a bit more full and houses some shiny objects, with the most eye-catching being a gold key, a silver wrench and a bronze diving helmet. A sign is next to these objects. The only exit is back to the south.\n\nThe Stegosaurus is standing behind the counter. He is wearing the Amulet of Air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the sign", "response": "What would a store be without exciting looking items at the counter to catch your attention for last-minute purchases? The shininess works well here in attracting your attention to a gold key, a silver wrench and a bronze diving helmet. A sign next to the items says \"Special Lucky Offer Available Now!\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stegosaur", "response": "It is lucky that there is plenty of room behind this counter, as otherwise the Stegosaurus would not fit. In fact it looks like there is more store behind than in front of the counter. Despite his large size, the Stegosaurus does look helpful, although a little worried, which is probably due to the lack of business at this store. He is wearing the Amulet of Air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Amulet", "response": "The Amulet of Air is made of pumice. The head of the Princess you saw earlier is carved into the shape of the amulet. A cord allows the amulet to be worn around someone's neck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the stegosaur", "response": "What would you like to say?\n(1) \"Who are you?\"\n(2) \"Where am I?\"\n(3) \"How is the business going?\"\n(4) \"What is the special lucky offer?\"\n(5) \"Can I have the Amulet of Air?\"\n(6) \"What are the Amulets?\"\n(7) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I am the owner of this store and, in case you can't figure it out, I am a dinosaur. I am unique around here, as dinosaurs are extinct. I must have been so lucky in surviving that I have only been unlucky since.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Where am I?\"\n(2) \"How is the business going?\"\n(3) \"What is the special lucky offer?\"\n(4) \"Can I have the Amulet of Air?\"\n(5) \"What are the Amulets?\"\n(6) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"You are standing in my store, so hopefully you are a customer. There aren't that many other customers left around here, as this region has been abandoned by many creatures in recent times.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"How is the business going?\"\n(2) \"What is the special lucky offer?\"\n(3) \"Can I have the Amulet of Air?\"\n(4) \"What are the Amulets?\"\n(5) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"Business has been poor since the War. The strange thing is that no one can really remember what happened during or before the War. I don't even know whether we won or lost, apart from that I think everyone lost. There was too much magic and it has had strange effects on everything. The only thing I remember is that the Princess became locked in the Red Tower late in the War. The Red Tower has been affected most by the magic and is not a safe place to enter. No one dares go there to let the Princess out. This shop used to house a lot more products, so there have to have been more creatures, but I guess too many creatures died or left this area.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"What is the special lucky offer?\"\n(2) \"Can I have the Amulet of Air?\"\n(3) \"What are the Amulets?\"\n(4) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"The special lucky offer is that I am willing to trade any of these items in this counter for a lucky item. Dinosaurs became extinct a long while ago, yet here I am. I don't know how, but I do know I must have used up all my luck in surviving, as this shop has been a disaster. So, if you give me a four leaf clover, horseshoe, rabbit's foot, or so on, then you can have one of these items. That is not all though, as I will swap whatever you take for any of the items remaining, if you later change your mind.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Can I have the Amulet of Air?\"\n(2) \"What are the Amulets?\"\n(3) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"No! This Amulet is mine, and I like it. I am not going to give it away. Not cheaply anyway. I am not willing to trade it for one of the other Amulets, but if you give me two of them, then I will consider it. I think most of the other residents in this area have found an Amulet at some stage.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"What are the Amulets?\"\n(2) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"There are four Amulets for Air, Earth, Fire and Water. I don't know how, but they appeared at the end of the War, and I think they are related to the Princess in some way. They are made in her image, so that is a fairly safe assumption. I don't think there is any magic in them, but it could be just that I cannot access it. I'm told that the Amulets appeal most to creatures with affinities to the elements. I couldn't tell you for sure though.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the carrot", "response": "When you reach for the food, the shopkeeper says, \"You would need money to pay for that, and I do not think that you have any. We do have a special lucky offer on the items in the counter though.\"\n\nThe shopkeeper tells you, \"Take your time in looking around.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the carrot", "response": "There is not much of a range of food here, but what is here does look new. At least these items look like they sell more regularly. The few items piled on the table include carrots, mulberry tree leaves and steak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at helmet", "response": "The bronze helmet could be used for diving underwater, if it is attached to an oxygen tank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at key", "response": "This small key is golden coloured.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wrench", "response": "The silver wrench looks a useful tool for tightening or loosening objects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The shop entrance, at the base of a hill\nThe paths from the southeast and southwest intersect at a shop. A sign hangs over the shop's entrance to the north, proclaiming it as \"Stegosaurus Supplies\". You can climb the hill to the south, after walking past a sculpture. The sculpture is labeled as \"Man on Bird\", and it is life-size in scale. At least the man is life-size, and you did not know that birds could be that big. The man is armed with a lance. A regular ear-splitting screech emanating from the bird is threatening to give you a headache. There is a small gold door in the underside of the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The field, on the farm\nThis section of the farm has a fenced off field, which is full of carrot plants. There is no access to the field, but there is a mechanical dog inside in the northeast corner. The metal on the dog is no longer shiny, and is in fact a little rusty. Next to the southwest corner is a machine with a funnel on top and a control panel on its side. A pipe leads from the machine to the southern wall. There is an open door in the wall as well. A path leads from the southeast to the northwest. A hill can be climbed to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dog", "response": "You can see that the mechanical dog has the name Rover written on its side. You wonder why it has a name, when no one else seems to. The dog is made of metal, although this metal is no longer new and shiny. It has been neglected and is rusty in places. There is a basket on the dog's back. The dog is standing still, waiting for its next command. It is currently in the northeast corner of the field.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine basket", "response": "The basket on the dog's back is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plants", "response": "The carrot plants in the field can presumably be harvested to get carrots.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the machine", "response": "There is a machine attached to the fence in the southwest corner of the field. The machine has a funnel on top and a control panel on one side. The panel has two buttons and a dial on it. A pipe leads from the machine to the southern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the panel", "response": "The control panel has two buttons, one labeled dig and the other labeled empty. There is also a dial. The dial is currently centred, and can be turned to CL1 or CL2 on one side, and CCL1 or CCL2 on the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pipe", "response": "One end of the pipe is attached to the machine. The pipe then progresses until it enters the wall to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wall", "response": "The wall to the south contains a door and is part of a shelter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "This door allows access from the field for the farm to the shelter. It is currently open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "A forest blocks your progress in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The shelter, on the farm\nYou are standing under a shelter, with the roof and northern wall protecting a pile of carrots. The end of a pipe is on the wall above the pile. Strangely there is also a container under the shelter labeled poison, which has a green liquid bubbling out of it. It does not seem to fit the mood of the place, and almost blurs out of your vision occasionally. There is an open door in the northern wall, with a path also progressing from the southwest to the northeast. The hill can be climbed to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the liquid", "response": "You can tell that the poison is out of place, but you are not really sure why. You wonder if you are fully happy with this reality, or if your doubts are changing it. Whatever the reason for the poison, it definitely looks deadly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the carrots", "response": "This is a huge pile of carrots under the shelter. It must be the main vegetable produced on the farm. In fact it looks like the only product.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell the carrot", "response": "(the pile of carrots)\nYou smell nothing unexpected.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The boulder, at the base of a hill\nYou are standing at the base of a hill, which you can climb to the north. The undulating, grassy Arcadia almost makes you feel poetic, although your favoured style of limericks does not really fit the mold. A boulder, sitting in the middle of the path leading from the south, diverts the path around it and the hill to the northeast and northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The shelter, on the farm\nYou are standing under a shelter, with the roof and northern wall protecting a pile of carrots. The end of a pipe is on the wall above the pile. Strangely there is also a container under the shelter labeled poison, which has a green liquid bubbling out of it. It does not seem to fit the mood of the place, and almost blurs out of your vision occasionally. There is an open door in the northern wall, with a path also progressing from the southwest to the northeast. The hill can be climbed to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The lake, at the end of the river\nThe river from the north reaches its final destination in the lake that you are standing next to. The lake is clean and sparkling in the daylight. The reflected pink sky gives it an unusual colouration. A pump is whirring next to the lake, moving water into a pipe, which leads northwest underground. Unfortunately the pipe is leaking heavily at the moment and most of the water is instead rolling back into the lake. The lake is slowly expanding due to the pump not working adequately and the river flowing aggressively. The river's speed means that it is impossible for you to swim north. Next to the pump is an open chest. A path curves around the lake from the northwest to the southeast. A hill can be seen to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The top of this hill, is a good vantage point, as you can see everywhere from here. Luckily, as you do not want to walk too far, the area surrounding the hill is not that large. It is enclosed by a forest, which you cannot see the end of, to the east, and a mountain range, which you cannot see over, to the west. The two extremes meet at the north and south points of the area. In between you can see a farm to the east, a cave to the west, the Red Tower to the south and a shop to the north. A blanket of grass covers the whole hill, although the grass at the top does look a little flattened.\n\nThe white rabbit is hopping around the area.\n\nThe white rabbit bounds up to you again, in order to start a conversation.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Why don't you just take the carrots from the shop?\"\n(2) \"Go away!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I have no money. That would be stealing. I'm not a bad rabbit. I'm a good rabbit. Don't even suggest that.\"\n\nThe rabbit becomes distracted, and begins hopping around the area again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the carrot to the rabbit", "response": "The white rabbit looks surprised at your offering, but he gratefully takes it. The rabbit quickly eats all of the carrot, but immediately afterwards he yawns widely. He thanks you and gives you his lucky four leaf clover as a reward, before lying down on the ground and going to sleep. It is the first time that you have seen him peaceful, and you hope that he can get some good rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rabbit", "response": "The rabbit looks tired, so you decide to let him sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The shop entrance, at the base of a hill\nThe paths from the southeast and southwest intersect at a shop. A sign hangs over the shop's entrance to the north, proclaiming it as \"Stegosaurus Supplies\". You can climb the hill to the south, after walking past a sculpture. The sculpture is labeled as \"Man on Bird\", and it is life-size in scale. At least the man is life-size, and you did not know that birds could be that big. The man is armed with a lance. A regular ear-splitting screech emanating from the bird is threatening to give you a headache. There is a small gold door in the underside of the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This shop is almost empty. Business looks to have been very bad, as the heavy and undisturbed layer of dust means that no stock has been sold here for too long. On the eastern side are shelves, which only contain a few books and a tin of blue paint. On the western side is a table of food, on which small piles of carrots, mulberry tree leaves and steak sit. The glass counter looks a bit more full and houses some shiny objects, with the most eye-catching being a gold key, a silver wrench and a bronze diving helmet. A sign is next to these objects. The only exit is back to the south.\n\nThe Stegosaurus is standing behind the counter. He is wearing the Amulet of Air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the clover to Stegosaurus", "response": "The shopkeeper gratefully accepts your gift and puts it behind the counter. He says \"You can take any of the items in the counter if you wish, and remember that you can always trade the item back later, if you want a different one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "The shopkeeper gives you the gold key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the gold door with the key", "response": "(first unlocking the door with the gold key)\nYou open the gold compartment, revealing a sound box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "This box looks like it is the source of the screeching. It is currently switched on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the box", "response": "You turn off the box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na sound box\na gold key\na shield\na small sharp rock\na sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is almost empty. Business looks to have been very bad, as the heavy and undisturbed layer of dust means that no stock has been sold here for too long. On the eastern side are shelves, which only contain a few books and a tin of blue paint. On the western side is a table of food, on which small piles of carrots, mulberry tree leaves and steak sit. The glass counter looks a bit more full and houses some shiny objects, with the most eye-catching being a silver wrench and a bronze diving helmet. A sign is next to these objects. The only exit is back to the south.\n\nThe Stegosaurus is standing behind the counter. He is wearing the Amulet of Air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the key to Stegosaurus", "response": "The shopkeeper puts the gold key back into the counter and tells you that you can take any of the items in there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the wrench", "response": "The shopkeeper gives you the silver wrench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The shop entrance, at the base of a hill\nThe paths from the southeast and southwest intersect at a shop. A sign hangs over the shop's entrance to the north, proclaiming it as \"Stegosaurus Supplies\". You can climb the hill to the south, after walking past a sculpture. The sculpture is labeled as \"Man on Bird\", and it is life-size in scale. At least the man is life-size, and you did not know that birds could be that big. The man is armed with a lance. There is a small gold door in the underside of the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "The bridge, over the river\nA river flows from the mountains in the north to a lake in the south. The water is clear and rushes swiftly underneath the wooden bridge that you are standing on. The speed of the water means that without the bridge you would not be able to get across. A path from the northeast to the southwest travels over the bridge. A hill is to the southeast. Next to the bridge on the river's western side, a fruit tree is surrounded by a pile of sharp rocks. There is no fruit left in the tree, but the remains of the past fruit can be found stuck on the rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "A steep cliff marks the start of the mountain range to the west. The mountains continue to the north and south, with no path through above ground in sight. There is a cave in the west cliff wall that may provide a path underground. The cave does not look too dark, as a faint light emanates inside, although you cannot make out any details. You are glad that you are not claustrophobic, although you are not fond of dark holes ever since you had to hide in one on your last mission. A path curves around a water tank, passing from the northeast to the southeast. The water tank has a tap on one side, with a sign above it saying \"Area Water Storage\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A mountain range blocks your progress in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the pipe", "response": "You tighten the pipe as best you can with the silver wrench. Soon the water has almost stopped leaking. Your quick fix isn't completely successful, but the slight drip left will, you hope, not have much effect.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the tap", "response": "You turn the tap on, and water starts dripping on the ground under it. There seems little need to waste water, so you turn the tap back off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "The bridge, over the river\nA river flows from the mountains in the north to a lake in the south. The water is clear and rushes swiftly underneath the wooden bridge that you are standing on. The speed of the water means that without the bridge you would not be able to get across. A path from the northeast to the southwest travels over the bridge. A hill is to the southeast. Next to the bridge on the river's western side, a fruit tree is surrounded by a pile of sharp rocks. There is no fruit left in the tree, but the remains of the past fruit can be found stuck on the rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The shop entrance, at the base of a hill\nThe paths from the southeast and southwest intersect at a shop. A sign hangs over the shop's entrance to the north, proclaiming it as \"Stegosaurus Supplies\". You can climb the hill to the south, after walking past a sculpture. The sculpture is labeled as \"Man on Bird\", and it is life-size in scale. At least the man is life-size, and you did not know that birds could be that big. The man is armed with a lance. There is a small gold door in the underside of the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This shop is almost empty. Business looks to have been very bad, as the heavy and undisturbed layer of dust means that no stock has been sold here for too long. On the eastern side are shelves, which only contain a few books and a tin of blue paint. On the western side is a table of food, on which small piles of carrots, mulberry tree leaves and steak sit. The glass counter looks a bit more full and houses some shiny objects, with the most eye-catching being a gold key and a bronze diving helmet. A sign is next to these objects. The only exit is back to the south.\n\nThe Stegosaurus is standing behind the counter. He is wearing the Amulet of Air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the wrench to Stegosaurus", "response": "The shopkeeper puts the silver wrench back into the counter and tells you that you can take any of the items in there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the helmet", "response": "The shopkeeper gives you the bronze diving helmet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The lake, at the end of the river\nThe river from the north reaches its final destination in the lake that you are standing next to. The lake is clean and sparkling in the daylight. The reflected pink sky gives it an unusual colouration. A pump is whirring next to the lake, moving water into a pipe, which leads northwest underground. The pump is now removing water at a similar rate to the river rushing towards the lake. The river's speed means that it is impossible for you to swim north. Next to the pump is an open chest. A path curves around the lake from the northwest to the southeast. A hill can be seen to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You connect the tank to the helmet", "response": "You attach the oxygen tank to the diving helmet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear helmet", "response": "You put on the bronze diving helmet (with oxygen tank attached).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na bronze diving helmet (with oxygen tank attached) (being worn)\na sound box\na shield\na small sharp rock\na sword", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You descend", "response": "You dive into the lake and swim out to the middle.\n\nThe bottom of the lake, southwest corner\nAs you swim around, you notice an old treasure chest lies on the floor in the southwest corner of the lake. It is closed and its base has become embedded in the ground beneath it. You wonder who left their treasure in the lake long ago, and why it was abandoned. Maybe it was too difficult to retrieve, or maybe it was lost not hidden. Whatever happened, it's ancient history now. The lake continues to the east and north, but you could also return back up to the surface.\n\nThe dolphin swims up to you and says, \"I need your help. I can't get into my home. I'm sure that you can think of something, and I would be very grateful.\"\n\nThe dolphin is currently swimming in the area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open chest", "response": "When you open the treasure chest you do not find the gold, jewels or amulets that you were hoping for. In fact you do not find anything at all. It is completely empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close chest", "response": "You close the treasure chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the dolphin", "response": "What would you like to say?\n(1) \"Who are you?\"\n(2) \"Where am I?\"\n(3) \"What are you doing?\"\n(4) \"How did your home get blocked off?\"\n(5) \"Have you noticed the treasure chest?\"\n(6) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I can't tell you that much about myself, as I was separated from any other dolphins a long while ago. In fact I cannot even remember any others. All I remember is waking up in here. I wonder if I was kidnapped, but I have found no kidnappers. Still, it doesn't really matter, and it is better not to dwell on the past.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Where am I?\"\n(2) \"What are you doing?\"\n(3) \"How did your home get blocked off?\"\n(4) \"Have you noticed the treasure chest?\"\n(5) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"This lake is where I live now. I had an accident, I think, a while back, and I have lost a lot of my memory. To be honest, I do not know how I got here. I have tried exploring up the river, but it does not lead to the sea. I would like a little more space. However, the only thing left to do, is to make the best of the situation and live here.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"What are you doing?\"\n(2) \"How did your home get blocked off?\"\n(3) \"Have you noticed the treasure chest?\"\n(4) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I am swimming around the area. I like swimming around in nice loops down here, as it is good exercise. I need to keep in shape, as you never know when an opportunity to leave will arise. I want to be ready to fit in wherever I go. I have some secret ambitions, but I am too nervous to discuss them yet. I know everything will work out, if I just do my best.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"How did your home get blocked off?\"\n(2) \"Have you noticed the treasure chest?\"\n(3) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I'm not sure, as I wasn't there when it happened. I am grateful that I wasn't there inside to become stuck inside my home. The construction on the tunnel has not been as well done, as I would have liked. There were a few cracks in the ceiling above the entrance, and I guess that the roof just collapsed whilst I was away.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Have you noticed the treasure chest?\"\n(2) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"Yes, I noticed it fairly quickly. It is easy to spot, as I'm sure you have found. The chest was originally full of jewels, but I sold them off. They paid for the construction of my nice home, and allowed me to help a few other people around the area.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The bottom of the lake, northwest corner\nThe northwest corner has some unusual underwater plant life, with what looks like a tree growing out of the lake floor. It is surprising, as you would expect a tree like that to be growing on land, but maybe this tree is lost. You can see to the east a steep underwater cliff that almost reaches the surface. The water's shallowness separates the northeast corner from the rest of the lake. There is a tunnel in the cliff that you can swim into to the east. You can also swim through the lake to the south, or back up to the surface.\n\nThe dolphin is currently swimming in the area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "You have not heard of underwater trees like this one, but there is a lot about this land that is new to you. The unusual seems to happen regularly here. The tree has leaves, branches and everything you would expect, but you still keep thinking that you must be wrong somehow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "You could just swim back up to the surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You swim back up to the surface of the lake at the edge. You pull yourself out of the water and return to dry land.\n\nThe lake, at the end of the river\nThe river from the north reaches its final destination in the lake that you are standing next to. The lake is clean and sparkling in the daylight. The reflected pink sky gives it an unusual colouration. A pump is whirring next to the lake, moving water into a pipe, which leads northwest underground. The pump is now removing water at a similar rate to the river rushing towards the lake. The river's speed means that it is impossible for you to swim north. Next to the pump is an open chest. A path curves around the lake from the northwest to the southeast. A hill can be seen to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tunnel", "response": "The tunnel does not look like a natural hole in the cliff. It looks like someone has drilled through the cliff at some stage to create it.\n\nThe dolphin swims off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The tunnel, west end\nThe tunnel has been carved into the rock, curving around from the south to the west. It slopes downwards in each direction. Unfortunately you can only see a little of the tunnel to the south as the boulder from the roof falling down is blocking the tunnel at its highest point. There is a crack that you can see slightly through. The boulder also appears to be blocking the entrance to a room. At the moment you can only exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crack", "response": "You can see the other side of the tunnel through the crack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boulder", "response": "This large chunk of rock came from the roof of the tunnel, but you have no idea why it fell down. Maybe the tunnel was not very well made. The chunk is fairly round and could roll.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bottom of the lake, northwest corner\nThe northwest corner has some unusual underwater plant life, with what looks like a tree growing out of the lake floor. It is surprising, as you would expect a tree like that to be growing on land, but maybe this tree is lost. You can see to the east a steep underwater cliff that almost reaches the surface. The water's shallowness separates the northeast corner from the rest of the lake. There is a tunnel in the cliff that you can swim into to the east. You can also swim through the lake to the south, or back up to the surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The bottom of the lake, southeast corner\nWhilst swimming around the southeast corner of the lake, the most noticeable object is a sunken rowboat. The reason for the sinking you would guess has something to do with the crack along the boat's bottom, which probably would not have kept out the water very well. It does not look like the boat was well maintained, although being abandoned at the bottom of the lake wouldn't have helped. You can see to the north a steep underwater cliff that almost reaches the surface. The water's shallowness separates the northeast corner from the rest of the lake. There is a tunnel in the cliff that you can swim into to the north. You can also swim through the lake to the west, or back up to the surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the oar", "response": "The long wooden oar could once be used to row a boat. However, you do not have a boat, and the oar is not in good condition anymore. It is still a reasonably strong piece of wood though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boat", "response": "The rowboat has deteriorated sitting on the bottom of the lake, although it probably wasn't in great condition before then. There is a crack in the bottom, and the lake floor has begun to come through it to start burying the boat in the ground. The boat is not large and could not have held more than a few passengers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The tunnel, south end\nThe tunnel has been carved into the rock, curving around from the south to the west. It slopes downwards in each direction. Unfortunately you can only see a little of the tunnel to the west as the boulder from the roof falling down is blocking the tunnel at its highest point. There is a crack that you can see slightly through. The boulder also appears to be blocking the entrance to a room. At the moment you can only exit to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nan oar\na bronze diving helmet (with oxygen tank attached) (being worn)\na sound box\na shield\na small sharp rock\na sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bottom of the lake, southwest corner\nAs you swim around, you notice an old treasure chest lies on the floor in the southwest corner of the lake. It is closed and its base has become embedded in the ground beneath it. You wonder who left their treasure in the lake long ago, and why it was abandoned. Maybe it was too difficult to retrieve, or maybe it was lost not hidden. Whatever happened, it's ancient history now. The lake continues to the east and north, but you could also return back up to the surface.\n\nThe dolphin is currently swimming in the area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The bottom of the lake, northwest corner\nThe northwest corner has some unusual underwater plant life, with what looks like a tree growing out of the lake floor. It is surprising, as you would expect a tree like that to be growing on land, but maybe this tree is lost. You can see to the east a steep underwater cliff that almost reaches the surface. The water's shallowness separates the northeast corner from the rest of the lake. There is a tunnel in the cliff that you can swim into to the east. You can also swim through the lake to the south, or back up to the surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The tunnel, west end\nThe tunnel has been carved into the rock, curving around from the south to the west. It slopes downwards in each direction. Unfortunately you can only see a little of the tunnel to the south as the boulder from the roof falling down is blocking the tunnel at its highest point. There is a crack that you can see slightly through. The boulder also appears to be blocking the entrance to a room. At the moment you can only exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stay", "response": "To talk to someone or something, please type TALK TO OBJECT.\n\nThe dolphin swims off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The tunnel, south end\nThe tunnel has been carved into the rock, curving around from the south to the west. It slopes downwards in each direction. Unfortunately you can only see a little of the tunnel to the west as the boulder from the roof falling down is blocking the tunnel at its highest point. There is a crack that you can see slightly through. The boulder also appears to be blocking the entrance to a room. At the moment you can only exit to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chest", "response": "The chest is on the floor near the bed. It is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open chest", "response": "You open the chest, revealing the Amulet of Water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Amulet", "response": "The Amulet of Water is made of seashell. The head of the Princess you saw earlier is carved into the shape of the amulet. A cord allows the amulet to be worn around someone's neck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close chest", "response": "You close the chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The bottom of the lake, northwest corner\nThe northwest corner has some unusual underwater plant life, with what looks like a tree growing out of the lake floor. It is surprising, as you would expect a tree like that to be growing on land, but maybe this tree is lost. You can see to the east a steep underwater cliff that almost reaches the surface. The water's shallowness separates the northeast corner from the rest of the lake. There is a tunnel in the cliff that you can swim into to the east. You can also swim through the lake to the south, or back up to the surface.\n\nThe boulder from the tunnel is on the ground here.\n\nThe dolphin is currently swimming in the area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This room is jovial in mood, with a hoop and rubber ball abandoned on the floor next to a bed. The bed's covers are adorned with images of a circus, including clowns and acrobats performing in the picture of the show. When you were young, you wanted to be in the circus, until you found out how little it paid compared to your current job. It would have helped if you had been a little more agile as well. There is also a closed chest in the room. Tunnels head to the south and west. A chunk is missing from the ceiling near the entrance of the room.\n\nThe dolphin swims in from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Amulet", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "The circus pictures on the covers of the bed, along with the ball and hoop on the floor, lead you to believe that the dolphin is interested in show business. Whether he has any talent is another matter, which you don't know the answer to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ball", "response": "The rubber ball is about the size of your diving helmet. It has been abandoned on the floor, along with the hoop.\n\nThe dolphin swims off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bottom of the lake, northwest corner\nThe northwest corner has some unusual underwater plant life, with what looks like a tree growing out of the lake floor. It is surprising, as you would expect a tree like that to be growing on land, but maybe this tree is lost. You can see to the east a steep underwater cliff that almost reaches the surface. The water's shallowness separates the northeast corner from the rest of the lake. There is a tunnel in the cliff that you can swim into to the east. You can also swim through the lake to the south, or back up to the surface.\n\nThe boulder from the tunnel is on the ground here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You swim back up to the surface of the lake at the edge. You pull yourself out of the water and return to dry land.\n\nThe lake, at the end of the river\nThe river from the north reaches its final destination in the lake that you are standing next to. The lake is clean and sparkling in the daylight. The reflected pink sky gives it an unusual colouration. A pump is whirring next to the lake, moving water into a pipe, which leads northwest underground. The pump is now removing water at a similar rate to the river rushing towards the lake. The river's speed means that it is impossible for you to swim north. Next to the pump is an open chest. A path curves around the lake from the northwest to the southeast. A hill can be seen to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the helmet", "response": "You take off the bronze diving helmet (with oxygen tank attached).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the helmet in the chest", "response": "You put the bronze diving helmet (with oxygen tank attached) into the chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You try to walk into the cave, but you stop when a gust of fire is blown out. A voice apologises from inside, \"Sorry about that. I'm a dragon, and I have been having a little trouble with my fire breathing recently. Ok, a lot of trouble. That's why I'm hiding in here, and don't want to see anyone. We can talk, but don't come in, without something to protect you from the flames. I just can't stop at the moment.\"\n\nYou lift your shield and try again to enter. This time the shield deflects the flames. You slowly step inside the cave and walk towards the lit area you see inside.\n\nThere is not much left in this cave apart from ashes scattered around the area. It looks like the dragon's uncontrollable fire breathing problems have not been healthy for the furniture. All that is left is one table and a bed. You could guess that they were lucky, but looking at their pristine condition, a better guess might be that they are brand new. Sunlight is coming in from a hole in the ceiling of the cave that penetrates through to outside the mountain. The cave continues further to the west, but it is too dark to continue. The exit back outside is to the east.\n\nThe dragon is lying on his stomach on the bed, facing towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dragon", "response": "The green dragon is not looking well and is lying on the bed. He looks very nervous, and his fire breathing problems are obviously affecting him. He looks uncomfortable and is regularly shifting around in the bed, almost as if there was something hidden in the small gap between the dragon and the bed. The dragon's wings and tail are tightly curled around him, as he looks to be trying to hide from the world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "This is a long bed, which is close to the floor. It is not much better than just being a mattress.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "The table is the only piece of furniture in here apart from the bed. It is not that large and sits next to the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the dragon", "response": "What would you like to say?\n(1) \"Who are you?\"\n(2) \"Where am I?\"\n(3) \"Do you have any amulets?\"\n(4) \"Is there any way I can help you?\"\n(5) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I am the dragon, who is stuck inside this cave. It started several months ago, when I accidentally set a table on fire in here. It has only become worse since, and I cannot control the fire coming out of my mouth. I just seem to be on fire inside. I'm scared to leave this cave. I may hurt someone, and I don't want to hurt anyone. I need the fire inside me to be put out!\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Where am I?\"\n(2) \"Do you have any amulets?\"\n(3) \"Is there any way I can help you?\"\n(4) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"You are standing inside my home in this cave. I like having the company, but I am afraid of hurting you with my flames, so it might be a good time for you to leave. Not that you have to, but I think it would be a good idea. Sorry, maybe you can wander around other more interesting places.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Do you have any amulets?\"\n(2) \"Is there any way I can help you?\"\n(3) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"Yes I do actually. I have one somewhere on this bed, but at the moment I don't feel healthy enough to get up and let you look for it. Maybe another time.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Is there any way I can help you?\"\n(2) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I don't know. If I knew a way to help myself, I would have done it already. I just feel like I'm burning up inside and the fire keeps spilling out to the outside of me. I wish I knew other dragons who had survived the same condition, but I only know a few and none of them have a clue.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Goodbye.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear Amulet", "response": "You put on the Amulet of Water.\n\nThe dragon accidentally blows out some fire, which you deflect with the shield.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stumble back until you find your way out of the cave.\n\nA steep cliff marks the start of the mountain range to the west. The mountains continue to the north and south, with no path through above ground in sight. There is a cave in the west cliff wall that may provide a path underground. The cave does not look too dark, as a faint light emanates inside, although you cannot make out any details. You are glad that you are not claustrophobic, although you are not fond of dark holes ever since you had to hide in one on your last mission. A path curves around a water tank, passing from the northeast to the southeast. The water tank has a tap on one side, with a sign above it saying \"Area Water Storage\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The lake, at the end of the river\nThe river from the north reaches its final destination in the lake that you are standing next to. The lake is clean and sparkling in the daylight. The reflected pink sky gives it an unusual colouration. A pump is whirring next to the lake, moving water into a pipe, which leads northwest underground. The pump is now removing water at a similar rate to the river rushing towards the lake. The river's speed means that it is impossible for you to swim north. Next to the pump is an open chest. A path curves around the lake from the northwest to the southeast. A hill can be seen to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the hose to the tank", "response": "You attach the hose to the tap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tap", "response": "You turn the tap on, and the water soon starts spraying out of the end of the hose on the ground. You pick up the hose and aim it into the cave. A burst of fire comes out, but the water cuts through and dissipates it. Soon you can see steam coming from inside the cave, as the water continues to be fired in. You continue for a long while, until eventually when the steam stops, you wait for a few more seconds to make sure, and then turn off the tap.\n\nThe dragon emerges from the cave, and says, \"Thank you so much. I feel a lot better now. I think I can even go see some friends that I haven't seen for ages. There are a few other dragons in this world, although not many outside this region, as there are mainly people elsewhere. Take something from my cave as a reward. I've got to go now.\"\n\nAfter saying this, the dragon takes off and flies in a northerly direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "When you walk inside, you see a lit area, which you stumble in the dark towards.\n\nThere is not much left in this cave apart from ashes scattered around the area. It looks like the dragon's uncontrollable fire breathing problems have not been healthy for the furniture. All that is left is one table and a bed. You could guess that they were lucky, but looking at their pristine condition, a better guess might be that they are brand new. Sunlight is coming in from a hole in the ceiling of the cave that penetrates through to outside the mountain. The cave continues further to the west, but it is too dark to continue. The exit back outside is to the east.\n\nOn the bed is the Amulet of Fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Amulet", "response": "(the Amulet of Water)\nYou already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Fire", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "The Amulet of Fire is made of obsidian. The head of the Princess you saw earlier is carved into the shape of the amulet. A cord allows the amulet to be worn around someone's neck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "You put on the Amulet of Fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nthe Amulet of Fire (being worn)\nthe Amulet of Water (being worn)\nan oar\na sound box\na shield\na small sharp rock\na sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stumble back until you find your way out of the cave.\n\nA steep cliff marks the start of the mountain range to the west. The mountains continue to the north and south, with no path through above ground in sight. There is a cave in the west cliff wall that may provide a path underground. The cave does not look too dark, as a faint light emanates inside, although you cannot make out any details. You are glad that you are not claustrophobic, although you are not fond of dark holes ever since you had to hide in one on your last mission. A path curves around a water tank, passing from the northeast to the southeast. The water tank has a tap on one side, with a sign above it saying \"Area Water Storage\".\n\nA hose is attached to the tap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the fruit with the oar", "response": "Which do you mean, the fruit tree or the fruit remains?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This shop is almost empty. Business looks to have been very bad, as the heavy and undisturbed layer of dust means that no stock has been sold here for too long. On the eastern side are shelves, which only contain a few books and a tin of blue paint. On the western side is a table of food, on which small piles of carrots, mulberry tree leaves and steak sit. The glass counter looks a bit more full and houses some shiny objects, with the most eye-catching being a silver wrench and a gold key. A sign is next to these objects. The only exit is back to the south.\n\nThe Stegosaurus is standing behind the counter. He is wearing the Amulet of Air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Fire to the stegoaurus", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Fire to Stegosaurus", "response": "The shopkeeper accepts the Amulet of Fire, and puts it around his neck. He then tells you that you have one more Amulet to go, before he will give you the Amulet of Air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Water to him", "response": "The shopkeeper accepts the Amulet of Water, and puts it around his neck. After staring at his new possession for a few seconds, he sighs and says \"I suppose you can have this now.\"\n\nThe shopkeeper then takes off the Amulet of Air, and gives it to you. You are glad to have finally obtained the Amulet of Air. However, something is bothering you about the situation you are in. Solving puzzles, carrying out tasks, it all reminds you of something, but you cannot quite place it. You almost wonder if your subconscious is shaping this world from past experiences.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The top of this hill, is a good vantage point, as you can see everywhere from here. Luckily, as you do not want to walk too far, the area surrounding the hill is not that large. It is enclosed by a forest, which you cannot see the end of, to the east, and a mountain range, which you cannot see over, to the west. The two extremes meet at the north and south points of the area. In between you can see a farm to the east, a cave to the west, the Red Tower to the south and a shop to the north. A blanket of grass covers the whole hill, although the grass at the top does look a little flattened.\n\nThe white rabbit is lying asleep on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The boulder, at the base of a hill\nYou are standing at the base of a hill, which you can climb to the north. The undulating, grassy Arcadia almost makes you feel poetic, although your favoured style of limericks does not really fit the mold. A boulder, sitting in the middle of the path leading from the south, diverts the path around it and the hill to the northeast and northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "To the south a very tall tower reaches up into the pink sky, with the man-made structure providing a counterpoint to the surrounding forest and mountains. Near the top of the tower you can see an open window. That window was where you saw the blonde Princess, and where you consequently want to go. The tower must be dark and airless, as the only other visible opening is a large set of closed wooden doors, which block the entrance into the tower. A path leads to the north.\n\nThe gargoyle is standing in front of the tower's entrance, looking at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Amulet to the gargoyle", "response": "When you show the Amulet of Air to the gargoyle, you can see a momentary greedy expression in his gaze, but it is soon replaced by a masked look of indifference. The gargoyle says, \"That is a very nice looking Amulet you have there. I have wanted one just like that for a long, long while. I think it would look good on me. Don't you? Of course you do, and you look like a generous kind of person. Not that I am asking for it. I would never do that.\"\n\nYou smile, as you twirl the Amulet around your hand. Suddenly you toss the Amulet up in the air above the gargoyle. He takes off quickly and grabs it in mid-air. You see him look down at the Amulet, then continue flying upwards. The gargoyle lands on the roof of the Red Tower and disappears from sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the doors", "response": "You open the doors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "There is not much on the inside of this tower. Only stairs are visible, curling upwards around the walls. The amount of stairs does make up for the absence of anything else though. You cannot even see the top of the stairs in this dim light. The light is strange, as it looks artificial and coming from far above, but you have not seen any artificial light in this world. Apart from walking up the stairs, you could always return back outside to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stairs", "response": "There is an impressive quantity of stairs heading upwards. It would be even more impressive to have an elevator instead, but it looks like there aren't any in this place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "You climb up and up until you are almost exhausted. When you finally reach the top you take a short break to catch your breath. For a second in your exhaustion, you almost think that you are on a small ledge in a cave, with walls all around you and a faint light coming from near above you. However, when you look around more carefully you see none of this.\n\nYou cannot believe that you have climbed all of the stairs you can see descending into the near-bottomless dark depths below. You are standing on a small ledge, which connects the stairs with a door to the north. The door is closed, with a piece of wood placed across it to prevent anyone opening it from the other side. There is a dim light here, but you cannot figure out where it is coming from, as you cannot see a light on the ceiling. You estimate that you have about reached the level of the window where you saw the Princess earlier. You hope that you can finally reassure yourself that she is real. Or that she is not real. You do not know what you really want.\n\nYou can see a stone dart here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the wood", "response": "You take the wood off the door and place it on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wood", "response": "The piece of wood is lying next to the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "With a four poster bed, an elegant bedside cabinet and an armoire, this is a beautifully attired room, but it is still not nearly as beautiful as the Princess. She is looking at herself in a full-length mirror hanging on the wall, fixing her long golden hair. You glance into the mirror, but to your surprise you see something that has to be completely different to what she is seeing. You can see a rocky darkness, with a faint light shining from above.\n\nThe Princess glances away from the mirror at the noise of the door opening. She smiles at you, and says, \"Hi, my name is Princess Circe. I have been waiting a long while for someone to come through that door. The last trap that nasty wizard set was triggered a long while ago but no one has come since. Until you, my hero. Now that I am free, I can reclaim my kingdom, but I can't do it alone. Will you help? Will you stay here with me?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) \"Yes, I'd like to stay.\"\n(2) \"No, I don't want to stay.\"\n(3) \"No, I don't believe you exist.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You see a quizzical look start to emerge on the face of the Princess, but you close your eyes to ignore her reaction. You focus inwards, willing yourself to see the real world, not this fake dream. Suddenly you feel yourself falling, and you grab out wildly. Unlike earlier when this whole mess started, you manage to grab hold of something. As your eyes adjust to the darkness you can see that you are in a hole, with the laboratory above you. You haul yourself upwards to a ledge, where you find the gold watch you lost earlier. You pick up the watch and continue to climb upwards until you escape.\n\nBack in the laboratory you place the gold watch in the machine and turn it on. A strange gold liquid remains after it is all mixed together. You find an empty flask and fill it with the liquid. You suddenly realise that you are actually holding your missing communicator. You will need it to get back in contact with the ship. You ensure that you are outside the laboratory before drinking all of the gold liquid.\n\nEverything begins to change around you...\n\nYou are finally back in the real world, with everything looking normal again. You have never been as relieved in your life to be finally free of the nightmare. All you have to do is to report back to the ship and get out of here. As you press the button on the communicator and ask for the Captain, you wonder what you should conclude in your report.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n(1) There is nothing seriously wrong here.\n(2) There are a few problems, but they should be resolved in a few years.\n(3) This place is not safe to be colonised.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing when this planet will be safe. You have the bad feeling that the pinkness is going to spread, not disappear. You cannot allow the planet to be colonised in this condition. It needs to be quarantined, so the pinkness does not spread off-planet. Having made this decision, you gather up your evidence, and report back to the ship.\n\nWhen you talk to the Captain, you tell him about all your adventures. He is skeptical, but he eventually accepts your point of view that the planet is too dangerous to colonise, and he endorses your recommendations. Your stories are put on record with the other evidence. Whilst you may have convinced the Captain, other reviewers of the file feel it is more likely that you hallucinated from a local disease. That disease may make the planet more dangerous, but it may also have left a permanent effect on your health.\n\nIn future years, whenever you try for a promotion, you find yourself rebuffed, as you are too risky. You wonder if you made the right decision. You hope you did, as there is no way you can change it now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Notes", "response": "Thank you for playing my IF competition entry. I hope you enjoyed it. If you did, then I advise you to try some of my other games, which are listed in the \"about\" section that can be accessed during the game. There are seven possible endings. The one you received, plus four others, can still be easily reached by typing \"undo\" and choosing a different option. However, the other two endings can only be reached by acting differently in the fantasy land.\n\nThere are two paths in the game; the Path of Daedalus (a great inventor from Greek myth) and the Path of Diomedes (a great warrior from Greek myth). These paths correspond to solving puzzles with inventive/helpful solutions or violent solutions. The game starts on the Path of Daedalus, but it is possible to completely change the nature of everything to the differently themed parallel world of the Path of Diomedes. Each world better suits the respective method of puzzle solving.\n\nThe first change to the Path of Diomedes is triggered by the decision to persevere with violent solutions to puzzles, rather than helpful solutions. The game will seek to dissuade you from this course of action, but if you persevere then you will succeed, and receive the consequences. The opposite is true in returning the world to the Path of Daedalus. There are a number of points where you can switch, and depending on which path you reach the end on, there will be differences to some of the possible endings.\n\nWould you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, UNDO your last move, give the FULL score for that game, read the author's NOTES or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "As the happy smile of the Princess lights up the room, you notice that the darkness in the mirror fades, until it is replaced by the reflection of the room. You walk out of the tower together, as you accept this world as your own.\n\nAs the months pass, you become friends with the Princess. You soon realise that she is not as perfect as she appears. She regrets some actions that she took to protect herself against the evil wizard. Her trap killed the wizard soon after he sealed her in the tower, but it changed some of the other locals in various ways. You reassure her, and soon there is a general feeling of forgiveness and joy, as she retakes her throne to become Queen.\n\nThis is not quite the end of your story though. Your cleverness soon wins you a position of power, which you use to make sure that the land is governed fairly. With all of her jewels stolen and lost long ago, her reign is hard work at the beginning, but you do not mind. Your friendship with the Queen endures and eventually blossoms into more. Two years after you first met, you are married in front of all the inhabitants of the land. You occasionally wonder what is happening in the world you left long ago, but you have no way of finding out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "The Princess looks disappointed at your reply. She asks, \"Why?\".\n\nYou answer that you want to go home. The Princess looks sympathetic to your plight, then she brightens up and tells you that she knows a way. She walks over and searches around in her cabinet until she finally pulls out a potion. She gives it to you and says, \"Drink this, and you will be home.\"\n\nYou look at the unmarked potion and hope that it can do what she says. It is worth a try. You drink down the potion in one gulp. As it begins to take effect, you find your mind is going blank, and all your memories are fading.\n\nYou wake with no idea of who you are. All you know is that you are stuck in some room, and you want to get outside where there is more space. As you stretch your four legs, you hear a squeal behind you, as a blonde woman says, \"I always wanted a pony.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You think to yourself that none of what you saw could be real. Even if it was, then no one would believe you. You carefully destroy any evidence to the contrary of this position. The evidence was probably only significant in your imagination anyway. It was all due to eating a tainted native egg, which caused an adverse reaction. You can't remember why you wanted to eat it in the first place.\n\nYou report back to the ship that there was a fire, with no survivors. On your return you promise yourself that you will try to avoid strange places in the future. The ship soon returns to your home planet, and you decide to take a long-deserved holiday in the familiar surroundings. You need a break to relax and catch up on all the latest computer games that have been released during your time at work. It is lucky that you are out of contact when the news filters through of disappearances all over a newly colonised planet. That would really not look good on your record, and negligence is not looked upon kindly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "The planet is clearly not safe to be colonised in the short term, but you figure that if everything that is touched by the pinkness soon passes from this world, the problems will soon be resolved. This is the recommendation you pass back to the ship, along with the evidence that you have accumulated. You avoid talking about your own exploits, as the Captain is a very serious person, who you think will only believe evidence he sees for himself.\n\nThe Captain is doubtful about the truthfulness of the documents you bring back, but on your advice, he agrees that it is not worth taking a chance. He reluctantly passes your recommendation through the hierarchy, and this planet is taken off the colonisation agenda for the next twenty years.\n\nOver the next few years you continue your rapid rise up the ranks, with sterling performances in both the physical and mental aspects of your roles. Eventually you are placed into training for a top position, and on completion you win a role as a Captain of your own ship. It is only a small ship, but you are finally in charge. You barely notice when the twenty year mark is passed, having long put your earlier adventures out of mind.\n\nAt least your adventures are forgotten until one day you are called in by your commanding officer. He shows you a report of disappearances on a newly colonised planet, along with your recommendation for the planet. He tells you that he is very disappointed in you, and he cannot support you continuing in your current role. Your exemplary service will save you from being stripped of your rank, but you have been re-assigned to the planetside division.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the dart", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing when this planet will be safe. You have the bad feeling that the pinkness is going to spread, not disappear. You cannot allow the planet to be colonised in this condition. It needs to be quarantined, so the pinkness does not spread off-planet. Having made this decision, you gather up your evidence, and report back to the ship.\n\nWhen you talk to the Captain, you tell him about all your adventures. He is skeptical, but he eventually accepts your point of view that the planet is too dangerous to colonise, and he endorses your recommendations. Your stories are put on record with the other evidence. Whilst you may have convinced the Captain, other reviewers of the file feel it is more likely that you hallucinated from a local disease. That disease may make the planet more dangerous, but it may also have left a permanent effect on your health.\n\nIn future years, whenever you try for a promotion, you find yourself rebuffed, as you are too risky. You wonder if you made the right decision. You hope you did, as there is no way you can change it now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the box", "response": "You turn on the box briefly, and a loud screech echoes around the area. Nothing happens, so you decide to shut down the noise before it starts again.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "There is not much on the inside of this tower. Only stairs are visible, curling upwards around the walls. The amount of stairs does make up for the absence of anything else though. You cannot even see the top of the stairs in this dim light. The light is strange, as it looks artificial and coming from far above, but you have not seen any artificial light in this world. Apart from walking up the stairs, you could always return back outside to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "To the south a very tall tower reaches up into the pink sky, with the man-made structure providing a counterpoint to the surrounding forest and mountains. Near the top of the tower you can see an open window. That window was where you saw the blonde Princess, and where you consequently want to go. The tower must be dark and airless, as the only other visible opening is a large set of open wooden doors. A path leads to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A mountain range blocks your progress in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the dart at the Bird", "response": "Futile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "A steep cliff marks the start of the mountain range to the west. The mountains continue to the north and south, with no path through above ground in sight. There is a cave in the west cliff wall that may provide a path underground. The cave does not look too dark, as a faint light emanates inside, although you cannot make out any details. You are glad that you are not claustrophobic, although you are not fond of dark holes ever since you had to hide in one on your last mission. A path curves around a water tank, passing from the northeast to the southeast. The water tank has a tap on one side, with a sign above it saying \"Area Water Storage\".\n\nA hose is attached to the tap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "When you walk inside, you see a lit area, which you stumble in the dark towards.\n\nThere is not much left in this cave apart from ashes scattered around the area. It looks like the dragon's uncontrollable fire breathing problems have not been healthy for the furniture. All that is left is one table and a bed. You could guess that they were lucky, but looking at their pristine condition, a better guess might be that they are brand new. Sunlight is coming in from a hole in the ceiling of the cave that penetrates through to outside the mountain. The cave continues further to the west, but it is too dark to continue. The exit back outside is to the east.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Surreal Fantasy" ]

[ "built-in hints", "gender-neutral protagonist", "IntroComp", "walkthrough", "wordplay" ]

[ 2, 4, 4, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "You examine professor", "response": "No doubt the good professor would have loved to be the one to fill his alphabet case, but the man was always more of an academic. He has always been an inspiration to you, even now that his age is catching up to him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour alphabet case (A, E, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the case", "response": "Your alphabet case holds your collection of letters. Currently, it has the letters A, E, and T.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You deftly arrange the letters in the frame, just like you've practiced a thousand times. You produce a cup of bergamot, the professor's favorite.\n\nBetween sips, the professor begins reminiscing. \"You know, I've been studying the alphabet for most of a lifetime now. I always knew I wouldn't be the one to hunt down the unknown letters -- I'm not much for traveling, as you know. So I've kept my eyes open for the one who would fulfill my ambition. In all these years, I have only met a handful of people that showed the passion and aptitude for spelling that would be required for such a venture.\"\n\nProfessor Spruce takes a final swill of his teacup and looks you square in the eyes. \"You should know that this is not our first attempt at an expedition to Phoenicia. There was one other, a colleague of mine, that we were preparing to send. The expedition ended in failure before it could even begin. No orthographer has ever set foot in Phoenicia.\" He takes a look at you before continuing. \"I don't mean to alarm you. I only want you to understand the significance of your journey. You know as well as I do the importance and power of the alphabet. The Institute exists to ensure that the alphabet is used responsibly, and -- well, I'm preaching to the choir, aren't I? I wish you the best of luck on your voyage. We are all counting on you to return with the complete alphabet.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "Today may be the most important day of your life, but for the rest of Aleph City, it's Tuesday. The streets are busy as ever, and you see a few familiar faces among the hustle and bustle. None of that matters to you. You have a mission.\n\nThe Institute of Orthographic Studies is north of here, and far to the east is the wilderness of Phoenicia, theorized by Professor Spruce to contain the unknown letters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of oolong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of Earl Grey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of peppermint tea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of jasmine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of rooibos.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of iced tea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "All of Phoenicia lies before you, ready for you to explore. You're not the first to explore Phoenicia -- that honor goes to Jerome Phoenix, for whom the region is named -- but you are the first orthographer to come here in search of the alphabet.\n\nThis particular area is a little bare, though. Undoubtedly, there's something more interesting to the northeast, east, and southeast. Aleph City is far away to the west.\n\nThe ground shakes a little beneath your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ground", "response": "There's very little I can tell you about the ground that won't come across as incredibly patronizing.\n\nThe ground shakes a little beneath your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself in a grassy clearing. The landscape is thoroughly unremarkable here, but you can see the edge of Phoenicia Forest to the south, Lake Phoenicia to the east, and a large brick structure to the north. To your west is the area where you first set foot here.\n\nThe ground shakes a little beneath your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stand at the bank of Lake Phoenicia. It's certainly not as majestic as you might have hoped: the water is a dank brown and the whole thing smells vaguely swampy. The lake is certainly vast, though: the only way forward from here is back to the west where you came from.\n\nA log floats in the water nearby.\n\nThe letter C -- one of the unknown letters -- floats in the water a little ways from the shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the C", "response": "Hold on -- that log is a crocodile!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the C", "response": "You'd have to get a little wet in the process, but otherwise only the crocodile is stopping you from taking the letter C.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the crocodile", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crocodile", "response": "The crocodile lies in wait, looking very much like a log. Only on careful inspection do you notice that the crocodile is very much alert.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell aet", "response": "\"aet\" isn't a word. Don't you know the dangers of reckless alphabet usage?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shout", "response": "(to the crocodile)\nThe crocodile has nothing to say.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You stand at the bank of Lake Phoenicia. It's certainly not as majestic as you might have hoped: the water is a dank brown and the whole thing smells vaguely swampy. The lake is certainly vast, though: the only way forward from here is back to the west where you came from.\n\nA crocodile is in the water nearby, keeping intruders away.\n\nThe letter C -- one of the unknown letters -- floats in the water a little ways from the shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You find yourself in a grassy clearing. The landscape is thoroughly unremarkable here, but you can see the edge of Phoenicia Forest to the south, Lake Phoenicia to the east, and a large brick structure to the north. To your west is the area where you first set foot here.\n\nThe ground shakes a little beneath your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The trees are sufficiently sparse to allow grass to grow in this area, but there are still enough of them to consider this part of the forest. The forest continues to the southeast. You can also head north or northwest from here.\n\nAn elephant is relaxing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine elephant", "response": "A large, gray pachyderm with floppy ears, ivory tusks, and a long, prehensile trunk. You're no zoologist, but it seems like any other elephant, really.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "You spend a few minutes climbing to the top of a tree, which affords you a marginally nicer vantage point of the area you were already able to see. At least you had fun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of iced tea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "The trees are incredibly dense in this area, and there's no trail to follow. Were it not for your innate talent at recognizing cardinal directions, you could easily get lost in here.\n\nTo the northwest and northeast, the forest begins to thin out. You see a small tunnel leading underground to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You wriggle and crawl through the cramped tunnel. Whatever's on the other side had better be worth it and not, like, a giant fleshworm or something.\n\nOh, great. It's a hole full of rat-dragons. This was so not\nworth it. To make matters worse, this place isn't quite tall enough to stand in, so you're hunched over just a bit. This is giving you a neckache. But wait -- the letter G is here. One of the unknown letters!\n\nA large fire lights the room from the western wall, and to the side is a large pile of sticks. The tunnel leading to the surface is to the north.\n\nThe kobolds are huddled around the letter G on the southern edge of this little hole.\n\nThe letter G -- one of the unknown letters -- sits unguarded at the south end of the warren.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the g.", "response": "You edge closer to the south end of the warren where the kobolds are congregated, and they begin to notice you. A chorus of hisses makes its way through the crowd, then the kobolds begin to bark at you.\n\n\"The human can't have our treasure!\"\n\n\"The human wasn't invited here!\"\n\n\"The human came in without knocking!\"\n\n\"We don't have a door, dummy!\"\n\n\"How did the human get in here if we don't have a door?\"\n\n\"The human must be a wizard!\"\n\nAnd then the voices become muddled as the kobolds talk amongst themselves. After several seconds, they all quiet down at once. One of them calls out, \"Show us your magic, wizard!\" The other kobolds roar in approval.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of peppermint tea.\n\nThe kobolds seem puzzled. Clearly, your remarkable mastery of the alphabet was not \"magical\" enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour alphabet case (A, E, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell eat", "response": "You don't need the alphabet's help to eat, and if you don't have something to eat, then this isn't the word you're looking for.\n\nThe kobolds seem puzzled. Clearly, your remarkable mastery of the alphabet was not \"magical\" enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the g.", "response": "The throng of kobolds blocks your way. You hear several cries of \"Show us your magic, wizard!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The trees clear out on the east to reveal a precipice overlooking a beautiful rainbow. Far below, you see a waterfall flowing from a gap in the cliff wall that turns into a winding river. There is an outcropping nearby on which lies the letter S -- one of the unknown letters!\n\nYou can return to the denser area of the forest to your southwest, or you can follow the cliff edge to the north.\n\nThe letter S sits on the outcropping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the south", "response": "As you approach the outcropping, a small man dressed in green hops up from the other side and snatches the letter! You're torn between being annoyed and wondering how long he was hanging there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "A small man with curly red hair and an outfit of dark green holds the letter S. He dances manically, hopping to and fro as if he weighed nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "The leprechaun responds by blowing a raspberry and laughing derisively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of green tea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The trees clear out on the east to reveal a precipice overlooking a beautiful rainbow. Far below, you see a waterfall flowing from a gap in the cliff wall that turns into a winding river. There is an outcropping nearby, which is bare now that the leprechaun has taken the letter S.\n\nYou can return to the denser area of the forest to your southwest, or you can follow the cliff edge to the north.\n\nA sprightly leprechaun dances around you waving the letter S.\n\nThe sight of the leprechaun fills you with annoyance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The forest gives way to reveal a lofty brick structure. There is a large archway facing you, through which you could access the interior were it not for a massive hole underneath. No, wait, holes can't be massive -- that doesn't make sense. Let's just call it a big hole.\n\nThe path ends here: any further north and you'll have left Phoenicia, and the cliff is still to your east. You'll have to head back south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the hole", "response": "You'd get stuck. Isn't that the pits?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You're back at the area where you first set foot in Phoenicia. There's little worth mentioning here. Undoubtedly, there's something more interesting to the northeast, east, and southeast. Aleph City is far away to the west.\n\nThe ground shakes a little beneath your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This clearing is notable for the great wall that occupies its eastern edge, where an archway connects this clearing to the Phoenician ruins that lie beyond. Oh, and there is an enormous cyclops moping listlessly here, which is probably worth mentioning.\n\nBesides the ruins to the east, you can travel southwest to where you first arrived or south to a more open area.\n\nThe cyclops occupies the entire archway and then some.\n\nThe ground shakes as the cyclops's stomach roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of chamomile.\n\nThe ground shakes as the cyclops's stomach roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell eat", "response": "The cyclops looks around for something to eat, but he only finds one thing that might possibly be edible.\n\nYears of orthographic training should have driven home the correct way to use the known letters for satiation, but hey, we all make mistakes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell ate", "response": "The ground shakes one last time as the cyclops delivers a thundering burp that knocks you from your feet. He stands up and stretches, then collapses in a deep sleep, but not before moving just enough to allow passage into the ruins.\n\nThe cyclops snores loudly.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "This clearing is notable for the great wall that occupies its eastern edge, where an archway connects this clearing to the Phoenician ruins that lie beyond.\n\nBesides the ruins to the east, you can travel southwest to where you first arrived or south to a more open area.\n\nThe cyclops is sleeping just to the side of the archway.\n\nThe cyclops snores loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The air is stale, and the walls are netted with cobwebs, but otherwise, these ruins are in marvelous condition. You're here for orthography, though, not archaeology, so your eyes are immediately drawn to the wall mural that clearly depicts the letter R -- one of the unknown letters! If you take it from the wall, you can add it to your alphabet case.\n\nThe archway to the west leads back outside, and a staircase leads down into the dark subterrain of the ruins.\n\nThe letter R is yours for the taking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take r.", "response": "You insert R into your alphabet case, adding its power to the three letters you already possess.\n\nYou can now spell words that contain the letter R.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "It's very dark down here. The top staircase is illuminated from the sunlight up above, but aside from that, you can't see a thing down here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "These halls have been your home for the past several years. It was here that you learned how to arrange the known letters into words, to recognize the unknown letters, and to introduce them to your alphabet case. These skills are sure to come in handy very soon.\n\nThe entrance doors are south of here, through which you can see the bustle of the city.\n\nYou can see Professor Spruce here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Spruce", "response": "No doubt the good professor would have loved to be the one to fill his alphabet case, but the man was always more of an academic. He has always been an inspiration to you, even now that his age is catching up to him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Today may be the most important day of your life, but for the rest of Aleph City, it's Tuesday. The streets are busy as ever, and you see a few familiar faces among the hustle and bustle. None of that matters to you. You have a mission.\n\nThe Institute of Orthographic Studies is north of here, and far to the east is the wilderness of Phoenicia, theorized by Professor Spruce to contain the unknown letters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the ground", "response": "You hear nothing unexpected.\n\nThe ground shakes a little beneath your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "This clearing is notable for the great wall that occupies its eastern edge, where an archway connects this clearing to the Phoenician ruins that lie beyond. Oh, and there is an enormous cyclops moping listlessly here, which is probably worth mentioning.\n\nBesides the ruins to the east, you can travel southwest to where you first arrived or south to a more open area.\n\nThe cyclops occupies the entire archway and then some.\n\nThe ground shakes as the cyclops's stomach roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at cyclops", "response": "Easily twice and probably three times your height, this is one of the one-eyed giants known as cyclopes. They're not as stupid or mean as ogres or trolls, although it's common for a cyclops to have trouble concentrating on more than one thing at a time. This one is just sitting there looking despondent, probably on account of his empty stomach that's been causing these minor earthquakes.\n\nThe ground shakes as the cyclops's stomach roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to cyclops", "response": "The forlorn cyclops fixes his eye on you. \"No talk,\" he says. \"Huuungry.\"\n\nThe ground shakes as the cyclops's stomach roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tea", "response": "You enjoy a cup of green tea.\n\nThe ground shakes as the cyclops's stomach roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell eat", "response": "The cyclops looks around for something to eat, but he only finds one thing that might possibly be edible.\n\nYears of orthographic training should have driven home the correct way to use the known letters for satiation, but hey, we all make mistakes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ruins", "response": "The ruins are in remarkably good shape given their age. The vines crawling up the bricks of the outer walls are the biggest indication that the ruins have been long abandoned.\n\nThe cyclops snores loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour alphabet case (A, E, and T)\na three-letter frame\n\nThe cyclops snores loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vines", "response": "The vines run in jagged lines up the outer edge of the Phoenician ruins.\n\nThe cyclops snores loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the vines", "response": "You've never been much of a climber, and the vines isn't really made for climbing.\n\nThe cyclops snores loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The air is stale, and the walls are netted with cobwebs, but otherwise, these ruins are in marvelous condition. You're here for orthography, though, not archaeology, so your eyes are immediately drawn to the wall mural that clearly depicts the letter R -- one of the unknown letters! If you take it from the wall, you can add it to your alphabet case.\n\nThe archway to the west leads back outside, and a staircase leads down into the dark subterrain of the ruins.\n\nThe letter R is yours for the taking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rat", "response": "A rodent of modest size appears out of thin air. After getting its bearings, it scampers off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell ear", "response": "You produce a third ear, square on your forehead. It's unsightly and it feels really weird, so you send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "It's very dark down here. The top staircase is illuminated from the sunlight up above, but aside from that, you can't see a thing down here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "The air is stale, and the walls are netted with cobwebs, but otherwise, these ruins are in marvelous condition. You're here for orthography, though, not archaeology, so you're unequipped to fully appreciate this.\n\nThe archway to the west leads back outside, and a staircase leads down into the dark subterrain of the ruins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell at", "response": "\"at\" is too short; you have to completely fill a letter frame in order for it to work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This clearing is notable for the great wall that occupies its eastern edge, where an archway connects this clearing to the Phoenician ruins that lie beyond.\n\nBesides the ruins to the east, you can travel southwest to where you first arrived or south to a more open area.\n\nThe cyclops is sleeping just to the side of the archway.\n\nThe cyclops snores loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "You're back at the area where you first set foot in Phoenicia. There's little worth mentioning here. Undoubtedly, there's something more interesting to the northeast, east, and southeast. Aleph City is far away to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself in a grassy clearing. The landscape is thoroughly unremarkable here, but you can see the edge of Phoenicia Forest to the south, Lake Phoenicia to the east, and a large brick structure to the north. To your west is the area where you first set foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tar", "response": "Better not. Your hands and pockets would get sticky -- it'd be a real mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You remove your shoes and socks and wade into the water a little, keeping an eye on the crocodile. It doesn't move, so you hesitantly edge towards the letter C. As you reach for it, the crocodile springs into action, moving more freely in the water than you could hope to. It turns out to be a better aquatic combatant than you, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You can't go that way. From here, you can go west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You find yourself in a grassy clearing. The landscape is thoroughly unremarkable here, but you can see the edge of Phoenicia Forest to the south, Lake Phoenicia to the east, and a large brick structure to the north. To your west is the area where you first set foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rat", "response": "You produce a rodent of modest size. The elephant notices it and runs off to the north in abject terror. The rat, not too fond of the elephant, runs off in the opposite direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You find yourself in a grassy clearing. The landscape is thoroughly unremarkable here, but you can see the edge of Phoenicia Forest to the south, Lake Phoenicia to the east, and a large brick structure to the north. To your west is the area where you first set foot here.\n\nThe elephant is here, looking a bit spooked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rat", "response": "You produce another rat. The elephant raises its front feet off the ground in surprise, then stomps off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stand at the bank of Lake Phoenicia. It's certainly not as majestic as you might have hoped: the water is a dank brown and the whole thing smells vaguely swampy. The lake is certainly vast, though: the only way forward from here is back to the west where you came from.\n\nThe elephant has taken up residence in the lake.\n\nA crocodile is swimming through the lake far from here. It seems to be keeping its distance from the elephant.\n\nThe letter C -- one of the unknown letters -- floats in the water a little ways from the shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the C", "response": "You remove your shoes and socks and wade into the water. With the elephant nearby, the crocodile keeps its distance, and you easily reach the letter. You insert C into your alphabet case, adding its power to the four letters you already possess.\n\nYou can now spell words that contain the letter C.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell cat", "response": "You produce a colorful calico. It's a skittish thing, and it darts away as it notices you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell ace", "response": "A card (the ace of diamonds) appears in your hand. It would bend in your pockets, so you send it back with a poof. Nice trick, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell act", "response": "You put on a small play, using your hands as puppets. The crocodile is unamused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell arc", "response": "The image of a curve shimmers briefly in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell car", "response": "You produce a shiny red Ferrari. It's impressive, but the automobile won't be invented for quite some time still, so you have no clue how to operate it. You send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rec", "response": "You enjoy a little recreation. Happy now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell art", "response": "You produce a copy of The Scream. It's good, but is it art?\n\nWell, in this case, it's a forgery, and it's too big to carry around, so you send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The trees are sufficiently sparse to allow grass to grow in this area, but there are still enough of them to consider this part of the forest. The forest continues to the southeast. You can also head north or northwest from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stick", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell art", "response": "You produce a copy of Persistence of Memory. It's good, but is it art?\n\nWell, in this case, it's a forgery, and it's too big to carry around, so you send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light stick", "response": "The stick as it stands would burn out quickly. If you want a light source, you'll need a proper torch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell cat", "response": "You produce a poofy Scottish Fold. It's a skittish thing, and it darts away as it notices you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rat", "response": "A rodent of modest size appears out of thin air. After getting its bearings, it scampers off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stick\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, R, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine kobolds", "response": "Kobolds are to dragons what chihuahuas are to golden retrievers, except that some people find chihuahuas endearing. The kobolds are gathered around the letter G, ignoring you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at fire", "response": "The fire suggests some method of exhaust, since the warren isn't filled with smoke, but you didn't notice anything above ground. This makes you a little curious, but not curious enough to attempt a conversation with the kobolds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tar", "response": "Better not. Your hands and pockets would get sticky -- it'd be a real mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell ear", "response": "You produce a third ear, square on your forehead. It's unsightly and it feels really weird, so you send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell act", "response": "You put on a small play, using your hands as puppets. The leprechaun is unamused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell arc", "response": "The image of a curve shimmers briefly in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell cat", "response": "You produce a colorful calico. It's a skittish thing, and it darts away as it notices you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The forest gives way to reveal a lofty brick structure. There is a large archway facing you, through which you could access the interior were it not for a massive hole underneath. No, wait, holes can't be massive -- that doesn't make sense. Let's just call it a big hole.\n\nThe path ends here: any further north and you'll have left Phoenicia, and the cliff is still to your east. You'll have to head back south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tar", "response": "Better not. Your hands and pockets would get sticky -- it'd be a real mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "The hole is large and deep, and the edges are sheer enough to make it very difficult to escape. There's nothing in the hole, fortunately, so you can just avoid it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stick\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, R, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the archway", "response": "A tall archway provides entrance to the ruins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell car", "response": "You produce a shiny white Lamborghini. It's impressive, but the automobile won't be invented for quite some time still, so you have no clue how to operate it. You send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can't go that way. From here, you can go south.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The forest gives way to reveal a lofty brick structure. There is a large archway facing you, through which you could access the interior were it not for a large hole underneath.\n\nThe path ends here: any further north and you'll have left Phoenicia, and the cliff is still to your east. You'll have to head back south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "That's a long way down, friend.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The trees clear out on the east to reveal a precipice overlooking a beautiful rainbow. Far below, you see a waterfall flowing from a gap in the cliff wall that turns into a winding river. There is an outcropping nearby, which is bare now that the leprechaun has taken the letter S.\n\nYou can return to the denser area of the forest to your southwest, or you can follow the cliff edge to the north.\n\nA sprightly leprechaun dances around you waving the letter S.\n\nThe sight of the leprechaun fills you with annoyance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell are", "response": "You are. At least you think so.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell ear", "response": "You produce a third ear, square on your forehead. It's unsightly and it feels really weird, so you send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tac", "response": "\"tac\" isn't a word. Don't you know the dangers of reckless alphabet usage?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rac", "response": "\"rac\" isn't a word. Don't you know the dangers of reckless alphabet usage?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stick\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, R, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The trees clear out on the east to reveal a precipice overlooking a beautiful rainbow. Far below, you see a waterfall flowing from a gap in the cliff wall that turns into a winding river. There is an outcropping nearby, which is bare now that the leprechaun has taken the letter S.\n\nYou can return to the denser area of the forest to your southwest, or you can follow the cliff edge to the north.\n\nA sprightly leprechaun dances around you waving the letter S.\n\nThe sight of the leprechaun fills you with annoyance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "Far below, the river heads east for a bit before snaking in a northwesterly direction. The water is calm outside the occasional eddy.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "That's a long way down, friend.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tar", "response": "You produce a pile of sticky goo directly under the leprechaun. He jumps out of it as quickly as possible and resumes his annoying dance, but his shoes are coated in tar, making his jumps slightly awkward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the south", "response": "The leprechaun is unable to escape your grasp, and you easily take the letter from him. You insert S into your alphabet case, adding its power to the five letters you already possess.\n\nYou can now spell words that contain the letter S.\n\nThe leprechaun is dispirited at the loss of his treasure. He trudges back to the cliff and jumps off. How awfully dramatic! You rush to stop him, but he's already gone -- disappeared off to wherever leprechauns go when they're not tormenting poor explorers, it seems, and not a suicide after all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell sat", "response": "You suddenly recall sitting in a lecture by Professor Spruce. You sat like a real professional.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na stick\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, R, S, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The forest gives way to reveal a lofty brick structure. There is a large archway facing you, through which you could access the interior were it not for a large hole underneath.\n\nThe path ends here: any further north and you'll have left Phoenicia, and the cliff is still to your east. You'll have to head back south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell sea", "response": "Whatever problem you're having is unlikely to be helped by millions of gallons of water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell ace", "response": "A card (the ace of clubs) appears in your hand. It would bend in your pockets, so you send it back with a poof. Nice trick, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The trees clear out on the east to reveal a precipice overlooking a beautiful rainbow. Far below, you see a waterfall flowing from a gap in the cliff wall that turns into a winding river. There is an outcropping nearby where you found the letter S.\n\nYou can return to the denser area of the forest to your southwest, or you can follow the cliff edge to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The trees are incredibly dense in this area, and there's no trail to follow. Were it not for your innate talent at recognizing cardinal directions, you could easily get lost in here.\n\nTo the northwest and northeast, the forest begins to thin out. You see a small tunnel leading underground to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're back in the kobold warren, despite your preference to be almost literally anywhere else. As always, this place isn't quite tall enough to stand in, so you're hunched over just a bit. This is giving you a neckache. But wait -- the letter G is here. One of the unknown letters!\n\nA large fire lights the room from the western wall, and to the side is a large pile of sticks. The tunnel leading to the surface is to the north.\n\nThe kobolds are huddled around the letter G on the southern edge of this little hole.\n\nThe letter G -- one of the unknown letters -- sits unguarded at the south end of the warren.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell ace", "response": "\"Wanna see some magic?\" you say. The kobolds stop what they're doing and look your way. You produce an ace of spades from thin air, and the kobolds ooh and ahh. When you send the card back with a poof, there is a wave of gasps. The kobolds applaud and gather around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell act", "response": "You put on what is surely the worst magic act ever performed, spelling various words and sending them back. The kobolds are highly entertained, though, since this might as well be magic to them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the g.", "response": "Now that the kobolds are enthralled by your, ahem,\nperformance, you have no trouble budging through to the\nletter G. You insert G into your alphabet case, adding its power to the six letters you already possess.\n\nYou can now spell words that contain the letter G.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell gas", "response": "Hmm. That didn't do anything obvious, but you can smell something in the air now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell sag", "response": "You feel your cheeks droop a bit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tag", "response": "You tag the kobolds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rag", "response": "You produce dirty scrap of cloth. Good for you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the rag to stick", "response": "You wrap the rag tightly around the stick. If you soaked it in something more flammable, then it would make a good torch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tar", "response": "Better not. Your hands and pockets would get sticky -- it'd be a real mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell art", "response": "You produce a copy of the Creation of Adam. It's good, but is it art?\n\nWell, in this case, it's a forgery, and it's too big to carry around, so you send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stick\na rag\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, G, R, S, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell car", "response": "You produce a shiny red Ferrari. It's impressive, but the automobile won't be invented for quite some time still, so you have no clue how to operate it. You send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell gar", "response": "A needlefish appears out of thin air. You have no need for it at the moment and it would be cumbersome to carry around, so you send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stand at the bank of Lake Phoenicia. It's certainly not as majestic as you might have hoped: the water is a dank brown and the whole thing smells vaguely swampy. The lake is certainly vast, though: the only way forward from here is back to the west where you came from.\n\nThe elephant has taken up residence in the lake.\n\nA crocodile is swimming through the lake far from here. It seems to be keeping its distance from the elephant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell gar", "response": "You produce a needlefish, which splashes into the lake and swims off. It wants nothing to do with the crocodile or elephant, nor they with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rat", "response": "You produce another rat, startling the elephant once again. The elephant trumpets loudly and, seeing no other exit, storms off to the west.\n\nHey, that's where you were standing, wasn't it? Oops!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hole", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downward", "response": "Whether you meant down the hole or down the cliff, you'd have a hard time getting back up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "The ruins are in remarkably good shape given their age. The vines crawling up the bricks of the outer walls are the biggest indication that the ruins have been long abandoned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The trees clear out on the east to reveal a precipice overlooking a beautiful rainbow. Far below, you see a waterfall flowing from a gap in the cliff wall that turns into a winding river. There is an outcropping nearby where you found the letter S.\n\nYou can return to the denser area of the forest to your southwest, or you can follow the cliff edge to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can't go that way. From here, you can go northwest, south, and northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell sac", "response": "You produce an anal sac. It's really gross and not obviously useful, so you send it back with a poof and a grimace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're back in the kobold warren, despite your preference to be almost literally anywhere else. As always, this place isn't quite tall enough to stand in, so you're hunched over just a bit. This is giving you a neckache.\n\nA large fire lights the room from the western wall, and to the side is a large pile of sticks. The tunnel leading to the surface is to the north.\n\nAs the kobolds notice you enter, they gather around you once again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stick\na rag\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, G, R, S, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stick", "response": "You already snagged one. It's probably best to limit the amount you steal from the kobolds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell set", "response": "Unbelievable! You've produced a complete set of those wooden soldiers that your parents would never buy for you. These are worth a fortune nowadays. You have no use for them at the moment, of course, so you send them back with a poof and make a mental note to make another set once you get back to Aleph City.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell etc", "response": "\"etc\" isn't a word. Don't you know the dangers of reckless alphabet usage?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell arg", "response": "\"arg\" isn't a word. Don't you know the dangers of reckless alphabet usage?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell get", "response": "You could, you know, just take whatever you're after. This is one word that you don't need to spell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell reg", "response": "You reminisce on the Institute's \"Regulations for Proper Alphabet Use.\"\n\nRule #2: No one shall engage in spelling while intoxicated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell erg", "response": "Reaching deep to the bottom of our vocabulary barrel, are we? Obscure words aren't required to win.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell ret", "response": "That word isn't especially helpful unless you're playing a certain board game.\n\nYou're not.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "HINT", "response": "Try HINT TOPIC for hints on a specific topic. For example, if\nyou're having trouble slaying the dragon, try HINT DRAGON.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint torch", "response": "A torch is more than just a stick. Before you can light it, you need to put an accelerant onto some kind of absorbent material -- such as cloth -- and wrap it around one end. Try HINT ACCELERANT or\nHINT CLOTH if you're still stuck.\n\nYou'll also need a source of fire to get it going. You've seen one somewhere already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint accelerant", "response": "An accelerant is a highly flammable substance, like lighter fluid. There's something matching this description that you can spell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint tar", "response": "You're already off to a good start!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell gas", "response": "You produce a cloud of gasoline and soak the stick in it. Just add fire and you've got a light source.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stick in fire", "response": "Before the torch even touches the dancing flames, the fumes ignite and the torch bursts into life. Congratulations: you've got a light.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The light of your torch dances on the walls of the walls of the Phoenician underground. To step down into these ruins is to step into history itself.\n\nThe stairs lead up to the surface, and this corridor continues to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The air down here is dry. From your admittedly limited exposure to spelunking, you had expected humid air and the occasional drip, but the Phoenician architecture holds watertight after all these years.\n\nThe corridor continues to the west and east.\n\nThe letter O hangs on a mural on the stone wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the o.", "response": "You begin to approach the mural when your ears perk up. What was that noise? You stand still and listen. Footsteps, coming from the other direction.\n\nTo the east, another light approaches. You strain to see a human woman who appears just as surprised to see you. You are considerably more surprised, however, when you notice what she's carrying: an alphabet case and a letter frame. An orthographer? But you're the only one the Institute authorized to explore Phoenicia!\n\nDumbfounded as you are, you have no time to react as the woman arranges letters into her frame. The first two letters are unfamiliar, and you can barely see her slide T into the last slot when a gaping hole opens beneath you, dropping you into...\n\nYour landing was hardly comfortable, but you have only scrapes and bruises to show for it. The real problem is that the walls of the pit offer no means of purchase. Fortunately, you've retained your possessions, and you even managed to avoid burning yourself with the torch. All told, you're in great shape aside from being in this pit.\n\nThe overall look of this hole brings to mind the one that you saw in the eastern ruins entrance. It occurs to you that your rival orthographer was probably responsible for that as well, meaning she's had more time than you to explore the ruins. Judging from the word she spelled, your new friend has at least two of the unknown letters. This is a serious problem: you're going to need those letters. You'd better be on your toes next time the two of you meet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na torch (providing light)\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, G, R, S, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell sea", "response": "You inhale sharply, hold your breath, and arrange the letters. You are slammed to the ground by a crushing load of water, and it's all you can do to keep your breath from being knocked out of you. Suddenly, you question the wisdom of this course of action. The torch has been extinguished and your possessions have been scattered. The wet torch is easy enough to find, but you spend precious seconds groping the floor for the case and frame. Seizing them, you swim as quickly as you can in the direction of the only light you can now see. Your breath gives out before you make it there, and just as you inhale a lungful of sea water, it occurs to you to dismiss the sea, sending it back with a poof.\n\nYou cough and strain for air, but as you do, you hear a distant howl echoing through the tunnels. As you gather your things and head back to the surface, a grin reaches your lips. Somewhere deep in the catacombs below, the woman who tried to thwart your mission is fumbling around in the darkness. Being dropped in a pit was unpleasant for you, and having to rekindle your torch is a little inconvenient, but you have dealt her a major setback. After making sure your alphabet case survived the ordeal and returning to the kobold warren to relight your torch, you're ready to go.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "The air is stale, and the walls are netted with cobwebs, but otherwise, these ruins are in marvelous condition. You're here for orthography, though, not archaeology, so you're unequipped to fully appreciate this.\n\nThe archway to the west leads back outside, and a staircase leads down into the dark subterrain of the ruins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The air down here is dry. From your admittedly limited exposure to spelunking, you had expected humid air and the occasional drip, but the Phoenician architecture holds watertight after all these years.\n\nThe corridor continues to the west and east. There's also a gaping hole in the ground here which you have no desire to revisit.\n\nThe mural on the wall is unsurprisingly bare. Your new acquaintance has taken its letter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The relatively tight corridor makes way here to a cavernous stairway that descends south into abyssal darkness. The dust and cobwebs fail to conceal the majesty of the stonework. You can't help but be awestruck.\n\nThe north wall is decorated by a mural bare of any letter. The other orthographer came from this direction; she must have taken this mural's letter.\n\nBesides the staircase, you can go east and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The corridor once again narrows to the east of the staircase. The corridor seems to be east-west symmetric about the staircase: a mural (once again bare) adorns the north wall again, and far to the east, you see a glimmer of sunlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "As you'd expected, a staircase here ascends into daylight. The corridor ends here otherwise; the grand staircase is clearly the focus of this corridor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You find yourself on the other side of the large hole that you discovered earlier. There is a mural on the wall here, too, unsurprisingly bereft of its letter. No prizes for guessing what happened here.\n\nWith the large hole effectively blocking the archway, your only option is to head back down into the ruins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "As you descend the gigantic staircase, your jaw drops. And it keeps dropping.\n\nThe ceiling is no longer visible with the light from your torch. Through its inadequate glow, great structures rise to meet you. An entire city is down here.\n\nThe heart of the underground city is south of here, and the staircase rises to the north.\n\nOn the polished stone ahead is a four-letter frame, covered with the same centuries of dust as everything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the frame", "response": "(the four-letter frame)\nYour hands tremble in anticipation as you pick up the four-letter frame. You blow the dust off of it and polish it with your sleeve. Hundreds of years ago, a real, living Phoenician spelled words with this, using all twenty-six letters of the alphabet. Now, that power is yours.\n\nYou can now spell four-letter words.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell seat", "response": "You produce a seat, something like a chair but with no legs. It doesn't stay up on its own, which makes it pretty useless. You send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell gear", "response": "You produce a small brass cog.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cog", "response": "A small, thick brass disc with teeth around the side to interlock with other, similar items.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell sega", "response": "\"Sega\" isn't a word. Don't you know the dangers of reckless alphabet usage?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You've reached the end of the IntroComp release of Spellbound. I hope you have enjoyed your time in Phoenicia. If you are anxious to see more of the game, you can experiment with the four-letter frame (as long as you don't take it into the Underground City) or explore the Underground City (as long as you don't take the four-letter frame). Thanks for playing!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell cage", "response": "You produce a large iron cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "A large cage made of iron bars painted black.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na gear\na four-letter frame\na torch (providing light)\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, G, R, S, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cage", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell cats", "response": "No need for plurals; let's not be greedy, now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell star", "response": "Somewhere, far, far away, a new star blinks into existence. In a few hundred years, its light will reach this planet. Do this a few more times and you'll really confuse a lot of astronomers down the line.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell scat", "response": "That's a really crappy idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell cast", "response": "A hard plaster cast covers your leg. It's quite uncomfortable, and your leg is in good condition, so you send it back with a poof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell tear", "response": "You shed a single tear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rate", "response": "You give the cage a 5 out of 10.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell rage", "response": "You feel really angry! But your anger subsides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spell sage", "response": "You produce a handful of Salvia officinalis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sage", "response": "Sage has a long tradition of culinary and medicinal usage. You're not a chef or doctor, so it's little more than a plant to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome sage\na cage (open but empty)\na gear\na four-letter frame\na torch (providing light)\nyour alphabet case (A, C, E, G, R, S, and T)\na three-letter frame", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You've reached the end of the IntroComp release of Spellbound. I hope you have enjoyed your time in Phoenicia. If you are anxious to see more of the game, you can experiment with the four-letter frame (as long as you don't take it into the Underground City) or explore the Underground City (as long as you don't take the four-letter frame). Thanks for playing!", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "cover art", "death", "female protagonist", "first person", "fish", "graphics", "IF Competition 2008", "IFComp Game", "male protagonist", "multiple protagonists", "parser", "smoking", "strong NPCs", "strong profanity", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2008", "XYZZY Best NPCs" ]

[ 11, 42, 32, 5, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Beats the fuck out of cleaning toilets.\n\nShopping cart duty gets me outta the store for a while, which is cool even on a shit day like today. It's that gross, grey slush that gets me talking about just moving down to California this time every year -- hey, they need groceries bagged down there too, don't they?\n\nMom usually agrees with me, but this morning she said that the Mexicans got all those jobs down there. Way to piss on my dreams, Mom. But she's been bitchy ever since the fire in the basement. Whatev. These things happen.\nEverybody Dies\n\nType CREDITS for the full credits, HELP if you need it, and QUIT to exit the game.\n\nAt least outside I can smoke. With all the cars puking exhaust behind me it's not like anyone can complain.\n\nThe Rouge River's kind of awesome from the bridge, its strong and heavy current making it look like a sea snake. Brutal. I like how then when I'm looking at it I can't see Cost Cutters, even though it's directly west. Means I can forget about work for a while.\n\nEast of here is the neighbourhood where most of our customers come from.\nWhat was that?\nWhat was that?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "I'm Graham, your standard variety skid, rocker, or metalhead depending on which suburb you grew up in.\n\nThe river's really raging today. The water level's so high I can barely see the shopping cart. Actually, is it even there? Did the Indian kid get that one too?\n\nOh, wait, there it is. Thank fuck. Lisa'll have me cleaning toilets all month if I come back empty handed.\n\nI finish my smoke and flick the butt over the edge. I imagine it hitting the river below with a gnarly pssssshhhht.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I am carrying:\na pair of jeans (being worn)\na sweatshirt (being worn)\na pack of Gauloise cigarettes\na matchbook\na lumberjack jacket (being worn)\na pair of Kodiaks (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Kodiaks", "response": "Got 'em the summer I was working planting trees. Worst job ever, but the boots are awesome.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jeans", "response": "These guys have been getting looser every year, but I've been gettin' bigger so they're still as tight as they were when I got 'em at nineteen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the matchbook", "response": "Purple, with OOOH LA LA printed on the side. It's out of matches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine River", "response": "It winds through the ravine, kind of a charcoal grey with all the runoff. The cart's wheels are just visible as a far-away glint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cart", "response": "It's waaaaay down there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cart", "response": "I can barely see it, it's that far off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Naw, the new Indian kid cleaned out the 'hood yesterday. Heard he came back with something like eighteen carts. I am gonna have to have a talk with him -- he's making the rest of us look bad.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The visible exits are east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The bridge rail stops here and the brush takes over. It's pretty thick, but I know there's a path north that goes down to the river. I could find my way there shitfaced... who am I kidding, I always found my way there 'faced.\n\nFurther west is Cost Cutters.\n\nAcross the road the guy from the city is in his little go-cart clearing the snow off the sidewalk. He gives me a chin nod and I do the same. Don't know him but it's the Mustache Brotherhood.\n\nThey motor on those things. Next time I look up he's gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brush", "response": "A brambly overgrown mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Shit's so overgrown that for a second I'm like, maybe I have to be wasted to find the Pit, maybe it's got some kind of magical... But then I find it.\n\nEverything's got a wet blanket of snow on it but I can make out the log we usually sat on, the little hole where we'd burn shit, and feel the crinkle of an empty under my Kodiak.\n\nIt's been a couple years since I came out here -- fuck, must have been two years ago, 'cause Ricky left for school that fall. We were celebrating my first Cutters pay cheque with our friend Jack Daniels and we ran into the cart in the dark and we decided to push it over the bridge into the river.\n\nI was like, it'll be awesome, it'll be my get-out-of-jail free card. Like if it's a great day I can always say I saw one of our carts in the river. My ace in the hole.\n\nRicky was like, your ass has a hole? Why you telling me that? Faaaaag.\n\nThe river's louder than the cars down here, just to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take empty", "response": "I came out here to AVOID cleaning, dude.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine empty", "response": "It's an Export. Dunno if I can go back to Ex after drinking Fin du Monde... but I probably can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take log", "response": "Naw. It's basically log-shaped mud now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Yeah. Wow. That is one serious fucking river. I'm getting wet just standing near it. The wheels of the cart are just visible a good piece to the east. The water would be nearly up to my waist if I was dumb enough to enter it.\n\nThe bottom of the bridge is high above, festooned with graffiti.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine graffiti", "response": "The graffiti is nothing special, though the taggers must have had to hang over the edge to do their thing.\n\nThey're lucky they weren't doing it the night we threw the cart over the rail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cart", "response": "It's well out of reach, in the river to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "I'm no expert, but... don't you need to be in a bunch of water for that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the water", "response": "Seriously? I'm no pussy, but... seems dangerous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "Alright, voice-in-my-head. If anything happens, it's your fault.\n\nI wade into the river.\n\nHoly fuck is it cold. Goes from bad to worse. Boots: soaked. Jeans: soaked.\n\nThe shopping cart is submerged in the river here, a lot rustier and grottier than when I saw it last.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the jeans", "response": "Hey, I put together this ensemble for a reason, dude.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cart", "response": "It's stuck there pretty good, but I manage to flip it over. A bunch of other crap that was trapped comes up too, and floats to the surface: six pack rings, something that looks like a clump of hair, and a fish.\n\nPretty gross.\n\nI can't feel my nads any more, but I've got the stupid cart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "I start to pull the cart out of the river, but it pushes all the crap my way too. The fish kind of flips over and it's much worse on the other side -- it's got a huge hole eaten in it, and I can see into its stomach. And I'm pretty sure what's in the fish is another fish that it's eaten.\n\nI can't take my eyes away. I tell myself that it would make an amazingly brutal tat or even an album cover but I also feel like I'm gonna hurl. And then I see the little fish, the one inside, open its eye.\n\nI sort of stumble back away from the cart but at this point my legs are so numb that the cart is the only thing that's holding me up.\n\nSo I fall.\n\nIt's a slow, fat-assed falling, and I'm kind of pissed at myself and finding it kind of hilarious at the same time, thinking about how I'll tell Mom about it when my head hits the rock.\n\n*** YOU HAVE DIED ***\n\nAnd yet, somehow, the game continues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "There is no action here. Only waiting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe void is definitely taking on a porcelain texture.\n\nI am looking down on a toilet.\n\nI don't feel like myself. In fact, I'm sure my forearms weren't as... dark as that, last time I looked. Or as skinny.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "There's a toilet here. The exit's to the southeast.\n\nI catch a glimpse of something moving in the toilet water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "For a second, I see what looks like a tiny fish tail and then it disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "Uh, my name's Ranni. Sikh family. Almost old enough to drive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\nblack work slacks (being worn)\nan apron (being worn)\na kirpan (being worn)\na Cost Cutters golf shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at kirpan", "response": "It's my ceremonial dagger. I'm a Sikh, OK? It's my religion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the apron", "response": "It was clean at the beginning of the shift. Not so much now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "Fortunately for the shoppers, and unfortunately for us who have to clean up after them, Cost Cutters has a public washroom.\n\nI've managed to avoid cleaning duty up 'til now by going on cart duty -- which had the added bonus of getting me away from that psycho Patrick -- but today the slobby old guy (Graham, I think his name is) pulled one over on our manager Lisa and now here I am.\n\nThere is a pair of sinks, a long mirror above them and three battered stalls to the northwest, north and northeast. The exit's south of here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shirt", "response": "One of those ones with the logo embroidered on it. Lisa has her name embroidered on it too, but I don't know if she got that when she became manager or if she did it herself because she's really into her job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "I check myself out in the chipped and scratched mirror. Even with the cheesy work shirt, my new haircut looks sharp: I got some lines buzzed on my sides. I thought the b-boys at my school might hassle me for biting their style but nothing yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This toilet is dingy. The exit's to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "It looks cleaner -- oh god, there's a floater. I avert my eyes and flush.\n\nPeople are animals.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean toilet", "response": "I adjust my kirpan so that it doesn't poke me.\n\nThinking about the car I'm gonna get the day I turn 16, I start scrubbing. My dad would hate to know I was doing this -- he just wouldn't say \"untouchable\" because we're all supposed to be equal, but he'd be thinking it. Then he'd probably start in on the turban thing again... he doesn't know how hard it is to get a job, any job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "Thank god, it went down in one flush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "A clean and empty bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "This toilet has a crack in it. The exit's to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "Oh wait, that's not a crack. It's a... streak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean toilet", "response": "Picturing myself cleaning my car-to-be on a summer day -- specifically the one I saw for super cheap on Craigslist today -- I manage to wipe the streaks off.\n\nDone. Finally, I can get out of here.\n\nI get up, but before I can leave I hear someone come in.\n\n\"So Lisa sent me to help you, brown noser...\"\n\nThat racist shithead Patrick must be right outside the stall from the sound of it.\n\n\"I tol' her that you dirty pakis like scrubbing up shit, but she didn't care. Mmm-mmm. I think she's got a bit of sand nigger fever.\"\n\nI hear the adjoining stall door shut. \"Better check out this toilet,\" I can hear Patrick heading into one of the stalls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "I hear nothing unexpected.\n\n\"Ohhhh man,\" Patrick crows from the stall, followed by a juicy braaaaap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The only visible exit is southwest (to cost cutters bathroom).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "Patrick kicks the stall door open, buckling up. The bastard doesn't even flush.\n\n\"Left ya a present, brown noser,\" he says. He imitates the intercom: \"Clean up in stall 3.\"\n\nI'm not inclined to get mad. I've lost my temper twice, maybe three times in my life. But then the smell hits me like a slap. I look at his horrible, scarred face and his idiotic grin as he waits for me to react, and I'm amazed that I'm keeping it together.\n\nSomething causes his eyes to flick down to my waist, and then his smile vanishes. I look down and realize that after I finished cleaning I hadn't returned my kirpan to its usual position, so it's making my apron poke out a bit.\n\n\"What's that,\" he says, not really asking. I've got to show him or hide it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide kirpan", "response": "As I turn around to adjust it, I hear Patrick gagging in disgust.\n\n\"Is that a boner?\"\n\nI turn around to explain, but he's already at the doorway on his way out.\n\n\"The sound of me shitting gave you a boner? You're--\" And then he's gone.\n\nIt's weird. It wasn't true, but just the fact that he thought that makes me ashamed in the pit of my stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean toilet", "response": "It's already clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "Thank god, it went down in one flush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "The crack/streak is gone, and it's clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "There's a toilet here. The exit's to the southeast. What a shitsplosion. God, Patrick is a diseased animal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You clean it", "response": "Patrick has been downright artistic. He's managed to get shit on every part of the toilet except for the water.\n\nHe's sharpied a swastika on the stall wall but he's gotten it backwards. Which, ironically, makes it a Hindu symbol.\n\nI imagine running him over in my new car again and again until the job is finished.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "A clean and empty bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "I step out of the stall to see Patrick standing there silently.\n\nHe has a look on his face like I've never seen before. He's not going to... apologize, is he?\n\nBehind him Lisa, the manager shows up. She looks reluctant to step into the washroom -- probably because it's the Men's.\n\n\"Ranni, is it true you made a lewd gesture towards Patrick?\"\n\nOh, crap.\n\n\"I'll have to refer to the chapter on sexual harassment in the training manual--\" She looks downright hurt by the situation.\n\nI notice Patrick move suddenly. There is a gun in his hand.\n\n\"Fucking sick fuck,\" he says, right before he shoots me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Patrick", "response": "I try, but a coughed-up blood bubble is the best I can do.\n\nI can't move.\n\nI think I'm on the floor. I must have fallen. I can feel water pooling against my face from somewhere. Or is that water?\n\nPatrick leans over me, his face a wasteland of acne. \"What, getting shot doesn't give you a hard-on too?\"\n\nLisa is screaming, screaming. Patrick's head whips her way. I hear a pop and the screaming stops.\n\nI close my eyes.\n\n*** YOU HAVE DIED ***\n\nAnd yet...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "There is no action here. Only waiting.\n\nI open my eyes.\n\nI'm looking down on a river. I immediately think: Styx. I mean, I knew I was gonna miss out on the virgins not being Islam but how'd I end up in white-person hell? And where would I get money for the boatman? I remembered something about coins from my English class...\n\nThey put 'em on your eyes, I hear a familiar voice say. But that's not the River Styx, as brutally awesome as that would be.\n\nBut a few seconds later I hear the cars behind me, and I realize the voice is right. It's just the...\n\nI walk over this bridge every day to get to Cost Cutters, to the west, but I just recently noticed that it crossed a river. To the east is my neighbourhood.\n\nThere's a neat little train of shopping carts on the sidewalk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Uh, my name's Ranni. Sikh family. Almost old enough to drive.\n\nThere's something weird here.\n\nThen it occurs to me: no snow.\n\nIt snowed last night.\n\nNo, it snowed tomorrow night, another voice in my head says. A woman's voice, this time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the carts", "response": "The shopping carts are pushed into the backs of each other to form a train 3 carts long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine River", "response": "It's funny I've passed over this a million times going to school and work without stopping to look at it, but I guess I usually have my music on.\n\nGraham makes an impatient noise but Lisa shushes him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Graham", "response": "He's got a mustache, and always seems to be going out for a smoke instead of working.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Lisa", "response": "She's pretty, but she's way older than me. Seventeen at least.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lisa about the carts", "response": "We're prohibited from giving you advice, Lisa says as if she's reading from a Cost Cutters manual.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I wander around the neighbourhood laneways and find a cart wedged between two houses.\n\nI return to the bridge with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "I run into a friend's mom and ask her if she's seen any carts, and she sheepishly gives up one from her garage. \"Otherwise I always get one with a stuck wheel,\" she explains.\n\nI trundle it over to the other carts on the bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Some kids are using one on its side as a street hockey net. They claim it's theirs until I point to the Cost Cutters logo.\n\nI add it to the cart train on the bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "I've cleared out the neighbourhood. Maybe that's all there is?\n\nOne more, Lisa's voice echoes in my head. Just not in the neighbourhood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Once I saw a pretty bad accident here. It put me off cycling forever.\n\nFurther west is the Cost Cutters building, the bridge is back east. The way north is barred by pretty dense brush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Call me weird, but I'm not anxious to go back to the place I died. Might as well get the job done first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I walk over this bridge every day to get to Cost Cutters, to the west, but I just recently noticed that it crossed a river. To the east is my neighbourhood.\n\nThere's a neat little train of shopping carts on the sidewalk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine River", "response": "It's funny I've passed over this a million times going to school and work without stopping to look at it, but I guess I usually have my music on.\n\nGraham makes an impatient noise but Lisa shushes him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "GRAHAM, ,LOOK AT RIVER", "response": "I feel my eyes focus on a section of river -- is that a glint of steel?\n\nThere's a cart down there! How the heck did it...?\n\nDoesn't matter how, interrupts Graham. That's our ace in the hole. We just have to play it earlier in the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "LISA, ,EXAMINE RIVER", "response": "Lisa peers through my eyes...\n\nIt's just a grey blur to me. I can't really see that far -- my eyes aren't the best.\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cart", "response": "Which do I mean, the faroff shopping cart or the shopping cart train?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "I gotta get down to the river if I'm going to get that cart, so I push through the brush. Pretty quickly I find a trail that leads to...\n\nThe trail continues east to the river, and I can return back to civilization to the south.\n\nThere's a bunch of empty beer cans and a pit for a fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cans", "response": "Maybe some hoboes might have lived here.\n\nNerd! Graham hisses for some reason. I ignore him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take log", "response": "Naw. It's basically log-shaped mud now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "GRAHAM, ,EXAMINE PIT", "response": "Graham peers through my eyes...\n\nAh, the firepit that gave the Pit its name. Some McDonald's bags, newspapers, a lighter and a can of hairspray and, foomp! You had yerself some instant ambiance.\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "LISA, ,EXAMINE PIT", "response": "Lisa peers through my eyes...\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "LISA, ,LOOK AT EMPTY", "response": "Lisa peers through my eyes...\n\nA bunch of trash. People have no respect for nature.\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take empty", "response": "It smells rank, even from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "GRAHAM, ,LOOK AT EMPTY", "response": "Graham peers through my eyes...\n\nIt's an Export. Dunno if I can go back to Ex after drinking Fin du Monde... but I probably can.\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "GRAHAM, ,EXAMINE LOG", "response": "Graham peers through my eyes...\n\nIt beat sitting on the ground, but not by much.\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "It's more impressive up close, just to the east, but it ain't no Ganges.\n\nGraham chimes in: Dude, it's reeeeally cold --\n\nColder than being dead forever, Graham? Lisa snaps.\n\nJust brace yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "GRAHAM, ,EXAMINE RIVER", "response": "Graham peers through my eyes...\n\nIt winds through the ravine, kind of a charcoal grey with all the runoff.\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "LISA, ,EXAMINE RIVER", "response": "Lisa peers through my eyes...\n\nIt's just a grey blur to me. I can't really see that far -- my eyes aren't the best.\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bridge", "response": "The graffiti on the bridge is just tags, pretty boring compared to some of the burners I've seen in Scarborough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Graham was not lying. It's painfully cold.\n\nLand awaits to the west.\n\nYou can see a rusty shopping cart here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cart", "response": "I yank it up from the river bed and manage to flip it over. A dead fish and some other debris floats up.\n\nOK, I almost forgot, the fish --\n\nThe fish flips over, and it's rotted through. There's a smaller fish inside, partially digested.\n\nGraham makes a retching sound. Did he just vomit inside my head?\n\nHe wouldn't last long in my mom's kitchen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fish", "response": "Just a dead fish, the only weird part being that I can see the other fish inside it. Newsflash: fish eat fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I drag the cart to the side of the river, taking care to leave the debris behind.\n\nIt's more impressive up close, just to the east, but it ain't no Ganges. The path winds west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "I trundle the cart up to...\n\nThe trail continues east to the river, and I can return back to civilization to the south.\n\nThere's a bunch of empty beer cans and a pit for a fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "It takes about ten minutes to wrestle the cart to the road.\n\nOnce I saw a pretty bad accident here. It put me off cycling forever.\n\nFurther west is the Cost Cutters building, the bridge is back east. The way north is barred by pretty dense brush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Ca-chunk! With some effort, I add the rusty cart for a total of 7.\n\nWhoohoo! Lisa says. That's the lot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "There is no action here. Only waiting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "The void starts to glow with a familiar unrelenting light -- a fluorescent light -- and I realize I'm in...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "I'm at work. There are people shopping around me.\n\nAlive! I'm alive! In my own body It was all a --\n\nDream? interrupts Ranni from somewhere in the back part of my head. No.\n\nOh, crumbs.\n\nMy office is to the south, and the exit is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Lisa. I'm the manager. I'm pretty normal-looking, but a boy at leadership camp said I was cute without my glasses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na pair of glasses (being worn)\ndark green work slacks (being worn)\na Cost Cutters blouse (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the people", "response": "The usual mix: every type of human being except the cute teenaged boy type. Which is good. I need to focus on my job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I start out but immediately am accosted by a customer.\n\n\"Excuse me miss,\" the old man asks. \"Is this coupon good here?\"\n\nHe presses a coupon into my hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the coupon", "response": "The coupon died on Tuesday. \"Sorry sir, but this coupon expired yesterday.\"\n\nHe grabs it back. \"What?\" He stares at it through his thick glasses. \"But it's Monday, isn't it?\"\n\nI give him a little smile that lets him know: he's old.\n\nHe wanders off, confused.\n\nGraham chuckles. Way to mess with the old coot's head, Lise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I get a few aisles closer this time before a mom and daughter stop me.\n\n\"Do both of these have peanuts? My daughter has an allergy.\"\n\nShe hands me a package of Savoury Snax and a package of Peanut Puffs.\n\nSeriously! This is so not my job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say yes", "response": "(to the mother)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at snax", "response": "A hideously coloured package with, unfortunately, one word in English, two if you count \"Snax\". I can't read the ingredients. It looks like birdfood... gross.\n\nIt's pretty tasty, actually, says Ranni.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Peanut", "response": "Ingredients: Whole peanuts, peanut paste, vaporized peanuts, peanut dust... I skip to the end where it says. Warning, may contain --\n\nTraces of peanuts? Ranni suggests.\n\nNo. Traces of heavy metals.\n\nBruuuuuuuutal! moans Graham.\n\nI put the Peanut Puffs back on the shelf, far out of the little girl's reach. It quickly disappears into the blur of colourful products.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Snax to mom", "response": "I can't. I can't help imagining the little girl choking to death. She looks a bit bratty, but still.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "GRAHAM, ,EXAMINE SNAX", "response": "Graham peers through my eyes...\n\nSeriously, what is wrong with this store? You can barely find ketchup and dill pickle potato chips and now they're stocking these, these...\n\nPaki foods? says Ranni.\n\nI was gonna say \"weird foods.\"\n\n...my eyes are my own again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "RANNI, ,EXAMINE SNAX", "response": "That is so cool! The ingredients go from squiggly letters to real letters.\n\nI read them through. Lots of weird stuff and tongue twisters, but no peanuts. I hand it to the mom and she leaves without even thanking me.\n\nPeople are so rude. That's why I got into being a manager. I hate being on the frontlines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Finally I make it unaccosted to...\n\nWell, OK, it's not just my office. But I've got my nook, a desk in the corner of the staffroom.\n\nThe staffroom has lockers along one wall, a soda machine, and a bench.\n\nOn the desk is a calendar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine calendar", "response": "IMPENDING is the word for Monday. Monday? But...\n\nIt's two days before the shooting, Ranni says impatiently. You gotta get rid of that psycho, Lisa.\n\nAlso on the calendar for today is a 4pm locker inspection from central office.\n\nAnd it is, of course, 4pm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lockers", "response": "They're the kind that have the combo locks built into the doors, so central office can access them at any time.\n\nMost of them have clearly printed labels stuck on to indicate their owners: JILL, PATRICK, PAUL, RANNY (this was before I knew it was spelt RANNI, so sue me). GRAHAM, JASON, and my own were all written in the sloppy handwriting of my predecessor.\n\nAll of a sudden Tim from main office rushes in.\n\n\"I'm soooo late,\" he says. He unlocks the soda machine and takes a can out, then slams it shut.\n\nJerkwad. Just 'cause he used to work here he acts like he owns the place. \"Um, why do you still have a key for--\" I start.\n\n\"Gotta check the meat room temp,\" he says, pulling out a thermometer from his windbreaker. \"Back in a jiff. Then I'll do the locker check.\"\n\nAwww, crapsicles! blurts Graham.\n\n\"Won't have time for them all, just the new hires -- Patrick, Ranni and Paul,\" Tim says on his way out the door.\n\nThank you, Satan! Graham crows.\n\nWhat are you so happy about? says Ranni. He said he'd be back in a jiff, and we've got to make sure Patrick gets canned today before he gets back!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "It's a big clunky beast left by my predecessor. Other than a nasty paint stain, the only thing on it is the word-a-day calendar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stain", "response": "From Tim's time. He has no respect for Cost Cutters property.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the patrick's locker", "response": "I don't know the combo, and they're not in today so I can't ask them. Of course, main office has all the combinations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the ranni's locker", "response": "My hands move of their own (well, I guess, of Ranni's) accord and flick through the combination.\n\nRanni's locker has his work slacks, a balled up apron and the WHMIS safety regulations taped to his door.\n\nGraham snorts at this. Mr. Worky-work.\n\nIt's my work locker! Ranni retorts. What, I'm supposed to have a, a, six pack of beers in there or something?\n\nGraham is silent. (Shocker!)\n\nI shut the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the graham's locker", "response": "Nope, Graham says.\n\nJust open it! Ranni says, as exasperated as I feel.\n\nSorry, kids, ain't gonna happen.\n\nI shake the locked door, noticing as I do that there's some kind of smell coming from the door vents.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell it", "response": "That's weird. It smells like my brother's room in the basement. He always keeps it locked, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell the graham's locker", "response": "I can't be that hands-on, Graham says. But two pairs of eyes are better than one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the lisa's locker", "response": "I unlock it. Inside are my school bag and my normal clothes including --\n\nMmm, black lacy bra, Graham says, I never would have figured you--\n\nI slam the locker shut and ignore Graham's creepy laugh.\n\nTim bustles in and counts the lockers and looks up the combos. \"Paul...\" he starts twirling the combos. \"It's not Paul Sorenson, is it? Come back for another hitch?\"\n\n\"No, it's Chin. Paul Chin.\"\n\n\"It wouldn't be, it wouldn't be. Be in his twenties now. But that guy was hilarious -- he would just crack -- us -- up!\"\n\nHe yanks the door open. It's empty except for an apron with a nametag and a book called World War Z. He flips through it, staring at it intently, before throwing it back and shutting the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the patrick's locker", "response": "Believe me, if I start talking to him he'll start talking about the good ol' days when \"managment was of a different quality.\" He actually said that. Best to just wait the old windbag out.\n\n\"OK, Ranni, let's see what you got hiding... yeah, the neighbourhood, the neighbourhood's really changed,\" Tim laments, opening Ranni's locker.\n\nYeah. Everything was sooo much better when he worked here, for one.\n\nI don't think that's what he means, says Ranni.\n\nTim checks the pockets of Ranni's work clothes and looks approvingly at the WHMIS regs taped to the door.\n\nHe finishes his inspection and shuts the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Tim", "response": "He's a gawky guy with a bright orange Cost Cutters windbreaker.\n\nTim opens Patrick's locker. I look over his shoulder to see if I can spot the gun, but the only thing in it is a magazine.\n\nTim picks it up -- it's an issue of Glocks and Grenades -- and flips through it. For a second he seems to be disturbed, and I have a flicker of hope that he's gonna fire Patrick.\n\n\"Don't know... if I have this issue...\" he says, looking at the front. \"Maybe my subscription's run out.\"\n\nHe tosses it back in and shuts the locker.\n\nI guess he doesn't bring the gun in til tomorrow, says Ranni.\n\nWell, there goes the only chance to change what happened, says Graham.\n\n*** WE DIED FOR GOOD ***\n\nThis time there's no visit to the Void. Tim disappears, I feel a nauseating flip in my stomach and I find myself moved a few feet away but still in...\n\nWell, OK, it's not just my office. But I've got my nook, a desk in the corner of the staffroom.\n\nThe staffroom has lockers along one wall, a soda machine, and a bench.\n\nOn the desk is a calendar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Lisa. I'm the manager. I'm pretty normal-looking, but a boy at leadership camp said I was cute without my glasses.\n\nAll of a sudden Tim from main office rushes in.\n\n\"I'm soooo late,\" he says. He unlocks the soda machine and takes a can out, then slams it shut. Soooo predictable.\n\n\"Gotta check the meat room temp,\" he says, pulling out a thermometer from his windbreaker. \"Back in a jiff. Then I'll do the locker check. Just the new hires -- Patrick, Ranni and Paul,\" he says on his way out the door.\n\nOK, don't fuck it up this time, Lisa. We don't know if we've got unlimited lives, or what, says Graham.\n\nAnd we've got like, nine-tenths of a jiff left, says Ranni.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the graham's locker", "response": "Ranni has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the graham's locker", "response": "Nope, Graham says.\n\nJust open it! Ranni says, as exasperated as I feel.\n\nSorry, kids, ain't gonna happen.\n\nI shake the locked door, noticing as I do that there's some kind of smell coming from the door vents.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Graham about the pot", "response": "Sorry man, I can't just tell you what to do, Graham says. There're these stupid rules.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the ranni's locker", "response": "My hands move of their own (well, I guess, of Ranni's) accord and flick through the combination.\n\nRanni's locker has his work slacks, a balled up apron and the WHMIS safety regulations taped to his door.\n\nGraham snorts at this. Mr. Worky-work.\n\nIt's my work locker! Ranni retorts. What, I'm supposed to have a, a, six pack of beers in there or something?\n\nGraham is silent. (Shocker!)\n\nI shut the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the ranni's locker", "response": "I don't know his combo.\n\nI don't really know the numbers, either, says Ranni. My hands just do it automatically now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lockers", "response": "They're the kind that have the combo locks built into the doors, so central office can access them at any time.\n\nMost of them have clearly printed labels stuck on to indicate their owners: JILL, PATRICK, PAUL, RANNY (this was before I knew it was spelt RANNI, so sue me). GRAHAM, JASON, and my own were all written in the sloppy handwriting of my predecessor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the graham's label", "response": "The label's been there for a few years, so some of the glue's dried up. I manage to get it off without ripping it.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the patrick's label", "response": "It was applied so recently it peels off smoothly.\n\nTaken.\n\nTim bustles in and counts the lockers and looks up the combos. \"Paul...\" he starts twirling the combos. \"It's not Paul Sorenson, is it? Come back for another hitch?\"\n\n\"No, it's Chin. Paul Chin.\"\n\n\"It wouldn't be, it wouldn't be. Be in his twenties now. But that guy was hilarious -- he would just crack -- us -- up!\"\n\nHe yanks the door open. It's empty except for an apron with a nametag and a book called World War Z. He flips through it, staring at it intently, before throwing it back and shutting the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the patrick's label on the graham's locker", "response": "But Tim would totally see me!\n\n\"OK, Ranni, let's see what you got hiding... yeah, the neighbourhood, the neighbourhood's really changed,\" Tim laments, opening Ranni's locker.\n\nYeah. Everything was sooo much better when he worked here, for one.\n\nI don't think that's what he means, says Ranni.\n\nTim checks the pockets of Ranni's work clothes and looks approvingly at the WHMIS regs taped to the door.\n\nHe finishes his inspection and shuts the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the patrick's label on the graham's locker", "response": "But Tim would totally see me!\n\n\"Can't see a locker for this Patrick McGuire here,\" Tim says. \"Oh well, I'm sure it's fine.\"\n\nI am shocked speechless by his lack of professionalism as he sails out the door.\n\nI guess he doesn't bring the gun in til tomorrow, says Ranni.\n\nWell, there goes the only chance to change what happened, says Graham.\n\n*** WE DIED FOR GOOD ***\n\nThis time there's no visit to the Void. Tim disappears, I feel a nauseating flip in my stomach and I find myself moved a few feet away but still in...\n\nWell, OK, it's not just my office. But I've got my nook, a desk in the corner of the staffroom.\n\nThe staffroom has lockers along one wall, a soda machine, and a bench.\n\nOn the desk is a calendar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the patrick's label", "response": "Taken.\n\nAll of a sudden Tim from main office rushes in.\n\n\"I'm soooo late,\" he says. He unlocks the soda machine and takes a can out, then slams it shut. Soooo predictable.\n\n\"Gotta check the meat room temp,\" he says, pulling out a thermometer from his windbreaker. \"Back in a jiff. Then I'll do the locker check. Just the new hires -- Patrick, Ranni and Paul,\" he says on his way out the door.\n\nOK, don't fuck it up this time, Lisa. We don't know if we've got unlimited lives, or what, says Graham.\n\nAnd we've got like, nine-tenths of a jiff left, says Ranni.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the graham's label", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the patrick's label on the graham's locker", "response": "I put Patrick's label on Graham's locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the graham's label on patrick's locker", "response": "I put Graham's label on Patrick's locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nTim bustles in and counts the lockers and looks up the combos. \"Paul...\" he starts twirling the combos. \"It's not Paul Sorenson, is it? Come back for another hitch?\"\n\n\"No, it's Chin. Paul Chin.\"\n\n\"It wouldn't be, it wouldn't be. Be in his twenties now. But that guy was hilarious -- he would just crack -- us -- up!\"\n\nHe yanks the door open. It's empty except for an apron with a nametag and a book called World War Z. He flips through it, staring at it intently, before throwing it back and shutting the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"OK, Ranni, let's see what you got hiding... yeah, the neighbourhood, the neighbourhood's really changed,\" Tim laments, opening Ranni's locker.\n\nYeah. Everything was sooo much better when you worked here, Tim.\n\nI don't think that's what he means, says Ranni.\n\nTim checks the pockets of Ranni's work clothes and looks approvingly at the WHMIS regs taped to the door.\n\nHe finishes his inspection and shuts the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nTim opens \"Patrick's\" locker and immediately grabs a big garbage bag. \"What the heck...?\"\n\nHe opens the bag and the smell fills the room. \"I do believe we have ourselves some Wacky Tobacccy, Lisa.\"\n\nThe grin on his face is positively wolfish. Within seconds he's talking to the police on the phone.\n\nPatrick is sooooo fired.\n\nFired? Graham says. For a bale like that he's going to juvie.\n\nWhat the hell do you need that much weed for, anyway? Ranni says.\n\nThe grow-op in my mom's basement caught fire, one of the lamps, Graham says, I needed to store the stuff I salvaged somewhere.\n\nAn unbelievable ending to an unbelievable day. The cops show up and then Patrick shows up and then Patrick's scary uncle shows up -- a big nightmare, needless to say.\n\nBut you know what I thought when I was locking up for the night? Could have been worse. Nobody died.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss tim", "response": "I should keep my mind on the game.\n\nTim opens \"Patrick's\" locker and immediately grabs a big garbage bag. \"What the heck...?\"\n\nHe opens the bag and the smell fills the room. \"I do believe we have ourselves some Wacky Tobacccy, Lisa.\"\n\nThe grin on his face is positively wolfish. Within seconds he's talking to the police on the phone.\n\nPatrick is sooooo fired.\n\nFired? Graham says. For a bale like that he's going to juvie.\n\nWhat the hell do you need that much weed for, anyway? Ranni says.\n\nThe grow-op in my mom's basement caught fire, one of the lamps, Graham says, I needed to store the stuff I salvaged somewhere.\n\nAn unbelievable ending to an unbelievable day. The cops show up and then Patrick shows up and then Patrick's scary uncle shows up -- a big nightmare, needless to say.\n\nBut you know what I thought when I was locking up for the night? Could have been worse. Nobody died.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "I am carrying:\nGraham's label\na pair of glasses (being worn)\ndark green work slacks (being worn)\na Cost Cutters blouse (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get jill's label", "response": "It's like part of the metal now. Can't get it off without ripping it.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Romance" ]

[ "airplane", "conversation", "cover art", "eyepatch", "flight", "romance", "snow", "TADS", "TADS 3", "TIGSource", "war" ]

[ 5, 11, 15, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It only takes a moment of inattention. The snowstorm draws thicker and the faint grey silhouette of the reconnaissance plane fades away completely. You bank hard, yanking on the control column with mild panic, but it's too late. Your paths have diverged, unlikely to cross again as long as this lethal weather continues.\n\nThe lumbering two-seater plane you were supposed to be escorting is alone and unprotected. And she is out there: lightning fast, deadly accurate and cold as ice. You'd consider turning back to the airbase right away.\n\nIf, that is, you even knew where you were.\n\n[Type 'About' if this is your first time playing.\nType 'Credits' to learn who's responsible for this drivel.]\n\nBiplane Cockpit (sitting in the pilot's seat)\nYou're seated in the cockpit of your Swordfish biplane, exposed to the elements. The small windscreen ahead does little to keep the harsh, icy wind from cutting right through you, and you're surrounded on all sides by blinding white mist.\n\nThe plane's control column juts up in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine column", "response": "Your Swordfish's trusty joystick features a tempting red button on the top. Pushing or pulling the column will adjust your pitch.\n\nYou suppress a shiver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the joystick", "response": "The control column moves loosely, clearly having no effect on the plane's ailerons.\n\nThe control column twitches spasmodically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a revolver, and you're wearing a pair of goggles, a parachute pack, a white scarf, a fur-lined jacket, some breeches, and some sheepskin boots.\n\nThe propeller flickers in its motion, struggling to keep turning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot yourself", "response": "You miss.\n\nYou glance over your shoulder in time to see something go flying backwards from beneath the plane. Hopefully nothing too important...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine column", "response": "Your Swordfish's trusty joystick features a tempting red button on the top. Pushing or pulling the column will adjust your pitch.\n\nYou glance over your shoulder in time to see something go flying backwards from beneath the plane. Hopefully nothing too important...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the seat", "response": "You are sitting in the pilot's seat.\n\nYou glance over your shoulder in time to see something go flying backwards from beneath the plane. Hopefully nothing too important...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You check your parachute and climb up onto your seat. After you throw your leg over the side, it's surprisingly easy to push yourself away from the plane and leap into the mist.\n\nNot quite as aerodynamic as your Swordfish, you drop like a stone, plummeting into the murky white void below. Ice and fog crowd close around you, obscuring every direction. The only reason you know you're falling is because of the way your stomach seems to still be a hundred metres above you somewhere. Remembering the single parachute jump you performed in basic training, you fumble with the chord and yank hard, the harness suddenly seeming to pull you upwards.\n\nYou're hanging from a parachute, descending slowly into a blank white void. Without the sound of your plane's engine, everything seems shockingly silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYour plane will have hit the ground by now, shattering into pieces, bursting into flames.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nBut you're okay. You made it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe hard part is over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe mist beneath you parts. Below you are thick, evergreen trees, garnished with snow, clinging to sharp black rocks.\n\nNow you have a frame of reference, you realise just how fast you're falling.\n\nYou open your eyes. You feel remarkably well given the circumstances. The air is fresh and invigorating, the sound of birdsong and rustling leaves is like soothing music. Time to get moving - for all you know, you might be behind enemy lines.\n\nForest Clearing (lying on the ground)\nSnow-coated evergreen trees surround you on all sides, their roots tangling into rugged black rocks. Snow falls from the bright white sky above.\n\nThe canopy of your parachute is suspended in the branches of a tree, like a giant, tattered spider's web.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the chute", "response": "You just cheated death. If you wanted to commit suicide, you missed your chance.\n\nThe mist beneath you parts. Below you are thick, evergreen trees, garnished with snow, clinging to sharp black rocks.\n\nNow you have a frame of reference, you realise just how fast you're falling.\n\nYou open your eyes. You feel remarkably well given the circumstances. The air is fresh and invigorating, the sound of birdsong and rustling leaves is like soothing music. Time to get moving - for all you know, you might be behind enemy lines.\n\nForest Clearing (lying on the ground)\nSnow-coated evergreen trees surround you on all sides, their roots tangling into rugged black rocks. Snow falls from the bright white sky above.\n\nThe canopy of your parachute is suspended in the branches of a tree, like a giant, tattered spider's web.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the chute", "response": "You are already carrying the parachute pack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a revolver, and you're wearing a pair of goggles, a parachute pack, a white scarf, a fur-lined jacket, some breeches, and some sheepskin boots.\n\nAn icy breeze passes through the clearing, the soft rustling of leaves following in its wake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "The trees seem unperturbed by the cold. You envy them.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Forest Clearing (lying on the ground)\nSnow-coated evergreen trees surround you on all sides, their roots tangling into rugged black rocks. Snow falls from the bright white sky above.\n\nThe canopy of your parachute is suspended in the branches of a tree, like a giant, tattered spider's web.\n\nA bird chirrups melodically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You sit up, feeling a lot weaker than you thought you were. As you start to shift your legs, something inside your left calf moves. White lightning bolts of pain jolt across your vision and you collapse back with a scream of pain.\n\nYou've broken your leg. You're lying in the freezing snow, and you're not going anywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "The trees seem unperturbed by the cold. You envy them.\n\nYou hear something rustling among the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the leg", "response": "It doesn't look like that would achieve much.\n\nA feral icekin blunders into the clearing, looking around with its empty black eyes. Probably attracted by your scream of pain. Nice going, Lucas.\n\nYour left leg looks normal enough, but something feels very wrong inside it. The slightest movement is agony.\n\nThe icekin looks around, breathing heavily through its sharp, uneven teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You hear the icekin's rasping breaths.\n\nThe icekin fixes its lifeless black eyes on you, emitting a low growl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the icekin", "response": "A lumbering, bipedal creature, its shaggy white coat stained with blood. It clutches a long, rusted blade.\n\nThe icekin lumbers towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the icekin", "response": "You level your revolver at the icekin and squeeze the trigger. It grunts, and takes a few shuffling steps towards you, as if it hasn't even noticed what's happened.\n\nAfter the third step, blood begins to drip from its mouth, and it collapses face-down into the snow.\n\nA dark figure strides into the clearing, a flare gun in her hand. She slips it into her belt and rests a hand on her hip, surveying you with her one good eye. \"I heard a scream,\" she says wryly, \"But it seems you can handle yourself.\" She looks disapprovingly at your gun.\"You don't need to point that thing at me, Lucas. They pay us to shoot planes and we're both grounded after our little airborne contretemps, aren't we?\"\n\nYou smile in spite of the pain. \"The Scarlet Baroness.\"\n\nShe allows herself a carnivorous grin. \"Yes. The two great aces, face to face at last.\"\n\n(You could tell her it feels like you already know her, or play it cool.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Baroness", "response": "The Scarlet Baroness is a tall, imposing woman with long, fiery red hair and an eyepatch. She's clad in black leather and a thick fur coat. You have her full attention.\n\nAn awkward silence hangs between the two of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell her it feels like i already know her", "response": "\"Yes,\" you say. \"It doesn't feel like an introduction. You and I, we know one another better than many friends. Than many lovers, even.\"\n\n\"Exactly,\" she says with a crooked grin. \"I know I've consumed every snippet of information that might give me an advantage over you, I've learnt your flying style, your weaknesses and quirks. I expect no less from you. And we're certainly dance partners of the most intimate kind. There's no-one else I'd be happier to have shoot me out of the sky.\"\n\nYour eyes meet. Her's is icy green, studying you in a way you find difficult to fathom - catlike, perhaps, or aloof.\n\n\"Imelda,\" she says suddenly. \"Maybe you just know me as the Scarlet Baroness, but my name's Imelda von Strassenbach.\"\n\n\"Come on,\" she adds, \"I think it's going to really get snowing soon.\nWe need to get to shelter.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Forest Clearing (lying on the ground)\nSnow-coated evergreen trees surround you on all sides, their roots tangling into rugged black rocks. Snow falls from the bright white sky above.\n\nThe canopy of your parachute is suspended in the branches of a tree, like a giant, tattered spider's web.\n\nA dead icekin lies in the snow, steam rising from its pooling blood.\n\nImelda watches you intently.\n\nImelda looks down at your leg. \"Are you okay? Can you walk?\"\n\n\"I think it's broken.\"\n\nShe kneels down by your side. \"Let me take a look.\"\n\n\"Be sure to look twice as long,\" you advise her, \"since you just have the one eye.\"\n\nShe purses her lips. \"You're right. I'll do that.\"\n\n\"Ow!\"\n\n\"Yeah, it's broken alright.\"\n\n\"Thanks, doctor.\"\n\n\"I'll have to see about making a splint. And then I guess you'll have to lean on me, if you don't mind.\"\n\n\"Anything to help you feel useful.\"\n\nDowned Triplane (lying on the ground)\nA scarlet triplane lies half-buried in the snow, leaning to one side. You're huddled beneath its slanting wing, mostly sheltered from the freezing wind and falling snow.\n\nImelda is huddled close by your side.\n\n\"It's getting dark,\" Imelda says. \"We'll have to stay here at least for tonight, and then move on tomorrow morning if the weather lets up.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're Lucas Thane: daredevil fighter ace, knight of the air.\n\n\"By the way,\" Imelda says, \"why exactly did you feel the need to fly into me?\"\n\n\"That's funny,\" you reply. \"I thought that you were the one who flew into me.\"\n\nThe triplane rocks slightly in the wind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss imelda", "response": "You're not about to kiss the enemy without at least a hint that she'd like you to.\n\nImelda sighs, her breath hanging in front of her like a delicate cloud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the splint", "response": "You meet Imelda's eye and she looks at you expectantly.\n\nYou chat briefly with Imelda, but find out nothing important.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the leg", "response": "\"Is my leg going to be okay, do you think?\"\n\nImelda affects nervousness. \"Well, I was trying not to let you know, but I think it's going to be fatal. If you have any last minute confessions of love to tell to someone, you should probably do it sooner rather than later.\"\n\nYou shrug. \"No, nothing like that.\"\n\nShe folds her arms. \"Oh. I see.\"\n\nYour breath leaves little clouds in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the love", "response": "You clear your throat. \"So, Imelda, how are things with the men in your life?\"\n\n\"Do you mean my male friends among the Sky Mercenaries? Or are you sneakily trying to ask about us?\"\n\nSnow continues to drift down from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about us", "response": "\"Imelda, about us...\"\n\nShe looks down at her feet. \"What about us?\"\n\n\"Well, what's your take on it? Why do we keep circling around one another? In the air or otherwise.\"\n\nStill without looking at you, she says, \"I can't really remember how we first met, except that I suddenly realised this plane from the 5th Imperial Air Squadron kept seeking me out to duel with me, probably because I'm an obvious target in my scarlet plane. I usually brought down every enemy plane I came across, but you always managed to escape. I only shot you down that once. I started to research you, found out who you were, started to learn your flying style, had a chance to kill you, but didn't take it, and then flew into you in the middle of a snowstorm. And now here we are.\"\n\nThere's a pause, and then she adds, \"But that's not what you asked, really, is it? That's just the story of us - I didn't mention my feelings at all.\" She smiles apologetically.\n\nA chill wind passes under the wing, making you both shiver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the feelings", "response": "\"So what are your feelings for me?\"\n\nImelda remains strangely silent, just looks at you with an ambiguous expression. If you want to press the matter, perhaps you should tell her about your feelings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda about your feelings", "response": "You cough. \"Imelda, I just wanted to say that...\"\n\n(You could tell her you're in love with her, or tell her she's like your best friend.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda about the feelings", "response": "You cough. \"Imelda, I just wanted to say that...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda about the love", "response": "You chat briefly with Imelda, but find out nothing important.\n\nYou rub your hands together to try to keep them warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda you're in the love", "response": "The story doesn't understand that command. Please use ASK ACTOR ABOUT TOPIC (or just A TOPIC).\n\n\"By the way,\" Imelda says, \"you're not really dying.\"\n\n\"I know,\" you reply.\n\n\"Just thought I'd check.\"\n\nA chill wind passes under the wing, making you both shiver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda you're in the love with her", "response": "The story doesn't understand that command. Please use ASK ACTOR ABOUT TOPIC (or just A TOPIC).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the love", "response": "You clear your throat. \"So, Imelda, how are things with the men in your life?\"\n\n\"Do you mean my male friends among the Sky Mercenaries? Or are you sneakily trying to ask about us?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda about your feelings", "response": "You cough. \"Imelda, I just wanted to say that...\"\n\nThe triplane rocks slightly in the wind.\n\n(You could tell her you're in love with her, or tell her she's like your best friend.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda you're in love with her", "response": "The story doesn't understand that command. Please use ASK ACTOR ABOUT TOPIC (or just A TOPIC).\n\nYou rub your hands together to try to keep them warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the icekin", "response": "\"You know, I'd never seen an icekin up close before today.\"\n\nImelda laughs. \"Count yourself lucky. Icekin come in all shapes and sizes, but they all have pointy teeth and empty stomachs. Just be glad this was a feral with a blunt knife. It'd gut you and eat you, and that's it. The Ice Queen's trained icekin soldiers, on the other hand, now you really don't want them to take you prisoner.\"\n\nYour breath leaves little clouds in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda about the feelings", "response": "You cough. \"Imelda, I just wanted to say that...\"\n\n(You could tell her you're in love with her, or tell her she's like your best friend.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell her you're in the love with her", "response": "You decide to just say it. You don't even look at her. \"Imelda, I'm in love with you.\"\n\nShe refrains from looking at you either. \"I'm in love with you too,\" she states, matter-of-factly. \"It makes perfect sense, I think. We're young, we're forced to deal with one another repeatedly in intense, passionate, but graceful and playful circumstances, we understand the stresses, the fears we each experience, we both love flying... and so we grow attracted to one another.\"\n\nThe two of you lean closer as she speaks, your lips brushing together. \"My lips are numb,\" you complain.\n\nShe shushes you. \"Let me warm them up.\"\n\nAfter a while, you lean back, faces flushed, sitting perhaps a little closer than before.\n\nImelda straightens her hair and exhales slowly. \"That was almost as satisfying as shooting you down.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss imelda", "response": "You lean over to Imelda and kiss her on the lips. She kisses you back, forcefully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a revolver, and you're wearing a pair of goggles, a white scarf, a fur-lined jacket, some breeches, some sheepskin boots, and a makeshift splint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the jacket", "response": "The risk of hypothermia is too great.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove breeches", "response": "It's extremely cold. You don't really have much to show off right now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You screw imelda", "response": "You see no way to screw Imelda.\n\nImelda's attention drifts away from you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shoot jacket", "response": "It doesn't look like that would achieve much.\n\nImelda meets your eye briefly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the eyepatch", "response": "You meet Imelda's eye and she looks at you expectantly.\n\nYou meet Imelda's single eye. \"Um...\" you say, \"so how did you...?\"\n\n\"How did I what, Lucas?\" she replies innocently.\n\nYou clear your throat. \"You know... the eye patch...\"\n\n\"What about it, Lucas?\"\n\n\"Well, I was just wondering what happened to your eye.\"\n\n\"I was shot,\" she says simply. \"It's an occupational hazard when you're around planes with machineguns strapped to them.\"\n\n\"Yes, I've noticed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the ice queen", "response": "\"So, as the Ice Queen's pet fighter pilot I bet you've had tea with her and everything?\"\n\nImelda raises her chin. \"She did personally present a medal to me.\nHer hands were really cold... But I'm hardly her pet. The Sky Mercenaries always retain full autonomy. We're merely under contract to her and the Northern Territories.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about Sky Mercenaries", "response": "\"What exactly are you Sky Pirates all about then?\"\n\nImelda looks at you with her good eye and sighs theatrically.\n\n\"Sky Mercenaries,\" you correct yourself, \"whatever.\"\n\n\"We're the children of Aerocity, born in the skies, at home there, understanding wind, gravity and inertia the way most people understand walking.\"\n\n\"You're not afraid of heights then?\"\n\nShe smiles. \"No, Lucas, not really.\" After a moment she adds, \"Look, I know we get a bad rap in the southern newspapers, but we're people just like anyone else. I couldn't wish for better friends than those I have on the zeppelin.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the predicament", "response": "\"This is quite a situation we're in,\" you say.\n\n\"Yep,\" Imelda agrees.\n\n\"Any idea what to do?\"\n\nImelda tips her head to one side. \"Maybe.\"\n\n\"Care to share?\"\n\n\"Well, as I see it, we have two main problems. We need to get to safety tomorrow, and we need to keep warm.\"\n\nSnow continues to drift down from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the zeppelin", "response": "\"So you guys are based on a zeppelin?\" you ask Imelda.\n\n\"Of course,\" she says smugly. \"There's no quicker way to get your planes in the air than to have them in the air already.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the eyepatch", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the safety", "response": "\"I was thinking,\" you tell Imelda.\n\n\"Did it hurt?\" she asks.\n\n\"A little. Mostly it was just an unfamiliar sensation. What I was thinking was that we should head south from here. We'll probably reach the Imperial lines in no time. After that, a hot bath, some steaming soup...\"\n\nImelda seems unconvinced. \"Or we could head north. We'll probably reach the Northern lines in no time, after which etcetera, etcetera.\"\n\n\"Hang on,\" you say, \"Weren't you telling me I didn't ever want to end up a prisoner of the Ice Queen's icekin soldiers?\"\n\n\"You won't be a prisoner of the icekin soldiers. You'll be my prisoner.\"\n\n\"Sounds a bit kinky for my tastes.\"\n\nImelda smiles slyly. \"You have no idea.\"\n\n\"Maybe we should just split up,\" you suggest. \"I bet we could both make it by ourselves. Then no-one has to be anyone's prisoner.\"\n\nImelda shrugs. \"Look, I'm heading north. I'd love it if you'd come with me, but...\"\n\n(You could agree to go north with her, ask her to go south with you, tell her you should split up, or tell her you can't decide.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the eyepatch", "response": "Okay, you're now wearing the eye patch.\n\nYou rub your hands together to try to keep them warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about Ice Queen", "response": "\"So, as the Ice Queen's pet fighter pilot I bet you've had tea with her and everything?\"\n\nImelda raises her chin. \"She did personally present a medal to me.\nHer hands were really cold... But I'm hardly her pet. The Sky Mercenaries always retain full autonomy. We're merely under contract to her and the Northern Territories.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about keeping warm", "response": "\"I've got an idea to keep us warm,\" you tell Imelda.\n\nShe takes a break from breathing into her hands. \"Sounds great to me. What is it?\"\n\n(You could suggest thinking warm thoughts, suggest sharing body heat, or suggest making a fire.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You suggest thinking the warm thoughts", "response": "\"Well,\" you begin uncertainly, \"we could think warm thoughts.\"\n\nImelda offers you a very condescending look. \"So even as our bodies freeze to death, we'll be warm in our minds?\"\n\n\"Exactly. We just need to picture ourselves sitting in front of a roaring fire, or lying on a sunny beach, or... uh, inside the stomach of a feral icekin...\"\n\nImelda pats you on your unbroken leg. \"It's a good thing you have looks,\" is all she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You suggest sharing body heat", "response": "\"I was just thinking how we're both so cold, and yet we're both full of red hot blood...\"\n\nImelda raises an eyebrow. \"Cannibalism?\"\n\nYou grimace. \"Hugging?\"\n\nImelda smiles evilly. \"Oh, I see. Can't bear to keep your hands to yourself for much longer?\"\n\n\"It would take an iron will.\"\n\nShe slips her arms around your waist and presses herself against you. \"Still, it's a small price to pay to avoid freezing to death.\"\n\nYou wrap your arms around her in turn. \"Yes,\" you say austerely, \"we must be brave.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about keeping warm", "response": "\"I've got an idea to keep us warm,\" you tell Imelda.\n\nShe takes a break from breathing into her hands. \"Sounds great to me. What is it?\"\n\nThe triplane rocks slightly in the wind.\n\n(You could suggest thinking warm thoughts, suggest sharing body heat, or suggest making a fire.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda to go south", "response": "Imelda refuses your request.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the safety", "response": "\"About where we're headed...\" you begin.\n\n\"Have you reached a decision yet?\" Imelda asks you.\n\n(You could agree to go north with her, ask her to go south with you, tell her you should split up, or tell her you can't decide.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Agree to go north", "response": "\"Okay,\" you say. \"I'll go north with you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the imedla about the empire", "response": "Imelda squeezes you around the waist. \"I'm glad. And... I know what a sacrifice this must be for you. Thank you.\"\n\nThe word \"imedla\" is not necessary in this story.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about newspapers", "response": "\"Have you read any newspapers recently?\" you ask Imelda.\n\n\"You mean like the Northern Financial Times?\"\n\n\"I mean like the Weekly Mirror or the Mail News.\"\n\n\"I thought as much. A shocking amount of those papers is about us, isn't it? According to one, I'm irresponsible for continuing to fly into combat while blatantly pregnant with your love child.\"\n\n\"I wonder what they'd make of all this...\" You wave your hand around at your cosy little love nest in the freezing snow.\n\n\"If we don't make it,\" Imelda says, \"they'll turn it into our lovers' suicide pact.\"\n\n\"Headline: They couldn't bring themselves to fight any more!\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Downed Triplane (lying on the ground)\nA scarlet triplane lies half-buried in the snow, leaning to one side. You're huddled beneath its slanting wing, mostly sheltered from the freezing wind and falling snow.\n\nImelda is huddled close by your side, watching you intently.\n\nA chill wind passes under the wing, making you both shiver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the safety", "response": "\"About where we're headed...\" you begin.\n\n\"Have you changed your mind?\" Imelda asks you. \"We were both going to head north.\"\n\n(You could ask her to go south with you, tell her you should split up, or tell her you haven't changed your mind.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the Aerocity", "response": "\"I've heard of Aerocity, but I'm not sure I believe in it. It's supposed to be a city suspended from balloons?\"\n\nImelda bursts out with laughter. It's nice to see her be so familiar with you, but you can't help but feel a bit embarrassed. \"That's a good one, I'll have to remember that. No, Lucas, Aerocity is not a city suspended from balloons, but it is high up in a mountain range. We're quite familiar with the concept of falling, and our efforts to avoid it have made us the best in the world at flying.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The slanting triplane wing is in the way.\n\nImelda laughs suddenly. \"A city suspended from balloons. That's brilliant.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plane", "response": "A plane with three wings, one on top of the other. Bit extravagant, really.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about northern Territories", "response": "You look around at the thick snowfall. \"The climate's nice in the Northern Territories this year.\"\n\n\"I guess this is why they call her the Ice Queen.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about herself", "response": "\"So...\" you begin, \"why not tell me a little about yourself, Imelda?\"\n\nImelda looks thoughtful. \"I suppose... it's a bit of a broad topic. Tell you what, why don't we start with you telling me about myself.\"\n\n\"You want me to tell you about yourself?\" you repeat. \"Don't you already know yourself quite well?\"\n\n\"I'm interested to know what you think of me. Come on, tell me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Imelda about herself", "response": "You take a deep breath. \"Okay. You're the notorious ace Sky Mercenary known as the Scarlet Baroness, real name Imelda von Strassa- von Strassenba-\"\n\n\"Von Strassenbach.\"\n\n\"Who's telling this story? Imelda von Strassenbach. A fiery redhead with an ice cold temperament.\"\n\n\"More than my temperament is ice cold at the moment.\"\n\n\"You've racked up over seventy confirmed kills-\"\n\n\"Seventy-six.\"\n\n\"You're an outstanding pilot, who can best even the most elite southern pilots, and you're hopelessly in love, according to the scandal sheets, with one Lucas Thane, the Benevolent Empire's ace of aces.\"\n\nImelda seems happy with your little report. \"Is that so,\" she purrs. \"Although: hopelessly in love, pursuing in a predatory fashion... it's a thin line, I think.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about benevolent Empire", "response": "\"You're surely a fan of the Benevolent Empire and its attempts to civilise the world?\"\n\nImelda scoffs. \"It's hard to consider an empire benevolent when it thinks that rearranging the world to suit its own economic needs is 'civilising' it.\"\n\n\"You don't think the people of the Northern Territories would benefit from giving us all their noxious petroleum?\"\n\n\"I think they've benefited best by giving it to us Sky Mercenaries.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about yourself", "response": "\"Do you know much about me?\" you ask Imelda.\n\n\"All the important stuff,\" she says. \"Your flying style, your weaknesses.\"\n\nYou study her carefully. \"My weaknesses?\"\n\n\"You always underestimate your ability to fly in a crosswind, you're too afraid of stalling, and you've balked at two separate opportunities to shoot me down because the bullets would probably have passed through my body.\"\n\n\"I see.\"\n\nSnow continues to drift down from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about keeping warm", "response": "\"I've got an idea to keep us warm,\" you tell Imelda.\n\nShe takes a break from breathing into her hands. \"Sounds great to me. What is it?\"\n\n(You could suggest thinking warm thoughts, suggest sharing body heat, or suggest making a fire.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You suggest making a the fire", "response": "You look around. \"I think we could build a fire. If we put it right there it should be close enough to warm us up, but the wind will blow the smoke away from us.\"\n\nImelda crawls out from under the wing and stands up, snow crunching beneath her feet. \"Okay, I'll go find some wood, or anything else that looks like it'll burn. Give me your gun. I'd hate to have to face down a feral icekin with nothing but a couple of pine branches.\"\n\n\"Don't you still have that flare gun?\" you ask her.\n\n\"Yeah, but I'd rather save its one shot for summoning help. Come on, hand it over.\"\n\n(You could agree, or politely refuse.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda for the flare gun", "response": "\"We can talk after I get back,\" Imelda says. \"In the meantime, just tell me: are you going to give me your gun?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell her you can do better", "response": "You shift your broken leg so that you can grab a couple of sticks from the pile. \"I think the Boy Scouts need to take over here,\" you tell Imelda.\n\nShe gives you a very doubtful look. \"Excuse me? The Sky Guides are more than capable of rubbing two sticks together. Unless you can think of a way an all-male group might have gained extra practice in that regard?\"\n\n\"Clearly you don't have enough confidence in your abilities to just get on with it.\"\n\n\"I'm just trying to get you to save your energy.\"\n\nYou both tend to the sticks in intense silence from then on. But the fire doesn't suddenly spark to life, it forms slowly from a wisp of smoke, and it's hard to tell which of you is more responsible for it. When it's crackling away nicely, you both sit back, shoulder-to-shoulder.\n\n\"I told you to save your energy,\" Imelda says. \"That was clearly my spark that lit it.\"\n\nYou shake your head. \"My sparks were much more vibrant. You could tell they had the Lucas Thane never-give-up attitude.\"\n\n\"Fine, keep lying to yourself. We both know the truth.\"\n\n\"I agree that one of us is in denial, but I don't think it's me.\"\n\nImelda holds out her hands to the fire. \"It's nice that we got it done, though.\"\n\nYou hold out your own hands. \"I don't dispute that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the newspaper", "response": "\"Have you read any newspapers recently?\" you ask Imelda.\n\n\"You mean like the Northern Financial Times?\"\n\n\"I mean like the Weekly Mirror or the Mail News.\"\n\n\"I thought as much. A shocking amount of those papers is about us, isn't it? According to one, I'm irresponsible for continuing to fly into combat while blatantly pregnant with your love child.\"\n\n\"I wonder what they'd make of all this...\" You wave your hand around at your cosy little love nest in the freezing snow.\n\n\"If we don't make it,\" Imelda says, \"they'll turn it into our lovers' suicide pact.\"\n\n\"Headline: They couldn't bring themselves to fight any more!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about northern Territories", "response": "You look around at the thick snowfall. \"The climate's nice in the Northern Territories this year.\"\n\n\"I guess this is why they call her the Ice Queen.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the hair", "response": "\"Your hair is the most striking colour,\" you tell Imelda.\n\nShe runs her fingers through her curls. \"Thank you.\"\n\n\"Is it natural?\"\n\nShe suddenly glares at you. \"You might maintain the most fleeting hope of one day finding out for sure.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her about the the chance to kill yourself", "response": "\"That one time you came out of the sun...\" you begin. \"It was perfect. You had me.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Imelda says. \"I had you. Not just your plane, but you. I couldn't take the shot. You've done the same yourself.\"\n\nYou lightly touch her arm. \"Well, we're the only ones who know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the kill count", "response": "\"What was that number again?\"\n\n\"I've downed seventy six aircraft,\" she says.\n\nYou sniff. \"A lot of balloons and two-seaters, though...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hug her", "response": "You wrap your arms around Imelda and squeeze her tightly.\n\n\"Why Lucas,\" she says wryly, hugging you back, \"you must contain your obvious desire for me.\"\n\n\"I'm just trying to keep warm,\" you reply.\n\n\"Yes, keep telling yourself that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the ace of Aces", "response": "You look around the snowy environs. \"It's interesting when you think about it... here we both are, two aces of aces...\"\n\n\"Aces of aces? There's the ace of aces, which is myself. And then there are a few regional titles like southern ace of aces, like this fellow who's all looks and no brains. You'd like him. But it's not really a concept that makes sense when you pluralise it.\"\n\n\"Sure it does,\" you insist. \"There's room for more than one at the top.\"\n\n\"Not much room. It'd be pretty cramped.\"\n\n\"You have some sort of objection to being physically close to me?\"\n\nShe reaches over to toussle your hair. \"Only in the abstract.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You let your head rest on Imelda's shoulder, and sleep descends like a dark blanket.\n\nThe night is cold, and the two of you cling to one another for warmth, but the snow has finally stopped falling and the fire burns until morning.\n\nThen the two of you struggle to your feet, Imelda just contending with aches and cramps while you have to worry about your broken leg.\nLooking around at the pristine forest, everything covered in thick sheets of snow, you begin to make your way north, Imelda encouraging you to lean on her as much as you can. Eventually, the bright scarlet wingtip of her triplane has disappeared from view.\n\nNot long after that...\n\nYou sit by the window, looking down on the clouds, feeling the throbbing of the zeppelin's engine. The door opens and Imelda enters.\n\n\"Is this a conjugal visit?\" you ask her.\n\nShe looks puzzled. \"Have I ever made any other kind of visit?\"\n\nShe walks across your improbably luxurious cabin - not that you're allowed to leave it - and sits on the window sill next to you.\n\n\"Are you okay?\" she asks. \"I thought they'd be a little more lenient with you, but it seems you're going to be in here til the war ends.\"\n\nYou shrug. \"The view's nice. The company's great. I've caught up on my reading.\"\n\n\"Wouldn't you be more comfortable lying on the bed?\" she asks.\n\nYou look at her with mock naivety. \"Why do you ask?\"\n\nYears later...\n\nImelda rolls off of you and sparks up a cigarette, the sheets around her hips. You study her silhouette in the twilight.\n\n\"The air race tomorrow,\" she says.\n\n\"Everyone will be there,\" you say proudly. \"Everyone wants to see the world's most famous aces competing against one another.\"\n\nShe takes a deep drag and lets the smoke curl slowly from her lips before speaking. \"I just want to make sure you know I won't hold back, just because it's you.\"\n\nYou laugh. \"You're not going to get a chance to. You'll have to be flat out just to be able to spot me on the horizon.\"\n\nShe holds out her hand and you take it. \"May the best woman win,\" she says.\n\n\"May she come second, after me,\" you counter.\n\nThere's a moment's pause. The quiet sounds of evening drift in through an open window.\n\n\"Lucas...\" Imelda takes a deep breath. \"There's something I need to ask you. After the race, what... what's going to happen?\"\n\n\"Easy,\" you say. \"I go where you go. As always.\"\n\nShe smiles. \"That's going to be difficult. I'll be going where you're going. We'll be chasing one another in circles.\"\n\n\"Like dogfighting all over again.\"\n\nShe kisses the corner of your mouth. \"I love you.\"\n\nYou kiss her back, passionately. \"I love you too.\"\n\nMany years later...\n\nThe champagne cork pops explosively and you both jump.\n\n\"Careful,\" Imelda says, \"you'll have someone's eye out.\"\n\nYou pour out two glasses. \"Yes, you have to be careful in that regard.\"\n\n\"Thank you,\" Imelda says, taking a glass and bringing it to her lips.\n\n\"Hold on, we haven't had a toast yet.\"\n\n\"That's easy,\" she says, raising her glass. \"To us. And another twenty years of fucking, flying and friendship.\"\n\n\"To the three 'F's,\" you agree, tapping your glass against hers.\n\n\"The three 'F's.\"\n\nYou take a deep breath of mountain air. The precarious buildings of Aerocity surround you, glistening with frost. \"It's quite a view,\" you say, looking across the world from up high.\n\n\"As good as flying,\" Imelda says. \"Almost as good as love.\"\n\nYou lean together and kiss, the setting sun glinting on snow-topped mountains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "The word \"xyzzy\" is not necessary in this story. Honest.\n\nYou suppress a shiver.\n\n(If you'd prefer not to be notified about score changes in the future, type NOTIFY OFF.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "Paragon of irresponsibility, you decide to rest your weary eyes while at the controls of your plane. You never find out just what it was that you hit in mid-air, in the midst of this intense snowstorm, but by the time you hit the ground you're wide awake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "That isn't one of the options.\n\nWould you like to RESTORE a saved position, RESTART the story, UNDO the last move, see your FULL SCORE, or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "The word \"xyzzy\" is not necessary in this story. Honest.\n\nThe propeller catches and restarts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the parachute", "response": "Not that you expect to bail out, but you never know...\n\nThe engine judders briefly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a revolver, and you're wearing a pair of goggles, a parachute pack, a white scarf, a fur-lined jacket, some breeches, and some sheepskin boots.\n\nThe engine wheezes mechanically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the breeches", "response": "It's extremely cold. You don't really have much to show off right now.\n\nA strong gust of wind rocks the plane.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat them", "response": "Lucas not chew on pants. Lucas officer and gentleman, not hungry orc.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the goggles", "response": "The goggles allow you to keep your eyes open when travelling at high speed through subzero skies.\n\nYou feel the buffeting of the wind against your plane subtly changing its heading.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You're not going to abandon a perfectly good plane in mid-air!\n\nA faint shadow flickers in the corner of your eye, but when you look, there's nothing in that direction but mist.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Biplane Cockpit (sitting in the pilot's seat)\nYou're seated in the cockpit of your Swordfish biplane, exposed to the elements. The small windscreen ahead does little to keep the harsh, icy wind from cutting right through you, and you're surrounded on all sides by blinding white mist.\n\nThe plane's control column juts up in front of you.\n\nThe engine stalls for a second before lurching back to life, something loose and metallic grating inside it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the stick", "response": "The control column moves loosely, clearly having no effect on the plane's ailerons.\n\nThe control column twitches spasmodically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYou feel the plane's nose dropping as your airspeed slows.\n\nTime passes...\n\nYour altimeter reads 200m. You should seriously consider bailing out.\n\nTime passes...\n\nYour altimeter reads 100m. You should seriously consider bailing out.\n\nTime passes...\n\nThe mists below part, and you see the ground for the first time in hours, sharp black rocks breaking through the snow. Thankfully, you don't even feel it when you hit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "The word \"xyzzy\" is not necessary in this story. Honest.\n\nYour plane will have hit the ground by now, shattering into pieces, bursting into flames.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot yourself", "response": "You miss.\n\nBut you're okay. You made it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You don't think it would be a good idea to sleep right now.\n\nYour plane will have hit the ground by now, shattering into pieces, bursting into flames.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Just as soon as you're standing on the ground.\n\nBut you're okay. You made it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot yourself", "response": "You miss.\n\nThe hard part is over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Canopy", "response": "The parachute canopy is too far away.\n\nThe mist beneath you parts. Below you are thick, evergreen trees, garnished with snow, clinging to sharp black rocks.\n\nNow you have a frame of reference, you realise just how fast you're falling.\n\nYou open your eyes. You feel remarkably well given the circumstances. The air is fresh and invigorating, the sound of birdsong and rustling leaves is like soothing music. Time to get moving - for all you know, you might be behind enemy lines.\n\nForest Clearing (lying on the ground)\nSnow-coated evergreen trees surround you on all sides, their roots tangling into rugged black rocks. Snow falls from the bright white sky above.\n\nThe canopy of your parachute is suspended in the branches of a tree, like a giant, tattered spider's web.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine pack", "response": "A bulky backpack that will let you descend gracefully to the ground.\n\nA bird chirrups melodically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search it", "response": "There's nothing unusual in the parachute pack.\n\nYou hear snow crunching nearby. Probably nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "That is not something you can open.\n\nAn icy breeze passes through the clearing, the soft rustling of leaves following in its wake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove it", "response": "Okay, you're no longer wearing the parachute pack.\n\nYou hear snow crunching nearby. Probably nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're Lucas Thane: daredevil fighter ace, knight of the air.\n\nAn icy breeze passes through the clearing, the soft rustling of leaves following in its wake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at leg", "response": "Yep, one functional left leg. Good for standing on and walking with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Just as soon as you're standing on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You sit up, feeling a lot weaker than you thought you were. As you start to shift your legs, something inside your left calf moves. White lightning bolts of pain jolt across your vision and you collapse back with a scream of pain.\n\nYou've broken your leg. You're lying in the freezing snow, and you're not going anywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pack", "response": "A worthless piece of crap that couldn't slow down a feather in an updraft.\n\nYou hear something rustling among the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot yourself", "response": "You miss.\n\nA feral icekin blunders into the clearing, looking around with its empty black eyes. Probably attracted by your scream of pain. Nice going, Lucas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe icekin looks around, breathing heavily through its sharp, uneven teeth.\n\nTime passes...\n\nThe icekin fixes its lifeless black eyes on you, emitting a low growl.\n\nTime passes...\n\nThe icekin lumbers towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe icekin raises its furry white paw. The jagged edge of the rusty blade is brought into sharp relief against the white mists above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nA loud report shatters the quiet, resounding through the forest.\nFlocks of black birds rise in flurries from the trees. The icekin sways slightly on the spot, its blank expression shifting to one of vague confusion. And then it slumps to the ground, almost as if falling suddenly asleep.\n\nA dark figure strides into the clearing, a smoking flare gun in her hand. She lets it fall to the snow and rests a hand on her hip, surveying you with her one good eye. \"So,\" she says. \"It's you. I imagine your plane fared as badly as mine.\"\n\nYou smile in spite of the pain. \"And it's you. Aiding and abetting the enemy. What a poor example of patriotism.\"\n\n\"I'm a mercenary, Lucas, and you're not really one to talk yourself, are you?\" She pauses and sighs. \"After all this time,\" she says softly, \"here we are. Face to face on the ground. It's...\" She trails off.\n\n(You could tell her it feels like you already know her, or play it cool.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot imelda", "response": "You could never! Well, if you were both in planes, certainly. Quite frequently in fact. But not face to face!\n\nAn awkward silence hangs between the two of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play it cool", "response": "You offer her a cordial smiles. \"It's a pleasure to meet you, Baroness.\"\n\nShe laughs. \"Imelda. Just call me Imelda. Come on, we need to get to shelter.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the shelter", "response": "Imelda looks around apprehensively. \"Actually, I think we should get moving rather than hang around chatting. The snowfall's getting thicker all the time.\"\n\n\"I'm not going anywhere,\" you say. \"I think my leg's broken.\"\n\nShe kneels down by your side. \"Let me take a look.\"\n\n\"Be sure to look twice as long,\" you advise her, \"since you just have the one eye.\"\n\nShe purses her lips. \"You're right. I'll do that.\"\n\n\"Ow!\"\n\n\"Yeah, it's broken alright.\"\n\n\"Thanks, doctor.\"\n\n\"I'll have to see about making a splint. And then I guess you'll have to lean on me, if you don't mind.\"\n\n\"Anything to help you feel useful.\"\n\nDowned Triplane (lying on the ground)\nA scarlet triplane lies half-buried in the snow, leaning to one side. You're huddled beneath its slanting wing, mostly sheltered from the freezing wind and falling snow.\n\nImelda is huddled close by your side.\n\n\"It's getting dark,\" Imelda says. \"We'll have to stay here at least for tonight, and then move on tomorrow morning if the weather lets up.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the fire", "response": "You meet Imelda's eye and she looks at you expectantly.\n\nYou chat briefly with Imelda, but find out nothing important.\n\nYour breath leaves little clouds in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the warmth", "response": "You chat briefly with Imelda, but find out nothing important.\n\nYou rub your hands together to try to keep them warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about Imelda", "response": "\"So...\" you begin, \"why not tell me a little about yourself, Imelda?\"\n\nImelda looks thoughtful. \"I suppose... it's a bit of a broad topic. Tell you what, why don't we start with you telling me about myself.\"\n\n\"You want me to tell you about yourself?\" you repeat. \"Don't you already know yourself quite well?\"\n\n\"I'm interested to know what you think of me. Come on, tell me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the thunderbolt", "response": "You look over your shoulder at the fuselage of Imelda's plane. \"So, you think you're too good for just two wings, then?\"\n\n\"Rate of climb,\" she says assuredly. \"Gaining and losing height will win and lose dogfights for you. Three wings give you the capability to climb at an incredible rate. And when you roll, that translates to maneuvrability in any direction. I know there's pilots who like durability or speed, but to me, nothing beats being able to turn to constantly keep your guns on an opponent, especially if they're also struggling to keep their nose up.\"\n\nYou make an ambiguous noise. \"Sounds like it might be alright for some, I suppose.\"\n\nImelda looks at you, fixedly. \"After the war, I'll put you in the pilot's seat of one of these things, and you'll see just what I mean.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about Swordfish", "response": "\"I hear the Swordfish has a pretty good reputation on the other side of the lines.\"\n\nImelda suppresses a smile. \"It kick-started development of the Thunderbolt triplane, I'll give it credit for that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the predicament", "response": "\"This is quite a situation we're in,\" you say.\n\n\"Yep,\" Imelda agrees.\n\n\"Any idea what to do?\"\n\nImelda tips her head to one side. \"Maybe.\"\n\n\"Care to share?\"\n\n\"Well, as I see it, we have two main problems. We need to get to safety tomorrow, and we need to keep warm.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about safety", "response": "\"I was thinking,\" you tell Imelda.\n\n\"Did it hurt?\" she asks.\n\n\"A little. Mostly it was just an unfamiliar sensation. What I was thinking was that we should head south from here. We'll probably reach the Imperial lines in no time. After that, a hot bath, some steaming soup...\"\n\nImelda seems unconvinced. \"Or we could head north. We'll probably reach the Northern lines in no time, after which etcetera, etcetera.\"\n\nYou draw a breath through your teeth. \"I'm not sure I want to end up a prisoner of those icekin soldiers.\"\n\n\"You won't be a prisoner of the icekin soldiers. You'll be my prisoner.\"\n\n\"Sounds a bit kinky for my tastes.\"\n\nImelda smiles slyly. \"You have no idea.\"\n\n\"Maybe we should just split up,\" you suggest. \"I bet we could both make it by ourselves. Then no-one has to be anyone's prisoner.\"\n\nImelda bites her lip. \"I think we should stay together. At the least you need someone to lean on. If you aggravate your broken leg you might end up severing an artery or something...\"\n\n(You could agree to go north with her, ask her to go south with you, tell her you should split up, or tell her you can't decide.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda to go south", "response": "Imelda refuses your request.\n\nSnow continues to drift down from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about benevolent Empire", "response": "\"You're surely a fan of the Benevolent Empire and its attempts to civilise the world?\"\n\nImelda scoffs. \"It's hard to consider an empire benevolent when it thinks that rearranging the world to suit its own economic needs is 'civilising' it.\"\n\n\"You don't think the people of the Northern Territories would benefit from giving us all their noxious petroleum?\"\n\n\"I think they've benefited best by giving it to us Sky Mercenaries.\"\n\nA chill wind passes under the wing, making you both shiver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about benevolent Empire", "response": "\"You're surely a fan of the Benevolent Empire and its attempts to civilise the world?\"\n\nImelda scoffs. \"It's hard to consider an empire benevolent when it thinks that rearranging the world to suit its own economic needs is 'civilising' it.\"\n\n\"You don't think the people of the Northern Territories would benefit from giving us all their noxious petroleum?\"\n\n\"I think they've benefited best by giving it to us Sky Mercenaries.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell her we should split up", "response": "The story doesn't understand that command. Please use ASK ACTOR ABOUT TOPIC (or just A TOPIC).\n\n\"By the way,\" Imelda says, \"why exactly did you feel the need to fly into me?\"\n\n\"That's funny,\" you reply. \"I thought that you were the one who flew into me.\"\n\nThe triplane rocks slightly in the wind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the safety", "response": "\"About where we're headed...\" you begin.\n\n\"Have you reached a decision yet?\" Imelda asks you.\n\nA chill wind passes under the wing, making you both shiver.\n\n(You could agree to go north with her, ask her to go south with you, tell her you should split up, or tell her you can't decide.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell her we should split up", "response": "The story doesn't understand that command. Please use ASK ACTOR ABOUT TOPIC (or just A TOPIC).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell her you should split up", "response": "\"We're still technically enemies,\" you say. \"We'll just have to go our separate ways.\"\n\nImelda shakes her head. \"No, I can't leave you limping through the snow on a broken leg. Look, if you really want me to, I'll go south with you. But I'd much rather you came north with me.\"\n\n(You could agree to go north with her, ask her to go south with you, tell her you should split up, or tell her you can't decide.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda to go south", "response": "Imelda refuses your request.\n\nYour breath leaves little clouds in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the Tiger Sauce", "response": "\"Have you ever had Tiger Sauce?\" you ask.\n\nImelda looks puzzled. \"You mean sauce made from tigers?\"\n\n\"I think it's tiger milk, actually.\"\n\nShe turns her nose up. \"No thanks.\"\n\n\"Oh, you'd be surprised.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda to go south with you", "response": "The story doesn't understand that command. Please use ASK ACTOR ABOUT TOPIC (or just A TOPIC).\n\nSnow continues to drift down from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her to go south with you", "response": "\"I think you should come south with me,\" you say. \"The Benevolent Empire always treats its prisoners well, and I have plenty of clout. We'd be able to spend quite a bit of time together.\"\n\nImelda looks a bit conflicted for a moment. And then she nods. \"Okay. I've looked after you for a while, now maybe it's your turn. I won't be sorry to leave the war behind, either. So, yes, let's go south.\"\n\nThe triplane rocks slightly in the wind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You suggest making a the fire", "response": "You look around. \"I think we could build a fire. If we put it right there it should be close enough to warm us up, but the wind will blow the smoke away from us.\"\n\nImelda crawls out from under the wing and stands up, snow crunching beneath her feet. \"Okay, I'll go find some wood, or anything else that looks like it'll burn. Give me your gun. I'd hate to have to face down a feral icekin with nothing but a couple of pine branches.\"\n\n(You could agree, or politely refuse.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell her you can do better", "response": "You shift your broken leg so that you can grab a couple of sticks from the pile. \"I think the Boy Scouts need to take over here,\" you tell Imelda.\n\nShe gives you a very doubtful look. \"Excuse me? The Sky Guides are more than capable of rubbing two sticks together. Unless you can think of a way an all-male group might have gained extra practice in that regard?\"\n\n\"Clearly you don't have enough confidence in your abilities to just get on with it.\"\n\n\"I'm just trying to get you to save your energy.\"\n\nYou both tend to the sticks in intense silence from then on. But the fire doesn't suddenly spark to life, it forms slowly from a wisp of smoke, and it's hard to tell which of you is more responsible for it. When it's crackling away nicely, you both sit back, shoulder-to-shoulder.\n\n\"I told you to save your energy,\" Imelda says. \"That was clearly my spark that lit it.\"\n\nYou shake your head. \"My sparks were much more vibrant. You could tell they had the Lucas Thane never-give-up attitude.\"\n\n\"Fine, keep lying to yourself. We both know the truth.\"\n\n\"I agree that one of us is in denial, but I don't think it's me.\"\n\nImelda holds out her hands to the fire. \"It's nice that we got it done, though.\"\n\nYou hold out your own hands. \"I don't dispute that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss imelda", "response": "You're not about to kiss the enemy without at least a hint that she'd like you to.\n\nSnow continues to drift down from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the love", "response": "You clear your throat. \"So, Imelda, how are things with the men in your life?\"\n\n\"Do you mean my male friends among the Sky Mercenaries? Or are you sneakily trying to ask about us?\"\n\nYou rub your hands together to try to keep them warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about us", "response": "\"Imelda, about us...\"\n\nShe looks down at her feet. \"What about us?\"\n\n\"Well, what's your take on it? Why do we keep circling around one another? In the air or otherwise.\"\n\nStill without looking at you, she says, \"I can't really remember how we first met, except that I suddenly realised this plane from the 5th Imperial Air Squadron kept seeking me out to duel with me, probably because I'm an obvious target in my scarlet plane. I usually brought down every enemy plane I came across, but you always managed to escape. I only shot you down that once. I started to research you, found out who you were, started to learn your flying style, had a chance to kill you, but didn't take it, and then flew into you in the middle of a snowstorm. And now here we are.\"\n\nThere's a pause, and then she adds, \"But that's not what you asked, really, is it? That's just the story of us - I didn't mention my feelings at all.\" She smiles apologetically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about keeping warm", "response": "You hold your hands out to the fire. \"This is nice.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Imelda agrees, \"my fingers don't feel quite ready to snap off anymore.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hug imelda", "response": "You wrap your arms around Imelda and squeeze her tightly.\n\n\"Why Lucas,\" she says wryly, hugging you back, \"you must contain your obvious desire for me.\"\n\n\"I'm just trying to keep warm,\" you reply.\n\n\"Yes, keep telling yourself that.\"\n\nA chill wind passes under the wing, making you both shiver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss imelda", "response": "You lean over to Imelda and kiss her on the lips. She kisses you back, forcefully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about duelling", "response": "\"It's a strange past-time, really, trying to shoot one another out of the air.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Imelda agrees, \"we should take up chess or ballroom dancing instead.\"\n\nThe triplane rocks slightly in the wind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about what she's doing after the the war", "response": "\"Aside from sticking me in a triplane, you got any plans for after this all blows over?\"\n\nImelda scratches her ear. \"I don't know. I really don't know. I went straight from aristocracy to being a fighter pilot. This is preferable, believe it or not. But you'd have to be insane to want to do this forever. Or maybe I am insane, I don't know. I just don't know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the ballroom dancing", "response": "\"Do you dance?\" you ask.\n\n\"Not when I'm this cold,\" Imelda says. \"But I learnt ballroom dancing when I was young. I can be as graceful on my feet as in the air.\"\n\n\"We'll have to dance some time,\" you suggest.\n\n\"Certainly,\" she says mischievously, \"but I warn you, my hands have been known to wander.\"\n\n\"I'll keep a careful eye on you, don't worry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Imelda about the chess", "response": "\"Do you play chess?\" you ask.\n\n\"More than that,\" Imelda says. \"I win at chess.\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Science Fiction" ]

[ "built-in hints", "child protagonist", "coming of age", "conversation", "cover art", "dog", "pulp", "science fiction", "Spring Thing 2012", "Spring Thing Game", "Spring Thing Winner" ]

[ 1, 8, 7, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "of Earth Alliance rocket ships blasting the vile Martian Rebels with their Atomic Heat Rays might have been a rocket ship blasting off from the mainland, or it might have been a late summer thunderstorm. You open your eyes to the velvety darkness of your bedroom, lit only by\nthe slightly less black square of the window, which is pulsing by\nfaint flashes of light in the sky. You think about getting up and finding your binoculars, but your eyelids are heavy and you drift back to sleep. By the morning, all this is forgotten.\n\n\n\nStory, Photos & Coding: Janos Honkonen\n\nTesting & proofreading: Susi Vaasjoki, Laura Kalli, Will\nEllwood, Nikodemus Siivola, Ilmari Jyskä, Melvin Rangasamy, Joey Jones\n\nmanual, Emily Short for great extensions and Eric Eve & others for\nhelp in rec.arts.int-fiction throughout the years I've been tinkering with IF.\n\n\"Are you sure he will be alright?\" asks mother, struggling under the weight of the crate she's lifting to the boat. Your father glances at you, one foot on the side of the boat, and harrumphs.\n\n'When I was his age I minded the station alone for days' he says, taking the crate effortlessly from your mother, who leans back\npressing her palms against the small of her back. \"And there were\nships back then.\" The weight of the crate makes the boat rock\nlazily, and you glance at the scummy black water between the boat's side and the concrete pier.\n\n\"You will do alright, won't you, son?\" You look up quickly and meet your father's gaze. He has that expression you don't like, his eyes make you squirm and feel nervous; like you have already disappointed him and there will be a belt or a switch in store for you when they\nget back home.\n\n\"No sir! I mean yes sir, I will do my best,\" you stammer over the\ncreak and squeal of the seagulls circling above you, hopeful for a\nfish or an unminded crate of food. Father sighs and helps your mother into the boat. Gogol is on the pier, looking at your parents and the seagulls, tail wagging and tongue lolling out in the breeze.\n\nThe engine roars to life, hitting you with a quickly dissipating headachy and sweet cloud of exhaust, and as it does, for a moment you feel really scared and alone. Mother waves at you, you wave back and spend a few long minutes watching the boat pull off towards the mainland.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "The pier is built in the end of a breakwater that protects the natural bay of the island from northerly winds. There's room for a couple of sailboats or yachts in addition to your motor boat, which is now just\na small dot on the sunlit sea, heading towards the mainland.\n\nThe sky and the sea is hazy, there is a hard westerly wind and you can hear waves whipping and beating the rocky shore on the other side of the island. On the island the only landmark is your house - a lone, tall yellow building used by the pilots in your grandfather's time. Well, there's the navigational cairn on the high northern end of the island, just a pile of rocks painted white. There are only a couple of trees in your yard, otherwise the island has just smooth bare stone, low brushes, lichen and other such hardy plants.\n\nOn the pier there's a windbeaten equipment shack, where you store supplies and fuel for the boat. To the south-east, through the haze\nand across the churning sea, you can make out the towers and buildings of Astro City One, the world's largest rocket base.\n\nGogol looks up at the wheeling seagulls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the astro city", "response": "The air is hazy today, but you can still make out the distant\nbuildings and towers in the mainland. Astro City One is the largest\nand most active rocket base on Earth, usually there are five or six launches per year but now, with all the trouble with the traitorous Martians, there has been almost one launch every month! You remember all the launches you have seen, the sharp ripping sound of the Atomic Pile ripping the world itself, that blinding light and the pillar of smoke that rises higher and higher until your mind and the world goes all weird, because you really see and understand that the\nsmoke and the light go right through the clouds and into the dark of space!\n\nOne day you will travel to Astro City One, step into one of the rocket-ships as a Rocket-Man, and head out to the universe!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Gogol", "response": "Gogol is an Alsatian and you have the same birthday. He's your friend and he's very good at fetching things and catching seagulls!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet Gogol", "response": "You scratch Gogol behind the ears and stroke his bag, he closes his eyes with pleasure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at shack", "response": "supplies. The door of the shack is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the equipment shack, revealing a large orange life vest, a child size life vest, boating supplies and a boat hook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the supplies", "response": "There are ropes, cans of oil, tools, spare parts and all kinds of things like that in the shack, all neat and in order hanging on the walls or set on shelves. Your father will tan your hide if you mess with them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hook", "response": "It's a long wooden pole, at least twice your height, with a hook and a spike in the end. It's used in pulling in equipment, ropes and other things that have fallen in to the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vest", "response": "Which do you mean, the large orange life vest or the child size life vest?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Child", "response": "(first taking the child size life vest)\n\nPutting things on Gogol would achieve nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear child", "response": "(Gogol first taking the child size life vest)\nGogol looks at you, vaguely puzzled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear large", "response": "(first taking the large orange life vest)\nIt's too big for you, better leave it where it is. Father has always said that you shouldn't mess with safety equipment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the equipment shack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na child size life vest", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the equipment shack, revealing a large orange life vest, boating supplies and a boat hook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the child in the shack", "response": "You put the child size life vest into the equipment shack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The wavebreak is a concrete causeway built over a big long pile of rocks to break the waves coming from the north during wintertime. It protects the little bay to the south, which is nice to swim in when\nthe weather is a bit better. The boat shore and the island are to the west, and the pier is to the east.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bay", "response": "There is a small bay in the eastern edge of the island, where you usually swim. There's also a small boat there nobody has used in ages.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rocks", "response": "Your home island is almost completely covered by bare rock, with some hardy lichen and small brushes for vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the boat", "response": "Maybe you'll be able to do that when your superpowers kick in!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The boat shore is actually the innermost nook of the small bay where you swim in the summertime. It's a small nook with some reeds and\nwater plants, and a nice gravely sea bottom without any sharp rocks to hurt your bare feet on. The wavebreak protects the bay, so the water\nis usually pretty calm and sometimes it gets really warm in the\nsummer. There's a small wooden boat, but nobody has used it in a long time since you can't go to the sea with it, just row around the bay\nand very close to the island.\n\nstretches to the east, towards the mainland. Straight to the west are your mother's rose bushes, that hug the side of the house, but you really don't want to go through them because the thorns are sharp enough to bite even through your clothes. The roses are in bloom and gusts of wind wafts their sweet smell to you. You can see something white and plasticky behind the bushes.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the white", "response": "Which do you mean, the navigational cairn or something white?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Something", "response": "You peel apart a few leaves and branches of the rose bushes, careful\nof their thorns, to get a better look. It's a small spray can your mother uses to spray the plants and flowers with. She must have\ndropped it behind the rose bushes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Up close the bushes look quite thorny, and the sweet smelling summer roses are full of buzzing, hairy bumblebees. You tried going through them once, last year, and you are not going to repeat that mistake any time soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The front yard of the house is full of color. Mother has dotted the place with flowerpots and crates, and even small patches of grass. Mother takes very good care of the yard, she says it's her small patch of paradise. There are two small and gnarly trees with needles and a brown bark that shadow the yard a bit.\n\nOn the other side of the yard there is an outbuilding, which is\npainted red and white. The double doors to the outbuilding are open, it's very dark in there and you don't really want to go inside. Next\nto the outbuilding is the red outhouse.\n\nTo the south is the bare rocky center of the island with all the moss and stuff, and you can get to the boat shore and the pier by going northeast. By going northwest you get to the back yard, from where you can climb to the tall hill behind the house, where the navigational cairn is.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowerpots", "response": "There are all kinds of colourful flowers. You are forbidden to touch them, and your father once took the switch to you when you fell over the flowers while playing recklessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "They are pines, you think, you have never been good with trees since you have really seen only two of them. Of course you have been to the mainland, but not that many times. They are rather small and gnarly, and they drop small cones that open their scales when they fall and hurt a lot if you step on them barefooted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cones", "response": "They are small pine cones, you think. On the trees they are shaped\nlike a tear drop, but on the ground they open into a spiky ball that hurts a lot when you step in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cones", "response": "You pick up a few pine cones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fetch the spray can", "response": "Gogol looks at you and makes a sound that's the canine equivalent of \"hmm?\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the cones", "response": "(the handful of pine cones)\nYou don't want to leave them lying around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the cone to Gogol", "response": "(the handful of pine cones to Gogol)\nNo use throwing that thing around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell cones", "response": "(the handful of pine cones)\nThe handful of pine cones smells of nothing unexpected.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the outbuilding", "response": "It's a red and white small building where you store firewood,\ngardening tools and stuff like that. The double doors of the outbuilding are open, revealing the pitch black indoors. You never\nwant to look at there for too long, because⦠what if, right when you look away, you see a glimpse of glowing eyes in there?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the outhouse", "response": "The outhouse is painted red and there's a little heart shaped hole on the door. It's downwind so you don't catch the stink. It's getting\nfull and father will make you help him empty it soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter it", "response": "You don't need to go right now, and it's really not a place you want\nto just hang in.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The front yard of the house is full of color. Mother has dotted the place with flowerpots and crates, and even small patches of grass. Mother takes very good care of the yard, she says it's her small patch of paradise. There are two small and gnarly trees with needles and a brown bark that shadow the yard a bit.\n\nOn the other side of the yard there is an outbuilding, which is\npainted red and white. The double doors to the outbuilding are open, it's very dark in there and you don't really want to go inside. Next\nto the outbuilding is the red outhouse.\n\nTo the south is the bare rocky center of the island with all the moss and stuff, and you can get to the boat shore and the pier by going northeast. By going northwest you get to the back yard, from where you can climb to the tall hill behind the house, where the navigational cairn is.\n\nGogol stands next to you, looking at you questioningly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The back yard of the house is actually on the western side of the building. You just call it the back yard, since right behind the house there's the rocky hill with the navigational cairn on top of it.\n\nThere is a series of clothes lines here tied to metal posts, and there are some of your father's work clothes flapping in the wind. They must be totally dry by now.\n\nThere's a very narrow and steep path to the top of the hill to the north, and there's a ladder leading up to the balcony where the pilots used to keep an eye for approaching ships.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lines", "response": "There are a couple of posts drilled into the rocky ground, and on top of them there are horizontal pieces of pipe, so each of them look like a big letter \"T\" There are some laundry lines tied to them, and your mother has hung up some of your father's work clothes up to dry. There's a dozen or so of overalls, jackets and trousers. They must already be bone dry with all the sunshine and the wind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clothes", "response": "Better not mess with the laundry. If you mess them up, you'll have to wash them by hand. This isn't a mistake you'll want to do more than once.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ladder", "response": "It's a ladder that leads up to the balcony on the third floor of the house. It's meant to be an escape route in case there is a fire, and\nit goes right past the radio room window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the balcony", "response": "On the eastern side of your house there's a small balcony, big enough for one man, chair and a telescope. It's where the pilots of the olden times stood watching for incoming ships.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The top of the hill is almost on the level of the roof of your house, and you have a beautiful view over the whole island. The navigational cairn is eye-blindingly bright seen up close, the white paint really shines and reflects the hazy sunlight. There is not much vegetation in here, except for some patches of crunchy and dry lichen.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rocks", "response": "Your home island is almost completely covered by bare rock, with some hardy lichen and small brushes for vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the island", "response": "Your home island is pretty small, you can run from its one end to another in a few minutes. Almost in middle of the island is your\nhouse, where pilots used to live in your grandfather's time. Not\npilots like rocket-pilots, but men who guided big ships to the\nharbour. You live there with mother, father and Gogol, who is a dog. There are only a couple of trees on the island, and they are in your yard. Otherwise it's just rock and moss and lichen and things like that.\n\nThere's a hill on the north side of the island and there is this navigational cairn, which is just a pile of rocks that are painted white. It's for the ships, so that they don't run to the rocks. In the eastern side of the island there's a small bay and a wavebreak, which leads to your pier. Usually there's just your boat at the pier, but sometimes sailboats come to visit. To the west of the island is the open sea, and there are usually big waves that make a loud noise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cairn", "response": "top of it. The cairn is a pile of rocks that get painted white every year, and in the sunshine it's almost bright enough to hurth your\neyes. It's for the ships so that they know where to go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The back yard of the house is actually on the western side of the building. You just call it the back yard, since right behind the house there's the rocky hill with the navigational cairn on top of it.\n\nThere is a series of clothes lines here tied to metal posts, and there are some of your father's work clothes flapping in the wind. They must be totally dry by now.\n\nThere's a very narrow and steep path to the top of the hill to the north, and there's a ladder leading up to the balcony where the pilots used to keep an eye for approaching ships.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You are on the ladder, right under the balcony and next to the window to the radio room. It's bright outside and the light reflects from the window pane, but you can just about make out the outline of the table and the radio in the corner of the room.\n\nGogol is below you on the ground, waiting for you to come back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "(the radio room window)\nThrough the window you can see some of the furniture of the room, like a table and a radio, but nothing much. The window is latched shut from the inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "By cupping your hand to block the light and leaning closer to the window, you can just about make out the outline of the radio and the table it's on. The unlike the one in the living room, this radio can\nbe used to talk to people too, like the ships.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "This is the balcony where the pilots of the days of yore scanned the seas for incoming ships, and flashed light signals to them. Your\nfather has told you how your grandfather spent his nights and days in here, looking at the horizon with a telescope, and your father had to do that sometimes too. He claims that he had to do it when he was as young as you are, but your mother has said that you shouldn't always believe what your father says.\n\nThere was once a telescope here, you kind of remember seeing it when you were young, but you don't know where it has gone. You'd really\nwant to find it, so you could look at the Moon and Mars, and maybe see some rocket ships!\n\nA ladder leads down from here, and to the east are the doors that lead to the pilots\" room inside the house.\n\nAs you start climbing up, Gogol barks at you and runs around the\ncorner towards the front door of the house. When you climb over the railing of the balcony, you can hear the sound of Gogol's claws as he runs up the stairs, and appears next to you on the balcony. Smart dog!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You are on the ladder, right under the balcony and next to the window to the radio room. It's bright outside and the light reflects from the window pane, but you can just about make out the outline of the table and the radio in the corner of the room.\n\nGogol is above you in the balcony, looking down, his head squeezed through the rungs of the balcony's railing.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The back yard of the house is actually on the western side of the building. You just call it the back yard, since right behind the house there's the rocky hill with the navigational cairn on top of it.\n\nThere is a series of clothes lines here tied to metal posts, and there are some of your father's work clothes flapping in the wind. They must be totally dry by now.\n\nThere's a very narrow and steep path to the top of the hill to the north, and there's a ladder leading up to the balcony where the pilots used to keep an eye for approaching ships.\n\nAs you climb down, Gogol's head vanishes from between the rungs of the balcony's railing. When your feet touch the ground, you can hear Gogol running around the corner to meet you on the back yard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The front yard of the house is full of color. Mother has dotted the place with flowerpots and crates, and even small patches of grass. Mother takes very good care of the yard, she says it's her small patch of paradise. There are two small and gnarly trees with needles and a brown bark that shadow the yard a bit.\n\nOn the other side of the yard there is an outbuilding, which is\npainted red and white. The double doors to the outbuilding are open, it's very dark in there and you don't really want to go inside. Next\nto the outbuilding is the red outhouse.\n\nTo the south is the bare rocky center of the island with all the moss and stuff, and you can get to the boat shore and the pier by going northeast. By going northwest you get to the back yard, from where you can climb to the tall hill behind the house, where the navigational cairn is.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You ponder going inside for a moment, but maybe not quite yet -\nthere's the whole day to spend playing outdoors!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The back yard of the house is actually on the western side of the building. You just call it the back yard, since right behind the house there's the rocky hill with the navigational cairn on top of it.\n\nThere is a series of clothes lines here tied to metal posts, and there are some of your father's work clothes flapping in the wind. They must be totally dry by now.\n\nThere's a very narrow and steep path to the top of the hill to the north, and there's a ladder leading up to the balcony where the pilots used to keep an eye for approaching ships.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "And this is of course WHEN THE MARTIANS ATTACK!\n\nThe crafty bastards were waiting for the command personnel to leave - you can still see the Atomic Engine flame of their ship in the red Martian sky. They have landed ground troops and made fortifications around Firebase Bravo, your main outpost in the war against the filthy Martians. Their command post is on a hill behind the base.\n\nYour mission, soldier, is to destroy that base! You need weapons and explosives to complete the mission, and of course your Robotic Attack Hound Go601!\n\nYou are standing in front of Firebase Bravo under the harsh Martian sky. The winds whip around you and in the horizon you can see the a massive sand storm closing in. The intelligence reports tell of enemy presence and fortifications on the east and west flanks of the base, and on the hill behind the base there is a bunker.\n\nThe best places for supplies are the firebase itself and the Orbital Station, where you can go by the space elevator that's in the easterly direction from the base. You will need at least armor and a helmet,\nand a weapon of some kind!\n\nGo601 is venting excess heat through the snout interface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na laser caltrop mines", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mines", "response": "They are named after an ancient weapon, which was a spiky thing they dropped in the olden times to slow down horses and men. Laser caltrop mines shoot out hundreds of laser beams that fill your feet with\nholes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at go601", "response": "Go601 is a Cyber Hound with titanium teeth and razor sharp claws!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The western flank of Firebase Bravo is totally overrun with the enemy. There is a group of Martians guarding the only road leading up to the mountain and their bunker to the north. There are six of them and they look vigilant, their eye-stalks turning around and their tentacled hands waving around their assault rifles. Some of the Martians are yammering to a communications device in their filthy lingo - they must be jammed before an attack!\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the device", "response": "The soldiers are nattering in their handheld communications devices.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You are standing in front of Firebase Bravo under the harsh Martian sky. The winds whip around you and in the horizon you can see the a massive sand storm closing in. The intelligence reports tell of enemy presence and fortifications on the east and west flanks of the base, and on the hill behind the base there is a bunker.\n\nThe best places for supplies are the firebase itself and the Orbital Station, where you can go by the space elevator that's in the easterly direction from the base. You will need at least armor and a helmet,\nand a weapon of some kind!\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "There is a small rocket base next to Firebase Bravo, it's meant for emergencies only, and the lone rocket ship standing on its launch pedestal has seen better days. It's unlikely to fly anymore - not that you would be thinking of escape, no sir!\n\nThe dastardly Martians have set up fortifications to the west and northwest of here, blocking the way to their bunker on top of the\nhill. There are rolls and rolls of razor wire that will tear a man to shreds.\n\nYou can see a piece of equipment behind the fortifications.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the equipment", "response": "You peer through the rolls of razor wire and damn - there is a flame thrower behind the fortifications! It must have been left there by one of the Martians!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fortifications", "response": "There are coils and coils of laser sharpened razor wire, there's no\nway you can weave your way through it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "leads all the way up to the orbit of Mars. The elevator vanishes up to the pink sky as an impossibly tall and impossibly sharp needle.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "The orbital station is high above the surface and the atmosphere of Mars, and it's used to launch the larger rocket ships that are just\ntoo heavy to land on the planet. There is an equipment storage locker in here.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the locker", "response": "You open the equipment storage locker, revealing a battle armor and a tactical armor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the battle armor", "response": "(first taking the battle armor)\nYou are not qualified to use a full size battle armor, better not mess with unfamiliar equipment!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the tactical armor", "response": "(first taking the tactical armor)\nYou put on the tactical armor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The orbital station is high above the surface and the atmosphere of Mars, and it's used to launch the larger rocket ships that are just\ntoo heavy to land on the planet. There is an equipment storage locker in here.\n\nGo601 assesses the tactical situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the locker", "response": "In the equipment storage locker is a battle armor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "There is a small rocket base next to Firebase Bravo, it's meant for emergencies only, and the lone rocket ship standing on its launch pedestal has seen better days. It's unlikely to fly anymore - not that you would be thinking of escape, no sir!\n\nThe dastardly Martians have set up fortifications to the west and northwest of here, blocking the way to their bunker on top of the\nhill. There are rolls and rolls of razor wire that will tear a man to shreds.\n\nThere is a flame thrower on the ground behind the fortifications.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The laser sharpened razor wire of the fortifications will tear you to bits if you try to go through it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "You are standing in front of Firebase Bravo under the harsh Martian sky. The winds whip around you and in the horizon you can see the a massive sand storm closing in. The intelligence reports tell of enemy presence and fortifications on the east and west flanks of the base, and on the hill behind the base there is a bunker.\n\nThe best places for supplies are the firebase itself and the Orbital Station, where you can go by the space elevator that's in the easterly direction from the base. You will need at least armor and a helmet,\nand a weapon of some kind!\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "The airlock is designed to keep out the dust and poisons of Martian air, and keep the good, healthy Earth air in. It has turned into a storage for all kinds of junk.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the main intersection of the base. The mess is to the west of here, and the rec room is to the east. The airlock that leads outside is south, and there are stairs going up.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "base, but it has evolved into an impromptu equipment storage as well. There's an equipment closet in here, and a refrigerated food storage where the chef stores all the horrible goop she forces the soldiers to eat.\n\nSomeone has left a time bomb sitting on the sink! How irresponsible!\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bomb", "response": "It's a grenade sized explosive that has a timer. You use it by setting the bomb and taking cover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the equipment closet, revealing a battle helmet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the helmet", "response": "It's a state of the art NG-80 battle helmet and it can take a machine gun bullet!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "(first taking the battle helmet)\nYou put on the battle helmet.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "base, but it has evolved into an impromptu equipment storage as well. There's an equipment closet in here, and a refrigerated food storage where the chef stores all the horrible goop she forces the soldiers to eat.\n\nGo601 is scanning the surroundings for enemy activity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close closet", "response": "You close the equipment closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open storage", "response": "You open the refrigerated food storage, revealing a packet of canine motivational treats and some disgusting goop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take both", "response": "packet of canine motivational treats: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close storage", "response": "You close the refrigerated food storage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the treats", "response": "It's a packet of treats that are used in conditioning the Robotic Attack Hounds. They are used as an incentive and as a reward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is the main intersection of the base. The mess is to the west of here, and the rec room is to the east. The airlock that leads outside is south, and there are stairs going up.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The rec room is where the soldiers and the officers relax after a hard day of conquering Mars back for humans. The room also houses the jamming device, which can be used to eavesdrop and jam the Martian broadcasts.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jamming", "response": "It's a state of the art electronic eavesdropping and jamming device, which can be used to eavesdrop the Martian broadcasts or to jam their signals. There's a knob in the front panel with two labels. The device itself is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the knob", "response": "It's a knob with two settings: Eavesdrop and Jam. It's set on Eavesdrop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the jamming on", "response": "You switch the jamming device on.\n\nThe jamming device is in the eavesdrop mode. You can hear the horrible gobbledygook the Martians call a language spouting out from it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the knob", "response": "You turn the knob on the jamming device, and the Martian\ncommunications turn into a screech of static.\n\nThe jamming device emits a horrible hiss and screech as it's jamming the Martian communications.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "The rec room is where the soldiers and the officers relax after a hard day of conquering Mars back for humans. The room also houses the jamming device, which can be used to eavesdrop and jam the Martian broadcasts.\n\nGo601 stands next to you, in attention, waiting for orders.\n\nThe jamming device emits a horrible hiss and screech as it's jamming the Martian communications.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is the main intersection of the base. The mess is to the west of here, and the rec room is to the east. The airlock that leads outside is south, and there are stairs going up.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.\n\nYou can hear the jamming device hiss and crackle in the Rec Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "The eastern end of the upstairs hallway is illuminated by the dim red light coming through the windows. To the north is the door to the barracks, and the hallway continues to the west.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The western half of the upstairs hallway ends at the door of the communications room, which you don't have clearance to enter. Theres a door to the officers' lounge to the north, and a narrow staircase\nleads up to the observatory.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "(first opening the barracks door)\n\nThis is the barracks where you live. There is a sparse bunk in here, a shelf with some educational tapes, and a boot locker with your weapons and equipment.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bunk", "response": "It's where you sleep in between missions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tapes", "response": "There are educational and entertaining tapes of all kinds of subjects, like rocketry, nature and training animals. There's also a manual for operating Cyber Hounds like Go601. It knows a lot of dull and ordinary tricks, but you are really proud that last summer you programmed it to fetch things when you throw canine motivational treats at them. Your moth⦠commanding officer was really angry when all of her garden gear was covered with dog drool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the locker", "response": "You open the boot locker, revealing a smoke bomb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bomb", "response": "(the smoke bomb)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the locker", "response": "It's a storage locker for your personal equipment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bomb", "response": "Which do you mean, the smoke bomb or the time bomb?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smoke", "response": "It's a small explosive which will burst into a cloud of smoke when you throw it against something hard. It's the last one you have.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close locker", "response": "You close the boot locker.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is the barracks where you live. There is a sparse bunk in here, a shelf with some educational tapes, and a boot locker with your weapons and equipment.\n\nGo601 assesses the tactical situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The eastern end of the upstairs hallway is illuminated by the dim red light coming through the windows. To the north is the door to the barracks, and the hallway continues to the west.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The western half of the upstairs hallway ends at the door of the communications room, which you don't have clearance to enter. Theres a door to the officers' lounge to the north, and a narrow staircase\nleads up to the observatory.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The western half of the upstairs hallway ends at the door of the communications room, which you don't have clearance to enter. Theres a door to the officers' lounge to the north, and a narrow staircase\nleads up to the observatory.\n\nGo601 is scanning the surroundings for enemy activity and vents its nasal sensors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "This is the room where the scientists come to warm up and rest after long days and nights out in the cold air of Mars. The observatory, which is open to the Martian air, is to the west, and a narrow staircase leads back down to the upstairs hallway.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is the outdoors observatory where the scientists and other eggheads explore the secrets of the cosmos. Your mission is to protect them and their studies. A door to the east leads back into the base.\n\nThe squad of Martian soldiers guarding the road to the mountain base are almost right below you. They keep scanning the horizon, not thinking about looking up. Stupid Martians!\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Martians", "response": "Martians are horrible betentacled monsters with eye stalks, drooling mouths and sharp teeth!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na smoke bomb\na packet of canine motivational treats\na battle helmet (being worn)\na time bomb\na tactical armor (being worn)\na laser caltrop mines", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the smoke bomb at the soldiers", "response": "You throw the smoke bomb at the squad of Martian monstrosities, and it lands smack in middle of them with a loud crack and a BANG. The smoke envelopes the betentacled monsters, who try in vain to call for help\non their radios!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine time bomb", "response": "It's a grenade sized explosive that has a timer. You use it by setting the bomb and taking cover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The airlock is designed to keep out the dust and poisons of Martian air, and keep the good, healthy Earth air in. It has turned into a storage for all kinds of junk.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the floor.\n\nYou can hear the jamming device hiss and crackle in the Rec Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou can hear the jamming device hiss and crackle in the Rec Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the motivational treat at the thrower", "response": "Go601's head snaps up when you take out the packet of treats, and\nbreak away a small piece. You throw the piece over the fortifications, and Go601 is up in the air almost before the piece has left your fingers. The Cyber Hound soars over the fortifications, landing on all fours on the slippery rock.\n\nThe treat has landed right next to the flame thrower, and Go601 snuffles around it for a moment before grabbing it in his jaws and looking at you questioningly. 'Here, boy, come on!' you shout at it, and Go601 trots behind the Firebase, arriving around the corner a moment later and dropping the fire thrower at your feet. Good boy!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The western flank of Firebase Bravo is still occupied by the Martian menace, but the soldiers who were guarding the road are now coughing\nin the cloud of smoke and trying to figure out what caused it! The filthy Martians are babbling and gargling into their communications devices, which you have jammed. Hahaa!\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack Martians with the flamethrower", "response": "You burst out of your hiding place, and with a blood curdling battle cry you fall on your enemies, spraying around liquid fire that fries the tentacled Martian monsters to bits. They are so distracted by the smoke bomb and their malfunctioning communications that you take three of them out before they even realize what is happening. The rest of them are an easy prey for your flame thrower.\n\nIn mere seconds you are standing amidst the smoking and crackling corpses of the Martian horrors, and the road to their base is open!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The Martian base is a huge bunker built atop the mountain next to Firebase Bravo. The cowardly Martians have sealed themselves in, no doubt waiting for reinforcements to take over the Firebase and the whole area. That must not happen, this foothold has to be destroyed at any cost! The problem is, the bunker has really thick walls.\n\nGo601 follows you, its titanium claws rattling against the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bunker", "response": "(the martian bunker)\nUp close it's even more massive and hideous than seen from afar. They have built it from their concrete-like spit, combined with electrics and electronics. There's a weird device assembly on the top of the bunker, and although it's otherwise seamless, there's something that looks like an entrance: a totally featureless slab with slight seams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine slab", "response": "The bunker entrance is a totally featureless slab, with a seam that's so narrow it could as well be a line drawn with a pen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the device", "response": "You can't fathom most of the functions of the devices, but some of\nthem are quite obvious: there are motion detectors all around the bunker. If you get within a few meters of it, no doubt an alarm will ring inside and you will get swarmed by dozens and dozens of Martian monstrosities pouring out of the entrance. You will need something to slow them down a bit!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the caltrops", "response": "They are named after an ancient weapon, which was a spiky thing they dropped in the olden times to slow down horses and men. Laser caltrop mines shoot out hundreds of laser beams that fill your feet with\nholes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the caltrops", "response": "You run to the bunker door, and hear a whirring sound from the device assembly on top of the bunker, shortly followed by an alert klaxon inside. You place the mines quickly on the ground, toss a few pieces\nof lichen on top of them, and duck around the corner and out of the blast radius. There! Now you have only a few seconds to set the time bomb!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You set the time bomb", "response": "You dash towards the Martian bunker, wary of gunnery holes, secret doorways or other ambushes, but the cowardly Martians are totally sealed in. But oh no, what is this - there are gliders above you and they have spotted you! You have only a few seconds to act, and you decide to make the biggest sacrifice a soldier can make.\n\nYou set the timer for a few seconds and leap on the bunker! You can hear the lasers of the gliders squeawking above you as the Martian glider pilots zero in to you.\n\n\"FOR EARTH!\" you scream and press the bomb against the wall of the bunker, and BOOOOOOOM!\n\nYou fly through the air and land on the ground, blown to shreds by the bomb, but the Martian bunker is destroyed! Now the Earth Command can retake the area and Firebase Bravo, you have lost your life but you will be a hero, maybe they will name the base after you and build you\na statue!\n\nYou stay on your back on the crunchy but soft patch of lichen, and\nlook at the skies. That was an intense game, and a little bit sad, since the hero had to die in the end. But that's war, people die, but they die for their planet and they die as heroes.\n\nGogol walks next to you, sniffs your ear and lies down next to you - a big, hairy warm animal. Although it's windy, the sun is warm and the navigational cairn next to you provides some cover. You turn your head and look past your house to the southern end of the island. For a moment you think there's something silvery and glittery in there, but having been running outside the whole morning, you suddenly realize\nyou are very sleepy.\n\nYou wake up to Gogol licking your face. You splutter and get up,\nwiping the dog drool off your face. You have no idea how long you have slept, your back is a bit sore from lying on the rocky ground, even with the soft lichen. The sun has moved in the sky, you must've slept at least a couple of hours! You feel all groggy and messy, but well rested. Time to go back in, I guess.\n\nWait a minute, is it just sun glinting on the wavesâ¦? No, there\nis something shiny in the sea in the southern end of the\nisland!\n\nThe top of the hill is almost on the level of the roof of your house, and you have a beautiful view over the whole island. The navigational cairn is eye-blindingly bright seen up close, the white paint really shines and reflects the hazy sunlight. There is not much vegetation in here, except for some patches of crunchy and dry lichen.\n\nGogol looks up at the wheeling seagulls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The center of the island is covered by low hardy shrubs whose roots manage to cling to the rocks in the harsh winter winds. Here and there rocks poke through the undergrowth, covered with gray and orange lichen. There's a narrow path through the area to the south of the island - wading through the brush is a good way to rip your clothes\nand turn your ankle on the rocks.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "In the southern tip of the island the vegetation has lost the fight against the winds, and the rocks are almost bare here. There are several pools of water that almost never dry out. Some of them are close enough to the shore that when the tide is in, the waves can fill them up again, but you are not sure where all of them get their water.\n\nThe waves are hammering the shore to the west and south of you, their noise is loud enough to drown the sound of the seagulls. In the east, in the lee side of the island, the waves are much more quiet.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "It takes you a moment to really understand what you are seeing, what\nis the thing that's bobbing up and down with the waves, tangled in the rocks a couple of meters from the shore.\n\nOh my god!\n\nIT'S A SPACE SUIT!\n\nA silvery wrinkled space suit and a large helmet, with a visor that glints in hues of gold, being bashed against the rocks by the waves, it's so bright in the sunshine that it almost hurts your eyes.\n\nNo, wait, oh my god!\n\nIT MOVED, IT JUST MOVED! THERE'S A PERSON IN THERE, IT'S A ROCKET-MAN!\n\nHe's in trouble, he's trying to grab the rocks while clutching a large suitcase to his chest! I must help him!\n\nThe thundering of the waves is ear-splitting in this end of the\nisland, and the air is full of the salty mist of their breaking. In\nthe south the island has no clear waterline (except at high tide), it just gradually vanishes under the sea, leaving tall rocks jutting up from the sea meters and meters from the shore. Father says that there are many shipwrecks close to the south tip because careless captains and sailors came too close to the shore. Often there's all kinds of flotsam floating between the rocks. Now there are only slimy and old sticks, leaves and algae mats, but sometimes you have found cans, bottles and once even plastic doll. In spite of the high winds,\nthere's a stink of rotting seaweed and old fish.\n\nThere's a rocket pilot fighting for his life amidst the waves that are pounding him against the rocks. The stubby gloves of his suit can't\nget a purchase on the slimy rocks, and he's trying to hang on to a small suitcase with one hand.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na white plastic spray can\nan egg timer\na pasta strainer (being worn)\na child size life vest (being worn)\na packet of wieners", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The thundering of the waves is ear-splitting in this end of the\nisland, and the air is full of the salty mist of their breaking. In\nthe south the island has no clear waterline (except at high tide), it just gradually vanishes under the sea, leaving tall rocks jutting up from the sea meters and meters from the shore. Father says that there are many shipwrecks close to the south tip because careless captains and sailors came too close to the shore. Often there's all kinds of flotsam floating between the rocks. Now there are only slimy and old sticks, leaves and algae mats, but sometimes you have found cans, bottles and once even plastic doll. In spite of the high winds,\nthere's a stink of rotting seaweed and old fish.\n\nGogol stands next to you, looking at you questioningly.\n\nThere's a rocket pilot fighting for his life amidst the waves that are pounding him against the rocks. The stubby gloves of his suit can't\nget a purchase on the slimy rocks, and he's trying to hang on to a small suitcase with one hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "The boat shore is actually the innermost nook of the small bay where you swim in the summertime. It's a small nook with some reeds and\nwater plants, and a nice gravely sea bottom without any sharp rocks to hurt your bare feet on. The wavebreak protects the bay, so the water\nis usually pretty calm and sometimes it gets really warm in the\nsummer. There's a small wooden boat, but nobody has used it in a long time since you can't go to the sea with it, just row around the bay\nand very close to the island.\n\nstretches to the east, towards the mainland. Straight to the west are your mother's rose bushes, that hug the side of the house, but you really don't want to go through them because the thorns are sharp enough to bite even through your clothes. The roses are in bloom and gusts of wind wafts their sweet smell to you.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The wavebreak is a concrete causeway built over a big long pile of rocks to break the waves coming from the north during wintertime. It protects the little bay to the south, which is nice to swim in when\nthe weather is a bit better. The boat shore and the island are to the west, and the pier is to the east.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The pier is built in the end of a breakwater that protects the natural bay of the island from northerly winds. There's room for a couple of sailboats or yachts in addition to your motor boat.\n\nThe sky and the sea is hazy, there is a hard westerly wind and you can hear waves whipping and beating the rocky shore on the other side of the island. On the island the only landmark is your house - a lone, tall yellow building used by the pilots in your grandfather's time. Well, there's the navigational cairn on the high northern end of the island, just a pile of rocks painted white. There are only a couple of trees in your yard, otherwise the island has just smooth bare stone, low brushes, lichen and other such hardy plants.\n\nOn the pier there's a windbeaten equipment shack, where you store supplies and fuel for the boat. To the south-east, through the haze\nand across the churning sea, you can make out the towers and buildings of Astro City One, the world's largest rocket base.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the shack", "response": "You open the equipment shack, revealing a large orange life vest, boating supplies and a boat hook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hook", "response": "It takes some effort to yank the long, unwieldy and surprisingly heavy boat hook out of the shack. It's so heavy you have to hold it in the middle when you walk so you don't topple over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the vest", "response": "(the child size life vest)\nYou already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take large", "response": "It's too big for you, better leave it where it is. Father has always said that you shouldn't mess with safety equipment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The thundering of the waves is ear-splitting in this end of the\nisland, and the air is full of the salty mist of their breaking. In\nthe south the island has no clear waterline (except at high tide), it just gradually vanishes under the sea, leaving tall rocks jutting up from the sea meters and meters from the shore. Father says that there are many shipwrecks close to the south tip because careless captains and sailors came too close to the shore. Often there's all kinds of flotsam floating between the rocks. Now there are only slimy and old sticks, leaves and algae mats, but sometimes you have found cans, bottles and once even plastic doll. In spite of the high winds,\nthere's a stink of rotting seaweed and old fish.\n\nThere's a rocket pilot fighting for his life amidst the waves that are pounding him against the rocks. The stubby gloves of his suit can't\nget a purchase on the slimy rocks, and he's trying to hang on to a small suitcase with one hand.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hook man", "response": "You step into the shallow ice-cold water, almost slipping on the slimy rocks under the surface. The boat hook is surprisingly unwieldy, it's heavy and far longer than you are. You try to push it forward to catch the rocket man, but the tip just keeps sinking under the surface\nbefore it reaches him - you are just not strong enough to lift it up.\n\nAn idea! You lift the pole almost straight up, and let it fall towards the suit. Too late you realize, that the hook is quite sharp, you\nmight actuall hurt-\n\nThe hook hits the rocket man straight in the helmet visor, leaving a star shaped crack. You yelp and let go of the shaft, the rocket man jolts and grabs the boat hook, pulling it out of your reach. A wave catches it, flips it around the rocks, and it vanishes amidst the\nsurf. Oh my god, father is going to kill you for losing the hook!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "On the eastern shoreline the waves almost die away, and the rocks shelter you from the sound of the sea a bit. A lot of junk and flotsam makes its way to this shore, pushed in by the winds. Now there are\nsome long and sturdy branches in here, floating in a tangle near the shoreline.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the branches", "response": "You tug at a branch, but it just makes the whole tangle move. There's no way you can untangle one of them from the others!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the branches", "response": "You are not sure from where these branches have come from. They are quite long and all squiggly and in a big mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The westernly winds are pretty high today and the waves keep shooting up to far over your head. The western shore is just slippery rocks,\nyou don't want to go there and get wet or hurt yourself like you did last summer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The thundering of the waves is ear-splitting in this end of the\nisland, and the air is full of the salty mist of their breaking. In\nthe south the island has no clear waterline (except at high tide), it just gradually vanishes under the sea, leaving tall rocks jutting up from the sea meters and meters from the shore. Father says that there are many shipwrecks close to the south tip because careless captains and sailors came too close to the shore. Often there's all kinds of flotsam floating between the rocks. Now there are only slimy and old sticks, leaves and algae mats, but sometimes you have found cans, bottles and once even plastic doll. In spite of the high winds,\nthere's a stink of rotting seaweed and old fish.\n\nThere's a rocket pilot fighting for his life amidst the waves that are pounding him against the rocks. The stubby gloves of his suit can't\nget a purchase on the slimy rocks, and he's trying to hang on to a small suitcase with one hand.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the vest to the pilot", "response": "No use throwing that thing around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gloves", "response": "The rocket man is trying to grab an hold of the rocks, but the gloves are just too thick and clumsy!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pilot, to go east", "response": "The rocket man has better things to do.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "(the small wooden row boat)\nYou step into the boat and sit down.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The wavebreak is a concrete causeway built over a big long pile of rocks to break the waves coming from the north during wintertime. It protects the little bay to the south, which is nice to swim in when\nthe weather is a bit better. The boat shore and the island are to the west, and the pier is to the east.\n\nGogol sniffs something on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boat", "response": "(the small wooden row boat)\nIt's a small wooden boat, which still seems to be intact, although it has gathered some rain water and leaves. It hasn't been used in ages.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search boat", "response": "(the small wooden row boat)\nThe small wooden row boat is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the suitcase", "response": "The rocket man is holding on to a black suitcase which he's trying to keep on his chest and out of the water. It looks kind of heavy, but it must be important!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the vest", "response": "You take off the child size life vest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the vest", "response": "You put on the child size life vest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get man", "response": "He is too far to reach even if you step into the shallow water. Any further and the large waves will push you down and pull you out into the sea!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the water", "response": "It's salty Baltic seawater, churned frothy on the shoreline by the waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na white plastic spray can\nan egg timer\na pasta strainer (being worn)\na child size life vest (being worn)\na packet of wieners", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "The water is a bit too cold for swimming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The boat shore is actually the innermost nook of the small bay where you swim in the summertime. It's a small nook with some reeds and\nwater plants, and a nice gravely sea bottom without any sharp rocks to hurt your bare feet on. The wavebreak protects the bay, so the water\nis usually pretty calm and sometimes it gets really warm in the\nsummer. There's a small wooden boat, but nobody has used it in a long time since you can't go to the sea with it, just row around the bay\nand very close to the island.\n\nstretches to the east, towards the mainland. Straight to the west are your mother's rose bushes, that hug the side of the house, but you really don't want to go through them because the thorns are sharp enough to bite even through your clothes. The roses are in bloom and gusts of wind wafts their sweet smell to you.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "He's clad in a crinkly silvery space suit with a large helmet. His movements are slow, he must be really tired!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the helmet", "response": "The helmet is large and it looks really heavy. The visor of the helmet is covered with gold, so the rocket men won't burn their eyes if they look at the Sun or the flames of the Atomic Engines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na boat hook\na white plastic spray can\nan egg timer\na pasta strainer (being worn)\na child size life vest (being worn)\na packet of wieners", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hook man", "response": "You step into the shallow ice-cold water, almost slipping on the slimy rocks under the surface. The boat hook is surprisingly unwieldy, it's heavy and far longer than you are. You try to push it forward to catch the rocket man, but the tip just keeps sinking under the surface\nbefore it reaches him - you are just not strong enough to lift it up.\n\nAn idea! You lift the pole almost straight up, and let it fall towards the suit. Too late you realize, that the hook is quite sharp, you\nmight actuall hurt-\n\nThe hook hits the rocket man straight in the helmet visor, leaving a star shaped crack. You yelp and let go of the shaft, the rocket man jolts and grabs the boat hook, pulling it out of your reach. A wave catches it, flips it around the rocks, and it vanishes amidst the\nsurf. Oh my god, father is going to kill you for losing the hook!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brush", "response": "(the shrubs)\nThey are a hardy mess of all kinds of low lying plants, that are\nreally hard to rip up from the ground. Sometimes there are beautiful small yellow and purple flowers on them, but not now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the outbuilding", "response": "It's a little bit dark in there⦠It's not like you were afraid of the dark, no, but you just don't need anything from there right now. Really!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the outhouse", "response": "You don't need to go right now, and it's really not a place you want\nto just hang in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine house", "response": "It's a three storey yellow wooden house, with a steep roof and a balcony looking out to the west. According to father that is where the pilots used to stand in the olden times to look for incoming ships. He says that he had to do that also when he was a child, and grandfather was sick or out getting supplies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "The porch has two fly-speckled windows, and the benches under them are covered with all kinds of stuff. You never remember having seen them empty, so that someone could actually sit down when putting on or taking off their shoes. The front hall is to the north.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The front hall is cool and dark with the wood paneled walls and the dark red rugs. There is a closet in the corner with some of your mother's stuff in there. A staircase leads upstairs, and there are\nopen doorways to the kitchen in the west and to the living room to the east.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The living room is dark and cozy, even in the middle of the day. In\nthe air there's an aroma of your father's pipe tobacco, which covers any other scents. Against the wall there's a bookcase with a few of your father's books, and some of yours. There's your father's comfy chair, and the dark green sofa where you and mother sit. On the side table there's the radio.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nThe untuned radio is hissing and crackling, catching the cosmic radiation between the stations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the radio", "response": "It's the large tube radio, from which you listen to the news and radio plays. You are not supposed to touch it without father's or mother's permission.\n\nThe untuned radio is hissing and crackling, catching the cosmic radiation between the stations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the radio", "response": "You're really not supposed to touch it without permission. If\nsomething happens to it, you'll get your hide tanned.\n\nThe untuned radio is hissing and crackling, catching the cosmic radiation between the stations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tune radio", "response": "You turn the knobs frantically, making the radio hiss and howlâ¦\nthere,\nsome speech! Oh no, can't find it again⦠Music! Fast swinging Jazz music!\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "Now that you've found a station, better not mess with it!\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the radio", "response": "You're really not supposed to touch it without permission. If\nsomething happens to it, you'll get your hide tanned.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The living room is dark and cozy, even in the middle of the day. In\nthe air there's an aroma of your father's pipe tobacco, which covers any other scents. Against the wall there's a bookcase with a few of your father's books, and some of yours. There's your father's comfy chair, and the dark green sofa where you and mother sit. On the side table there's the radio.\n\nGogol trots around, sniffing at things.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The front hall is cool and dark with the wood paneled walls and the dark red rugs. There is a closet in the corner with some of your mother's stuff in there. A staircase leads upstairs, and there are\nopen doorways to the kitchen in the west and to the living room to the east.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "The stairs coming from downstairs curve around and lead up to the eastern end of the upstairs hallway, which is dark and shadowy. The only light comes from two small windows on the southern wall. To the north is the door to your bedroom, which is closed, and the hallway\nto the west leads into your parents\" bedroom and father's radio room.\nA very narrow and steep staircase leads up to the attic.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "room, where you are not allowed. To the north is the door to your parents\" bedroom.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "(first opening the radio room door)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The kitchen is the domain of your mother. The spice rack is full of small bags and glass jars, the fridge hums to itself in the corner and the door to the pantry is covered with flower stickers. There are flower patterned drapes in the window, and the kitchen table is full\nof pots, pans and baking implements. There's some flour still on the table from yesterday night, when your mother baked some cinnamon\nrolls. The air in the kitchen smells of a mix of dozens of yesterdays\" meals, breads and pastries.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The kitchen is the domain of your mother. The spice rack is full of small bags and glass jars, the fridge hums to itself in the corner and the door to the pantry is covered with flower stickers. There are flower patterned drapes in the window, and the kitchen table is full\nof pots, pans and baking implements. There's some flour still on the table from yesterday night, when your mother baked some cinnamon\nrolls. The air in the kitchen smells of a mix of dozens of yesterdays\" meals, breads and pastries.\n\nGogol sniffs something on the ground.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fridge", "response": "You see nothing special about the fridge.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the fridge, revealing Foodstuffs.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the foodstuffs", "response": "Cans and pots and pans full of your mother's cookings.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the foodstuffs", "response": "You are not hungry right now, and you aren't supposed to sneak snacks between meals anyway!\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the fridge", "response": "You close the fridge.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The front hall is cool and dark with the wood paneled walls and the dark red rugs. There is a closet in the corner with some of your mother's stuff in there. A staircase leads upstairs, and there are\nopen doorways to the kitchen in the west and to the living room to the east.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The porch has two fly-speckled windows, and the benches under them are covered with all kinds of stuff. You never remember having seen them empty, so that someone could actually sit down when putting on or taking off their shoes. The front hall is to the north.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the benches", "response": "It's just all kinds of stuff someone set down on the bench for a moment, and forgot it there.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack window", "response": "(the radio room window)\nI have no ill will towards radio room window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(first opening the radio room window)\nIt is latched shut from the inside. Better not mess with it, you are not allowed to be in there or even peek through the window. Or to\nclimb on the ladder, for that matter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the latch", "response": "It's a simple latch that closes the window from the inside. There's a bit of a crack on the window pane, and you have many times wondered if you could jimmy it open somehow⦠But there's no way you would ever dare to try that, you'll father would tan your hide and no mistake if you ever got caught.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na white plastic spray can\nan egg timer\na pasta strainer (being worn)\na child size life vest (being worn)\na packet of wieners", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crack", "response": "pane, and if the light is right, you can see the latch there. You just might be able to lift it up with a suitable tool⦠But no way you'd ever dare to try that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pasta", "response": "It's the little round-bottomed kettle mother uses to strain water out of pasta.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the timer", "response": "It's yellow and shaped like a lemon. When you twist it, you can make\nit ring in a few seconds or a few minutes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The back yard of the house is actually on the western side of the building. You just call it the back yard, since right behind the house there's the rocky hill with the navigational cairn on top of it.\n\nThere is a series of clothes lines here tied to metal posts, and there are some of your father's work clothes flapping in the wind. They must be totally dry by now.\n\nThere's a very narrow and steep path to the top of the hill to the north, and there's a ladder leading up to the balcony where the pilots used to keep an eye for approaching ships.\n\nGogol trots around, sniffing at things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search benches", "response": "There's really nothing there I need or want to touch.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stuff", "response": "It's just all kinds of stuff someone set down on the bench for a moment, and forgot it there.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The porch has two fly-speckled windows, and the benches under them are covered with all kinds of stuff. You never remember having seen them empty, so that someone could actually sit down when putting on or taking off their shoes. The front hall is to the north.\n\nGogol is sitting near you, panting with his tongue out.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The front hall is cool and dark with the wood paneled walls and the dark red rugs. There is a closet in the corner with some of your mother's stuff in there. A staircase leads upstairs, and there are\nopen doorways to the kitchen in the west and to the living room to the east.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You open the front hall closet, revealing a cleaning rag.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rag", "response": "It's a big dirty piece of cloth, an old cover of something, which your mother uses when cleaning the floors.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rag", "response": "Mother makes me clean stuff all the time, I'm not doing it if I don't have to!\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The front hall is cool and dark with the wood paneled walls and the dark red rugs. There is a closet in the corner with some of your mother's stuff in there. A staircase leads upstairs, and there are\nopen doorways to the kitchen in the west and to the living room to the east.\n\nGogol sniffs something on the ground.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the staircase", "response": "According to dad this is the old original staircase of the house, made of oak. The stairs are thick and they are so worn their corners are\nall round.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The kitchen is the domain of your mother. The spice rack is full of small bags and glass jars, the fridge hums to itself in the corner and the door to the pantry is covered with flower stickers. There are flower patterned drapes in the window, and the kitchen table is full\nof pots, pans and baking implements. There's some flour still on the table from yesterday night, when your mother baked some cinnamon\nrolls. The air in the kitchen smells of a mix of dozens of yesterdays\" meals, breads and pastries.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Twist timer", "response": "You'd rather not listen to it making a horrible racket.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The living room is dark and cozy, even in the middle of the day. In\nthe air there's an aroma of your father's pipe tobacco, which covers any other scents. Against the wall there's a bookcase with a few of your father's books, and some of yours. There's your father's comfy chair, and the dark green sofa where you and mother sit. On the side table there's the radio.\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the books", "response": "The living room bookcase is full of your and your father's books. You don't feel like reading now, though.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at chair", "response": "Father's comfy chair is large and made out of leather and dark green plush. The seat is worn, you father has spent his evenings sitting there as long as you can remember.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search chair", "response": "There is nothing on the comfy chair.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the chair", "response": "It feels surprisingly hard, father's weight has flattened all the stuffing.\n\nThe radio plays some Jazz in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the comfy chair.\n\nThe living room is dark and cozy, even in the middle of the day. In\nthe air there's an aroma of your father's pipe tobacco, which covers any other scents. Against the wall there's a bookcase with a few of your father's books, and some of yours. There's your father's comfy chair, and the dark green sofa where you and mother sit. On the side table there's the radio.\n\nGogol stands next to you, looking at you questioningly.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move it", "response": "It's really not smart to mess around with the bookcase.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the radio", "response": "You're really not supposed to touch it without permission. If\nsomething happens to it, you'll get your hide tanned.\n\nJazz music is blaring out of the radio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "The attic is a cluttered, low space with a slanted roof. It's a scary place with dark nooks and crannies, piles of boxes and all kinds of weird junk. The only light is a lone bulb that has gone dim and yellow with age.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine boxes", "response": "The are boxes and boxes of old magazines, toys and other stuff in the attic. You are not really supposed to dig into them, because the piles of boxes can topple over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the junk", "response": "Better let all that dusty stuff lie, mother will flip if you make a bigger mess in here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The attic is a cluttered, low space with a slanted roof. It's a scary place with dark nooks and crannies, piles of boxes and all kinds of weird junk. The only light is a lone bulb that has gone dim and yellow with age.\n\nGogol is sitting near you, panting with his tongue out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "(first opening the door to your room)\n\nYour room is a small but very nice. It has a slanted ceiling and there's just enough space for your bed, your desk and a closet with your toys and clothes. There's a shelf for your books.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You open your closet, revealing your stuff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "Your bed is starting to get a bit short for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "It's your desk at which you read, draw and do your home work.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Your room is a small but very nice. It has a slanted ceiling and there's just enough space for your bed, your desk and a closet with your toys and clothes. There's a shelf for your books.\n\nGogol sniffs something on the ground.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Your room is a small but very nice. It has a slanted ceiling and there's just enough space for your bed, your desk and a closet with your toys and clothes. There's a shelf for your books.\n\nGogol is sitting near you, panting with his tongue out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The stairs coming from downstairs curve around and lead up to the eastern end of the upstairs hallway, which is dark and shadowy. The only light comes from two small windows on the southern wall. To the north is the door to your bedroom, which is open, and the hallway to the west leads into your parents\" bedroom and father's radio room. A very narrow and steep staircase leads up to the attic.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "Gogol trots after you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Gogol stands next to you, looking at you questioningly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(first opening the balcony door)\n\nThis is the balcony where the pilots of the days of yore scanned the seas for incoming ships, and flashed light signals to them. Your\nfather has told you how your grandfather spent his nights and days in here, looking at the horizon with a telescope, and your father had to do that sometimes too. He claims that he had to do it when he was as young as you are, but your mother has said that you shouldn't always believe what your father says.\n\nThere was once a telescope here, you kind of remember seeing it when you were young, but you don't know where it has gone. You'd really\nwant to find it, so you could look at the Moon and Mars, and maybe see some rocket ships!\n\nA ladder leads down from here, and to the east are the doors that lead to the pilots\" room inside the house.\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The thundering of the waves is ear-splitting in this end of the\nisland, and the air is full of the salty mist of their breaking. In\nthe south the island has no clear waterline (except at high tide), it just gradually vanishes under the sea, leaving tall rocks jutting up from the sea meters and meters from the shore. Father says that there are many shipwrecks close to the south tip because careless captains and sailors came too close to the shore. Often there's all kinds of flotsam floating between the rocks. Now there are only slimy and old sticks, leaves and algae mats, but sometimes you have found cans, bottles and once even plastic doll. In spite of the high winds,\nthere's a stink of rotting seaweed and old fish.\n\nGogol sniffs something on the ground.\n\nThere's a rocket pilot fighting for his life amidst the waves that are pounding him against the rocks. The stubby gloves of his suit can't\nget a purchase on the slimy rocks, and he's trying to hang on to a small suitcase with one hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get man", "response": "Gogol looks at you, vaguely puzzled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the wiener at the man", "response": "There's no way you can swim in the crashing waves but⦠Maybe Gogol can! He's a very good swimmer! Gogol quiets down as he notices you digging out the wieners and breaking off a piece. The treat arcs through the air and BULLSEYE, it hits the rocket man straight on his tummy. Gogol turns to look at you, as if saying \"are you serious?\",\nbut leaps after the treat. He splashes through the low water and leaps into the waves, reaching the rocket man in seconds.\n\nThe rocket man doesn't seem to realize what's happening, he keeps fighting Gogol who is pushing and dragging him towards the shore.\n\nThen, finally, his feet and back hit the rocky shore underwater - he crawls around on all fours up to the shore, dragging the suitcase\nafter him, and rolls over to his back.\n\nGogol shakes himself dry, and resumes barking and circling the supine rocket man.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "There are tons of things you would like to ask rocket man about, like the universe, the war, his rocketship. You could also tell him about something.\n\non the seal of his helmet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about suitcase", "response": "He won't probably hear you with his helmet on, especially with the roaring of the waves.\n\nThe rocket man is fiddling with the clasps of his helmet, opening them one by one, slowly with his stubby thick gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThere is a hiss and a pop, as the rocket man unfastens the last clamp holding his helmet shut, and pulls it off. It is a man - a pale young man with black hair that's matted down from sweat. His cheeks are all flushed and his eyes are red.\n\nGogol jumps forward and starts barking. The eyes of the rocket man widen and he gets half up, trying to crawl away from Gogol.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the man", "response": "The rocket man can't tear his eyes off Gogol, who's barking ferociously! The man looks really scared!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "He looks quite pale, but flushed. His dark hair is all sweaty and\nflat, and he looks really tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the wieners to Gogol", "response": "You break off a piece and throw it at Gogol, who snaps it off straight from the air.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The thundering of the waves is ear-splitting in this end of the\nisland, and the air is full of the salty mist of their breaking. In\nthe south the island has no clear waterline (except at high tide), it just gradually vanishes under the sea, leaving tall rocks jutting up from the sea meters and meters from the shore. Father says that there are many shipwrecks close to the south tip because careless captains and sailors came too close to the shore. Often there's all kinds of flotsam floating between the rocks. Now there are only slimy and old sticks, leaves and algae mats, but sometimes you have found cans, bottles and once even plastic doll. In spite of the high winds,\nthere's a stink of rotting seaweed and old fish.\n\nThe rocket man is lying on the shore, looking scared and bewildered, hunching against a rock and away from Gogol.\n\nGogol is barking his head off at the rocket man, who looks horrified!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the suitcase", "response": "It's not really a suitcase, like you have for traveling. It's more of\na black metal case with some letters you can't read, and it looks really heavy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the helmet", "response": "The helmet is large and it looks really heavy. The visor of the helmet is covered with gold, so the rocket men won't burn their eyes if they look at the Sun or the flames of the Atomic Engines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "Gogol looks at you, it's tail end doing a restless jig, and touching the ground long enough to it almost count as sitting. Sigh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie down", "response": "\"Be quiet Gogol!\" you scream loud enough to get the dog's attention.\nHe quiets down and walks to you, eyeing the rocket man suspiciously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "As you speak up, the rocket man finally seems to notice you. He eyes your head and furrows his brow.\nYou realize you are still wearing the pasta strainer you used for a helmet.\n\n\"So⦠kid, what are you supposed to be?\" the rocket man says. His\nvoice\nis gravelly, like he had a sore throat, and he has a strange accent.\n\n\"I'm a rocket man!\" you say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "The rocket man seems to be lost in thought for a moment, and then he raises his eyes at you. \"Hey kid, is there any place you could help me hide in? I'm on a really secret mission, and I need to stay somewhere until it's dark outside. You can't tell anyone about me, you hear me! So, do you know anywhere?\" A secret mission! Wow!\n\nYou can think of several hiding places. You could tell the rocket man about the outbuilding, the equipment shack, living room (it's easy to hide under the table there), your room or the attic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the mission", "response": "\"Yeah, I'm on a secrâ¦\" he begins, but then blinks a couple of times and shakes his head, as if to clear his mind. \"Hey, kid, just please help me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about the table", "response": "The rocket man listens to you for a moment, and then interrupts. \"Really, kid, you've got to help me hide somewhere!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell man about the living room", "response": "\"Our living room table is pretty big, I once hid an hour under it and my mother couldn't find me!\" you tell the rocket man, who just stares at you for a moment. \"I⦠I don't think I can really fit under a\ntable,\nkid.\" he finally says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about your room", "response": "You think for a moment before saying \"I could hide you in my room!\"\nThe rocket man rubs his eyes, that are all red.\n\n\"Are you really sure that your parents don't find me there? It's very important that nobody knows I'm here!\" the rocket man says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "The rocket man walks like he was carrying a ton of bricks on his shoulders, and he has to stop to catch his breath a couple of times.\nIt takes you a good while to walk across the island and into the front yard. The house is cool on the inside, and you need to stop and blink for a moment before you can see anything in the indoor gloom.\n\nFor a moment you think that the rocket man won't be able to get up the stairs, and when you finally get him in your room, he collapses on\nyour bed that creaks in protest. He falls asleep almost immediately when his head hits the pillow. You happen to glance out of the window, and see your family ship a few minutes out of the pier. You run down\nto meet your parents.\n\nFather always wants you to help with unloading the supplies, and you work up a good sweat carrying the boxes of tomatos and flour and potatos from the boat to the cool air of the kitchen. When you are heading out, you bump into mother who's heading upstairs. To this day you don't know what happened - you make it barely to the front door when you can hear her scream.\n\nThe next few moments are a panicky blur. Mother grabbing you and screaming for your father, the rocket man and father wrestling on the yard. Much later the serious men in uniforms, the endless questions from them and your parents, and the worst thrashing your father has ever given you.\n\nNot a day has gone by since without you thinking about who the rocket man was, and what happened to him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about the attic", "response": "\"Well, our house has a big attic. But it's pretty scary place especially when it's dark. Oh, there's a lamp there, so it's not dark like that\", you say. The rocket man coughs and wipes sweat and salt water spray from his face. \"That sounds pretty good, kid,\" he says. \"You have family, don't you? Are you sure your parents won't find us there?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "It takes some time for the rocket man to get to his feet, and whoa - he's tall, way taller than your father. Not a big man, though, like dad, but now that his suit isn't all full of air, he looks quite lean.\n\nIt takes you quite some time to reach the house, since the rocket man walks like he was carrying a ton on bricks on his shoulder. He has to lean on the door frame for a while when you reach the porch. His skin is quite pale, and but his cheeks are all red. He looks like you did when you had the high fever last summer.\n\nIt takes a long time for the rocket man to climb up the stairs to the second floor, and even longer to get to the attic. When you get there, he almost falls down on the floor, and crawls to a corner next to a\nbig pile of boxes. Oh man, he must be really tired!\n\nYou take a step towards the rocket man, and catch a glimpse outside of the window. Oh, the family ship is just a few minutes out!\n\nThe attic is a cluttered, low space with a slanted roof. It's a scary place with dark nooks and crannies, piles of boxes and all kinds of weird junk. The only light is a lone bulb that has gone dim and yellow with age.\n\nboxes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The stairs coming from downstairs curve around and lead up to the eastern end of the upstairs hallway, which is dark and shadowy. The only light comes from two small windows on the southern wall. To the north is the door to your bedroom, which is closed, and the hallway\nto the west leads into your parents\" bedroom and father's radio room.\nA very narrow and steep staircase leads up to the attic.\n\nOH NO! There are dirty and muddy footprints that lead to the\nattic staircase!\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "The front hall is cool and dark with the wood paneled walls and the dark red rugs. There is a closet in the corner with some of your mother's stuff in there. A staircase leads upstairs, and there are\nopen doorways to the kitchen in the west and to the living room to the east.\n\nThere are huge muddy bootprints leading upstairs!\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You open the front hall closet, revealing a cleaning rag.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.\n\nYou can already hear the sound of the boat engine outdoors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take rag", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "The stairs coming from downstairs curve around and lead up to the eastern end of the upstairs hallway, which is dark and shadowy. The only light comes from two small windows on the southern wall. To the north is the door to your bedroom, which is closed, and the hallway\nto the west leads into your parents\" bedroom and father's radio room.\nA very narrow and steep staircase leads up to the attic.\n\nThere are dirty and muddy footprints that lead to the attic staircase!\n\nGogol trots after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean footprints", "response": "You wipe the mud and water, or rather just smear it wider. At least\nthe big bootprints aren't visible anymore!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean bootprints", "response": "You wipe the floor quickly, smearing the outlines of the big bootprints. Well, at least they aren't recognizable anymore!\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.\n\nThe boat engine growls and purrs, father must be maneuvering it to the dock already!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The porch has two fly-speckled windows, and the benches under them are covered with all kinds of stuff. You never remember having seen them empty, so that someone could actually sit down when putting on or taking off their shoes. The front hall is to the north.\n\nThere are huge muddy and wet bootprints on the porch floor!\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean bootprint", "response": "You mop the floor with the rag, which can't absorb much of the mess, but at least it can obscure the footprints.\n\nThat's it! You have the time to return the cleaning rag to the closet and run to meet your parents, before they barge in. You did it!\n\nYour mother comes in first, stops when she hears the radio, and clucks her tongue. \"You know your dad doesn't like it if you mess with the radio, go and turn it off before he comes in!\" your mother says. You skip obediently to the living room, feeling a weird mix of relief and excitement.\n\nUnloading the supplies from the ship, unpacking them and storing all the items keeps you busy for most of the afternoon, and after that mother asks you to help her with the dinner. You try to sneak a minute or two to go to the attic, but without success - it seems that when\nyou get one of your tasks done, the next one is already waiting. Soon the sun kisses the horizon and the evening draws in. Your excitement turns into scared and tense anticipation; there's no telling when the rocket man will wake up, and what will he do when he does.\n\n\"The conflict between the Earth Alliance and the rebels of Mars has escalated, and there has been heavy fighting in the low Earth orbit,\nas well as around the Mars orbital stations.\"\n\nThe radio murmurs in the corner of the living room, while you poke at the dinner with your fork. Father is sitting in his chair, smoking his pipe. The smoke curls around the yellow bulbs on the ceiling, making the air hazy. Your mother gives the radio a hostile look, and another to your father. \"The news is so horrible these days. Turn it off, you're upsetting the boy.\"\n\n\"Last night there were reports of small one man rockets, classified as shuttles, breaking through the lines of the Earth defense vessels. It is believed that all of them-\"\n\nThe radio goes silent with a deep clunk. Your dad looks up\nfrom his newspaper to your mom, who turned it off. \"I don't want to hear a single word about the war today!\", mother huffs. Your father grunts in displeasure, but lifts up his magazine while mom walks to\nthe table. \"You, if you are not hungry, go for a wash and then off to bed!\" she says.\n\nYou try to take every chance to sneak up to the attic, but it's no use - your mother is sorting linen upstairs, and she ushers you directly\nto your room, and turns off the lights after you. You lie down in the bed, staring at the rectangle the moonlight draws on the ceiling, absolutely sure that you just can't fall asleep tonight-\n\nYou jolt awake, not sure if if you were just dreaming⦠but then you can hear it again. Slight shuffling, a muffled clank, the creak of the boards as someone is moving upstairs. The rocket man is awake! You\nhold your breath and listen for a moment, but the house is otherwise silent. Hopefully Gogol is outside, so he won't start barking. This is your chance!\n\nYour room is small and dark, and now it's illuminated only by the silvery moonlight coming through the window. You can barely make out your bookshelf and your closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "(first opening the door to your room)\n\nThe eastern end of the upstairs hallway is almost completely dark. To the north is the door to your room, and the hallway to the west leads to your parents' bedroom and the radio room. You can hear your father snoring even here. The main staircase winds down to the front hall,\nand the narrow attic staircase leads up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "When you start to climb up the narrow attic stairs, almost on all fours, you can see the faint light of the single bulb upstairs. You poke your head out of the hatch on the floor, and see the rocket man\non the other side of the attic. He has the suitcase on his lap. Something alerts him, you don't know what, and his head snaps up with\na click. It takes you a moment to realize that the sound was him slamming the case shut.\n\nAfter a second he smiles, and whispers quite loudly: \"Hello, kid, thanks for helping me. Could you sit with me for a while, there's something I'd like to ask you.\" The rocket man opens the suitcase and starts tinkering with whatever he has in there.\n\nThe attic is a cluttered, low space with a slanted roof. It's a scary place with dark nooks and crannies, piles of boxes and all kinds of weird junk. The only light is a lone bulb that has gone dim and yellow with age.\n\nThe rocket man is sitting up in the end of the attic, leaning against the wall. The rocket man has peeled off the top part of his suit and his shirt, revealing his upper body. He's really pale and also lean, like a gymnast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "You don't really know what to say. There is a ton of things you'd like to ask the rocket man about - like the war, Mars, his mission, and a million other things!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the suitcase", "response": "You can think of a million things you would like to ask about from rocket man: his rocket, the martians, his mission⦠Before you get any of them out of your mouth, the rocket man looks up from his work and smiles at you.\n\n\"So, kid, thanks for not telling your parents about me. I'm on a very very secret mission, and nobody but you and me should know about it.\" The rocket man shoots you a stern glance, and you find yourself\nnodding vigorously.\n\n\"Now, then, this is an island if I'm not mistaken. Is there any way\nout here? Like a ship or such? I need to get to Astro City One in a hurry!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask man about the mars", "response": "\"I bet you have been to Mars!\" you say to the rocket man. \"What kind\nof a place is it?\" The rocket man pauses his work with the suitcase\nfor a moment, and looks up. He has a weird expression on his face,\nlike he was sad.\n\n\"There's lots of empty space in Mars, these red fields of rock and sand. In the seas and the lakes the waves are tens of meters high, and much slower than in here. The sky is reddish gray on the daytime, and blazes red and violet in the mornings and eveningsâ¦\" He falls quiet for a moment, and resumes working with the suitcase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the suitcase", "response": "The rocket man is hunched over the open suitcase. You try to peer around the open lid, but you can't see much, only some wires and weird stuff you can't make out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the war", "response": "\"It's great that we have people like you to fight the vile Martians\nwho threaten our freedom!\" you say. The rocket man is quiet for a moment and doesn't look up from his work. \"How exactly do they do\nthat? From Mars?\" he asks, quietly. You get a feeling that you said something stupid, but you don't really know why.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about Earth", "response": "\"Astro City One is certainly the greatest place on Earth, isn't it!\" you say enthusiastically. \"Well, I've seen bigger bases. They are in zero-G, thoughâ¦\" the rocket man mutters while concentrating on tinkering with the suitcase. \"Where?\" you ask, and he seems to snap\nout of his concentration. \"Nowhere, never mind.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about Gogol", "response": "\"Why were you so afraid of Gogol, he's a nice dog?\" you ask. The\nrocket man clears his throat. \"Well, I just am, okay?\" he replies almost angrily.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the name", "response": "He seems to be really concentrating on the suit case. You wait for his reply, but after a while you start to think that he didn't hear you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask man about yourself", "response": "\"Do you think I can ever be a rocket man?\" you ask. The rocket man looks at you for a couple of seconds. \"I don't see why not, if you are healthy. Just remember to exercise a lot and do what your parents tell you to.\" he replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the mission", "response": "\"What is your mission, is it about that suitcase?\" you ask, with your heart beating like crazy. The rocket man bites his lips for a moment and glances up at you. \"In this suitcase I have some enemy\nintelligence I caught from the... the vile Martians. I need to get these to Astro City one as soon as possible.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask man about the rocket", "response": "\"How did you end up in the sea? Where's your rocket ship?\" you ask. \"I got⦠there was an accident, I had to crash land.\" the rocket man\nsaid.\n\n\"Okay, I'm ready to leave,\" the rocket man says and closes the\nsuitcase with a snap. He gets up, grunting and pressing his hand against his side. You watch as he pulls on his undershirt, which is some kind of thermal space material, and zips up his space suit.\n\nGetting out of the house is nerve wracking, especially in the attic stairs where the clumsy space suit makes all kinds of noise. Luckily your father's snoring covers it all up.\n\nNot even Gogol launches into a barking attack when you go outside.\n\nThe Moon is bright and the sea is calm. You watch over the sea towards the glittering towers of the Astro City one.\n\n\"Well, that's it then\", rocket man says, giving the last evaluating glance to the family ship on the pier. \"I guess I'll have to swim for it.\" He gives you one last smile and a wave, fastens his helmet and lowers himself to the water in the end of the pier.\n\nYou stay on the pier, watching his small bobbing form vanish to the glitter of moon light on the sea.\n\nYou never told anyone about the weird encounter you had that day. Not even 40 years later, when they make the marine archaeological find of the century just a couple of kilometers away from your childhood's\nhome island.\n\n\"The one that got away.\" A find that could have changed the whole history of Earth-Mars relations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open closet", "response": "You open the front hall closet, revealing a cleaning rag.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take rag", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "The stairs coming from downstairs curve around and lead up to the eastern end of the upstairs hallway, which is dark and shadowy. The only light comes from two small windows on the southern wall. To the north is the door to your bedroom, which is closed, and the hallway\nto the west leads into your parents\" bedroom and father's radio room.\nA very narrow and steep staircase leads up to the attic.\n\nThere are dirty and muddy footprints that lead to the attic staircase!\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nYou can already hear the sound of the boat engine outdoors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wipe footprints", "response": "You wipe the mud and water, or rather just smear it wider. At least\nthe big bootprints aren't visible anymore!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wipe footprints", "response": "You wipe the floor quickly, smearing the outlines of the big bootprints. Well, at least they aren't recognizable anymore!\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The porch has two fly-speckled windows, and the benches under them are covered with all kinds of stuff. You never remember having seen them empty, so that someone could actually sit down when putting on or taking off their shoes. The front hall is to the north.\n\nThere are huge muddy and wet bootprints on the porch floor!\n\nGogol trots after you.\n\nYou heard the hiss and the crackle of an untuned radio in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about the boat", "response": "You can think of a million questions to ask from rocket man, his rocket, the martians, his mission⦠Before you get any of them out of your mouth, the rocket man looks up from his work and smiles at you.\n\n\"So, kid, thanks for not telling your parents about me. I'm on a very very secret mission, and nobody but you and me should know about it.\" The rocket man shoots you a stern glance, and you find yourself\nnodding vigorously.\n\n\"Now, then, this is an island if I'm not mistaken. Is there any way\nout here? Like a ship or such? I need to get to Astro City One in a hurry!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about the boat", "response": "\"Well, we have this old row boat on the shore. We usually don't go out on the sea with it, because it's dangerous.\" you say. \"Old wooden boatâ¦\" the rocket man rubs his chin and you hear the rasping sound of a beard stubble. \"You know, kid, that's perfect! That's absolutely perfect, if it can stay afloat that is. Just a moment now, I'll have\nto finish with this damn thing.\" he continues, twisting something inside the suitcase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about the ship", "response": "\"We have a nice ship which father always takes to the mainland. It has a good engine, although father always curses about it.\" you say. \"A large ship, with an engine⦠with a metal hull, I guess?\" the rocket man says and raises is eyebrows. You nod. \"Ah, that won't do, sorry. Don't you have anything smaller?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask man about the man", "response": "\"So⦠who are you?\" you ask. The rocket man pauses his work for a moment. \"I'm⦠a commando operative. Do you know what that is?\" After seeing your enthusiastic nod, he continues. \"I'm on a very secret mission that can define the result of the whole war. I really need\nyour help on this, kid\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about the war", "response": "\"We have always supported our valiant troops against the vile Martian menace!\" you say, trying to remember how the man in the radio always said it. \"Listen, kid. It's a great universe out there, full of all kinds of wonders, and we are just shooting at each other? Where's the sense in that?\" the rocket man says, looking at you sternly. You\nreally don't know what to say to that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about Earth", "response": "\"Earth rocket men are really kicking the butts up there in space, aren't they!\" you say feeling proud to be in the presence of one them. \"Yeeah, it's quite a scrap up there\" the rocket man says.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The eastern end of the upstairs hallway is almost completely dark. To the north is the door to your room, and the hallway to the west leads to your parents' bedroom and the radio room. You can hear your father snoring even here. The main staircase winds down to the front hall,\nand the narrow attic staircase leads up.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You look at the stairs for a moment, but it's dark downstairs⦠and\nthe\nrocket man is waiting for you in the attic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The attic is a cluttered, low space with a slanted roof. It's a scary place with dark nooks and crannies, piles of boxes and all kinds of weird junk. The only light is a lone bulb that has gone dim and yellow with age.\n\nThe rocket man is sitting up in the end of the attic, leaning against the wall. The rocket man has peeled off the top part of his suit and his shirt, revealing his upper body. He's really pale and also lean, like a gymnast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about the boat", "response": "\"That boat sounds just like what I need. Thanks kid!\" the rocket man says grinning at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the mission", "response": "\"Why do you need to go to Astro City one?\" you ask the rocket man. \"I told you, to deliver these documents.\"\n\n\"Okay, that's it.\" the rocket man says and closes the suitcase with a snap. He gets up, grunting and pressing his hand against his side. You watch as he pulls on his undershirt, which is some kind of thermal space material, and zips up his space suit.\n\nGetting out of the house is nerve wracking, especially in the attic stairs where the clumsy space suit makes all kinds of noise. Luckily your father's snoring covers it all up.\n\nNot even Gogol launches into a barking attack when you go outside.\n\nThe Moon is bright and the sea is calm. The old boat glides to the water, and the rocket man starts to row, so clumsily that you just\nhave to laugh. He waves at you when he clears the wavebreak, and you sit on the concrete ledge to watch him go - and for a small eternity until his boat has vanished into the glitter of the moonlight on the sea, towards the brightly lit spires of Astro City One in the\nmainland.\n\nMuch later, when you are already shivering with cold and almost in tears because the feeling of loss, you start to make your way toward the house. It's slow going in the dark - and you're almost to the\nhouse when the impossibly bright flash and the sound of tearing metal in the distance wash over you.\n\nEven now, forty years later, you can remember that moment; the instant when you stopped being a child and ended up being an adult with a horrible burden to bear. When Astro City One went up, it started as a couple of bright flashes. The bangs reached you several seconds later, right before the blinding flash that sent pieces of fuel filled\nrockets and containers arcing through the sky in fiery fireballs. The blastwave of the explosion swept over the sea so fast it was almost\ntoo quick to see, and the bang almost struck the air out of your lungs and made your ears go beep.\n\nYou still remember the moment when you realized that Martians weren't tentacled monsters: they were human beings just like you and your parents. Humans, who just wanted to live free. That's what they got, thanks to one stupid kid. The loss of Astro City one was a huge blow\nto the Earth Alliance, and it turned the tide of the war. In three months there was a peace treaty, and Mars had seceded, leaving Earth with the burden of reparations for the long years of interplanetary war.\n\nAll because of one stupid little kid, who wanted to become a rocket man.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Mythological" ]

[ "adverbs", "cover art", "dance", "dancing", "experimental", "fantasy", "female protagonist", "Historical", "I7 source available", "Inform 7", "limited verbs", "Mythology", "Penultimate not numbered Speed IF", "poetry", "Source Code", "Third person" ]

[ 2, 8, 4, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It is always twilight in Ingelheim,\nin the forest the lady slides across\nthe crumpled leaves entranced by Elbegast.\nHer nightclothes sweep the same old lemniscate,\nwith Elbegast's wood gauntlets at her waist.\nTired eyes gaze listlessly, with lips shut tight.\nThe lady longs to end the dance but she\ncannot. The only thing she does is dance\nand dance and dance. But oh how she can dance!\nGracefully and sweetly; solemnly or\nperkily; eagerly, or most often,\nreluctantly. However she dances,\nshe always dances inevitably.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Jauntily", "response": "One two three steps, beneath the willow tree.\nRight foot forward, eyes staring straight through him.\n\nThe lady dances many other ways.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Gracefully", "response": "A swan is just a swan, an angry bird.\nThe moon is just the moon, a glowing rock.\nBut the lady is a graceful swan and\nwhen dancing she becomes his moon and stars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Coyly", "response": "The lady dances many other ways.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Reluctantly", "response": "The black knight clasps the lady tighter still.\n\"Sweet,\" he whispers, \"did I not win you fair?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fairly", "response": "\"Well, you are just my wife,\" says Elbegast.\n\"You're just my partner, sharing life and death.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Angrily", "response": "With vicious strides the lady looks around,\nand hopes to find, observe, the means to kill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Badly", "response": "\"Is this how you once danced with Eggerich?\"\nsays Elbegast a tad resentfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Resentfully", "response": "across the leaves that lie beneath their treading feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Energetically", "response": "Four five six steps along the trickling stream.\nHer spine aligned: left turn, right turn, now twist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Gracefully", "response": "Although he is afixed by beauty clearly,\nhe could not love a mortal woman, could he?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lovingly", "response": "Was Eggerich a violent plotting man?\nShould now the lady thank Elbegast?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Gratefully", "response": "The lady holds her brand new husband dear,\nalthough his hands once slew a man she'd loved.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pointedly", "response": "that shines out even Elbegast himself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Well", "response": "The lady always dances well, except\nwhen she's attempting sprightly twisting turns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sprightly", "response": "Quite gaily she forgets her Eggermond!\nThis brand new man in hand: she eggs him on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Slowly", "response": "a man she's meant to love, does reason fill\nher sleepy head or has she met defeat?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleepily", "response": "Is she sleepwalking in her waking life?\nOr twilight dreaming in her sleeping time?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Defeatedly", "response": "The lady lets herself be led across,\n\n\"Finally love, are you acquiescent?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Acquiescently", "response": "Her shoulders slump. Does she accept defeat?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Observantly", "response": "the mismatched partners shuffle slowly past.\nA vicious branch oft points towards the back\nof Elbegast who tugs his newly wed.\nA newly wed who's stronger than she looks...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Strongly", "response": "The time has come the noble lady thinks,\nto end for good this horrifying dance.\nThey dance a final lemniscate across\nthe twilight forest floor of Ingelheim.\nShe dances \"til his back is to the spike\nwith strength so hideous she shoves him hard!\nHe cries a tear, the spike ripping a tear\nthrough now bloodstained gut besmirched evening wear.\nHer second husband dead before her hands,\nthe sun now rises first on Ingelheim.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "It is always twilight in Ingelheim,\nin the forest the lady slides across\nthe crumpled leaves entranced by Elbegast.\nHer nightclothes sweep the same old lemniscate,\nwith Elbegast's wood gauntlets at her waist.\nTired eyes gaze listlessly, with lips shut tight.\nThe lady longs to end the dance but she\ncannot. The only thing she does is dance\nand dance and dance. But oh how she can dance!\nGracefully and sweetly; solemnly or\nperkily; eagerly, or most often,\nreluctantly. However she dances,\nshe always dances inevitably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inevitably", "response": "The lady lets herself be led across,\n\n\"Finally love, are you acquiescent?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Defeatedly", "response": "that Elbegast knows her to be his wife.\n\"A fitting prize you were from Charlemagne,\"\nhe says and smiles as she forgets the name\nand face of Eggerich von Eggermond.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Humor" ]

[ "based on songs", "Blue", "one move", "short", "They Might Be Giants", "Things", "Things Which Are Also Blue" ]

[ 0, 5, 3, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "The footsteps behind you seem to be getting louder, closer, as you run. You're reaching the end of your breath, legs burning with the effort. You don't know if you should keep running or stop, wait here or even turn around and fight.\n\nlife.\n\nfingertips: what's that blue thing doing here\n\nThe road rolls on in front of you. To the north the road continues, to the east, a set of stairs descends and there is a doorway to the west. Make your move wisely, you only get one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying nothing but your ideas of linear storytelling, which you drop immediately. Also this blue thing. What's it doing here?\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the blue thing", "response": "It tastes remarkably blue.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blue thing", "response": "What's that blue thing doing here?\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear blue", "response": "(first taking the blue thing)\nWhat's that blue thing doing here?\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "You are in a twisty maze of passages, all alike. It is dark, and you are likely to be eaten by a blue thing\n\nOk, you're not, but what did you expect?\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the blue", "response": "The blue thing is already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You keep running, it feel like you've hit some sort of wall, and the footsteps behind you are getting closer. But then you see it, the finish line, a bright blue banner just ahead. You put on a burst of speed, ignoring the screaming of your legs, the pain in your lungs and make it. A split second later, the owner of the footsteps that dogged yours for the last half mile crosses the line behind you. Although second place is not so shabby, she looks glum and you feel embarassed and a little guilty.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You try the doorknob on the roughly painted door and find it locked. In panic, you shove it hard and the lock releases, the door squealing open to reveal a darkened hallway. You slam the door shut again and listen, pressing your ear to the wood as the pounding footsteps go by. You breathe a sigh of relief and look in the bag you've been clutching, all the way from the jewelry store. In the dim light of an emergency exit electric bulb, it's hard to see what's in there, but it doesn't look, or feel right. You pull out a strand of what you thought were pearls but to your fingers, they're clearly made of plastic. What were supposed to be gold chains are suspiciously light. And something in the bag is blinking a tiny blue light. You realize it's some sort of tracker when you hear the footsteps return.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You cascade down the stairs, praying not to slip on the steps, wet from last night's rain, hoping there's someone staffing the subway entrance. A quick look over your shoulder shows that the man who's been chasing you since you left work is still behind you, but the look costs you seconds as you have to grab for the handrail to keep from falling. He calls out to you: \"Miss? Miss! You dropped your bag!\"\n\nYou stand there panting, wairly looking at the stranger as he holds a bag out to you. Indeed, it looks like your purse and, now standing still for the moment, you notice you're not carrying yours anymore. Gratefully, you reach out for it.\n\n\"Thank you,\" you say and take it. The man nods and jogs back up the stairs out of sight. The bag is strangely heavy. You reach inside and find a gun, which gleams bluely in the harsh fluorescents of the subway station.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Saying \"enough is enough\" to yourself, you turn and face the crowd of people, including your maid of honor and the man you had promised to marry, trailing behind you as you fled the church in your shiny silver heels and long white dress.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" you say to them all, \"I can't go through with it.\" Tears are flowing down your cheeks as you give back the ring to your intended groom, and take off the earrings belonging to your no-longer-to-be-mother-in-law, handing them to the maid of honor, who stands gaping.\n\n\"Here's the something borrowed, you can see they get back to her.\"\n\nYou take off your garter, practically groping your own leg in the process of worrying it off down your knee and past your shoe and throw it at her. \"I'm sure you'll be very happy,\" you scream, as the blue ribbon of cloth hits her hair and bounces to the ground.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "You take off through the fields, zigzagging to avoid the occasional arrow what's left of the army manages to get off in your general direction. Maybe you shouldn't have insulted thier leader, wasn't that like one of the first things they taught you in time travel school?\n\nNo, that was \"get to the damn transfer point before the portal closes.\"\n\nYou see the glimmer of the portal in front of you and dive toward it, feeling a sharp pain in your side as you fall through. Landing hard on the retrieval platform increases the pain a hundredfold and you look down to see your blood pouring out over the shaft of a slim blue arrow.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "You think you're finally going fast enough. You spread your wings and *WHOOSH*, the sound is nearly deafening, but you can feel your feet leaving the ground, dangling beneath you, before you remember to tuck them like you'd practiced and flap, flap, flap.\n\nYou look down, and the crowd below has stopped running and all are staring up at you, waving the pitchforks and torches they were carrying to run you and your experiments out of town. They are starting to look as small and insigificant as they are. Ahead of you is only blue sky.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "You burst out into song, belting out \"I'm your only friend, I'm not your only friend, but I'm a little glowing friend, but really I'm not actually your friend.\"\n\nWhen you get to the chorus, the group of people behind you join in at the harmony.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake up", "response": "Ok, honestly, you're really sitting in front of a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone playing a text adventure loosely inspired by the songs of They Might be Giants. Better?\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The complicated shadows of the taller buildings in this part of town give you hope and an idea. You double back, using a broken lamppost as an anchor to quickly change direction and loop around the building, sneaking around the side and emerging from behind the crowd as they pass, running as if to keep up with the stragglers in the crowd of cops and city folk that were chasing you after your latest exploits had come to light. In the dark nobody notices, not even the people you're running head to head with, you're dressed alike in the the same kind of raggedy clothing. As the crowd begins to disperse, making noises of frustration, you duck down a side street and head for one of your safehouses, to live to taunt the regime yet again. In the gutter you see a blue kazoo, which gives you an excellent idea.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "You hit pause and the game stops; you realize you've been playing for hours, so absorbed your heart really is pounding like you're being chased and your mouth is cottony-dry. You stumble off to the kitchen and grab some gatorade, your least favorite flavor -- blue.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You pray. Blue bolts from heaven strike down your enemies. Wow! Should have tried that earlier.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "You are in a twisty maze of passages, all alike. It is dark, and you are likely to be eaten by a blue thing\n\nOk, you're not, but what did you expect?\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the blue", "response": "I don't understand you. Perhaps you'd like to play \"fingertips: I don't understand you\" instead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "At the cue, synchronized watches quietly beeping, you and the rest of your flash mob break into a well-rehearsed dance routine, waving blue scarves around your heads as you stomp and whirl to the Bollywood-style music blaring from synchronized iPhones. You can't wait to see this on YouTube!\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat", "response": "What do you want to eat?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Curse", "response": "You curse a blue streak. It makes you feel better and you speed up, your pursuers falling behind. Words are powerful!\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You think you're finally going fast enough. You spread your wings and *WHOOSH*, the sound is nearly deafening, but you can feel your feet leaving the ground, dangling beneath you, before you remember to tuck them like you'd practiced and flap, flap, flap.\n\nYou look down, and the crowd below has stopped running and all are staring up at you, waving the pitchforks and torches they were carrying to run you and your experiments out of town. They are starting to look as small and insigificant as they are. Ahead of you is only blue sky.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You wake up with a start, covered in sweat.\n\nDamn you hate these being-chased-in-the-dark can't-move-in-molasses don't-know-why-you're-running dreams. Also, you need to pee, bad. Maybe next time you'll skip the jalapeno, garlic and feta toppings on your pizza. You're thankful for your blue canary night light to keep you company at times like these.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell blue", "response": "Mostly you smell your own sweat, you've been running so long.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You hear the noise of the crowd as they jeer at you, calling you names like \"Smurf\" and \"little blue riding hood\" and \"meanie\". It's not fair! It's not your fault you fell in the vat of dye just before your coming out party. You're so embarrassed, you're never coming back to town again.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear blue thing", "response": "(first taking the blue thing)\nWhat's that blue thing doing here?\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss blue thing", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave", "response": "You wave, feeling foolish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bother", "response": "Quite.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the blue thing", "response": "Nothing is on sale.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the blue", "response": "The blue thing is already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "As you run, you're doing as complex of math calculations in your head as you can, it's the only way you can keep the telepaths behind you from knowing which direction you're planning to run.\n\nEach step takes you in a completely new direction. Here's another\ngo at a fresh world.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Children's" ]

[ "built-in hints", "child", "collaboration", "gender-neutral protagonist", "house setting", "IFBeginnersComp", "Interactive Short Fiction Competition", "kid-friendly", "magic", "magic-object", "recommended for beginners", "Skateboard", "TADS", "TADS 3", "TADS3 source available", "witch" ]

[ 3, 20, 12, 1, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Walking home from school is mostly okay, except for one big problem: Every day you have to pass right by Mrs. Pepper's house. She may not actually be a witch, but she sure acts like one. She's ugly and crabby, and she seems to go out of her way to cause trouble for you. The time she came at you with the garden rake, swinging it like it was a giant claw ... you still shudder when you think of it.\n\nLast Friday was a new low. You would never, ever skateboard in her driveway -- that would be practically suicidal. But somehow when you got to the driveway your skateboard swerved, all by itself, as if somebody had put a spell on it. And then you fell off.\n\nWhile you were picking grit out of the ugly scrape on your skinned elbow, Mrs. Pepper appeared out of nowhere and snatched up your skateboard! She screeched something about rowdy children, trespassing, and needing to be taught a lesson. She swung the skateboard at you like it was a bat, and then ran off with it, cackling. Afterward you rang her doorbell for what seemed like an hour, begging her to give the skateboard back, and she wouldn't even come to the door.\n\nAnd now it's Monday afternoon, and here you are, on your way home from school as usual (but with no skateboard). Just up ahead is Mrs. Pepper's driveway....\n\nMrs. Pepper's Nasty Secret\n\nThis stretch of sidewalk runs more or less east-west between the busy street to the south and a tall, water-stained fence to the north.\nJust a few yards further west the fence ends where Mrs. Pepper's driveway thrusts into the roadway. Unfortunately there's no option but to cross that driveway if you want to get home.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are empty-handed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "The word \"pray\" is not necessary in this story.\n\n(If this was an accidental misspelling, you can correct it by typing OOPS followed by the corrected word now. Any time the story points out an unknown word, you can correct a misspelling using OOPS as your next command.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump up and down a few times. It doesn't achieve anything, but the exercise can't have done you any harm.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This stretch of sidewalk runs more or less east-west between the busy street to the south and a tall, water-stained fence to the north.\nJust a few yards further west the fence ends where Mrs. Pepper's driveway thrusts into the roadway. Unfortunately there's no option but to cross that driveway if you want to get home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the fence", "response": "On any other day, you might consider it. Today you have more important things on your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine fence", "response": "The fence is tall, and made of solid vertical boards. Once they were painted white, but by now they're gray and a bit water-stained.\n\nYou don't seem to be making much progress. If you feel you could use a little help, enter the command HELP.\n\nBonus Tip: To move around the map use compass directions: NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST, NORTHEAST etc. (which can be abbreviated to N, S, E, W, NE etc.), or UP, DOWN, IN or OUT. Try going WEST now.\n\n[To turn these bonus tips off, use the command EXTRA OFF]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Extra off", "response": "Okay; extra hints are now off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "There's too much traffic for you to consider crossing the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You step gingerly off the sidewalk into the mouth of Mrs. Pepper's driveway. There's no way of avoiding it, but that doesn't make it any less hazardous. More than once the nasty old woman has backed her car out quite rapidly just as you were crossing, as if bent on running you over, so this step across Mrs. Pepper's driveway is the part of your daily walk home that you've most come to dread....\n\nBut today you're in luck. Her car isn't moving, and she's not in it.\n\nYou're at the outer end of Mrs. Pepper's driveway, which extends to the north alongside her house. Her old gray car is parked beside the house, and before the house is a square of sadly neglected lawn. The sidewalk runs east and west from here, and the street is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the car", "response": "The car is an Oldsmobile, a boxy model that's at least 20 years old. It's slate-gray, and the rear fender droops at one side, as if perhaps Mrs. Pepper has succeeded in hitting something -- or someone -- with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lawn", "response": "The lawn is patchy and mostly dead, mottled with patches of bare dirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the car", "response": "The car is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the driveway", "response": "(the driveway)\nThe driveway runs northward along the right side of Mrs. Pepper's house. Standing in the drive next to the house is Mrs. Pepper's old gray car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the north, across a sadly dried-up and decrepit yard, stands Mrs. Pepper's house. You can also go east or west along the sidewalk. The busy street is to the south. A telephone pole plastered with the scraps of old posters stands here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the posters", "response": "Many are faded, many are torn, and many are both. The ones that remain legible advertise everything from last year's flower show to the merits of the Independent Candidate in some long-forgotten election. Amongst this mass of posters well past their read-by date is an advertising flyer that looks crisp and new.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the advertising flyer", "response": "The flyer is crisp, new, and colorful. In big bright letters it advertises a special sale at Flogg & Grabby's Stufftown, a shopping mall that lies just half a mile down the road. If the flyer is to be believed, the sale ends this very afternoon. \"INCREDIBLY LOW PRICES ON GORGEOUS LADIES' WIGS!!!\" it promises.\n\nMrs. Pepper is not your idea of a gorgeous lady (if anything, just the opposite). But she certainly is fond of wigs. Every time you see her, it seems, her wig is a different color and style, each more outlandish and ill-fitting than the last. What they all have in common is that they look as if she bought them in a thrift shop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flyer", "response": "You pick up the advertising flyer.\n\n(If you'd prefer not to be notified about score changes in the future, type NOTIFY OFF.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the house", "response": "Mrs. Pepper's house is two stories tall, and narrow. It hasn't been painted in a long time. A small covered porch is attached to the front, and the driveway runs along the right side. A short flight of steps leads up from the yard to the porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the outer end of Mrs. Pepper's driveway, which extends to the north alongside her house. Her old gray car is parked beside the house, and before the house is a square of sadly neglected lawn. The sidewalk runs east and west from here, and the street is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You take a cautious step onto Mrs. Pepper's property. When nothing terrible happens, you take another, your curiosity overcoming your apprehension of the batty old woman.\n\nThe driveway continues northward along the side of the house, where an old gray car is parked, and leads south out to sidewalk and beyond it the street. On the east the driveway is bordered by a high fence, and Mrs. Pepper's front yard lies to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open car", "response": "The car is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Mrs. Pepper's house lies directly to the west; the drive continues to the south, and a gravel path leads around the house to the northwest. Standing directly to the north is a detached garage.\n\nA trash can is standing in the driveway.\n\nA battered old car is parked in the drive, just under an open window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine can", "response": "The old, dented trash can is made of gray metal, and has a sturdy lid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open can", "response": "You remove the lid from the trash can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the can", "response": "The old, dented trash can is made of gray metal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the car", "response": "There's nothing in the trash can.\n\nYou can't; it's locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pick up can", "response": "You pick up the trash can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the trash", "response": "You set down the trash can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the trashcan", "response": "Tossing yourself into the wastebin at such a young age? You contemplate the idea for a moment, and reject it with a shudder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the car", "response": "You rattle the car's door handle, but the door is securely locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smash window", "response": "Painful experience has taught you that breaking things quite often gets you into trouble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The window is standing open, and doesn't appear to have a screen.\nIt's six or seven feet up the wall from the paved surface of the driveway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "That is not something you can climb.\n\nYou jump off the car and land back on the ground.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "(off of the car)\nOkay, you're no longer on the car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lid", "response": "You are already carrying the trash can lid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close can", "response": "You put the lid back on the trash can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "(first trying to open the garage door)\nIt seems to have been shut for so long that the most recent layer of paint has sealed it up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "It seems to have been shut for so long that the most recent layer of paint has sealed it up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The driveway continues northward along the side of the house, where an old gray car is parked, and leads south out to sidewalk and beyond it the street. On the east the driveway is bordered by a high fence, and Mrs. Pepper's front yard lies to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The front yard is mostly bare dirt and burned-out brown lawn, except for a few hardy weeds. A paved walkway crosses it, leading from the sidewalk on the south up to the front porch on the north. The driveway runs past the yard on the east side, and a tall fence guards what must be the neighbors' yard on the west. Growing next to the walkway is a scraggly, half-dead tree.\n\nAs you're crossing the front yard, a momentary lull in the traffic noise allows you to hear something very odd. Weakly, somewhere in the near distance, a voice is crying, \"Help me! Oh, please, help me!\" The voice is high-pitched and very hoarse, as if whoever is calling for help can barely speak at all.\n\nYou stop dead in your tracks, looking around to see where the voice might be coming from. It seems to be coming from the upstairs window in Mrs. Pepper's house. You stare hard at the window, and for a moment it seems something might be moving there -- but you can't make out what it might be. After a moment the movement stops, and the voice falls silent.\n\nCould it have been your imagination? No, you're certain you heard something. And it was coming from inside the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The front door lies immediately to the north; the front yard is to the south. There's a doorbell button just by the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying an advertising flyer and a trash can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop can", "response": "You set down the trash can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the can", "response": "You pick up the trash can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The front yard is mostly bare dirt and burned-out brown lawn, except for a few hardy weeds. A paved walkway crosses it, leading from the sidewalk on the south up to the front porch on the north. The driveway runs past the yard on the east side, and a tall fence guards what must be the neighbors' yard on the west. Growing next to the walkway is a scraggly, half-dead tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The driveway continues northward along the side of the house, where an old gray car is parked, and leads south out to sidewalk and beyond it the street. On the east the driveway is bordered by a high fence, and Mrs. Pepper's front yard lies to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Mrs. Pepper's house lies directly to the west; the drive continues to the south, and a gravel path leads around the house to the northwest. Standing directly to the north is a detached garage.\n\nA battered old car is parked in the drive, just under an open window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Precious time slips by, never to be recovered.\n\nAfter a somewhat longer delay than the first time, the door flies open. Mrs. Pepper snarls at you. \"Why are you bothering me? Do you want me to call the police?\" The door slams again, leaving you on the outside and Mrs. Pepper on the inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The front yard is mostly bare dirt and burned-out brown lawn, except for a few hardy weeds. A paved walkway crosses it, leading from the sidewalk on the south up to the front porch on the north. The driveway runs past the yard on the east side, and a tall fence guards what must be the neighbors' yard on the west. Growing next to the walkway is a scraggly, half-dead tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Mrs. Pepper's house lies directly to the west; the drive continues to the south, and a gravel path leads around the house to the northwest. Standing directly to the north is a detached garage.\n\nA battered old car is parked in the drive, just under an open window.\n\nYou see a trash can here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The back yard is in a dreadful state. Except for a few sorry weeds, nothing grows here. Someone has dug holes of various sizes, leaving mounds of dirt and gravel everywhere. A concrete birdbath stands in the center of the yard. The back porch of the house lies directly to the south.\n\nThe driveway is off to the southeast, past the corner of the garage. The garage itself stands directly to the east.\n\nA neighbor is working in the garden next door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the birdbath", "response": "The gray concrete birdbath is thick and ugly, and looks as if it hasn't held water for a long time. The bottom of the basin is coated with a thin layer of grime.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the neighbor", "response": "She's tall and thin, and is wearing a big floppy hat of straw. She has rather a kindly look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the holes", "response": "Holes of various sizes have been dug across the lawn, seemingly at random, as if some demented fortune-seeker were desperately seeking buried treasure. The more prosaic explanation, given the state of the back yard, is that the holes are due to energetic but incompetent gardening efforts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the porch", "response": "The back porch is a plain wooden structure, with no railing or decoration. It looks as if it was tacked onto the house as an afterthought. It's several feet above the ground, with a ramp leading up to one side. The crawl space beneath it is deep in shadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the neighbour", "response": "\"Hi,\" you say. \"Who are you?\"\n\n\"I'm Mrs. Dogwood, Mrs. Pepper's neighbor,\" she replies.\n\n(You could ask her about Mr. Pepper, gardening, Mrs. Pepper's old car, herself, or Mrs. Pepper. You could also ask or tell her about various other things that might occur to you.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about Pepper", "response": "\"Do you know Mrs. Pepper well?\" you ask.\n\n\"As well as I want to!\" Mrs. Dogwood replies. Lowering her voice, she adds in a near whisper, \"I don't normally go in for tittle-tattle, but she really is the meanest.... Well, I dropped a fine gold brooch one day when I was working near the fence. At least, I don't know where else I could have dropped it. A few minutes later I'm sure I saw her arm snaking right through the fence, down near the ground. By the time I put down my shears and came to take a closer look, she was trotting into the house. I never did find that brooch. I'm sure she took it, but when I asked, quite politely, if she might have seen it or know where it could be, she got all huffy and claimed not to know what I was talking about. Swears she never saw it, she does!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the gardening", "response": "\"I was just admiring your wonderful garden,\" you tell Mrs. Dogwood politely.\n\n\"Why, thank you, dear!\" she replies.\n\n\"It's much nicer than Mrs. Pepper's,\" you add.\n\n\"I don't like to speak ill of anyone,\" Mrs. Dogwood says piously, \"but I think it's fair to say Mrs. Pepper doesn't have a green thumb.\"\n\nA fat toad that you hadn't noticed before hops away under the back porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the toad", "response": "The toad is gone -- it hopped away under the porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the porch", "response": "Deep in the shadows beneath the porch, you spy your skateboard!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the skateboard", "response": "It's clear back against the wall of the house. Even when you stretch your arm as far as you can, the skateboard is still at least three feet out of reach.\n\nMrs. Dogwood returns to her gardening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the car", "response": "You are carrying an advertising flyer.\n\n\"Hello again,\" you say.\n\n\"Hi there, youngster,\" she replies.\n\n\"I saw Mrs. Pepper's old car in her driveway,\" you remark. \"Is it always there?\"\n\n\"If she's home, it is,\" Mrs. Dogwood replies promptly. \"Sometimes in the afternoon she goes out driving, if there's a special sale on at the mall. You know, Flogg & Grabby's, down the road?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the mr pepper", "response": "\"What happened to Mrs. Pepper's husband,\" you ask.\n\n\"Such a tragic accident,\" the neighbor replies. \"If it was an accident. I've always wondered about that. But really, I mustn't gossip.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about herself", "response": "\"You seem to be quite a fine gardener,\" you venture. \"Have you lived in that house for a long time?\"\n\n\"Oh, long enough,\" she replies vaguely. \"I daresay I'm not a very interesting person.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the skateboarding toad", "response": "\"Some other time, perhaps,\" she suggests, with a lopsided smile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the toad", "response": "She bends over a little bush to inspect it, and then straightens up when you start to speak. \"I'm sorry, dear, I didn't quite catch that. I thought I saw an aphid. Horrid things, aphids.\"\n\n\"Do you know anything about frogs and toads?\" you ask Mrs. Dogwood.\n\n\"My goodness, what a question! Not so very much, no. I've noticed a fat old toad hopping about from time to time. I believe he lives under Mrs. Pepper's back porch. If you find him, I do hope you won't catch him in a jar or anything. That would be very cruel.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Mrs. Dogwood returns to her gardening.\n\nMrs. Pepper's house lies directly to the west; the drive continues to the south, and a gravel path leads around the house to the northwest. Standing directly to the north is a detached garage.\n\nA battered old car is parked in the drive, just under an open window.\n\nYou see a trash can here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tree", "response": "A few green leaves cling to the crooked branches of the tree, but really it looks more dead than alive. Mrs. Pepper calls it her orange tree -- in fact, one of your more memorable run-ins with her occurred when she accused you of stealing oranges from the tree. But in truth you've never seen an orange growing on the tree. The idea that it's an orange tree is purely a theory, as far as you're concerned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take branch", "response": "As sickly as the orange tree looks, its branches are still firmly attached to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break branch", "response": "Painful experience has taught you that breaking things quite often gets you into trouble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "The tree is too spindly to support your weight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine flyer", "response": "The flyer is crisp, new, and colorful. In big bright letters it advertises a special sale at Flogg & Grabby's Stufftown, a shopping mall that lies just half a mile down the road. If the flyer is to be believed, the sale ends this very afternoon. \"INCREDIBLY LOW PRICES ON GORGEOUS LADIES' WIGS!!!\" it promises.\n\nMrs. Pepper is not your idea of a gorgeous lady (if anything, just the opposite). But she certainly is fond of wigs. Every time you see her, it seems, her wig is a different color and style, each more outlandish and ill-fitting than the last. What they all have in common is that they look as if she bought them in a thrift shop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "The door is of solid wood, except for a tiny peephole covered with a filigree of wrought iron. It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flyer under door", "response": "The door is tightly fitted to its frame. There's not even a tiny gap at the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the peephole", "response": "The peephole would be used by someone on the inside to see who's at the door. At the moment, it's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the flyer", "response": "You set down the advertising flyer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The front yard is mostly bare dirt and burned-out brown lawn, except for a few hardy weeds. A paved walkway crosses it, leading from the sidewalk on the south up to the front porch on the north. The driveway runs past the yard on the east side, and a tall fence guards what must be the neighbors' yard on the west. Growing next to the walkway is a scraggly, half-dead tree.\n\nAfter a brief pause, the front door opens. Mrs. Pepper ventures out on the porch, looks around to make sure no one is close enough to sneak past her into the house, and then bends to retrieve the flyer. For long seconds, she peers at it closely, holding it in both hands. Maybe it's only your imagination, but it looks as if her hands are actually trembling with desire. Then she turns on her heel and dives back into the house.\n\nA moment later she bursts out again, a large purse over her arm.\nAfter carefully locking the door, she strides off in the direction of the driveway. You hear her car coughing to life, and in a squeal of tires it backs down the driveway, careens into the street, reverses direction, and roars away in a cloud of blue exhaust vapors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The driveway continues northward along the side of the house, and leads south out to sidewalk and beyond it the street. On the east the driveway is bordered by a high fence, and Mrs. Pepper's front yard lies to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Mrs. Pepper's house lies directly to the west; the drive continues to the south, and a gravel path leads around the house to the northwest. Standing directly to the north is a detached garage.\n\nYou see a trash can here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the can", "response": "What do you want to throw it at?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "At the window", "response": "The trash can hits the window without any obvious effect, and falls to the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter window", "response": "You manage to clamber through the window -- but as you do so, you accidentally knock the lid off the can.\n\nYou glance nervously around as your feet land on the floor, but so far as you can tell the house really is empty now -- at least, you can't hear anybody about.\n\nCompared to your parents' kitchen, Mrs. Pepper's seems, well, a bit mean and cramped, just like its owner. Most of the space is taken up by the old wooden table standing right in the middle. Beneath the lip of the table is a wide, shallow drawer. Completing the furnishings are a cupboard, a sink, a stove, and a refrigerator. The back door leads out to the north, while to the south is an open doorway, its door long since removed. The window through which you've just climbed is set in the east wall, and on the opposite side of the room a flight of steps leads down into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the drawer", "response": "It's just a plain wooden drawer. It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Opening the drawer reveals a small flashlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "You can't have that; it's part of the kitchen table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the torch", "response": "You pick up the small flashlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It's a big square wooden table, old and scratched. Beneath one edge is a single drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the table", "response": "The only thing under the table is its drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "Opening the cabinet reveals a glass and a butter knife.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the glass", "response": "It's chipped on one edge. It's currently empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "fridge: You can't take that.\nkitchen table: The kitchen table is too heavy.\nglass: You pick up the glass.\nbutter knife: You pick up the butter knife.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the glass", "response": "(from the faucet)\n(first turning on the faucet, then putting the glass under it)\nYou hold the glass under the faucet until it fills up with water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "Opening the fridge reveals a stale loaf of bread and a large wedge of blue cheese.\n\nThere's an overpowering smell of over-ripe cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cheese", "response": "The cheese is runny in some spots and dried and crusty in other spots, all at the same time. Its odor is remarkable: If it gets much riper, it'll probably come when you call it. Phewww! It smells horrible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cheese and the bread", "response": "large wedge of blue cheese: You'd rather leave it where it is.\nstale loaf of bread: You'd rather not touch it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bread", "response": "It looks like one of your more successful school biology experiments -- the one where you're meant to grow a culture of mold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell the cheese", "response": "Phewww! It smells horrible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stove", "response": "The stove is not as nice as the one your family has, and not as clean either. Bits of this and that have dribbled down the front and dried there. It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "Opened.\n\nThe stove is not as nice as the one your family has, and not as clean either. Bits of this and that have dribbled down the front and dried there. It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "The large porcelain sink is built against the east wall, near the window. A faucet is mounted above the sink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the flashlight", "response": "You thumb the switch, but the flashlight fails to turn on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the flashlight", "response": "Opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flashlight", "response": "The flashlight is slim, and about four inches long. There's a switch on one side, and an opening in the end through which a battery can be inserted. It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This hall is little more than a narrow passage connecting the rooms to north and south. On the east side a flight of stairs leads up to the floor above, and there's an opening to the west, with a black button next to it at waist height.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine button", "response": "It's an ordinary black button, set in a little brass plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This small, square room is furnished in a plain, unattractive style. Opposite the bed stands a dressing table, on which is a row of styrofoam heads. Arranged on the heads are some rather ugly wigs.\nThe way out is to the south, and there's a bathroom to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wigs", "response": "green wig: The green wig is a mass of greasy green ringlets. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: TGPXH XKHHW.\n\nauburn wig: The auburn wig is short and balloon-shaped. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: ZGBH YAHHKHU EHAQTKHX XYHFEH.\n\nblond wig: The hair of the blond wig sticks straight out, as if it's made of clumps of straw. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: XPZZDS FGQS.\n\nblack wig: The black wig is very long, and the curls are tangled. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: ZGOQTGK KDTBQSO.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the wigs", "response": "green wig: You pick up the green wig.\nauburn wig: You pick up the auburn wig.\nblond wig: You pick up the blond wig.\nblack wig: You pick up the black wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "The dressing table is unusually large. A mirror is mounted above it, and a single drawer is tucked away beneath. A row of white styrofoam heads stands on the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Opening the dressing table reveals a brush and a musical score.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the score", "response": "It appears to be the score for an opera called Die Zauberokarina by A.W. Trazom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the brush", "response": "Judging from the multi-colored strands caught in its bristles, Mrs. Pepper uses this cheap black plastic brush on her wigs. There's some kind of emblem on the back of the brush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the emblem", "response": "It's fairly schematic, but it looks like a scarlet fish. Underneath it is some tiny lettering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the lettering", "response": "You can't make it out. It appears to be in Arabic or some other alphabet you have no idea how to read.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "The king-size bed is covered with a brown comforter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the comforter", "response": "It's a brown quilted coverlet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a small flashlight, a glass (full of water), a butter knife, and four wigs (one green, one auburn, one blond, and one black).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The way out is to the west. The normal bathroom stuff is here, including a bath, a washbasin and a toilet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bath", "response": "It's a plain white enamel bath, matching the sink; at least, it was white once, it's now mostly off-white with a number of distinctly brown stains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the basin", "response": "It's just a plain white enamel basin, matching the bath. A faucet is mounted above it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look behind the toilet", "response": "You don't need to use it right now, and you're not so sure of Mrs. Pepper's standards of hygiene that you want to mess with this part of her plumbing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the toilet brush", "response": "You see nothing unusual about it.\n\nYou see no toilet brush here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This small, square room is furnished in a plain, unattractive style. Opposite the bed stands a dressing table, on which is a row of styrofoam heads. The way out is to the south, and there's a bathroom to the east.\n\nThe dressing table contains a brush and a musical score.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the heads", "response": "The four white styrofoam heads stand stiffly on the dressing table. They look rather ominously ghostly, as they have no faces.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get brush", "response": "You pick up the brush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the score", "response": "You pick up the musical score. Moving the musical score reveals an ocarina underneath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ocarina", "response": "You pick up the ocarina.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ocarina", "response": "The plastic ocarina is about the shape and color of a potato. There are a few holes across the top, and a sort of mouthpiece at one side for blowing into.\n\nYou are already carrying the ocarina.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play score", "response": "The score is far too complex for you to cope with -- hemisemidemiquavers by the bushel!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Brush hair", "response": "You give your hair a good brush. Maybe it ends up just a little tidier.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the steel door", "response": "The door has no visible knob or handle. It's recessed slightly in the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "(the bedroom door)\nThe bedroom door won't budge; it resists your attempts to open it with almost supernatural determination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the score", "response": "It appears to be the score for an opera called Die Zauberokarina by A.W. Trazom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play score", "response": "The score is far too complex for you to cope with -- hemisemidemiquavers by the bushel!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the okerina", "response": "(play ocarina)\n\nYou tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. You fancy you detect a momentary shimmering across the surface of the bedroom door, but possibly your eyes are playing tricks on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "(the bedroom door)\nYou think you hear a faint answering croak on the other side of the door, but you can't be quite sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This small, square room is furnished in a plain, unattractive style. Opposite the bed stands a dressing table, on which is a row of styrofoam heads. The way out is to the south, and there's a bathroom to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the mirror", "response": "You look almost exactly the same as the last time you looked in a mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hold the brush", "response": "You are already carrying the brush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the knife", "response": "It's a small knife, made of stainless steel. It looks as if it should cut through butter readily enough, but it probably wouldn't make much of an impression on a rump steak.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead south, back to the landing; and east, to the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is closed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead north, to the kitchen; south; west; and up, back to the landing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The kitchen is small, and equipped with the usual appliances, including a cupboard, a sink, a stove, and a refrigerator, though most of the space is taken up by the unusually bulky wooden table standing in the middle of the room. The back door leads north, while to the south is an open doorway. A flight of stairs on the west side of the room leads down, roughly opposite the window in the east wall.\n\nThe fridge contains a large wedge of blue cheese and a stale loaf of bread.\n\nThere's an overpowering smell of over-ripe cheese.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go down", "response": "You tiptoe down the stairs into the cellar. It certainly is dark down here....\n\nCellar (in pitch darkness)\nYou can't see anything in here, apart from the dim outline of the stairs leading back up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This boxy little room is furnished in a fussy, old-fashioned style. The one modern touch is a wide-screen TV, with a couch facing it. A low coffee table sits in front of the couch, and a fireplace is set in another wall. There's a door to the south, and the open doorway to the hall is on the north.\n\nOn the mantel is a framed photo. On the coffee table are a yellow book and a remote control.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the control", "response": "The remote is studded with buttons, but two of them are especially large and appear well-thumbed. One is red, the other blue. Around the back is a sort of plastic hatch cover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fireplace", "response": "The fireplace has an artificial gas log in it, and a mantel above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at log", "response": "The gas log is gray. Its bark is wrinkled in an unconvincing way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the buttons", "response": "The main buttons of interest are the red button marked ON and the blue button marked CHAN.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "The coffee table is made of dark wood. On the coffee table are a yellow book and a remote control.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "The book is a thick paperback with a yellow cover. It's entitled Spell-Casting for Dummies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take remote", "response": "You pick up the remote control.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the remote", "response": "Opening the remote control reveals an AA battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "(first taking the yellow book)\nAs you open the book, a piece of paper falls out and flutters to the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the battery", "response": "You pick up the AA battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the battery in the flashlight", "response": "You put the battery in the flashlight and close it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the paper", "response": "You pick up the piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "framed photo: You pick up the framed photo.\nwide-screen TV: The wide-screen TV is too heavy.\ncouch: The couch is too heavy.\ncoffee table: The coffee table is too heavy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine couch", "response": "The couch, which is easily long enough for you to lie on, is set facing the wide-screen TV. It's covered in a rather depressing shade of brown leather, which has become more than a little shiny in some places, and scuffed in others.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tv", "response": "It looks like you have to use the remote to do that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the flashlight", "response": "Opening the small flashlight reveals an AA battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close flashlight", "response": "Closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the paper", "response": "You are already carrying the piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paper", "response": "On the piece of paper someone has written, in block capitals with a stubby pencil, the phrase \"THE MIND POWER OF GLAMOROUS HAIR CLUSTERS.\" Below this is another phrase, which oddly enough is total gibberish: \"JAH ZQSU WDYHF DI OKGZDFDPX AGQF TKPXJHFX.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the green wig", "response": "The green wig is a mass of greasy green ringlets. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: TGPXH XKHHW.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a small flashlight (providing light), a glass (full of water), a butter knife, four wigs (one green, one auburn, one blond, and one black), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, and a framed photo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "There's an index at the back of the book, where you might be able to look up specific topics if any interest you. Ignoring the index for the moment, you flip through the book at random, and encounter a recipe for a love potion, the principle ingredients of which seem to be onions and vacuum cleaner lint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up toads", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nThe yellow book doesn't seem to have much to say on that subject -- nothing you can find in the index, at any rate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the index", "response": "There's an index at the back of the book, where you might be able to look up specific topics if any interest you. Ignoring the index for the moment, you flip through the book at random, and encounter a numbingly complex description of Polynesian astrology, complete with pages of smudgy diagrams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up wig", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nYou thumb through the index. There's nothing under \"wigs,\" but purely by chance you spot an entry for \"garments, magical, uses of.\" This section of the book proves to be devoted almost entirely to full-page, exotically lighted photos of pointed black hats with wide brims -- but a short paragraph reveals that the working of a spell usually requires both the wearing of a magically enhanced garment and the performance of some other action, such as shooting off firecrackers or plucking the feathers from a recently deceased chicken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the sleep", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nYou thumb through the index and find a listing for \"sleep, inducing.\" On the indicated page, the book explains that to put someone to sleep, you need to be wearing a magically prepared garment or head-covering and chant a brief incantation while wielding the Sign of the Scarlet Fish. Unfortunately, the incantation is written in an alphabet you've never seen before, although it may be in the same script as the writing on the hairbrush. It looks rather like Arabic, but with a lot more squiggles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up wheeled vehicles", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nYou thumb through the index and after hunting for a bit, find a listing for \"vehicles, wheeled, causing to swerve.\" The indicated page seems to have been torn out, however.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up rain", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nYou thumb through the index and find a listing for \"rain, summoning.\" On that page, the book explains that rain can be induced to fall by wearing a garment or head-covering imbued with the proper power while pouring water on the ground and holding a bamboo stick. The spell for adding this power to an ordinary garment is quite intimidatingly complex, sad to say, and requires several ingredients that you not only don't have but have never even heard of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up locking", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nYou thumb through the index and find a listing for \"locks, magical.\" On that page is printed the following verse:\n\nTo free the lock that I was glad\nTo conjure up when rightly clad.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the blond wig", "response": "The hair of the blond wig sticks straight out, as if it's made of clumps of straw. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: XPZZDS FGQS.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a small flashlight (providing light), a glass (full of water), a butter knife, four wigs (one green, one auburn, one blond, and one black), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, and a framed photo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the auburn wig", "response": "The auburn wig is short and balloon-shaped. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: ZGBH YAHHKHU EHAQTKHX XYHFEH.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the green", "response": "The green wig is a mass of greasy green ringlets. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: TGPXH XKHHW.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine black", "response": "The black wig is very long, and the curls are tangled. Attached to the elastic band at the back is a little hand-lettered cardboard tag, which reads: ZGOQTGK KDTBQSO.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play score", "response": "The score is far too complex for you to cope with -- hemisemidemiquavers by the bushel!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play ocarina", "response": "You tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The front door vibrates for a moment in a dull, heavy way, as if it's becoming darker and more massive.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead north, to the kitchen; south, back to the sitting room; west; and up, to the landing.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "The cellar is dim and dismal. A flight of stairs leads up. Near the foot of the stairs a slim chain dangles from the ceiling. Off to one side squats a heavy piece of machinery, and a plank shelf has been built into the opposite wall.\n\nA battered old wheelchair slumps in one corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the chain", "response": "You pull the chain, and the cellar is illuminated by a bare lightbulb mounted on a rafter at the upper end of the chain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chari", "response": "(x chair)\n\nIt may still be functional, but it has clearly seen better days, and has hardly been treated with tender loving care. Part of the fabric is torn, and several spots of rust are appearing, not least on the brake lever.\n\nYou recall your mother telling you how poor Mr. Pepper was found dead at the foot of the cellar stairs following a tragic accident involving his wheelchair. After your various encounters with his widow, you find yourself wondering just how accidental his accident actually was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chair", "response": "It may still be functional, but it has clearly seen better days, and has hardly been treated with tender loving care. Part of the fabric is torn, and several spots of rust are appearing, not least on the brake lever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lever", "response": "It's just a short lever with a worn rubber grip at the end. The exposed metal part is beginning to look a bit rusty. Apparently the brake is on. It looks as if something may be jamming the lever from underneath, but you can't quite see what's back there without looking behind the lever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look behind the lever", "response": "Behind the brake lever is a bunch of keys. It looks like they must have fallen there from the owner's pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the keys", "response": "The keys seem to be stuck behind the lever; you'll need something to move them with, something thin enough to fit behind the lever but sturdy enough to dislodge the keys.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the keys with the knife", "response": "You poke the knife behind the brake lever, and manage to dislodge the bunch of keys, which promptly falls onto the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the keys", "response": "(first standing up)\nYou pick up the bunch of keys.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelf", "response": "The shelf is built high against one wall. On the shelf is a glass jar (which contains a small metallic object).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jar", "response": "The glass jar seems to have been used at one time to hold paint. The interior surface is splattered with flecks of white, and a few dribbles have flowed down the outside and dried. The jar is quite dusty on the outside. It contains a small metallic object.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get jar", "response": "(first getting off of the wheelchair)\nYou can't reach the glass jar because the shelf is too high.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "You pull the brake lever to its stop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the brake", "response": "(from the wheelchair)\nYou can't have that; it's part of the wheelchair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "The innards of the machine are concealed by a metal housing. On one side is a large vertically mounted wheel, around both sides of which a sturdy cable runs up through the ceiling. Not far from the cable a black-coated wire dangles down from the ceiling. The lower end of the wire swings free not far from a screw that protrudes from the top of the machine. Mounted in the north wall just behind the machine is a small metal door.\n\nYou pull the brake lever to its stop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the wheelchair", "response": "The wheelchair starts to roll away as soon as you try to stand on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the jar", "response": "You pick up the glass jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine JR", "response": "(x jar)\n\nThe glass jar seems to have been used at one time to hold paint. The interior surface is splattered with flecks of white, and a few dribbles have flowed down the outside and dried. The jar is quite dusty on the outside. It contains a small metallic object.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the jar", "response": "The lid seems to be stuck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open lid with the knife", "response": "The jar's lid proves too stubborn for that to work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the jar", "response": "You are already carrying the glass jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop jar", "response": "Saved.\n\nThe jar plummets to the floor and breaks.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Cellar (standing on the wheelchair)\nThe cellar is dim and dismal. A flight of stairs leads up. Near the foot of the stairs a slim chain dangles from the ceiling. Off to one side squats a heavy piece of machinery, and a plank shelf has been built into the opposite wall.\n\nThe old wheelchair is resting just by the shelf.\n\nYou see a glass jar (broken) (which contains a small metallic object) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the jar", "response": "(first getting off of the wheelchair)\nYou pick up the glass jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the object", "response": "You pick up the small metallic object.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine object", "response": "It's an antique gold brooch, roughly round and about an inch and a half in diameter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "The innards of the machine are concealed by a metal housing. On one side is a large vertically mounted wheel, around both sides of which a sturdy cable runs up through the ceiling. Not far from the cable a black-coated wire dangles down from the ceiling. The lower end of the wire swings free not far from a screw that protrudes from the top of the machine. Mounted in the north wall just behind the machine is a small metal door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It's a small, gray, metal door set into the north wall. A thick cable runs up from the door to the ceiling. It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Opening the metal door reveals a small box containing a large red switch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the wire", "response": "Touching the wire gives you a severe shock, so you let go of it at once.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit switch", "response": "Which switch do you mean, the large red switch, or the small flashlight?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Red switch", "response": "(the large red switch)\nYou cannot attack that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the red", "response": "Which red do you mean, the red button, or the large red switch?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the wire", "response": "You grip the end of the wire between two fingers and give it a little tug. It seems to be securely attached to something up in the ceiling, but this end is dangling loose -- not the usual situation, with electrical wires.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the screw", "response": "The screw protrudes from the top plate of the machine housing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn wheel", "response": "It proves to be too stiff to turn by hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Screw", "response": "What do you want to screw?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the red button", "response": "The red button says \"ON\" in large square letters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "Please select a file in which to save the current position >\nSaved.\n\nYou are carrying a small flashlight, a glass (full of water), a butter knife, three wigs (one green, one auburn, and one blond), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, a framed photo, a bunch of keys, a glass jar (broken), and a gold brooch. You're wearing a black wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The kitchen is small, and equipped with the usual appliances, including a cupboard, a sink, a stove, and a refrigerator, though most of the space is taken up by the unusually bulky wooden table standing in the middle of the room. The back door leads north, while to the south is an open doorway. A flight of stairs on the west side of the room leads down, roughly opposite the window in the east wall.\n\nThe fridge contains a large wedge of blue cheese and a stale loaf of bread.\n\nThere's an overpowering smell of over-ripe cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "(first unlocking the back door, then opening it)\n\nThe back porch is a plain wooden structure, with no railing or decoration. It looks as if it was tacked onto the house as an afterthought. It's several feet above the ground, with a ramp leading up to one side. The back door leading into the house is just to the south.\n\nMrs. Dogwood is working in the garden next door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ramp", "response": "The ramp ascends smoothly from the ground to the porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the brooch to Dogwood", "response": "Mrs. Dogwood doesn't appear to hear you. Perhaps if you were closer to her....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The back yard is in a dreadful state. Except for a few sorry weeds, nothing grows here. Someone has dug holes of various sizes, leaving mounds of dirt and gravel everywhere. A concrete birdbath stands in the center of the yard. The back porch of the house lies directly to the south.\n\nThe driveway is off to the southeast, past the corner of the garage. The garage itself stands directly to the east.\n\nMrs. Dogwood is working in the garden next door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the brooch to Dogwood", "response": "\"Hello again,\" you say.\n\n\"Hi there, youngster,\" she replies.\n\n\"Do you recognize this brooch, by any chance, Mrs. Dogwood?\" you ask.\n\n\"Yes! That's it! It's mine! I thought it was gone forever. Thank you so much for finding it for me.\" She takes the brooch and pins it to her jacket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the ocarina", "response": "\"My, but you're inquisitive!\" she exclaims. \"Just a regular little chatterbox.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dogwood about the spells", "response": "\"You don't believe in magic, do you?\" you ask.\n\nShe titters. \"Magic? You mean like spells and witchcraft and such muck? Certainly not! I'm a sensible modern woman. All the same, one hears tales....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dogwood about the music", "response": "\"I hardly know what to say!\" she declares.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the wigs", "response": "\"Can you tell me anything about Mrs. Pepper's wigs?\" you ask.\n\n\"Hideous, aren't they?\" Mrs. Dogwood responds promptly. \"I don't know why she's so fond of them, or where she buys them, but I daresay there's no accounting for taste.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about writing on the brush", "response": "\"Well...\" she begins, then shakes her head, \"No, I don't have time to explain all that now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the mozart", "response": "\"To tell you the truth,\" she begins, and then goes off into a rambling explanation you lose the thread of somewhere in the middle of the third sentence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the ocarina to Dogwood", "response": "You show the ocarina to Mrs. Dogwood, and her face wrinkles in a disgusted frown. \"That awful thing? I've heard Mrs. Pepper tootling on it, though I don't think she could carry a tune in a basket. She only plays it inside the house, thank goodness -- and I fancy the noise comes from upstairs.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dogwood to play the ocarina", "response": "You suspect that trying to boss Mrs. Dogwood around may not be the best way to secure her friendly co-operation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Given the brush to dogwood", "response": "(give brush to dogwood)\n\n\"I'm afraid I'm not all that interested in that right now, dear,\" she replies, with a quick glance at the brush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the green wig", "response": "Okay, you're now wearing the green wig.\n\n\"My goodness,\" Mrs. Dogwood exclaims. \"What's that on your head? It looks just like one of Mrs. Pepper's awful wigs. It looks rather silly on you, I must say, but I suppose young people's sense of what's fashionable or trendy is not quite the same as mine.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the sleep", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nYou thumb through the index and find a listing for \"sleep, inducing.\" On the indicated page, the book explains that to put someone to sleep, you need to be wearing a magically prepared garment or head-covering and chant a brief incantation while wielding the Sign of the Scarlet Fish. Unfortunately, the incantation is written in an alphabet you've never seen before, although it may be in the same script as the writing on the hairbrush. It looks rather like Arabic, but with a lot more squiggles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the book to Dogwood", "response": "The word \"sdzzpx\" is not necessary in this story.\n\n\"I'm afraid I'm not all that interested in that right now, dear,\" she replies, with a quick glance at the yellow book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Mrs. Dogwood returns to her gardening.\n\nThe back porch is a plain wooden structure, with no railing or decoration. It looks as if it was tacked onto the house as an afterthought. It's several feet above the ground, with a ramp leading up to one side. The back door leading into the house is just to the south.\n\nMrs. Dogwood is working in the garden next door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the black wig", "response": "(first taking off the green wig)\nOkay, you're now wearing the black wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "(the black button)\nYou push the black button, but nothing happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead north, to the back porch; south, back to the hall; east, to the section of driveway beside the house; and down, to the cellar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play ocarina", "response": "You tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The bedroom door shimmers pleasantly for a moment, as if a rainbow of light is passing across it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "(the bedroom door)\nOpened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This boxy room is mostly unfurnished. Its most interesting feature is a large pot or planter -- the sort of thing you'd expect to see a potted palm growing in. In this pot, however, is a small brownish-green person.\n\nThe door is to the north, and there's a window in the opposite wall.\n\nA pamphlet is lying on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the pamphlet", "response": "(first taking the pamphlet)\nYou flip through the pamphlet. A lot of it is both boring and unlikely, but you manage to pick up one or two tidbits of information that might somehow be useful. First, the odd-looking little man in the pot is undoubtedly a garden elf, and not a pixie, leprechaun, or hobbit. The illustrations, though crudely drawn, make that pretty clear. Second, garden elves are reputed to be a type of plant, not an animal at all, though they look like little people. In the wild they're quite mobile: They can pop up out of the soil, duck down, and pop up again a hundred yards away in the blink of an eye -- but they can never venture more than a step or two away from the soil, as they have roots, not feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The window is narrow, consisting of a single pane of glass in a wooden frame. Curtains hang beside it. It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the curtains", "response": "You pull the curtains closed, thereby shutting out much of the light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "(first opening the curtains)\nOpened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The window is narrow, consisting of a single pane of glass in a wooden frame. Curtains hang beside it. It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the window", "response": "The window affords a view over the front yard and the busy street beyond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the garden elf", "response": "\"Hi there!\" you say.\n\nIn reply, the elf makes soft croaking, choking noises. With an effort, he finally manages to force out a few intelligible words: \"Water -- thirsty. Need water....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a small flashlight, a glass (full of water), a butter knife, three wigs (one green, one auburn, and one blond), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, a framed photo, a bunch of keys, a glass jar (broken), and a pamphlet. You're wearing a black wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the elf", "response": "When you lean over the pot and start to tip the glass of tap water into it, the elf writhes and convulses as if an electrical current were shooting through him. \"Nooooo!\" he cries in a quivering little voice. \"Nasty chemicals! Nooo, please. Need nice fresh water, not nasty chemical water.\" He falls back, sobbing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The elf looks at you regretfully.\n\nThe landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This small, square room is furnished in a plain, unattractive style. Opposite the bed stands a dressing table, on which is a row of styrofoam heads. The way out is to the south, and there's a bathroom to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Empty glass", "response": "Emptying the glass here would only make a mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You drink all the water in the glass; it tastes stale, flat, and rather bitter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the glass", "response": "(from the faucet)\n(first turning on the faucet, then putting the glass under it)\nYou hold the glass under the faucet until it fills up with water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You can't go that way. The only obvious exit leads west, back to the back bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This boxy room is mostly unfurnished. Its most interesting feature is a large pot or planter -- the sort of thing you'd expect to see a potted palm growing in. In this pot, however, is a small brownish-green person.\n\nThe door is to the north, and there's a window in the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You could easily break an ankle jumping out the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water", "response": "Emptying the glass here would only make a mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the water to the elf", "response": "\"Hi there!\" you say.\n\nWhen you lean over the pot and start to tip the glass of tap water into it, the elf writhes and convulses as if an electrical current were shooting through him. \"Nooooo!\" he cries in a quivering little voice. \"Nasty chemicals! Nooo, please. Need nice fresh water, not nasty chemical water.\" He falls back, sobbing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the green wig", "response": "(first taking off the black wig)\nOkay, you're now wearing the green wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear blond", "response": "(first taking off the green wig)\nOkay, you're now wearing the blond wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up rain", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nYou thumb through the index and find a listing for \"rain, summoning.\" On that page, the book explains that rain can be induced to fall by wearing a garment or head-covering imbued with the proper power while pouring water on the ground and holding a bamboo stick. The spell for adding this power to an ordinary garment is quite intimidatingly complex, sad to say, and requires several ingredients that you not only don't have but have never even heard of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a small flashlight, a glass (full of water), a butter knife, three wigs (one green, one auburn, and one black), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, a framed photo, a bunch of keys, a glass jar (broken), and a pamphlet. You're wearing a blond wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the bamboo", "response": "In reply, the elf makes soft croaking, choking noises. With an effort, he finally manages to force out a few intelligible words: \"Water -- thirsty. Need water....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the elf", "response": "His legs seem to be firmly rooted in the soil in the pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "small flashlight: You set down the small flashlight.\nglass: You put the glass down carefully.\nbutter knife: You set down the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You set down the green wig.\nauburn wig: You set down the auburn wig.\n\nblond wig:\n(first taking off the blond wig)\nYou set down the blond wig.\n\nblack wig: You set down the black wig.\nbrush: You set down the brush.\nmusical score: You set down the musical score.\nocarina: You set down the ocarina.\nremote control: You set down the remote control.\nyellow book: You set down the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You set down the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You set down the framed photo.\nbunch of keys: You set down the bunch of keys.\nglass jar: You set down the glass jar.\npamphlet: You set down the pamphlet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pot", "response": "You pick up the heavy pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the keys", "response": "You find that it's impossible to carry anything else while holding the heavy pot.\n\nThe elf looks at you regretfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The pot is far too heavy for you to carry any distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the elf", "response": "You set down the heavy pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the curtains", "response": "The curtains are made of some thin material printed in a predominantly blue chintzy pattern. They're open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the curtains", "response": "You pull the curtains closed, thereby shutting out much of the light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the curtains", "response": "The curtains are made of some thin material printed in a predominantly blue chintzy pattern. They're closed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This boxy room is mostly unfurnished. Its most interesting feature is a large pot or planter -- the sort of thing you'd expect to see a potted palm growing in. In this pot, however, is a small brownish-green person.\n\nThe door is to the north, and there's a window in the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pot", "response": "The fat brown pot looks to be made of earthenware. It's full of dirt, and a small, wrinkled, brownish-green person is lying curled up in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The back porch is a plain wooden structure, with no railing or decoration. It looks as if it was tacked onto the house as an afterthought. It's several feet above the ground, with a ramp leading up to one side. The back door leading into the house is just to the south.\n\nMrs. Dogwood is working in the garden next door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the garden", "response": "Over the fence you can see that the garden next door is very well tended. Growing in one corner is a spectacular patch of bamboo shoots.\n\nMrs. Dogwood is working in the garden next door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get skateboard", "response": "Your skateboard is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get shoot", "response": "The patch of bamboo shoots is too far away.\n\n(get short)\n\nYou have better things to do than mess with your hair right now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dogwood about the bamboo", "response": "\"Hello again,\" you say.\n\n\"Hi there, youngster,\" she replies.\n\n\"That's a very impressive patch of bamboo you have there, Mrs. Dogwood,\" you say.\n\n\"Oh, you like my bamboo,\" she replies. \"I'm quite proud of it. It's not as easy to grow in this climate as you might suppose.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get shoot", "response": "(get short)\n\nYou have better things to do than mess with your hair right now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dogwood about the bamboo", "response": "\"That's a very impressive patch of bamboo you have there, Mrs. Dogwood,\" you say.\n\n\"Oh, you like my bamboo,\" she replies. \"I'm quite proud of it. It's not as easy to grow in this climate as you might suppose.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dogwood for the bamboo", "response": "\"That's a very impressive patch of bamboo you have there, Mrs. Dogwood,\" you say. \"I've always thought it would be fun to have a walking cane made of bamboo. I don't suppose there's any chance you could cut off one of the pieces for me? You'd hardly miss it!\"\n\n\"Oh, you like my bamboo,\" she replies. \"I'm quite proud of it. Normally I dislike cutting it, but...\" She pauses.\n\n\"One good turn deserves another!\" she adds with a grin. \"Now that you've returned my brooch, I'd be happy to cut you a piece of bamboo!\"\n\nShe crosses her garden and returns a few moments later bearing a stick of bamboo, which she hands to you over the fence. \"Well, I believe I've done enough gardening for this afternoon,\" she finishes. \"I'm going to go inside now and phone Gladys to tell her all about how a nice young person found my brooch and returned it to me.\" With that, she strips off her gardening gloves and trots off toward her back door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the ground", "response": "The word \"gloves\" is not necessary in this story.\n\nYou pour all the water from the glass onto the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water", "response": "You pour all the water from the glass onto the ground. Within moments after the water splashes onto the ground, a very small but dense gray cloud gathers over your head. The brief rumble of thunder sounds more like the rattling of a sheet of tin in a cheap theatrical production than like real thunder -- but all the same, the cloud dumps a downpour of rain onto the ground for about ten seconds before dissipating as abruptly as it gathered. As the day is warm, the water on the ground swiftly evaporates in tendrils of steam. A good bit of water has fallen into the birdbath, however -- so much that it's in no danger of evaporating. The birdbath is now full of fresh rainwater.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the glass with the water", "response": "You fill the glass with fresh rainwater from the birdbath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the glass", "response": "(from the birdbath)\nThe glass is already full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink glass", "response": "You drink all the water in the glass; it tastes nice and fresh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the glass", "response": "(from the birdbath)\nYou dip the glass in the birdbath and fill it with fresh rainwater.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The back porch is a plain wooden structure, with no railing or decoration. It looks as if it was tacked onto the house as an afterthought. It's several feet above the ground, with a ramp leading up to one side. The back door leading into the house is just to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the water", "response": "(to the elf)\n\"Hi there!\" you say.\n\nAs the fresh rainwater trickles into the soil of the pot, the elf begins to uncurl and stretch. No longer a shriveled ball cowering in the pot, he stands up straight, his eyes bright. \"Ahh ... ahh! You don't know how wonderful that feels! I think maybe I won't die today after all. I'd hug you if I could, but --\" He bends his knees as if trying to lift his feet free of the soil in the pot. \"-- I've been rather planted, you see. I'm an elf, by the way, in case you hadn't guessed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the elf", "response": "You already have the elf's attention.\n\n(You could ask him about himself, Mrs. Pepper, your skateboard, or the pot, or tell him about your skateboard. You could also ask or tell him about various other things that might occur to you.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the skateboard", "response": "\"Can you tell me how I might be able to get my skateboard out from under the porch?\" you ask. \"I think the space under there is just too small for me to crawl in.\"\n\n\"If you could get me downstairs and outdoors, I could certainly retrieve it for you,\" the elf replies. \"I did notice that beneath the porch is only bare soil, not pavement, so I could go there. But how you'll be able to get me downstairs I don't know. This pot looks awfully heavy!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask elf for the page", "response": "\"Could you give me...?\" you begin.\n\n\"I doubt it,\" the elf replies, before you can even complete your request. \"My powers are very limited, you see.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the brush to the elf", "response": "\"I don't have any use for that, I'm afraid,\" the elf says. \"Thank you for showing it to me, though.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up swerve", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nYou thumb through the index and after hunting for a bit, find a listing for \"vehicles, wheeled, causing to swerve.\" The indicated page seems to have been torn out, however.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the car", "response": "\"I'm not much of a conversationalist,\" he admits. \"You've stumped me ... if you'll forgive the term.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the black button", "response": "\"That's not something I know very much about,\" he responds. \"I'm very sorry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the machine", "response": "\"You humans must lead such interesting lives,\" the elf says. \"You're just bursting with questions and comments!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the bamboo", "response": "\"Have you noticed the beautiful bamboo plant growing in the neighbor's yard?\" you ask.\n\n\"Oh, yes,\" the elf replies. \"From time to time I've seen humans using bamboo sticks for magical purposes, but I really don't know anything about how that might work. Perhaps you could look it up in the Encyclopedia Enchantica, if you can find a copy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take soil", "response": "You can't have that; it's part of the heavy pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the elf in the glass", "response": "(first trying to take the elf)\nHis legs seem to be firmly rooted in the soil in the pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the soil in the glass", "response": "You can't put that anywhere; it's part of the heavy pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "small flashlight: You set down the small flashlight.\nglass: You put the glass down carefully.\nbutter knife: You set down the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You set down the green wig.\nauburn wig: You set down the auburn wig.\n\nblond wig:\n(first taking off the blond wig)\nYou set down the blond wig.\n\nblack wig: You set down the black wig.\nbrush: You set down the brush.\nmusical score: You set down the musical score.\nocarina: You set down the ocarina.\nremote control: You set down the remote control.\nyellow book: You set down the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You set down the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You set down the framed photo.\nglass jar: You set down the glass jar.\npamphlet: You set down the pamphlet.\nbunch of keys: You set down the bunch of keys.\nbamboo stick: You set down the bamboo stick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pot", "response": "You pick up the heavy pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the pot", "response": "You set down the heavy pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "small flashlight: You pick up the small flashlight.\nglass: You pick up the glass.\nbutter knife: You pick up the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You pick up the green wig.\nauburn wig: You pick up the auburn wig.\nblond wig: You pick up the blond wig.\nblack wig: You pick up the black wig.\nbrush: You pick up the brush.\nmusical score: You pick up the musical score.\nocarina: You pick up the ocarina.\nremote control: You pick up the remote control.\nyellow book: You pick up the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You pick up the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You pick up the framed photo.\nglass jar: You pick up the glass jar.\npamphlet: You pick up the pamphlet.\nbunch of keys: You pick up the bunch of keys.\nbamboo stick: You pick up the bamboo stick.\n\nheavy pot: To pick up the pot, you'll need both hands free.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the screwdriver", "response": "(in the yellow book)\nThe yellow book doesn't seem to have much to say on that subject -- nothing you can find in the index, at any rate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play ocarina", "response": "You tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The bedroom door slams shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is closed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The cellar is dim and dismal. A flight of stairs leads up. Near the foot of the stairs a slim chain dangles from the ceiling. Off to one side squats a heavy piece of machinery, and a plank shelf has been built into the opposite wall.\n\nThe old wheelchair is resting just by the shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "The innards of the machine are concealed by a metal housing. On one side is a large vertically mounted wheel, around both sides of which a sturdy cable runs up through the ceiling. Not far from the cable a black-coated wire dangles down from the ceiling. The lower end of the wire swings free not far from a screw that protrudes from the top of the machine. Mounted in the north wall just behind the machine is a small metal door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the screw", "response": "The screw protrudes from the top plate of the machine housing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wire", "response": "The wire dangles down from the ceiling. It's covered with black insulating material, except for an inch or so at the lower end, which has the gleam of bare metal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine photo", "response": "The photo is of Mrs. Pepper and a man you've never seen. She is standing with her hand on his shoulder; he is sitting in a wheelchair, gazing up at her with an expression that's hard to read -- something between fondness and brave dread. She's grimacing at the camera, showing her teeth in a way that was probably meant to be a smile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This boxy little room is furnished in a fussy, old-fashioned style. The one modern touch is a wide-screen TV, with a couch facing it. A low coffee table sits in front of the couch, and a fireplace is set in another wall. There's a door to the south, and the open doorway to the hall is on the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the flashlight", "response": "Opening the small flashlight reveals an AA battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the battery in the remote", "response": "(first taking the AA battery from the small flashlight)\nDone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tv", "response": "It looks like you have to use the remote to do that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tv", "response": "It's already on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Change channel", "response": "The display on the TV changes to show an episode of the long-running sitcom \"Fiends,\" about a flat-sharing coven of witches.\n\nThe word \"change\" is not necessary in this story.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the couch", "response": "Searching your settee at home can frequently prove rewarding, since there's often the odd dime or quarter or lost bunch of keys fallen behind the cushions, but Mrs. Pepper's couch proves obstinately devoid of such interesting finds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "This boxy little room is furnished in a fussy, old-fashioned style. The one modern touch is a wide-screen TV, with a couch facing it. A low coffee table sits in front of the couch, and a fireplace is set in another wall. There's a door to the south, and the open doorway to the hall is on the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mantel", "response": "The mantel is a shelf about four feet long, which runs along the wall above the fireplace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull mantel", "response": "It's firmly fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a small flashlight, a glass, a butter knife, three wigs (one green, one auburn, and one blond), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, a framed photo, a glass jar (broken), a pamphlet, a bunch of keys, and a bamboo stick. You're wearing a black wig. The remote control contains an AA battery.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "This boxy little room is furnished in a fussy, old-fashioned style. The one modern touch is a wide-screen TV, with a couch facing it. A low coffee table sits in front of the couch, and a fireplace is set in another wall. There's a door to the south, and the open doorway to the hall is on the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "(first unlocking the front door, then trying to open it)\nThe front door won't budge; it resists your attempts to open it with almost supernatural determination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the black", "response": "You're already wearing it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play okarina", "response": "(play ocarina)\n\nYou tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The front door shimmers pleasantly for a moment, as if a rainbow of light is passing across it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "(first opening the front door)\n\nThe front door lies immediately to the north; the front yard is to the south. There's a doorbell button just by the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead north, back to the sitting room; and south, to the front yard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The front yard is mostly bare dirt and burned-out brown lawn, except for a few hardy weeds. A paved walkway crosses it, leading from the sidewalk on the south up to the front porch on the north. The driveway runs past the yard on the east side, and a tall fence guards what must be the neighbors' yard on the west. Growing next to the walkway is a scraggly, half-dead tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine weeds", "response": "The weeds look parched and withered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the weeds", "response": "You've never had any time for weeds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Mrs. Pepper's house lies directly to the west; the drive continues to the south, and a gravel path leads around the house to the northwest. Standing directly to the north is a detached garage.\n\nYou see a trash can and a trash can lid here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "(first trying to open the garage door)\nIt seems to have been shut for so long that the most recent layer of paint has sealed it up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the door with the knife", "response": "The butter knife doesn't have much of an edge to it. You'd probably have a hard time cutting butter with it, let alone the garage door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play okarina", "response": "(play ocarina)\n\nYou tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. You hear something slam shut nearby. The window slams shut. The garage door vibrates for a moment in a dull, heavy way, as if it's becoming darker and more massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play okarina", "response": "(play ocarina)\n\nYou tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The garage door and the windowboth shimmer pleasantly for a moment, as if a rainbow of light is passing across them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the garage", "response": "The single-car garage is built of weathered planks, which are painted an unlikely shade of avocado green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "The back yard is in a dreadful state. Except for a few sorry weeds, nothing grows here. Someone has dug holes of various sizes, leaving mounds of dirt and gravel everywhere. A concrete birdbath stands in the center of the yard. The back porch of the house lies directly to the south.\n\nThe driveway is off to the southeast, past the corner of the garage. The garage itself stands directly to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the garage", "response": "The garage is pretty much just a wooden shed. It's painted green, and there's a plain wooden door on this side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the holes", "response": "Which holes do you mean, the excavations, or the ocarina?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "(first unlocking the garage door)\nOpened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The interior of the garage smells dank and musty. A little sunlight leaks in through cracks and knotholes, and a pile of clutter occupies one corner. A workbench runs along the wall.\n\nA long-handled rake leans against the wall.\n\nOn the workbench is a toolbox.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clutter", "response": "The pile of clutter in the corner seems to consist mostly of discarded cardboard cartons, which are covered with dust and cobwebs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the spider", "response": "(get side)\n\nYou can't take that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the toolbox", "response": "You pick up the toolbox.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opening the toolbox reveals a screwdriver.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The interior of the garage smells dank and musty. A little sunlight leaks in through cracks and knotholes, and a pile of clutter occupies one corner. A workbench runs along the wall.\n\nA long-handled rake leans against the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine workbench", "response": "The workbench is built along one wall of the garage. It's rather stained and nicked, as if someone used it at one time, but now it's entirely bare of tools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rake", "response": "You pick up the rake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wall", "response": "(the north wall)\nYou see nothing unusual about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the garage door", "response": "(the garage side door)\nIt's an ordinary door. It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the screwd", "response": "You pick up the screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire", "response": "What do you want to attach it to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "To screw", "response": "It appears you'll need both hands. Trying to hold anything other than the screwdriver while doing that is just too awkward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all except the screwdriver", "response": "small flashlight: You set down the small flashlight.\nglass: You put the glass down carefully.\nbutter knife: You set down the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You set down the green wig.\nauburn wig: You set down the auburn wig.\nblond wig: You set down the blond wig.\n\nblack wig:\n(first taking off the black wig)\nYou set down the black wig.\n\nbrush: You set down the brush.\nmusical score: You set down the musical score.\nocarina: You set down the ocarina.\nremote control: You set down the remote control.\nyellow book: You set down the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You set down the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You set down the framed photo.\nglass jar: You set down the glass jar.\npamphlet: You set down the pamphlet.\nbunch of keys: You set down the bunch of keys.\nbamboo stick: You set down the bamboo stick.\ntoolbox: You set down the toolbox.\nrake: You set down the rake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the screw", "response": "Using the screwdriver, you attach the bare metal end of the wire to the screw on the top of the machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine machine", "response": "The innards of the machine are concealed by a metal housing. On one side is a large vertically mounted wheel, around both sides of which a sturdy cable runs up through the ceiling. Not far from the cable a black-coated wire dangles down from the ceiling. The wire is attached to a screw on the top of the machine. Mounted in the north wall just behind the machine is a small metal door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the switch", "response": "(the large red switch)\nA low humming sound starts coming from the machinery.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "The cellar is dim and dismal. A flight of stairs leads up. Near the foot of the stairs a slim chain dangles from the ceiling. Off to one side squats a heavy piece of machinery, and a plank shelf has been built into the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The old wheelchair is resting just by the shelf.\n\nYou see a small flashlight, a glass, a butter knife, four wigs (one green, one auburn, one blond, and one black), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, a framed photo, a glass jar (broken), a pamphlet, a bunch of keys, a bamboo stick, a toolbox, and a rake here. The remote control contains an AA battery.\n\nwheelchair: The old wheelchair would be far too awkward to carry. small flashlight: You pick up the small flashlight.\nglass: You pick up the glass.\nbutter knife: You pick up the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You pick up the green wig.\nauburn wig: You pick up the auburn wig.\nblond wig: You pick up the blond wig.\nblack wig: You pick up the black wig.\nbrush: You pick up the brush.\nmusical score: You pick up the musical score.\nocarina: You pick up the ocarina.\nremote control: You pick up the remote control.\nyellow book: You pick up the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You pick up the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You pick up the framed photo.\nglass jar: You pick up the glass jar.\npamphlet: You pick up the pamphlet.\nbunch of keys: You pick up the bunch of keys.\nbamboo stick: You pick up the bamboo stick.\ntoolbox: You pick up the toolbox.\nrake: You pick up the rake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the okarna", "response": "(play ocarina)\n\nYou tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The toolbox slams shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play okarina", "response": "(play ocarina)\n\nYou tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The toolbox shimmers pleasantly for a moment, as if a rainbow of light is passing across it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play okarina", "response": "(play ocarina)\n\nYou tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The small metal box slams shut. The toolbox vibrates for a moment in a dull, heavy way, as if it's becoming darker and more massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play okarina", "response": "(play ocarina)\n\nYou tootle a few sour notes on the ocarina. The small metal door and the toolboxboth shimmer pleasantly for a moment, as if a rainbow of light is passing across them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wheel", "response": "You push the red button, but nothing happens.\n\nThe wheel is mounted vertically on the side of the machine. A thick metal cable loops around it, extending upward through the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Which box do you mean, the small metal door, or the toolbox?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the switch", "response": "(the large red switch)\nThe machinery falls silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the switch", "response": "(the large red switch)\nA low humming sound starts coming from the machinery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel the machine", "response": "It feels pretty solid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the rake", "response": "I don't recognize the command USE, because it's a bit too vague; please be more specific about what you want to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the holes", "response": "Which holes do you mean, the excavations, or the ocarina?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Excavation", "response": "Holes of various sizes have been dug across the lawn, seemingly at random, as if some demented fortune-seeker were desperately seeking buried treasure. The more prosaic explanation, given the state of the back yard, is that the holes are due to energetic but incompetent gardening efforts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The kitchen is small, and equipped with the usual appliances, including a cupboard, a sink, a stove, and a refrigerator, though most of the space is taken up by the unusually bulky wooden table standing in the middle of the room. The back door leads north, while to the south is an open doorway. A flight of stairs on the west side of the", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "room leads down, roughly opposite the window in the east wall.\n\nThe fridge contains a large wedge of blue cheese and a stale loaf of bread.\n\nThere's an overpowering smell of over-ripe cheese.\n\nThis hall is little more than a narrow passage connecting the rooms to north and south. On the east side a flight of stairs leads up to the floor above, and there's an opening to the west, with a black button next to it at waist height.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This boxy little room is furnished in a fussy, old-fashioned style. The one modern touch is a wide-screen TV, with a couch facing it. A low coffee table sits in front of the couch, and a fireplace is set in another wall. There's a door to the south, and the open doorway to the hall is on the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The front door lies immediately to the north; the front yard is to the south. There's a doorbell button just by the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The front yard is mostly bare dirt and burned-out brown lawn, except for a few hardy weeds. A paved walkway crosses it, leading from the sidewalk on the south up to the front porch on the north. The driveway runs past the yard on the east side, and a tall fence guards what must be the neighbors' yard on the west. Growing next to the walkway is a scraggly, half-dead tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tree", "response": "A few green leaves cling to the crooked branches of the tree, but really it looks more dead than alive. Mrs. Pepper calls it her orange tree -- in fact, one of your more memorable run-ins with her occurred when she accused you of stealing oranges from the tree. But in truth you've never seen an orange growing on the tree. The idea that it's an orange tree is purely a theory, as far as you're concerned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the rake at the the nutter", "response": "(throw rake at the outer)\n\nThe rake falls to the lawn well short of the at the end of the driveway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rake", "response": "You pick up the rake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fence", "response": "The fence is tall, and made of solid vertical boards. Once they were painted white, but by now they're gray and a bit water-stained.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The driveway continues northward along the side of the house, and leads south out to sidewalk and beyond it the street. On the east the driveway is bordered by a high fence, and Mrs. Pepper's front yard lies to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "(first trying to stand on the trash can)\nYou can't stand on the can after removing the lid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fence", "response": "The fence to the north is tall and solid. The fence to the west is somewhat lower, allowing you to look over it into the adjoining yard, where a neighbor is at work in her garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the skateboard with the rake", "response": "By groping with the rake under the porch, you manage to drag your skateboard close enough to get your hands on it -- and then you pick it up. Success!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skateboard", "response": "The flame decals are starting to peel off, but that's because you've spent so many happy hours zipping around town on your skateboard.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead north, back to the back porch; south, to the hall; east, to the section of driveway beside the house; and down, to the cellar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This hall is little more than a narrow passage connecting the rooms to north and south. On the east side a flight of stairs leads up to the floor above, and there's an opening to the west, with a black button next to it at waist height.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This boxy room is mostly unfurnished. Its most interesting feature is a large pot or planter -- the sort of thing you'd expect to see a potted palm growing in. In this pot, however, is a small brownish-green person.\n\nThe door is to the north, and there's a window in the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "screwdriver: You set down the screwdriver.\nsmall flashlight: You set down the small flashlight.\nglass: You put the glass down carefully.\nbutter knife: You set down the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You set down the green wig.\nauburn wig: You set down the auburn wig.\nblond wig: You set down the blond wig.\n\nblack wig:\n(first taking off the black wig)\nYou set down the black wig.\n\nbrush: You set down the brush.\nmusical score: You set down the musical score.\nocarina: You set down the ocarina.\nremote control: You set down the remote control.\nyellow book: You set down the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You set down the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You set down the framed photo.\nglass jar: You set down the glass jar.\npamphlet: You set down the pamphlet.\nbunch of keys: You set down the bunch of keys.\nbamboo stick: You set down the bamboo stick.\ntoolbox: You set down the toolbox.\nrake: You set down the rake.\nyour skateboard: You set down your skateboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pot on the skateboard", "response": "Done.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "room leads down, roughly opposite the window in the east wall.\n\nThe fridge contains a large wedge of blue cheese and a stale loaf of bread.\n\nThere's an overpowering smell of over-ripe cheese.\n\nThe cellar is dim and dismal. A flight of stairs leads up. Near the foot of the stairs a slim chain dangles from the ceiling. Off to one side squats a heavy piece of machinery, and a plank shelf has been built into the opposite wall.\n\nThe old wheelchair is resting just by the shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the machine", "response": "It looks impossible to move the machinery and unwise to try.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "The landing runs north-south past a steel door to the west. A staircase leads down to the floor below, and there's a black button low on the west wall. Immediately to the south the bedroom door is open.\n\nYour skateboard is lying on the floor.\n\nThe elf is standing in the pot that's on your skateboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "There's a short hum and then the steel door slides open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "The steel door slides shut; a few moments later there is a brief humming noise, accompanied by a momentary sensation of lightness.\nThen the steel door slides open.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The back yard is in a dreadful state. Except for a few sorry weeds, nothing grows here. Someone has dug holes of various sizes, leaving mounds of dirt and gravel everywhere. A concrete birdbath stands in the center of the yard. The back porch of the house lies directly to the south.\n\nThe driveway is off to the southeast, past the corner of the garage. The garage itself stands directly to the east.\n\nYour skateboard is lying on the floor in the back porch.\n\nOn your skateboard is a heavy pot.\n\nThe elf is waiting for you to follow him to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "\"No! No! Not that way!\" the elf stops you, his voice strangely compelling, \"We must go that way!\" He nods towards the section of driveway beside the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "The elf leads the way to the side of the house.\n\nMrs. Pepper's house lies directly to the west; the drive continues to the south, and a gravel path leads around the house to the northwest. Standing directly to the north is a detached garage.\n\nYou see a trash can and a trash can lid here.\n\nThe elf beckons you to follow him south along the driveway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The elf strides ahead of you into the drive.\n\nThe driveway continues northward along the side of the house, and leads south out to sidewalk and beyond it the street. On the east the driveway is bordered by a high fence, and Mrs. Pepper's front yard lies to the west.\n\nThe elf nods towards the front yard, indicating that you are to follow him westwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The elf accompanies you into the front yard.\n\nThe front yard is mostly bare dirt and burned-out brown lawn, except for a few hardy weeds. A paved walkway crosses it, leading from the sidewalk on the south up to the front porch on the north. The driveway runs past the yard on the east side, and a tall fence guards what must be the neighbors' yard on the west. Growing next to the walkway is a scraggly, half-dead tree.\n\nThe elf stops in the middle of the front yard and nods towards the tree. \"Do you see that poor bedraggled orange tree there? It hasn't borne fruit in years, and may never again, unless someone else buys this house and nurtures it back to health. But it's not quite dead, no indeed. Watch closely now.\"\n\nHe gestures at the nearest branch with his long, slim, gnarled fingers. As you watch, a single bud bursts forth at the end of the branch. At first no more than a tiny green nub, it swells rapidly.\nIn a few seconds a plump, ripe orange is hanging from the branch.\n\n\"Go ahead,\" says the elf. \"Pick the orange and enjoy it. It's yours. Oh,\" he adds, handing you your skateboard, \"you nearly forgot this.\" Before you can stammer your thanks -- before you can blurt out the dozen questions jostling in your head about what it's like being an elf, and where he came from, and whether you'll ever see him again -- the elf has somehow folded himself inward, like a fast-motion film of a growing plant when the film is run backwards. He shrinks and runs downward into the soil, and he's gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The driveway continues northward along the side of the house, and leads south out to sidewalk and beyond it the street. On the east the driveway is bordered by a high fence, and Mrs. Pepper's front yard lies to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're at the outer end of Mrs. Pepper's driveway, which extends to the north alongside her house. Before the house is a square of sadly neglected lawn. The sidewalk runs east and west from here, and the street is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying your skateboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This stretch of sidewalk runs more or less east-west between the busy street to the south and a tall, water-stained fence to the north.\nJust a few yards further west the fence ends where Mrs. Pepper's driveway thrusts into the roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "There's too much traffic for you to consider crossing the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "After taking a hurried detour to put Mrs. Pepper's possessions back where you found them, lock her house and garage, and toss the keys under the back porch, you head home, happy as can be: Not only did you meet an elf and save him from certain death, but you got your skateboard back too.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You pick the orange", "response": "The orange tree is not something you can pick. Possibly you meant to type 'pick up'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get orange", "response": "The orange tree is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get orange", "response": "You pick the orange.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat it", "response": "You peel the orange carefully, remove a section, and bite into it. Quite possibly it's the best-tasting orange you've ever had in your life!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the orange", "response": "(at Mrs. Pepper's house)\nThe orange hits Mrs. Pepper's house without any obvious effect, and falls to the lawn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "After taking a hurried detour to put Mrs. Pepper's possessions back where you found them, lock her house and garage, and toss the keys under the back porch, you head home, happy as can be: Not only did you meet an elf and save him from certain death, but you got your skateboard back too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a small flashlight, a glass, a butter knife, three wigs (one green, one auburn, and one blond), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, a framed photo, a glass jar (broken), a pamphlet, a bunch of keys, and a bamboo stick. You're wearing a black wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first unlocking the garage door, then opening it)\n\nThe interior of the garage smells dank and musty. A little sunlight leaks in through cracks and knotholes, and a pile of clutter occupies one corner. A workbench runs along the wall.\n\nA long-handled rake leans against the wall.\n\nOn the workbench is a toolbox.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the toolbox", "response": "The word \"debris\" is not necessary in this story.\n\nOpening the toolbox reveals a screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "The toolbox is made of metal, and has a hinged lid. Except for a few dents and dribbles of paint, it appears to be in good condition. It's open, and contains a screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the screwdriver", "response": "You pick up the screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the workbench", "response": "The workbench is built along one wall of the garage. It's rather stained and nicked, as if someone used it at one time, but now it's mostly bare of tools. On the workbench is a toolbox.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rake", "response": "You pick up the rake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rake", "response": "You are already carrying the rake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rake", "response": "This is the long-handled rake that Mrs. Pepper tried to claw you with. Its long metal tines are filthy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the porch", "response": "Deep in the shadows beneath the porch, you spy your skateboard!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the skateboard with the rake", "response": "By groping with the rake under the porch, you manage to drag your skateboard close enough to get your hands on it -- and then you pick it up. Success!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skateboard", "response": "The flame decals are starting to peel off, but that's because you've spent so many happy hours zipping around town on your skateboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The back porch is a plain wooden structure, with no railing or decoration. It looks as if it was tacked onto the house as an afterthought. It's several feet above the ground, with a ramp leading up to one side. The back door leading into the house is just to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the screw with the screwdriver", "response": "You give the screw a little twist with the screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the screw", "response": "(from the machinery)\nYou can't have that; it's part of the machinery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It's a small metal box, recessed into the wall behind a small gray door, and containing a large red switch. A thick cable runs up from the box to the ceiling. It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the switch", "response": "Which switch do you mean, the large red switch, or the small flashlight?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Large red switch", "response": "(the large red switch)\nIt's a large red switch, mounted on the wall in a gray box, and currently in the 'down (off)' position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the metal door", "response": "The small metal box is already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cable", "response": "(the braided metal cable)\nThe thick braided metal cable loops around the wheel on the side of the machine. From both sides of the wheel, it extends upward through small holes in the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the metal door", "response": "(the ocarina)\nThe plastic ocarina is about the shape and color of a potato. There are a few holes across the top, and a sort of mouthpiece at one side for blowing into.\n\nYou're not an ant!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the wire", "response": "The wire fails to shock you. Evidently the switch on the wall is the circuit breaker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "small flashlight: You set down the small flashlight.\nglass: You put the glass down carefully.\nbutter knife: You set down the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You set down the green wig.\nauburn wig: You set down the auburn wig.\nblond wig: You set down the blond wig.\n\nblack wig:\n(first taking off the black wig)\nYou set down the black wig.\n\nbrush: You set down the brush.\nmusical score: You set down the musical score.\nocarina: You set down the ocarina.\nremote control: You set down the remote control.\nyellow book: You set down the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You set down the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You set down the framed photo.\nglass jar: You set down the glass jar.\npamphlet: You set down the pamphlet.\nbunch of keys: You set down the bunch of keys.\nbamboo stick: You set down the bamboo stick.\nscrewdriver: You set down the screwdriver.\nrake: You set down the rake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the screw", "response": "your skateboard: You set down your skateboard.\n\nTo do that, you'll need a screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the screwdriver", "response": "You pick up the screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the screw", "response": "Using the screwdriver, you attach the bare metal end of the wire to the screw on the top of the machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "wheelchair: The old wheelchair would be far too awkward to carry. small flashlight: You pick up the small flashlight.\nglass: You pick up the glass.\nbutter knife: You pick up the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You pick up the green wig.\nauburn wig: You pick up the auburn wig.\nblond wig: You pick up the blond wig.\nblack wig: You pick up the black wig.\nbrush: You pick up the brush.\nmusical score: You pick up the musical score.\nocarina: You pick up the ocarina.\nremote control: You pick up the remote control.\nyellow book: You pick up the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You pick up the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You pick up the framed photo.\nglass jar: You pick up the glass jar.\npamphlet: You pick up the pamphlet.\nbunch of keys: You pick up the bunch of keys.\nbamboo stick: You pick up the bamboo stick.\nrake: You pick up the rake.\nyour skateboard: You pick up your skateboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the red switch", "response": "A low humming sound starts coming from the machinery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine machine", "response": "The innards of the machine are concealed by a metal housing. On one side is a large vertically mounted wheel, around both sides of which a sturdy cable runs up through the ceiling. Not far from the cable a black-coated wire dangles down from the ceiling. The wire is attached to a screw on the top of the machine. Mounted in the north wall just behind the machine is a small metal door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The small metal box is already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the door", "response": "(the bedroom door)\nYou can't board that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the elevator", "response": "This chamber is not much larger than a closet. The way out is to the east, next to a waist-height black button.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "(first trying to open the steel door)\nThe steel door seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead north, to the back bedroom; south, to the front bedroom; west; and down, back to the hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This chamber is not much larger than a closet. The way out is to the east, next to a waist-height black button.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "(the black button)\nThe steel door slides shut; a few moments later there is a brief humming noise, accompanied by a momentary sensation of lightness.\nThen the steel door slides open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the skateboard", "response": "With some pride, you tell the elf how you got your skateboard out from under the porch using the rake. \"I'm very happy for you,\" he says, not sounding particularly happy. \"I've seen young humans racing down the walk on skateboards, and it does look like fun. But I've never been on one myself, nor am ever likely to be, since I have roots in place of feet.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the elevator", "response": "\"Did you know there's an elevator in this house?\" you ask the elf.\n\n\"What's an elevator?\" he replies. \"I'm a creature of the Great Outdoors, you'll understand. I know very little about what's inside houses.\"\n\n\"It's ... well, it's a little room that goes up and down,\" you explain.\n\n\"You mean, like a bird?\"\n\n\"Well, no,\" you admit. \"An elevator isn't really very much like a bird. It's more like ... oh, never mind.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the elf", "response": "\"I don't know very much about ... little people,\" you venture. \"Are you by any chance an elf?\"\n\n\"Why, that I am. A good guess. Not a very important elf, though, just a common garden elf. My name is Turlix.\" He bows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about yourself", "response": "\"That's not something I know very much about,\" he responds. \"I'm very sorry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Turlix about the mr pepper", "response": "\"I'm not much of a conversationalist,\" he admits. \"You've stumped me ... if you'll forgive the term.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the mr pepper", "response": "\"You humans must lead such interesting lives,\" the elf says. \"You're just bursting with questions and comments!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the elves", "response": "\"Do all garden elves live in pots in houses?\" you ask. \"I mean, I wouldn't have guessed.\"\n\n\"Oh, no,\" he says, shaking his head sadly. \"I'm being held captive by that awful woman. It was my own fault,\" he says, looking chagrined. \"Her garden is such a disaster, so dreadful and dismal and abysmal. Day after day I would see her out there raking, and nothing to rake but rocks! Finally, one day it was too much for me. I popped up and told her in no uncertain terms what a shameful mess she'd made of it.\n\n\"She asked for my help. Demanded it, truth be told. I told her, there's not much I can do with a garden so decrepit. I can encourage a seed to sprout, or perhaps coax a tree to bring forth a few extra blossoms, but fill a garden of gravel with flowers and vegetables? It would take a hundred elves a hundred days to do it.\n\n\"She listened to me, nodding all the while. I thought she understood. But then she did -- something, I'm not sure what, except that I think it was a magic spell that came from the absurd thing she was wearing on her head. I felt myself getting sleepy, and when I awoke I was up here in this room, in this pot, completely cut off from the soil of the Earth.\n\n\"And then she told me if I wouldn't promise to make her garden grow, she would never let me go! I told her it was beyond my poor powers, but she didn't want to believe me. Lately she's begun tormenting me by not watering me. As if that would convince me to promise something I can't possibly achieve. We elves know better than to make promises we can't keep. If you hadn't come along, I'm sure I would have dried up and blown away before another day had gone by.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a screwdriver, a small flashlight, a glass, a butter knife, four wigs (one green, one auburn, one blond, and one black), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, a framed photo, a glass jar (broken), a pamphlet, a bunch of keys, a bamboo stick, a rake, and your skateboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask him about the pot", "response": "\"Are you comfortable in that pot?\" you ask the elf.\n\n\"Oh, it's not too bad,\" he replies. \"It will be months before I'm root-bound, and if I can't escape from here before then I'm sure I'll be dead.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This boxy room is mostly unfurnished. Its most interesting feature is a large pot or planter -- the sort of thing you'd expect to see a potted palm growing in. In this pot, however, is a small brownish-green person.\n\nThe door is to the north, and there's a window in the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cupboard", "response": "It's seen better days, but it still appears functional. It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cheese", "response": "The cheese is runny in some spots and dried and crusty in other spots, all at the same time. Its odor is remarkable: If it gets much riper, it'll probably come when you call it. Phewww! It smells horrible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cheese", "response": "You'd rather leave it where it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "The fridge is already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in fridge", "response": "The fridge contains a stale loaf of bread and a large wedge of blue cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The kitchen is small, and equipped with the usual appliances, including a cupboard, a sink, a stove, and a refrigerator, though most of the space is taken up by the unusually bulky wooden table standing in the middle of the room. The back door leads north, while to the south is an open doorway. A flight of stairs on the west side of the room leads down, roughly opposite the window in the east wall.\n\nThe fridge contains a stale loaf of bread and a large wedge of blue cheese.\n\nThere's an overpowering smell of over-ripe cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine birdbath", "response": "The gray concrete birdbath is thick and ugly. Its basin is brimming with fresh rain water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the glass with the water", "response": "You fill the glass with fresh rainwater from the birdbath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead north, to the back bedroom; south, to the front bedroom; west, to the small compartment; and down, back to the hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the elf", "response": "\"Oh, I don't need any more water,\" the elf assures you. \"I'm fine now, thanks to your very kind help!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the elf about the native soil", "response": "\"Where do you usually live?\" you ask the elf. \"Or grow, or whatever it is you do?\"\n\n\"Almost anywhere there's a bit of soil,\" he replies. \"Even if it's gravelly or parched, I don't mind too much.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pot", "response": "The fat brown pot looks to be made of earthenware. It's full of dirt, and a small, wrinkled, brownish-green person is standing in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dirt", "response": "You can't have that; it's part of the heavy pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig elf", "response": "What do you want to dig in him with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying a screwdriver, a small flashlight, a glass (full of water), a butter knife, four wigs (one green, one auburn, one blond, and one black), a brush, a musical score, an ocarina, a remote control, a yellow book, a piece of paper, a framed photo, a glass jar (broken), a pamphlet, a bunch of keys, a bamboo stick, a rake, and your skateboard.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You can't go that way. Obvious exits lead north, to the kitchen; south, to the sitting room; west, to the small compartment; and up, back to the landing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This chamber is not much larger than a closet. The way out is to the east, next to a waist-height black button.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wheelchair", "response": "The old wheelchair would be far too awkward to carry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the wheelchair east", "response": "Something is stopping the wheelchair from moving -- probably the brake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the brake", "response": "It's just a short lever with a worn rubber grip at the end. The exposed metal part is beginning to look a bit rusty. Apparently the brake is on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "You pull the brake lever to its stop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brake", "response": "It's just a short lever with a worn rubber grip at the end. The exposed metal part is beginning to look a bit rusty. Apparently the brake is off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the wheelchair east", "response": "You can't go that way. The only obvious exit leads up, back to the kitchen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the wheelchair u.", "response": "You can hardly push the wheelchair up the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the skateboard", "response": "You set down your skateboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pot on the skateboard", "response": "(first trying to take the heavy pot)\nTo pick up the pot, you'll need both hands free.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "screwdriver: You set down the screwdriver.\nsmall flashlight: You set down the small flashlight.\nglass: You put the glass down carefully.\nbutter knife: You set down the butter knife.\ngreen wig: You set down the green wig.\nauburn wig: You set down the auburn wig.\nblond wig: You set down the blond wig.\nblack wig: You set down the black wig.\nbrush: You set down the brush.\nmusical score: You set down the musical score.\nocarina: You set down the ocarina.\nremote control: You set down the remote control.\nyellow book: You set down the yellow book.\npiece of paper: You set down the piece of paper.\nframed photo: You set down the framed photo.\nglass jar: You set down the glass jar.\npamphlet: You set down the pamphlet.\nbunch of keys: You set down the bunch of keys.\nbamboo stick: You set down the bamboo stick.\nrake: You set down the rake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pot on the skateboard", "response": "(first taking the heavy pot)\nDone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "The elf leads the way to the side of the house.\n\nMrs. Pepper's house lies directly to the west; the drive continues to the south, and a gravel path leads around the house to the northwest. Standing directly to the north is a detached garage.\n\nYou see a trash can and a trash can lid here.\n\nThe elf beckons you to follow him south along the driveway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The elf strides ahead of you into the drive.\n\nThe driveway continues northward along the side of the house, and leads south out to sidewalk and beyond it the street. On the east the driveway is bordered by a high fence, and Mrs. Pepper's front yard lies to the west.\n\nThe elf nods towards the front yard, indicating that you are to follow him westwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The elf accompanies you into the front yard.\n\nThe front yard is mostly bare dirt and burned-out brown lawn, except for a few hardy weeds. A paved walkway crosses it, leading from the sidewalk on the south up to the front porch on the north. The driveway runs past the yard on the east side, and a tall fence guards what must be the neighbors' yard on the west. Growing next to the walkway is a scraggly, half-dead tree.\n\nThe elf stops in the middle of the front yard and nods towards the tree. \"Do you see that poor bedraggled orange tree there? It hasn't borne fruit in years, and may never again, unless someone else buys this house and nurtures it back to health. But it's not quite dead, no indeed. Watch closely now.\"\n\nHe gestures at the nearest branch with his long, slim, gnarled fingers. As you watch, a single bud bursts forth at the end of the branch. At first no more than a tiny green nub, it swells rapidly.\nIn a few seconds a plump, ripe orange is hanging from the branch.\n\n\"Go ahead,\" says the elf. \"Pick the orange and enjoy it. It's yours. Oh,\" he adds, handing you your skateboard, \"you nearly forgot this.\" Before you can stammer your thanks -- before you can blurt out the dozen questions jostling in your head about what it's like being an elf, and where he came from, and whether you'll ever see him again -- the elf has somehow folded himself inward, like a fast-motion film of a growing plant when the film is run backwards. He shrinks and runs downward into the soil, and he's gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying your skateboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get orange", "response": "You pick the orange.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the orange", "response": "You peel the orange carefully, remove a section, and bite into it. Quite possibly it's the best-tasting orange you've ever had in your life!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the orange", "response": "The orange is round and juicy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the orange", "response": "You finish off the last of the orange, lick your fingers, and toss the peel away. Yum!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "To the north, across a sadly dried-up and decrepit yard, stands Mrs. Pepper's house. You can also go east or west along the sidewalk. The busy street is to the south. A telephone pole plastered with the scraps of old posters stands here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "After taking a hurried detour to put Mrs. Pepper's possessions back where you found them, lock her house and garage, and toss the keys under the back porch, you head home, happy as can be: Not only did you meet an elf and save him from certain death, but you got your skateboard back too.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Humor" ]

[ "combat", "cover art", "no EXAMINE", "play once", "puzzle combat", "Xyzzy Awards 2006" ]

[ 5, 10, 12, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "This is a try-to-win-on-the-first-attempt game. The point of the game is to try to win on the first attempt. Or, failing that, to win in as few attempts as possible. You are not supposed to use \"undo\" or \"restore\" if things are going badly. (Though it is OK to use \"save\" and then later \"restore\" if you have to leave the game for a while. And it is OK to save the game as often as you like.)\nGet it? Yes or no?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Ok, I will give an example. Say you are playing a game where you start in a burning building. If this were a normal game maybe you would want to search the building. Maybe you would find things. If you died you could just restart. But if you where playing a try-to-win-on-the-first-attempt game, you would probably want to run out, otherwise you might burn and die and then you would probably not win on the first attempt.\nNow do you understand? Yes or no?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Well I give up. Just play the game.\n\nNorway 1994. The country is overrun by yeti robot zombies! Death tolls are high. The cities are particularly strongly infested, and many people have fled to more desolate places. You too have escaped from a city, and have traveled to your cabin in Jotunheimen.\n\nThose who care can type CREDITS.\nExamine, look at, look inside, look under, look behind, look <direction> and search have not been implemented. You can still use look, inventory and read.\nNo time passes when you use \"look\" or \"inventory\".\nYou communicate by \"talk to [whatever]\".\nShould you wish to re-read the above information during the game, type ABOUT.\n\nHigh up in Jotunheimen, on a path going west (where you came from) and east. To the north of you is your cabin, to the south a long drop. Behind your cabin is a steep tall mountain wall. The door to your cabin is gone. Bullet holes show it has been shot away. It must have been done by humans; yeti robot zombies don't carry guns.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "High up in Jotunheimen, on a path going west (where you came from) and east. To the north of you is your cabin, to the south a long drop. Behind your cabin is a steep tall mountain wall. The door to your cabin is gone. Bullet holes show it has been shot away. It must have been done by humans; yeti robot zombies don't carry guns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "In this game examine, look at, look in, look under, look behind and search have not been implemented. You can still use look, inventory and read.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "It looks like some very heavy fighting has taken place here; all the furniture has been smashed to bits. Your bedroom is west, the outside south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "All the furniture has been smashed here too, except for the large closet. It is open and empty. An extremely dead soldier lies all over the floor. A cell phone and a plasma rifle lie here. They are not yours. Maybe they belonged to the soldier. The only exit is east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cell phone and the rifle", "response": "cell phone: Taken.\nplasma rifle: You take the rifle. You notice it has 6 shots left.\n\nThe cell phone rings. You answer it. \"Hello?\" you say.\n\"Private H?rland is that you?\" says a voice.\n\"No, I'm afraid he is dead. I found him in my cabin, it looks like he was torn apart by a yeti robot zombie.\"\n\"Fytti katta!\" the voice curses.\n\"Who is this?\"\n\"This is general Hansen.\"\n\"And why is there a dead man in my cabin?\"\n\"He probably broke in to look for provisions. The yeti robot zombies have attacked our bases and eaten all our food. And the army. Private H?rland and me were the last ones left. And I can't fight much. My arms and legs have just been eaten. I barely managed to bite through the throat of the yeti robot zombie who attacked me. Then I dialed the phone with my nose.\"\n\"Then... we have lost?\" you say.\n\"Maybe not. I have found out who the evil boss is that is behind all the yeti robot zombies. His headquarters are in Drammen.\"\n\"Great. But who can stop him?\"\n\"It will have to be you.\"\n\"Me? But I can't.\" you say.\n\"You have to. There is nobody else left. But don't worry; I will guide you whilst slowly bleeding to death. First, do you have a gun?\"\n\"Yeah I have a rifle. There are six shots left.\"\n\"That is is not enough. You are bound to encounter many yeti robot zombies on your mission. You must try to find a way to get past them without shooting them.\"\n\"But how? I can't fight them with my hands. And I certainly can't talk to them.\"\n\"I know. You just have to think of something. Now listen up. There is a cave east of your cabin. Go there. We have a small military base hidden inside it.\"\n\"Very well.\"\n\nJust then you hear a Chewbaccaesque roar from the living room. There is a yeti robot zombie in your cabin! It could walk into the bedroom any minute now!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "All the furniture has been smashed here too, except for the large closet. It is open and empty. An extremely dead soldier lies all over the floor. The only exit is east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the closet", "response": "You get into the closet.\n\nYou hear the roar of a yeti robot zombie in the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close closet", "response": "You close the closet and wait. Not long after you can hear something heavy walk into the room. You hold your breath. It sounds as if it is kicking the remains of the furniture around. Then you hear the roar of the yeti robot zombie. Then it hits the closet! The closet shakes. Have you been discovered? But then you hear the monster leave. You breathe out. You wait a while, then open the closet again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the soldier", "response": "Yuck! You don't want to move a corpse around!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You'll have to get out of the closet first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get out", "response": "You get out of the closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "It looks like some very heavy fighting has taken place here; all the furniture has been smashed to bits. Your bedroom is west, the outside south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "High up in Jotunheimen, on a path going west (where you came from) and east. To the north of you is your cabin, to the south a long drop. Behind your cabin is a steep tall mountain wall. The door to your cabin is gone. Bullet holes show it has been shot away. It must have been done by humans; yeti robot zombies don't carry guns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Just a couple of meters east of your cabin, and what do you know, there is a cave here! You had no idea! You can enter it by going north. To the south and east is a long drop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Passages go northeast and northwest. South leads out.\n\nYou speak into the cell phone. \"Ok, I'm in the cave now.\"\n\"Good. The entrance to our base should not be hard to find. It will however be locked. There is a soldier in the cave who has a ring of keys. One of the keys fits the lock. The soldier is off course dead. Torn apart by yeti robot zombies.\"\n\"Yikes! That means there could be yeti robot zombies in the cave right now?\"\n\"Yes.\"\n\nJust then you hear a yeti robot zombie roar from the northeast. It seems to be getting closer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Passages go southeast and northeast. A heavy-looking iron door leads west. It is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "It seems to be locked.\n\nYou hear a roar from the southeast. It seems to be getting closer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Passages go southwest and southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Passages go northwest and southwest. Another dead soldier lies all over the place.\n\nA ring of keys lies here. There must be at least sixty keys on it!\n\nYou hear a roar from the southwest. It gets further and further away, then disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the keys", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Passages go northeast and northwest. South leads out.\n\nYou hear a roar from the northwest. It gets further and further away, then disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "Passages go southeast and northeast. A heavy-looking iron door leads west. It is closed.\n\nYou hear a roar from the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock door", "response": "You try one of the keys. It does not fit.\n\nYou hear a roar from the northeast. It gets further and further away, then disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "You try another key. It does not fit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "You try a new key. It does not fit.\n\nYou hear a roar from the southeast. It seems to be getting closer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Passages go southwest and southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "Passages go northwest and southwest. Another dead soldier lies all over the place.\n\nYou hear a roar from the southwest. It gets further and further away, then disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "Passages go northeast and northwest. South leads out.\n\nYou hear a roar from the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "Passages go southeast and northeast. A heavy-looking iron door leads west. It is closed.\n\nYou can see a yeti robot zombie here.\n\nThe yeti robot zombie roars when it sees you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You try to leave, but the yeti robot zombie grabs you and drags you back. You manage to shake loose from its grip.\n\nThe yeti robot zombie roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the yeti", "response": "\"Have a taste of plasma!\" you say. A plasma beam evaporates the yeti robot zombie. Five shots left.\n\n\"Did I hear a shot?\" says the general on the phone. \"Careful son, you gotta save the ammo. Find some way to avoid shooting the monsters.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock door", "response": "You try a new key. It does not fit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock door", "response": "You try a new key. It fits. What luck! You unlock the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the north is a doorway. To the east is a heavy-looking iron door. It is open.\n\nYou speak into the cell phone \"I am inside the base.\"\n\"Excellent. On the second floor is a cabinet. It is locked, but one of your keys will open it. Inside the cabinet is an experimental teleporting device. Just push the button, and it will teleport you to our main base, on the other side of the mountain.\"\n\"Very well.\"\n\nSuddenly you hear a roar to the east. A yeti robot zombie must be just outside the door!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the door.\n\nYou hear a roar from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "You lock the door.\n\nThere comes a loud bang from the door, as if something large is being smashed against it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "To the south and north are doorways. Lots of useless debris blocks the north doorway. It is going to take several minutes to move it away.\n\nYou hear a bang from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clear debris", "response": "As you begin to move the debris, the bangs from the south get louder and more frequent. You hurry up. Soon the debris is out of the way.\n\nYou hear loud bangs and angry roaring from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "To the south is a doorway. Stairs goes up.\n\nYou hear a roar behind you and turn. A yeti robot zombie was standing up against the wall, besides the door. Now it moves in front of the door, blocking it. But the stairs are clear. And you know yeti robot zombies are really bad at walking up stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Stairs go down. A glass cabinet is here. It is closed. Inside it is a small black box with a round red button.\n\nYou hear the clamor of a yeti robot zombie trying to walk up the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the cabinet", "response": "You smash the cabinet to pieces with your fists. The small black box falls on the floor.\n\nYou hear the clamor of a yeti robot zombie trying to walk up the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Stairs go down. There is a glass door to the east, and another one to the west. Both are closed.\n\nYou hear the clamor of two yeti robot zombies trying to walk up the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The door is locked.\n\nYou hear the clamor of two yeti robot zombies trying to walk up the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the east door", "response": "You smash the door to pieces with your fists.\n\nYou hear the clamor of two yeti robot zombies trying to walk up the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A doorway leads west. Stairs go up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "A small flat roof above/on the side of a large military base in the mountains. Stairs go down. You can enter a chopper to the north. In all other directions is a long drop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "There is a control panel here. The only thing interesting about it at the moment is the big button that starts the chopper. It is going to take several minutes to start up the chopper. You can leave south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "The fat yeti robot zombie blocks the way.\n\nThe yeti robot zombies shake their heads from side to side, roaring.\n\nYou hear the hum of the chopper starting up.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "There is a control panel here. The only thing interesting about it at the moment is the big button that starts the chopper. You have pushed it, and you can hear the chopper starting up. You can leave south.\n\nYou can see a thin yeti robot zombie and a fat yeti robot zombie here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to fat", "response": "You have no idea about how to communicate with a yeti robot zombie.\n\nThe yeti robot zombies roar. Then they try to hit you. You just manage to jump to the side instead of being sliced to small chunks. Then the yeti robot zombies roar some more.\n\nYou hear the hum of the chopper starting up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to phone", "response": "You speak into the phone \"What was I supposed to do?\"\nHansen says \"Upstairs you will find two doors. It doesn't matter which one you take, both will lead to a roof. On each roof there will be a helicopter. Fly it to Drammen.\"\n\nWhile roaring, the yeti robot zombies continue to try and hit you with their claws. You realize they are going to succeed real soon. BETTER DO SOMETHING!\n\nYou hear the hum of the chopper starting up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot fat", "response": "\"I'll show you how to lose some weight, REAL QUICK!\" you shout. A plasma beam evaporates the fat yeti robot zombie. Four shots left.\n\nThe thin yeti robot zombie roars.\n\nYou hear the hum of the chopper starting up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot thin", "response": "\"You found the wrong guy to mess with!\" you say. A plasma beam evaporates the thin yeti robot zombie. Three shots left.\n\nAfter waiting a while the chopper takes off.\n\nA couple of hours later you speak into the phone: \"Ok, I am now flying over Drammen.\"\n\"You are doing great. The headquarters of the evil boss is in a new building. It's the tallest one in Drammen, close to the middle of the city. Can you see it?\"\n\"Yes.\"\n\nIt must be over a hundred stories tall, and it easily dwarfs any of the other buildings. On the sides it has huge neon pentagrams. On the roof is a 30-meter tall statue of a yeti robot zombie.\n\n\"Be careful.\" says General Hansen. \"There are rumors that the closest servants of the evil boss are a group of Satanists!\"\n\"Holy crap!\"\n\"Indeed. They are very deadly in combat. And don't think for a minute that you can reason with them. They are at least as dangerous as the yeti robot zombies.\"\n\"Understood.\"\n\nYou fly closer to the building. You notice that the eyes of the statue of the yeti robot zombie are moving. They are following your chopper!\n\nThe statues mouth opens. A rocket shoots out, straight towards you! You steer the chopper down. You avoid a full hit. Instead the rocket explodes against the propeller. The chopper is going down fast!\n\nFrantically, you steer the chopper towards the building. It smashes into, and goes halfway through, the roof! The impact makes the chopper door open, and you fall out! You land painfully on the floor below.\n\nGroaning, you slowly get up. You look around.\n\nYou are on the west side of large black hall. Above you the chopper is sticking halfway through the ceiling. You can go east.\n\nOn the east side of the hall you can see the following:\nA large red metal barrel stands on the floor. On it is written, in large black letters: \"DANGER! HIGHLY EXPLOSIVE!\" A yeti robot zombie stands on one side of the barrel, a man on the other. He is wearing a hooded brown robe, which conceals his face. For some reason the yeti robot zombie shows no sign of wanting to attack the man. A doorway leads north.\n\nThe man says \"Ah, excellent. Another sacrifice to our master. But first a prayer.\" He begins to mutter something in Latin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have a plasma rifle (with three shots left) and a cell phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are on the west side of large black hall. Above you the chopper is sticking halfway through the ceiling. You can go east.\n\nOn the east side of the hall you can see the following:\nA large red metal barrel stands on the floor. On it is written, in large black letters: \"DANGER! HIGHLY EXPLOSIVE!\" A yeti robot zombie stands on one side of the barrel, a man on the other. He is wearing a hooded brown robe, which conceals his face. For some reason the yeti robot zombie shows no sign of wanting to attack the man. A doorway leads north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "Nothing practical results from your prayer.\n\nThe man continues to mutter something in Latin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot barrel", "response": "\"I love me some good fireworks!\" you shout. The plasma beam hits the barrel and the barrel explodes. The man and the yeti robot zombie get thrown through the air in opposite directions. Both smash into a wall. Sparks start shooting out from all over the body of the yeti robot zombie, and then it explodes into nothing. The man slides down on the floor, dead. Two shots left.\n\nHappily you speak into the phone \"Hey general Hansen! I just killed my fist human!\"\n\"I am proud of you, boy. When I argh. Blahaghr. Grablahaharghragghrablagragh. Glb.\"\n\"General Hansen? GENERAL HANSEN?!\"\nThere is no answer. You realize he has bled to death. You look up and shout in anger: \"CURSE YOU EVIL BOSS!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the robe", "response": "You are too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are on the east side of a large black hall. You can go west. A doorway leads north. The corpse of a man lies on the floor. He is wearing a hooded brown robe, which conceals his face.\n\nOn the west side of the hall you can see the following:\nThe chopper is sticking halfway through the ceiling.\n\nSuddenly you hear humming from the north. After a while you recognize the tune. It's a Metallica song! That means there must be another Satanist through the north doorway!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the robe", "response": "You take the robe. The dead guy doesn't look familiar.\n\nYou hear more satanic humming from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the robe", "response": "You put on the brown robe. Your face is hidden in the shadow of the hood.\n\nYou hear more satanic humming from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A man stands here. He is wearing a black robe, without a hood. He has tall white hair. Doorways lead south and north.\n\nThe man nods at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A man sits behind a desk, on one of them office chairs with little wheels. He is wearing a suit and a tie. He must be the boss! A steaming cup of coffee stands on the desk. A heavy-looking bookshelf stands against a wall, close to the desk. The shelf reaches almost to the ceiling. It is filled with old, black tomes. Directly behind the man is a large window going from floor to ceiling. Outside is Drammen. A doorway leads south.\n\nThe man says \"First of all, do not think for a moment that your disguise will work against me. Secondly, welcome to my humble abode.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the coffee on him", "response": "\"You should be careful; coffee can be DANGEROUS TO YOUR HEALTH!\" you shout grabbing the scalding coffee and throwing it at the man's head. Screaming he clutches at his face. He stands up, and stumbles backwards. He hits the window. It breaks and he falls through. You run over to the window and look down. The man is screaming and falling downwards in slow motion. He lands with a wet thud against the pavement.\n\n\"He is dead.\" you think.\n\nThe body transforms. The horns grow longer, tentacles shoots out from its head, and his shoes and pants burst as his legs grow huge and round like the legs of an elephant. He uses his tentacles to climb up the wall; they must have suckers on them. Soon he is at the window. He has to bend his head forward to get through, his horns are so long. He no longer looks remotely human. The boss sits down on his chair behind the desk.\n\nA tentacle shoots out and grabs the empty cup from your hand. The tentacle crumbles the cup and throws it out the window.\n\nThe man says \"I will enjoy killing such a worthy opponent.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "A man sits behind a desk, on one of them office chairs with little wheels. He is wearing a suit and a tie. He must be the boss! He has green skin, long horns and long claws. Also: elephant legs and tentacles. Directly behind the man is a large broken window going from floor to ceiling. Outside is Drammen. A doorway leads south.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You walk down, manage to sneak past a few Satanists and you are out.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Slice of life" ]

[ "animal protagonist", "built-in hints", "cat", "cover art", "IF Competition 1999", "IFComp Game", "nature", "nonhuman protagonist", "outdoor", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 1999" ]

[ 3, 11, 11, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Ever since the Provider's sickness began, he's been all hisses and growls. Even the slightest misstep annoys him. Maybe that's why your bowl has held nothing but hard food lately. And not much of that.\n\nYou awaken to a faint twitter. Perhaps a trick of the rising light, you pinpoint a fluttering shape. Your quickened breath frosts the window pane, the dawn promising no ordinary day.\n\nOpposite a billowy wall, a window looks east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You hear snoring to the west.\n\nTo the east, a shape flutters out of view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You bump your nose on the glass.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\n\nYour stomach growls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You carry nothing between your teeth. You are also quite hungry, and your dark fur is well-groomed.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paw glass", "response": "You feel nothing unexpected.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You mew loudly, plaintively.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hiss", "response": "You growl and hiss, but to no avail.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Opposite a billowy wall, a window looks east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You nose your way under the billowy wall...\n\nYou enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds, though when the Provider is here, you do so with care. He is mean enough when un-provoked, and does not appreciate being woken. A cord hangs beside a billowy wall to the east. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You mew loudly, plaintively.\n\nThe Provider grumbles as he rises from the blankets and seizes you by the scruff of the neck. Moments later, you find yourself tumbling head over heels into a bank of snow. You hear the latch click inside the cottage, knowing you've been sentenced to a day in the cold--hardly bearable without even the hope of soft food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine Provider", "response": "The Provider lies asleep on his side. He faces east, snorfling loudly.\n\nYour stomach growls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cord", "response": "You tentatively paw at the cord, then reconsider. Idle play this close to the Provider may have serious consequences. [You have been warned.]\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play with the cord", "response": "With a deft swat of your paw, you tug on the cord. The billowy wall parts, and a stream of sunlight illuminates the blankets below. His face bathed in light, the Provider blinks and stirs. He notices you standing suspiciously beside the swaying cord.\n\nThe Provider grumbles as he rises from the blankets and seizes you by the scruff of the neck. Moments later, you find yourself tumbling head over heels into a bank of snow. You hear the latch click inside the cottage, knowing you've been sentenced to a day in the cold--hardly bearable without even the hope of soft food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You leap up onto the ledge.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Food Room (on the ledge)\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cupboard", "response": "You might be able to open the cupboard above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You pry open the cupboard with your paw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search it", "response": "You might be able to enter the cupboard above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter it", "response": "You leap up into the cupboard...\n\nFood Room (in the cupboard)\nWithin the close, heavy shadows, it's difficult to separate the commingled scents. Most of the arranged boxes appear to contain a Provider version of hard food. Indeed, your very own monstrous sack of hard food stands nearby.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite bag", "response": "You scratch futilely at the monstrous sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "The sack is too tightly bound.\n\nYour stomach gurgles and groans.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sack", "response": "The monstrous sack contains a seemlingly limitless supply of hard food.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You leap down from the cupboard to the ledge.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Food Room (on the ledge)\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lick yourself", "response": "That's out of reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You groom", "response": "What do you want to groom?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Your insides feel quite hollow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the whiskers", "response": "You've a handsome set of highly sensitive whiskers.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Food Room (on the ledge)\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You leap from the ledge to the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You groom the tail", "response": "You groom yourself until your dark fur has a nice sheen, and your whiskers are grease-free and properly alligned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.\n\nAn orange light rises in the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hunt bird", "response": "Alas. It's high in the sky.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bird", "response": "Its golden feathers and careless chirping make it all but irresistable.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird alights on the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the fence", "response": "The slats are too slippery, the fence too tall.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops along the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide", "response": "You attempt to conceal yourself as best as possible.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops along the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops lightly on the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get bird", "response": "Creeping forward, you attempt to conceal your dark fur in the shadows of the tree stump, but when you leap forward, the yellow-feathered bird easily anticipates you.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird flies off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stump", "response": "An axe is embedded in the stump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the axe", "response": "It makes up for the Provider's lack of sharp claws.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the axe", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sharpen claws", "response": "You sharpen your claws on the tree stump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "You have so far scored 2 out of a possible 100, in 43 turns, earning you the rank of pussyfooter.\n\nThe score is made up as follows:\n\n2 total (out of 100)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sharpen claws", "response": "You sharpen your claws on the tree stump.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide in the hole", "response": "You try hiding near the hole, but you feel as exposed as ever.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the hole", "response": "You get into the hole.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide", "response": "You attempt to conceal yourself as best as possible.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird alights on the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "Ever since the Provider's sickness began, he's been all hisses and growls. Even the slightest misstep annoys him. Maybe that's why your bowl has held nothing but hard food lately. And not much of that.\n\nYou awaken to a faint twitter. Perhaps a trick of the rising light, you pinpoint a fluttering shape. Your quickened breath frosts the window pane, the dawn promising no ordinary day.\n\nOpposite a billowy wall, a window looks east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide", "response": "You attempt to conceal yourself as best as possible.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops along the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bird", "response": "Its golden feathers and careless chirping make it all but irresistable.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird glides nimbly to the snowy ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bird", "response": "Its golden feathers and careless chirping make it all but irresistable.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops lightly on the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bird", "response": "Its golden feathers and careless chirping make it all but irresistable.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird pecks at the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bird", "response": "Its golden feathers and careless chirping make it all but irresistable.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird flies off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Charcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a pile of pale ash here.\n\nYour stomach gurgles and groans.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ash", "response": "The pile of light grey ash is fine and powdery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll in ash", "response": "You roll in the pile of ash, transforming your dark coat into a pale, light grey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "On the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the hole", "response": "You get into the hole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide", "response": "You attempt to conceal yourself as best as possible.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird alights on the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops along the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops along the fence.\n\nYour insides feel quite hollow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird glides nimbly to the snowy ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops lightly on the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird pecks at the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bird", "response": "You creep forward, your ashen coat providing perfect camouflage against the snow. You're nearly upon the yellow-feathered bird when he cocks a jittering eye. You leap with all your heart as he takes flight, one claw finding its mark. But in a flurry of golden feathers, he soars out of reach and is gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "You have so far scored 8 out of a possible 100, in 29 turns, earning you the rank of pussyfooter.\n\nThe score is made up as follows:\n\n6 hunting a bird (and nearly being successful)\n\n8 total (out of 100)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the feather", "response": "You gingerly pick up the yellow feather with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the feather", "response": "It's your only prize from an arduous hunt. You thank your whiskers you've got a Provider.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You groom", "response": "What do you want to groom?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yourself", "response": "You groom yourself until your dark fur has a nice sheen, and your whiskers are grease-free and properly alligned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The Provider snores beside you.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tickle Provider with feather", "response": "You tickle the Provider with the feather.\n\nThe Provider sighs heavily and rolls over. Facing west, he resumes his snoring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tickle Provider with feather", "response": "You tickle the Provider with the feather.\n\nThe Provider sighs heavily and rolls over. Facing east, he resumes his snoring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blankets", "response": "The warm shadows under the blankets are inviting.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tickle Provider", "response": "You tickle the Provider.\n\nThe Provider stirs and sighs heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cord", "response": "With a deft swat of your paw, you tug on the cord. The billowy wall parts, and a stream of sunlight illuminates the blankets below. Fortunately, the Provider is facing away from the light.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "You have so far scored 14 out of a possible 100, in 44 turns, earning you the rank of mouser.\n\nThe score is made up as follows:\n\n6 hunting a bird (and nearly being successful)\n2 safely opening the blinds\n4 finding sundry items\n\n14 total (out of 100)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the blankets", "response": "The warm shadows under the blankets are inviting.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "From the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "You insert a paw into the gap, but can't get enough leverage.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the landscape", "response": "Just beyond the window is a cluster of aspens. Below, a stream rushes through the grove.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "A slight breeze flows through a gap beneath the window.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gap", "response": "Judging by your whiskers, there's no way through the gap.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bowl", "response": "Checking your food bowl is your greatest pastime. On rare days, it contains soft food--dreamy blends of salmon and turkey giblets, chicken livers and beef, that the Provider scoops from flat, shiny eggs. More often, it contains hard food--dry, drab stuff from a monstrous sack. Unfortunately, your bowl is utterly empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You leap up onto the lumpy mountain...\n\nThere is just enough room in this cozy corner for the lumpy mountain and the confusing black box that faces it. The lumpy mountain is home to some of your finest claw and scratch marks, though your Provider has never shared much enthusiasm for the art. The scent of your food bowl wafts in from the west.\n\nYou can see a flannel shirt here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shirt", "response": "A bit smelly, perhaps, but you love to nap in its soft folds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Two silvery antenae extend from this peculiar animal.\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the shirt", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shirt", "response": "(first dropping the yellow feather)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the flannel shirt with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat shirt", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the shirt", "response": "You can only get into something freestanding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the shirt", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the shirt", "response": "You get onto the flannel shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You'll have to get off the flannel shirt first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scratch shirt", "response": "You get off the flannel shirt.\n\nThere is just enough room in this cozy corner for the lumpy mountain and the confusing black box that faces it. The lumpy mountain is home to some of your finest claw and scratch marks, though your Provider has never shared much enthusiasm for the art. The scent of your food bowl wafts in from the west.\n\nYou can see a flannel shirt and a yellow feather here.\n\nYou're not going to be able to carry on without food.\n\nViolence isn't the answer to this one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "You leap up onto the ledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "You pry open the cupboard with your paw.\n\nYour hunger has become unbearable. With your last remaining energy you curl up to sleep. When you awake, night has fallen. You set out in search of the Provider, hoping for his kindness. If that fails, there are always insects.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Charcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a pile of pale ash here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You carry nothing between your teeth. You are also quite hungry, and covered in pale ash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "You have so far scored 2 out of a possible 100, in 19 turns, earning you the rank of pussyfooter.\n\nThe score is made up as follows:\n\n2 total (out of 100)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "On the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "You leap up onto the ledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "You pry open the cupboard with your paw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter it", "response": "You leap up into the cupboard...\n\nFood Room (in the cupboard)\nWithin the close, heavy shadows, it's difficult to separate the commingled scents. Most of the arranged boxes appear to contain a Provider version of hard food. Indeed, your very own monstrous sack of hard food stands nearby.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sack", "response": "The monstrous sack contains a seemlingly limitless supply of hard food.\n\nYour insides feel quite hollow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the sack", "response": "The sack is too tightly bound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the sack", "response": "Cutting that up would achieve little.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Food Room (in the cupboard)\nWithin the close, heavy shadows, it's difficult to separate the commingled scents. Most of the arranged boxes appear to contain a Provider version of hard food. Indeed, your very own monstrous sack of hard food stands nearby.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You'll have to get off the ledge first.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You leap from the ledge to the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A slatted fence bars your way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops fence", "response": "You can see through gaps in this slatted fence, even insert a paw or two, but your acute sense of spacial intuition tells you there's no way over or through it.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the fence", "response": "Beyond the fence is a neighboring farmhouse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow balloon", "response": "(first taking the red balloon)\nThe red balloon is up in the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "There are too few branches to climb very far up. Tearing away a piece of bark, you leap back to the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird alights on the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird hops along the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.\n\nYou can also see a sizable piece of bark here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stream", "response": "The stream is swift. And cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bark", "response": "It's shaggy, thin, and still intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nA rotting log lies half-exposed in the snow.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the log", "response": "The rotting log is roughly the size of the Provider's leg. A few insects appear to be buzzing nearby.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the insect", "response": "Ouch!\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird alights on the snowy maw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird chirps atop the snowy maw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.\n\nYou can also see a sizable piece of bark here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink stream", "response": "You can tell from here that the stream is too cold to even make the attempt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nA yellow-feathered bird flies high above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.\n\nYou can also see a sizable piece of bark here.\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.\n\nYou can also see a sizable piece of bark here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nA rotting log lies half-exposed in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You wander north a ways before turning back.\n\nTo the south, a glinting beast comes into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "You scramble up a chestnut tree.\n\nBelow, the glinting beast roars onward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the chestnut", "response": "That's plainly inedible.\n\nBelow, the glinting beast whizzes out of view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chestnut", "response": "Chestnut trees border the trail.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You leap down off the chestnut tree.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the north.\n\nYou're not going to be able to carry on without food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You wander south a ways before turning back.\n\nTo the north, a glinting beast comes into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The way is slippery and steep. You slide back onto the trail.\n\nThe glinting beast bears down on you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nA rotting log lies half-exposed in the snow.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird pecks at the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scratch log", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird flies off to the north.\n\nYour hunger has become unbearable. With your last remaining energy you curl up to sleep. When you awake, night has fallen. You set out in search of the Provider, hoping for his kindness. If that fails, there are always insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You carry nothing between your teeth. You are also quite hungry, and covered in pale ash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "On the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe yellow-feathered bird alights on the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds, though when the Provider is here, you do so with care. He is mean enough when un-provoked, and does not appreciate being woken. A cord hangs beside a billowy wall to the east. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "There are too few branches to climb very far up. Tearing away a piece of bark, you leap back to the ground.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bark", "response": "(first dropping the yellow feather)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the bark with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The cottage window is too high to reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "From the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bark in the gap", "response": "You coax the bark into the gap. Oh, no! It falls through.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window with the bark", "response": "That doesn't seem to be something you can unlock.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the bark", "response": "Dropped.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You leap up onto the lumpy mountain...\n\nThere is just enough room in this cozy corner for the lumpy mountain and the confusing black box that faces it. The lumpy mountain is home to some of your finest claw and scratch marks, though your Provider has never shared much enthusiasm for the art. The scent of your food bowl wafts in from the west.\n\nYou can see a flannel shirt here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get shirt", "response": "You gingerly pick up the flannel shirt with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "From the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.\n\nYou can see a sizable piece of bark here.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shirt in the gap", "response": "That doesn't fit.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the shirt", "response": "Dropped.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on shirt", "response": "You get onto the flannel shirt.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bark in the gap", "response": "You need to be holding the bark before you can put it into something else.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bark", "response": "You gingerly pick up the bark with your teeth.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open gap", "response": "That's not something you can open.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "You insert a paw into the gap, but can't get enough leverage.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bark in the gap", "response": "You coax the bark into the gap. Oh, no! It falls through.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bowl", "response": "You'll have to get off the flannel shirt first.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\nYou'll have to get off the flannel shirt first.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bowl", "response": "You get off the flannel shirt.\n\nFrom the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.\n\nYou can see a flannel shirt here.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\n\nYou enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach. Both you and your Provider know where your bowl is. It's an arrangement that suits you just fine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bowl", "response": "Both you and your Provider know where your bowl is. It's an arrangement that suits you just fine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Charcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a pile of pale ash here.\n\nYou're not going to be able to carry on without food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go chute", "response": "You claw your way up the stone chute...\n\nThe pitched roof of the Provider's cottage affords an excellent view of the surrounding valley. A stream winds through forest to the east and south, while a woodland trail to the west links scattered farmhouses, such as the neighboring one beyond a fence to the north.\n\nThe wind blows south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "The wind blows south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You carry a sizable piece of bark between your teeth. You are also quite hungry, and covered in pale ash.\n\nThe wind blows south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the bark", "response": "That's plainly inedible.\n\nThe wind blows south.\n\nYour hunger has become unbearable. With your last remaining energy you curl up to sleep. When you awake, night has fallen. You set out in search of the Provider, hoping for his kindness. If that fails, there are always insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the aspen", "response": "Slender, silvery aspens climb straight toward the sky. Caught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break branch", "response": "You sharpen your claws on the trunk of a tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get log", "response": "The log has rotted away much of its weight. It's still too heavy to lift, but you might be able to get it rolling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log", "response": "You roll the log over. It's humming with insects.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the insects", "response": "The rotting log is roughly the size of the Provider's leg. Buzzing insects are swarming around it!\n\nOuch!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the insects", "response": "You are unable to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the insect", "response": "Ouch!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log", "response": "You roll the log over. It's humming with insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log east", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\nYou can't, since the huge door is in the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The huge door seems relatively featureless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the maw", "response": "Inside the snowy maw is a huge door.\n\nInside the snowy maw is a huge door.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the hole", "response": "You get into the hole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You'll have to get out of the hole first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the hole.\n\nTo the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) and a buzzing log here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log west", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\n\nA north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log east", "response": "You can't even go that way!\n\nTo the south, a glinting beast comes into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "You scramble up a chestnut tree, pieces of bark falling beneath you.\n\nBelow, the glinting beast roars onward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nBelow, the glinting beast whizzes out of view.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You leap down off the chestnut tree.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nYou can also see a sizable piece of bark and a buzzing log here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bark", "response": "(first dropping the yellow feather)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the bark with your teeth.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log east", "response": "You can't even go that way!\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You roll the log north", "response": "You can't even go that way!\n\nTo the north, a glinting beast comes into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You wander north a ways before turning back.\n\nThe glinting beast bears down on you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb tree", "response": "You scramble up a chestnut tree.\n\nBelow, the glinting beast whizzes out of view.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You leap down off the chestnut tree.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nYou can also see a sizable piece of bark and a buzzing log here.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You roll the log north", "response": "You can't even go that way!\n\nYou stand frozen in the middle of the trail. In your final moment, you listen with peculiar detatchment to the roar of the onrushing beast as it swerves to avoid you. Just when you think you might be spared, you're smashed into oblivion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb up", "response": "I don't think much is to be achieved by that.\n\nYou stand frozen in the middle of the trail. In your final moment, you listen with peculiar detatchment to the roar of the onrushing beast as it swerves to avoid you. Just when you think you might be spared, you're smashed into oblivion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log west", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\n\nA north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log north", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log east", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\n\nOverlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stump", "response": "An axe is embedded in the stump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the log in the hole", "response": "You roll the buzzing log into the hole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the axe", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You leap up onto the lumpy mountain...\n\nThere is just enough room in this cozy corner for the lumpy mountain and the confusing black box that faces it. The lumpy mountain is home to some of your finest claw and scratch marks, though your Provider has never shared much enthusiasm for the art. The scent of your food bowl wafts in from the west.\n\nYou can see a flannel shirt here.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The only way out of this corner is toward your food bowl to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scratch provider", "response": "You rake the Provider with your claws!\n\nThe Provider grumbles as he rises from the blankets and seizes you by the scruff of the neck. Moments later, you find yourself tumbling head over heels into a bank of snow. You hear the latch click inside the cottage, knowing you've been sentenced to a day in the cold--hardly bearable without even the hope of soft food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You leap up onto the lumpy mountain...\n\nThere is just enough room in this cozy corner for the lumpy mountain and the confusing black box that faces it. The lumpy mountain is home to some of your finest claw and scratch marks, though your Provider has never shared much enthusiasm for the art. The scent of your food bowl wafts in from the west.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drat", "response": "Quite.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the feather", "response": "(first dropping the flannel shirt)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the yellow feather with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the blankets", "response": "It's warm and snug beaneath the blankets, though you find the Provider's prodigious hind paws to be grotesquely hairless, smelly, and just a bit ticklish when brushed by your whiskers.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine Provider", "response": "The Provider lies asleep on his side. He faces west, snorfling loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tickle Provider with feather", "response": "You tickle the Provider with the feather.\n\nThe Provider sighs heavily and rolls over. Facing east, he resumes his snoring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You nudge your way toward fresher air....\n\nYou enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds, though when the Provider is here, you do so with care. He is mean enough when un-provoked, and does not appreciate being woken. A cord hangs beside a billowy wall to the east. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cord", "response": "The long, thin cord hangs lifelessly above the blankets.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.\n\nYou're not going to be able to carry on without food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cord", "response": "You tentatively paw at the cord, then reconsider. Idle play this close to the Provider may have serious consequences. [You have been warned.]\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the blankets", "response": "It's warm and snug beaneath the blankets, though you find the Provider's prodigious hind paws to be grotesquely hairless, smelly, and just a bit ticklish when brushed by your whiskers.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.\n\nYour hunger has become unbearable. With your last remaining energy you curl up to sleep. When you awake, night has fallen. You set out in search of the Provider, hoping for his kindness. If that fails, there are always insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close window", "response": "The window won't budge.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine gap", "response": "Judging by your whiskers, there's no way through the gap.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tickle Provider with feather", "response": "You tickle the Provider with the feather.\n\nThe Provider sighs heavily and rolls over. Facing east, his face is bathed in streaming light. He notices you nearby, a feather hanging suspiciously from your mouth.\n\nThe Provider grumbles as he rises from the blankets and seizes you by the scruff of the neck. Moments later, you find yourself tumbling head over heels into a bank of snow. You hear the latch click inside the cottage, knowing you've been sentenced to a day in the cold--hardly bearable without even the hope of soft food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You mew loudly, plaintively.\n\nThe Provider grumbles as he rises from the blankets and seizes you by the scruff of the neck. Moments later, you find yourself tumbling head over heels into a bank of snow. You hear the latch click inside the cottage, knowing you've been sentenced to a day in the cold--hardly bearable without even the hope of soft food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Two silvery antenae extend from this peculiar animal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shirt", "response": "(first dropping the yellow feather)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the flannel shirt with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mountain", "response": "Ah, you could loll here all day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shirt in the gap", "response": "That doesn't fit.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gap", "response": "Judging by your whiskers, there's no way through the gap.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the shirt", "response": "You can't wear that!\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shirt on the window", "response": "Putting things on the window would achieve nothing.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You bump your nose on the glass.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the shirt", "response": "Dropped.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the shirt", "response": "The flannel shirt is already here.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "From the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.\n\nYou can see a flannel shirt here.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open cupboard", "response": "The cupboard is unreachable from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "You leap up onto the ledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "You pry open the cupboard with your paw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cupboard", "response": "You leap up into the cupboard...\n\nFood Room (in the cupboard)\nWithin the close, heavy shadows, it's difficult to separate the commingled scents. Most of the arranged boxes appear to contain a Provider version of hard food. Indeed, your very own monstrous sack of hard food stands nearby.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.\n\nYou can also see a flannel shirt here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You leap up onto the lumpy mountain...\n\nThere is just enough room in this cozy corner for the lumpy mountain and the confusing black box that faces it. The lumpy mountain is home to some of your finest claw and scratch marks, though your Provider has never shared much enthusiasm for the art. The scent of your food bowl wafts in from the west.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.\n\nYou can also see a flannel shirt here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "From the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.\n\nYou hear snoring to the west.\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You mew loudly, plaintively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "You scramble up a large tree, pieces of bark falling beneath you.\n\nYou're not going to be able to carry on without food.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You leap down off the large tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You growl and hiss, but to no avail.\n\nYou encounter a swift-flowing stream. However, there may be a way over an embankment to the southwest.\n\nYour hunger has become unbearable. With your last remaining energy you curl up to sleep. When you awake, night has fallen. You set out in search of the Provider, hoping for his kindness. If that fails, there are always insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roar", "response": "Please give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "(the yellow feather)\nDropped.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You encounter a swift-flowing stream. However, there may be a way over an embankment to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "You better satisfy your hunger before making any extended explorations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nA rotting log lies half-exposed in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log south", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\n\nA shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the log", "response": "Harrassed by a gathering swarm of insects, you cautiously retreat from the log.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "You scramble up a large tree, pieces of bark falling beneath you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bark", "response": "It's shaggy, thin, and still intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bark", "response": "But you're up in the tree!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "You leap down off the large tree.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bark", "response": "You gingerly pick up the bark with your teeth.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nYou can also see a buzzing log here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the blanket", "response": "That's hardly portable.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scratch blanket", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shirt", "response": "(first dropping the bark)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the flannel shirt with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shirt on Provider", "response": "You try to put the flannel shirt over the Provider, but he stirs in his sleep and waves you away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blanket on Provider", "response": "You need to be holding the blankets before you can put it on top of something else.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the blanket", "response": "It's warm and snug beaneath the blankets, though you find the Provider's prodigious hind paws to be grotesquely hairless, smelly, and just a bit ticklish when brushed by your whiskers.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.\n\nYour hunger has become unbearable. With your last remaining energy you curl up to sleep. When you awake, night has fallen. You set out in search of the Provider, hoping for his kindness. If that fails, there are always insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shirt", "response": "(first dropping the yellow feather)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the flannel shirt with your teeth.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cupboard", "response": "The cupboard is currently shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the cupboard", "response": "You lack the dexterity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sack", "response": "You clamp your teeth on the monstrous sack, but it's too heavy to lift.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat sack", "response": "That's plainly inedible.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You'll have to get out of the cupboard first.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You examine the ledge", "response": "On the ledge beneath the cupboard, the Provider often creates food. You're not supposed to be here, but who will it hurt if you nose around a little?\n\nYou're beginning to feel dizzy.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You leap from the ledge to the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shirt", "response": "You gingerly pick up the flannel shirt with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Food Room (in the cupboard)\nWithin the close, heavy shadows, it's difficult to separate the commingled scents. Most of the arranged boxes appear to contain a Provider version of hard food. Indeed, your very own monstrous sack of hard food stands nearby.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.\n\nIn the cupboard you can see a flannel shirt.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You leap from the ledge to the floor.\n\nYou're not going to be able to carry on without food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "(the flannel shirt)\nDropped.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.\n\nYour hunger has become unbearable. With your last remaining energy you curl up to sleep. When you awake, night has fallen. You set out in search of the Provider, hoping for his kindness. If that fails, there are always insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tickle paws", "response": "Which do you mean, the claws or the Provider's hind paws?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hind", "response": "You tickle the Provider's hind paws.\n\nThe Provider stirs and sighs heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine Provider", "response": "The Provider lies asleep on his side. He faces west, snorfling loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "You nudge your way toward fresher air....\n\nYou enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nThe Provider snores beside you.\n\nYou're starving!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tickle hind with feather", "response": "You tickle the Provider's hind paws with the feather.\n\nThe Provider sighs heavily and rolls over. Facing east, he grumbles and moans. The world around you heaves as he hauls his hind paws out from under the blanket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "But you aren't in anything at the moment.\n\nThe Provider sits on the bed, yawning and scratching his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, as bare and empty as your stomach.\n\nThe Provider grumbles at you. You're not sure if this is because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider taps you on the nose, knocking the yellow feather from your mouth.\n\nYour stomach aches with hunger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider is preparing food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "Staring mournfully into your food bowl, you mew. The Provider glances at your empty bowl, grumbles, and fills it from a sack of hard food, which he returns to the cupboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Food", "response": "(the morsel of hard food)\nThe hard food looks and smells like a piece of clay soaked in chicken grease.\n\nThe Provider heads toward the Lumpy Mountain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat Food", "response": "It's filling, but so is sawdust. If you could only get your paws on some soft food!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "You have so far scored 26 out of a possible 100, in 54 turns, earning you the rank of domestic.\n\nThe score is made up as follows:\n\n6 hunting a bird (and nearly being successful)\n2 safely opening the blinds\n8 waking the Provider unawares\n4 eating hard food\n4 finding sundry items\n\n26 total (out of 100)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe sun rises ever higher in the eastern sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.\n\nThere are too few branches to climb very far up. Tearing away a piece of bark, you leap back to the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bark", "response": "You gingerly pick up the bark with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nYour Rival leaps down from an ancient elm!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Rival", "response": "Your Rival has a thick coat, huge frame, slavering fangs, and claws like eagle's talons. In short, you're no match for your Rival in size or ferocity.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Growl", "response": "You growl and hiss, but to no avail.\n\nYour Rival charges, grazing you with his claws!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You scramble up a large tree.\n\nYour Rival waits for you at bottom of the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour Rival waits for you at bottom of the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You mew loudly, plaintively.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Aspens.\n\nYour Rival waits for you at bottom of the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.\n\nYour Rival waits for you at bottom of the tree.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You leap down off the large tree.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.\n\nYour Rival charges, grazing you with his claws!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Rival", "response": "With one huge paw, he bats you aside like a fly.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.\n\nYou falter in the face of your Rival's ferocious charge. He pins you to the ground, mauling your face and underbelly. You struggle, but are helpless beneath him. You're dimly aware of him as he saunters away, leaving you for dead in the reddening snow. You only hope you freeze to death before the vermin and insects arrive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The Provider's cottage is that way, but you can't enter it from here.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.\n\nYou falter in the face of your Rival's ferocious charge. He pins you to the ground, mauling your face and underbelly. You struggle, but are helpless beneath him. You're dimly aware of him as he saunters away, leaving you for dead in the reddening snow. You only hope you freeze to death before the vermin and insects arrive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Aspens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nYour Rival enters through the flap!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Charcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a pile of pale ash here.\n\nLooking back, you notice your Rival slavering over your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scratch rival", "response": "With one huge paw, he bats you aside like a fly.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Growl", "response": "You growl and hiss, but to no avail.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nLooking back, you notice your Rival slavering over your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "Your Rival arrives from the Aspens, interrupting your explorations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You encounter a swift-flowing stream. However, there may be a way over an embankment to the southwest.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The Provider's cottage is that way, but you can't enter it from here.\n\nYour Rival charges, grazing you with his claws!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nA rotting log lies half-exposed in the snow.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Rival's Wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nLooking back, you notice your Rival has abandoned the chase.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nA rotting log lies half-exposed in the snow.\n\nYour Rival crouches in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log north", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe Provider cries out as he squashes an insect against his arm.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Snowy Maw.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider growls at you. You're not sure if this is because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.\n\nYour Rival walks casually around the snow hole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the fence", "response": "Beyond the fence is a neighboring farmhouse. Nearby, a boy plays in the snow.\n\nThe Provider taps you on the nose, knocking the bark from your mouth.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nYour Rival charges, grazing you with his claws!\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nYour Rival enters through the flap!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Clearing.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider kicks at your Rival, who reluctantly retreats through the flap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider glares at you. You're not sure if this is because you failed to defend your food bowl, because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider siezes you in his giant paws, and hurls you toward the Clearing...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log, a pile of wood and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pile", "response": "There's an assortment of limbs and spintery wedges of aspen, oak, and elm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pile", "response": "You pick out a freshly hewn strip of kindling.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the kindling", "response": "This solid spear of kindling would burn readily in a hot fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider growls at you. You're not sure if this is because you stole a strip of kindling, because you tracked snow into the cottage, because you failed to defend your food bowl, because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider siezes you in his giant paws, and hurls you toward the Blankets...\n\nYou enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider heads toward the Lumpy Mountain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log, a pile of wood and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb fence", "response": "The slats are too slippery, the fence too tall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You leap up onto the lumpy mountain...\n\nThere is just enough room in this cozy corner for the lumpy mountain and the confusing black box that faces it. The lumpy mountain is home to some of your finest claw and scratch marks, though your Provider has never shared much enthusiasm for the art. The scent of your food bowl wafts in from the west.\n\nYou can see a flannel shirt here.\n\nThe Provider lies here, gazing into the confusing box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider heads toward the Food Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider is fumbling with the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Food", "response": "(first dropping the kindling)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the morsel of hard food with your teeth.\n\nThe Provider heads toward the Clearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get kindling", "response": "(first dropping the morsel of hard food)\nPerhaps some unfortunate critter will enjoy it more than you.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the kindling with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a morsel of hard food and a yellow feather here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "From the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the kindling in gap", "response": "You wedge the kindling into the gap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "From the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape. Although the window's light warms you, a cold breeze emanates from its base.\n\nWedged into a gap beneath the window is a piece of kindling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window with the kindling", "response": "(first taking the kindling)\nThat doesn't seem to be something you can unlock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump on the kindling", "response": "You step cautiously onto the kindling. It creaks and bends under your weight, raising the window. Suddenly, the kindling pulls free, and you tumble westward...\n\nYou enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nYou can see a strip of kindling here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "From the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape.\n\nA stiff breeze rushes through the open window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You leap for the nearest aspen...\n\nAspens (on the aspen)\nThe sky never seemed so vast, the wind so angry, the ground so remote. Facing upwards, you cling with all four claws to a slender trunk. West of you, the winds whistles through an open window. Water rushes far below, but you can hardly bear to look.\n\nCaught in the branches of an aspen, is a red balloon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the balloon", "response": "A string dangles from an obviously buoyant balloon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the string", "response": "The balloon dances in the air as you snare its string in your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "You have so far scored 30 out of a possible 100, in 121 turns, earning you the rank of domestic.\n\nThe score is made up as follows:\n\n6 hunting a bird (and nearly being successful)\n2 safely opening the blinds\n8 waking the Provider unawares\n4 eating hard food\n8 finding sundry items\n\n30 total (out of 100)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You leap for the window, catching the sill with your claws...\n\nFrom the inner sill of a window, you look east over a snowy landscape.\n\nA stiff breeze rushes through the open window.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nYou can see a strip of kindling here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You carry a red balloon, its string between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "(the red balloon)\nThe balloon floats up to the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nHovering against the ceiling is a red balloon.\n\nYou can also see a strip of kindling here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You carry nothing between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nYour Rival crouches in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "It's not so easy to traipse past your Rival.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a morsel of hard food and a yellow feather here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe Provider is resting on the stump.\n\nOverlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nYour Rival crouches in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You carry a red balloon, its string between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the balloon", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nYour Rival charges, grazing you with his claws!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the balloon", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nYou falter in the face of your Rival's ferocious charge. He pins you to the ground, mauling your face and underbelly. You struggle, but are helpless beneath him. You're dimly aware of him as he saunters away, leaving you for dead in the reddening snow. You only hope you freeze to death before the vermin and insects arrive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Rival's Wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Snowy Maw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The Provider's cottage is that way, but you can't enter it from here.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nLooking back, you notice your Rival has abandoned the chase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You squeeze the balloon through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a morsel of hard food and a yellow feather here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Food", "response": "(first dropping the red balloon)\nThe balloon floats up to the ceiling.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the morsel of hard food with your teeth.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Lumpy Mountain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop Food", "response": "Perhaps some unfortunate critter will enjoy it more than you.\n\nYour Rival notices the hard food morsel, and swallows it whole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Food to Rival", "response": "He snatches the morsel from you, and swallows it whole.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You encounter a swift-flowing stream. However, there may be a way over an embankment to the southwest.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Aspens.\n\nYour Rival charges, grazing you with his claws!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "The Provider grunts at you. You're not sure if this is because you stole a strip of kindling, because you tracked snow into the cottage, because you failed to defend your food bowl, because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.\n\nYou falter in the face of your Rival's ferocious charge. He pins you to the ground, mauling your face and underbelly. You struggle, but are helpless beneath him. You're dimly aware of him as he saunters away, leaving you for dead in the reddening snow. You only hope you freeze to death before the vermin and insects arrive.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.\n\nYou falter in the face of your Rival's ferocious charge. He pins you to the ground, mauling your face and underbelly. You struggle, but are helpless beneath him. You're dimly aware of him as he saunters away, leaving you for dead in the reddening snow. You only hope you freeze to death before the vermin and insects arrive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the balloon", "response": "The balloon floats up to the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a morsel of hard food and a yellow feather here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Food", "response": "You gingerly pick up the morsel of hard food with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You carry a morsel of hard food between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider heads toward the Lumpy Mountain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave food", "response": "You look ridiculous waving the morsel of hard food.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the morsel", "response": "Perhaps some unfortunate critter will enjoy it more than you.\n\nTo the north, a glinting beast comes into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe glinting beast bears down on you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "You scramble up a chestnut tree.\n\nBelow, the glinting beast whizzes out of view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take morsel", "response": "You gingerly pick up the morsel of hard food with your teeth.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Aspens.\n\nYour Rival crouches in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop morsel", "response": "Perhaps some unfortunate critter will enjoy it more than you.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.\n\nYour Rival notices the hard food morsel, and swallows it whole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "It's not so easy to traipse past your Rival.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival makes his home. You can't help hunching your shoulders, and bracing for a sudden attack.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.\n\nYour Rival charges, grazing you with his claws!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Rival's Wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nLooking back, you notice your Rival has abandoned the chase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nYour Rival crouches in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Aspens.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Snowy Maw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nLooking back, you notice your Rival slavering over your food bowl.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You carry nothing between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bark", "response": "You gingerly pick up the bark with your teeth.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Food Room.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You leap up onto the ledge.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cupboard", "response": "The cupboard is currently shut.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "You pry open the cupboard with your paw.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cupboard", "response": "You leap up into the cupboard...\n\nFood Room (in the cupboard)\nWithin the close, heavy shadows, it's difficult to separate the commingled scents. Most of the arranged boxes appear to contain a Provider version of hard food. Indeed, your very own monstrous sack of hard food stands nearby.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You leap down from the cupboard to the ledge.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You'll have to get off the ledge first.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You leap from the ledge to the floor.\n\nYour Rival is eating from your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe Provider heads toward the Food Room.\n\nLooking back, you notice your Rival slavering over your food bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the log", "response": "The log has rotted away much of its weight. It's still too heavy to lift, but you might be able to get it rolling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log east", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\n\nOverlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log sw", "response": "You can't even go that way!\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Aspens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the log to Rival", "response": "(first taking the buzzing log)\nThe log has rotted away much of its weight. It's still too heavy to lift, but you might be able to get it rolling.\n\nYour Rival crouches in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You roll the log rival", "response": "** Run-time error: Rival's Wood (object number 98) has no property <number 0> to read **\nThat's not a direction.\n\nYour Rival growls menacingly. You'd better leave soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a sizable piece of bark, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "(the morsel of hard food)\nPerhaps some unfortunate critter will enjoy it more than you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider is preparing food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nYou can also see a morsel of hard food and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bark on the hole", "response": "You cover the hole with the piece of bark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Food on bark", "response": "You put the morsel of hard food on the bark.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nA sizable piece of bark nearly conceals a hole in the snow. Resting on the bark is a morsel of hard food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the snow on the hole", "response": "But the bark is covering the hole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the snow", "response": "It only melts in your mouth.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nYou can also see a mound of snow here.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Clearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the mound", "response": "(first taking the mound of snow)\nThat's fixed in place.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the snow", "response": "It only melts in your mouth.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You scrape away the mound of snow, revealing the bark.\n\nThe Provider stumbles into the snow hole!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider glares at you. You're not sure if this is because he fell into a snow hole, because you stole a strip of kindling, because you tracked snow into the cottage, because you failed to defend your food bowl, because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood, a buzzing log and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roll log east", "response": "You roll the log in front of you, carefull to avoid the gathering swarm of insects.\n\nOverlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nA sizable piece of bark nearly conceals a hole in the snow. Resting on the bark is a morsel of hard food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Food", "response": "(first dropping the bark)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the morsel of hard food with your teeth.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Rival's Wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Food", "response": "You gingerly pick up the morsel of hard food with your teeth.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bark on the hole", "response": "You cover the hole with the piece of bark.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cover the hole with the bark", "response": "But the bark is covering the hole.\n\nThe Provider heads toward the Clearing.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nA sizable piece of bark nearly conceals a hole in the snow.\n\nYou can also see a buzzing log here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bark", "response": "(first dropping the morsel of hard food)\nPerhaps some unfortunate critter will enjoy it more than you.\n\nYou pick up the bark, revealing the hole in the snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "You have so far scored 30 out of a possible 100, in 166 turns, earning you the rank of domestic.\n\nThe score is made up as follows:\n\n6 hunting a bird (and nearly being successful)\n2 safely opening the blinds\n8 waking the Provider unawares\n4 eating hard food\n8 finding sundry items\n\n30 total (out of 100)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nYou can also see a mound of snow (on which is a morsel of hard food) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour Rival charges, grazing you with his claws!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The Provider's cottage is that way, but you can't enter it from here.\n\nYou falter in the face of your Rival's ferocious charge. He pins you to the ground, mauling your face and underbelly. You struggle, but are helpless beneath him. You're dimly aware of him as he saunters away, leaving you for dead in the reddening snow. You only hope you freeze to death before the vermin and insects arrive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nYou can also see a mound of snow (on which is a morsel of hard food) here.\n\nYour Rival arrives from the Rival's Wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A shadowy, east-west path snakes through a tangle of gnarled oaks and elms. Somewhere in this ancient forest, your Rival once made his home. It's a pleasure to explore it unhindered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "As you climb over the embankment, something scuttles behind a stone.\n\nNestled under a southfacing embankment, there are actually patches of bare sand along this stony beach. The stream runs swiftly past, buffeting ice floes against the shore.\n\nSomething scurries nearby.\n\nThe sun shines high overhead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Growl", "response": "You growl and hiss, but to no avail.\n\nYou detect an earthy draft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The scent of animal life is strongest near a jumble of boulders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "The scent of animal life is strongest near a jumble of boulders.\n\nYou detect an earthy draft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The scent of animal life is strongest near a jumble of boulders.\n\nSomething scurries nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boulders", "response": "Boulders and stones lie jumbled under an overhang. It's difficult to decide which of the innumerable interconnecting nooks and shadows to explore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "Not focussing on anything in particular, the rush of the stream predominates.\n\nSomething scurries nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to boulders", "response": "An earthy draft emanates from somewhere in the shadows.\n\nYou detect an earthy draft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine something", "response": "The shadows beneath the jumble of boulders faintly echo with tiny, pitter-pattering feet.\n\nSomething scurries nearby.\n\nWhatever it was, it's undetectable now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rocks", "response": "The stones are too heavy to carry.\n\nYou detect an earthy draft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell shadows", "response": "You sniff out a dung-scented nook.\n\nSomething scurries nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the nook", "response": "You squeeze into a small opening...\n\nThrough a network of burrows and tiny side-passages, a larger tunnel winds northward. Your whiskers indicate even it may be impassable. The air is scarce, the earth close and unstable. With no room to turn around, perhaps you should just back out the way you came in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The tunnel bends upward. You welcome the plentiful, if musty, air...\n\nBeside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect a sliver of light beneath a huge western door. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the carton", "response": "Numerous cartons, barrels, and other useless containers are haphazardly arranged beneath a high shelf. A wicker basket does, however, catch your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine basket", "response": "It's compact yet capacious, and currently contains a small white box and a jangly ring. You might be able to get your teeth around its sturdy handle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "Its central (and only) feature is a large button.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the handle", "response": "It's compact yet capacious, and currently contains a small white box and a jangly ring. You might be able to get your teeth around its sturdy handle.\n\nAs the huge door opens completely, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases. You notice a glint of light near the bottom of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glint", "response": "Several bolts protrude near the bottom of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bolt", "response": "The protruding bolts are up near the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the box", "response": "You gingerly pick up the small white box with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelf", "response": "Steeped in shadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the handle", "response": "(first dropping the small white box)\nDropped.\n\nClamping down on its handle, you pick up the wicker basket.\n\nAs the huge door comes to a close, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put box in the basket", "response": "You put the small white box into the wicker basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the basket", "response": "Clamping down on its handle, you pick up the wicker basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine beast", "response": "You've heard such beasts rumble, sigh, bleat, and stampede. This one is quiet, and perhaps ill. He appears to be bleeding from his underside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the beast", "response": "You crawl under the beast for a closer look...\n\nShiny, intertwined tubes--presumably his exposed entrails--hang from the underside of the beast. From one of his stomachs, he slowly bleeds.\n\nA pool of clear liquid shimmers on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the liquid", "response": "The pool is slowly fed by the beast's dripping entrails.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "You have so far scored 50 out of a possible 100, in 215 turns, earning you the rank of stalker.\n\nThe score is made up as follows:\n\n6 hunting a bird (and nearly being successful)\n2 safely opening the blinds\n8 waking the Provider unawares\n4 eating hard food\n15 driving off your Rival\n8 finding sundry items\n5 visiting various places\n\n50 total (out of 100)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Shiny, intertwined tubes--presumably his exposed entrails--hang from the underside of the beast. From one of his stomachs, he slowly bleeds.\n\nA pool of clear liquid shimmers on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the underside", "response": "Intertwining tubes connect four rubbery legs to the underside of the beast. His many stomachs are also linked by knots of shiny entrails.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "The beast's entrails are intertwined too tightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You crawl out from under the glinting beast...\n\nBeside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect a sliver of light beneath a huge western door. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelf", "response": "Steeped in shadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine barrel", "response": "Numerous cartons, barrels, and other useless containers are haphazardly arranged beneath a high shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the barrel", "response": "You get onto the cartons.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hold the door", "response": "The huge door is currently out of reach.\n\nAs the huge door opens completely, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases. You notice a glint of light near the bottom of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You carry a wicker basket between your teeth.\nIn the wicker basket are a small white box and a jangly ring.\nYou are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ring", "response": "A dozen or more jagged, silvery leaves jangle on a ring. You find it to be a compelling toy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the door", "response": "The huge door is currently out of reach.\n\nAs the huge door comes to a close, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hang", "response": "What do you want to hang?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yourself", "response": "What do you want to hang yourself on?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Beast's Cave (on the cartons)\nBeside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the sunlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAs the huge door opens completely, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases. You notice a glint of light near the bottom of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAs the huge door comes to a close, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hang the basket on the bolts", "response": "You hang the basket on one of the protruding bolts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAs the huge door opens completely, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases. You notice a glint of light near the bottom of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the basket", "response": "(getting off the cartons)\nYou get into the wicker basket.\n\nIn the wicker basket you can see a jangly ring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops button", "response": "\"Click.\"\nYou hear a low mechanical growl as the huge door begins to slide upward, and bend beneath the ceiling. You are being carried towards the ceiling!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You carry a small white box between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.\n\nAs the huge door opens completely, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases.\n\nCave Ceiling (in the wicker basket)\nSuspended by runners on either side, the huge door lies flat. There's enough space to walk on top of it, although the ceiling is damp and cluttered with cobwebs. To the east, something glimmers on a shadowy shelf.\n\nIn the wicker basket you can see a jangly ring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You'll have to get out of the wicker basket first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "You scramble out of the basket, and up onto the huge door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You leap onto the shelf...\n\nStack upon stack, row upon row, of flat, shiny eggs crowd this dark shelf. The eggs shimmer like magic vessels. You can't help but contemplate their sealed contents.\n\nYou can see a fresh drop of saliva here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the egg", "response": "They're flat on the top and bottom, and round on the sides. You're certain they contain soft food, but not sure how to crack open their cold shells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the egg", "response": "You pick up an egg by clamping on a shiny ring attached to its top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You leap atop the huge door...\n\nSuspended by runners on either side, the huge door lies flat. There's enough space to walk on top of it, although the ceiling is damp and cluttered with cobwebs. To the east, something glimmers on a shadowy shelf.\n\nA wicker basket hangs from the west end of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You run it over with the the car", "response": "That could be dangerous.\n\nYou can't see \"it\" (the wicker basket) at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You spring into the air, and just for the joy of jumping!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the basket", "response": "You get into the wicker basket.\n\nIn the wicker basket you can see a small white box and a jangly ring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the egg", "response": "Whisker and paw! You're not sure how!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the can with ring", "response": "(the jangly ring)\n(first taking the jangly ring)\n(first dropping the flat shiny egg)\nDropped.\n\nThat doesn't seem to be something you can unlock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the box", "response": "(first dropping the jangly ring)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the small white box with your teeth.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You enter the basket", "response": "You get into the wicker basket.\n\nIn the wicker basket you can see a jangly ring and a flat shiny egg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "The motion of the basket knocks you off-balance.\n\nAs the huge door comes to a close, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases.\n\nBeast's Cave (in the wicker basket)\nBeside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect a sliver of light beneath a huge western door. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nIn the wicker basket you can see a jangly ring and a flat shiny egg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the egg", "response": "(first dropping the small white box)\nDropped.\n\nClamping your teeth on its shiny ring, you pick up the egg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You get out of the wicker basket.\n\nBeside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect a sliver of light beneath a huge western door. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nA wicker basket is hooked onto a bolt near the bottom of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the egg", "response": "(first dropping the small white box)\nDropped.\n\nClamping your teeth on its shiny ring, you pick up the egg.\n\nAs the huge door opens completely, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases. You notice a glint of light near the bottom of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the egg in the door", "response": "The huge door is up near the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nA cloud shields the sun in the western sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You carry a flat shiny egg between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe Provider grumbles at you. You're not sure if this is because he spotted you with the shiny egg, because he fell into a snow hole, because you stole a strip of kindling, because you tracked snow into the cottage, because you failed to defend your food bowl, because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nHovering against the ceiling is a red balloon.\n\nYou can also see a strip of kindling here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nYou can also see a hole (in which are a morsel of hard food and a buzzing log) here.\n\nThe Provider is gathering wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give can to Provider", "response": "The Provider seems surprised that you're carrying around the flat shiny egg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "The Provider growls at you. You're not sure if this is because he spotted you with the shiny egg, because he fell into a snow hole, because you stole a strip of kindling, because you tracked snow into the cottage, because you failed to defend your food bowl, because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe Provider arrives from the Aspens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the can on the axe", "response": "Putting things on the axe would achieve nothing.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A slatted fence bars your way.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the can on the stump", "response": "You put the flat shiny egg on the stump.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the egg", "response": "Clamping your teeth on its shiny ring, you pick up the egg.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You hear a boy laughing and frolicking beyond the fence.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the balloon", "response": "(first dropping the flat shiny egg)\nDropped.\n\nThe balloon dances in the air as you snare its string in your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe Provider is resting on the stump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the balloon", "response": "The balloon begins to float away!\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the balloon", "response": "A string dangles from an obviously buoyant balloon.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nThe balloon rises up and away, disappearing to the south.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.\n\nYou hear high-pitched laughter beyond the fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You carry a red balloon, its string between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.\n\nSplinters fly as the Provider splits wood with an axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You squeeze the balloon through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nYou can see a flat shiny egg and a strip of kindling here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the egg", "response": "(first dropping the red balloon)\nThe balloon floats up to the ceiling.\n\nClamping your teeth on its shiny ring, you pick up the egg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the egg to the balloon", "response": "Clumsily, you coax the twig through the shiny ring. After several attempts, the twig pops through and catches hold. The flat shiny egg is now fastened to the balloon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider is bent over the alcove.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You enjoy curling up in the blankets' warm folds. Light streams down through an eastern window. A mingling of faded scents lure you northward.\n\nHovering nearby is a weighted balloon.\n\nYou can also see a strip of kindling here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get balloon", "response": "The balloon dances in the air as you snare its string in your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider is bent over the alcove.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Charcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood here.\n\nThe Provider reaches in from the east, arranging the pile of wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider reaches in from the east, arranging the pile of wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "You claw your way up the stone chute...\n\nThe pitched roof of the Provider's cottage affords an excellent view of the surrounding valley. A stream winds through forest to the east and south, while a woodland trail to the west links scattered farmhouses, such as the neighboring one beyond a fence to the north.\n\nYou can see the boy to the north.\n\nThe wind blows west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou can see the boy to the north.\n\nThe wind blows south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave", "response": "You wave, feeling foolish.\n\nYou can see the boy to the north.\n\nThe wind blows south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You carry a weighted balloon, its string between your teeth. You are also sated (though not satisfied), and covered in pale ash.\n\nYou can see the boy to the north.\n\nThe wind blows west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You mew loudly, plaintively.\n\nYou can see the boy to the north.\n\nThe wind blows north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the balloon", "response": "The wind carries the red balloon north towards the Clearing. The flat shiny egg slowly pulls it earthward. You watch with fascination as the shiny egg clears the fence by the width of your whiskers. A delighted boy runs to capture the descending red balloon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You spring into the air, and just for the joy of jumping!\n\nYou can see the boy to the north.\n\nThe wind blows west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump off the roof", "response": "But you aren't in anything at the moment.\n\nYou can see the boy to the north.\n\nThe wind blows south.\n\nThe sun sets behind a pink cloud in the western sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The roof slopes steeply in every direction.\n\nYou can see the boy to the north.\n\nThe wind blows south.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go down", "response": "You come crashing down the chute into a pile of wood...\n\nCharcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a pile of wood here.\n\nThe Provider grumbles at you. You're not sure if this is because you disrupted his wood pile, because he spotted you with the shiny egg, because he fell into a snow hole, because you stole a strip of kindling, because you tracked snow into the cottage, because you failed to defend your food bowl, because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider lunges after you, then clutches his breast and steadies himself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nWas that a dark shape scuttling in the snow?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider lunges after you, but looks rather whoozy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "The Provider growls at you. You're not sure if this is because you disrupted his wood pile, because he spotted you with the shiny egg, because he fell into a snow hole, because you stole a strip of kindling, because you tracked snow into the cottage, because you failed to defend your food bowl, because you stirred up a swarm of insects, because he suspects you brought a bird into the house, because you mewed excessively, or because you scattered ash everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe Provider lunges after you, only to be overcome by a fit of hacking and wheezing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You bump into a sooty stone wall.\n\nThe Provider reaches in from the east, arranging the pile of wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider is bent over the alcove.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shape", "response": "There's nothing there now, if there ever was.\n\nYou hear a low-pitched growl.\n\nThe sun sets behind a pink cloud in the western sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "Perhaps the growl was only your stomach.\n\nA faint, improbable scent rides the wind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nOn the floor, lies your food bowl, full of hard food.\n\nYou can also see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider is bent over the alcove.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get kindling", "response": "You gingerly pick up the kindling with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nDid a dark shape scuttle behind you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Beside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the sunlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAbove, a wicker basket dangles from the huge door.\n\nYou can see a small white box here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the basket", "response": "The wicker basket is up near the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the car", "response": "You crawl under the beast for a closer look...\n\nShiny, intertwined tubes--presumably his exposed entrails--hang from the underside of the beast. From one of his stomachs, he slowly bleeds.\n\nA pool of clear liquid shimmers on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put kindling in the liquid", "response": "You drop the kindling into the pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You crawl out from under the glinting beast...\n\nBeside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the sunlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAbove, a wicker basket dangles from the huge door.\n\nYou can see a small white box here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nDid a dark shape scuttle behind you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shape", "response": "There's nothing there now, if there ever was.\n\nYou hear a malicious, low-pitched growl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the fence", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nYour nostrils detect that improbable scent again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "That's strange. For a moment you thought you smelled your Rival.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A slatted fence bars your way.\n\nYou hear a malicious, low-pitched growl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Overlooked by a high window of the Provider's cottage, a trail follows a north-south stream through a grove of aspens.\n\nYou can also see a hole (in which are a morsel of hard food and a buzzing log) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You watch the boy through the fence. He runs crazy circles in the snow, tugging the red balloon behind him. With a cry of joy the boy runs toward you. You hear a familiar \"Thuck!\" as he cracks open the shiny egg. Clambering halfway up, the boy is barely able to reach over the fence. Your eyes never leave the open shell of soft food as it falls and lands upright in the snow beside you.\n\nYour nostrils detect that improbable scent again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Food", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat Food", "response": "(first dropping the kindling)\nDropped.\n\nA blend of tuna and chicken livers, your entire consciousness swims in its taste, texture, and smell. You lap up its succulent juices, and slaver down every delectable mouthful. After a moment of complete rapture, you find yourself staring into an empty shell, grease dripping from your whiskers.\n\nSmoke rises from the cottage chimney.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine can", "response": "Alas, it's empty.\n\nSmoke rises from the cottage chimney.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nHearing the flap close behind you, the Provider rises from his newly lit fire, and angrily approaches. You wonder if you've finally driven him insane. As you turn to retreat, both you and your Provider are startled by what emerges through the flap.\n\nFirst, a creature's swollen head pushes through, then its matted, bloodied body. Its eyes burn with hatred as it drags a lame leg through the opening. Thorns and stingers are knotted in its fur, embedded and broken off in numerous sores.\n\nThe Provider shoos the hideous creature toward the flap, but it only growls with increasing resolve. The Provider lunges for the creature, then pauses dreamily as if staring at something distant. He gasps, clutches his breast, and collapses on the floor.\n\nThe creature sniffs your fallen Provider, then closes in on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat provider", "response": "The creature's relentless claws interrupt you.\n\nSprawled on the floor is your Provider.\n\nThe creature rakes you, drawing fresh blood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a strip of kindling, a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe creature follows you.\n\nA thousand stars shimmer in a moonlit sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You watch the boy through the fence. He runs crazy circles in the snow, tugging the red balloon behind him.\n\nThe creature closes in on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get kindling", "response": "The creature's relentless claws interrupt you.\n\nThe creature rakes you, drawing fresh blood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get kindling", "response": "The creature's relentless claws interrupt you.\n\nThe creature closes in on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get kindling", "response": "You gingerly pick up the kindling with your teeth.\n\nSmoke rises from the cottage chimney.\n\nYour nostrils detect that improbable scent again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nHearing the flap close behind you, the Provider rises from his newly lit fire, and angrily approaches. You wonder if you've finally driven him insane. As you turn to retreat, you are so startled by what emerges through the flap that you drop the kindling.\n\nFirst, a creature's swollen head pushes through, then its matted, bloodied body. Its eyes burn with hatred as it drags a lame leg through the opening. Thorns and stingers are knotted in its fur, embedded and broken off in numerous sores.\n\nThe Provider shoos the hideous creature toward the flap, but it only growls with increasing resolve. The Provider lunges for the creature, then pauses dreamily as if staring at something distant. He gasps, clutches his breast, and collapses on the floor.\n\nThe creature sniffs your fallen Provider, then closes in on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Charcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a crackling wood fire here.\n\nThe creature follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine creature", "response": "Its swollen eyes burn with hatred. Though mingled with an otherworldliness, and a stewing putrefaction, its scent is unmistakably your Rival's.\n\nSprawled on the floor is your Provider.\n\nNo match for the creature claw to claw, its relentless attack overwhelms you. You are numbly aware of your belly being lashed open. You smell the monster's putrefying flesh, and the rot of its breath. Its swollen eyes glower for a moment before its jaws close on your throat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe creature follows you.\n\nA thousand stars shimmer in a moonlit sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nThe creature follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nThe creature follows you.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe creature closes in on you.\n\nTo the north, a pair of headlights comes into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe creature rakes you, drawing fresh blood.\n\nThe pair of headlights bears down on you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "You scramble up a chestnut tree, pieces of bark falling beneath you.\n\nBelow, the creature stands frozen in the oncoming headlights. You catch a glint of fear in his swollen, tortured eye as the thundering headlights close in on him, carrying him swiftly and mercifully into oblivion.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You leap down off the chestnut tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYou can see a strip of kindling and a yellow feather here.\n\nSprawled on the floor is your Provider.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get kindling", "response": "You gingerly pick up the kindling with your teeth.\n\nThe Provider gasps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake provider", "response": "But how?\n\nThe Provider gasps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "The Provider hardly stirs.\n\nThe Provider is turning blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nuzzle provider", "response": "You nudge the Provider, but he doesn't stir.\n\nThe Provider is turning blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Charcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a crackling wood fire here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the kindling in the fire", "response": "You put the kindling on the crackling wood fire.\nThe kindling begins to burn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The fire is too hot to risk the climb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider is turning blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light Provider", "response": "There's no obvious fire source.\n\nThe Provider is turning blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the kindling", "response": "The kindling smoulders on one end.\n\nThe Provider is turning blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light Provider with kindling", "response": "The smouldering kindling is not a fire source.\n\nThe Provider is turning blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hit provider", "response": "First you take a tentative bite. Several more bites, and the Provider sleeps on. He's fairly tasty! Over the next few days, you manage to eat most of him. But when the insects arrive you flee to Rival's old wood to hunt fresh game. It's a savage fate for your poor master. But you have to admit that--even to the bitter end--he was always a Provider.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Beside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the moonlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAbove, a wicker basket dangles from the huge door.\n\nYou can see a small white box here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the car", "response": "You crawl under the beast for a closer look...\n\nShiny, intertwined tubes--presumably his exposed entrails--hang from the underside of the beast. From one of his stomachs, he slowly bleeds.\n\nA pool of clear liquid shimmers on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the kindling in the liquid", "response": "You hear a tremendous rush and roar of wind as the flames leap to life. You feel an unbearable heat as you're consumed by the fire. There's nowhere to go, no air to breath, and the flames are all around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You crawl out from under the glinting beast...\n\nBeside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the moonlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAbove, a wicker basket dangles from the huge door.\n\nYou can see a small white box here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the car", "response": "You crawl under the beast for a closer look...\n\nShiny, intertwined tubes--presumably his exposed entrails--hang from the underside of the beast. From one of his stomachs, he slowly bleeds.\n\nA pool of clear liquid shimmers on the floor.\n\nYou can also see a strip of smouldering kindling here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get kindling", "response": "You gingerly pick up the smouldering kindling with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider is turning blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shirt on the fire", "response": "You put the flannel shirt on the crackling wood fire.\nThe flannel shirt begins to burn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shirt", "response": "You retrieve the flannel shirt from the fire. It's a little scorched, but essentially undamaged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You carry a flannel shirt between your teeth. You are also well-fed, and bleeding badly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shirt", "response": "The flannel shirt is engulfed in flame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Here the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider's breath grows faint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Beside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the moonlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAbove, a wicker basket dangles from the huge door.\n\nYou can see a strip of smouldering kindling and a small white box here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shirt in the pool", "response": "The flannel shirt soaks up much of the clear pool's liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shirt", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You crawl out from under the glinting beast...\n\nBeside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the moonlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAbove, a wicker basket dangles from the huge door.\n\nYou can see a strip of smouldering kindling and a small white box here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hang the shirt on the bolts", "response": "The protruding bolts are up near the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shirt", "response": "A bit smelly, perhaps, but you love to nap in its soft folds. The sodden flannel shirt is drenched with a noxious liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nAs the huge door opens completely, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases. You notice a glint of light near the bottom of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Beside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the moonlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAbove, a wicker basket dangles from the huge door.\n\nYou can see a sodden flannel shirt, a strip of smouldering kindling and a small white box here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a sodden flannel shirt, a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shirt", "response": "(first dropping the smouldering kindling)\nDropped.\n\nYou gingerly pick up the sodden flannel shirt with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider's breath grows faint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Charcoal-stained stones form a shadowy alcove that culminates in a chute overhead. The strong smell of smoke is rivalled by more savory scents to the east.\n\nYou can see a crackling wood fire here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shirt on the fire", "response": "You put the sodden flannel shirt on the crackling wood fire.\n\nYou're nearly knocked off your paws by the rush of wind as the sodden flannel shirt ignites. Great greedy tongues of flame reach for the walls and ceiling. You're lucky to escape with only your whiskers singed.\n\nSoon a great mewing beast arrives to fight the flames. It seems that everyone in the valley comes to watch the inferno that was your home. You slink guiltily into the woods, surprised at how deeply you miss your Provider.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wood", "response": "The kindling smoulders on one end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shirt", "response": "You singe you whiskers before you even get close to the fire.\n\nA flaming shirt is ablaze with hungry, high-reaching flames.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nYou can also see a sizable piece of bark here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the shirt", "response": "Dropped.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a strip of smouldering kindling, a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get kindling", "response": "You gingerly pick up the smouldering kindling with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A north-south trail runs beneath a canopy of chestnut trees. You've seen giant glinting beasts stampede here, especially in the mornings and evenings. A lesser track leads east.\n\nYou can also see a sodden flannel shirt and a sizable piece of bark here.\n\nYou hear a distant rumbling approaching from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the kindling on shirt", "response": "The sodden flannel shirt bursts into flame!\n\nTo the south, a pair of headlights comes into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You scramble up a chestnut tree.\n\nA flaming shirt is ablaze with hungry, high-reaching flames.\n\nThe approaching pair of headlights slows down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe flaming shirt is ablaze with hungry, high-reaching flames.\n\nThe headlights cease their approach, and a figure emerges from the darkness.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You leap down off the chestnut tree.\n\nThe flaming shirt burns heartily.\n\nA figure is here, waving around a beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the figure", "response": "The figure wields a beam of light.\n\nThe flaming shirt burns heartily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat figure", "response": "He's plainly inedible.\n\nThe flaming shirt still illuminates the area, but is burning itself out.\n\nA figure is here, waving around a beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit figure", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nThe flaming shirt still illuminates the area, but is burning itself out.\n\nA figure is here, waving around a beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Growl", "response": "You growl and hiss, but to no avail.\n\nThe flaming shirt consumes itself, its ashes scattering into nothing.\n\nA figure is here, waving around a beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "Shining his light on you, the figure bends over, and strokes you behind the ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You wander north a ways before turning back.\n\nThe figure scans the area near you with a beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nThe figure follows you from the Canopy Trail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe figure follows you from the Snowy Maw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYou can see a yellow feather here.\n\nThe Provider's breath grows faint.\n\nSomeone is rattling the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nA tree stump pokes through the otherwise unbroken blanket of soft, powdery snow. A slatted fence traverses the snow to the north, while the cottage entrance lies southward.\n\nYou can see a shiny empty shell and a hole (which is empty) here.\n\nThe figure scans the area near you with a beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nThe figure follows you from the Clearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Beside an open crack in the floor stands a glinting beast, the centerpiece of this dusty vault. Its glassy eyes and shiny skin reflect the moonlight that streams through an opening to the west. Various cartons and barrels are stacked against the opposite wall.\n\nAbove, a wicker basket dangles from the huge door.\n\nYou can see a small white box here.\n\nThe figure follows you from the Snowy Maw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAs the huge door comes to a close, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases.\n\nThe figure scans the area near you with a beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the keys", "response": "You gingerly pick up the jangly ring with your teeth.\n\nThe figure scans the area near you with a beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "To the east, icicles hang like fangs within a giant maw of snow. A large pair of matching tracks lead out of shadows of the snowy mouth and to the west. A path loops north and south.\n\nAs the huge door opens completely, the mechanical growl abruptly ceases.\n\nThe figure follows you from the Beast's Cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the keys to the figure", "response": "The figure accepts the keys.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You duck through the flap in the front door...\n\nHere the Provider divines food from the cupboard's magic containers, and prepares it on the ledge above you like only a Provider can. It seems that all roads lead to your food bowl: there's an alcove to the west, a small flap northward, a lumpy mountain to the east, and a pile of blankets southward.\n\nYour fallen Provider lies oddly still.\n\nAs the figure steps through the door, he turns toward your fallen Provider, and hurries to his side. A short while later, a loud and horrible mewing approaches, and the white-furred ones come to take your Provider away. You're sorry to see him go. He was all hisses and growls, but he was a Provider nonetheless.\n\nYou eventually devour the mountain of hard food, and take to Rival's old wood. As the weeks pass, you hunt with greater relish; in the shadows, or from an overhanging limb, you watch and you wait with heightened senses. One day, having nearly forgotten him, you spy your Provider rolling into the cottage on a shiny stool. He no longer grunts or glares at you; instead, he sits all day on his shiny stool, gazing sadly into the confusing box.\n\nAs winter warms over, the Provider begins to invite you onto his lap for a ride to the aspens, or through the ferns emerging on the forest floor. You hunt the golden-feathered bird and chase new rivals from across the stream. He strokes your fur, even croons to you. During such moments, you do something you haven't done in a long time. You purr.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full", "response": "In that game you scored 100 out of a possible 100, in 501 turns, earning you the rank of contentment.\n\nThe score was made up as follows:\n\n6 hunting a bird (and nearly being successful)\n2 safely opening the blinds\n8 waking the Provider unawares\n4 eating hard food\n15 driving off your Rival\n5 ascending a garage door\n15 eating soft food\n8 leading your Rival to a merciful end\n8 building a beacon in the road\n10 saving your Provider\n12 finding sundry items\n5 visiting various places\n\n100 total (out of 100)\n\nWould you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Adventure" ]

[ "Colossal Cash Prize", "Fallen London", "IFComp 2020", "IFComp Game", "parser", "spoilers", "treasure hunt" ]

[ 1, 7, 4, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "6/12N)\n\nThe rain falls south onto the roof of your home - a pentagon, just\nlike the home of every other shape in the city. On a night like\ntonight, there's nothing you want to do more than sit back and relax\nwith a nice cup of tea.\n\nA small mirror hangs on your wall.\n\non.\n\nYou can also see a mug (in which is some tea) here.\n\nof commands, or type 'ABOUT' to see legal information.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The rain falls south onto the roof of your home - a pentagon, just\nlike the home of every other shape in the city. On a night like\ntonight, there's nothing you want to do more than sit back and relax\nwith a nice cup of tea.\n\nA small mirror hangs on your wall.\n\non.\n\nYou can also see a mug (in which is some tea) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You make acute equilateral triangle, if you do say so yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mirror", "response": "You check yourself out in the mirror. You make acute equilateral\ntriangle, if you do say so yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mug", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the paper", "response": "You never could read in dreams. Despite this, you find yourself\ncompelled to pick up the note and shove it in your pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the tea", "response": "You take a small sip. The tea tastes earthy, and vaguely sweet. You\nhold the warm mug and prepare for a pleasant evening at home.\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]All of a sudden, things begin to shake. You\nfind yourself being tossed back and forth, and you're pretty sure you\nhear your mug shatter. When the shaking subsides, you stagger out from\nthe ruins of your home to find London in complete disorder.\n\nThe great shift that befell London was ten years ago, and everything\nis different now. Hell, devils included, is a real place to the west\nof London, and impossible creatures live and work among ordinary\nshapes. Some believe London went DOWN, to a cavern beneath the earth,\nbut any well regarded citizen knows those are little more than\nrumours.\n\nAfter all, there's no such thing as down.\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]## Your Lodgings\nYou are in your small apartment. It's a cool London morning, and your\nwindows are ever so slightly fogged up. A door is set into the west\nwall of your home.\n\nA spare towel covers a small hand mirror lying in your room. It's been\nsanitized, of course, but one can never be too careful.\n\nIn one corner of the room is an old wooden trophy case.\n\nA rack stands in the corner, brimming with hats.\n\nYou wake up, shivering, the note still heavy in your pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the note", "response": "Greetations,\nSincere apologetics for the intrusion into your dream-world, but\ninterception of this message would have been most introublematic. Your\npresence in my ancient store is thusly requirsted posthaste - I have\nneed of your services, and am prepared to offer a colossiderable\nreward.\n\nJudging from the many portmalteaus, this was written by Mr. Pages -\none of the Masters, the cabal of shadowy creatures that 'bought'\nLondon ten years ago. You aren't sure what store he's referring to,\nbut many of London's older shops are on a street southwest of your\nlodgings. Perhaps Mr. Pages expects you to show up soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hats", "response": "own. It is the most important part of your identity, after all.\n\nIn the rack are a detective's fedora, a captain's cap, a doctor's\nheadpiece and a footpad's mask.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the case", "response": "An old trophy case, with thirteen slots of specific sizes and shapes.\nThe case is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the windows", "response": "Morning fog obscures the hustle and bustle of London.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the towel", "response": "Mud, blood, mirrors. This towel does it all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean windows", "response": "What do you want to clean the windows with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the towel", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the fedora", "response": "(first taking the detective's fedora)\nSo you're a detective, then?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Taken. Your other hats disappear.\n\nYou put on the detective's fedora.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A public road. A muddy river connects with the street to the west, and\nMoloch Street is accessible in the north. The street is empty in the\nsouthwest and alien in the south. Your lodgings are to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Most people prefer the wide, well-maintained main street to this dull,\nempty road. Most of the storefronts are vacant, windows boarded up,\nwith the exception of one cozy-looking storefront. The lane connects\nwith some broad streets in the northeast. South is the entrance to the\ncity's archeological district. An antique shop is embedded in a wall\nof shops to the east. A horse statue is on display in the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the statue", "response": "A valuable statue of a horse made from silver, apparently made by\nLondon's predecessors. It's on sale.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The place has a rather homey atmosphere. Ancient objects of all shapes\nand sizes are for sale along the walls, though most of them just look\nlike junk. Outside, the desolate lane awaits. In the east wall of the\nshop is the door to a back room.\n\nRunning the shop is a weary antiquarian.\n\nA rusty lamp catches your eye.\n\nA silver statue of a horse is on display.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "An old fashioned oil lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine antiquarian", "response": "A square who looks like she'd like nothing better than a nap. She\noccasionally looks up from the counter to check on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the antiquarian", "response": "\"This used to be the busiest antique shop in the city, you know. At\nleast, until they cleaned the rubble up from main street and I stopped\ngetting foot traffic. These days, I'm lucky to get a customer.\" She\nlooks briefly sad. \"I'm technically in the antiques business, but this\nplace is just a glorified pawnshop, so feel free to ask me about any\ntreasures you find - I might just have an answer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the antiquarian about the lamp", "response": "\"What, that? It's just a lamp, really. Basically worthless. You can\nhave it, if you want.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lamp", "response": "The antiquarian shrugs. \"Sure. Not like it was going to sell anyway.\nNo one wants to buy a rusty antique.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the antiquarian about horse", "response": "\"I'm afraid I can't tell you much about this piece. Probably from the\nfourth city, they did like horses. It's also rather valuable,\nand it's yours if you can give me something to replace it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the antiquarian about the note", "response": "The antiquarian sighs. \"He's in the back.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first opening the back room door)\n\nThe Lair Of Mr. Pages\nInstead of the back room of an antique shop, you appear to have\nstumbled onto some kind of chair warehouse. A chairhouse, if you will.\nAntique furniture has been placed in neat piles around the room. The\nantique shop proper is west.\n\nMr. Pages himself, conspicuously without his usual flock of guards and\nassistants, lounges in an old Queen Anne seat. This must be important.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Pages", "response": "\"Ah, Detective. I do hope my missive wasn't too perplusing.\" Pages\nspeaks in an urgent, grating screech. \"After two thousand years, an\nentity has returned to the city. Back to spread its\nuntruthidious gospel of the third dimension, no doubt.\" He\nspits. \"I would have you perform a small task for me.\"\n\nPages watches you carefully. \"Well, Detective? Are you going to ASK me\nabout it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pages about the entity", "response": "\"A perfidious shape,\" Pages hisses. \"It has lied to us, and now it has\nreturned, to lie to other shapes about the existence of the 'third\ndimension'. Disharmodious falsehoods, I assure you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pages about the third dimension", "response": "\"The traitor would have us all believe that another dimension\nexists, beyond the two,\" Pages explains. \"A square is to a line as\nthis new plane is to us.\" You ask the obvious question. Does the third\ndimension exist? \"No!\" Pages screeches. His claws squeeze the armrest\nof his chair tightly, causing it to splinter. \"It does not!\"\n\nMaybe asking someone else will be more helpful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pages about the task", "response": "\"He is writing a book,\" Pages spits. He says it with such force that\nyou are, for a moment, convinced that he hates all books. \"A foul\ndoctrine of third-dimensional lies. Your task is to track the entity\nto its lair-\" And kill it? \"No\". Trained shapes have tried\nand failed to kill this creature. No, Pages just wants the book, so he\ncan be sure it is destroyed properly. \"There will be a\nreward\", he adds when he sees you hesitate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pages about the lair", "response": "\"Its lair is undecealed,\" Pages says. \"Incognonymous. Hobscure.\" He\nhands you a piece of paper. \"You will need this.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pages about the reward", "response": "\"I should think that proving yourself to my imsteemed individuality\nwould be reward enough,\" says Pages, puffing out his chest. \"But I can\noffer you money. A plenteous sum. Enough to make you a very rich\nshape.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the location", "response": "A messy list that looks like it was written by someone with claws.\nDifferent parts of the city that the entity you're tracking might live\nin, though it's not clear what they all have in common. The document\nreads:\nThe Shuttered Palace (in the west)\nThe Forgotten Quarter (in the southwest)\nThe Bazaar (in the south)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chair", "response": "An antique chair. Well-loved, if the heavy scratches on the cloth are\nany indication.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pages about the horse", "response": "Mr. Pages says nothing. Perhaps he's attempting to communicate with\nyou telepathically. More likely, though, he doesn't know what you're\ntalking about and is too proud to say it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The place has a rather homey atmosphere. Ancient objects of all shapes\nand sizes are for sale along the walls, though most of them just look\nlike junk. Outside, the desolate lane awaits. In the east wall of the\nshop is the door to a back room.\n\nRunning the shop is a weary antiquarian.\n\nA silver statue of a horse is on display.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Most people prefer the wide, well-maintained main street to this dull,\nempty road. Most of the storefronts are vacant, windows boarded up,\nwith the exception of one cozy-looking storefront. The lane connects\nwith some broad streets in the northeast. South is the entrance to the\ncity's archeological district. An antique shop is embedded in a wall\nof shops to the east. A horse statue is on display in the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stand at the edge of an ancient city - The Forgotten Quarter. Or\nwhat's left of it, anyway. What wasn't destroyed by London was\nstripped away by looters, making the whole place feel rather empty. To\nthe north, the empty ruins connect to an empty street. Far to the\nwest, you can see a pavilion that seems more or less untouched. South\nis an archeological dig site.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "A magnificent dig site, heading into the stone that encases a lot of\nthe ruins. This one is almost abandoned, though. The excavation seems\nto have stopped at a large chunk of rock with a building embedded in\nit. The way out of the Forgotten Quarter is to the north. In the\ndistance, looking almost translucent in the mist, is a pavilion.\n\nA bored archaeologist lies on a crate, worn out.\n\nA pickaxe rests on the ground nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rock", "response": "It seems progress stopped on the excavations at the exact wrong time.\nA little more digging, and the ruin's front door would have been\naccessible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the archaeologist", "response": "A square, dressed in the neat clothing of an archaeologist. She looks\ntired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the archaeologist", "response": "The last archaeologist squints at you. \"You won't find anything here,\"\nshe says. \"That third dimension stuff is just talk.\" She sighs. \"Not\nthat it matters whether or not I was going to find anything, seeing as\nmy crew quit. And when I was only a few pickaxe-swings away\nfrom victory, too.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the archaeologist about crew", "response": "The archaeologist sighs. \"I suppose I should have told them up front\nthat this expedition had to do with the third dimension. And\nthey were right to be scared of getting arrested on the slim chance\nthat we found something interesting. Only when they quit, my\ncolleagues went too, and all the dockworkers, and now there's no one\nin London that'll even consider helping me with this. Shame, too. It's\na good job.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the archaeologist about the expedition", "response": "\"I'm digging for a ritual site,\" the archaeologist explains. \"We were\nmaking great progress until- well, until my team walked out on me.\"\nShe shrugs. \"I did what I could on my own, but I think I sprained\nsomething. It's frustrating. Now that I've found the damn building, I\ncan't get through to it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pickaxe", "response": "A cheap metal pickaxe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "The archaeologist watches you take the pickaxe. \"Sure, take it,\" she\nsays. \"And do let me know what you find.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the rock with the pickaxe", "response": "You hit the chunk, hard. Flecks of stone fly off of it, exposing more\nof the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "You hit the chunk again. You've managed to get most of the way\nthrough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "You chip away at the last of the rock blocking the door. The entrance\nto an ancient temple is now visible to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stand in a grand hall, built from a rich marble. Even weathered by\ntime, it's magnificent. The exit is to the north. A side-room, so\nsmall that it seems like an afterthought, is to the west. Presumably\nthere were other chambers here, but they've long since been buried in\ndebris.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the debris", "response": "Solid, heavy rubble prevents your passage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "than constructed. East, a jagged tunnel leads back into the temple you\ncame from.\n\nA nodule of amber is here, in the center of the room. Whoever put it\nhere obviously thought it was important.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the amber", "response": "If you listen, you can almost hear the distant sound of gurgling. This\nlump of amber fills you with a warm, fuzzy feeling when you hold it.\nThat makes it valuable, at least to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na lump of friendly amber\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the debris with the pickaxe", "response": "anything. Even after a few moments of digging, you can tell that this\nstone goes all the way through. You haven't a chance in or out of hell\nat getting through all that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A magnificent dig site, heading into the stone that encases a lot of\nthe ruins. This one is almost abandoned, though. The way out of the\nForgotten Quarter is to the north. In the distance, looking almost\ntranslucent in the mist, is a pavilion. The entrance to an ancient\ntemple is visible to the south.\n\nA bored archaeologist lies on a crate, worn out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine crate", "response": "A crate of supplies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the archaeologist about Amber", "response": "\"Amber, huh?\" The archaeologist irritably smashes into a pebble,\nsending it flying. \"Figures the temple I've been searching for for\nfive odd years would turn out to just be some... Hive for a bunch of\nirregulars. And I was so sure it would be somewhere in this area, too.\nCircles damnit.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You stand at the edge of an ancient city - The Forgotten Quarter. Or\nwhat's left of it, anyway. What wasn't destroyed by London was\nstripped away by looters, making the whole place feel rather empty. To\nthe north, the empty ruins connect to an empty street. Far to the\nwest, you can see a pavilion that seems more or less untouched. South\nis an archeological dig site.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You stand in a grand pavilion. The other buildings on this street are\nweathered and broken, but here not a single thing is out of place.\nOutside and to the east is the way out of the Forgotten Quarter.\n\nAn ornate rug covers most of the pavilion's southern side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rug", "response": "An antique rug from the people who came before, in excellent\ncondition. You're sure they wouldn't mind you having this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rug", "response": "The rug seems to have been covering a tunnel in the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A long, serpentine hallway. The floor is covered in a rather detailed\nmural. To the north, the passage returns to the pavilion. South, the\nhallway continues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mural", "response": "A large group of triangles is gathered around an unusual shape in what\nlooks like worship. But that can't be right. Who in their right mind\nwould worship a line?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are still in a hallway that runs north-south. Another mural is\netched into the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mural", "response": "of circles. Despite the advantage granted to them by their points, the\ntriangles appear to be losing. A rectangle stands in the distance,\npassively watching. It is the same color as the line in the previous\nmural, and is in the same location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The hallway north ends in an oak door to the south. Near the door, and\nall around you, is a mural.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mural", "response": "In the mural, a small group of triangles gather around a circle in\nexaltation. Apart from the dead triangles, scattered around the mural,\nall is well. The lower classes are in their proper places at last.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "A solid oak door. After hundreds of years, you'd expect it to be\nrotten, but it seems well-maintained.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first opening the oak door)\n\nA huge chamber with an exit to the north. It smells faintly of smoke,\nand apart from an odd carving near the far wall, is completely empty.\nSomething else about the room feels off, though you can't say what\nexactly.\n\nEight candles have been placed at odd intervals around the room.\n\nThe bones of a long-dead triangle rest against the far wall, clutching\na bell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the carving", "response": "A dot, then a line, then a square. Then some kind of irregular shape,\nlike two squares crushed and smashed together. Next to it, something\nis written. ???????? ???????????? - PERFECTION in mongolian. But you\nnever\nlearned to read mongolian. So why do you know what that says?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bones", "response": "You get the sense that the dead triangle is watching you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the candles", "response": "Old tallow candles. Flammable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bell", "response": "An old bell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub lamp", "response": "You rub the rusty lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lamp", "response": "What do you want to light the rusty lamp with?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A huge chamber with an exit to the north. It smells faintly of smoke,\nand apart from an odd carving near the far wall, is completely empty.\nSomething else about the room feels off, though you can't say what\nexactly.\n\nEight candles have been placed at odd intervals around the room.\n\nThe bones of a long-dead triangle rest against the far wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ring bell", "response": "A sudden gust of wind causes the candles to go out.\n\nThe bell makes a pleasant ringing sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You stand in a grand pavilion. The other buildings on this street are\nweathered and broken, but here not a single thing is out of place.\nOutside and to the east is the way out of the Forgotten Quarter.\nDespite the fact that you've seen the pavilion from the outside, there\nis a tunnel leading south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stand at the edge of an ancient city - The Forgotten Quarter. Or\nwhat's left of it, anyway. What wasn't destroyed by London was\nstripped away by looters, making the whole place feel rather empty. To\nthe north, the empty ruins connect to an empty street. Far to the\nwest, you can see a pavilion that seems more or less untouched. South\nis an archeological dig site.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Most people prefer the wide, well-maintained main street to this dull,\nempty road. Most of the storefronts are vacant, windows boarded up,\nwith the exception of one cozy-looking storefront. The lane connects\nwith some broad streets in the northeast. South is the entrance to the\ncity's archeological district. An antique shop is embedded in a wall\nof shops to the east. A horse statue is on display in the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The place has a rather homey atmosphere. Ancient objects of all shapes\nand sizes are for sale along the walls, though most of them just look\nlike junk. Outside, the desolate lane awaits. In the east wall of the\nshop is the door to a back room.\n\nRunning the shop is a weary antiquarian.\n\nA silver statue of a horse is on display.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show Amber to the antiquarian", "response": "The weary antiquarian is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the antiquarian about Amber", "response": "\"Yeah, that's amber alright. That seems like a pretty rare piece,\ntoo.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the antiquarian about the rug", "response": "\"I like it,\" the antiquarian says. \"Give it here.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the rug to the antiquarian", "response": "The antiquarian takes the rug with poorly contained excitement. \"A\ngenuine fourth city rug? And look at that detail. Where did you even\nfind a thing like this? Wait, on second thought, don't tell me. I\ncould care less if it's stolen, it's mine now.\" There is a pause. \"Oh\nright, you probably want something in return. Take the horse statue.\nLeave me to my prize.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the antiquarian about the bell", "response": "\"That's just a bell. It does seem pretty old, though. Fourth city\ncraftsmanship, if I'm not mistaken.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Most people prefer the wide, well-maintained main street to this dull,\nempty road. Most of the storefronts are vacant, windows boarded up,\nwith the exception of one cozy-looking storefront. The lane connects\nwith some broad streets in the northeast. South is the entrance to the\ncity's archeological district. An antique shop is embedded in a wall\nof shops to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in your small apartment. It's a cool London morning, and your\nwindows are ever so slightly fogged up. A door is set into the west\nwall of your home.\n\nIn one corner of the room is an old wooden trophy case.\n\nYou can also see a sanitized mirror here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Amber in the case", "response": "The trophy case is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open case", "response": "You open the trophy case.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Amber in the case", "response": "The lump of friendly amber fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the horse in the case", "response": "The horse statue fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close case", "response": "You close the trophy case.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the location", "response": "A messy list that looks like it was written by someone with claws.\nDifferent parts of the city that the entity you're tracking might live\nin, though it's not clear what they all have in common. The document\nreads:\nThe Shuttered Palace (in the west)\nThe Forgotten Quarter (in the southwest)\nThe Bazaar (in the south)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The industrial bustle of London peaks here, not at the center of town\nbut in the Bazaar that effectively owns the city. Something alien is\nhere, thrumming at the edge of your consciousness and living inside\nthe ground. A more ordinary street is to the north, and an alleyway is\nto the west. East is the door to a land agency.\n\nAn out-of-work clay triangle is here, lounging in front of a door to\nthe east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the triangle", "response": "A triangle, but made from sturdy clay. One of the creatures that began\nto appear here and there after the shift, albeit to fill a role\nLondon's had for centuries. This one looks bored.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the triangle", "response": "\"I WAS NOT MADE FOR DOOR-WATCHING,\" says the clay triangle. \"I WILL\nFOLLOW YOU, IF YOU CAN LEAD ME TO WORK.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The clay triangle stops you. \"MR. PENSTOCK HAS INSTRUCTED ME TO\nPREVENT TRESPASSERS,\" he says. \"AND FOR A LACK OF ADEQUATE WORK, I\nWILL CONTINUE TO DO SO.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the pickaxe to the triangle", "response": "\"KEEP IT.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask triangle about the archaeologist", "response": "The clay triangle looks at you blankly. \"WHAT.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the archaeologist about the triangle", "response": "Which do you mean, the triangle's bones or the out-of-work clay\ntriangle?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clay", "response": "The archaeologist frowns. \"I'm afraid I can't help you there.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "The out-of-work clay triangle begins to follow you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A public road. A muddy river connects with the street to the west, and\nMoloch Street is accessible in the north. The street is empty in the\nsouthwest and alien in the south. Your lodgings are to the east.\n\nThe out-of-work clay triangle arrives from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Most people prefer the wide, well-maintained main street to this dull,\nempty road. Most of the storefronts are vacant, windows boarded up,\nwith the exception of one cozy-looking storefront. The lane connects\nwith some broad streets in the northeast. South is the entrance to the\ncity's archeological district. An antique shop is embedded in a wall\nof shops to the east.\n\nThe out-of-work clay triangle arrives from the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stand at the edge of an ancient city - The Forgotten Quarter. Or\nwhat's left of it, anyway. What wasn't destroyed by London was\nstripped away by looters, making the whole place feel rather empty. To\nthe north, the empty ruins connect to an empty street. Far to the\nwest, you can see a pavilion that seems more or less untouched. South\nis an archeological dig site.\n\nThe out-of-work clay triangle arrives from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A magnificent dig site, heading into the stone that encases a lot of\nthe ruins. This one is almost abandoned, though. The way out of the\nForgotten Quarter is to the north. In the distance, looking almost\ntranslucent in the mist, is a pavilion. The entrance to an ancient\ntemple is visible to the south.\n\nA bored archaeologist lies on a crate, worn out.\n\na moment. The archaeologist takes in the triangle's strong, capable\nangles. The triangle takes in the vast amount of work to be done.\n\"IT'S PERFECT,\" says the triangle. \"When can you start?\" says the\narchaeologist, already taking out her wallet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A magnificent dig site, heading into the stone that encases a lot of\nthe ruins. This one is almost abandoned, though. The way out of the\nForgotten Quarter is to the north. In the distance, looking almost\ntranslucent in the mist, is a pavilion. The entrance to an ancient\ntemple is visible to the south.\n\nA clay triangle is hard at work at the dig site.\n\nA bored archaeologist lies on a crate, worn out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The industrial bustle of London peaks here, not at the center of town\nbut in the Bazaar that effectively owns the city. Something alien is\nhere, thrumming at the edge of your consciousness and living inside\nthe ground. A more ordinary street is to the north, and an alleyway is\nto the west. East is the door to a land agency.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The land agency of Penstock, a heptagon realtor with better things to\ndo than man his own shop. The air in here is still and dusty. A door\nto the west leads back out to the bazaar, and an elevator shaft is to\nthe east.\n\nA brass key is tucked away past the counter here.\n\nA metal cage-elevator looms in the back of the shop, situated\nprecariously at the top of a long shaft south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the key", "response": "A small key, made from a sharp red brass. M.S. is written on\na tag attached to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shaft", "response": "A long elevator shaft, the right shape and size for a cage-elevator to\ngo through. Of course, the elevator is mostly a matter of convenience,\nas the force of gravity isn't nearly strong enough to keep you from\ngoing north.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The land agency of Penstock, a heptagon realtor with better things to\ndo than man his own shop. The air in here is still and dusty. A door\nto the west leads back out to the bazaar, and an elevator shaft is to\nthe east.\n\nA metal cage-elevator looms in the back of the shop, situated\nprecariously at the top of a long shaft south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cage", "response": "A rickety cage-elevator on a chain. It won't fall, but you can't be\nsure of that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Elevator Shaft (in the cage-elevator)\nYou are in a rickety metal cage-elevator, with a lever attached to it.\nThe elevator is still. An elevator shaft is visible to the south, and\nthe land agency is back to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at lever", "response": "A plain lever, waiting to be pulled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The elevator blocks your path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull lever", "response": "You pull the lever. The elevator starts to move.\n\nThe elevator rushes south, past what looks like a shelf carved into\nthe side of the shaft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelf", "response": "A niche in the side of the elevator shaft. Something wooden is inside.\n\nThe elevator rushes south.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Elevator Shaft (in the cage-elevator)\nYou are deep in the earth.\n\nThe elevator stops in a vast cavern, far south of the ground.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Elevator Shaft (in the cage-elevator)\nYou are deep in the earth.\n\nThe elevator rushes north, past what looks like a shelf carved into\nthe side of the shaft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cage", "response": "A rickety cage-elevator on a chain. It won't fall, but you can't be\nsure of that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "The shaft is just wide enough to fit the elevator. You can't get out.\n\nThe elevator rushes south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe elevator stops in a vast cavern, far south of the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe elevator rushes north, past what looks like a shelf carved into\nthe side of the shaft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelf", "response": "A niche in the side of the elevator shaft. Something wooden is inside.\n\nThe elevator screeches to a halt at the top of the shaft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe elevator screeches to a halt at the top of the shaft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shelf", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe elevator rushes south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na shelf\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note\n\nThe elevator stops in a vast cavern, far south of the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelf", "response": "A niche in the side of the elevator shaft. Something wooden is inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note\n\nThe elevator screeches to a halt at the top of the shaft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe elevator rushes south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe elevator stops in a vast cavern, far south of the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the cage-elevator.\n\nThe room is a vast, yawning cavern, a secret warehouse south of the\nground. Fiery glyphs set into the walls illuminate deep pools and pits\nof ivory foam around you, and the scent of ammonia is thick in the\nair. North is an elevator shaft leading out, and east is an altar.\n\nA metal cage-elevator is here, attached to a chain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the glyphs", "response": "Letters in the impossible language of above, spitting small\nshowers of sparks into the room below. You don't even try to read\nthem. They weren't intended for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pools", "response": "A foamy white substance sits in pits and pools here. You might call it\nsnow if you didn't know any better, but you do know better, so you\ncall it lacre. Better not get too close.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Here in a broad cavern, across a sea of foamy pits, is a stone altar.\nWest is a cage-elevator, situated on a flat stone clearing. A\nstairwell south leads even further into the bowels of the earth.\n\nA large pail rests next to the altar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the altar", "response": "A large stone altar, about your size. Some writing has been carved\ninto it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the writing", "response": "One part lacre, one part shape. Add shape to lacre, combine in\npail. Wait. Enjoy.\n\nthemselves. They say the snow-foam likes that. You don't have a knife,\nbut theoretically, any 'aspect of the self' will do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pail", "response": "An old metal pail. The bottom is crusted with a snowy residue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A passageway running north-south through the rock. The scent of\nammonia wafts in from the north, and to the south, the tunnel gets\ndarker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Here in a broad cavern, across a sea of foamy pits, is a stone altar.\nWest is a cage-elevator, situated on a flat stone clearing. A\nstairwell south leads even further into the bowels of the earth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The room is a vast, yawning cavern, a secret warehouse south of the\nground. Fiery glyphs set into the walls illuminate deep pools and pits\nof ivory foam around you, and the scent of ammonia is thick in the\nair. North is an elevator shaft leading out, and east is an altar.\n\nA metal cage-elevator is here, attached to a chain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are in an elevator shaft. A great chain is here, spanning north to\nsouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in an elevator shaft. A great chain is here, spanning north to\nsouth.\n\nA discrete casket is here, nestled into a shelf carved into the rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the casket", "response": "A plain casket, made from cheap wood. On its hinged lid, the phrase\n\"SOOTHE & COOPER\" is stencilled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the discrete casket, revealing a heartmetal disc.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the disc", "response": "A milky lump of silvery metal, about the size of a heart and quite\nsmooth. You've never seen anything like this before, but there's no\ndoubt it's valuable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are at the top of an elevator shaft. It continues to the south,\nand the land agency is back to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The land agency of Penstock, a heptagon realtor with better things to\ndo than man his own shop. The air in here is still and dusty. A door\nto the west leads back out to the bazaar, and an elevator shaft is to\nthe east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "If you remember correctly, the garbage bin you found your trophy case\nin is somewhere around here. Sigils that hurt to look at gleam on the\nwalls, and the alley exits to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sigils", "response": "They say that huge, fiery entities exist - not north, but\nabove your fragile world. They say the stars have their own\nlanguage, and that it looks something like this. But this is just\ngraffiti, a cheap imitation of the real thing. Either way, it's enough\nto set a part of your shirt on fire. You pat it out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bin", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open case", "response": "You open the trophy case, revealing a horse statue and a lump of\nfriendly amber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the disc in the case", "response": "The heartmetal disc fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close case", "response": "You close the trophy case.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na pail\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You've got an excellent view of the stolen river, which is accessible\nto the south. The shuttered palace looms in the west, the entrance to\nthe university is north, and east is a series of broad streets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine river", "response": "The former Thames is still a fixture of London life, and it still\nregularly spits up muddy garbage. It's just that now it spits up dead\npeople, too. They say it runs straight through hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The palace is shuttered, and its windows are boarded up. That's really\nall there is to say on the matter. The road you are on continues\naround the palace to the north and south. The Stolen River's banks are\nto the east. The palace looms in the west, but two gates prevent you\nfrom going any further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The gates stop you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gates", "response": "Wrought-iron gates. Only a miracle could get you through the tight\nbars, and you don't think one is forthcoming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are south of the palace. A red brick wall extends from the palace\nfloor and continues south for a while. You could follow it, if you\nwanted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "A sturdy looking wall made from red bricks. It clashes violently with\nthe smooth limestone of the palace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A red brick wall to your west comes from the shuttered palace, far to\nthe north, and ends in a large mass of rock to your immediate south.\nEast, you recognize the distant ruins of the Forgotten Quarter, which\nare at least less empty than this place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "A sturdy looking wall made from red bricks. It goes on for quite a\nwhile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The mass of rock is too wide to be easily bypassed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the wall with the pickaxe", "response": "The wall resists your attempts to dig through it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are north of the palace, past the roof. You get the feeling that\nHer Most Circular Majesty doesn't particularly care for warmth,\nbecause all the chimneys have been covered up. The palace's front\ngates are east, and its more discreet back entrance is west. A barrier\nto the south keeps you away from the shingles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the barrier", "response": "A spiked, wrought-iron fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are west of the palace, where the back entrance to the building is\nlocated. North is the roof, and to the south, you can see a basalt\nwall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the back entrance", "response": "This is the door the servants use - the ones that don't live in the\npalace, anyway. It is locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are south of the shuttered palace, following a basalt wall in the\neast. Further to the south, the wall disappears into a large mass of\nrock. Here, the wall has a small crack in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crack", "response": "A minor weakness in the wall. It's not nearly large enough to fit\nyourself through, but it's a good place to start.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the crack with the pickaxe", "response": "With a few well-placed swings, you reduce this section of the wall to\nrubble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are south of the shuttered palace, following a basalt wall in the\neast. Further to the south, the wall disappears into a large mass of\nrock.\n\nA hole in the wall reveals a tunnel to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are west of the palace, where the back entrance to the building is\nlocated. North is the roof, and to the south, you can see a basalt\nwall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are north of the palace, past the roof. You get the feeling that\nHer Most Circular Majesty doesn't particularly care for warmth,\nbecause all the chimneys have been covered up. The palace's front\ngates are east, and its more discreet back entrance is west. A barrier\nto the south keeps you away from the shingles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The palace is shuttered, and its windows are boarded up. That's really\nall there is to say on the matter. The road you are on continues\naround the palace to the north and south. The Stolen River's banks are\nto the east. The palace looms in the west, but two gates prevent you\nfrom going any further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You've got an excellent view of the stolen river, which is accessible\nto the south. The shuttered palace looms in the west, the entrance to\nthe university is north, and east is a series of broad streets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "the university lawn. Paths to the south and east both lead back into\nthe city. North is the entrance to the only public library in the\ncity, and what looks like an engineering building is situated to the\nwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are at the library's front desk, to which a sign has been taped.\nThe exit is in the south wall. A forest of bookshelves is accessible\nto the north.\n\nA librarian sits at the front desk, ignoring you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sign", "response": "FOOD IS NOT ALLOWED IN THE LIBRARY, the sign reads. BUT YOU MAY:\nASK ABOUT DIRECTIONS\nCHECK OUT A BOOK\nSTUDY QUIETLY\n\nIT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU COME TO THE LIBRARY WITH AN IDEA AS TO WHAT\nYOU SEEK, the sign adds, OR YOU MAY BE HERE A WHILE.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the librarian about the third dimension", "response": "The librarian shrugs. \"Check geometry. Five hundred and ten.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A long path, walled in by shelves, goes from west to east, and the\nexit is to the south. All around you are bookshelves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bookshelves", "response": "Stars and a copy of On Gravity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read Stars", "response": "Most of the book is scorched beyond recognition. The parts you can\nread claim that not only do celestial beings beyond comprehension\nexist, but that their language has the power to 'substantially alter'\na person's biology. It goes on to claim that those aspects of their\nlanguage can be reproduced by ordinary shapes, with sufficiently\npowerful materials and a knowledge of what to write.\n\nYou shut the book, tired of hearing more unsubstantiated claims by the\nhoney-addled and the delusional. And afraid for your clothing, which\ntends to catch fire when you think about that sort of thing too hard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read Gravity", "response": "\"By a Law of Nature with us, there is a constant attraction to the\nSouth; and, although in temperate climates this is very slight-yet the\nhampering effect of the southward attraction is quite sufficient to\nserve as a compass in most parts of our earth. Moreover, the rain\n(which falls at stated intervals) coming always from the North, is an\nadditional assistance; and in the towns we have the guidance of the\nhouses, which of course have their side-walls running for the most\npart North and South, so that the roofs may keep off the rain from the\nNorth.\" - Edwin A. Abbott.\n\nMost of this has remained true even after London's change, though the\nrain comes from somewhere else now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A long path, walled in by literature, goes from west to east. All\naround you are bookshelves, packed with books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "In the bookshelves are a copy of Cults And Rituals: A History\nand a copy of On The Politics of London.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the Cults", "response": "The book is rather dry, but perhaps you'll get something out of it.\n\nAccording to this book, a small cult in the fourth city once chose to\nbreak off from the doctrines laid out for them by the circle, instead\nworshipping \"third-dimensional beings\", in clear defiance of\nscientific fact. When gathering, these cults would often perform\nelaborate rituals in attempts to summon these entities, though none\nhave of these have been proven to work. In the year 1796, such a cult\nattempted an elaborate ritual, but they were massacred by fourth city\nauthorities, and their ritual site reduced to ash.\n\nAs you read, a set of instructions falls out from between the pages.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine instructions", "response": "The instructions to some kind of rite, in shaky writing.\n\n1. The shape the sacred shape never more never less always eight the\nsacred shape LIGHT THEM.\n2. Ring the bell to get the audience's attention\n3. Repeat after me.\n\nOn the back is an incantation, though much of the ink is smudged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine incantation", "response": "The instructions are written in the queen's english, but the\nincantation is written in mongolian - the language of the fourth city.\nBut it's not really the right time for mongolian conjuring, so you\ndecide not to.You don't understand a word of it. Maybe if you did\nyou'd be able to read it out loud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Politics", "response": "This \"book\" is nothing more or less than a series of rants about\nLondon's mayoral elections, which the author claims are both rigged\nand pointless. London, the author argues, is controlled by the\nchiropteran beasts that abducted London in the first place, not by\nsome democratically elected mascot. Not to mention, Her Most Circular\nMajesty ought to be in charge, even if she did sell the city to them\nin a kind of elaborate devil's paw scenario.\n\nYou shut the book with disgust. Monarchists.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A long path, walled in by literature, goes from west to east. All\naround you are bookshelves, packed with books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the books", "response": "and a copy of A Dream I Had Last Saturday.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shapes", "response": "\"Soldiers and the lowest classes of workmen are isosceles triangles.\nThe middle class consists of equilateral triangles. Professional men\nand gentlemen are squares and pentagons. Next above these come the\nnobility, of whom there are several degrees, beginning at hexagons,\nand from thence rising in the number of their sides till they receive\nthe honourable title of polygonal, or many-sided. Finally when the\nnumber of the sides becomes so numerous, and the sides themselves so\nsmall, that the figure cannot be distinguished from a circle, he is\nincluded in the circular or priestly order; and this is the highest\nclass of all.\" - Edwin A. Abbott\n\nYou shut the encyclopedia. You knew all this already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Dream", "response": "nonsense. In it, the author describes a dream they had about a\ndimension of straight, one-dimensional lines. He was apparently\ninvisible to them, and was unable to explain the existence of the\nsecond dimension. That's the only part of the book you can make out,\nanyway. Censorship seems to have hit it hard, and more than half of\nthe book is torn out or covered up. Shame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A cozy-looking study nook is at the end of a long corridor of books to\nthe east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Medicinal Uses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chess", "response": "You crack open your copy of The Devil Went South To London: How To\nWin At Chess Against Immortal Entities.\n\nRenowned correspondant and chessmaster Letitia P. Eaglethorpe claims\nto have beaten Death at chess, not once but several times. She claims\nthat anyone can do the same, provided they follow these instructions,\nwith the first taking precedence over the last.\n\n1. The circle is a powerful opponent, but pointless. Use something\nsharp.\n2. The ideas and constructs of civilization can always be brought low\nby the wild animal's grand designs.\n3. A stops B and B stops C. All things shall return to me.\n4. Infinity stopped with a shot from a gun. To hinder a catspaw, move\ninto a- *the ink is smudged too badly to read*\n5. If all else fails, go north, into the edge and the black.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Squid-Creature Servant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the maze map", "response": "So the geometer stood at the ready, pacing nervously around his\nstudy. Soon, he'd been promised, it would all be complete. Even if\nhe'd contacted them first, he hadn't expected them to actually\nrespond, and he couldn't be more anxious if he tried. Not Eating,\nbarely sleeping, even, in case the chiropterans wanted to make the\nexchange at night. Whether or not they could even give him what he'd\nasked for was unclear as well. Such Entities as them were not to be\ntaken lightly, if they really wanted his entire city in exchange - and\nthat was another thing. What he'd promised them he didn't own, and if\nthey discovered they'd been tricked, they might not uphold their end\nof the bargain. Euclid shuddered at the thought.\n\nYou shut the book. That's not a map at all. Must have been an error at\nthe printer's.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Servant", "response": "ACT I, SCENE III\nPRINCESS: Here to clean my chambers? I certainly hope your\ntentacles will be up to the task. My chambers are quite large, you\nsee.\nSQUID-CREATURE: Hrshbrglargh.\nPRINCESS: Oh my. Do you think you could polish... this?\nSQUID-CREATURE: Blathrgthlgle.\nPRINCESS (Blushing): Well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "to the west.\n\nA missing library card is here, neglected and crumbled up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the card", "response": "This library card belonged to Allen Rutherford, a pentagon in his 20s.\nNow it belongs to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the librarian about card", "response": "The librarian glances at the library card. \"Yup, that looks like one\nof our students.\" She gives you a shrug. \"If I were you, I'd try to\nreturn it to its owner. Maybe they'll give you something nice.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "the university lawn. Paths to the south and east both lead back into\nthe city. North is the entrance to the only public library in the\ncity, and what looks like an engineering building is situated to the\nwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "In London, as it is everywhere else, the whole world is evenly lit\nduring the day with little regard to walls or veils. The rules seem to\nbe different here, and the whole room is like night apart from a\ngaslight on the wall. West is a door leading to a hallway, and east is\nthe way back to the quad.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine gaslight", "response": "A bright, flickering thing. Mounted to the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A long hallway extends from a door to the east, and continues west for\na while. A wall-mounted torch illuminates the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the torch", "response": "It is firmly attached to the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A long hallway continues through a patch of darkness in the east, and\nends in a door to the west labelled \"TESTING LAB\". A dull light flows\nout from the muddled glass windows of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(first opening the testing lab door)\n\nhere. A few small fires can be seen, and the scent of gasoline is\nheavy in the air. The exit is a nondescript door to the east. Welcome\nto the Laboratory of Manufactured Light.\n\nA pentagon sits in the lab, looking distressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine pentagon", "response": "The pentagon - A.R. according to his name tag - probably shouldn't\nhave all that oil-stained clothing so close to an open flame. But you\nwon't tell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to pentagon", "response": "The pentagon turns to greet you. \"It's hopeless,\" he says. \"My\nacademic career, completely down the drain.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the card to pentagon", "response": "Allen thanks you profusely. \"Finally, I can check out books again.\" He\ndigs around in his pockets for a bit before pulling something out.\n\"Here,\" he says. \"I found this in the lab the other day. You can have\nit.\" He hands you a stone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stone", "response": "A smooth, jagged rock, about the size of a small pebble. A hole has\nbeen bored in its center.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Allen about the stone", "response": "(the sharp stone)\n\"Flint, I think. It must have fallen off one of my inventions.\nWhatever. It's yours now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Allen about the academic career", "response": "\"I've been working on something,\" the pentagon explains. \"A\ncomprehensive analysis of fire that's sure to get me published. Only\nthing is, I need a particular compendium from the library.\nAnd the library's way too far away.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Allen about the compendium", "response": "\"Fire And Its Medicinal Uses\", the pentagon says fondly. \"Oh,\nI can just see the title now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Allen about the fire", "response": "\"Yeah, that's the one I'm talking about.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Moloch Street, where shapes who have traded away their mortal souls\nbegin their journeys towards hell. North is the entrance to the\nLabyrinth of Tigers, and west is the university. South, the street\nbecomes less menacing.\n\nAn old house with a brass-plated door stands in the east, passing\njudgement on everyone it sees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "here. A few small fires can be seen, and the scent of gasoline is\nheavy in the air. The exit is a nondescript door to the east. Welcome\nto the Laboratory of Manufactured Light.\n\nA pentagon sits in the lab, looking distressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the fire to Allen", "response": "The pentagon takes the book from you. \"My research is saved,\" he says.\n\"This is truly a great day for science. Why don't you take this as\npayment?\" He hands you some kind of experimental device.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the device", "response": "A metal device resembling an open-ended safety pin. One of its points\nhas a metal disc screwed onto it, and one of its points is empty -\nit's missing something. When you click the ends together, nothing\nhappens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Allen about device", "response": "\"What, that?\" The pentagon shrugs. \"Part of a new invention I'm\nworking on. The power of fire, at the tip of your fingertips. Or I\nguess the power of sparks.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flint on the device", "response": "You slide the flint into place on the flint-and-steel lighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Allen", "response": "Allen ignores you. He's busy reading not one but three books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "What was once the river Thames cuts through the middle of the city,\ndepositing the dead and detritus alike on its muddy banks. The river\nitself is immediately south. The street is north, and the beach\nstretches on for a while to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine river", "response": "The former Thames is still a fixture of London life, and it still\nregularly spits up muddy garbage. It's just that now it spits up dead\npeople, too. They say it runs straight through hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the object", "response": "A small, hard-to-make-out item, dripping with mud. You think you can\ncatch the gleam of brass, but beyond that, you can't identify it\nthrough the muck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You clean it", "response": "What do you want to clean the lumpy object with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Towel", "response": "You make short work of the mud, revealing a brass ring. Your towel,\nhowever, is ruined.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean towel", "response": "What do you want to clean the spare towel with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ring", "response": "A shiny brass ring, of the kind often given by devils to their human\nadmirers. Valuable, though perhaps not the sort of thing to be seen\nflaunting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mud", "response": "that makes it impossible to go around. If you want to get anywhere in\nthis mud field, you're forced to let it splatter against one of your\nsides. Circles, you hate mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the maze", "response": "So the geometer stood at the ready, pacing nervously around his\nstudy. Soon, he'd been promised, it would all be complete. Even if\nhe'd contacted them first, he hadn't expected them to actually\nrespond, and he couldn't be more anxious if he tried. Not Eating,\nbarely sleeping, even, in case the chiropterans wanted to make the\nexchange at night. Whether or not they could even give him what he'd\nasked for was unclear as well. Such Entities as them were not to be\ntaken lightly, if they really wanted his entire city in exchange - and\nthat was another thing. What he'd promised them he didn't own, and if\nthey discovered they'd been tricked, they might not uphold their end\nof the bargain. Euclid shuddered at the thought.\n\nYou shut the book. That's not a map at all. Must have been an error at\nthe printer's.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You kick and thrash, trying to keep the muddy water from filling your\nlungs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe water stings your eyes and burns your throat. Every breath you\ntake just brings you closer to the river. If you can't get out now,\nit's over for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "But you aren't in anything at the moment.\n\nAs the waves take you, the last thing you hear is the roar of water.\n\nA slow boat drifts down a silent river. Your surroundings are dark,\nbut you can see everything with awful clarity. You can see the far\nshore in the distance, out of reach.\n\nA skeleton in robes sits at the front of the boat, guiding it along\ndown the river.\n\nAn ancient chess set is tucked away in a far corner of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chess", "response": "A battered chess set. The pieces are made of what looks like crystal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the chess", "response": "The boatman looks at you inquisitively, and you think you see\nsomething glint in his empty eyes. \"Would you care for a game of\nchess?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "The boatman moves a rook to F2. He grins, saying nothing.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Circle to B7\n2: Bishop to A8\n3: Catspaw to D5", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "It's clear that the boatman has you at a disadvantage. It's as though\nhe's playing 3D chess.\n\nThe boatman moves a catspaw to B6. His moves are smooth, confident.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Circle to B2\n2: Catspaw to A1\n3: Bishop to E5\n\nsharp.\"\n2. The ideas and constructs of civilization can always be brought low by the wild animal's grand designs.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You've got him on the ropes with that last move, you're sure of it.\n\nThe boatman moves a circle to H2. His moves are smooth, confident.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Square to D3\n2: Bishop to B2\n3: Flint to E6\n\n3. A stops B and B stops C. All things shall return to me.\"\n4. Infinity stopped with a shot from a gun. To hinder a catspaw, move into a- *the ink is smudged too badly to read*\" 5. If all else fails, go north, into the edge and the black.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You watch passively as the boatman captures several of your pieces.\n\nThe boatman moves a flint to B4. His moves are smooth, confident.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Rook to C5\n2: Bishop to E4\n3: Square to A2", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You knock another of the boatman's pieces from the board triumphantly.\nHe sighs.\n\nof one who's done it a thousand times. \"You never had a chance,\" he\nhisses. \"I've only ever lost once to a Londoner. Strange woman,\" the\nboatman muses. \"I think she actually wrote a book about the\nexperience.\" His gaze lingers on you for a moment, before turning back\nto the river. \"We've arrived, by the way. You might as well get out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "The sound of waves becomes louder and louder, until it is almost\ndeafening. Just like that, you return to yourself.\n\nWhat was once the river Thames cuts through the middle of the city,\ndepositing the dead and detritus alike on its muddy banks. The river\nitself is immediately south. The street is north, and the beach\nstretches on for a while to the west.\n\nYour whole body aches. You must have washed onto the beach - they do\nsay that the stolen river takes a trip through hell. Your brain is on\nfire. But at least you're alive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na brass ring\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na pail\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the house", "response": "A grandiose old home, with a brass-plated door and boarded up windows.\nAs far as you can tell, the only people that have been here in the\nlast ten years have been squatters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(first opening the brass-plated door)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock door with the key", "response": "You unlock the brass-plated door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first opening the brass-plated door)\n\nThe house abandoned. Locked or not, anything of any real value has\nbeen long since ransacked. A door to the west leads outside.\n\nAn unspeakably hideous painting is still here - there's not a looter\nin London that would be caught dead with that thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the painting", "response": "The wild asymmetry in the devil's face is bad enough. Together with\nthe threatening swarm of crows in the background and the way the\npainting manages to suggest that Her Most Circular Majesty is a whore,\nthis is by far the worst painting you've ever seen. The employment of\nlead-based paints means it's not even good kindling. No, the only way\nthis painting might ever be useful would be as some sort of theft\ndeterrent, placed in front of your chiefest treasures to ensure no one\never comes near them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take painting", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The house abandoned. Locked or not, anything of any real value has\nbeen long since ransacked. A door to the west leads outside.\n\nA gold brick is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the painting", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brick", "response": "A brick made from solid gold. Valuable, as gold bricks usually are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Previously, one saw tigers at the zoo. Now, the tigers run the zoo.\nSome of the more mundane exhibits are to the west. The geometrical\ncells are east, and north is the Labyrinth's gift shop. South is the\nexit to Moloch Street.\n\nA tiger in a janitor's uniform can be seen scrubbing the walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine janitor", "response": "A large, magnificent tiger, quietly mopping what looks like a\nbloodstain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to janitor", "response": "\"Hey,\" the tiger says. \"I'm a little busy right now. After I clean\nthis, I need to go feed the penguins - and on top of that, the\nCervine Shuffler in the next exhibit over won't take his\npills.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the janitor about the Cervine Shuffler", "response": "The tiger sighs. \"I don't know what's wrong with him,\" he says. \"I put\nhis pills in his tray, but he won't take them. How am I supposed to\ntake care of these animals if they won't even take their pills?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the janitor about the pills", "response": "\"They're supposed to get it to throw up,\" the tiger explains. \"Just in\ncase he ate something he wasn't supposed to. Or someone.\" The tiger\nshrugs. \"To be fair, I wouldn't take them either if I were him. He\nonly eats meat and meat-adjacent foods.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Out of the many animal exhibits here, this one seems the least likely\nto maim you. A tiger mopping the floors outside reassures you that\nthat 'doesn't usually' happen. But why take chances?\n\nA large beast that only vaguely resembles a deer is here, shuffling\nmorosely around its cage. Every so often, it makes a sickening rattle\nthat could charitably be described as a cough.\n\nA scattering of pills is in the Shuffler's feeding trough, untouched.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the beast", "response": "A huge, hairy creature with antlers and razor-sharp teeth. Its\ncoughing sounds like the wheeze of a dying man.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pills", "response": "Large, slightly greasy pills. They might just cure the Shuffler of\nwhatever ails it. That is, if it actually wanted to eat them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the beast", "response": "The Cervine Shuffler looks at you balefully. It grunts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Previously, one saw tigers at the zoo. Now, the tigers run the zoo.\nSome of the more mundane exhibits are to the west. The geometrical\ncells are east, and north is the Labyrinth's gift shop. South is the\nexit to Moloch Street.\n\nA tiger in a janitor's uniform can be seen scrubbing the walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Tigers hate cheap trinkets, and visitors to the labyrinth are too\nenthralled with the wonders of the natural world to pay a gift shop\nany mind. Nevertheless, the gift shop remains, gathering dust. South\nis the way out.\n\nof the shop. Today, they are distributing free samples.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cart", "response": "LUMPS! The sign reads. RUBBERY! ENIGMATIC! FREE OF CHARGE! You suppose\nthose are decent qualities for lumps to have.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lumps", "response": "Hot, greasy, fried food. As usual, you aren't quite sure what it is\nthat's been fried, only that it came from something living.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lump", "response": "As you take the lumps, something catches on one of your sides, and\nbefore you know it, the cart has completely collapsed. Oil pools at\nthe base of the cart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the lamp", "response": "What do you want to fill the rusty lamp with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oil", "response": "You pour the pint of fry oil into the rusty lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome rubbery lumps\na solid gold brick\na brass ring\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na pail\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp\na pint of fry oil\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Tigers hate cheap trinkets, and visitors to the labyrinth are too\nenthralled with the wonders of the natural world to pay a gift shop\nany mind. Nevertheless, the gift shop remains, gathering dust. South\nis the way out.\n\nA pile of rubble is all that remains of a food cart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Previously, one saw tigers at the zoo. Now, the tigers run the zoo.\nSome of the more mundane exhibits are to the west. The geometrical\ncells are east, and north is the Labyrinth's gift shop. South is the\nexit to Moloch Street.\n\nA tiger in a janitor's uniform can be seen scrubbing the walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Out of the many animal exhibits here, this one seems the least likely\nto maim you. A tiger mopping the floors outside reassures you that\nthat 'doesn't usually' happen. But why take chances?\n\nA large beast that only vaguely resembles a deer is here, shuffling\nmorosely around its cage. Every so often, it makes a sickening rattle\nthat could charitably be described as a cough.\n\nA scattering of pills is in the Shuffler's feeding trough, untouched.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pills in the lumps", "response": "(first taking the pills)\nYou stuff the pills into the lumpy mass. Hopefully this will do\nsomething towards disguising their taste.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put lumps in the trough", "response": "The Shuffler sniffs the lumps cautiously. Then it opens its mouth and\nswallows them, not even bothering to chew.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nSuddenly, the Cervine Shuffler begins to cough loudly. It gags and\nwheezes, straining to push something out from its throat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAfter what feels like an eternity of hacking and sputtering, the\nCervine Shuffler spits a smooth grey stone onto the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the grey stone", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "A smooth, grey stone. Valuable, and only occasionally hairy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Animals aren't the only thing kept in the Labyrinth of Tigers. You are\nin a wide room, the walls lined with various cells behind curtains. A\nsign reminds visitors not to bring mirrors into the exhibit. West is\nthe exit.\n\nA plain green curtain covers a cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the curtain", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the curtain", "response": "You open the curtain. A scruffy-looking square is behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the square", "response": "cage. You're sure it's noticed you. It's just not interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the square", "response": "The square keeps its back turned. \"Don't want to talk to you,\" it\nmutters. \"Don't need to talk to you. We want to leave.\" It hisses.\n\"Come back when you've got what we want.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sign", "response": "NO MIRRORS BEYOND THIS POINT, the sign reads. FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AND\nFOR THE EFFICACY OF OUR PRISON, KEEP MIRRORS AND REFLECTIVE SURFACES\nAWAY FROM THE EXHIBITS, NO MATTER HOW THEY MIGHT PROTEST.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open case", "response": "You open the trophy case, revealing a heartmetal disc, a horse statue\nand a lump of friendly amber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the gold in the case", "response": "The solid gold brick fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bezoar in the case", "response": "The bezoar fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na brass ring\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na pail\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp\na pint of fry oil\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ring", "response": "You put on the brass ring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the ring", "response": "You take off the brass ring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lamp with device", "response": "You light the rusty lamp.\n\nThis small, cramped tunnel runs from north to south between two\nparallel walls. A hole in the western wall leads outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The palace's wine cellar is supposed to be intruder-free, but the\ntrapdoor was left unlocked. Strangely, racks and racks of expensive\nwines still line the walls. South, the trapdoor leads back to the\ntunnels. West is a back door out.\n\nOn one wall is a jeweled sword, apparently used to uncork wine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wine", "response": "can't get anywhere else. But the wines made after are rich, and taste\nlike home. Many, many bottles are arranged here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "A large, curving thing with a gem-encrusted handle. ...Is that a\ndiamond? It certainly looks valuable. It's also decorative, not to\nmention blunt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(first opening the back door)\nYou unlock the door from the inside.\n\nYou are west of the palace, where the back entrance to the building is\nlocated. North is the roof, and to the south, you can see a basalt\nwall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The palace's wine cellar is supposed to be intruder-free, but the\ntrapdoor was left unlocked. Strangely, racks and racks of expensive\nwines still line the walls. South, the trapdoor leads back to the\ntunnels. West is a back door out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This small, cramped tunnel runs from north to south between two\nparallel walls. A hole in the western wall leads outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This small, cramped tunnel runs from north to south between two\nparallel walls. North is a hint of daylight. South, you see the ruins\nof an archway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stand in the ruins of an archway, made from ancient stone. There\nis a complex series of tunnels to the south, and north is the way you\ncame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "A complex system of tunnels forms a winding labyrinth, with exits in\nall directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The maze of tunnels in the west ends here, at a fancy door to the\neast. You can sense a presence behind the door, thrumming with power.\nYou're close.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "An ornate door, made from wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the fancy door)\n\nA small room with rough cave walls, but an inhabited one. Cave\npaintings near the wall serve as decorations, and empty wine bottles\nare scattered all over the room. West is the exit.\n\nAn old wooden desk is here, next to a chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the paintings", "response": "The paintings are crude, but it's clear someone spent a lot of time on\nthem. What they're of is anyone's guess - lines intersect each other\nat seemingly random intervals, shapes overlap one another and fold\ninwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bottles", "response": "Empty bottles of the cheapest alcohol you've ever seen. There must be\nhundreds of them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "A plain wooden writing desk that contains a set of drawers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawers", "response": "You open the drawers, revealing a handwritten book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "(the handwritten book)\nAs if on cue, a line- no, a square- appears out of nowhere behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the square", "response": "He is an infinitely thin straight line - no, some kind of rectangle.\nOr is he a square? He keeps changing. Whatever he is, he is dressed in\na simple robe, and has the look of someone from another time. As a\nsquare, he smiles sadly at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the square", "response": "\"It hurts, being like this.\" The entity blinks at you, as though he's\njust realizing you're here. \"But I'm being rude. You're here for the\nbook, right?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the square about book", "response": "(the handwritten book)\n\"This was supposed to be my life's work,\" he says softly. \"I wanted to\nprove that the third dimension was real so very badly. Back when I was\nEuclid the geometer, instead of being... like this.\" As he says this,\nhe vanishes, only to reappear moments later. \"I'm sorry, Detective.\nIt's so hard to keep myself flat. My body just wants to drift up into\nspace, I suppose. Add that to my list of regrets.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask square about the regrets", "response": "\"This book was supposed to be a log of my travels. The places\nI saw, the things I learned. I wanted to enlighten people, wake them\nup to the glories of the third dimension. And even now, I\nstill do. But I don't know if it was worth it, and I certainly don't\nwant anyone trying to follow in my footsteps.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask square about the travels", "response": "\"I spent hundreds of years travelling the third dimension,\" Euclid\nsays. \"Even if I couldn't really get it, I figured I'd have a look.\nThought I might find another civilization, resources, something. I\nfound two things - You people, in that cavern the bats like to send\npeople to, and nothing. Absolutely nothing. We're all alone in the\nuniverse.\" He shivers. \"It was all for nothing.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the square about the third dimension", "response": "\"Yes, the third dimension is real. Not that anyone wants to listen.\nThey're all so scared that there could be something out there they\ndon't understand, so they try to suppress it. The bats are in\non it too, trying to keep people in the dark.\" He perks up. \"But my\nbook can change all that! Spread the truths of the third dimension to\nthe common man.\"\n\nEuclid clears his throat. \"I want my book to go public, so people will\nknow the truth, but at the same time, I'm not sure if we even should\nbe meddling with the third dimension. Maybe it's better to keep people\nin the dark.\" He gives you a serious look. \"I want to let you have my\nbook, Detective. Give it to a library, sell it - hell, you could even\nburn the damn thing, it's in your hands now. I know you'll do the\nright thing with it, in the end.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask square about the bats", "response": "\"I heard they bought cities. Pages and the rest. I asked them\nfor help with my research, and we made a deal. Of course, they only\nfound out I wasn't the owner of Athens after.\" He shivers. \"I still\ndon't know if what they did was my payment, or my punishment for lying\nto them, but I can't say they didn't give me what I asked for.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the square about Pages", "response": "\"I remember him.\" Euclid glares. \"Listen, Detective, I don't care what\nhe offers you - you can't let him have my book. He helped take down\nLondon, and he's not even fully three dimensional. If he had\na guide to the third dimension, who knows what else he'd be able to\ndo.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the square about London", "response": "(London)\n\"I like this city. The mongolian city - the one before you guys - was\nalright, don't get me wrong, but they really had it out for me. Don't\nthink they agreed with just how... irregular I am. Still, what\nhappened to them was-\" Euclid shudders. \"I'll miss your city, when\nit's your turn to be replaced.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask square about the footsteps", "response": "\"I don't know how it happened, exactly. The bats showed me a\nletter, or maybe it was a word, but something was wrong with\nit - it was too strong, or it wasn't made right or something. It made\nme pass out, and when I woke up, I could see so much more.\" Euclid\nsighs. \"I can't stop seeing it, though. Even when I try, the third\ndimension is always right there, giving me one hell of a headache. I'd\nget rid of it, if I could.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask square about the letter", "response": "\"It looked like a letter, but it was more like a brand. Some burning\nthing, more or less seared itself into my consciousness. I tried to\nrecreate it once, but I ended up throwing out the cast because I\ncouldn't get anything better than scrap metal. Something that\nimportant needs expensive, sentimental objects I just couldn't quite\nfind.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "Which do you mean, the handwritten book or the maze map?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Handwritten", "response": "The book contains many detailed mathematical illustrations. Every page\nis filled to the brim with small, neat handwriting. Half of it is\nwritten in ancient greek, and the rest is in mongolian. Shame. It\nprobably would have been fascinating.\n\nYou find a small bookmark, tucked away between the pages.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine bookmark", "response": "A thin bookmark with detailed geometrical patterns. The solid gold\ninlay makes it quite valuable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Euclid about gold", "response": "The entity just stares at you. One of his lines fades in and out of\nreality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na bookmark\na handwritten book\na jeweled sword\na brass ring\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na pail\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A small room with rough cave walls, but an inhabited one. Cave\npaintings near the wall serve as decorations, and empty wine bottles\nare scattered all over the room. West is the exit.\n\nAn entity stands in the room, giving you a headache.\n\nAn old wooden desk is here, next to a chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chair", "response": "An old chair with a curved back. It is made of wood, but surprisingly\nlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are in the middle of a broad hallway from east to west. Some unlit\nglass tubes are here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at tubes", "response": "An ordinary glass tube. If you look closely, you can see a colorful\ngas inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tubes", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "here. A few small fires can be seen, and the scent of gasoline is\nheavy in the air. The exit is a nondescript door to the east. Welcome\nto the Laboratory of Manufactured Light.\n\nA pentagon sits in the lab, reading.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Animals aren't the only thing kept in the Labyrinth of Tigers. You are\nin a wide room, the walls lined with various cells behind curtains. A\nsign reminds visitors not to bring mirrors into the exhibit. West is\nthe exit.\n\nBeneath the green curtain, a scruffy-looking square is in a cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the mirror to the square", "response": "The square thanks you, snatching the mirror. \"Sanitized,\" it remarks\ncoolly. \"Disgusting, but we can work with that.\" The scruffy-looking\nsquare shoves itself into the mirror with a sickening crack and is\ngone. Your mirror falls to the south side of the cage, but something\nis different about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "A small mirror with green-tinted glass. When you touch the surface, it\never so slightly gives way. You could enter it, if you wanted to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are in your small apartment. It's a cool London morning, and your\nwindows are ever so slightly fogged up. A door is set into the west\nwall of your home.\n\nIn one corner of the room is an old wooden trophy case.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter it", "response": "You push yourself into the mirror, cutting yourself slightly on jagged\nedges you didn't know were there.\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]## Amber Woods\nYou are in a thick forest, where the ambient light is a soft shade of\namber. You are in the land-behind-mirrors, home of the glass serpents.\nYou are nowhere that is real. The forest stretches out in every\ndirection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in a thick forest, where the ambient light is a soft shade of\namber. You are in the land-behind-mirrors, home of the glass serpents.\nYou are nowhere that is real. The forest stretches out in every\ndirection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A path from west to east snakes through the thick foliage. Off the\npath to the north, you can see something gleam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You've never heard of an orchard with just one tree. Here it is,\nthough. Densely packed trees surround you on all sides, but open up\never so slightly to the south.\n\nA gorgeous tree stands at the center of a wide clearing, lush with\npromises it may yet keep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "The most beautiful tree you've ever seen shines when you look at it,\nforcing you to squint. Shining, silver sap drips slowly from the tree\nin rivulets, ready for collection. A glassy cluster of fruit hangs on\nthe tree, waiting to be plucked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sap", "response": "Silver sap, from the place that is not. It shines brightly, but isn't\nenough to provide any real light. Perhaps if you were to put it\nsomewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fruit", "response": "A glassy cluster of fruit, like a fly's eye hewn from crystal.\nSolacefruit is rare, valuable, and entirely toxic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fruit", "response": "You remove the fruit. Without it, the tree doesn't catch the light as\nnicely as it used to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A path from the northwest bends around to the east. The trees here\nseem to grow in strange directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "North is the entrance to a sinuous structure of wood and thorns.\nSomething shapeless lives here, you're sure of it. What remains to be\nseen, however, is whether or not they'll be able to catch you\ntrespassing. Southeast, a path leads back into the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Leafy walls make up a large entry hall. Tapestries can be seen on\neither side of the room. Off to the west, a passageway lined with\nthorns can be seen. East, the walls change from leaves to mahogany.\nOther, smaller passages pepper the wall like holes, but they are far\ntoo small for you to enter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tapestries", "response": "surrounding jungle. Each one depicts a writhing mass of snakes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A cavernous room, with thorny walls and no windows. Cages made from\nstiff briars are here, wrapping painfully around their dead-eyed\nprisoners. Most of them are motionless, but one stirs to look at you\nwhen you enter the room. To the east, the rest of the castle beckons\nyou.\n\nAn imprisoned heptagon watches the room with its too-many eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the heptagon", "response": "Each one of his seven eyes is fixed on you with rapt attention. He\nsees you looking at him, and coughs, politely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the heptagon", "response": "\"Hello, Detective. I believe, taking into account the\npredicament I am in-\" The briars squeeze the heptagon\ntighter, as if in response. \"-that you can help me with a problem of\nmine.\" He smiles wearily. \"And maybe, I can do you a favor as\nwell.\"\n\nOut of the corner of your eye, you see a flash of green. A trick of\nthe light. It's nothing. Don't worry about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the heptagon about predicament", "response": "\"I've been their prisoner for quite a while now,\" the heptagon\nexplains. \"The kings behind mirrors. I can't say for how\nlong, time is funny here.\" He continues as if he's talking about what\nhe had for breakfast this morning. \"They prefer more normal-looking\nshapes, so they've left me alone. But I'm tired of living in their\ncastle, eating their 'food', watching the things they do to decent\nshapes.\" He leans towards you. \"I want to escape, Detective.\nAnd I want you to help me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the heptagon about kings", "response": "\"They're nothing more than snakes,\" The heptagon spits. \"Literal\nsnakes. And the things that live in the corners of your eyes. You'll\nhave to be careful around them, or they'll take your skin and wear it.\nPompous bastards,\" he mutters to himself. \"Trapped in some imaginary\nwasteland, and they call themselves kings.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the heptagon about the escape", "response": "\"Getting out's possible, in theory,\" the heptagon says. \"Not as easy\nas getting in, but possible, using the same, ah, methods. This is the\nland-behind-mirrors, after all.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the heptagon about the land", "response": "(land-behind-mirrors)\n\"The nature of the place is that it defies nature.\" The heptagon\nshrugs. \"They can't exist in the real world, not without their\nborrowed geometry, so they've resigned themselves to be the kings only\nof dreams, and all things behind mirrors.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the heptagon about tree", "response": "\"I can't help you there, Detective. All this time behind the glass\nhasn't been good for my mind.\"\n\nYou think you hear a hissing sound. Quiet, at first, but getting\nlouder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Leafy walls make up a large entry hall. Tapestries can be seen on\neither side of the room. Off to the west, a passageway lined with\nthorns can be seen. East, the walls change from leaves to mahogany.\nOther, smaller passages pepper the wall like holes, but they are far\ntoo small for you to enter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The castle's treasure vault is located to the east. The imposing door\nhas a small plaque attached to it. West is the exit.\n\nSix gas lamps are embedded in the vault door.\n\nA piano is set into one wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plaque", "response": "PLAY THE SEQUENCE TO ENTER THE VAULT, the plaque reads. A piece of\nscratch paper is taped next to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the scratch paper", "response": "Some notes in borderline illegible handwriting.\nGREEN = RIGHT NOTE, RIGHT PLACE\nBLUE = RIGHT NOTE, WRONG PLACE\nPLAY SIX NOTES AT A TIME (A-G)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the piano", "response": "A small mahogany piano that can play notes from A-G. Most of the keys\nare wood, but one is made from ivory.\n\nThe hissing won't stop. Not even when you plug your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "As you pass through the threshhold, the hissing stops abruptly.\n\nNorth is the entrance to a sinuous structure of wood and thorns.\nSomething shapeless lives here, you're sure of it. What remains to be\nseen, however, is whether or not they'll be able to catch you\ntrespassing. Southeast, a path leads back into the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A path from the west winds around to the south. It is easy to get lost\nhere.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The jungle is too thick for you to take more than a couple of steps in\nthat direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "The most beautiful tree you've ever seen shines when you look at it,\nforcing you to squint. Shining, silver sap drips slowly from the tree\nin rivulets, ready for collection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sap", "response": "Silver sap, from the place that is not. It shines brightly, but isn't\nenough to provide any real light. Perhaps if you were to put it\nsomewhere.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You've never heard of an orchard with just one tree. Here it is,\nthough. Densely packed trees surround you on all sides, but open up\never so slightly to the south.\n\nAn ordinary tree is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A path from west to east snakes through the thick foliage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "(to the sevenfold panoptic)\n\"Listen, Detective, I really do need your help with my little\npredicament.\" He swats at a strand of thorns\nconversationally. \"Please? I might be able to do you a favor,\nin return.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the sap", "response": "(to the sevenfold panoptic)\nThe heptagon declines. \"You'll want to keep your possessions about\nyou, Detective. Unless you want to wake up as less than you were.\"\n\nOut of the corner of your eye, you see a flash of green. A trick of\nthe light. It's nothing. Don't worry about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play DFFGBB", "response": "You play 'DFFGBB' on the piano.\nThree of the gas lamps light up blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play AAAAAA", "response": "You play 'AAAAAA' on the piano.\nOne of the gas lamps lights up green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play BBBBBB", "response": "You play 'BBBBBB' on the piano.\nOne of the gas lamps lights up green.\n\nYou think you hear a hissing sound. Quiet, at first, but getting\nlouder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the CCCCCC", "response": "You play 'CCCCCC' on the piano.\nOne of the gas lamps lights up green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the DDDDDD", "response": "You play 'DDDDDD' on the piano.\nOne of the gas lamps lights up green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play EEEEEE", "response": "You play 'EEEEEE' on the piano.\nOne of the gas lamps lights up green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play GGGGGG", "response": "You play 'GGGGGG' on the piano.\nOne of the gas lamps lights up green.\n\nThe hissing won't stop. Not even when you plug your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play abcdeg", "response": "You play 'ABCDEG' on the piano.\nThree of the gas lamps light up green.\nThree of the gas lamps light up blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play abcfff", "response": "You play 'ABCFFF' on the piano.\nOne of the gas lamps lights up green.\nTwo of the gas lamps light up blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play abffff", "response": "You play 'ABFFFF' on the piano.\nTwo of the gas lamps light up blue.\n\nOut of the corner of your eye, you see a flash of green. A trick of\nthe light. It's nothing. Don't worry about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the FFFDFG", "response": "You play 'FFFDFG' on the piano.\nTwo of the gas lamps light up green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play beffaf", "response": "You play 'BEFFAF' on the piano.\nThree of the gas lamps light up green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play becdag", "response": "You play 'BECDAG' on the piano.\nSix of the gas lamps light up green.\nYou hear a click in the vault door. One of the keys in the piano pops\nout.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "If a piano's key were to exist, it would be made out of valuable\nivory.\n\nYou think you hear a hissing sound. Quiet, at first, but getting\nlouder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first opening the vault door)\n\nRiches beyond your wildest imagination are here. Precious stones,\nartifacts, even gold coins float around in your peripheral vision. To\nthe west is the door out of the vault.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the coins", "response": "Beautiful masterworks, silver and jewels. But they're all out of\nfocus, and thinking about them too hard gives you a headache.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The castle's treasure vault is located to the east. The imposing door\nhas a small plaque attached to it. West is the exit.\n\nSix gas lamps are embedded in the vault door.\n\nA piano is set into one wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Leafy walls make up a large entry hall. Tapestries can be seen on\neither side of the room. Off to the west, a passageway lined with\nthorns can be seen. East, the walls change from leaves to mahogany.\nOther, smaller passages pepper the wall like holes, but they are far\ntoo small for you to enter.\n\nThe hissing won't stop. Not even when you plug your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are in the jungle. Thick, leafy vines surround you, and in the\ndistance, you can hear the chirping of many-throated birds. The region\nto the west is blocked off by densely-packed trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The jungle is too thick for you to take more than a couple of steps in\nthat direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You stand at the center of a ruined structure. Bright green vines\ntwist around bits of rubble. There was something for you here, once.\nBut not any more. A path leads north, and to the east, the jungle\nbecomes impassable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rubble", "response": "Careful, geometrical lines carved into the ancient bricks mark this as\na shape-made structure. It must have been something to behold, in its\ntime.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The jungle is thick, and the air is heavy and warm. All around you are\ntrees. Far to the south, through a curtain of leaves, you can see\nsomething shine with borrowed light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are in a field of mirrors at the edge of the jungle, each one\nfixed in the ground. Many reflect parts of London you recognize, but\nmany don't reflect places at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at mirrors", "response": "In the sea of mirrors, you find yourself drawn to two - a dark mirror\nand a red mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dark mirror", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A\nseven-eyed shape sits in a cage. Thorns twist around and around the\nheptagon, burying it, but it does not react.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A shop\nowner walks through stacks upon stacks of ancient junk. She fishes\nsomething out of a pile: A child's doll, with a thin dusting of\nsomething that could be mistaken for snow. She weeps. Oh, how she\nweeps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A clay\ntriangle drinks a beer that begs for its life from a mug that's always\nscreaming. It's not enough to forget. It's never enough to forget.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A\npentagon searches his missing library card. But no matter how hard he\nlooks, he can't seem to find it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A\ntriangle is born. A triangle grasps the horror of its brief existence.\nA triangle is gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A\nlibrarian is handed a book that details the exact time and date of an\naccident that will kill thousands. She assigns it a number, and\nshelves it. She moves on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A snake\nwatches shapes go about their lives from a distance. It could not get\ncloser to them, even if it wanted to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - An\narchaeologist digs through rock. It doesn't matter how long she digs\nfor, the only thing she ever finds is stone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A\ngeometer prepares to make a bargain it knows it cannot uphold. It\nthinks, perhaps it hopes, that by the time its deception is\ndiscovered, it will be long gone from this dimension.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "approach it. Reflected in the mirror is someone else's dream - A tiger\nmops blood from a nondescript wall, but it keeps coming back. There is\nso much blood on his paws.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the red mirror", "response": "The mirror reflects a boat, drifting slowly down a quiet river. The\nsurface ripples, concealing something sharp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The jungle is thick, and the air is heavy and warm. All around you are\ntrees. Far to the south, through a curtain of leaves, you can see\nsomething shine with borrowed light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "(to the sevenfold panoptic)\n\"Listen, Detective, I really do need your help with my little\npredicament.\" He swats at a strand of thorns\nconversationally. \"Please? I might be able to do you a favor,\nin return.\"\n\nOut of the corner of your eye, you see a flash of green. A trick of\nthe light. It's nothing. Don't worry about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ring bell", "response": "The bell makes a pleasant ringing sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan ivory key\nsome brilliant sap\na solacefruit\na chair\na bookmark\na handwritten book\na jeweled sword\na brass ring\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na pail\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "A cavernous room, with thorny walls and no windows. Cages made from\nstiff briars are here, wrapping painfully around their dead-eyed\nprisoners. Most of them are motionless, but one stirs to look at you\nwhen you enter the room. To the east, the rest of the castle beckons\nyou.\n\nAn imprisoned heptagon watches the room with its too-many eyes.\n\nAn image comes to you. A ball of serpents, twisted together and the\npurest green. You can't stop thinking about them. You'd like to stop\nthinking about them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the briars", "response": "Cutting it up would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA seething mass has lodged itself in your mind. Visitors aren't\nwelcome in their castle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou're not quite sure if your mind is your own. You're not quite sure\nif your body is your own. The longer you stay in this castle, the more\nof your geometry belongs to the snakes. Get out. Get out now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nWe are the kings behind mirrors. We are the glass serpents. We rule\nunreality, and soon, we will rule reality too. This triangle is ours,\nand will be ours, and has always been ours.\n\nThe last thing you hear before you lose consciousness is high,\nmany-voiced laughter.\n\nA slow boat rests in a silent river. Your surroundings are dark, but\nyou can see everything with awful clarity. The far shore is in the\ndistance, out of reach.\n\nA skeleton in robes sits at the front of the boat, guiding it along\ndown the river.\n\nAn ancient chess set is tucked away in a far corner of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "The boatman moves a catspaw to E8. He watches for your next move.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Rook to B6\n2: Catspaw to G5\n3: Bishop to C1\n\nPlease enter a number, 1-3.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You try a move you vaguely recall hearing about. To your surprise, it\nworks perfectly.\n\nThe boatman moves a flint to E1. He grins, saying nothing.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Flint to D2\n2: Rook to H9\n3: Bishop to A3", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You watch passively as the boatman captures several of your pieces.\n\nThe boatman moves a square to A1. His moves are smooth, confident.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Flint to B7\n2: Catspaw to H9\n3: Square to A3", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You capture one of the boatman's pieces, and he captures three of\nyours. The game progresses.\n\nThe boatman moves a circle to D8. His moves are smooth, confident.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Square to H6\n2: Flint to E5\n3: Bishop to A3", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You knock another of the boatman's pieces from the board triumphantly.\nHe sighs.\n\nof one who's done it a thousand times. \"You never had a chance,\" he\nhisses. \"I've only ever lost once to a Londoner. Strange woman,\" the\nboatman muses. \"I think she actually wrote a book about the\nexperience.\" His gaze lingers on you for a moment, before turning back\nto the river. \"We've arrived, by the way. You might as well get out.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "A slow boat rests in a silent river. Your surroundings are dark, but\nyou can see everything with awful clarity. The boat is parked on the\nshore to the north.\n\nA skeleton in robes sits at the front of the boat, guiding it along\ndown the river.\n\nAn ancient chess set is tucked away in a far corner of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take chess", "response": "The boatman growls at you. \"If you'd like to play,\" he spits, \"you can\nask.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The sound of waves becomes louder and louder, until it is almost\ndeafening. Just like that, you return to yourself.\n\nWhat was once the river Thames cuts through the middle of the city,\ndepositing the dead and detritus alike on its muddy banks. The river\nitself is immediately south. The street is north, and the beach\nstretches on for a while to the west.\n\nYour whole body aches. You must have washed onto the beach - they do\nsay that the stolen river takes a trip through hell. Your brain is on\nfire. But at least you're alive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in your small apartment. It's a cool London morning, and your\nwindows are ever so slightly fogged up. A door is set into the west\nwall of your home.\n\nIn one corner of the room is an old wooden trophy case.\n\nYou can also see a green-glass mirror (empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the case", "response": "An old trophy case, with thirteen slots of specific sizes and shapes.\nFive of the case's slots have been filled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open case", "response": "You open the trophy case, revealing a bezoar, a solid gold brick, a\nheartmetal disc, a horse statue and a lump of friendly amber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put fruit in case", "response": "The solacefruit fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bookmark in the case", "response": "The bookmark fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ring in the case", "response": "The brass ring fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the case", "response": "In the trophy case are a brass ring, a bookmark, a solacefruit, a\njeweled sword, a bezoar, a solid gold brick, a heartmetal disc, a\nhorse statue and a lump of friendly amber.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go down", "response": "That's impossible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lacre", "response": "There's no way you're going to touch that stuff. Not with your bare\nhands, anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the pail", "response": "'Use' isn't specific enough. Why don't you try:\nLighting\nDrinking\nAttaching\nDigging\nPulling\nPlaying\nUnlocking\nReading\nDrying", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ritual", "response": "The instructions to some kind of rite, in shaky writing.\n\n1. The shape the sacred shape never more never less always eight the\nsacred shape LIGHT THEM.\n2. Ring the bell to get the audience's attention\n3. Repeat after me.\n\nOn the back is an incantation, though much of the ink is smudged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine incantation", "response": "The instructions are written in the queen's english, but the\nincantation is written in mongolian - the language of the fourth city.\nBut it's not really the right time for mongolian conjuring, so you\ndecide not to.You don't understand a word of it. Maybe if you did\nyou'd be able to read it out loud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Here in a broad cavern, across a sea of foamy pits, is a stone altar.\nWest is a cage-elevator, situated on a flat stone clearing. A\nstairwell south leads even further into the bowels of the earth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan ivory key\nsome brilliant sap\na chair\na handwritten book\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na pail\na brass key\na bell\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\na detective's fedora (being worn)\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A small room with rough cave walls, but an inhabited one. Cave\npaintings near the wall serve as decorations, and empty wine bottles\nare scattered all over the room. West is the exit.\n\nAn entity stands in the room, giving you a headache.\n\nAn old wooden desk is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the archaeologist about temple", "response": "\"The amber is weird,\" the archaeologist admits. \"Doesn't look like any\nfourth city temple I know about.\" She sighs. \"I guess I'd better get\nback to applying for grants.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clay", "response": "A triangle, but made from sturdy clay. One of the creatures that began\nto appear here and there after the shift, albeit to fill a role\nLondon's had for centuries. This one looks bored.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stand in a grand hall, built from a rich marble. Even weathered by\ntime, it's magnificent. The exit is to the north. A side-room, so\nsmall that it seems like an afterthought, is to the west. Presumably\nthere were other chambers here, but they've long since been buried in\ndebris.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the debris", "response": "Solid, heavy rubble prevents your passage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "than constructed. East, a jagged tunnel leads back into the temple you\ncame from.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light candles", "response": "What do you want to light the candles with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lighter", "response": "The candle's flames roar to life as you light them. Each one is a\nbright point of light, and for a moment, you can almost see the shape\nthey form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ring bell", "response": "The bell makes a loud, hollow sound that makes contact with your lines\nand stays there. Your vision blurs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the incantation", "response": "\"I address you, who live in the directions of up and down.\" You begin\nto read aloud in a voice that is not your own, and in a language\nyou've never heard before. \"I call upon a world I will never be able\nto see, in its grand infinities, that it may speak to me, and that for\na moment, that I might begin to understand. There is a shape beyond a\ncircle, and it is you, it is Euclid, the square that has been squared,\nspare me your fate and give me your lines.\" You raise your voice. \"I\nopen the door!\"\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]You feel the world shake around you, hear\nthe distant cry of an unfamiliar animal, but nothing appears. The\ntriangle, resting against the wall behind you, stands shakily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine triangle", "response": "Unlike the skeleton you remember seeing, this triangle is alive. Even\nif they are bleeding slightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "(to the three-sided occultist)\n\"I always wondered if it would have worked,\" the occultist says. \"We\nwere so close to completing the ritual, before- well, before. And we\ntried so hard. Our cult, that is.\" They sigh. \"But after\nseventy years of waiting, I guess this was what I was waiting for.\"\nThe occultist hands you a wooden comb, carved to resemble a hawk.\n\"Thanks for trying, I suppose. For tying up that last loose end.\"\n\nYou smell smoke, and feel the temperature start to rise. \"Our time's\nalmost up,\" the occultist says. \"I don't have anything to keep me\nhere, not any more.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the comb", "response": "A wooden comb, carved and painted to look like a hawk. The fact that\nit's a genuine fourth city relic, albeit one in suspiciously good\ncondition, makes it rather valuable.\n\nbefore your eyes. \"Goodbye,\" says the occultist quietly. \"And thank\nyou.\"\n\nA clearing full of old, burnt rubble. Any structure that might have\nbeen here has been long since destroyed, but perhaps a few relics\nremain. East is the entrance to the Forgotten Quarter.\n\nThe memory of smoke stings your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stand at the edge of an ancient city - The Forgotten Quarter. Or\nwhat's left of it, anyway. What wasn't destroyed by London was\nstripped away by looters, making the whole place feel rather empty. To\nthe north, the empty ruins connect to an empty street. Far to the west\nis a nondescript pile of rubble. South is an archeological dig site.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A clearing full of old, burnt rubble. Any structure that might have\nbeen here has been long since destroyed, but perhaps a few relics\nremain. East is the entrance to the Forgotten Quarter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A magnificent dig site, heading into the stone that encases a lot of\nthe ruins. This one is almost abandoned, though. The way out of the\nForgotten Quarter is to the north. The entrance to an ancient temple\nis visible to the south.\n\nA clay triangle is hard at work at the dig site.\n\nA bored archaeologist lies on a crate, worn out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the archaeologist", "response": "\"I can't thank you enough,\" the archaeologist says. \"After my\ncrew quit, I didn't know what to do, but Brick's been a\nlifesaver. I call him Brick, since they're made of clay- we've been\ngetting along great. Sometimes, we even finish each other's...\" The\nclay triangle stares into space. \"...Sentences.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the archaeolo about the pavilion", "response": "Which do you mean, the pavilion or the distant pavilion?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "First", "response": "about the first mural.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "What do you want to dig?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the comb in the case", "response": "The accipitrine comb fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the case", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe green-glass mirror doesn't seem to fit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light tubes", "response": "What do you want to light the arc light with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The house abandoned. Locked or not, anything of any real value has\nbeen long since ransacked. A door to the west leads outside.\n\nYou can see an unspeakably hideous painting here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb bin", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The place has a rather homey atmosphere. Ancient objects of all shapes\nand sizes are for sale along the walls, though most of them just look\nlike junk. Outside, the desolate lane awaits. In the east wall of the\nshop is the door to a back room.\n\nA beautiful old rug is spread out across the floor of the shop. There\nis no price tag.\n\nRunning the shop is a weary antiquarian.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show painting", "response": "(to the weary antiquarian)\nThe weary antiquarian is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The Lair Of Mr. Pages\nInstead of the back room of an antique shop, you appear to have\nstumbled onto some kind of chair warehouse. A chairhouse, if you will.\nAntique furniture has been placed in neat piles around the room. The\nantique shop proper is west.\n\nMr. Pages himself, conspicuously without his usual flock of guards and\nassistants, lounges in an old Queen Anne seat. This must be important.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the chair", "response": "(to Mr. Pages)\nMr. Pages does not move or speak for a long time. When he does, it is\nto grab you in a tight hug, pressing his leathery bulk against your\nlines. \"My passion for furnishments!\" He squeals. \"You recallembered!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The place has a rather homey atmosphere. Ancient objects of all shapes\nand sizes are for sale along the walls, though most of them just look\nlike junk. Outside, the desolate lane awaits. In the east wall of the\nshop is the door to a back room.\n\nA beautiful old rug is spread out across the floor of the shop. There\nis no price tag.\n\nRunning the shop is a weary antiquarian.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "If anyone hears you talking that way, you'll be done for.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lacre", "response": "What do you want to light the lacre with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the pail", "response": "What do you want to fill the pail with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lacre", "response": "You shovel some lacre into the pail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put fedora in the pail", "response": "(first taking it off)\nYou drop the detective's fedora into the pail.\n\nThe liquid in the pail fizzes, sparks, and dissipates, turning a dull\nred.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe surface of the snow-foam warps and bubbles. The pail disintegrates\nand a snow-triangle, much smaller than you but with the same\nproportions, crawls out from its remains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look athe snow-triangle", "response": "An exquisite rendition of a shape, made from dense white foam. It\nmakes acute equilateral triangle, if you do say so yourself.\n\nYou see your snow-triangle start to unravel. A dusting of ivory powder\nfalls from one of its sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour snow-triangle watches as one of its sides caves in. Snow-foam\npools around it, viscous and thick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe snow-triangle stumbles towards you. It tries to cling to you, but\nits lines collapse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You takthe snow-triangle", "response": "I don't suppose the snow-triangle would care for that.\n\nThe snow-triangle looks at you with what's left of its eye. Something\nshines there, bitter and sharp. \"Goodbye,\" it says, and melts\ncompletely.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Here in a broad cavern, across a sea of foamy pits, is a stone altar.\nWest is a cage-elevator, situated on a flat stone clearing. A\nstairwell south leads even further into the bowels of the earth.\n\nA puddle is here, fizzing ever so slightly. A shard glints out from\nthe middle of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shard", "response": "A glistening ivory shard. It is as cold and hard as ice, but it won't\nmelt. You know it won't. It is valuable, whatever else it might be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na snow shard\na jeweled sword\na brass ring (being worn)\nan unspeakably hideous painting\na green-glass mirror\nan ivory key\nsome brilliant sap\na handwritten book\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na brass key\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ring in the case", "response": "(first taking it off)\nThe brass ring fits perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the case", "response": "An old trophy case, with thirteen slots of specific sizes and shapes.\nEleven of the case's slots have been filled.\n\nIn the trophy case are a snow shard, a jeweled sword, a brass ring, an\naccipitrine comb, a bookmark, a solacefruit, a bezoar, a solid gold\nbrick, a heartmetal disc, a horse statue and a lump of friendly amber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nan unspeakably hideous painting\na green-glass mirror\nan ivory key\nsome brilliant sap\na handwritten book\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na brass key\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the book in the case", "response": "Which do you mean, the handwritten book or the maze map?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nAs the waves take you, the last thing you hear is the roar of water.\n\nA slow boat rests in a silent river. Your surroundings are dark, but\nyou can see everything with awful clarity. The far shore is in the\ndistance, out of reach.\n\nA skeleton in robes sits at the front of the boat, guiding it along\ndown the river.\n\nAn ancient chess set is tucked away in a far corner of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the chess", "response": "The boatman looks at you inquisitively, and you think you see\nsomething glint in his empty eyes. \"Would you care for a game of\nchess?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "The boatman moves a flint to D2. His moves are smooth, confident.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Square to D8\n2: Rook to B9\n3: Bishop to H5", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You've got him on the ropes with that last move, you're sure of it.\n\nThe boatman moves a rook to E7. His moves are smooth, confident.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Catspaw to D6\n2: Bishop to C3\n3: Circle to G2", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You knock another of the boatman's pieces from the board triumphantly.\nHe sighs.\n\nThe boatman moves a catspaw to C4. His moves are smooth, confident.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Rook to C2\n2: Square to G4\n3: Circle to B5", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You try a move you vaguely recall hearing about. To your surprise, it\nworks perfectly.\n\nThe boatman moves a circle to G3. He grins, saying nothing.\n\nIt's your turn.\n\n1: Bishop to D6\n2: Circle to H4\n3: Flint to B1", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You knock another of the boatman's pieces from the board triumphantly.\nHe sighs.\n\nThe boatman just stares when you finally capture his circle. He hands\nyou one of his catspaws, to your surprise. \"Take this,\" he says. \"I\ndon't often get a real opponent.\" His gaze lingers on you for a moment\nwith something like respect, and then he turns back to the river.\n\"We've arrived, by the way. You might as well get out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Catspaw", "response": "A catspaw. It can move diagonally, or in an L, or not at all, but\nnever all at once. This one is made of a valuable coral that gleams\nlike a brilliant gem.\n\nApart from the boat, drifting gently down the river, nothing moves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "The sound of waves becomes louder and louder, until it is almost\ndeafening. Just like that, you return to yourself.\n\nWhat was once the river Thames cuts through the middle of the city,\ndepositing the dead and detritus alike on its muddy banks. The river\nitself is immediately south. The street is north, and the beach\nstretches on for a while to the west.\n\nYour whole body aches. You must have washed onto the beach - they do\nsay that the stolen river takes a trip through hell. Your brain is on\nfire. But at least you're alive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Catspaw in the case", "response": "built to hold it, the pieces start to fall into place. This was never\na trophy case, it was a mold. And you have filled it - painstakingly,\nlovingly - with the treasures of the world. Brass from the devils,\nfoam from the deepest pits, even the idea of ivory, stolen from the\nserpent lords themselves. The shape that you have made is not fire,\nbut it burns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The only thing in the room is the burning symbol. Everything else is\njust background noise.\n\nexist - sits in your room and smolders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sigil", "response": "An Unmappable Direction. A raging inferno at the edge of your\nconsciousness. A dot, then a line, then a square, and then you, as you\nwere always meant to be.\n\nThe sigil is a command, an exigent order followed by a shower of\nsparks. The sigil is two words. The sigil is:\n\nGO UP.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "You are not north of London but above it. Shapes go about their daily\nlives in little pentagonal buildings, and from here they might as well\nbe ants. Only the Bazaar is anything other than flat, its spines and\nspires somehow managing to point up in ways you never noticed before\nnow. You can see the rest of the world, the one London was stolen from\nso many years ago, as another flat plane far above you. When people\nclaimed that London went down, they might have been right. And above\nall that? Space, an infinite cosmos of secrets, and the only way to go\nis up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You're going to leave them in the dust. Flat, puny shapes, with flat,\npuny dreams. Yours is the third dimension now, and the greater\nuniverse, and abilities beyond mortal comprehension. It doesn't hurt\nyou like it does Euclid because your awakening wasn't some poorly\ndrawn sketch, given to a lazy liar by bats living large on borrowed\npower. You took the long road and built your own third-dimensional\npath with the things you've gathered, and now you're ready to leave\nthis world behind for the cosmic wilderness.\n\nEnd your journey here? (You will be able to reverse this decision, but\nwhy would you want to?)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You can do a lot of things now, but you can't phase through a solid\nplane.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan unspeakably hideous painting\na green-glass mirror\nsome brilliant sap\na handwritten book\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na brass key\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Up past the gate, and up a little further. You depart for the infinite\ncosmos feeling giddy, but quickly decide it's not for you. There's\nnothing for you in this grand, empty place. What would you\ndo? Live as a thrall to a monstrous star, burn both ends of the candle\nand yourself to a crisp? You return, reluctantly, to London, and to\nyour life as a shape. Even with the money you later find on your\ndoorstep, thanking you for the beauticious chair, you can't live off\nyour savings forever. You once again take up your day job. Taking your\nnew perspective with you, of course.\n\nAs for the book? Well, it's yours, isn't it? Euclid gave it to you.\nAnd once you can get it translated, you'll know everything he knows\nabout the third dimension. All the secrets and little tricks that come\nfrom two thousand years of exploration, tucked securely away in your\npocket.\n\nCrime demands your attention now. You can see it all from above. Every\ntheft, every murder. What was concealed behind closed doors is so very\nvisible from above. Not that you could ever tell the constables that.\nInstead, you spin them a tale - you knew they were the murderer from\nthe mud on their boots. Their handwriting can attest to their guilt,\nsurely. And so on and so forth. Pretty quickly, people begin to take\nnotice, but not nearly as much as you notice them. You see everything\nthat happens in the city all the time, sometimes even in dreams. You\nare the panopticon that is forever staring into space. You watch a\nthousand tiny shapes commit a thousand tiny sins a day, and you cannot\npossibly punish all of them. There's not enough time. There's never\nenough time.\n\nYou are the greatest detective London has ever seen.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You give the handwritten book", "response": "(to Mr. Pages)\nMr. Pages snatches the book from you, squirrelling it away in the\nfolds of his robes. \"You'll get your reward in due time,\" he hisses.\n\"All in due time.\" He doesn't seem like he's planning on destroying it\nany time soon. Perhaps he really is the book collector his name makes\nhim out to be.\n\nWith the book firmly in the claws of Mr. Pages, your job is done. Your\nreward should arrive in 5-7 business days, and after that? Well, you\ndon't know. Perhaps Pages will simply add the book to his collection,\nand it will never again see the light of day. Perhaps he's got bigger\nplans in store. Or perhaps the book didn't contain anything he didn't\nalready know. This hardly matters to you, though. You're about to be a\nvery rich Detective.\n\nEnd your journey here? (You will be able to reverse this decision.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "assuaged when the money from Mr. Pages arrives on your doorstep, crate\nby heavy crate. It's a drop in the bucket for something like him, but\nfor you it's enough to live not only comfortably, but glamorously. And\nthat's only the beginning of it. Soon, other high-profile individuals\nstart to make requests of you, each one taking you ever higher, ever\ncloser to the shadowy bats at the very top.\n\nYou don't hear from Euclid again. If he's happy with what happened to\nhis book, if he feels betrayed, you never do find out. Not that it's\nreally his book any more. It belongs to Mr. Pages now, along with the\nvaluable knowledge inside. You're useful to the bats, and that means\nPages trusts you enough to show you a little of what he's learned. He\ncan move like Euclid, when he wants to.\n\nThey talk about new cities sometimes. About bringing them 'down' to\nwherever London is, crushing it and its citizens 'under' their\nmetropolitan weight. But that's not for a long time. You take another\nswig from your glass of expensive champagne, and close your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light handwritten book with lighter", "response": "Maybe the public is better off in two dimensions. Maybe you just want\nto deny Pages his prize. Either way, ancient paper makes excellent\nkindling, and the book goes up in flames.\n\nWith the book destroyed, the city is the same as it ever was. No\nancient entity stumbles in, espousing the glories of the third\ndimension, and the lives of London's citizens are not uprooted in the\nslightest. Perhaps it's for the best. Change can be hard, and new\ndimensions can be dangerous.\n\nEnd your journey here? (You will be able to reverse this decision.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "You never get the money you were promised for a job well done. Mr.\nPages does, however, pay you for the chair you brought him. It's a\nlot, but not enough to last, and you soon find yourself returning to\nwork. Luckily for you, even just being hired by Mr. Pages is a serious\nboost to your career, and you soon find yourself deeply enmeshed in\nThe Case Of The Missing Goldfish, and dozens of other small\nmysteries from wealthy clientele. You make a peaceful living, and live\na quiet life.\n\nEvery so often, you hear stories about a strange shape cropping up\naround London. If it's Euclid, though, he certainly isn't there for\nyou, because you never see him again.\n\nThe third dimension doesn't exist. Maybe it never has.\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the handwritten book to the librarian", "response": "The librarian takes the book gently, like she's afraid she'll hurt it.\nShe says nothing for a long time. Then, as though it were the most\nordinary thing in the world, she assigns it a number, and dumps it in\na basket for shelving. What happens next is up to the librarian now.\nYou can't be sure that Pages won't get his hands on it, or the church,\nor Her Most Circular Majesty. But it's a step in the right direction\nfor math and science - a step not north or south, but up.\n\nEnd your journey here? (You will be able to reverse this decision.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "You never get the money you were promised for a job well done. Mr.\nPages does, however, pay you for the chair you brought him. It's a\nlot, but not enough to last, and you soon find yourself returning to\nwork. Luckily for you, even just being hired by Mr. Pages is a serious\nboost to your career, and you soon find yourself deeply enmeshed in\nThe Case Of The Missing Goldfish, and dozens of other small\nmysteries from wealthy clientele. You make a peaceful living, and live\na quiet life.\n\nA few months after the book is placed in the library, a bored student\nchecks it out. He takes it to his friend, who studies ancient\nlanguages, and realizes the value of what he has. The book spreads\nrapidly around campus - Translations are made, and study groups\nformed. Progress is slow, of course, and it's still more or less\nillegal to discuss the third dimension as if it were real, but the\nbook continues to seep into the public consciousness. Perhaps one day,\nEuclid's legacy will be complete.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan apocyan catspaw\nan unspeakably hideous painting\na green-glass mirror\nsome brilliant sap\na handwritten book\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na brass key\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A path from west to east snakes through the thick foliage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A path from the northwest bends around to the east. The trees here\nseem to grow in strange directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A cavernous room, with thorny walls and no windows. Cages made from\nstiff briars are here, wrapping painfully around their dead-eyed\nprisoners. Most of them are motionless, but one stirs to look at you\nwhen you enter the room. To the east, the rest of the castle beckons\nyou.\n\nYou sit placidly in a cage of thorns, looking dead ahead. You don't\nremember what happened, the last time you were here.\n\nAn imprisoned heptagon watches the room with its too-many eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show mirror", "response": "(to the sevenfold panoptic)\nThe sevenfold panoptic is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the mirror", "response": "(to the sevenfold panoptic)\nThe heptagon takes the mirror tenderly. \"Thank you,\" he says. \"You've\ndone a good thing.\" With that he hurls himself into the mirror, not\neven bothering to pick his way around the sharp parts, and is gone,\nleaving the mirror behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mirror", "response": "Taken.\n\nOut of the corner of your eye, you see a flash of green. A trick of\nthe light. It's nothing. Don't worry about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the mirror", "response": "As you step out from the mirror, you wake up in a cold sweat.\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the looking glass", "response": "A green-tinted mirror with a real eye embedded in its handle.\nPresently, it is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You try to pry it open, but the eye remains shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the mirror", "response": "The looking glass is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the mirror", "response": "It's difficult, but you manage to force yourself through the glass.\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]## Amber Woods\nYou are in a thick forest, where the ambient light is a soft shade of\namber. You are in the land-behind-mirrors, home of the glass serpents.\nYou are nowhere that is real. The forest stretches out in every\ndirection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na looking glass\nan apocyan catspaw\nan unspeakably hideous painting\nsome brilliant sap\na handwritten book\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na brass key\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter mirror", "response": "As you step out from the mirror, you wake up in a cold sweat.\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]## Your Lodgings\nYou are in your small apartment. It's a cool London morning, and your\nwindows are ever so slightly fogged up. A door is set into the west\nwall of your home.\n\nIn one corner of the room is an old wooden trophy case.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put catspaw in Case", "response": "built to hold it, the pieces start to fall into place. This was never\na trophy case, it was a mold. And you have filled it - painstakingly,\nlovingly - with the treasures of the world. Brass from the devils,\nfoam from the deepest pits, even the idea of ivory, stolen from the\nserpent lords themselves. The shape that you have made is not fire,\nbut it burns.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The only thing in the room is the burning symbol. Everything else is\njust background noise.\n\nexist - sits in your room and smolders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sigil", "response": "An Unmappable Direction. A raging inferno at the edge of your\nconsciousness. A dot, then a line, then a square, and then you, as you\nwere always meant to be.\n\nThe sigil is a command, an exigent order followed by a shower of\nsparks. The sigil is two words. The sigil is:\n\nGO UP.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A cavernous room, with thorny walls and no windows. Cages made from\nstiff briars are here, wrapping painfully around their dead-eyed\nprisoners. To the east, the rest of the castle beckons you.\n\nYou sit placidly in a cage of thorns, looking dead ahead. You don't\nremember what happened, the last time you were here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the mirror", "response": "As you step out from the mirror, you wake up in a cold sweat.\n\n[PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE]## Your Lodgings\nThe only thing in the room is the burning symbol. Everything else is\njust background noise.\n\nexist - sits in your room and smolders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave mirror", "response": "You wave the looking glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Here in a broad cavern, across a sea of foamy pits, is a stone altar.\nWest is a cage-elevator, situated on a flat stone clearing. A\nstairwell south leads even further into the bowels of the earth.\n\nA puddle is here, fizzing ever so slightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The eye on the handle of your looking glass opens.\n\nYou stand in the ruins of an archway, made from ancient stone. There\nis a complex series of tunnels to the south, and north is the way you\ncame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the eye", "response": "A green-tinted mirror with a real eye embedded in its handle. The eye\nis looking south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the eye", "response": "A green-tinted mirror with a real eye embedded in its handle. The eye\nis looking east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the eye", "response": "A green-tinted mirror with a real eye embedded in its handle. The eye\nis looking northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the eye", "response": "A green-tinted mirror with a real eye embedded in its handle. The eye\nis looking west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the eye", "response": "A green-tinted mirror with a real eye embedded in its handle. The eye\nis looking southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na looking glass\nan unspeakably hideous painting\nsome brilliant sap\na handwritten book\na flint-and-steel lighter\na maze map\na set of ritual instructions\na brass key\na pickaxe\nthe theoretical location of a hideout\na rusty lamp (providing light)\na pint of fry oil\nthe spare towel\na knapsack (open but empty)\na compelling note", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Slice of life", "Travel" ]

[ "cover art", "feelie map", "feelies", "female protagonist", "IF Art Show", "IF Art Show 2004", "landscape", "parser", "puzzleless", "tower", "Xyzzy Awards 2004", "XYZZY Best Setting" ]

[ 5, 20, 12, 3, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "\"You're certain that you'll be okay on your own?\" he asks.\n\nYou smile at him, tightening the pack around your waist. A slight\nlaugh creeps into your voice - it's not as if you haven't done this before. \"Yes, dear. I'll be fine. It's nothing personal, I just...\"\nYou take in the concerned expression on his face and your voice\nsoftens slightly. \"I just need a break. Not from you, necessarily, but from everything: work, responsibilities, friends. I just need a day to myself, you know?\"\n\nHe nods. \"Yeah. Yeah, I guess I do. No worries; I get like that myself sometimes. Just in case something happens, what route do you plan to take? Your usual?\"\n\nYou nod. \"Yeah. I'll head up the long way, on the Lower Mt. Cammerer trail, hit the Appalachian trail to get to the tower, then descend by going further down the AT towards Low Gap. I'll take the Low Gap trail back to the campground.\"\n\nHe smiles at you. \"Like I said, 'Your usual.' Listen, I'll be back to pick you up about... Hm, what time?\"\n\n\"Well, if I were just hiking, I could be out by mid-afternoon, but I really want to take my time and enjoy things. I guess it gets dark about... what? Half past nine these days?\" He nods. \"I should be out\nby then. I'll meet you right back here at nine-thirty, okay?\" you\noffer up your most reassuring smile.\n\n\"Sure,\" he says. \"I love you. Be careful, and have a great hike.\"\n\nWith that, he kisses you lightly on the lips and gets back in the car. He waves out the driver's side window and heads off toward the north end of the parking lot, towards home. Soon, the car is out of sight entirely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "For hints and information, type \"about.\"\n\nEnjoy your walk, and thank you for playing.\n\nStanding alone at the edge of the deserted parking lot, you take in a deep breath of fresh air and glance about. An inviting trail beckons from the forest to the east; that path quickly curves among the hemlocks and out of sight. Two roads depart from the parking lot: one leads north, towards home, the other south, toward the campground not quite half a mile distant.\n\nToday's hike is one you've done many times before, and you're intimately familiar with the ground you'll cover. You know without the aid of a map that you can proceed either east or south, and that\neither route will bring you toward the Lower Mt. Cammerer trail. From there it's a slow and steady climb to the fire tower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome socks (being worn)\nsome hiking shorts (being worn)\na shirt (being worn)\nsome hiking boots (being worn)\na hip pack (being worn and closed)\na watch (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "You glance down at your watch, a rather chunky and unstylish accoutrement purchased for fifteen dollars at the drugstore. Fashion critiques aside, it's a functional, water-resistant, glow in the dark timepiece.\n\nAt present, it indicates that the time is 7:02 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine yourself", "response": "You glance down and the first thing you see are your hiking boots. They're serious hiking boots - eight inches high, all leather exterior with Gore-Tex lining; so long as you don't walk through water more than, say, seven or seven and a half inches deep, your feet will stay dry. These boots consume most of your lower calves in a rather unladylike but not altogether unattractive way, and bits of your thick Thorlo socks are just visible.\n\nYour legs, feminine but muscular, are revealed to the world because you're wearing shorts, which, let's be honest, is probably silly, because you'll no doubt end up covered in bug bites and scratches, but it's sooo warm and you simply couldn't resist - it will give you something to complain about tomorrow, but only to the people who won't say, \"Why didn't you wear pants?\"\n\nAt any rate, a long sleeved t-shirt rounds out the ensemble. You're comfortable, and you're ready to hike.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine pack", "response": "You don't know what you'd do without your wonderful hip pack on day hikes like this. It's compact, it's capable of carrying everything you could really need (even in an emergency), it holds a water bottle, and it's your favorite color (green!).\n\nA slight breeze blows out of the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the watch", "response": "You take off the watch.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "while exploring the nearby trail system in the national park, but this morning it's devoid of vehicles. A grassy hill, recently mown, lines the western edge of the parking lot, while a forest abuts it to the east. From the parking lot there are two roads: one departing north, toward the park exit, and one leading south toward the campground just under half a mile away. A trail enters the woods to the east, quickly disappearing amongst the hemlocks.\n\nFor your hike, you can proceed either east or south. Either route will take you to the Lower Mt. Cammerer trail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You put your watch back on before walking away, just to make certain that you don't lose it.\n\nYou decide it's best to leave the pavement as quickly as possible, and opt for the trail into the woods. The path, lined with wildflowers, curves south, then southeast, before joining with the Lower Mt. Cammerer trail.\n\nTrail Junction (Lower Mt. Cammerer & Access trails)\nYou're standing at the junction of two trails, and two signs are\nnailed to a single post here to orient you. The Lower Mt. Cammerer trail heads northeast, toward the Sutton Ridge Overlook and, eventually, to the Appalachian Trail. Alternately, the trail continues southwest toward the campground, about two tenths of a mile away. A second trail, unnamed, runs northwest, toward the parking area where you began, or southeast, toward the Low Gap Trail.\n\nA patch of yellow flowers is growing at the base of the signpost.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pick the flowers", "response": "As much as you might love to pick some of the flowers, you'd prefer to leave them for the next hiker to enjoy. And besides, this is a\nNational Park; things should be left untouched and in their natural state so that everyone can enjoy the beauty. There are flowers to pick in the garden back home.\n\nAs much as you might love to pick some of the flowers, you'd prefer to leave them for the next hiker to enjoy. And besides, this is a\nNational Park; things should be left untouched and in their natural state so that everyone can enjoy the beauty. There are flowers to pick in the garden back home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell flowers", "response": "Hm... you can't really detect much of a scent from these flowers.\nTheir delicate beauty makes up for the lack of scent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow flowers", "response": "(first taking the wildflowers)\nAs much as you might love to pick some of the flowers, you'd prefer to leave them for the next hiker to enjoy. And besides, this is a\nNational Park; things should be left untouched and in their natural state so that everyone can enjoy the beauty. There are flowers to pick in the garden back home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine nw", "response": "You jump up and down, but the weight of your pack banging around on your hips is rather uncomfortable, so you quickly cease your hopping.\n\nAn insect lights upon your ear, but a wave of your hand sends it away.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the path", "response": "You're standing at the junction of two trails, one running northwest-southeast, the other running northeast-southwest. At the north corner of the junction, two signs are nailed to a single post indicating where each trail leads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the signs", "response": "There are two signs on the post. The uppermost sign faces southeast, and is oriented so that you know it pertains to the trail that runs northeast-southwest; it reads:\n\nSutton Ridge Overlook 1.2 >\nAppalachian Trail 7.3 >\n< Cosby Campground 0.2\n\nThe other sign faces southwest and pertains to the access trail from the parking lot, which has no name; the sign reads:\n\nLow Gap Trail 0.4 ->\n<- Hiker Parking 0.4", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rest", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Trail Junction (Lower Mt. Cammerer & Access trails)\nYou're standing at the junction of two trails, one running northwest-southeast, the other running northeast-southwest. At the north corner of the junction, two signs are nailed to a single post indicating where each trail leads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You take a look at the trail sign and confirm that that way just leads back to the parking area where you began. Your route heads northeast, up the Lower Mt. Cammerer trail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You head northeast. A quarter mile or so down the path you encounter a shallow stream, easily crossed by hopping from one rock to the next without getting your boots wet.\n\nBefore long, the trail narrows from a road to a trail. The vegetation closes in on each side as well as overhead, forming a darkened tunnel of rhododendron. It's a pleasant stroll along this section, quiet,\nwith only the smallest shafts of sunlight penetrating the thick\ncanopy, but you're evidently the first person to break trail today and you keep hitting unseen strands of spider web. Eventually the tunnel disappears, the canopy opens up, and as you pick the last wispy cob\nweb from your hiking shorts, you notice that you've arrived at the footbridge.\n\nSunlight pours forth into a large opening in the trees here, illuminating bits of pollen floating in the air and sparkling on the surface of Tom's Creek. The stream flows northwest, gurgling beneath a rustic but sturdy log footbridge.\n\nYou hear the distinctive sound of a woodpecker in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stream", "response": "Tom's Creek is wide, perhaps thirty feet across, and sufficiently deep enough to merit the presence of a foot bridge. The water slides over rocks, slips over semi-submerged boulders into small white cascades, pauses near the bank in tiny eddies, and seemingly stops in darkened pools. Eventually, it flows off to the northwest, giggling and whispering its secrets to the forest as it goes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste stream", "response": "You're sure the cold, clear water would taste fantastic, but you also know that it might make you sick. Looks are deceiving, and despite its clarity there might be bacteria present. You've no filter, no way to boil it, and besides all that, you have some perfectly acceptable\nwater in your water bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter stream", "response": "You splash your boots about at the edge of the stream, but ultimately decide to stand on the bank so as to keep from accidentally getting your socks wet. You forgot to bring a spare pair. You forgot a few things in your rush to get out the door. Oh well.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Tom's Creek flows across the path here, beneath a sturdy log footbridge. The path continues on the other side of the bridge, to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine log", "response": "The stream is fairly wide and a bit too deep to cross without getting your socks wet, and so a foot bridge has been installed. It's a simple structure, half of a log with its flat side facing up for a walking surface. A hand rail affixed to one side allows will help you maintain your balance as you cross. It's functional, yet blends in well with\nthe natural surroundings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You climb onto the footbridge over Tom's Creek, walk halfway across, and pause. One hand on the railing for balance, you close your eyes, feel the coolness of the water running beneath you, and concentrate on the sound of the water as it ripples along over unseen rocks. You\nstand there for perhaps two minutes, enjoying the water's song, but eventually the cool air coming off the creek is too much for your uncovered legs and you decide to continue up the trail.\n\nAfter walking about a third of a mile, you come to a trail junction.\n\nThe trail crests the first of many ridges along the northern side of Mt. Cammerer here. Sutton Ridge, as it's called, is dry and exposed - perhaps not the loveliest spot for a rest break. But from here, a tiny spur trial scrambles up the ridge to the southeast, and the clearing\nat the top generally provides an lovely view of the surrounding mountains.\n\nYou pause to contemplate whether you'd like to check out the spur trail, or to simply continue east, toward the fire tower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You decide to make the scramble up to the overlook. It's only two-hundred yards, but the climb is steep and leaves you winded once you reach the top.\n\nThe Sutton Ridge Overlook is a very formal name for a very informal clearing on the side of a hill. The ground here remains bare from people such as yourself coming up here to take in the view; evenings\nin particular are a great time to visit, because this is a wonderful vantage point from which to take in the sunset over Gabes Mountain, across the valley to the west. Though perhaps not quite so stunning as at sunset, the clearing is still quite beautiful during the day. To\nthe north, the Cosby Valley stretches out lush and green, and mountain laurel dots the surrounding hillsides, pink and in full bloom. Galax and arbutus line the edges of the clearing at ground level.\n\nYou sit down on the ground in the clearing to catch your breath and take in the view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Valley", "response": "The Cosby Valley rests between Mt. Cammerer and Gabes Mountain, lush and green. Though you can't see within its depths, you know that the Pigeon River courses along its floor, far below you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the galax", "response": "The galax is a lovely shade of green with round, waxy leaves. They\nstay green all winter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get back up and brush off your clothes. Break's over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ground", "response": "The ground, where it lacks vegetation, is brown and dry.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You work your way carefully down the steep spur trail.\n\nYou're standing at a bend in the trail on the crest of Sutton Ridge. The trail turns from south to east here, and a spur trail scrambles through the arbutus and galax to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Mrm... no, you've already had that diversion. Probably best to trek on east, toward the fire tower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You leave the spur trail behind and head down the eastern side of the ridge. The path is a long, narrow straightaway, and the walking is easy. After less than a quarter mile you come to a lovely little waterfall, and pause to admire its beauty.\n\nWhereas Sutton Ridge was a high spot, dry and exposed, this is a tiny creek draw between two ridges. Riding Fork Creek cascades down a\nseries of mossy dark gray rocks here, southeast of the trail. You can continue on toward the fire tower by hopping across the creek to the north.\n\nA gentle breeze brushes your skin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the waterfall", "response": "Riding Fork Creek may be small, but that doesn't make it any less majestic: a narrow stream of water tumbles down over a series of chiseled, squarish, dark grey rocks, almost like a contrived fountain, and yet it's natural.\n\nYou feel the coolness coming off the water and close your eyes. A\nsmile touches your lips, and you breathe in the refreshingly chilled air. You take a moment to contemplate how even in the driest of years this tiny stream persists, flowing ever on, regardless of who's here\nto admire its beauty. You think like that sometimes... wondering about purpose, about process. About the way in which everything moves on regardless of your presence or concerns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "You take a moment to consider your next move.\n\nA gnat is momentarily caught in your eyelashes, but you blink it away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The ridge climbs sharply upward in that direction, with no path. You'd tear up a great deal of vegetation trying to make the climb. It would be better, perhaps, to remain on the trail. From here, you can go north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You cross Riding Fork Creek and continue weaving over and between ridges, making the long, slow climb along the northern face of Mt. Cammerer.\n\nAfter a mile and a half or so, you come to Campsite 35, the only developed backcountry campsite along the trail today. There's no one present, so you rest at one of the scorched fire rings, nibble on some trail mix, and watch a squirrel as he goes about his business.\n\nAfter a pleasant break, you continue on toward the tower. The gradual nature of the climb gives way to a steeper ascent, and after an additional two and three-quarter miles, you reach the next landmark of today's hike.\n\nTrail Junction (Lower Mt Cammerer and Appalachian trails)\nThe Lower Mt. Cammerer trail ends here at a junction with the famous Appalachian Trail. Commonly referred to simply as the \"AT,\" the trail covers nearly the entire length of the Appalachian Mountains, from Maine to Georgia - a distance of over two thousand miles. You wish\nthat you'd taken a summer off during college to hike the length of it, but there's no point in regretting that now. There's always retirement to look forward to, right? You sigh wistfully at the thought and plop down onto the ground among the roots of a large tulip poplar growing\nin the center of the junction.\n\nThe AT runs east-west here. According to the sign, it's only another three miles to the tower.\n\nA gentle breeze caresses your skin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You'll have to get off the ground first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get back up and brush off your clothes. Break's over.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Trail Junction (Lower Mt Cammerer and Appalachian trails)\nThe AT climbs from east to west here, ascending toward the peak of the mountain and the fire tower. The Lower Mt. Cammerer trail, from which you accessed the AT, descends out of the junction to the northwest.\n\nof a grouse. As you stand there with your hand to your chest it flies off, equally as startled by your presence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "There appear to be only woods in that direction, with no path among\nthe trees. The AT continues to the southwest, or you can visit the\nfire tower by heading north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You set off toward the fire tower. The trail runs along the top of a rocky ridge, but it's well-used and, for the most part, easily walked. The last few feet are a bit of a scramble, but you effortlessly manage the boulders and find yourself standing triumphantly on the porch of the fire tower.\n\nMt. Cammerer, Outside the Fire Tower\nThe Mt. Cammerer fire tower sits atop a jagged, rocky peak with a commanding view of the surrounding mountains. It's a fantastic\nlocation for such a structure, really, because you can see for miles\nin every direction and it would be easy to spot a plume of smoke, particularly if you used binoculars.\n\nYou lean against the railing and take in the landscape. Gorgeous, and so worth the effort.\n\nA hawk cries in the sky above you, momentarily drawing your attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hawk", "response": "The hawk circles high overhead, seemingly without effort.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "You wish to have the freedom of a bird. Why not settle for the freedom of your feet?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You take a quick peek over the edge of the railing and decide that falling to the rocks below might be bad for your health.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Fortunately, the railing prevents you from toppling over the edge toward certain injury and possible death. You can leave the tower by going southwest.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Mt. Cammerer, Outside the Fire Tower\nThe fire tower has a commanding view of the surrounding mountains. You can enter the tower or simply return back the way you came. The trail departs to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Mountains", "response": "You walk to the railing, lean against it, and take in the view. It's a wonderfully clear day, and it feels as if you're able to see the\nentire world from here - mountain after mountain, sprawling to the horizon. You can see Webb Mountain to the north, where your house is nestled somewhere in the trees. Beyond is Bays Mountain and, further still and slightly west, Clinch Mountain.\n\nYou walk around the tower and look to the east. Snowbird Mountain lies just the other side of the Pigeon River gorge. Beyond that, the Unakas and, further still, the Blue Ridge.\n\nTraversing the porch to the south, you see the Mt. Sterling Lookout on a distant ridge, barely visible without binoculars.\n\nFinally, you step to the western railing and look out onto peaks of whose names you are not certain. The names aren't important, really, merely random designations of natural landmarks. First the Cherokee gave them names, then the Europeans, and perhaps someday someone else will call them something new. But the mountains will endure\nregardless. Or so you hope.\n\nA small purple butterfly flits across the trail in front of you and disappears among the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "There appear to be only woods in that direction, with no path among\nthe trees. The AT continues to the southwest, or you can visit the\nfire tower by heading north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Nah... you've already been there, done that, and heading back out to the tower would add an additional mile to your hike, which, quite frankly, is long enough already. Best to head back to the parking lot now. The AT departs to the southwest, toward Low Gap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "You recommence climbing the Appalachian Trail. Just as with the previous stretch, it's littered with roots and rocks and excessive steepness, and makes you not such a happy hiker. \"Oh well,\" you think to yourself, \"it's making me stronger. Stronger. Yes. Stronger.\" You continue this rather ineffective little pep talk for about a half a mile, at which point the trail graciously levels out along the crest\nof a ridge.\n\nYou find an easy, confident pace, and begin to notice how effortlessly your legs move on this type of terrain. The lack of obstructions in\nthe trail allows you to take in the view as you hike, and incredible mountain vistas are present on both sides of the trail for a short while - successive waves of blue, smoky ridges trailing off into the distance.\n\nAfter a bit, the trail begins to descend off the ridge and into the trees... gradually at first, then steeper, and your pace finds a decrescendo as you carefully navigate the slope. Many people prefer a strenuous uphill to this, because descending can be fairly hard on\nyour knees and ankles, but after the beating your lungs and legs took on the AT earlier, you are inclined to respectfully disagree.\n\nAfter a total walk of just over two miles, you encounter another trail junction.\n\nTrail Junction (Appalachian and Low Gap trails)\nTwo trails cross here, in the center of what's called Low Gap, so\nnamed because it's the lowest pass through the mountains for over\nfifty miles if you were traveling along the Appalachian Trail headed north. The AT runs from northeast to southwest here, climbing toward Cosby Knob and beyond - all the way to Georgia. The Low Gap trail crosses perpendicular to the AT, descending in both directions: southeast, toward Walnut Bottoms and Big Creek, or northwest, toward the Cosby Campground and, for you, home.\n\nA sign at one side of the junction points the way and provides the mileage to nearby landmarks.\n\nYour socks have shifted uncomfortably in your boots, so you take a\nseat in the clearing to readjust them. Once you're finished, you\ndecide the ground feels good enough to simply rest there for a bit.\n\nA cool breeze builds momentarily from the east, cooling your skin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"You're certain that you'll be okay on your own?\" he asks.\n\nYou smile at him, tightening the pack around your waist. A slight\nlaugh creeps into your voice - it's not as if you haven't done this before. \"Yes, dear. I'll be fine. It's nothing personal, I just...\"\nYou take in the concerned expression on his face and your voice\nsoftens slightly. \"I just need a break. Not from you, necessarily, but from everything: work, responsibilities, friends. I just need a day to myself, you know?\"\n\nHe nods. \"Yeah. Yeah, I guess I do. No worries; I get like that myself sometimes. Just in case something happens, what route do you plan to take? Your usual?\"\n\nYou nod. \"Yeah. I'll head up the long way, on the Lower Mt. Cammerer trail, hit the Appalachian trail to get to the tower, then descend by going further down the AT towards Low Gap. I'll take the Low Gap trail back to the campground.\"\n\nHe smiles at you. \"Like I said, 'Your usual.' Listen, I'll be back to pick you up about... Hm, what time?\"\n\n\"Well, if I were just hiking, I could be out by mid-afternoon, but I really want to take my time and enjoy things. I guess it gets dark about... what? Half past nine these days?\" He nods. \"I should be out\nby then. I'll meet you right back here at nine-thirty, okay?\" you\noffer up your most reassuring smile.\n\n\"Sure,\" he says. \"I love you. Be careful, and have a great hike.\"\n\nWith that, he kisses you lightly on the lips and gets back in the car. He waves out the driver's side window and heads off toward the north end of the parking lot, towards home. Soon, the car is out of sight entirely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "As you enter the campground, you realize that it's early yet - none of the campers seem to be stirring. You attempt to make as little noise\nas possible with your boots against the pavement, and after about four tenths of a mile you reach the trailhead.\n\nLower Mt. Cammerer Trailhead\nYou're standing at the edge of the road on the eastern edge of the Cosby Campground. A familiar wooden sign, painted brown with bright white lettering stands here, just off the pavement and to the left of the trail. As with all of the National Park Service's trail signs, it gives you the name of the trail and the distance to the nearest important junctions. This one reads:\n\nLow Gap Trail 0.2\nSutton Ridge Overlook 1.4\nAppalachian Trail 7.5\n\nThe dirt trail is wide enough here to accommodate a full-size vehicle, and begins behind a locked gate.\n\nA slight breeze blows out of the east.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Lower Mt. Cammerer Trailhead\nA standard NPS trail sign indicates that the Lower Mt. Cammerer trail begins here, leaving the pavement and entering the woods to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "You step behind the gate and begin walking the wide trail. Tire tracks are evident here and there where the soil is softer; the rangers have been back here recently for some reason. There's a gentle uphill\ngrade, though it's barely noticeable, and before too long you come to another trail sign.\n\nTrail Junction (Lower Mt. Cammerer & Access trails)\nYou're standing at the junction of two trails, and two signs are\nnailed to a single post here to orient you. The Lower Mt. Cammerer trail heads northeast, toward the Sutton Ridge Overlook and, eventually, to the Appalachian Trail. Alternately, the trail continues southwest toward the campground, about two tenths of a mile away. A second trail, unnamed, runs northwest, toward the parking area where you began, or southeast, toward the Low Gap Trail.\n\nA patch of yellow flowers is growing at the base of the signpost.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You head northeast. A quarter mile or so down the path you encounter a shallow stream, easily crossed by hopping from one rock to the next without getting your boots wet.\n\nBefore long, the trail narrows from a road to a trail. The vegetation closes in on each side as well as overhead, forming a darkened tunnel of rhododendron. It's a pleasant stroll along this section, quiet,\nwith only the smallest shafts of sunlight penetrating the thick\ncanopy, but you're evidently the first person to break trail today and you keep hitting unseen strands of spider web. Eventually the tunnel disappears, the canopy opens up, and as you pick the last wispy cob\nweb from your hiking shorts, you notice that you've arrived at the footbridge.\n\nSunlight pours forth into a large opening in the trees here, illuminating bits of pollen floating in the air and sparkling on the surface of Tom's Creek. The stream flows northwest, gurgling beneath a rustic but sturdy log footbridge.\n\nYou hear the distinctive sound of a woodpecker in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The water appears to be too deep to cross in that direction. It's perhaps best to instead use the footbridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You climb onto the footbridge over Tom's Creek, walk halfway across, and pause. One hand on the railing for balance, you close your eyes, feel the coolness of the water running beneath you, and concentrate on the sound of the water as it ripples along over unseen rocks. You\nstand there for perhaps two minutes, enjoying the water's song, but eventually the cool air coming off the creek is too much for your uncovered legs and you decide to continue up the trail.\n\nAfter walking about a third of a mile, you come to a trail junction.\n\nThe trail crests the first of many ridges along the northern side of Mt. Cammerer here. Sutton Ridge, as it's called, is dry and exposed - perhaps not the loveliest spot for a rest break. But from here, a tiny spur trial scrambles up the ridge to the southeast, and the clearing\nat the top generally provides an lovely view of the surrounding mountains.\n\nYou pause to contemplate whether you'd like to check out the spur trail, or to simply continue east, toward the fire tower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You decide to make the scramble up to the overlook. It's only two-hundred yards, but the climb is steep and leaves you winded once you reach the top.\n\nThe Sutton Ridge Overlook is a very formal name for a very informal clearing on the side of a hill. The ground here remains bare from people such as yourself coming up here to take in the view; evenings\nin particular are a great time to visit, because this is a wonderful vantage point from which to take in the sunset over Gabes Mountain, across the valley to the west. Though perhaps not quite so stunning as at sunset, the clearing is still quite beautiful during the day. To\nthe north, the Cosby Valley stretches out lush and green, and mountain laurel dots the surrounding hillsides, pink and in full bloom. Galax and arbutus line the edges of the clearing at ground level.\n\nYou sit down on the ground in the clearing to catch your breath and take in the view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get back up and brush off your clothes. Break's over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You work your way carefully down the steep spur trail.\n\nYou're standing at a bend in the trail on the crest of Sutton Ridge. The trail turns from south to east here, and a spur trail scrambles through the arbutus and galax to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You leave the spur trail behind and head down the eastern side of the ridge. The path is a long, narrow straightaway, and the walking is easy. After less than a quarter mile you come to a lovely little waterfall, and pause to admire its beauty.\n\nWhereas Sutton Ridge was a high spot, dry and exposed, this is a tiny creek draw between two ridges. Riding Fork Creek cascades down a\nseries of mossy dark gray rocks here, southeast of the trail. You can continue on toward the fire tower by hopping across the creek to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You cross Riding Fork Creek and continue weaving over and between ridges, making the long, slow climb along the northern face of Mt. Cammerer.\n\nAfter a mile and a half or so, you come to Campsite 35, the only developed backcountry campsite along the trail today. There's no one present, so you rest at one of the scorched fire rings, nibble on some trail mix, and watch a squirrel as he goes about his business.\n\nAfter a pleasant break, you continue on toward the tower. The gradual nature of the climb gives way to a steeper ascent, and after an additional two and three-quarter miles, you reach the next landmark of today's hike.\n\nTrail Junction (Lower Mt Cammerer and Appalachian trails)\nThe Lower Mt. Cammerer trail ends here at a junction with the famous Appalachian Trail. Commonly referred to simply as the \"AT,\" the trail covers nearly the entire length of the Appalachian Mountains, from Maine to Georgia - a distance of over two thousand miles. You wish\nthat you'd taken a summer off during college to hike the length of it, but there's no point in regretting that now. There's always retirement to look forward to, right? You sigh wistfully at the thought and plop down onto the ground among the roots of a large tulip poplar growing\nin the center of the junction.\n\nThe AT runs east-west here. According to the sign, it's only another three miles to the tower.\n\nIn the distance, you hear a woodpecker's familiar drilling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sign", "response": "There are two signs on the post. The uppermost sign faces south, and\nis oriented so that you know it pertains to the trail that runs east-west; it reads:\n\nDavenport Gap 2.8 ->\n<- Mt Cammerer Fire Tower 2.9\n<- Low Gap 4.4\n\nThe other sign faces west and reads:\n\n<- Cosby Campground 7.5\n\nSeven and a half miles back to the campground and parking area... you've already come quite a way!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toad", "response": "You've seen a few amphibians here and there, but you don't see any\njust now.\n\nYou hear a sound in the underbrush off to your left, but see nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You set off toward the fire tower. The trail runs along the top of a rocky ridge, but it's well-used and, for the most part, easily walked. The last few feet are a bit of a scramble, but you effortlessly manage the boulders and find yourself standing triumphantly on the porch of the fire tower.\n\nMt. Cammerer, Outside the Fire Tower\nThe Mt. Cammerer fire tower sits atop a jagged, rocky peak with a commanding view of the surrounding mountains. It's a fantastic\nlocation for such a structure, really, because you can see for miles\nin every direction and it would be easy to spot a plume of smoke, particularly if you used binoculars.\n\nYou lean against the railing and take in the landscape. Gorgeous, and so worth the effort.\n\nA hawk cries in the sky above you, momentarily drawing your attention.\n\nThe wind picks up for a moment, cooling your skin in the growing heat of the day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You open the door to the fire tower and walk inside, closing it behind you.\n\nThe interior of the fire tower is simple and unadorned. A plain wooden floor stretches from wall to wall, and windows stretch from about\nwaist high to just short of the ceiling. Despite the sun, the warmth\nof the day, and the large windows that allow a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, the air is surprisingly cool inside the tower, no doubt due to the stone foundation you saw outside. You're thankful for the break from the heat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the window", "response": "You walk to the edge of the room, lean gently against the window, and take in the view. It's a wonderfully clear day, and it feels as if you're able to see the entire world from here - mountain after mountain, sprawling to the horizon. You can see Webb Mountain to the north, where your house is nestled somewhere in the trees. Beyond is Bays Mountain and, further still and slightly west, Clinch Mountain.\n\nYou turn and walk across the room a bit, and look to the east.\nSnowbird Mountain lies just the other side of the Pigeon River gorge. Beyond that, the Unakas and, further still, the Blue Ridge.\n\nTurning south, you see the Mt. Sterling Lookout on a distant ridge, barely visible without binoculars.\n\nFinally, you step to the western portion of the room and look out onto peaks of whose names you are not certain. The names aren't important, really, merely random designations of natural landmarks. First the Cherokee gave them names, then the Europeans, and perhaps someday someone else will call them something new. But the mountains will endure regardless. Or so you hope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Webb Mountain", "response": "The mountain is a sea of trees, dark green waves rolling over a weathered landscape. These mountains are considered by some to be less majestic than the Rockies or other, younger, unweathered mountain chains, but you think of them as wise and old, containing secrets.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The interior of the fire tower is simple and unadorned. A plain wooden floor stretches from wall to wall, and windows stretch from about\nwaist high to just short of the ceiling. Despite the sun, the warmth\nof the day, and the large windows that allow a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, the air is surprisingly cool inside the tower, no doubt due to the stone foundation you saw outside. You're thankful for the break from the heat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome socks (being worn)\nsome hiking shorts (being worn)\na shirt (being worn)\nsome hiking boots (being worn)\na hip pack (being worn and closed)\na watch (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the pack", "response": "You wiggle around a bit, and manage to pull the zipper open. It's so much easier to do that when you're not actually wearing the thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the pack", "response": "In the hip pack are a headlamp, a first aid kit, a water bottle and a massive bag of trail mix.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the trail mix", "response": "(first taking the massive bag of trail mix)\nIt's sort of difficult to get stuff out of your pack when you're still wearing it, but somehow you manage to get your hands on the trail mix.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the trail mix", "response": "You snack on a few bites of the trail mix.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "It's a massive bag of trail mix, full of all sorts of goodies. Not the sort of food one would want to rely on for sustenance all the time,\nbut it'll provide plenty of energy for today's hike.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell it", "response": "The bag emits an aroma of yummy nutty goodness. Mmmm.\n\nFor the first time, you realize that the sun is now directly overhead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the pack", "response": "You seal the bag of trail mix and tuck it neatly away in your pack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close pack", "response": "You wiggle around a bit, and manage to pull the zipper closed. It's so much easier to do that when you're not actually wearing the thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stretch", "response": "What do you want to stretch?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stretch calves", "response": "Your calves feel a bit tight, so you walk over to a nearby tree and place your palms against the bark, enjoying the rough texture beneath your hands. You bend your left leg in a lunge and step back with your right foot, leg straight. Closing your eyes, you take a pleasantly\ndeep breath and wait for some of the tension to subside in your calf, which it does.\n\nAfter stretching both legs a couple of times, you decide it's probably time to move on down the trail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the socks", "response": "Your Thorlos are designed specifically for hiking, with extra padding beneath the heel and ball of your foot for comfort. This particular pair of Thorlos are white; just the very tops of them are visible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell feet", "response": "The exterior off the boots smell like leather. You'd rather not smell in the inside of the boots.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shirt", "response": "You're wearing a dark brown long-sleeved t-shirt, the color of chocolate. It's cotton, which isn't always a wise thing to wear when hiking - fantastic when it's hot, but is miserable in the rain - however there's a brilliant blue sky and a favorable forecast, so you're risking it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell shirt", "response": "You glance at the sun climbing in the sky, then lift your arm and take a sniff of your arm pit. Not too bad... yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You open the door to the fire tower and walk out onto the porch, closing it behind you.\n\nMt. Cammerer, Outside the Fire Tower\nThe fire tower has a commanding view of the surrounding mountains. You can enter the tower or simply return back the way you came. The trail departs to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stretch the hips", "response": "You're not quite sure how to stretch those bits. Maybe you should look into yoga.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stretch the legs", "response": "Your calves feel a bit tight, so you walk over to a nearby tree and place your palms against the bark, enjoying the rough texture beneath your hands. You bend your left leg in a lunge and step back with your right foot, leg straight. Closing your eyes, you take a pleasantly\ndeep breath and wait for some of the tension to subside in your calf, which it does.\n\nAfter stretching both legs a couple of times, you decide it's probably time to move on down the trail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "There appear to be only woods in that direction, with no path among\nthe trees. The AT continues to the southwest, or you can visit the\nfire tower by heading north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "You recommence climbing the Appalachian Trail. Just as with the previous stretch, it's littered with roots and rocks and excessive steepness, and makes you not such a happy hiker. \"Oh well,\" you think to yourself, \"it's making me stronger. Stronger. Yes. Stronger.\" You continue this rather ineffective little pep talk for about a half a mile, at which point the trail graciously levels out along the crest\nof a ridge.\n\nYou find an easy, confident pace, and begin to notice how effortlessly your legs move on this type of terrain. The lack of obstructions in\nthe trail allows you to take in the view as you hike, and incredible mountain vistas are present on both sides of the trail for a short while - successive waves of blue, smoky ridges trailing off into the distance.\n\nAfter a bit, the trail begins to descend off the ridge and into the trees... gradually at first, then steeper, and your pace finds a decrescendo as you carefully navigate the slope. Many people prefer a strenuous uphill to this, because descending can be fairly hard on\nyour knees and ankles, but after the beating your lungs and legs took on the AT earlier, you are inclined to respectfully disagree.\n\nAfter a total walk of just over two miles, you encounter another trail junction.\n\nTrail Junction (Appalachian and Low Gap trails)\nTwo trails cross here, in the center of what's called Low Gap, so\nnamed because it's the lowest pass through the mountains for over\nfifty miles if you were traveling along the Appalachian Trail headed north. The AT runs from northeast to southwest here, climbing toward Cosby Knob and beyond - all the way to Georgia. The Low Gap trail crosses perpendicular to the AT, descending in both directions: southeast, toward Walnut Bottoms and Big Creek, or northwest, toward the Cosby Campground and, for you, home.\n\nA sign at one side of the junction points the way and provides the mileage to nearby landmarks.\n\nYour socks have shifted uncomfortably in your boots, so you take a\nseat in the clearing to readjust them. Once you're finished, you\ndecide the ground feels good enough to simply rest there for a bit.\n\nA cool breeze builds momentarily from the east, cooling your skin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the boots", "response": "You take your boots off and remove your socks. It feels great to get some air on your feet, but after a bit of a rest you decide it's best to get going again. You put your socks and boots back on, tie the\nlaces securely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sign", "response": "There are two signs on the post. The uppermost sign faces southeast, and is oriented so that you know it pertains to the trail that runs northeast-southwest; it reads:\n\nMt Cammerer 2.1 ->\nLwr Mt Cammerer Trail 4.4 ->\n<- Cosby Knob Shelter 0.8\n\nThe other sign faces southwest and reads:\n\nWalnut Bottoms 2.5 ->\n<- Cosby Campground 2.9", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the soles", "response": "Wonderfully durable boots, size seven narrow. Their heavy leather exterior protects your feet from rocks and roots, they're tall for proper ankle support over rough terrain, the soles tend to keep you from slipping even on slick rocks, and they're lined with Gore-Tex to keep you dry. Your only complaint is that the company claims that the boots 'breathe,' when in fact they seem to keep your feet hot in the summer, freezing cold in the winter. So far, though, they're the best boots you've ever owned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome socks (being worn)\nsome hiking shorts (being worn)\na shirt (being worn)\nsome hiking boots (being worn)\na hip pack (being worn and closed)\na watch (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the watch", "response": "You glance down at your watch, a rather chunky and unstylish accoutrement purchased for fifteen dollars at the drugstore. Fashion critiques aside, it's a functional, water-resistant, glow in the dark timepiece.\n\nAt present, it indicates that the time is 1:59 PM.\n\nThe sun seems to glare down upon you, hot and unrelenting. When will\nit start to sink in the sky? Mid-afternoon is always the harshest time of day to be hiking on a clear day.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Trail Junction (Appalachian and Low Gap trails) (on the ground)\nYou stand in the center of Low Gap, where two trails intersect. For\nthe Appalachian Trail, this is a low spot, and the trail climbs both\nto the southwest, toward Cosby Knob, and northeast, back toward the fire tower. Conversely, this is high spot on the Low Gap trail, which descends into Walnut Bottoms to the southeast and, to the northwest, toward home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "You'll have to get off the ground first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "If that actually could work, you'd certainly miss out on some\nbeautiful scenery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "According to the sign, the AT climbs toward Cosby Knob in that direction. Not only is that out of your way, but it's also uphill, and you're just not down with anymore uphill today.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The Low Gap trail drops down into Walnut Bottoms in that direction. It's a lovely area, but completely out of your way. Home is in the opposite direction, to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "With a lightness in your heart at the realization that you're on the downhill stretch, you set off toward the campground. At first, the going is rather steep, but the trail soon begins to switchback upon itself, snaking slowly downhill toward flatter ground. Though the\ntight switchbacks reduce the angle of descent, they also make the\ntrail longer and limit the space for trees. There seems to be little\nor no shade, and the sun beats down relentlessly upon you as you descend the west-facing ridge. It's tempting to simply cut off-trail and travel crosscountry to save time, but you realize that if everyone did that the erosion along this ridge would be terrible.\n\nAfter about two miles, the switchbacks disappear and you find yourself comforted by the shade of the woods once again. The air is cool here, chilled further by the presence of Cosby Creek, which flows parallel\nto the path for a quarter mile or so. Larger than the other streams you've encountered today, Cosby Creek is full of white-foamed cascades and deep, dark pools. The water of the stream feeds life into the forest, and everything along this stretch is green and moist and\nmossy. From time to time the landscape seems rather surreal, as if you're strolling through a fairytale rather than a real place. After a time, the stream flows off into the forest, out of sight, and you're somewhat sad to see it go. No matter, this means you're even closer to home.\n\nThe trail begins to widen, from a path to a road, and you come to another junction.\n\nTrail Junction (Low Gap & Access trails)\nYou smile as you enter the junction and see the sign in the northeast corner of the clearing:\n\n<- Cosby Campground 0.4\nLow Gap 2.5 ->\n\nLess than half a mile to the campground! Of course, the parking area's another half mile beyond that, but that's of little consequence... you're very close to home now.\n\nSomewhere in the distance, a woodpecker drills in search of insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "No, there's only forest in that direction, with no path amongst the trees. You can return to the parking lot by going either north or\nwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You decide to take the access trail back, seeing as how it's a\nslightly shorter walk in that direction. This portion of the access trail isn't very heavily used and is slightly overgrown; grass brushes against your legs as you walk. After not quite half a mile, you find yourself back in the same clearing you passed through earlier today.\n\nTrail Junction (Lower Mt. Cammerer & Access trails)\nYou're standing at the junction of two trails, one running northwest-southeast, the other running northeast-southwest. At the north corner of the junction, two signs are nailed to a single post indicating where each trail leads.\n\nA previously unseen skink on a nearby log is startled by your presence and skitters under the bark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "To the south lie dense woods, with no path among the trees. Two trails bisect the standard cardinal directions here, one running northeast-southwest, the other northwest-southeast. Your quickest route, back to the parking lot, is northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "No, you've already been down that trail today. It's time to go home. The hiker parking area is just under a half mile to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "That's the longer route back. Not that it matters, really - your feet are up for an extra quarter of a mile. You head down the wide trail (it's more of a road than a trail, really), and quickly find yourselfback in the campground.\n\nLower Mt. Cammerer Trailhead\nA standard NPS trail sign indicates that the Lower Mt. Cammerer trail begins here, leaving the pavement and entering the woods to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "To the north lie dense woods, with no path among the trees. The trail leads into the forest to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You continue walking northwest, through the campground. Parents at a nearby site are setting up their tents for the evening, one for them, and a smaller one for their children. A young boy and girl are\nlaughing and throwing a frisbee (and not throwing it very well)\nnearby. Suddenly, the frisbee comes flying right toward you! Fortunately, you see it coming and deftly toss it to the little girl, who thanks you and runs back to play with her brother. Another quarter mile finds you back in the parking lot.\n\nYou stroll into the parking lot, light on your feet despite the\nsixteen miles behind you, and glance at your watch. It reads three twenty-nine in the afternoon. Not bad time, really, considering all\nthe stops along the way to check things out. You take off your pack\nand plop down on a grassy hill at the western edge of the parking lot. Lying back, angled with your head uphill of your feet, you watch the clouds that are gathering overhead. One of them reminds you of a galax leaf. You smile to yourself, thinking of the wonderful day you've had, close your eyes, listen to the birds the nearby woods, and eventually drift off to sleep in the grass. What a fantastic day.\n\nAs darkness falls, the serenity is broken by the sound of an approaching car, and you open your eyes to see your ride pulling into the parking lot, right on time.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Superhero" ]

[ "cover art", "graphics", "IF Competition 2002", "IFComp Game", "IFComp Winner", "science fiction", "superhero", "Xyzzy Awards 2002", "XYZZY Best Use of Medium" ]

[ 5, 25, 18, 2, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Are you sure you want to quit? \n\nEpisode 2:\nANOTHER EARTH, ANOTHER SKY\n\nIt's been quite a week.\n\nWas it just two nights ago that you found the suits? You were searching through your parents' lab as usual, desperate for clues to explain their recent disappearance, when you found a latch on one of the machines. It opened, revealing two bodysuits crammed inside. One fit you perfectly. The other seemed to be made for your sister Emily. Hers, the \"skysuit\", gives her the power to fly, to generate thick fog, and to fire blasts of intense electrical energy, while your \"earthsuit\" has granted you the strength of a giant, and the invulnerability of a mountain.\n\nThe powers came in handy the next morning, when your parents' best friend, Dr. Nina Icolari, found herself transformed into a raging, hundred-foot-tall monster. Aunt Nina had been working with some ancient bacteria, trapped for eons in a salt crystal, when an untimely earthquake shattered the crystal. She inhaled the microbes, became a behemoth, and only the power of your suits and your brains saved the campus from destruction.\n\nYou employed a fast-acting antibiotic to reverse the transformation, and when she changed back, Aunt Nina realized that her memories of your parents' disappearance had been mysteriously altered... and that the trauma of metamorphosis had somehow restored them. Those memories have led you here, to a remote cabin in the Sierra Nevadas. Here, you hope that where the police have failed, Earth and Sky may succeed.\n\nThe air is vivid and cold here, deep in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Evergreens surround you, except to the north, where a gravel driveway leads back to the main road, and to the south, where a small cabin occupies a clearing. Beyond the cabin, and above it, the observatory's domed roof casts a long, round shadow.\n\nEmily is here, having just hiked up the driveway with you. \"Thanks for driving us up here, Austin,\" she says. \"Remember, though: I get control of the CD player on the way back down!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Emily", "response": "Like you, Emily is decked out in her superhero regalia, a blue skysuit with cloudy white streaks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about the cabin", "response": "You are carrying:\nan earthsuit (being worn)\na cabin key\n\n>\"Pretty tiny, when you look at it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the earthsuit", "response": "It's a form-fitting grey bodysuit, peppered with black speckles and shot through with streaks of yellow and orange, and it grants you immense strength and near-invulnerabilty to impact. The earthsuit is made of a thick, flexible material that you suspect must conceal an amazing array of enhancer circuitry. A combination cowl and mask rises from the collar to cover your head and eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You blast you", "response": "\"I'd better not. We don't know that your suit's electrical resistance is working, remember?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about your suit", "response": "\"I have to say I prefer mine. I'm sure super-strength is great, but your colors are just a little too drab.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about her suit", "response": "\"The superpowers are great and everything, but I'd really prefer something a little less... skintight.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about Nina", "response": "\"Seems like she's recovering OK. I know she really wants to look into how that bacteria was able to do what it did, but I'm not sure if she has any other samples.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cabin", "response": "When an alum of modest means and solitary habits bequeathed this cabin and its small parcel of mountain land to the University, Administration was faced with a choice. They could either sell off the land and put the money into the general fund, or they could try to find some use for it. Enter Dr. Thaddeus Andrews, who offered to use his own inheritance to build an observatory on the land, and to christen it the High Sierra Research Station. Indeed, that's what the sign on this humble little cabin reads. The cabin's door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lift cabin", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lift Emily", "response": "\"Hey. Hey!\" protests Emily. \"Hands off!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock cabin", "response": "(with the cabin key)\nYou unlock the wooden door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about the cabin", "response": "\"Pretty tiny, when you look at it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cabin", "response": "[first opening the cabin door]\nYou step into the relative dimness of the small cabin.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "[Please press a key to continue]\n\nEpisode 2:\nANOTHER EARTH, ANOTHER SKY\n\n\"The Owner of this House\nA Stranger He must be --\nEternity's Acquaintances\nAre mostly so -- to me.\"\n\nEmily follows you.\n\nSome people might describe the interior of this cabin as \"cozy\", but you're more inclined to face facts and call it what it is: cramped. Furnishings are minimal: a table, a few chairs, a hotplate, and a television that probably hasn't worked since the mid-1980s. The back door is south and the front door north, and two doors on the eastern wall lead northeast and southeast, to the bedroom and bathroom respectively.\n\nEmily stands here, looking around.\n\nOn the table are some loose papers.\n\nEmily takes a quick glance at the papers on the table, and exhales.\n\n\"Listen, Austin,\" she says, \"I find all these diagrams and observatories and whatnot a bit exhausting, so I'd like for you to take the lead for a while, if that's OK. Let me know if there's anything specific you'd like me to do -- otherwise I'm just going to follow you around and offer my help if I think of anything that seems significant.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"No problem.\"\n2) \"Don't sell yourself short. Just because you're not a scientist doesn't mean you can't comprehend this stuff.\"\n3) \"Oh sure. When it comes to flying around and fighting monsters, you're all over it, but things like diagrams just tucker you out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 3\n\nShe laughs. \"Well, I could probably do diagram-reading and then monster-fighting, but for some strange reason I find the other way round just a wee bit more taxing.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cabin", "response": "[first opening the cabin door]\nYou step into the relative dimness of the small cabin.\n\nEpisode 2:\nANOTHER EARTH, ANOTHER SKY\n\n\"The Owner of this House\nA Stranger He must be --\nEternity's Acquaintances\nAre mostly so -- to me.\"\n\nEmily follows you.\n\nSome people might describe the interior of this cabin as \"cozy\", but you're more inclined to face facts and call it what it is: cramped. Furnishings are minimal: a table, a few chairs, a hotplate, and a television that probably hasn't worked since the mid-1980s. The back door is south and the front door north, and two doors on the eastern wall lead northeast and southeast, to the bedroom and bathroom respectively.\n\nEmily is here, watching you.\n\nOn the table are some loose papers.\n\nEmily takes a quick glance at the papers on the table, and exhales.\n\n\"Listen, Austin,\" she says, \"I find all these diagrams and observatories and whatnot a bit exhausting, so I'd like for you to take the lead for a while, if that's OK. Let me know if there's anything specific you'd like me to do -- otherwise I'm just going to follow you around and offer my help if I think of anything that seems significant.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"No problem.\"\n2) \"Don't sell yourself short. Just because you're not a scientist doesn't mean you can't comprehend this stuff.\"\n3) \"Oh sure. When it comes to flying around and fighting monsters, you're all over it, but things like diagrams just tucker you out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 2\n\n\"I never said I couldn't comprehend it, just that it annoys and tires me to mess with it. I need a break, okay? I had a pretty rough day yesterday -- it's your turn to be the leader of this outfit.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read papers", "response": "These papers are torn from a legal pad, and you recognize your father's handwriting and his extremely minimalist notation style on them. Most of them contain diagrams and equations that look quite similar to those you found with the suits, but there is one paper that seems to have notes on an unrelated topic:\n\nWWK: [This you recognize as Dad's abbreviation for \"What We Know\" -- he's in the habit of making \"What We Know\" lists when trying to figure out a problem.]\n\n1) Al. thru port.\n2)T gone\n3)T cont. by Al. (4 help?)\n4)Al. prob. OK, but ???\n5)N's mic. maybe invol.?\n\nMust purs. -- Claire agr.\n\nClaire is your mom's name, but that's all you can say for sure about this note.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the papers to Emily", "response": "(first taking the loose papers)\n\"I'm horrible at figuring out Dad's notes, but I bet this last word is 'agree.' I wonder what Mom agreed to?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about the papers", "response": "\"That's pretty definitive proof that at least Dad was here.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "This dilapidated old wreck of a TV appears to have been cannibalized for spare parts some time ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "This battered table looks like it's seen many a meal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hotplate", "response": "Here you thought it was only college students whose only culinary equipment consisted of a hotplate and a saucepan. Turns out at least one college professor shares the predilection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the table", "response": "Dust. Ancient scraps of food. The occasional ant. In short, nothing interesting or useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nDusty, golden light seeps in through the closed curtains, further highlighting the various earth tones that adorn this sparse room. The wallpaper is brownish-orange, the nightstand is dark oak, the bedspread burnt sienna, and so on. The cabin's main room is west.\n\n\"Wow,\" says Emily. \"Somebody hasn't redecorated since the 1970s.\"\n\nEmily is alongside you, resplendent in blue and white.\n\nThe nightstand has a drawer, which is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open drawer", "response": "The drawer is locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break drawer", "response": "CRRASH! You hammer your fist on the oak tabletop, and the nightstand splinters into pieces. A notepad and a legal pad appear to be lying amid the debris.\n\n\"If I ever open an antique store,\" says Emily, \"you aren't allowed in.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the notepad", "response": "From the unfamiliar handwriting and the nature of the notes, you surmise that this notepad must belong to Dr. Andrews. Amid pages of detail about the orbital periods of various planets, telescope azimuths and elevations, spectroscope readings, and suchlike, you find a crude drawing of an apparently artificial sphere, with a cross-section showing an inner circle connected to its outer shell by two long columns.\n\nBeneath these pictures is a swarm of equations, some of which appear to be calculations of density, gravitational pull, and surface temperature. The temperature equations in particular are interesting, as it appears that Dr. Andrews was either unable to come up with a solution, or unable to settle on one of many.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the notepad and the legal pad", "response": "notepad: Taken.\nlegal pad: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the debris", "response": "These are the remains of a once-proud nightstand. Well, maybe not proud. A once-intact nightstand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine legal", "response": "This is one of those legal pads that your Dad is known for filling with his cryptic notations, and indeed, this one bears his signature style. The notes are for a process that looks utterly unfamiliar to you. The most you can piece together is that it takes the dumbbell-shaped wave function of an electron at a particular energy state and splits it into two bubbles (though how a wave function can even be treated as a physical entity, let alone split, is left unexplained), allowing \"half-electrons\" to jump instantaneously from one bubble to the next along some extra-dimensional quantum pathway. Dad's laconic note-taking style doesn't make clear whether this is just a thought experiment, but knowing him, he's probably found some physical use for it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the notepad to Emily", "response": "She scratches her head. \"Yikes,\" she says. \"That thing looks like a hamster wheel.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "The bed is unmade, and you suspect that's its natural state.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the bed", "response": "Peering under the bed, you discover... that Thaddeus Andrews apparently was not big on the concept of \"dusting.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about Andrews", "response": "\"I never met him. Small wonder, really, considering how much time he spent up here.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dust", "response": "What do you want to dust?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the curtains", "response": "You open the curtains, letting light through the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the window", "response": "You see the driveway and evergreens outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bedspread", "response": "This bedspread is rumpled and messy, and obviously many years old.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nSome people might describe the interior of this cabin as \"cozy\", but you're more inclined to face facts and call it what it is: cramped. Furnishings are minimal: a table, a few chairs, a hotplate, and a television that probably hasn't worked since the mid-1980s. The back door is south and the front door north, and two doors on the eastern wall lead northeast and southeast, to the bedroom and bathroom respectively.\n\nEmily stands here, looking around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "There are several ways out. Please specify a direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "[first opening the back door]\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the back door", "response": "You unlock the back door from the inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the back door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThe view from behind the cabin is spectacular. The research station isn't situated in the highest part of the mountain range -- it isn't even above timberline -- but it's high enough to afford an expansive panorama of the valley below. The observatory is a little further up the incline to the south, and the cabin stands to the north, its back door open.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "Emily rockets upward, swooping out over the valley. \"Whooooooo!\" she cries. \"It's just beautiful up here!\" After a few more aerial fillips, she returns to earth. \"I didn't see anything alarming, but it is a heckuva view.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about the roof", "response": "\"It keeps the rain out, I guess.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nA rocky path ends here, just north of the door to the concrete, rectangular portion of the observatory. Unlike the small observatory on the main campus, this one makes no particular concessions to aesthetics, and its door wouldn't be out of place on a bank vault. The path leads back down and north to the cabin.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The observatory door is an imposing affair, with a large U-shaped handle and a very serious-looking lock. It's hard to be sure, but you're guessing the door's made of solid steel, no doubt with a massive deadbolt. It's currently shut tight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock door", "response": "(with the cabin key)\nThat doesn't seem to fit the lock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "She nods, and floats upwards. When she alights on the ground again, she says, \"The telescope dome is closed, and there are a bunch of solar panels on the roof, but that's about all I noticed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the door", "response": "BANG! You slam your fist into the door, denting it a little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Zap door", "response": "\"Yeah! I'll give it my fastball,\" says Emily. She goes into an exaggerated windup, and as her hand comes forward for the pitch, brilliant blue electricity crackles between her fingertips and the steel door. An explosive KER-POW splits the air, and the steel door is left standing, scorched but unmoved.\n\n\"Well, that was anticlimactic,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lift observatory", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the door", "response": "SKREEEEEEEK! Planting your feet firmly, you pull at the handle. The door strains, then buckles, and the handle comes partway detached. But by then you can grip the door itself, and a mighty heave pulls it the rest of the way free, tearing it right off its hinges.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give door to Emily", "response": "(first taking the mangled steel door)\nYou've already rendered the door useless. Let it go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThe observatory is astonishing. It's not the desk, or the computer, or the other laboratory accoutrements that make it so, but rather the staggeringly complex mass of ornate machinery that smothers every wall. Tubes, readouts, and gleaming metal plates swarm together in a lunatic collage, every lever and dial shouting your parents' design influence as surely as if they had autographed their work. You've known these sights all your life, but their presence here is a shock -- clearly, Mom and Dad were collaborating far more closely with Dr. Andrews than they ever revealed. The newly opened entranceway leads back north, and a doorway leads east to the telescope dome.\n\nEmily leans against the wall here.\n\nIn front of the dome doorway, seemingly generated by the room's prodigious gadgetry, is a curious projection: a curtain of light, within which coruscate ever-shifting patterns and colors. The curtain covers the doorway completely -- there doesn't seem to be any way to cross the threshold into the dome without first crossing the flickering barrier.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the curtain", "response": "The patterns of light that define the curtain refuse to stay still. Symmetrical fluorescent squiggles travel from the edges to the center, only to dissolve into sparkling dots that dance in Brownian ecstasy, adhering into gentle pastel waves, which in turn become spinning geometric designs, and so on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na legal pad\na notepad\nsome loose papers\nan earthsuit (being worn)\na cabin key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Gingerly, you reach out to touch the sparkling curtain, and feel a force pull sharply on your fingers, drawing you further into the light. Startled, you yank your hand out and back away from the curtain, with a clammy suspicion that it was only the power of the earthsuit that allowed you to break free of that inexorable pull.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about the the curtain", "response": "\"Freaky, isn't it? I feel like the Jefferson Airplane should be playing in front of it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Emily at the curtain", "response": "(first taking Emily)\n\"Hey. Hey!\" protests Emily. \"Hands off!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the key at the curtain", "response": "The cabin key sails toward the curtain of light, and disappears. The barrier is only semi-transparent, but you don't see the cabin key land on the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "\"I think I'd prefer to stick together.\"\n\n>Unlike the corporate, modular furniture popular in university offices, this is an honest-to-goodness desk: huge, made of wood, big file drawer... the works. There is a computer on the desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine computer", "response": "A cursory examination of the computer reveals that it is password-locked, and you haven't got a clue what Andrews' password might be. Looks like this is one lock that you won't be able to tear open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine file drawer", "response": "The drawer is closed, but doesn't appear to have a lock. Apparently Dr. Andrews thought that the immense steel door was security enough. So much for that theory!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the drawer, revealing a headset.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the headset", "response": "It's clear that this device is meant to be worn on the head, but that's the only obvious thing about it. It's got one piece that seems intended to fit over the ear, and another that arcs over the head and balances out the other side. The earpiece bristles with electronics.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "You put on the headset.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the headset on", "response": "You don't see an on/off switch on the headset. Unless you miss your guess, Mom and Dad probably outfitted it with a permanent, long-lasting power supply, so it's always on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machinery", "response": "Sometimes, growing up, you suspected that Mom and Dad's designs were deliberately ornate, exposing their complexity in order to impress or intimidate. As you've gotten older, though, and learned more from them, you've realized that the reason the complexity isn't covered is because neither one of them wants to waste time on making things pretty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the notepad", "response": "What do you want to type that on?\n\n>You find nothing of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You type Andrews on the computer", "response": "Nice try.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The observatory is astonishing. It's not the desk, or the computer, or the other laboratory accoutrements that make it so, but rather the staggeringly complex mass of ornate machinery that smothers every wall. Tubes, readouts, and gleaming metal plates swarm together in a lunatic collage, every lever and dial shouting your parents' design influence as surely as if they had autographed their work. You've known these sights all your life, but their presence here is a shock -- clearly, Mom and Dad were collaborating far more closely with Dr. Andrews than they ever revealed. The newly opened entranceway leads back north, and a doorway leads east to the telescope dome.\n\nEmily leans against the wall here.\n\nThe patterns of light flicker hypnotically in front of the dome doorway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about the password", "response": "\"A good question. A very good question. Okay, I actually have no idea what you mean.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily about the headset", "response": "\"Looks like one of Mom and Dad's gadgets to me. Not that I have a clue what purpose it might serve. Still, might be good to have along.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lever", "response": "Sometimes, growing up, you suspected that Mom and Dad's designs were deliberately ornate, exposing their complexity in order to impress or intimidate. As you've gotten older, though, and learned more from them, you've realized that the reason the complexity isn't covered is because neither one of them wants to waste time on making things pretty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the curtain", "response": "There is only the doorway beyond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at doorway", "response": "The doorway seems to twist and flash behind the translucent light patterns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the doorway", "response": "Not after last time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog curtain", "response": "\"You got it,\" says Emily, and stares intently at the curtain of light. Nothing happens at all, and her face scrunches in frustration. \"It's not working,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast curtain", "response": "Emily nods, and extends her hand towards the curtain of light. Nothing happens. \"Well, that's a gyp,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say open the sesame", "response": "(to Emily)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You take a decisive step towards the curtain of light, and Emily catches your arm. \"Austin, wait!\" You turn to face her.\n\n\"We don't know what will happen when you try to cross that curtain,\" she says. \"I think we should stop and think a moment before we do it. Do you think we should really take the risk?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"I think we have to, Em. I think this curtain has everything to do with Mom and Dad's disappearance.\"\n2) \"You're right. Let's back off for now and I'll consider what else we can do here.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 2\n\n\"Fair enough.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Emily", "response": "Emily is already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You take a decisive step towards the curtain of light, and Emily catches your arm. \"Here we go again,\" she says. \"Look, let's talk about this instead of you just charging off. Do you really think it's worth the risk to cross this curtain?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"I think we have to, Em. I think this curtain has everything to do with Mom and Dad's disappearance.\"\n2) \"You're right. Let's back off for now and I'll consider what else we can do here.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 1\n\n\"I guess you're right,\" she says, \"but shouldn't we make a team decision about it? We have no idea what it does, or if it even does anything. Austin, what if it's broken, or a trap, or something? It could kill us to go through there!\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"And what are the alternatives? Call the police, or the Army or something, and have them charge through there? If Mom and Dad have been kidnapped, we could be putting them in greater danger by doing that. And they did say not to involve the authorities unless absolutely necessary. No, I'm going to try it.\"\n2) \"My god, that's true. You're right. I need to take a little more time to think this over.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 1\n\n\"Okay, I accept all that,\" says Emily. \"Still, if it is dangerous, should I go through with you, or stay here in case you don't come back?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"I can't make that decision for you, Em. But if you're asking my opinion, I think we should go through together. It might take all the power both of us can muster to face whatever's across that barrier.\" 2) \"I can't make that decision for you, Em. If it were my call, I'd say you should stay here. No sense both of us taking such a huge risk, and maybe if I don't come back, you can go ahead and get the Army or whatever, and send the cavalry my way.\"\n3) \"I can't make that decision for you, Em. I see pros and cons either way. But I'm walking through that curtain, and whether or not you follow me is up to you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 3\n\nEmily sets her jaw. \"Then I'm coming with you. We may need all the power that both of us possess to face whatever's on the other side of that curtain.\"\n\n\"Watch,\" you say. \"We'll walk right through and nothing will happen at all.\"\n\n\"That would be great,\" she replies grimly, \"but somehow I doubt it.\" She grabs your hand, and the two of you step into the light together.\n\nEpisode 2:\nANOTHER EARTH, ANOTHER SKY\n\n\"How soft this Prison is\nHow sweet these sullen bars\nNo Despot but the King of Down\nInvented this repose\"\n\n. . .\n\n. . .\n\nSleepily, you open your eyes. What's that pinkish glow? Sunrise? Did you leave the bedroom window open? Wait, this isn't your bedroom. Where...?\n\nWait -- the curtain! You stepped through with Emily, and that's the last thing you remember before awakening on this... floor. And Emily -- she's gone!\n\nYou find yourself in a small, square room, perhaps eight feet on a side. The ceiling is high, maybe fifteen feet above your head, but what's even stranger is that it and all the walls are glowing with a bright pink energy field.\n\nYou can see a cabin key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the field", "response": "A bright pink field of energy glows from the walls and ceiling, radiating about six inches from them. It hurts your eyes to look at the field too long, but it's also sort of hard not to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the field", "response": "The energy yields momentarily to your touch, then repels your fingers as gently as you applied them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the field", "response": "Picking a wall at random, you aim a punch at the energy field. The field slows your fist, stops it, and then propels it back outward with kinetic force equal to that of your blow. You never penetrated the field more than an inch or two.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the floor", "response": "THOOM! You bring your mighty foot down on the polymer floor, causing a minor tremor. The floor seems completely unaffected.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na cabin key\na headset (being worn)\na legal pad\na notepad\nsome loose papers\nan earthsuit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shout", "response": "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You crouch, then launch yourself at the ceiling. As you expected, the energy field absorbs your momentum, then propels you back downward with equal force. You hurtle towards the floor, hitting it with a tremendous CRRUNCH! Beneath your feet, a spiderwebbed network of hairline cracks radiates from the point of impact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "Once again, you leap upwards, bouncing off the ceiling's energy field to smack into the floor with a resounding CRRUNCH! The cracks have grown larger, and light filters through some of them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "Bracing yourself for a final assault on the weakening floor, you vault upward, then plummet down again. This time, when your feet slam into the polymer, there is a deafening KA-THUNKK! as the floor splits, and you find yourself falling.\n\nAnd falling. Air buffets your face and whistles past your ears, as you try to take in the situation. You appear to be falling to Earth, from a great height, as if you had just jumped out of a plane, sans parachute. The ground below you, though... there's something strange about it. You can see its curvature, as if you were much farther away from the planet than you seem to be. Or as if the planet itself had shrunk.\n\nAs the ground comes closer, you can see that the planet itself seems demarcated into clearly defined zones -- a bluish-white Arctic, a sandy desert, a blue-green ocean, and others -- all tidily encased in separate regions of the globe. Even stranger, you're catching glimpses of a huge metal cylinder that rises up from the ground and far into the sky above you. This isn't Earth you're falling towards. Either that, or Earth has changed a lot since the last time you were above it. Gravity feels about the same, though -- the ground is still rushing towards you at alarming speed. Actually, you're rushing towards it. Funny, how many thoughts can pass through your brain in a situation like this. The suit is supposed to make you invulnerable to impact, but will it really protect you from this kind of fall? Guess you're about to find--\n\nW H A M M O !\n\nEpisode 2:\nANOTHER EARTH, ANOTHER SKY\n\n\"I saw no Way -- The Heavens were stitched --\nI felt the Columns close --\nThe Earth reversed her Hemispheres --\nI touched the Universe --\"\n\nArctic (in the ice hole)\nYou remember the ground, blinding white, reaching up to clobber you. Then blackness. Then cold. Serious cold. As you gather your senses back to you, several things become clear. One, you're not dead -- in fact, not even hurt, though a little dazed. Two, you've landed in a cold place. And three, your landing has created a deep pit with icy walls, and you're at the bottom of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You spring upwards and fly out of the hole more quickly than you expected. Landing softly in the snow, you estimate that gravity must be around 0.8G on this planetoid.\n\nIcy monoliths, ridged with frozen rivulets, rise up around you. Your suit's insulation feels distressingly meager in the freezing, stinging wind, and the light glistens white as the snow reflects the distant sun. For all you know, you're at the pole of this little world, so compass directions don't mean much, but you invent some just to keep your bearings. The faraway blue-green smudge is north, the faraway tan smudge south. Your views east and west are blocked by huge, rugged breccia hills.\n\nA deep crater is here, which is what happens when an immovable object like this glacier meets an irresistible force like a plummeting superhero.\n\nBeside the crater, a long metal tube reaches into the sky. The bottom of the tube has been entirely dislodged from its base, no doubt wrecked by your recent impact.\n\nThat impact also appears to have exposed some sort of access panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tube", "response": "A metal cylinder, wide enough that you could comfortably fit inside it -- if you could figure out how to enter it, that is. As your eyes follow it upward, you can see that it terminates alongside a glowing, pink hole in the sky. Its other end, at your feet, has been wrenched free from the ground, exposing a base rife with wrecked machinery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the access panel", "response": "The panel is set directly into the ground. It's acquired a light dusting of snow, leading you to conclude that your cataclysmic entrance probably removed the panel's cover. Its only control is a square touchplate, colored indigo and emblazoned with an upwards-pointing triangle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the base", "response": "The base of the tube contains a great deal of intricate machinery, some of it obviously crushed or torn by its forced separation from the tube proper.\n\nIn the distance, you can see a rookery of penguins waddling blissfully around the ice. Or, wait. Are they penguins? They appear to be throwing snowballs at each other. Penguins can't throw, can they? Taking a closer look, you fancy that their heads are larger than those of normal penguins, and that you can make out gripping fingers at the edge of their wings.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Icy monoliths, ridged with frozen rivulets, rise up around you. Your suit's insulation feels distressingly meager in the freezing, stinging wind, and the light glistens white as the snow reflects the distant sun. For all you know, you're at the pole of this little world, so compass directions don't mean much, but you invent some just to keep your bearings. The faraway blue-green smudge is north, the faraway tan smudge south. Your views east and west are blocked by huge, rugged breccia hills.\n\nA deep crater is here, which is what happens when an immovable object like this glacier meets an irresistible force like a plummeting superhero.\n\nBeside the crater, a long metal tube reaches into the sky. The bottom of the tube has been entirely dislodged from its base, no doubt wrecked by your recent impact.\n\nThat impact also appears to have exposed some sort of access panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crater", "response": "The hole is probably twenty feet deep. If you were Wile E. Coyote, it would be shaped like an outline of your body, but instead it's more generally crater-like, though a deep crater rather than a wide one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pink hole", "response": "Like a punctured eggshell, the sky is missing a piece, letting pink light shine through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You begin trudging northwards for a few minutes, but the landscape changes little. This planet may be much smaller than Earth, but it'll still take you ages to get anywhere on foot. So you head back to where you stared from, thinking that there's got to be an easier way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leap north", "response": "You take a running start, get up to top speed, and then vault upwards. The ground drops away beneath you -- gravity is definitely less than 1G on this planetoid, though your mind boggles to think how dense the core must be in order to even come close. Your thoughts return to the present as the border of the arctic area approaches -- the demarcation between it and the adjoining areas is distinct and sharp. Incredibly, you've traveled almost 45 degrees across the sphere already, and your trajectory will take you another 45, to the side of the sphere, before you land. Always assuming, of course, that the borders are permeable.\n\nAs the border passes beneath you, a momentary nausea sweeps over you, gone as soon as you enter the next area.\n\nYou've reached the arc of your parabola, and have begun to descend. An ocean sloshes below you, uncluttered by islands or land masses. As the water approaches, you suddenly realize that some of the things you're carrying will be ruined if they get wet. Frantically running your hands along your costume searching for a pouch, your finger slides over a line that splits into an opening. Thinking quickly, you stuff the items inside, and run your finger along the line to close it again. Just in time, too, because you hit the water with a massive SPLOOSH!\n\nOnce your head is submerged, a plastic sheath emerges from the sides of your cowl, covering your nose and mouth. You take a hesitant breath, and realize that the suit must be filtering oxygen from the water. Mom and Dad sure planned ahead when they made this thing! Unfortunately, they apparently weren't able to make it very lightweight, and you quickly sink to the ocean floor.\n\nYou're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nA large circular door, apparently a hatch, is set in the ground here.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate embedded in rock about ten yards away from the hatch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hatch", "response": "The hatch is of a rather generous diameter, and appears to be made of the same polymer as the floor of your former cell. In its center is a turquoise touchplate. The hatch is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "The walls are close and smooth in this utterly nondescript, cylindrical room, currently filled with water. The only noteworthy feature is that a couple of touchplates adorn one wall, one crimson and one turquoise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na cabin key\na headset\na legal pad\na notepad\nsome loose papers\nan earthsuit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear headset", "response": "You put on the headset.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "You're now standing beneath the mirrored bubble. The air in this room feels rather stale, and the only light comes from the plants outside the bubble. That bubble gives an excellent view of the ocean floor, and you surmise that this room must have been built for observation of that area. The waterlock is west of here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plants", "response": "You see the ocean floor, dimly illuminated by bioluminescent plants.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bubble", "response": "The bubble must act as a sort of one-way glass, though it's clearly made from something much tougher than glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The walls are close and smooth in this utterly nondescript, cylindrical room. The only noteworthy feature is that a couple of touchplates adorn one wall, one crimson and one turquoise. There's also an exit to, oh let's call it the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move it", "response": "You push some of the sand more toward the center of the dome, but more flows in through the gap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the platforms", "response": "If you had to guess, you'd say these platforms serve as furniture for whoever built this dome.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pedestal", "response": "This is just a small, cylindrical pedestal, about four feet high. Atop its angled surface is a crimson touchplate.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "You're in a dome, probably about ten feet high at its zenith and twenty feet in diameter at its base. The wall is transparent, but that's not too useful, since the entire dome appears to be buried in sand. There are several platforms on the ground, reaching to your hip and covered with a soft bedding on top, and to one side of these is a pedestal with a crimson touchplate. You can see no exits.\n\nOn one side of the dome, a large pile of sand covers the floor, drifting to its highest point at a junction of dome wall and floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "(the pile of sand)\nThe pile of sand is fairly shallow, and there's nothing buried in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gap", "response": "There's about a six-inch gap between the dome wall and floor, through which has spilled an impressive quantity of sand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the sand", "response": "(first taking the pile of sand)\nThere's no particular reason to carry around a bunch of sand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the dome", "response": "Your punch bounces ineffectually off the dome wall, though you do hear a creak, and the sound of the sand shifting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open gap", "response": "You bend your knees, work your fingers into the gap, and heave. You can feel the earthsuit augmenting your muscles, its amazing strength struggling against the weight of the dome and the sand surrounding it. You feel it give, just a little, and you redouble your efforts, shaking with the strain. Sand flows between your feet as the dome edge inches ever higher, and finally, with a mighty CREEEAK!, the rest of the seal gives way, and a tsunami of sand smacks you in the face. Spluttering and coughing, you dig yourself out of the dune, and pull the dome the rest of the way free. The pedestal and platforms are buried -- all that's left of the dome is its shell, upended into the big bowl beside you.\n\nThe first thing you notice is the heat. It is punishing, astonishing, like standing inside an inferno that burns without flames. Your suit insulates you somewhat, and a lucky thing, too, because otherwise you wouldn't last long under a sun that feels like it's just a few feet away. It's hard to tell which direction is which, since you emerged from the dome rather than landing here -- you'll need to invent some directions based on gut instinct and hope they work out. So let's say that the cool, distant greenness is east, and the gentler, golden hue is west. Sand dunes block your view north and south.\n\nA large, Y-shaped cactus stands nearby.\n\nYou can also see an enormous bowl (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cactus", "response": "This sturdy cactus looks like a headless, prickly, green referee signaling a touchdown. Hmm, maybe extreme heat affects your brain's ability to come up with good metaphors. The sun is shining directly between the arms of the cactus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bowl", "response": "The bowl is too big and awkward to carry while you're holding anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "cabin key: Dropped.\nlegal pad: Dropped.\nnotepad: Dropped.\nloose papers: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bowl", "response": "You heft the bowl over your head. Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bowl on the cactus", "response": "The bowl is way, way, way too big to fit between the cactus' arms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "You set the bowl down near the cactus.\nenormous bowl: You heft the bowl over your head. Taken.\nloose papers: You can't pick up anything else while you're carrying the bowl.\nnotepad: You can't pick up anything else while you're carrying the bowl.\nlegal pad: You can't pick up anything else while you're carrying the bowl.\ncabin key: You can't pick up anything else while you're carrying the bowl.\ncactus: You can't pick up anything else while you're carrying the bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the bowl", "response": "You set the bowl down near the cactus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all except the bowl", "response": "loose papers: Taken.\nnotepad: Taken.\nlegal pad: Taken.\ncabin key: Taken.\ncactus: Somehow, you don't have the heart to uproot the only sign of life you see here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "The first thing you notice is the heat. It is punishing, astonishing, like standing inside an inferno that burns without flames. Your suit insulates you somewhat, and a lucky thing, too, because otherwise you wouldn't last long under a sun that feels like it's just a few feet away. It's hard to tell which direction is which, since you emerged from the dome rather than landing here -- you'll need to invent some directions based on gut instinct and hope they work out. So let's say that the cool, distant greenness is east, and the gentler, golden hue is west. Sand dunes block your view north and south.\n\nA large, Y-shaped cactus stands nearby.\n\nYou can also see an enormous bowl (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump east", "response": "Once again, you get a running start and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nFrom the zenith of your jump, it looks like a lush, green carpet is spread below you, but as you fall, the landscape soon resolves itself into treetops, with occasional glimpses of tall, thick trunks below the canopy, and one clearly artificial tower that is even taller than the surrounding forest. By now, you've gotten the hang of steering your descent a little, so you aim towards that tower, crashing through the branches and landing solidly at its base.\n\nThe air is cool and quiet down here, far beneath the treetop canopy. On every side of you, massive trunks rise majestically. These trees are enormous, like old-growth redwoods but growing higher than Earth gravity would ever permit. The trees completely block the horizon, and you feel quite disoriented as to where the compass directions are.\n\nBeside you is the base of a tower that's even taller than the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "The sheer height of these trees is absolutely breathtaking. Their bark is smooth and tan, and even their lowest branches are a hundred feet above your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tower", "response": "This tower appears to be made of the same familiar polymer from the floor of your cell, and its sides are perfectly smooth. It rises well out of sight, past the treetops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You launch yourself straight upward, shooting above the treetops and hanging in space above the forest for a moment. You catch a glimpse of icy whiteness -- the Arctic area -- so that's where north is. Then you're hurtling down once more, landing heavily at the tower base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "Not a chance -- even the lowest branches are far above you. Also, since these trees grew in a low-grav environment, you have your doubts that their branches would support you all that well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the tower", "response": "The tower seems utterly impervious to your hammering fists.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You can make out the sounds of complex, varied birdsong from high above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The air smells crisp and clean here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump east", "response": "There isn't a great deal of room to run, but you do your best, and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYou've reached the arc of your parabola, and have begun to descend. An ocean sloshes below you, uncluttered by islands or land masses. As you fly through the air, you tuck your non-waterproof possessions into the suit pouch. Soon, you hit the water with a massive SPLOOSH!\n\nAs you sink, the suit begins supplying oxygen to you.\n\nYou're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nA large circular door, apparently a hatch, is set in the ground here.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate embedded in rock about ten yards away from the hatch.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "In the funnies, all deserted islands are barely large enough to fit two people, and always have a palm tree in the middle. This island is just like that, except without the palm tree. Orienting yourself by the distant smudges, you decide that the Forest is west, the beige smudge is east, and the bright green smudge is south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump south", "response": "You can't get much of a running start in such a tiny area, but you crouch and launch yourself upwards, and that seems to provide sufficient momentum.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYour landing spot is entirely obscured by thick, grey clouds, pierced by a long, metal tube that reaches far into the sky. You fall into the clouds, soaked in rain, thinking of Emily -- please, let her be okay. Suddenly a thick, broad leaf strikes you across the face, and you're crashing through slick, wet vegetation. One bouncing, awkward, and destructive fall later, you pick yourself up from damp ground, brush the mud off your costume, and look around.\n\nYou stand amidst a symphony of green. Deep jade moss covers the trunks of trees, whose leaves far above filter mottled avocado light over emerald bushes and green grass -- adjectives run out long before the shades of green do. The air is warm, muggy, and filled with the sounds of wildlife.\n\nBeside you is the bottom of a long steel tube that rises into the sky and past the clouds.\n\nOne small square at your feet appears free of moss, or at least it might, if you could see past the swarming mass of slugs that infest it.\n\nA closed metal canister sits next to the slug-infested square.\n\nIn a rare patch of foliage-free ground near you, the mirrored surface of a dome reflects the surrounding greenery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine canister", "response": "This is a small canister, about twice the size of a beer can.\n\nYou hear voices in conversation above you -- no language you've ever heard, but clearly a dialogue -- and look up to see two parrots on a nearby branch, vocalizing to each other with occasional glances at you. Their tones make you feel like you've just crashed a very exclusive party, and are terribly underdressed to boot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the parrots", "response": "You can't be sure that these birds are actually parrots, of course, but that's what they most resemble, with perhaps somewhat larger heads, and feet that more closely resemble articulated fingers. One of the birds sports the sort of blue, yellow, and green plumage that accompany your mental default image of a parrot, while the other is a uniform shade of grey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the parrots about Emily", "response": "There is no reply.\n\nYou hear a crashing, thumping sound from above, and jump out of the way. No one falls, though, and in a moment it becomes clear that one of the parrots was imitating the sound of your galumphing descent through the rainforest vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the slugs", "response": "You've never seen this behavior in slugs before -- they're crawling over, under, and around each other in a slimy, pale mass. They're covering the panel almost completely.\n\nYou hear a crashing, thumping sound from above, and jump out of the way. No one falls, though, and in a moment it becomes clear that one of the parrots was imitating the sound of your galumphing descent through the rainforest vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the panel", "response": "What with the slugfest, it's difficult to discern anything about the square. You do occasionally see a tiny corner of indigo underneath the slimy swarm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tube", "response": "This tube is an exact duplicate of the one from the Arctic area, with one salient difference: it hasn't been wrecked by a massive impact. It looks easily wide enough to fit yourself into -- if you can figure out how to enter it, that is.\n\nOne of the parrots squawks loudly and indignantly, but you're not sure whether its outrage is directed at you, at the other parrot, or at the world in general.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the moss", "response": "Water runs down the sides of these trees in a continual trickle, feeding the moss that grows on every trunk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trees", "response": "Water runs down the sides of these trees in a continual trickle, feeding the moss that grows on every trunk.\n\nIn unison, the parrots fly to a different branch, and resume their conversation from there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the parrots", "response": "You can't be sure that these birds are actually parrots, of course, but that's what they most resemble, with perhaps somewhat larger heads, and feet that more closely resemble articulated fingers. One of the birds sports the sort of blue, yellow, and green plumage that accompany your mental default image of a parrot, while the other is a uniform shade of grey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the canister", "response": "You open the canister, revealing a few crystal grains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the grains", "response": "These are a few grains of a white, crystalline substance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You taste the grains", "response": "A bit reluctantly, you shake the grains onto your tongue, and swallow. They were common table salt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close canister", "response": "You close the canister.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the canister", "response": "You can't see inside, since the canister is closed.\n\nYou hear a crashing, thumping sound from above, and jump out of the way. No one falls, though, and in a moment it becomes clear that one of the parrots was imitating the sound of your galumphing descent through the rainforest vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the canister", "response": "You open the canister.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the canister", "response": "The canister is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na canister (which is open but empty)\na cabin key\na legal pad\na notepad\nsome loose papers\na headset\nan earthsuit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "If this is the opposite pole from the Arctic area, everything is north of here, in a sense. However, that doesn't do you much good -- you'll need to decide on some arbitrary directions, preferably ones that correspond with the ones you've been using so far. So you launch yourself straight upward, punching through the rainclouds and hanging for a moment in the sunshine above them. Quickly, you look around: the sand dunes of the Desert area are visible from here, so that would be north. You fall back through the clouds and trees, with an improved sense of direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump west", "response": "There isn't a great deal of room to run, but you do your best, and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYou're descending towards a broad savannah, sparsely dotted with tall trees. For a second, you think you spot movement, the grasses parting and dark shapes darting away over the gentle hills, but once you land and look around, everything seems perfectly still.\n\nTall grasses of faded gold reach past your knees, swaying; here and there, baobab trees pose elegantly against a brilliant blue sky. Soft hills ripple through this prairie, and the hot, thick air buzzes with the sounds of distant insects. You can see blue-whiteness in one direction -- the Arctic area -- so that's north, and the Rainforest area is south. Far on the eastern horizon is the tan haze of the Desert area, and the blue-green Ocean shimmers in the distant west.\n\nBeside you is a dome, its mirrored surface reflecting the sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine dome", "response": "The dome is about ten feet high at its zenith, and perhaps twenty feet in diameter at its base. Its surface is reflective, but you don't recognize the material it's made of -- no doubt another miracle polymer from the same technology that produced your cell floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You briefly boogie to music only you can hear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Your singing is abominable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "You're a superhero, not a magician.\n\nSomething tickles your peripheral vision, and you turn. A feline face is peeking over one of the ridges, and its eyes lock with yours for a moment. Then it disappears, leaving the tall grass rocking behind it. The moment passed quickly, but you did notice that the head was more oval than triangular, and that the space between the eyes and ears was enough to contain a brainpan larger than that of any earth cat. In fact, the size of the head seemed to imply a rather large creature overall.\n\nYou stealthily approach the ridge and look over. About a hundred yards away, there are perhaps a half-dozen cat-creatures, feline bodies covered with fur but walking upright on their hind legs, and with articulated gripping fingers on their front paws, from which you can see claws occasionally extending. They are indeed large, probably about eight feet tall and impressively muscled. The cat-people notice you immediately, and retreat to a safe distance, but from there regard you with equal curiosity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cats", "response": "These creatures are definitely feline, but don't appear to derive from any animal you recognize. They stand about eight feet tall, walking upright without awkwardness. Each wears a crude skin loincloth and has a small, apparently vestigial tail. The patterns in their fur are unique to each, but you suspect you can see some genetic inheritance among two or three of them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear headset", "response": "You're already wearing that!\n\nYou hear the cats speaking to each other in a series of growls, trills, and vocalizations that is occasionally overridden by your mother's voice in the headset, whispering in your ear words like \"food\", \"stranger\", and \"child.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the headset", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump west", "response": "Once again, you get a running start and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYou've reached the arc of your parabola, and have begun to descend. An ocean sloshes below you, dotted by just one tiny island. As you fly through the air, you tuck your non-waterproof possessions into the suit pouch. Soon, you hit the water with a massive SPLOOSH!\n\nAs you sink, the suit begins supplying oxygen to you.\n\nYou're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nA large circular door, apparently a hatch, is set in the ground here.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate next to a towering silver cylinder about ten yards away from the hatch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bubble", "response": "The bubble is made of a substance you don't recognize, and reflects your face back at you, distorted into shapes that would startle Chester Gould.\n\nYou sense a presence behind you. Whirling, you find yourself face-to-eye with an enormous squid, at least fifty feet long. The squid is regarding you, not with aggression, but with curiosity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the squid", "response": "This squid is one of the most astonishing living creatures you've ever seen. Its dark, mesmerizing eye is as big as a hubcap. Eight long tentacles and two even longer feeding arms trail from its maroon, torpedo-shaped body, and at the center of that body is a formidable-looking beak. The squid is keeping a safe distance from you, examining you and your possessions with keen interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "\"Uh, hi there.\" you begin gamely. \"I'm Austin Colborn.\"\n\nThe squid just looks at you, its tentacles swaying slowly.\n\n\"You, uh, come here often?\" you say.\n\nThe squid continues to look at you.\n\n\"Hey wait,\" you say, \"I'm encased in a suit. I'll bet you can't even hear me. Tell you what, if you can't hear me, or can't understand me, just stare at me and do absolutely nothing.\"\n\nThe giant squid just stares at you. It does absolutely nothing.\n\nThe squid taps you, then points one tentacle at the beige touchplate while waving the others in an urgent but uninterpretable pattern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch beige", "response": "You lay your hand on the touchplate, and it lights up briefly. The silvery column begins sliding downward, retreating back into the ground. Soon, the ocean floor is flat once again, looking as undisturbed as if nothing had ever happened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch beige", "response": "When you lay a finger on the touchplate, nothing happens, but when you press it with your whole hand, it lights up briefly, and once again, nothing happens. At least, nothing happens at first, but in a moment, you hear a rumbling, and suddenly the bit of ocean floor you're standing on begins to rise! Soon, you find yourself shooting upward on a small plot of land, spearing through tons of water that would surely crush you if not for the earthsuit.\n\nYou break the surface with a terrific SPLOOSH! And then it's over. You find yourself standing on a small island as water sluices off its surface and back into the ocean. By all rights, you should have a serious case of the bends after such a rapid ascent from deep underwater, but you feel fine -- the earthsuit must somehow have fooled your body into thinking it was still at one atmosphere of pressure, thus preventing nitrogen absorption. The plastic sheath over your nose and mouth retreats back into the cowl.\n\nIn the funnies, all deserted islands are barely large enough to fit two people, and always have a palm tree in the middle. This island is just like that, except without the palm tree. Orienting yourself by the distant smudges, you decide that the Forest is west, the Veldt area is east, and the Rainforest is south.\n\nNow that you're dry again, you unzip the suit pouch and retrieve your delicate items.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dive", "response": "Before diving in, you tuck your non-waterproof possessions into the suit pouch. Then you dive into the water, and sink like a cinderblock until you reach the bottom.\n\nYou're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nAn incredible giant squid floats alongside you, just out of reach.\n\nA large circular door, apparently a hatch, is set in the ground here.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate next to a towering silver cylinder about ten yards away from the hatch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the squid", "response": "You see the ocean floor, dimly illuminated by bioluminescent plants. A giant squid floats calmly near the bubble, exploring its environment with tentacles and enormous eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the cat", "response": "You lay your hand on the cat touchplate, and the bubble begins spinning smoothly. You have the sensation of swift, effortless movement. With surprising suddenness, the energy transport deposits you elsewhere, then dissolves around you.\n\nYou're in a dome, probably about ten feet high at its zenith and twenty feet in diameter at its base. The wall is transparent, and on the other side of it is a wide grassland, creased with gentle hills and the occasional baobab tree. There are several platforms inside the dome, reaching to your hip and covered with a soft bedding on top, and to one side of these is a pedestal with a crimson touchplate. You can see no exits.\n\nA white cylinder sits atop one of the platforms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the white cylinder", "response": "This cylinder is about the size and shape of a paint can. Its entire surface is white except for a small black button on one of its flat faces.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "The device is surprisingly heavy, as if its core is quite dense. Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the black button", "response": "The black button bears the icon of an oval with some indecipherable scribbles inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the touchplate", "response": "This crimson touchplate sports the icon of a circle from which six spokes radiate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch it", "response": "You lay your hand on the touchplate, and a field of crimson energy materializes next to the pedestal, surrounding you in a glowing shell. The floor beneath you opens, and the energy field carries you downwards, hurtling through darkness until you reach the...\n\nYou hang suspended within a translucent crimson bubble of energy, with nothing but inky darkness beyond. Also suspended by the energy field are six touchplates, each bearing an icon. The icons are: a snowflake, ocean waves, a cactus, a broad leaf, an evergreen tree, and one you don't recognize, which looks a bit like an abstract rendition of a cat's face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the evergreen", "response": "You lay your hand on the tree touchplate, and the bubble begins spinning smoothly. You have the sensation of swift, effortless movement. With surprising suddenness, the energy transport deposits you elsewhere, then dissolves around you.\n\nYou're in a dome, probably about ten feet high at its zenith and twenty feet in diameter at its base. The wall is transparent, and through it you can see that you're about twenty yards above the treetops of a magnificent forest. There are several platforms on the ground, reaching to your hip and covered with a soft bedding on top, and to one side of these is a pedestal with a crimson touchplate. You can see no exits.\n\nIn the center of the dome, an odd device rests atop an eight-foot pole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine device", "response": "You're not sure exactly what this device is, but given that it has a large lens on one end and a face-shaped indentation on the other, you're inclined to believe it's somehow intended for long-distance viewing -- a \"viewscope\", you decide provisionally. Sadly, it's at the top of an eight-foot pole in the center of the dome, and the indentation doesn't appear to be shaped to accommodate a human face, so it's not exactly tourist-friendly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lens", "response": "This is a large, convex lens meant for focusing light to view distant objects. It is currently screwed onto the viewscope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the viewscope", "response": "It's too far above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the pole", "response": "It would probably be easier just to climb up on one of the platforms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb platform", "response": "You climb onto the platform nearest the viewscope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unscrew the lens", "response": "It takes a fair amount of strength, but you unscrew the lens from the viewscope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lens", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You get off the platform.\n\nYou're in a dome, probably about ten feet high at its zenith and twenty feet in diameter at its base. The wall is transparent, and through it you can see that you're about twenty yards above the treetops of a magnificent forest. There are several platforms on the ground, reaching to your hip and covered with a soft bedding on top, and to one side of these is a pedestal with a crimson touchplate. You can see no exits.\n\nYou can see a viewscope here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the lens", "response": "Try looking through the eyepiece instead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the eyepiece", "response": "It's hard to get a steady view, and it's a bit blurry looking through only one eyepiece, but you can see creatures in the treetops. They're humanoid, in fact almost human-like -- mostly standing upright but crouching occasionally, large front teeth tearing into their food, interacting with each other in what appear to be fairly social ways. In fact, if you didn't know that you were in the present, staring at a world that isn't Earth, you'd have identified them as Australopithecus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unscrew the lens", "response": "It takes a fair amount of strength, but you unscrew the lens from the viewscope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the leaf", "response": "You lay your hand on the leaf touchplate, and the bubble begins spinning smoothly. You have the sensation of swift, effortless movement. With surprising suddenness, the energy transport deposits you elsewhere, then dissolves around you.\n\nYou're in a dome, probably about ten feet high at its zenith and twenty feet in diameter at its base. The wall is transparent, and through it you can see a verdant jungle, its colors only a little bit muted by the interposing dome. There are several platforms inside the dome, reaching to your hip and covered with a soft bedding on top, and to one side of these is a pedestal with two touchplates. You can see no exits.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pedestal", "response": "This is just a small, cylindrical pedestal, about four feet high. Atop its angled surface are two touchplates, one crimson and one indigo. The indigo one has a very thin sponge attached to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sponge", "response": "Depending on how you look at it, this is either a very thin sponge, or a fairly thick piece of spongy paper -- it certainly wouldn't be useful for absorbing much of anything, except perhaps odor. In any case, it's white and adorned with patterned ink scrawls. You surmise that these scrawls may be some sort of writing, but you haven't a clue how to decipher them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the indigo", "response": "The icon on this indigo touchplate is an upward-pointing triangle, identical to the one you saw in the Arctic area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nAn incredible giant squid floats alongside you, just out of reach.\n\nA large, open hatch leads downward.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate next to a towering silver cylinder about ten yards away from the hatch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ascend", "response": "You spring upwards, shooting through the water like a torpedo, but it's no good. By the time you reach the surface, the water resistance has drained your jump of its inertia, leaving you to sink back down to the ocean floor.\n\nYou're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nAn incredible giant squid floats alongside you, just out of reach.\n\nA large, open hatch leads downward.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate next to a towering silver cylinder about ten yards away from the hatch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump west", "response": "You can't get much of a running start in such a tiny area, but you crouch and launch yourself upwards, and that seems to provide sufficient momentum.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nOnce again, you hurtle through the canopy of leaves and land more or less at your previous arrival point.\n\nThe air is cool and quiet down here, far beneath the treetop canopy. On every side of you, massive trunks rise majestically. These trees are enormous, like old-growth redwoods but growing higher than Earth gravity would ever permit. The trees completely block the horizon, and you can only keep yourself oriented by remembering the direction you were facing when you jumped up and saw the Arctic area.\n\nBeside you is the base of a tower that's even taller than the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump west", "response": "There isn't a great deal of room to run, but you do your best, and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nOnce again, you land in the sandy, sweltering desert.\n\nThe first thing you notice is the heat. It is punishing, astonishing, like standing inside an inferno that burns without flames. Your suit insulates you somewhat, and a lucky thing, too, because otherwise you wouldn't last long under a sun that feels like it's just a few feet away. Orienting yourself based on the direction you came from, you can see enormous sand dunes rising north and south of you, creating no shade but blocking your vision. Through the heat haze, you can barely perceive the Forest to the east, and the Veldt to the west.\n\nA large, Y-shaped cactus stands nearby.\n\nYou can also see an enormous bowl (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the lens in the cactus", "response": "You wedge the lens between the arms of the cactus, and it fits perfectly, catching the sunlight and creating an intense, concentrated beam aimed directly at the bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bowl", "response": "The bowl is too big and awkward to carry while you're holding anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "very thin sponge: Dropped.\nwhite cylinder: Dropped.\ncanister: Dropped.\ncabin key: Dropped.\nlegal pad: Dropped.\nnotepad: Dropped.\nloose papers: Dropped.\nheadset: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump east", "response": "Once again, you get a running start and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nOnce again, you hurtle through the canopy of leaves and land more or less at your previous arrival point.CRRASH! The bowl upends when it hits the trees, and you just manage to grab its lip and drag it down with you so it doesn't get stuck in the treetops.\n\nThe air is cool and quiet down here, far beneath the treetop canopy. On every side of you, massive trunks rise majestically. These trees are enormous, like old-growth redwoods but growing higher than Earth gravity would ever permit. The trees completely block the horizon, and you can only keep yourself oriented by remembering the direction you were facing when you jumped up and saw the Arctic area.\n\nBeside you is the base of a tower that's even taller than the trees.\n\nYou can also see an enormous bowl (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump east", "response": "There isn't a great deal of room to run, but you do your best, and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYou've reached the arc of your parabola, and have begun to descend. An ocean sloshes below you, dotted by just one tiny island. You hit the water with a massive SPLOOSH!\n\nAs you sink, the suit begins supplying oxygen to you.\n\nYou're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nAn incredible giant squid floats alongside you, just out of reach.\n\nA large, open hatch leads downward.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate next to a towering silver cylinder about ten yards away from the hatch.\n\nA sizable fish floats by, and the squid conceals itself behind an outcropping. Then, with startling speed, one of its feeding arms darts out and ensnares its prey. The squid takes the fish into its tentacles, tearing and crunching with its sharp beak, and then returns its attention to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan earthsuit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump west", "response": "You can't get much of a running start in such a tiny area, but you crouch and launch yourself upwards, and that seems to provide sufficient momentum.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nOnce again, you hurtle through the canopy of leaves and land more or less at your previous arrival point.\n\nThe air is cool and quiet down here, far beneath the treetop canopy. On every side of you, massive trunks rise majestically. These trees are enormous, like old-growth redwoods but growing higher than Earth gravity would ever permit. The trees completely block the horizon, and you can only keep yourself oriented by remembering the direction you were facing when you jumped up and saw the Arctic area.\n\nBeside you is the base of a tower that's even taller than the trees.\n\nYou can also see an enormous bowl (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump east", "response": "There isn't a great deal of room to run, but you do your best, and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYou've reached the arc of your parabola, and have begun to descend. An ocean sloshes below you, dotted by just one tiny island. You hit the water with a massive SPLOOSH! You can't manage to hang onto the bowl, and leave it floating at the surface while you sink downward.\n\nAs you sink, the suit begins supplying oxygen to you.\n\nYou're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nAn incredible giant squid floats alongside you, just out of reach.\n\nA large, open hatch leads downward.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate next to a towering silver cylinder about ten yards away from the hatch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bowl", "response": "You heft the bowl over your head (which is significantly harder now that it's full of water.) Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump east", "response": "You can't get much of a running start in such a tiny area, but you crouch and launch yourself upwards, and that seems to provide sufficient momentum.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYou land in the tall grasses once again. A few hundred gallons of water slosh from the bowl before you can steady it, but your landing in the grass is soft enough that you don't lose too much.\n\nTall grasses of faded gold reach past your knees, swaying; here and there, baobab trees pose elegantly against a brilliant blue sky. Soft hills ripple through this prairie, and the hot, thick air buzzes with the sounds of distant insects. You can see blue-whiteness in one direction -- the Arctic area -- so that's north, and the Rainforest area is south. Far on the eastern horizon is the tan haze of the Desert area, and the blue-green Ocean shimmers in the distant west.\n\nBeside you is a dome, its mirrored surface reflecting the sun.\n\nThe cat-people startle as one for no apparent reason, and retreat a little further from you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan enormous bowl\na massive quantity of salt water\nan earthsuit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump east", "response": "Once again, you get a running start and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nOnce again, you land in the sandy, sweltering desert. A few hundred gallons of water slosh from the bowl before you can steady it, but your landing in the sand is soft enough that you don't lose too much.\n\nThe first thing you notice is the heat. It is punishing, astonishing, like standing inside an inferno that burns without flames. Your suit insulates you somewhat, and a lucky thing, too, because otherwise you wouldn't last long under a sun that feels like it's just a few feet away. Orienting yourself based on the direction you came from, you can see enormous sand dunes rising north and south of you, creating no shade but blocking your vision. Through the heat haze, you can barely perceive the Forest to the east, and the Veldt to the west.\n\nA large, Y-shaped cactus stands nearby, with a lens between its arms, creating a beam of concentrated sunlight aimed at the ground.\n\nYou can also see a headset, some loose papers, a notepad, a legal pad, a cabin key, a canister (which is empty), a white cylinder and a very thin sponge here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bowl in the beam", "response": "Just dropping the bowl here will put it in the path of the beam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the bowl", "response": "You set the bowl down near the cactus, intercepting the beam. Within minutes, you can see bubbles forming on the sides of the bowl.\n\nWith the beam hitting the water like this, it's sure to boil sometime soon. On the other hand, as overheated as you feel right now, you're not at all certain you can handle standing around waiting for it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all but the bowl and the cactus", "response": "headset: Taken.\nloose papers: Taken.\nnotepad: Taken.\nlegal pad: Taken.\ncabin key: Taken.\ncanister: Taken.\nwhite cylinder: The device is surprisingly heavy, as if its core is quite dense. Taken.\nvery thin sponge: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump west", "response": "Once again, you get a running start and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYou land in the tall grasses once again.\n\nTall grasses of faded gold reach past your knees, swaying; here and there, baobab trees pose elegantly against a brilliant blue sky. Soft hills ripple through this prairie, and the hot, thick air buzzes with the sounds of distant insects. You can see blue-whiteness in one direction -- the Arctic area -- so that's north, and the Rainforest area is south. Far on the eastern horizon is the tan haze of the Desert area, and the blue-green Ocean shimmers in the distant west.\n\nBeside you is a dome, its mirrored surface reflecting the sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear headset", "response": "You put on the headset.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sponge to the cats", "response": "The cat people are unimpressed.\n\nYou notice that one of the cats is obviously female, and carries a child. (Or kitten, perhaps.) She licks the child clean with obvious affection, and coos to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the button to the cats", "response": "(first taking the black button)\nThat seems to be a part of the white cylinder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the cylinder to the cats", "response": "The cat people are unimpressed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You jump east", "response": "Once again, you get a running start and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nOnce again, you land in the sandy, sweltering desert.\n\nThe first thing you notice is the heat. It is punishing, astonishing, like standing inside an inferno that burns without flames. Your suit insulates you somewhat, and a lucky thing, too, because otherwise you wouldn't last long under a sun that feels like it's just a few feet away. Orienting yourself based on the direction you came from, you can see enormous sand dunes rising north and south of you, creating no shade but blocking your vision. Through the heat haze, you can barely perceive the Forest to the east, and the Veldt to the west.\n\nA large, Y-shaped cactus stands nearby, with a lens between its arms, creating a beam of concentrated sunlight aimed at the bowl.\n\nYou can also see an enormous bowl (in which is a pile of sea salt) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear headset", "response": "You're already wearing that!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open canister", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the salt in canister", "response": "You scoop up the sea salt with the canister.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump south", "response": "Once again, you get a running start and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nThis time, you're a little more ready for the rainclouds and vegetation, but that doesn't stop your fall from being a careening, wet one.\n\nYou stand amidst a symphony of green. Deep jade moss covers the trunks of trees, whose leaves far above filter mottled avocado light over emerald bushes and green grass -- adjectives run out long before the shades of green do. The air is warm, muggy, and filled with the sounds of wildlife.\n\nBeside you is the bottom of a long steel tube that rises into the sky and past the clouds.\n\nOne small square at your feet appears free of moss, or at least it might, if you could see past the swarming mass of slugs that infest it.\n\nIn a rare patch of foliage-free ground near you, the mirrored surface of a dome reflects the surrounding greenery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na very thin sponge\na white cylinder\na canister (which is closed)\na cabin key\na legal pad\na notepad\nsome loose papers\na headset (being worn)\nan earthsuit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open canister", "response": "You open the canister, revealing a pile of sea salt.\n\nYou hear a crashing, thumping sound from above, and jump out of the way. No one falls, though, and in a moment it becomes clear that one of the parrots was imitating the sound of your galumphing descent through the rainforest vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the salt on slugs", "response": "You pour the salt onto the slugs, and they shrivel in droves. More rush in to replace them, but you keep pouring, and they keep desiccating. In the end, it takes all the salt you have, but you get rid of all the slugs, and no others arrive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the touchplate", "response": "The touchplate is indigo and emblazoned with an upwards-pointing triangle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch it", "response": "The pad lights up briefly, and the tube's once-seamless face splits; a ten-foot tall section slides open, revealing a clean, lighted interior.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump south", "response": "There isn't a great deal of room to run, but you do your best, and launch yourself upwards.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nYou've reached the arc of your parabola, and have begun to descend. An ocean sloshes below you, dotted by just one tiny island. As you fly through the air, you tuck your non-waterproof possessions into the suit pouch. Soon, you hit the water with a massive SPLOOSH!\n\nAs you sink, the suit begins supplying oxygen to you.\n\nYou're standing on silty ground, deep underwater. The light is dim, but you can still see well enough, thanks to bioluminescence from plants that make their home here. Judging from the time you spent sinking, your rough estimate is that you're about two thousand feet below the surface. Happily, the suit seems equipped to handle such extreme pressures, and although you feel like you're moving in slow motion, you're experiencing no discomfort.\n\nAn incredible giant squid floats alongside you, just out of reach.\n\nA large, open hatch leads downward.\n\nJust alongside the hatch is a large, mirrored half-bubble, like a glassy eye in the sand.\n\nYou also notice a beige touchplate next to a towering silver cylinder about ten yards away from the hatch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sponge to the squid", "response": "The squid takes the very thin sponge and examines it with great interest, passing it from tentacle to tentacle and even biting down tentatively with its beak. Finally, its curiosity satisfied, it gently deposits the very thin sponge back at your feet.\n\nApparently startled, the squid jets away, only to return in a few seconds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sponge", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sponge on the beige", "response": "Putting things on the beige touchplate would achieve nothing.\n\nThe squid taps you, then points one tentacle at the beige touchplate while waving the others in an urgent but uninterpretable pattern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na very thin sponge\na white cylinder\na canister (which is open but empty)\na cabin key\na legal pad (stashed inside your costume)\na notepad (stashed inside your costume)\nsome loose papers (stashed inside your costume)\na headset (stashed inside your costume)\nan earthsuit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump south", "response": "You can't get much of a running start in such a tiny area, but you crouch and launch yourself upwards, and that seems to provide sufficient momentum.\n\nThe familiar flash-nausea passes as you cross the barrier.\n\nThis time, you're a little more ready for the rainclouds and vegetation, but that doesn't stop your fall from being a careening, wet one.\n\nYou stand amidst a symphony of green. Deep jade moss covers the trunks of trees, whose leaves far above filter mottled avocado light over emerald bushes and green grass -- adjectives run out long before the shades of green do. The air is warm, muggy, and filled with the sounds of wildlife.\n\nBeside you is the bottom of a long steel tube that rises into the sky and past the clouds.\n\nThe newly slug-free access panel winks up at you from the ground.\n\nIn a rare patch of foliage-free ground near you, the mirrored surface of a dome reflects the surrounding greenery.\n\nThe parrots jabber some more, and you could swear you just heard one of them snicker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tube", "response": "This tube is an exact duplicate of the one from the Arctic area, with one salient difference: it hasn't been wrecked by a massive impact. It looks easily wide enough to fit yourself into -- if you can figure out how to enter it, that is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the tube", "response": "You feel nothing unexpected. Of course, you're wearing gloves, but you probably wouldn't feel anything unexpected anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the tube", "response": "You step into the tube and it closes around you. A second later, your stomach lurches and your feet leave the ground -- this isn't an elevator whose floor lifts you to your destination, it's some sort of levitation device. What's more, although it's opaque from the outside, from in here the tube is perfectly transparent, so you see yourself punching through the clouds of the rainforest and hurtling upward at an alarming rate. Just as it's crossing your mind to be grateful that Emily got the flying power instead of you, the barrier of the sky passes, and the tube expels you into new surroundings.\n\nEpisode 2:\nANOTHER EARTH, ANOTHER SKY\n\n\"Perhaps I asked too large --\nI take -- no less than skies --\nFor Earths, grow thick as\nBerries, in my native town --\n\nThe walls of this corridor reflect your image back at you, mazed with the outlines of machinery built into their surfaces. After the tube ride, your sense of direction is confounded once again, so you posit that the tube entrance is west, the corridor continues east, and the large door is to your south. There is also a pink touchplate next to the door.\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pink", "response": "The icon on this touchplate exactly matches the shape of the door beside it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine door", "response": "This isn't a traditional door, with knob and hinges and such, but its outline in the wall makes its function plain. It is currently closed, and pink light seeps around its edges.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This cell is exactly identical to the one that imprisoned you, with three critical differences. First, there's no pink energy field -- the walls are simply bare. Second, there's an open doorway in the north wall. And finally, there's no giant, gaping hole in the floor.\n\nYour sister is here, sitting in a corner and looking dejectedly at the floor.\n\nEmily scrambles to her feet. \"Austin!\" she shouts. \"Woo hoo! Boy, am I glad to see you!\" She rushes over and hugs you.\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Likewise! So have you been in here ever since stepping through the curtain?\"\n2) \"Well, considering you'd probably be trapped in there forever if not for me, I'm not surprised at the warm reception.\"\n3) \"Thanks. You have no idea what I had to go through to get here.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 1\n\n\"Pretty much,\" she replies. \"What happened to you?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Well, actually, it was quite interesting. I was in a cell just like this one...\"\n2) \"Oh, you know... stuff.\"\n3) \"I'll tell you the whole story, but not right now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 3\n\n\"Now there's a plan I can support. Let's get to work.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThe walls of this corridor reflect your image back at you, mazed with the outlines of machinery built into their surfaces. After the tube ride, your sense of direction is confounded once again, so you posit that the tube entrance is west, the corridor continues east, and the large door is to your south. There is also a pink touchplate next to the door.\n\nEmily stands a few feet away from you, looking bored.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Emily about the cylinder", "response": "\"Um... right! Good point! Okay, I actually have no idea what you mean.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the headset to Emily", "response": "Emily takes the headset from you. \"Looks like one of Mom and Dad's gadgets to me. Not that I have a clue what purpose it might serve. Still, might be good to have along.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the headset", "response": "That seems to belong to Emily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the headset to you", "response": "\"Sure,\" she says, handing you the headset.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Emily about the headset", "response": "\"Looks like one of Mom and Dad's gadgets to me. Not that I have a clue what purpose it might serve. Still, might be good to have along.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Emily about the cats", "response": "\"Interesting. I wonder why that touchplate had the creature rather than the landscape inscribed on it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Emily about the squid", "response": "\"Yow. I'm glad it was you and not me -- that would have freaked me out a bit.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Emily about the penguins", "response": "\"Aww, that sounds cute! Then again, the whole 'oversized head' thing cuts down on the cuteness factor quite a bit.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Emily about parrots", "response": "\"That sounds irritating. I probably woulda blasted 'em.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Emily about the slugs", "response": "\"Ew. Next topic, please.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThis section of corridor shows the signs of a recent battle. Scorch marks mar the gleaming machinery, and the grey carpet is distressed by bloodstains and rips. The hallway continues east to an intersection and west to the tube entrance.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the marks", "response": "The machinery inset into the metal walls appears still functional, but somewhat the worse for wear, assailed by dents and scorch marks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "As you enter the intersection, a shrill alarm begins to peal throughout the halls, bright lights flash, and polymer walls slam down on either side of you, leaving only small niches to the north and south. Matters deteriorate quickly from bad to worse as a portal opens in the corridor east of here, releasing a stream of broad, tall security robots that cut off the corridor completely. The robots see you, and are advancing menacingly towards you!\n\nEmily follows you.\n\nThis intersection appears to have borne the brunt of the earlier fighting, with its walls dented, its carpet decimated, and even its ceiling showing a mark or two. Moments ago, passageways led north and south here, but they have just been closed off by impenetrable polymer walls, leaving just a small niche on either side of the corridor, which continues east and west.\n\nEmily hovers a few feet above the ground here.\n\nA piercing alarm shrieks through the hallways, accompanied by bright, flashing lights.\n\nSecurity robots are advancing on you from the east in an imposing column.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Zap robots", "response": "\"It would be my pleasure,\" says your sister, and blue lightning arcs from her fingers with a shattering KER-POW, frying the circuits of the robotic regiment and scattering them like bowling pins. As more robots emerge from the portal, you jump in to do your part, sending sentinels flying with the SKRANG of your fists and feet colliding with their more frangible bodies. Finally, the two of you have cut a wide swath through the mechanical guardians, and find yourself east of the intersection, fried and smashed robots littering the ground at your feet.\n\nThe hallway dead-ends here at the portal that released the robots. It has since closed, and its robots litter the ground, soundly defeated by you and your sister. A doorway leads north, and the intersection is west.\n\nA piercing alarm shrieks through the hallways, accompanied by bright, flashing lights.\n\nEmily stands a few feet away from you, looking smug.\n\n\"Woo hoo! Yeah!\" shouts Emily, and pumps her fist several times for good measure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThis room appears to serve several purposes, at least one of which is to be an observation center for the various environments below. You draw this conclusion from the six large panels arranged along the north wall, four of which display rotating views of the Ocean, Veldt, Forest, and Rainforest environments, while the other two are blank. On the western wall, a transporter curtain shimmers through its endless pattern changes, and to the east, a lavish arrangement of cushions suggests sleeping quarters of some sort. Control panels of various sorts dot the walls, and the only exit is to the south.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something decisive.\n\nYou can also see a giant, catlike alien here.\n\nAs you enter, the huge, humanoid cat-creature stabs a button, and the alarm falls into sudden, tense silence. The creature glowers at you, oval-slitted eyes burning with a combination of fury, frustration, and fear. Its toothy mouth gapes, and a stream of angry, hissing syllables flows forth: \"mr mrrowuoiiaow ssao aow urr mrr iaow<throat-clearing sound>eowff uaoweeoom<hiss> mrrm rr rrrrmrreou aowmrr rrmrao fffteeaouw !\"\n\nSeeing the look of incomprehension on your face, it stalks over to the other side of the room and twists a dial. When it speaks again, a hidden speaker broadcasts an English translation over its words.\n\n\"You stupid, clumsy, vomit-brained, simian cub!\" it resumes, \"You did this, didn't you?\" It gestures angrily at one of the blank screens. \"You wrecked my Arctic equipment, and tramped your filthy body through every other environment! You've destroyed my work!\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Uh, well... You don't... I mean... That is...\"\n2) \"Hey, back off Sylvester! All I did was escape from a prison cell! What was I supposed to do, just sit there and rot away?\"\n3) \"Um... I'm sorry.\"\n4) \"What? I don't know what you're talking about!.\"\n5) \"Hello. My name is Austin Colborn. You killed my father. Well, maybe not, but do you know where he is?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 2\n\nThe creature seems to deflate under the sting of your tirade. It slumps against the wall and begins preening its fur nervously. \"Oh, stink. You're right, apeling. Owrr was right to insist that the transport channels be shunted to security cells. I ignored you from impatience and must take the blame of destruction.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Well, I'm sorry all the same. I had no idea what would happen when I broke through the floor of that cell. What is this place, anyway?\" 2) \"You see how I had no choice. Still, those environments are fascinating -- are you trying to evolve intelligent species?\"\n3) \"Who is Owrr? What are you? What is this place? What in the world is going on?\"\n4) \"Fine. Have you seen any other 'simians' around here lately?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 2\n\nThe creature tilts its head, giving you an odd look. \"Not exactly, cub. Not for its own sake. I study the origin of my species, called iueeoorr. We have a gap in our fossil record, between feline ancestors and proto-iueeoorr.\"\n\n\"We have the same problem in ours,\" you say. \"We call it the missing link.\"\n\n\"I know, cub. Quiet, now. I found ancient bacteria in salt deposits, and extracted it. Those beasts you saw were ordinary before infection. There is no missing link -- infection moves a species to sentience. Such is my theory, and this environment is to test it, but my rival Esrrua has sabotaged it with his spy-creature. That creature killed my... my pridemate, Owrr, escaped to your planet, and now endless strings of apes tramp through here to chase it.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Wait, are you telling me that some alien creature is on my world, and that my parents and their friend are chasing it?\"\n2) \"I'm sorry for your loss. This spy-creature... it's on my planet? Is it dangerous?\"\n3) \"That's all I needed to know, and since you're obviously so eager to be rid of me, I'm going to go find my parents.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 1\n\n\"Yes,\" says the cat-creature, still preening its fur. \"Probably Esrrua as well.\"\n\n\"Could they be dangerous to the people on my world?\"\n\n\"Very likely. That's why those others pursued it. Myself, I have more important priorities, like repairing the damage you caused.\"\n\n\"Yeah, you work on those priorities,\" snarls Emily, \"and we'll work on ours. Okay, Austin, this curtain takes us one step closer to Mom and Dad. Let's head back home, shall we?\" Without waiting for an answer, she grabs your hand and pulls you into the curtain with her. The familiar, sleepy feeling of teleportation engulfs you immediately.\n\nEpisode 2:\nANOTHER EARTH, ANOTHER SKY\n\nComing in 2003 to an IF Archive near you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the space", "response": "[Please press a key to continue]\n\n1) Al. thru port.\n2)T gone\n3)T cont. by Al. (4 help?)\n4)Al. prob. OK, but ???\n5)N's mic. maybe invol.?\n\nMust purs. -- Claire agr.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "basic difficulty", "devil", "entertainment", "haunted house", "IF Competition 1995", "IFComp Game", "IFComp Winner", "Included on Activison Masterpieces CD", "short length", "TADS", "TADS 2", "TADS2 source available", "wacky uncle", "walkthrough" ]

[ 3, 30, 21, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "' at every line of Floyd's output? That is very annoying as a speech synthesizer user.\" GlkTADS - A text-only TADS 2.5.3 Interpreter.\n\nMaintained by Stephen Granade <sgranade@phy.duke.edu>\n\nUncle Zebulon's Will by Magnus Olsson (mol@df.lth.se)\n\nThe news of your uncle Zebulon's death came as a shock. You've been\nout of touch lately, and since you left for college a year ago you\nhaven't heard a word from him. During your childhood, however, your\neccentric uncle - once the black sheep of the family, an unsuccessful\nalchemist and self-proclaimed wizard, reputed to be a very wealthy man\n- was your favourite relative. Perhaps you were his favourite nephew\nas well. You miss his stories of distant realms and the magic gadgets\nhe loved to demonstrate...\n\nYou leave for home immediately on receiving the message, but the\ntrip is long and you're delayed by the inevitable train strikes. When\nyou finally arrive, you find your family in a state of frustrated\nconfusion. Not only is your uncle's will written in a quite unsuitably\nsarcastic tone, seriously insulting most of your relatives, but it\nturns out there isn't much of an inheritance to fight over; despite a\nthorough search of your uncle's house, no fabulous treasures are found.\nThe bequests for you and your cousins are almost pathetic: one small\nmemento each, to be selected after everybody else have made their\nchoices. Yet what is there to lose? At least you'd like to have one\nlast look at uncle Zeb's house; maybe you'll find some treasure\noverlooked by the others, perhaps something magical...\n\nFirst Annual IF Competition, 1995\n\nYou are standing just inside the gate of uncle Zebulon's garden, on\nthe weed-infested gravel path that leads east up to the porch of the\nhouse. On the north side of the lawn, almost hidden behind the huge,\nunkempt rosebushes, is the garden shed. The bright summer sun glistens\non the wet grass, and the air, fresh from the recent rain, is alive\nwith the buzzing of insects and filled with sweet fragrances.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are standing just inside the gate of uncle Zebulon's garden, on\nthe weed-infested gravel path that leads east up to the porch of the\nhouse. On the north side of the lawn, almost hidden behind the huge,\nunkempt rosebushes, is the garden shed. The bright summer sun glistens\non the wet grass, and the air, fresh from the recent rain, is alive\nwith the buzzing of insects and filled with sweet fragrances.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rosebushes", "response": "Uncle Zebulon wasn't very much of a gardener, so the garden isn't\nexactly a showpiece: the lawn is shaggy, the flower beds full of\nweeds, the rose bushes would need some trimming. Still, it's a\npleasant place on a summer morning like this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are empty-handed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "Are you sure you're playing the right game?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look about the same as always.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shed", "response": "There's nothing unusual about Uncle Zebulon's garden shed: it's a\nwindowless, ramshackle building that could do with a new coat of paint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The shed door opens only reluctantly, with a creaking sound from the\nrusty hinges.\n\nThis shed was used by uncle Zebulon for his goldmaking: strange\nexperiments that could often be smelt from across town, even occasional\nexplosions. Your uncle spoke very little of his experiments, and never\nshowed any signs of making money out of them, yet people generally\nassumed that they were successful and a source of great wealth. In all\nother matters, your family regarded uncle Zebulon as a useless dreamer,\neven an embarrassment, but they took a certain reluctant pride in his\nreputation as a goldmaker.\n\nAs a consequence of your relatives' frantic search for valuables,\nthe place is in an even greater mess than you remember. The workbench\nhas been cleared of the usual odds and ends, and all even remotely\nuseful tools or utensils have been removed. Large heaps of junk and\nbroken glass remain in the corners, and in the centre of the room is a\nlarge, hideous statue of a three-eyed dog - probably some exotic idol\nbrought home from your uncle's travels. You can't remember ever seeing\nit before.\n\nOn the workbench you see a scrap of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paper", "response": "It seems to be a torn-out page from a notebook, with a few lines of\nwriting on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dog", "response": "The statue is made of some dark, hard wood that must once have been\nnicely polished but is now rather scratched and dented. It depicts a\nhuge, hideous dog - even though it's sitting on its haunches, it's\nstill taller than you are - that seems to be staring in a slightly\nmelancholy way at the workbench, as if lamenting the mess. It looks\nvery much out of place in this shed.\nApart from its general ugliness, one thing about the dog immediately\ncatches your attention: for some unfathomable reason, it has three\neyes - two in the normal places, and one in the centre of its forehead.\nThere is also something very strange about its ears.\n\nThe centre eye socket contains a blue glass lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lens", "response": "However much you try, you can't pry it loose from the statue's eye\nsocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ears", "response": "You can only look at one thing at a time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ear", "response": "Which ear do you mean, the dog's left ear, or the dog's right ear?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Left ear", "response": "The dog's ears look as if they don't really belong to the statue, but\nwere added as an afterthought - and in a rather curious way as well.\nIn fact, it seems as if both ears are fastened so that they can turn\naround their own axes. Curious indeed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the scrap", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "\"I'm a great step closer to the goal: I have discovered an acid\nthat actually transmutes noble metals into base ones. If only the\nprocess could be reversed!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the left ear", "response": "As you turn the ear there is a distinct click. A loud humming noise\ncomes from inside the statue, and a beam of blue light shoots out from\nits centre eye, illuminating a circle in the centre of the workbench.\nAfter a while, however, the light flickers and goes out, and the\nhumming sound stops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the right ear", "response": "Nothing happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine workbench", "response": "The marble surface of the workbench is pitted by acids, discoloured by\nstrange chemicals and still sooty in places from the explosions that\nall too often ended uncle Zeb's experiments. In the exact centre of\nthe workbench, a small bronze stand has been fastened to the surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the scrap on the bench", "response": "Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the junk", "response": "You search through the junk for a while, but find nothing interesting,\njust lots of broken glassware, old newspapers, fragments of burned\nwood, large clumps of slag, you name it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "On this rickety porch, uncle Zebulon used to spend the long summer\nevenings, relaxing in his rocking chair and smoking his pipe. Your\nparents used to sneer at his laziness; why couldn't he use all that\nspare time to make his garden look a little more respectable?\nThe rocking chair is still there, right outside the front door of\nthe house. It is not occupied by uncle Zebulon, though, but by a\nsneering, rather mean-looking demon.\nThe demon is picking his claws with a rather nasty-looking dagger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the demon", "response": "If you remember your Basic Demonology classes correctly, he must be a\nmember of one of the lower castes of familiar demons, usually employed\nas servants by wizards. As demons go, this one isn't very big or\ndangerous-looking. Indeed, he looks positively benign (for a demon,\nthat is: he still looks pretty mean by human standards). Of course,\nall this still doesn't mean that he's to be messed with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hi", "response": "The demon quite pointedly ignores you, apparently preferring to study\nsome interesting spots on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the demon", "response": "\"Oh, don't mind me. Just pretend I'm the milkman or something.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the demon about yourself", "response": "The demon looks at you a bit quizzically and starts to say something,\nbut changes his mind and just shrugs instead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the demon about the gold", "response": "The demon starts humming a merry little demon song, pretending not to\nhear you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the demon about the dagger", "response": "The demon puts his dagger away (seemingly into thin air), pulls out a\nnewspaper (also out of thin air) and opens it. \"Sorry, did you say\nsomething?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the demon about the newspaper", "response": "shoulder, where it disappears with a loud pop, and instead pulls out a\ndagger out of thin air and starts picking his claws. He gives no sign\nof having heard you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "As you walk past the demon (slightly apprehensively, of course, you\nnever know with demons), he nods at you. \"Let's see, you must be\nRichard, right? My late master hasn't treated you very generously in\nhis will, has he?\" He quickly checks a list.\n\"Let's see. You're allowed to take one thing - not more - from the\nhouse through this door. Of course, your relatives have pretty much\nscoured the place for valuables, so I'm afraid there's not very much\nleft for you.\" For a moment, you imagine you can trace some genuine\npity in the demon's expression; however, it soon returns to his usual\nsneer. \"Not that they found very much of value, either. You should\nhave seen their faces when they realized the house wasn't filled with\ngold...\"\nThe demon starts to wave you past, when he suddenly seems to\nremember something. \"Ah, yes, this is for you,\" he says off-handedly,\nholding out a letter towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the letter", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "The letter is written in uncle Zebulon's familiar hand.\n\"My dear Richard,\nWhen you read this, I'm afraid I'll have left this world for good. By\nnow you should have heard of my will and of the little jokes I have\nplayed on your relatives. I am sure they are all furious; they had\nhoped for far more. Perhaps you too are angry with me, perhaps you\nthink I should have been more generous towards you?\nWell, let me tell you this: you've always been my favourite nephew,\nbecause we share (I hope) the same basic outlook on life: it's all a\nrather cruel game, with rules that are there to be circumvented.\nPlaying fair doesn't mean you shouldn't do the unexpected! I don't\nwant to openly favour you before your cousins, but I think you're far\nmore likely than they are to exploit the advantages of the situation.\nYou may call it a little test, or game, or whatever. My final advice\nto you is: follow the rules by the letter and you may find that new\npossibilities open up.\n\nYour affectionate uncle, Zeb.\"\n\n[Your score just went up 5 points]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "letter: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The demon lets you past with a slightly amused sneer.\n\nhall, but at least there is this small room, with just enough space for\na coathanger and a narrow staircase up to a trapdoor in the ceiling.\nWooden doors lead north, east, west and south.\nYou see a lead coin here.\n\nAs soon as you enter you realize, with a sinking feeling, just how\nthoroughly your relatives have searched the house for valuables -\nbasically everything of value has been removed. The coin on the floor\nmust have been dropped there by oversight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the coin", "response": "Lead may not the most practical of materials for coinmaking, but this\ncoin is actually made of grey, soft lead. Not only the metal, but also\nthe shape, of the coin is unusual: it's octagonal. It bears the image\nof a trident, surrounded by curious letters you can't read.\n(In fact, this coin happens to be a genuine quarter-frob piece from\nthe country of Frobnizzia. The Frobnizzian coins are notable for the\ngreat variety of materials used in making them; especially notable is\nthe one-gnark coin (one gnark being equal to 27 2/3 frobs), which was a\ngranite disk two feet in diameter. The size and weight of this coin\nwere intended to deter purse-snatchers; unfortunately, they had other\neffects as well, such as being the major cause of the collapse of the\nFrobnizzian economy.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "(Opening the kitchen door)\nKitchen\nThe kitchen is probably tidier now than it ever was during uncle\nZebulon's lifetime. The well-worn pine table and the large cupboard\nare still there, but all traces of atmosphere seem to have vanished\nalong with the piles of unwashed dishes. Your relatives have evidently\nbeen hard at work, removing all the kitchenware and utensils, even the\niron stove. They've left the kitchen sink behind, though - probably by\noversight.\nYou see a large carrot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat it", "response": "The large carrot looks rather dry and doesn't seem very appetizing. It\ndoesn't smell very appetizing either. Come to think of it, you're not\nvery hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sink", "response": "It's just an old, rather dirty, kitchen sink of galvanized iron. There\nare no taps - uncle Zebulon never bothered to install running water,\nbut used to fetch his from the village well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open cupboard", "response": "Opening the cupboard reveals a blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "diameter - and is made of thick glass of a beautiful, deep blue colour.\nYou estimate that it will hold about half a litre of liquid. It seems\nto contain a silver coin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "This coin, a Frobnizzian nineteen-frob piece, is hexagonal and made of\nsilver. It bears the picture of a crescent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The only exit is the door back to the hall, to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "hall, but at least there is this small room, with just enough space for\na coathanger and a narrow staircase up to a trapdoor in the ceiling.\nWooden doors lead north, east, west and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(Opening the south door)\nStudy\nYou are in what uncle Zebulon used to call his study, but which also\ndoubled as his bedroom. You remember this room as being full of books:\nbookshelves crammed with them, books on the overflowing desk, stacks of\nbooks on the floor.\nNow, the bookshelves gape empty; the narrow, rickety bed is gone, as\nare the soft carpets. Only your uncle's desk remains, along with the\nsmell of old books and stale tobacco smoke. The only door leads north,\nback into the hall.\nOn the desk you see a book and a crystal ball.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take book", "response": "As you open the book and flip through the pages, you find that it's a\n\nthe entire story changes in response to choices made by the reader.\nThis particular one happens to be one of the great classics of the\ngenre: 'Dork', the story of a young man entering a great underground\ncomputing centre, vanquishing the evil Hacker of Foobar, and finally\nbecoming System Manager. Of course, the story may sound a bit childish\n- everyone knows that computers only exist in fairytales and that\nhackers are purely mythical creatures - but it's still immensely\npopular.\n\nAs you close the book again, a sheet of paper falls out of it and\nflutters to the ground.\n\n[Your score just went up 5 points]\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "On the paper, the following text is written in uncle Zebulon's neat,\nregular hand:\n\nA perfect match! Yet all illusion\nA total likeness! And yet\nAs different as left from right\nForever kept apart by glass\nUntil the touch of magic stars\nTurns glass to air\nAnd image to reality\n\nThen open will the SECOND PORTAL\nA dark, forbidding one, that scares\nAnd rightly so! Yet victory\nAwaits the one who enters it\n\nGateway to great adventures\nGuarded by Gods of Time and War and Love\nAn offering for each, and you may pass\nEach gift should match one guardian.\n\nYou can't help thinking that while Uncle Zebulon may have been a great\nstoryteller, he was clearly an inferior poet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ball", "response": "It's about fifteen centimetres in diameter. Unlike ordinary crystal,\nit doesn't sparkle in the light; instead, it seems to glow with a misty\nradiance. You feel an almost irresistible urge to gaze into it, as if\nyou were some common fortune-teller.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the ball", "response": "The interior of the crystal ball is surprisingly cloudy, almost as if\nyou were looking into murky water. Soon, however, the mist seems to\nclear, giving place to an image of uncle Zebulon putting coins into a\nbottle.\nPresently, the vision fades away, and the crystal gets cloudy again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the ball", "response": "The interior of the crystal ball is surprisingly cloudy, almost as if\nyou were looking into murky water. Soon, however, the mist seems to\nclear, giving place to an image of yourself searching through a large\npacking crate.\nPresently, the vision fades away, and the crystal gets cloudy again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the ball", "response": "The interior of the crystal ball is surprisingly cloudy, almost as if\nyou were looking into murky water. Soon, however, the mist seems to\nclear, giving place to an image of a young girl throwing a coin into a\nwell, making a wish with her eyes closed.\nPresently, the vision fades away, and the crystal gets cloudy again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the ball", "response": "The interior of the crystal ball is surprisingly cloudy, almost as if\nyou were looking into murky water. Soon, however, the mist seems to\nclear, giving place to an image of uncle Zebulon aiming a wand at a\nlarge carrot. The carrot turns into a very surprised-looking rabbit.\nUncle Zebulon chuckles.\nPresently, the vision fades away, and the crystal gets cloudy again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the ball", "response": "The interior of the crystal ball is surprisingly cloudy, almost as if\nyou were looking into murky water. Soon, however, the mist seems to\nclear, giving place to an image of yourself looking into a crystal\nball.\nPresently, the vision fades away, and the crystal gets cloudy again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "that used to cover it (uncle Zebulon always had to clear off part of it\nwhen he wanted to write). It is made of oak and has a single drawer,\nwhich is closed.\nOn the desk you see a crystal ball.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Opening the drawer reveals a green glass lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lens", "response": "It's about ten millimetres in diameter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search desk", "response": "that used to cover it (uncle Zebulon always had to clear off part of it\nwhen he wanted to write). It is made of oak and has a single drawer,\nwhich is open.\nOn the desk you see a crystal ball.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the coins in the bottle", "response": "You can only do that to one thing at a time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the silver coin in the bottle", "response": "Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "hall, but at least there is this small room, with just enough space for\na coathanger and a narrow staircase up to a trapdoor in the ceiling.\nWooden doors lead north, east, west and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(Opening the east door)\nSitting room\nAfter your relatives have gone over it, uncle Zebulon's sitting room\nlooks curiously empty. Most of the furniture has been removed. Of all\nthe things that used to give the room its atmosphere, just a few,\nobviously not very valuable ones, remain: the old armchair where you\nused to sit and watch uncle Zebulon entertain you with his magic (or\n\"conjuring tricks\", as your down-to-earth parents preferred to call\nit), your uncle's pipe rack, the large mirror on the north wall.\nYou see a green bottle here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rack", "response": "It's empty. Apparently, there's a keen smoker among your relatives.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the green", "response": "Which green do you mean, the green glass lens, or the green bottle?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bottle", "response": "diameter - and is made of thick glass of a beautiful, sea-green colour.\nYou estimate that it will hold about half a litre of liquid. A neatly\nhandwritten label says 'FILL ME'. The bottle is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chair", "response": "It may not be a great looker, but this battered old armchair has always\nbeen your fave piece of furniture. On stormy autumn nights you'd relax\nin its comfy depths, cosy in front of the roaring fire, while your\nuncle would tell you the most hair-raising ghost stories or entertain\nyou with some magic tricks (which you steadfastly insisted were real\nmagic, even though your parents tried hard to convince you they were\njust sleight of hand).\nEven today, a decade later, you feel an almost irresistible urge to\nsit in that armchair once more, just to recall the feeling of those\nlong-gone days.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the chair", "response": "sigh. However, it doesn't seem as comfortable as you recall it.\nStrange...\nAfter a while, you realize that you're sitting on something hard.\nThere seems to be something hidden within the armchair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search chair", "response": "You find a magic wand hidden deep inside the armchair.\n\n(Don't feel too smug about it, though; I suppose nobody could have sat\nin the armchair without feeling the wand.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wand", "response": "around the country: a narrow, tapering rod, about thirty centimetres\nlong, and made of some dark wood, probably ebony. Your uncle used to\nhave several, and you've often seen him point them at things, with\nvarious interesting results.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the wand at the carrot", "response": "The wand sputters, emitting a stream of brilliantly shining stars. The\nstars collect in a cloud around the carrot, which starts to undergo a\ncurious transformation, growing smaller and rounder and redder and...\nWhen the stars gradually fade away, you see that the carrot has turned\ninto a big, succulent tomato. Amazing - you must have found a wand of\nVegetable Polymorphism!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the wand at the tomato", "response": "The wand sputters, emitting a stream of brilliantly shining stars that\nstrike the tomato and explode with little popping noises. The tomato\nstarts to elongate, its colour changing into orange, and has sooned\nturned back into a carrot. Those wands of Vegetable Polymorphism may\nbe pretty useless, but they are great fun, aren't they?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "You're a bit surprised that your relatives left this mirror behind,\nsince it's probably quite valuable, or at least old. Perhaps its size\nhas something to do with it: it's almost a metre wide and taller than\nyou are. When you were a kid you used to fantasize about this being a\nmagic mirror, and you imagined that when looking into it you could see\ninto another world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the mirror", "response": "The glass is old and slightly flawed, so the image isn't as crisp as\nyou'd expect from a newer mirror. Your reflection looks like you, yet\nsomehow like a different person, more cynical, with a slightly cunning\nlook. The old glass makes it hard to make out all the detail, but the\nreflection of the room behind you looks slightly different, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the wand at the mirror", "response": "The wand sputters, emitting a stream of brilliantly shining stars.\nAmazingly, the stars seem to pass straight through the mirror. They\nstrike your mirror image, which is standing there with a wand in its\nhand, looking at you with a slightly silly expression. With a strange,\ntearing sound, your mirror image wavers and disappears.\nShocked, you look again. Sure, you can see the mirror image of the\nroom, and everything in it, but not your own image. You take a quick\nlook down at yourself, just to check - yes, you're still visible.\nRunning up to check the mirror, you realize that the glass is gone; the\nempty frame forms a portal into a room behind, where no room ought to\nbe.\n\n[Your score just went up 10 points]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "(the mirror)\nFeeling like Alice in Wonderland, you step through the empty mirror\nframe. A curious wrenching sensation passes through your body, as if\nyou've been disassembled into atoms and then rapidly put together\nagain.\n\nWell, what do you call a perfect mirror image of a sitting room?\nSuperficially, this room looks exactly like its counterpart on the\nother side of the mirror, except for the eerie fact that everything's\ninverted, of course; there's an armchair, and a pipe rack, an empty\nmirror frame on the south wall, and a wooden door leading west.\nYou see a small glass flask here.\n\nThis room shouldn't be here at all. After all, you've seen your\nuncle's house from the outside many times, and it simply isn't large\nenough to accommodate one more room...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flask", "response": "This is a small glass flask, of the type often found in alchemistry\nlabs. It contains a quantity of greenish liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at rack", "response": "It looks exactly like its counterpart on the other side of the mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chair", "response": "It looks exactly as its counterpart on the other side of the mirror,\nonly inverted. For example, the large stain on the right armrest is on\nthe left one - or is it the other way round?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "mirror image of the hall, but to a narrow spiral staircase that leads\nup a circular stairwell with stone walls, and through a hole in the\nceiling.\n\nYou are in a rather small, circular room that seems to be the top\nfloor of a high tower. Four large windows, one in each compass\ndirection, give you a panoramic view of a wild and marvellous\nlandscape: a mountain range of impossibly steep crags to the north; to\nthe west, the sea; to the south and east a wide, sandy desert. Far\naway to the southwest, where the sea meets the desert, stands a\nfantastic fairy-tale city of marble and shimmering gold, needle-sharp\nspires and bulbous crystal domes. The scene is illuminated not by the\nsun, but by cold starlight from a sky like black velvet studded with\ndiamonds; nameless stars in constellations you don't recognize.\n\na curious mechanism. A spiral staircase leads down.\nYou see a scroll here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mechanism", "response": "This beautiful piece of intricate machinery seems to be a model of the\nsolar system. On a large disk of black marble, studded with silver\nstars, the orbits of the planets are laid out as narrow tracks. The\nplanets are represented by small disks of precious stones that move,\never so slowly, along their tracks, driven by some hidden clockwork.\nIn the centre of the disk is the sun: a golden ball, resting on a\nsmall bronze stand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ball", "response": "Which ball do you mean, the crystal ball, or the gold ball?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Gold", "response": "It's the size of a large marble - about a centimetre and a half in\ndiameter - and surprisingly heavy. Surely it can't be made of solid\ngold?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the city", "response": "The city is too far away for you to see very much detail, but it\ndoesn't resemble any city you've ever seen. Despite its breathtaking\nbeauty, something about it seems wrong; it's brightly lit, yet seems\ncuriously devoid of life. If only you could get there to\ninvestigate...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scroll", "response": "The scroll is a rolled-up piece of rather thick paper. To your\namazement, you notice that there's something written on it, and in\nuncle Zebulon's handwriting (what a surprise!).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "My dear nephew,\n\nI'm glad that you've discovered the way through the mirror, and into\nmy secret tower. It's here, in the realm you can see from the windows,\nthat I've spent most of my time the last few years, the time you and\nyour relatives thought I was just pent up inside my house. I may not\nhave collected much gold and belongings in your world, but in the world\nof Vhyl and the city of Cyr-Dhool are treasures beyond belief and\nadventures that surpass your wildest dreams.\n\nThe portal to Vhyl is hidden, but I have no doubt that you will find\nit. Once you've opened it, and passed the portal that's beyond it,\nyour true inheritance awaits you, at the end of a quest I shall never\nhave the time to finish. Your relatives have no doubt already removed\nwhat little there is of value in my house; what they have left behind,\nhowever, may be of more use to you.\n\nWith hope of your success,\nyour affectionate uncle,\nZebulon", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pedestal", "response": "The pedestal is about a metre high and not very interesting; the\nmechanism that's resting on top of it is, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stars", "response": "You don't recognize the constellations. You must be very far indeed\nfrom home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The only way out is via the stairs.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "Well, what do you call a perfect mirror image of a sitting room?\nSuperficially, this room looks exactly like its counterpart on the\nother side of the mirror, except for the eerie fact that everything's\ninverted, of course; there's an armchair, and a pipe rack, an empty\nmirror frame on the south wall, and a wooden door leading west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at rack", "response": "It looks exactly like its counterpart on the other side of the mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are in a rather small, circular room that seems to be the top\nfloor of a high tower. Four large windows, one in each compass\ndirection, give you a panoramic view of a wild and marvellous\nlandscape: a mountain range of impossibly steep crags to the north; to\nthe west, the sea; to the south and east a wide, sandy desert. Far\naway to the southwest, where the sea meets the desert, stands a\nfantastic fairy-tale city of marble and shimmering gold, needle-sharp\nspires and bulbous crystal domes. The scene is illuminated not by the\nsun, but by cold starlight from a sky like black velvet studded with\ndiamonds; nameless stars in constellations you don't recognize.\n\na curious mechanism. A spiral staircase leads down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Feeling like Alice in Wonderland, you step through the empty mirror\nframe. A curious wrenching sensation passes through your body, as if\nyou've been disassembled into atoms and then rapidly put together\nagain.\n\nAfter your relatives have gone over it, uncle Zebulon's sitting room\nlooks curiously empty. Most of the furniture has been removed. Of all\nthe things that used to give the room its atmosphere, just a few,\nobviously not very valuable ones, remain: the old armchair where you\nused to sit and watch uncle Zebulon entertain you with his magic (or\n\"conjuring tricks\", as your down-to-earth parents preferred to call\nit), your uncle's pipe rack, the large mirror on the north wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "(Opening the trapdoor)\nAttic\nYou remember spending long hours as a child exploring the mysterious\ntreasures of uncle Zebulon's attic: looking through old sea-chests\nfull of exotic souvenirs from your uncle's travels, trying on curious\nold clothes, hiding under strange pieces of furniture - and upsetting\nyour mother when returning home covered in dust and with cobwebs in\nyour hair. That was long ago, however; now, the attic just seems like\na depressingly untidy storage space full of old junk and devoid of any\nmystery. Besides, it seems as if anything even remotely interesting or\nvaluable has been carried away. A trapdoor in the floor leads down.\nYou see a packing crate and an old brass plate here.\n\nAs your head emerges through the trapdoor, you are greeted by a cloud\nof dust that makes you sneeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crate", "response": "The packing crate is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opening the packing crate reveals some wood shavings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search shavings", "response": "You burrow through the wood shavings, raising a lot of dust in the\nprocess, when your hand touches something hard. It seems you've found\na small teak box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "This small box is made of exquisitely crafted teak wood, with a highly\npolished surface. It is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opening the small teak box reveals a red glass lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plate", "response": "It's an old, rather thin plate of Indian brass, slightly dented and\nprobably not worth very much. On the tarnished surface you can just\nbarely make out a rather clumsy depiction of a scorpion and some stars\n- probably an astrological reference, since the following text is\nengraved on the back side:\n\nGOLD The Sun, Ruler of the Daylit Sky\nSILVER Luna, Mistress of the Night\nMERCURY Wing-footed Messenger of the Gods\nCOPPER Venus, Carnal Love\nIRON Mars, Blood-red Bringer of War\nTIN Jupiter, Ruler of the Gods\nLEAD Saturn, Lord of Time Itself", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You have a blue bottle, a book, a sheet of writing paper, a green glass\nlens, a crystal ball, a green bottle, a magic wand, a large carrot, a\nsmall glass flask, a gold ball, a scroll, and a small teak box. The\nblue bottle seems to contain a silver coin and a lead coin. The small\nteak box seems to contain a red glass lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the plate", "response": "You've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the liquid", "response": "The liquid is rather thick, faintly greenish, and has a decidedly\nunpleasant smell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the silver in the liquid", "response": "The silver coin falls into the greenish liquid, which begins to foam\nand bubble with a hissing sound. Acrid green fumes billow out of the\nflask, making your eyes water. The reaction doesn't stop until all the\nliquid has boiled away. The silver coin seems to have grown darker and\nduller. In fact, it doesn't look like silver at all any more, but more\nlike iron.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the iron coin", "response": "This coin, a Frobnizzian two-frob piece, is hexagonal and made of iron.\nIt bears the picture of a sword.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You have a blue bottle, a book, a sheet of writing paper, a green glass\nlens, a crystal ball, a green bottle, a magic wand, a large carrot, a\nsmall glass flask, a gold ball, a scroll, a small teak box, and an iron\ncoin. The blue bottle seems to contain a lead coin. The small teak\nbox seems to contain a red glass lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the green lens in the box", "response": "Which box do you mean, the small teak box, or the packing crate?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the teak", "response": "This small box is made of exquisitely crafted teak wood, with a highly\npolished surface. It is open. Inside it, you see a red glass lens and\na green glass lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Small", "response": "Closed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "hall, but at least there is this small room, with just enough space for\na coathanger and a narrow staircase up to a trapdoor in the ceiling.\nWooden doors lead north, east, west and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all but the teak", "response": "blue bottle: Dropped.\nbook: Dropped.\nsheet of writing paper: Dropped.\ncrystal ball: Dropped.\ngreen bottle: Dropped.\nmagic wand: Dropped.\nlarge carrot: Dropped.\nsmall glass flask: Dropped.\ngold ball: Dropped.\nscroll: Dropped.\niron coin: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "On this rickety porch, uncle Zebulon used to spend the long summer\nevenings, relaxing in his rocking chair and smoking his pipe. Your\nparents used to sneer at his laziness; why couldn't he use all that\nspare time to make his garden look a little more respectable?\nThe rocking chair is still there, right outside the front door of\nthe house. It is not occupied by uncle Zebulon, though, but by a\nsneering, rather mean-looking demon.\nYou see a letter here.\nThe demon is reading a newspaper, occasionally keeping an eye on the\ndoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The demon looks hard at what you're carrying. \"Hey, there's something\nhidden inside that small teak box! You're not trying to cheat, are\nyou?\" With a scaly arm, he blocks your passage. \"I'm only going to\nlet you carry one thing through this door!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The demon lets you past with a slightly amused sneer.\n\nhall, but at least there is this small room, with just enough space for\na coathanger and a narrow staircase up to a trapdoor in the ceiling.\nWooden doors lead north, east, west and south.\nYou see a blue bottle, a book, a sheet of writing paper, a crystal\nball, a green bottle, a magic wand, a large carrot, a small glass\nflask, a gold ball, a scroll, and an iron coin here. The blue bottle\nseems to contain a lead coin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Empty blue bottle", "response": "You will have to remove things from the blue bottle one at a time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open teak", "response": "lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take green lens", "response": "Taken.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put red lens in the green bottle", "response": "As soon as it hits the bottom of the bottle, the red glass lens\nvanishes with a popping sound. The bottle is now empty. A split\nsecond later, you hear a pinging noise from the blue bottle.\n\n[Your score just went up 5 points]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the blue bottle", "response": "diameter - and is made of thick glass of a beautiful, deep blue colour.\nYou estimate that it will hold about half a litre of liquid. It seems\nto contain a red glass lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all but the blue bottle", "response": "small teak box: Dropped.\nlead coin: Dropped.\ngreen glass lens: Dropped.\nred glass lens: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "On this rickety porch, uncle Zebulon used to spend the long summer\nevenings, relaxing in his rocking chair and smoking his pipe. Your\nparents used to sneer at his laziness; why couldn't he use all that\nspare time to make his garden look a little more respectable?\nThe rocking chair is still there, right outside the front door of\nthe house. It is not occupied by uncle Zebulon, though, but by a\nsneering, rather mean-looking demon.\nYou see a letter here.\nThe demon is picking his claws with a rather nasty-looking dagger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The demon gives you a penetrating glance, but lets you pass without\ncomment.\n\nYou are standing just inside the gate of uncle Zebulon's garden, on\nthe weed-infested gravel path that leads east up to the porch of the\nhouse. On the north side of the lawn, almost hidden behind the huge,\nunkempt rosebushes, is the garden shed. The bright summer sun glistens\non the wet grass, and the air, fresh from the recent rain, is alive\nwith the buzzing of insects and filled with sweet fragrances.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This shed was used by uncle Zebulon for his goldmaking: strange\nexperiments that could often be smelt from across town, even occasional\nexplosions. Your uncle spoke very little of his experiments, and never\nshowed any signs of making money out of them, yet people generally\nassumed that they were successful and a source of great wealth. In all\nother matters, your family regarded uncle Zebulon as a useless dreamer,\neven an embarrassment, but they took a certain reluctant pride in his\nreputation as a goldmaker.\n\nAs a consequence of your relatives' frantic search for valuables,\nthe place is in an even greater mess than you remember. The workbench\nhas been cleared of the usual odds and ends, and all even remotely\nuseful tools or utensils have been removed. Large heaps of junk and\nbroken glass remain in the corners, and in the centre of the room is a\nlarge, hideous statue of a three-eyed dog - probably some exotic idol\nbrought home from your uncle's travels. You can't remember ever seeing\nit before.\nOn the bronze stand you see a scrap of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The demon lets you past with a slightly amused sneer.\n\nhall, but at least there is this small room, with just enough space for\na coathanger and a narrow staircase up to a trapdoor in the ceiling.\nWooden doors lead north, east, west and south.\nYou see a blue bottle, a book, a sheet of writing paper, a crystal\nball, a green bottle, a magic wand, a large carrot, a small glass\nflask, a gold ball, a scroll, an iron coin, a small teak box, a lead\ncoin, a green glass lens, and a red glass lens here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The demon gives you an amused look. \"So, you've made your choice, have\nyou?\" Producing a clipboard out of thin air, he proceeds to tick off\nyour name. \"Let's see... Richard: a blue bottle. Well, I suppose\nthat might prove useful some day. Or perhaps not. But who am I to\nquestion your choice?\" With an air of seriously doubting your\njudgement, he lets you pass. \"Have a nice day.\"\n\nYou are standing just inside the gate of uncle Zebulon's garden, on\nthe weed-infested gravel path that leads east up to the porch of the\nhouse. On the north side of the lawn, almost hidden behind the huge,\nunkempt rosebushes, is the garden shed. The bright summer sun glistens\non the wet grass, and the air, fresh from the recent rain, is alive\nwith the buzzing of insects and filled with sweet fragrances.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This shed was used by uncle Zebulon for his goldmaking: strange\nexperiments that could often be smelt from across town, even occasional\nexplosions. Your uncle spoke very little of his experiments, and never\nshowed any signs of making money out of them, yet people generally\nassumed that they were successful and a source of great wealth. In all\nother matters, your family regarded uncle Zebulon as a useless dreamer,\neven an embarrassment, but they took a certain reluctant pride in his\nreputation as a goldmaker.\n\nAs a consequence of your relatives' frantic search for valuables,\nthe place is in an even greater mess than you remember. The workbench\nhas been cleared of the usual odds and ends, and all even remotely\nuseful tools or utensils have been removed. Large heaps of junk and\nbroken glass remain in the corners, and in the centre of the room is a\nlarge, hideous statue of a three-eyed dog - probably some exotic idol\nbrought home from your uncle's travels. You can't remember ever seeing\nit before.\nOn the bronze stand you see a scrap of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the blue bottle", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "As you step onto the porch, the demon looks pointedly at you. \"What?\nBack already? Aren't you satisfied with your blue bottle? Remember\nthat you're not allowed to change your mind!\"\n\nOn this rickety porch, uncle Zebulon used to spend the long summer\nevenings, relaxing in his rocking chair and smoking his pipe. Your\nparents used to sneer at his laziness; why couldn't he use all that\nspare time to make his garden look a little more respectable?\nThe rocking chair is still there, right outside the front door of\nthe house. It is not occupied by uncle Zebulon, though, but by a\nsneering, rather mean-looking demon.\nYou see a letter here.\nThe demon is reading a newspaper, occasionally keeping an eye on the\ndoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The demon shrugs and lets you past.\n\nhall, but at least there is this small room, with just enough space for\na coathanger and a narrow staircase up to a trapdoor in the ceiling.\nWooden doors lead north, east, west and south.\nYou see a book, a sheet of writing paper, a crystal ball, a green\nbottle, a magic wand, a large carrot, a small glass flask, a gold ball,\na scroll, an iron coin, a small teak box, a lead coin, a green glass\nlens, and a red glass lens here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the green bottle", "response": "As soon as it hits the bottom of the bottle, the red glass lens\nvanishes with a popping sound. The bottle is now empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the bottle", "response": "Which bottle do you mean, the green bottle, or the small glass flask?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Green", "response": "As soon as it hits the bottom of the bottle, the green glass lens\nvanishes with a popping sound. The bottle is now empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine flask", "response": "This is a small glass flask, of the type often found in alchemistry\nlabs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shed was used by uncle Zebulon for his goldmaking: strange\nexperiments that could often be smelt from across town, even occasional\nexplosions. Your uncle spoke very little of his experiments, and never\nshowed any signs of making money out of them, yet people generally\nassumed that they were successful and a source of great wealth. In all\nother matters, your family regarded uncle Zebulon as a useless dreamer,\neven an embarrassment, but they took a certain reluctant pride in his\nreputation as a goldmaker.\n\nAs a consequence of your relatives' frantic search for valuables,\nthe place is in an even greater mess than you remember. The workbench\nhas been cleared of the usual odds and ends, and all even remotely\nuseful tools or utensils have been removed. Large heaps of junk and\nbroken glass remain in the corners, and in the centre of the room is a\nlarge, hideous statue of a three-eyed dog - probably some exotic idol\nbrought home from your uncle's travels. You can't remember ever seeing\nit before.\nYou see a blue bottle here. On the bronze stand you see a scrap of\npaper. The blue bottle seems to contain a red glass lens and a green\nglass lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put red lens in the left socket", "response": "As you move the red glass lens close to the statue's eye socket, you\nnotice that it seems attracted to it with a surprising force, like a\npiece of iron to a magnet. It fits perfectly and stays put - in fact,\nyou doubt that you could remove it again.\n\n[Your score just went up 5 points]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put green lens in the right socket", "response": "As you move the green glass lens close to the statue's eye socket, you\nnotice that it seems attracted to it with a surprising force, like a\npiece of iron to a magnet. It fits perfectly and stays put - in fact,\nyou doubt that you could remove it again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the left ear", "response": "As you turn the ear there is a distinct click. A loud humming noise\ncomes from inside the statue, and a beam of blue light shoots out from\nits centre eye, illuminating a circle in the centre of the workbench.\nThe blue beam is immediately joined by a red one from the dog's left\neye socket and a green one from the third eye, all focusing on the same\narea.\n\nThe beams flicker for a few moments, and then seem to gain in\nbrightness. To your great astonishment, a clear, sharp image of your\nuncle Zebulon forms in the centre of the illuminated circle. This must\nsurely be some powerful magic at work!\n\n[Your score just went up 5 points]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at image", "response": "Zebulon, crowned by the caption TEST PICTURE.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the right ear", "response": "To your great astonishment, the image of your uncle disappears, and is\nreplaced by one of fishes in an aquarium. To your even greater\nastonishment, the image comes to life, showing the fishes swimming back\nand forth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at image", "response": "The image on the workbench shows colourful fish swimming placidly back\nand forth in an aquarium. It's all very beautiful, but it strikes you\nas being rather pointless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn right ear", "response": "The image changes into one of a lone adventurer, carrying a sword, a\nbrass lantern and a curious collection of sundry items, exploring a\ngreat cave system of twisting passages all alike. You recognize the\nscene as one from a popular historic novel called 'Zork'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "The image changes into one of a field of stars on a totally black sky.\nSuddenly, a strange-looking contraption appears in the middle of the\nimage: it looks almost, but not quite, like a flattened ellipsoid\njoined to a flashlight. The scene changes to what is apparently the\ninside of the contraption, where people in ugly red and blue jumpsuits\nare running around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "The image changes into one of again, a field of stars. This time,\nhowever, nothing more happens. You recognize the constellation of\nGemini, with the twin stars Castor and Pollux.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the image", "response": "The image on the workbench shows again, a field of stars. This time,\nhowever, nothing more happens. You recognize the constellation of\nGemini, with the twin stars Castor and Pollux.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the right ear", "response": "The image changes into one of a huge, purple, dinosaur (or, rather, an\nactor dressed up in a shockingly ugly dinosaur suit) walking around\nwith an insipid smile on his face, surrounded by singing children.\nCuriouser and curiouser, indeed!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the right ear", "response": "The image changes into one of the full moon, shining like a giant\ncheese in the middle of a dark, star-studded sky. The moon's image\nfalls just on the bronze stand on the workbench, illuminating the scrap\nof paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ball", "response": "Which ball do you mean, the crystal ball, or the gold ball?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the gold ball in the green bottle", "response": "As soon as it hits the bottom of the bottle, the gold ball vanishes\nwith a popping sound. The bottle is now empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the image", "response": "The image on the workbench shows the full moon, shining like a giant\ncheese in the middle of a dark, star-studded sky. The moon's image\nfalls just on the bronze stand on the workbench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ball on the stand", "response": "You place the gold ball right in the middle of the image of the moon,\nwhose light reflects off it with a weird glitter.\n\nYou notice a sudden, cold draught, and a gust of wind slams the door\nshut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Opened.\n\nThe light from the image of the moon seems to have a strange effect on\nthe gold ball: it's almost as if it had started to glow by itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You start moving towards the door, but the strange things happening to\nthe gold ball are too hard to ignore.\n\nThe gold ball is most definitely glowing, with a warm, golden, slightly\npulsating light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "Closed.\n\nThe light from the gold ball has reached an almost painful intensity,\nand continues to grow stronger and stronger. Suddenly, there's a small\nexplosion, and you're temporarily blinded. When you can see again, the\ndog has stopped shining, the gold ball is gone, and in the centre of\nthe workbench there's a large hole.\n\n[Your score just went up 15 points]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hole", "response": "The hole is almost a metre in diameter and seems very deep. Inside is\njust darkness; you try to look down into it but can't see a thing.\nWhat's even stranger is that the hole doesn't extend through the\nworkbench - the lower surface of the workbench is intact. You've read\nof gateways into other universes, but only in fantasy books. For a\nmoment, you get a crazy notion that you should enter the hole to see\nwhere it leads...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "As you enter the hole, you are engulfed by total darkness. For what\nseems like an eternity, you sink through a dark void, until, finally,\nyour feet touch solid ground. The darkness is replaced by greyish\nlight, and you find yourself in a strange place...\n\nAround you, a seemingly limitless expanse of flat, greyish ground,\nstretching away in all directions, uninterrupted by any mountains or\neven hills, unadorned by any tree, flower or even a blade of grass.\nAbove you, the uniformly overcast sky, like the inside of a perfect\nleaden bowl, merging with the plain at the curiously indistinct\nhorizon, a horizon that could be a mile away or a million. The air is\nstill and dry, almost dead, with a faint smell of timeless dust. Not\neven the faintest breath of wind breaks the absolute silence. Nothing\nmoves, nothing changes, nothing happens.\nIn front of you, seemingly in the exact centre of this dismal world,\nis a perfectly round, marble basin, filled with still, clear water. In\nthe centre of the basin three colossal Greek statues stand looking out\nover the plain with their unseeing eyes, backs together, faces forever\nfixed in expressions of serene detachment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the statues", "response": "The three statues stand with their backs together, forever looking out\nover the desolate plain with unseeing eyes. Letters chiseled into the\npedestal give their names: Venus, with robes flowing in an imagined\nbreeze, long hair held together by a copper circlet; Mars, stony-faced,\nmuscular, dressed in armour, an iron spear in his hand; Saturn, older\nthan time, grim-faced under a dull leaden crown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the basin", "response": "water. At its centre there is a low pedestal with three marble\nstatues. The surface of the water is perfectly still, like a sheet of\nglass through which you can see a gold coin resting on the bottom.\nThere is an inscription on the rim of the basin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "\"IN THIS BASIN, O STRANGER, IS BOTH OBLIVION AND ADVENTURE; DRINK MY\nWATER AND THY QUEST SHALL END IN SAFETY; SACRIFICE AND THOU SHALT\nCONQUER.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You scoop up some water in your hand and drink it. It's quite\ntasteless. After a short while, your head starts to spin. Reeling,\nyou grasp for support, but find yourself sinking through an endless,\ngrey void, recalling the last day's happenings backwards, realizing\nthat your memories are being erased...\n\nuncle Zebulon's house. Just as you suspected, there was nothing worth\nhaving in the house; your parents were right after all, and your uncle\nwas just an ordinary old man with a vivid imagination.\n\nAfter attending your uncle's funeral, you go back to college and\ncomplete your education as an accountant, embarking on a successful and\nsatisfying career. Sometimes, your thoughts go flashing back to uncle\nZebulon, and you have a nagging sense that you've missed something\nimportant. Those feelings soon pass; after all, you have more\nimportant things to deal with.\n\n You have failed \n\nIn a total of 236 turns, you have achieved a score of 50 points out of\na possible 75, and visited 11 locations out of 12.\n\nYou may restore a saved game, start over, quit, or undo the current\ncommand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gold coin", "response": "An invisible force prevents you from touching the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sky", "response": "The sky is uniformly grey, like the inside of a great leaden bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gold coin", "response": "Through the clear water, you can see it shimmering on the bottom of the\nbasin. Have there been other visitors before you to this place? Has\nsomebody thrown in the coin to have a wish granted?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the basin", "response": "An invisible force stops you from entering the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the green bottle", "response": "As soon as it hits the bottom of the bottle, the lead coin vanishes\nwith a popping sound. The bottle is now empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the green bottle", "response": "That's too large to fit in the green bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the wand", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the coin in green bottle", "response": "As soon as it hits the bottom of the bottle, the iron coin vanishes\nwith a popping sound. The bottle is now empty.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "hall, but at least there is this small room, with just enough space for\na coathanger and a narrow staircase up to a trapdoor in the ceiling.\nWooden doors lead north, east, west and south.\nYou see a book, a sheet of writing paper, a crystal ball, a green\nbottle, a large carrot, a small glass flask, a scroll, a small teak\nbox, and a magic wand here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat it", "response": "The tomato is just as delicious as it looks. As you take the last bite\nout of it, you feel something hard between your teeth. Surprised, you\nremove a copper coin from your mouth. How on earth did that get into\nthe tomato?\n\n[Your score just went up 5 points]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the copper coin", "response": "Even though it's from Frobnizzia, a country that's renowned for its\ncurious currency, there's nothing remarkable whatsoever about this coin\n(in fact, it's remarkable for being the only non-remarkable Frobnizzian\ncoin). It's small, round, made of copper, and bears the picture of a\nheart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the coin in the green bottle", "response": "As soon as it hits the bottom of the bottle, the copper coin vanishes\nwith a popping sound. The bottle is now empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "scrap of paper: Dropped.\nmagic wand: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shed was used by uncle Zebulon for his goldmaking: strange\nexperiments that could often be smelt from across town, even occasional\nexplosions. Your uncle spoke very little of his experiments, and never\nshowed any signs of making money out of them, yet people generally\nassumed that they were successful and a source of great wealth. In all\nother matters, your family regarded uncle Zebulon as a useless dreamer,\neven an embarrassment, but they took a certain reluctant pride in his\nreputation as a goldmaker.\n\nAs a consequence of your relatives' frantic search for valuables,\nthe place is in an even greater mess than you remember. The workbench\nhas been cleared of the usual odds and ends, and all even remotely\nuseful tools or utensils have been removed. Large heaps of junk and\nbroken glass remain in the corners, and in the centre of the room is a\nlarge, hideous statue of a three-eyed dog - probably some exotic idol\nbrought home from your uncle's travels. You can't remember ever seeing\nit before.\n\nThere is a mysterious dark hole in the middle of the workbench.\nYou see a blue bottle here. The blue bottle seems to contain a lead\ncoin, an iron coin, and a copper coin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the LEAD in the basin", "response": "The lead coin falls into the water with a faint splash and sinks to the\nbottom.\n\nAs soon as the coin has come to rest on the bottom, something\nstrange happens: the statue of Saturn comes to life. The marble seems\nto soften somewhat; the aged head turns towards you, and Saturn speaks\nin a deep, hoarse voice. \"Welcome, stranger, to the Portal between\nWorlds. A long way hast thou come, and yet the way that lies before\nthee is even longer.\"\nHe makes a gesture with one hand, and a sound like a whisper is\nheard; a faint breeze sets the still air in motion, carrying a smell of\nsalt to your nostrils. For a moment you imagine hearing booming surf\nin the distance.\n\n[Your score just went up 10 points]\n\nThe statue returns to its previous form, flesh hardening into stone\nagain, the colour draining away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the IRON in basin", "response": "The iron coin falls into the water with a faint splash and sinks to the\nbottom.\n\nThe statue of Mars comes to life with a clanging of armour. Mars'\ngaze remains as hard as before as he looks at you, saying in an\nincredibly powerful voice: \"Thou hast come to claim thy inheritance,\nand claim it thou shalt; but know that thy quest has barely begun.\"\nRaising both arms towards the leaden sky, he brings them down again\nin a motion that somehow seems to tear the sky down as a curtain. The\nleaden overcast is gone, replaced by a glorious night sky, sprinkled\nwith thousands of stars bright enough to read by.\n\nThe statue returns to its previous form, flesh hardening into stone\nagain, the colour draining away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put COPPER in the basin", "response": "the bottom.\n\nThe statue of Venus undergoes a startling transformation: hard,\nwhite marble turning into soft, pale-olive flesh, frozen stone hair\nstarting to flow like a waterfall, white, unseeing eyes suddenly filled\nwith life. \"The end of the beginning has come. The land of Vhyl\nawaits thee!\"\nShe makes a sweeping gesture with one arm. Around you, the plain\nstarts to fade away, as when a painting is washed from a glass pane.\nGradually, another landscape takes shape in front of your eyes: the\ngreyish plain is replaced by sand dunes, the featureless horizon\nbecomes dotted with palms...\n\nYou find yourself standing on a desert road under a magnificent,\nstar-studded night sky. Your hair is ruffled by a cold wind that\nsmells of sand and salt; in the distance you hear the booming sound of\nsurf. You recognize the view from uncle Zebulon's tower. Not a trace\nremains of your previous surroundings.\n\nYou let your gaze wander around the distant horizon, where palm\ntrees are outlined against the starry sky. It is drawn to the\nsilhouette of the fabulous city of Cyr-Dhool, a dreamlike mirage at the\nfar end of a narrow road that winds across the desert of Noori. Drawn\nby a strong feeling that your inheritance awaits you inside the city,\nyou start walking along the road, through the strange country of Vhyl.\n\nYou walk for an hour or so, feeling the cold, invigorating breeze\nagainst your face, letting the dry smells of the desert and the salty\ntang of the distant sea fill your nostrils. In front of you, now and\nthen obscured by intervening dunes, steadily growing larger, you see\nthe city of Cyr-Dhool, its many spires and cupolas glittering in the\nstarlight like some gigantic piece of jewelry. As you get closer, you\nbegin to wonder about the total stillness of Cyr-Dhool; not a single\nlight shows in its windows, not a single movement is seen. Yet the\ncity somehow doesn't seem dead, but rather asleep.\n\nFinally, you reach the end of the road, in an open place just in\nfront of the city's gates. The polished marble walls tower above you,\ngleaming coolly with reflected starlight. Not a single sentry hails\nyou. As you approach the tall bronze gates, they swing open to leave\nthe passage open into a broad, empty street. With a feeling of elation\nyou enter the city to claim your inheritance.\n\n[Your score just went up 10 points]\n\nAnd thus ends the story of uncle Zebulon's will. Many adventures\nawait you in the city of Cyr-Dhool, but they belong to a different\ngame.\n\n You have won \n\nIn a total of 260 turns, you have achieved a score of 75 points out of\na possible 75, and visited 12 locations out of 12.\n\nYou may restore a saved game, start over, quit, or undo the current\ncommand.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Superhero" ]

[ "cover art", "female protagonist", "graphics", "IF Competition 2004", "IFComp Game", "IFComp Winner", "multiple protagonists", "science fiction", "superhero", "Xyzzy Awards 2004" ]

[ 7, 14, 13, 3, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Episode 3:\nLUMINOUS HORIZON\n\nWelcome to LUMINOUS HORIZON!\n\n1) Information about this game\n2) If you've played other Earth And Sky games...\n3) Disable conversation menus\n4) Restore a saved game\n5) Start a new game\n6) Quit the game", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Please make a selection: 2\n\nIt's Continuity Time! Please answer a few questions to help establish what happened in your sessions with earlier Earth And Sky games:\n\nHave you played Part 1, Earth And Sky, to completion?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Please answer yes or no.>\nGreat! Was Aunt Nina blinded at the end of your game session?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Please answer yes or no.>\n\nHave you played part 2, Another Earth, Another Sky, to completion?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Please answer yes or no.>\nExcellent! Were Emily and Austin together at the end of your game session?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Please answer yes or no.>\n\nAnd that marks the end of the continuity questions. Thanks for your participation!\n\nWelcome to LUMINOUS HORIZON!\n\n1) Information about this game\n2) If you've played other Earth And Sky games...\n3) Disable conversation menus\n4) Restore a saved game\n5) Start a new game\n6) Quit the game", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "Please make a selection: 5\n\nThere is heat. There is glaring light outside your closed eyes. You are aware of uneven, rocky ground beneath you, its prickles and points muffled by the thick earthsuit that covers your body. You slowly sit up, opening your eyes to an arid landscape of rocks and scrub. How did you get here?\n\nThen the memories erupt. Your parents' disappearance a month ago. Your discovery of their creations, suits that give you and your sister Emily fantastic superpowers. Using those powers to save your campus when longtime family friend Nina Icolari turned into a raging behemoth, transformed by a prehistoric bacteria sample gone amok. When Aunt Nina recovered, she also recovered memories that had been suppressed by mysterious interlopers, memories that led you and Emily to Professor Thaddeus Andrews' remote observation post in the Sierra Nevadas. There, you found an astonishing teleportation device, apparently built by your parents. The device took you to another world entirely, an artificially constructed planetoid built solely for the purpose of testing hyper-evolutionary bacteria, perhaps related to the microbes that affected Aunt Nina.\n\nEmily was transported to the other side of the planetoid's outer structure, where you found the alien scientist in charge of the experiment. That scientist explained to the two of you that his rival Esrrua had stowed a spy-creature aboard the experiment, and that Andrews had tried to intervene in the ensuing fight, only to be captured by Esrrua himself. Your parents had followed to rescue Andrews, pursuing the spy-creature through another teleportation portal... the same one that brought you here. But although Emily is beside you, struggling to her feet and no doubt reliving her own memories, your parents are nowhere to be seen. In fact, besides the bushes and the distant mountains, the area is quite featureless.\n\nWhere are you?\n\nEarth And Sky: Episode 3\n\nScrub bushes and sparse grasses provide a little ground cover for the otherwise rocky, sandy soil of this area. Other than the jagged mountains looming a few miles to the east, this spot seems entirely barren.\n\nA damaged road sign lies at your feet.\n\nEmily hovers a few inches above the ground here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the sign", "response": "This highway sign reads ALAMOGORDO 23. Its steel post appears to have been twisted and deformed by some incredible force, so much so that you can't tell where the sign originally stood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Sporting your earthsuit, you look every inch the superhero. Well, except without the caricatured physique.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Emily", "response": "\"That teleportation thing is so strange, isn't it?\" you say. \"I feel like I just woke up from this amazing dream right into another dream.\"\n\nEmily snorts. \"Yeah, some amazing dream. I pretty much spent the entire time in a prison cell.\"\n\n\"Okay, sure, but come on, how often do you see aliens and robots and space stations and all that kind of stuff?\"\n\n\"I guess,\" she says sullenly.\n\nTime to change the subject. \"So,\" you ask, \"any ideas on what we should do next?\"\n\n\"Well, if it were me, I'd probably explore around this area a bit first, at least do what we can to figure out where we are.\"\n\n\"What do you mean, if it were you? You planning to just hang out and let me do all the work again?\"\n\nEmily glares at you. \"Fine. We should explore this area first. I think we were sent here for a reason, and we just need to find out what's special about this spot.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Scrub bushes and sparse grasses provide a little ground cover for the otherwise rocky, sandy soil of this area. Other than the jagged mountains looming a few miles to the east, this spot seems entirely barren.\n\nA damaged road sign lies at your feet.\n\nEmily hovers a few inches above the ground here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mountains", "response": "The mountains are a few miles distant. Their sharp, jagged peaks feel different, harsher than the solemn ridges of your familiar Sierra Nevadas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You consider heading towards the mountains, but something just feels wrong about that. If you were supposed to find your parents there, why wouldn't the teleporter have sent you there to begin with?\n\nWhat the--? For a second there you could swear you saw the air shimmer in the heat, except that there's no heat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You can see nothing but more scrub in that direction. You take a few steps, then turn around when you realize the uselessness of aimless wandering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You consider heading towards the mountains, but something just feels wrong about that. If you were supposed to find your parents there, why wouldn't the teleporter have sent you there to begin with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You leap straight up to get a higher perspective on your surroundings. At the zenith of your leap, you can see a black, winding stripe of road some distance to the west. The mountains to the east are craggy and forbidding, and the rest of the landscape is desolate. Then gravity pulls you back down to where you started.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump west", "response": "With practiced ease, you launch yourself up and westwards, soaring over acres of terrain and landing by a decaying road. Emily follows your trajectory, and lands alongside you.\n\nYou are standing on a decrepit country highway, just barely paved, and even that probably happened twenty years ago. The road is deserted -- it's obviously seldom used, if at all. The crumbling asphalt leads north and south in a distracted, wandering fashion.\n\nEmily stands here, looking around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the asphalt", "response": "If you were hoping to give some new shock absorbers a really good test, this is the road you'd want to visit. It's twisty, uneven, and littered with potholes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Emily", "response": "\"This doesn't make any sense!\" you exclaim. \"Why would our parents have followed Professor Andrews into the middle of nowhere? Why would he have been here in the first place?\"\n\n\"Danged if I know,\" says Emily, \"but maybe there's more here than meets the eye. We are talking about aliens, after all -- maybe they're able to conceal things in ways we don't understand. You know, like the Klingon cloaking device or something.\"\n\n\"Better not tell any of your academia friends you know that much about Star Trek.\"\n\n\"Oh, it's okay. I can just claim I'm being a cultural critic.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "It's likely you'd find somebody after following the road, but it might take a long, long time, and would probably take you off the trail of your parents, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Emily", "response": "\"I hate to admit it,\" you say, \"but I'm stumped.\"\n\nEmily smirks. \"Well, even though you know more about superheroes and science than I do, looks like it's up to me to get us out of this one. Lucky for you, I have an idea.\n\n\"Follow me,\" she says, and flies back to your original landing place. With a prodigious leap, you arrive next to her a moment later.\n\nScrub bushes and sparse grasses provide a little ground cover for the otherwise rocky, sandy soil of this area. Other than the jagged mountains looming a few miles to the east, this spot seems entirely barren.\n\nA damaged road sign lies at your feet.\n\nShe closes her eyes, and fog begins to coalesce around her. Within moments, a thick cloud of vapor swirls around you both, thinning a minute or two later to a light mist, refracting the sunlight and clinging persistently to the outlines of a structure you can just barely see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the structure", "response": "The remnants of your sister's fog cloud cling tenaciously to the outlines of a mid-sized fortress, cloaked almost imperceptibly among the shrubs and grasses. The fog is particularly thick around the doors, which look quite solid indeed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the structure", "response": "Not while those doors bar your way.\n\nWhat the--? For a second there you could swear you saw the air shimmer in the heat, except that there's no heat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "The doors seem to be quite locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smash the door", "response": "SLAMMO! You rear back and direct a roundhouse punch at the doors, which fly open and warp on their hinges with the force of your blow! The cloak of invisibility around the fortress flickers, then blinks out altogether, revealing the entirety of the building, standing incongruously in the middle of the empty landscape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the structure", "response": "Now that it's visible, the fortress doesn't look nearly as mysterious, though it certainly still looks quite solid. Basically, it's more or less a large bunker, made of the same indestructible polymer that constituted the cat-alien's research station. The fortress doors have been smashed open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the structure", "response": "You and Emily step into the fortress, hoping for the best.\n\nMaerr's ears swiveled to attention at the distant crash. He locked eyes with Science Master Esrrua, and leaned towards the microphone. \"Should we halt the procedure?\"\n\n\"Of course not, you tail-raiser,\" hissed Esrrua over the com-link. \"It's likely nothing, and besides, there are security robots. Seal the room.\"\n\nMaerr's eyes narrowed. He growled low in his throat, but said nothing. His gaze still on Esrrua, he moved the vertical lever downwards. The sound of servos and a resonant thump told him that the lab was now sealed from the outside world, even as the glass partition separated himself and Esrrua. \"Sealed.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "[Please press a key to continue]\n\nEpisode 3:\nLUMINOUS HORIZON", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "[Please press a key to continue]\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nThe instant you cross the threshold, an earsplitting, discordant screech begins repeating through the corridor, and security robots emerge at the end of the hall, skittering towards you with alarming rapidity!\n\n\"Holy crap!\" shouts Emily over the din. \"I'll keep the robots busy, Austin -- you figure out a way to shut off that godawful noise!\" With that, she goes to work, frying robot after robot with her electrical blasts, even as more and more emerge to replace their fallen comrades.\n\nThe entry corridor of the fortress looks innocent enough, just a simple passageway leading north, with some mangled iron doors at the south end. At the moment, though, what with the rampaging horde of security robots, maybe it doesn't seem so innocent after all. Down the length of the corridor, alarms shriek and red lights flash in perfect synchronization.\n\nA transparent bubble on the wall protects a panel of electronics and urgent-looking lights, lights that pulse with the rhythm of the screeching alarm.\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nYour sister is here, fiercely tossing lightning bolts and fogging the robots. The automatons are piling up, but there seems to be an endless stream of replacements, and Emily can't manage to gain any ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You can't think of a compelling reason to wreck the ceiling.\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nYour sister is here, fiercely tossing lightning bolts and fogging the robots. The automatons are piling up, but there seems to be an endless stream of replacements, and Emily can't manage to gain any ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the robots", "response": "The robots are insectile and frightening, gliding swiftly towards you on four articulated limbs attached to a central platform. Rising from this platform is a central body-stem, from which extend two arms that end in glittering needle points. There seems to be an inexhaustible supply of these things.\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nYour sister is here, fiercely tossing lightning bolts and fogging the robots. The automatons are piling up, but there seems to be an endless stream of replacements, and Emily can't manage to gain any ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bubble", "response": "The bubble is clear but looks quite strong. It completely covers the panel, and shows no sign of being openable.\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nYour sister is here, fiercely tossing lightning bolts and fogging the robots. The automatons are piling up, but there seems to be an endless stream of replacements, and Emily can't manage to gain any ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You punch it", "response": "CRRASH! Your piledriver fist shatters the bubble into thousands of tiny shards!\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nYour sister is here, fiercely tossing lightning bolts and fogging the robots. The automatons are piling up, but there seems to be an endless stream of replacements, and Emily can't manage to gain any ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the panel", "response": "The lights of the panel flash in perfect synchronization with the sounds of the alarm. Although you can discern no obvious operating mechanism, you have a hunch that this panel somehow controls the alarm.\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nYour sister is here, fiercely tossing lightning bolts and fogging the robots. The automatons are piling up, but there seems to be an endless stream of replacements, and Emily can't manage to gain any ground.\n\nEmily slips for a moment, almost slamming to the ground before finally catching herself and floating upward again!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Punch panel", "response": "THUNK! You put a significant dent in the alarm panel, but the alarm plays on.\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nYour sister is here, fiercely tossing lightning bolts and fogging the robots. The automatons are piling up, but there seems to be an endless stream of replacements, and Emily can't manage to gain any ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Switch", "response": "What do you want to switch?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You switch emily", "response": "She's not something you can switch.\n\nSKREE! SKREE! SKREE!\n\nYour sister is here, fiercely tossing lightning bolts and fogging the robots. The automatons are piling up, but there seems to be an endless stream of replacements, and Emily can't manage to gain any ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast panel", "response": "KER-POW! ZZZORK! The alarm panel's casing splits with the force of your lightning bolt, and for a moment all the lights in the corridor flash at strobe intensity. Then they go out, and the alarm sound abruptly stops as the lights flicker back to life. Instantly, the security robots cease their attack and scuttle out of sight, leaving their fallen comrades behind.\n\nThe last dead robot clanks to the ground, and then the corridor is silent, except for a low hum that seems to come from far beneath you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the robots", "response": "[Please press a key to continue]\n\nWhen the alarm stopped, Science Master Esrrua flicked his tail in Maerr's direction without looking up from his work. \"You see? The security bots have solved whatever problem was occurring.\"\n\n\"I regret that you are wrong, pridemate. My displays indicate that living, non-iueeoorr creatures roam the first level.\"\n\nEsrrua scowled. \"Piss! Very well, then, let us make sure they remain there. This procedure is too important to interrupt. Shut down the transport tubes!\"\n\nMaerr's paws raced over the panel. \"They are disabled,\" he said.\n\n\"Good! Now, let us continue. Open containment chamber.\"\n\nMaerr moved the horizontal lever from left to right, and the containment chamber on the other side of the glass partition between Esrrua and himself slid open. \"Opening.\"\n\nEpisode 3:\nLUMINOUS HORIZON\n\nThe entry corridor looks quite the worse for wear from the recent battle. Not only are the southern doors warped and mangled, but the extent of the passageway leading north is scorched, scratched, dented, and littered with nonfunctional security robots.\n\nAn alarm panel adorns the wall here, thoroughly fried by your lightning bolt.\n\nAustin taps his foot nervously beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Austin follows you.\n\nHere, away from the battle scars of the entry corridor, it's easier to see the patterns that dance along the walls: graceful black swirls laid over a softly glowing grey background. From where you stand, paths lead east, west, and south.\n\nAustin is alongside you, his earthsuit nearly blending in with the surroundings.\n\nDirectly opposite the southern corridor, a tall cylinder interrupts the north wall. The tube runs floor to ceiling, with an opening in the front, a foot or two taller than you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cylinder", "response": "The tube is made of the same material as the walls, and is the same color, light grey with black swirls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the tube", "response": "Confidently, you step into the tube. You stand there. You wait. Nothing happens, and there's no space above or below you to fly into, so you step back out again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Austin", "response": "\"Nice job on that bubble,\" you say.\n\n\"And my compliments on your panel-electrocution,\" replies Austin.\n\nAn awkward silence follows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Change", "response": "[now controlling Austin]\n\nFrom where you stand, paths lead east, west, and south.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something interesting.\n\nDirectly opposite the southern corridor, a tall cylinder interrupts the north wall. The tube runs floor to ceiling, with an opening in the front, a foot or two taller than you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Emily", "response": "\"So listen,\" you say, \"about this tube... the design of it looks a little familiar to me. I think it might be related to these transportation tubes I saw on the alien sphere. You step inside it and some kind of gravity control mechanism raises or lowers you to another level. It's really a rather fascinating technology, and I have some ideas as to how it might have been accomplished. Certain subatomic particles have been theorized, and to some extent observed, to have anti-gravitic properties, and it's possible that--\"\n\n\"So,\" Emily interrupts, \"you're saying we should step into this tube?\"\n\n\"We already tested the tube, remember? I have a feeling that it won't be taking us anywhere. We'll have to find some other way into the lower levels.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Punch floor", "response": "THOOM! You bring your mighty foot down on the ground, causing a minor tremor. Nothing useful seems to result.\n\n\"Whoa!\" says Emily, settling back down to the ground. \"Thought you could knock me off my feet, huh? Too bad for you I can fly.\" She sticks her tongue out at you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "From where you stand, paths lead east, west, and south.\n\nEmily is here, watching you.\n\nDirectly opposite the southern corridor, a tall cylinder interrupts the north wall. The tube runs floor to ceiling, with an opening in the front, a foot or two taller than you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThis is a short corridor, leading west to the T junction and dead-ending in a blank wall to the east. Light in these corridors is ambient, radiating evenly from the walls, floor, and ceiling.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something interesting.\n\nAn archway leads south into shadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThis is a huge room, thousands of square feet, with its ceiling high enough to be invisible in the darkness -- in other words, a room very much like your parents' lab back home, and pain pierces you at the thought. However, where your parents' lab is occupied by clutter and machinery, this room is rather bare, except for the large device in the center. At least, you suppose it's bare, but the only light in here is what leaks through the archway leading north; shadows rule everywhere else.\n\nEmily stands a few feet away from you, looking stricken for a moment, then composing herself.\n\nA sizable machine dominates the room, two stories tall and covered in a nest of pipes. It has the unmistakable appearance of a vehicle. You tell Emily so, and she just nods and says, \"Whatever you say, Austin,\" in that way she has.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vehicle", "response": "The vehicle is large and sleek, roughly rectangular in shape but tapering a bit at one end. Its entire surface is covered in a mazy tangle of pipes. Pipes wind around each other and down every side and edge, some terminating in a flare at the ground and others opening dark holes at the ship's untapered end. The whole thing looks a bit like an unfortunate collision between a shoebox and a French horn. No entrance is apparent anywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pipes", "response": "Based on their configuration, you surmise that these pipes must have something to do with propulsion and stabilization of the craft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the pipes", "response": "Unless you manage to acquire a shrinking power, the pipes are too small to enter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Emily", "response": "You've said all you can think of to say to Emily for the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThis is a short corridor, leading west to the T junction and dead-ending in a blank wall to the east. Light in these corridors is ambient, radiating evenly from the walls, floor, and ceiling.\n\nEmily is here, watching you.\n\nAn archway leads south into shadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nFrom where you stand, paths lead east, west, and south.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something interesting.\n\nDirectly opposite the southern corridor, a tall cylinder interrupts the north wall. The tube runs floor to ceiling, with an opening in the front, a foot or two taller than you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThis is a short corridor, leading east to the T junction and dead-ending in a blank wall to the west. Light in these corridors is ambient, radiating evenly from the walls, floor, and ceiling.\n\nEmily leans against the wall here.\n\nA tall archway provides an exit to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Before you break the plane of the archway, you look where you're going, and what you see stops you cold. The room beyond the archway is home to rank upon rank of security robots. There must be hundreds of them, standing alertly in thick regiments. The robots have clearly noticed you -- their bodies swivel to follow your every movement, but they do not advance. Down one of the aisles formed by the regiments, far at the back of the room, the lights of a large machine march in perfect rhythm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the machine", "response": "The machine is at the back of a big room, so you can't make out much -- mostly just that it's large and festooned with flashing lights. The whole thing is maybe the size of a concession stand, with yellow sliding doors on its front, flanked by black walls that curve smoothly away. Given its placement and its shape, you suspect that it serves the purpose of creating the security robots, and perhaps controlling them as well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Punch machine", "response": "The large machine is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "\"Austin!\" shouts Emily. \"What's the matter with you? You saw how tough it was to fight off those robots in a narrow corridor -- stepping into that room would be suicide!\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Oh, right. Good point.\"\n2) \"I can take 'em! I've got SUPER-POWERS!\"\n3) \"But how do we know they'll attack?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 2\n\n\"Super-powers maybe, but you're not invincible, dummy. Those robots would massacre you, and I'd like you around for a while longer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Emily just says, \"Think again, Austin.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast machine", "response": "You look at the machine. It seems so far away, but the robots prevent you from getting any closer. If you're going to blast it, you'll have to do it from here.\n\nYou thrust your hand toward it, willing the skysuit to do its lightning bolt thing. There's a tiny tingle, then a little more, but no lightning. Dammit. Just too far away. You drop your hand.\n\nNo! You've come through an incredible amount of craziness to find your parents, and here you are, and you are not going to be stopped by this! You thrust your hand out again, and this time you keep your arm extended, feeling yourself starting to sweat within the skysuit.\n\n\"My God, of course!\" says Austin. \"You're holding the charge, aren't you? But Emily, be careful! I think your suit's insulation should protect you, but don't push it too far! What you're doing could be dangerous!\"\n\nSuddenly, with a crackle and a bright flash of light, arcs of electricity are dancing between your fingers and the floor near the machine. They're still a few yards away from the big device, but they begin to creep closer... closer...\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "You can't bear to let the charge build any further, and you drop your arm, steeling your resolve to start over. The electrical arcs vanish, and you can breathe again. So you take a deep breath, close your eyes, and extend your arm.\n\n\"Careful, Em,\" says Austin.\n\nSuddenly, with a crackle and a bright flash of light, arcs of electricity are dancing between your fingers and the floor near the machine. They're still a few yards away from the big device, but they begin to creep closer... closer...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "You can't bear to let the charge build any further, and you drop your arm. The electrical arcs vanish, and you can breathe again.\n\nThe ceiling is low enough that all you could do is hover a foot or so above the ground, so you don't bother.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast machine", "response": "So you take a deep breath, close your eyes, and extend your arm.\n\n\"Careful, Em,\" says Austin.\n\nSuddenly, with a crackle and a bright flash of light, arcs of electricity are dancing between your fingers and the floor near the machine. They're still a few yards away from the big device, but they begin to creep closer... closer...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You wait, letting the charge build, and soon the air swims with acrid ozone. Your tongue feels like it's been coated in copper, and your breath comes in quick gasps. The electrical arcs brighten, inching ever closer to the machine, until they're just a few feet away from making contact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "You can barely keep your arm straight as your muscles begin spasming of their own accord. The buzz of the electricity drones relentlessly in your ears, and through the red mist that's rapidly obscuring your vision, you can see that your electrical charge is just inches away from the huge machine.\n\nDistantly, you can hear Austin shouting encouragement. \"You're almost there, Emily! If you can just hang on a few seconds more, you'll get it!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "ZZZORK!\nKA-BOOM!\n\nYour blast reaches the machine, which explodes in a gratifying shower of sparks, like a special effect on the old Star Trek. I did this amazingly hard thing, and the image that comes to my mind is of Star Trek? These are your last thoughts as you slip out of consciousness.\n\n[now controlling Austin]\n\nThis is a short corridor, leading east to the T junction and dead-ending in a blank wall to the west. Light in these corridors is ambient, radiating evenly from the walls, floor, and ceiling.\n\nA tall archway provides an exit to the south.\n\nThe bright current flowing from Emily's fingertips vanishes, and she crumples to the floor.\n\n\"Emily!\" you cry, rushing to her. She doesn't respond. You reach down to pick her up -- she feels light as a sheet of paper in your earthsuited arms. Her head lolls, and then her eyelids begin to twitch.\n\n\"All that electroshock, and I'm still in a rotten mood,\" she says, opening her eyes and smiling weakly up at you. You release the breath you didn't know you were holding, and lower her back down to the ground, steadying her until she can stand up on her own. She looks tired, but none the worse for wear after her ordeal.\n\nThe same can't be said for the distant machine, its lights extinguished and smoke pouring from between its doors. Every robot in the room seems to have been affected by the machine's destruction -- they all slump slightly forward in the same inactive, defeated pose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nThe lights are still ambient and sourceless but much brighter in this room, a cavernous space housing hundreds of security robots. The sound and vibration you felt in other rooms of the fortress is quite a bit stronger here, so much so that you can't hear or feel your own footsteps. At the south end of the room, a ruined robot controller sends plumes of noisome black smoke up to the high ceiling. A tall archway leads north.\n\nEmily is here, watching you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the controller", "response": "This machine is about the size of a concession stand, with yellow double-doors in the front and black polymer walls that curve smoothly away. It is structurally intact, more or less, but it is obviously quite defunct. Its lights have gone out, and black smoke seeps from between its doors. Now that you're closer to it, you can see that the machine isn't just resting on the ground, but instead rises up from it, almost as if it were a part of the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open doors", "response": "You step up to the doors, prying your fingers into the seam between them. With muscles made mighty by the power of the earthsuit, you pull, and the doors slide apart with an earsplitting SKREEEK! of protest, releasing a cloud of evil-smelling black smoke directly into your face. By the time your coughing fit ends, the smoke has dissipated, and you can see a small, dim space beyond the open doors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the controller", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nHere in the guts of the former robot controller, there's barely room for two people to stand up, and even then, they have to be hunched over. Disappointingly, the walls are just more reflective polymer, betraying no information about the inner workings of the device. In fact, the only complicated-looking thing in here at all is the floor, which is a small metropolis of gleaming, interlocking metal pieces, with handle-like protrusions rising prominently from each edge. It's hard to find anywhere to put your feet where you won't be crushing something. The noise and vibration you felt in the outer room are even stronger in here. You can exit through the aperture made by the wrenched-open doors.\n\nEmily is alongside you, resplendent in blue and white.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smash floor", "response": "THOOM! You flatten some of the gears and blocks with a potent stomp, but the floor remains in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull protrusions", "response": "These cramped quarters make it difficult for you to find a place to stand where you can pull the floor up. The fact that Emily is crammed in here with you makes it impossible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emily, to go outside", "response": "\"Okay, but just this once, because it is way too cramped in here.\" She floats serenely out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the protrusions", "response": "With one knee bent and your other foot resting almost all the way outside the chamber, you lean forward, gripping the handles at the furthest edge from the door. You brace yourself, and strain against the floor, willing it upward with every ounce of power in your tired muscles. At first, the floor seems immobile and your effort hopeless, but then you hear the sounds of metal pieces grinding against each other, and you feel the seam begin to give. There is a tearing, then another, and suddenly, an enormously satisfying KKKKRRRKK! as thousands of tiny clockwork pieces smash together and the floor peels backwards like a banana skin, folding into an inviting carpet in front of the robot controller.\n\nThe lights are still ambient and sourceless but much brighter in this room, a cavernous space housing hundreds of security robots. The sound and vibration you felt in other rooms of the fortress is quite a bit stronger here, so much so that you can't hear or feel your own footsteps. At the south end of the room is the robot fabricator, whose former floor is now folded in front of it like a welcome mat. A tall archway leads north.\n\nEmily leans against the wall here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nHere in the guts of the former robot controller, there's barely room for two people to stand up, and even then, they have to be hunched over. Disappointingly, the walls are just more reflective polymer, betraying no information about the inner workings of the device. You're balancing precariously on a thin metal rafter joist, all that's left of the floor you ripped away. Loud, constant machine noise comes from below, where you can see small, blocky robots milling about purposefully, on a floor that's at least five stories down from here. As well as the obvious way down, you can also exit through the aperture made by the wrenched-open doors.\n\nEmily hovers above the hole you've made in the floor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You step off the joist and plummet towards the floor below...\n\nTwo sets of ears snapped alert. \"Something has been torn,\" said Maerr.\n\n\"Status,\" growled Esrrua, his back hunched and his narrow-slitted eyes focused on the crystal held sterile in its transparent container.\n\n\"The intruders have reached the drilling room.\"\n\nScience Master Esrrua emitted a strangled sound. \"This is intolerable!\" he spat. \"Reactivate the transport tubes and send the simian-hunters through them. Instruct them to exterminate the prey immediately. No sport.\"\n\n\"I shall so instruct, though you know their independent natures.\"\n\n\"They will obey or die. These interruptions must cease! Open transfer chamber.\"\n\nOnce again Maerr manipulated the panel, and a quick symphony of servos played. \"Simian-hunters released. Transfer chamber opened.\"\n\nEpisode 3:\nLUMINOUS HORIZON\n\nYou land on the floor with a WHUMP that you can barely hear due to the incredibly high noise level in here.\n\nEmily follows you.\n\nA low, teeth-rattling vibration and a deafening hum fill this room, so loud you feel like you've got knitting needles jammed in your ears. The sonic barrage makes it difficult to concentrate on anything else, but the huge apparatus dominating the north half of the room demands your notice. It's a giant, threaded cone, pointed towards the ground and held by a sturdy frame -- obviously a drill, even if it wasn't poised above an immense hole in the floor, which in fact it is. The drill's operating mechanism isn't readily visible, as you're finding is typical of this alien technology. On the opposite wall, a pile of polished crystals reaches up towards the high ceiling. Between these two monoliths, dozens of small, squarish robots buzz around you constantly, frenetically working at various tasks. A wide archway leads west, and a hole in the distant ceiling provides access to the upper level of the fortress.\n\nEmily stands here, looking around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the robots", "response": "The robots mill around you constantly, each busily working at its prescribed task. Some float up from inside the hole, hauling rocks; others polish these rocks until crystal shines through; others cut the larger crystals into rectangular blocks; and still others sort the crystals into their respective piles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crystals", "response": "The pile of crystals is actually two adjoining piles. One consists of larger specimens, hewn roughly into rectangles, stacked atop one another, and refracting the light quite beautifully. Oddly, the crystals aren't particularly gemlike, looking more like polished glass trinkets with air-bubbles trapped inside them. The other pile appears to be remnants from the first, and ranges from fair-sized, irregularly shaped hunks to powdery heaps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Punch drill", "response": "WHAM! You can't hear the impact, but you certainly feel it as you slam a powerful fist into the frame that supports the drill. It bends perilously, setting the auger at a crazy angle to the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "WHAM! You can't hear the impact, but you certainly feel it as you slam a powerful fist into the frame that supports the drill. It breaks the rest of the way, and the drill topples to the ground with a CRRASH that looks a lot more impressive than it sounds in this earsplitting room. Your action seems to have affected neither the activity level of the robots nor the noise level of the room.\n\n>WHAM! You can't hear the impact, but you certainly feel it as you slam a powerful fist into the frame that supports the drill. It breaks the rest of the way, and the drill topples to the ground with a CRRASH that looks a lot more impressive than it sounds in this earsplitting room. Your action seems to have affected neither the activity level of the robots nor the noise level of the room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A low, teeth-rattling vibration and a deafening hum fill this room, so loud you feel like you've got knitting needles jammed in your ears. The sonic barrage makes it difficult to concentrate on anything else, but the huge apparatus dominating the north half of the room demands your notice. It's a giant, threaded cone, pointed at the wall and lying on its side, thanks to the action of your super-strength and violent tendencies. Apparently, it used to be a drill, but it seems unlikely that it'll be doing any drilling in the near future. The results of its handiwork are still evident in the immense pit that it dug. On the opposite wall, a pile of polished crystals reaches up towards the high ceiling. Between these two monoliths, dozens of small, squarish robots buzz around you constantly, frenetically working at various tasks. A wide archway leads west, and a hole in the distant ceiling provides access to the upper level of the fortress.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the pit", "response": "Darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the echo", "response": "(to Emily)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the crystal", "response": "It would be easy enough to haul around one of these big hunks of crystal. It would be difficult to find a reason to do so.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the drill", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the robot", "response": "They're hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Punch crystals", "response": "You aim a devastatingly powerful blow at one of the crystals, which shatters dramatically into fragments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast crystals", "response": "You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the crystals. With a thundering KER-POW, one of the crystals disintegrates, leaving only a smoking scorch mark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Austin follows you.\n\nYou are at the bottom of a tall, narrow, north-south niche in the earth, like a slice taken out of the warehouse-like drill room. The slice gets narrower towards the top, though, where thick pipes run along the length of the ceiling. To the east, a wide archway emits loud, droning noise.\n\nSLAM! says the archway, and suddenly an implacable black barrier fills it, blocking your way back to the drill room.\n\n\"Oh dear,\" says Austin.\n\nThere is a WHOOSHing sound at both ends of the corridor, and bright colors overpower the hall's neutral tones. At the north end, it's a petite Asian woman hovering just above the floor in a bodysuit of fiery orange and yellow, intricate flame patterns curling across it that mirror the fire dancing around her hands. Opposite her, at the corridor's south end, stands a tall, fair-skinned man, also in a bodysuit, this one a swirling grey latticed with thin streaks of bright purple.\n\nAt this point, three realizations hit you. One, these bodysuits are just like yours, right down to the cowls and masks. Two, if you and your brother represent air and earth, these two must represent fire and water. And three, these are your parents. You've found your parents at last. Alive. But your joy turns to dread as you see the malice in their eyes.\n\n\"Humans!\" shouts your mother imperiously, \"You have invaded the facilities of Science Master Esrrua! Prepare to suffer the consequences! You will meet your death at the hands of FIRE AND RAIN!\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Mom! It's us! It's Austin and Emily! We're here to rescue you!\"\n2) \"Snap out of it, you guys! You're Claire and Scott Colborn! We're your kids!\"\n3) \"Wait. What?\"\n4) \"You named your super-team after a James Taylor song? That is so Baby Boomer!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 4\n\nA burst of flame from your mother's hands is her only answer, and you dodge just in time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the oedipal", "response": "[Please press a key to continue]\n\nDeep Corridor (facing north)\nYou are at the bottom of a tall, narrow, north-south niche in the earth, like a slice taken out of the warehouse-like drill room. The slice gets narrower towards the top, though, where thick pipes run along the length of the ceiling. To the east, a reflective black barrier seals the archway.\n\nYour father is behind you, facing Austin.\n\nYour mother is in front of you, her firelit eyes glaring at you with naked hatred.\n\nYou and Austin are standing back-to-back, each of you facing off against one parent.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father from behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill the fire", "response": "(Mom)\nThat action doesn't fit your code of ethics.\n\nMom floats a little higher into the air, and throws her hands above her head.\n\n\"You have awakened the Hounds Of Esrrua,\" Dad intones from behind you, \"and now you will face the consequences!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast fire", "response": "(Mom)\nA blast of lightning from you would stop her, alright. It would probably kill her. The thought sickens you; even though she's out of her mind, she's still your mother. You have to find another solution.\n\nFSSSH! Mom aims an open hand at you, and a gout of flame shoots outward from it. You manage to avoid the brunt of the blast, but some of the flames still touch your shoulder! The skysuit seems to be holding up pretty well so far, but the sooner you can get out of this, the better.\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad from behind you. Apparently Mom and Dad have spent the last month enrolled in a crash course at the School Of Supervillain Clich?s.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog mom", "response": "You concentrate, but even as the mist forms around your mother, the waves of heat that pulsate from her burn it off immediately.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\nFrom behind you comes the sound of water swirling and crashing, like a waterfall in a fast river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast pipes", "response": "Your lightning powers don't normally work on objects that far away. You know now that if you hold a charge for a very long time, you can sometimes go further, but in this instance it hardly seems worth it.\n\nMom floats a little higher into the air, and throws her hands above her head.\n\nSPLORSH! You can hear one of Dad's water jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Austin leaps upward to avoid it. Unfortunately, that means that the water jet hits you squarely in the back, sending you sprawling towards Mom! You manage to recover in the air and float backwards again, but your bones are still aching from the impact. The skysuit seems to be holding up pretty well so far, but the sooner you can get out of this, the better. A moment later, Austin returns to his former location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "You launch yourself upward, and at the zenith of your leap, you grab one of the pipes that runs along the ceiling.\n\nSmooth black pipes the diameter of SUV tires hang suspended from the ceiling in this cramped space, running parallel down its length, north and south. You, in turn, hang suspended from the pipes. The earthsuit lets you grip them tirelessly, but you still need both arms to do it.\n\nFSSSH! You can hear one of Mom's flame jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Emily flies upward to avoid it. A moment later, Emily returns to her former location.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father from below you, and while he speaks, moisture coalesces seemingly from nowhere to form an aura around his body, covering everything except his head in a watery shell. As it collects, the water spins with incredible speed, effectively becoming kinetic armor.\n\n\"And I thought they repeated themselves a lot before they turned into supervillains!\" shouts Emily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast pipes", "response": "Your lightning powers don't normally work on objects that far away. You know now that if you hold a charge for a very long time, you can sometimes go further, but in this instance it hardly seems worth it.\n\nMom floats a little higher into the air, and throws her hands above her head.\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad from behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to em", "response": "It's true that lots of the great superheroes talk to themselves, but you don't have any exposition you need to do at the moment.\n\nFSSSH! Mom aims an open hand at you, and a gout of flame comes too fast to avoid, nailing you square in the chest! Cracks are beginning to show in the skysuit's outer covering as its insulation wears away under the strain of the attacks.\n\nFrom behind you comes the sound of water swirling and crashing, like a waterfall in a fast river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Austin", "response": "He is too far away.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\nSPLORSH! You can hear one of Dad's water jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Austin drops downward to avoid it. A moment later, Austin returns to his former location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "Easily, you soar upwards.\n\nSmooth black pipes the diameter of SUV tires hang suspended from the ceiling in this cramped space, running parallel down its length, north and south. You're floating just beneath them.\n\nAustin is next to you, hanging onto one of the pipes that runs along the ceiling.\n\nMom floats a little further to the north, and throws her hands above her head.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father from behind and below you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast pipes", "response": "KER-POW! Lightning arcs from your fingers to the pipes, but they are unaffected.\n\nFSSSH! Mom aims an open hand at you and fire jets upward. There's no room to maneuver up here, and the fire hits you directly in the legs! Cracks are beginning to show in the skysuit's outer covering as its insulation wears away under the strain of the attacks.\n\n\"You have awakened the Hounds Of Esrrua,\" Dad intones from behind and beneath you, \"and now you will face the consequences!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Austin", "response": "\"Austin!\" you cry, \"I don't know what to do!\"\n\n\"I know!\" he shouts in an anguished voice. \"They're obviously being controlled somehow! We can't use our powers against them! We have to find a way to snap them out of this state!\"\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother from below you, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad from the ground behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Austin", "response": "\"What did you have in mind?\" you yell over the din.\n\n\"Try talking to them!\"\n\nMom floats a little further to the north, and throws her hands above her head.\n\nUnderneath you and to the south comes the sound of water swirling and crashing, like a waterfall in a fast river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Mom", "response": "She is too far away.\n\nFSSSH! Mom aims an open hand at you and fire jets upward. There's no room to maneuver up here, and the fire hits you directly in the legs! A few pieces of the skysuit's insulation have started to flake off altogether, revealing a freaky mesh of organics and circuitry beneath.\n\nSPLORSH! You can hear one of Dad's water jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Austin drops downward to avoid it. Unfortunately, that means that the water jet hits you squarely in the back, sending you sprawling towards Mom! You manage to recover in the air and float backwards again, but your bones are still aching from the impact. A few pieces of the skysuit's insulation have started to flake off altogether, revealing a freaky mesh of organics and circuitry beneath. A moment later, Austin returns to his former location.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "With a mental command, you descend. Taking his cue from you, Austin plummets back to the floor.\n\nDeep Corridor (facing north)\nYou are at the bottom of a tall, narrow, north-south niche in the earth, like a slice taken out of the warehouse-like drill room. The slice gets narrower towards the top, though, where thick pipes run along the length of the ceiling. To the east, a reflective black barrier seals the archway.\n\nYou and Austin are standing back-to-back, each of you facing off against one parent.\n\nYour father is behind you, facing Austin.\n\nYour mother is in front of you, her firelit eyes glaring at you with naked hatred.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father from behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Mom", "response": "\"Mom!\" you cry. \"Wait! Wake up! Stop!\"\n\n\"SILENCE!\" shouts your mother. \"None may command us save Esrrua himself!\"\n\nMom floats a little higher into the air, and throws her hands above her head.\n\n\"You have awakened the Hounds Of Esrrua,\" Dad intones from behind you, \"and now you will face the consequences!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "You already know how useless that is. Better think of something else.\n\nFSSSH! Mom aims an open hand at you, and you just manage to dodge the gout of flame that flies out from it!\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad from behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Dad", "response": "You'd have to be facing him to do anything like that.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\nFrom behind you comes the sound of water swirling and crashing, like a waterfall in a fast river.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You talk to Austin", "response": "It's true that lots of the great superheroes talk to themselves, but you don't have any exposition you need to do at the moment.\n\nFSSSH! You can hear one of Mom's flame jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Emily flies upward to avoid it. Unfortunately, that means that the firebolt hits you squarely in the back, its heat washing over the earthsuit! The earthsuit seems to be holding up pretty well so far, but the sooner you can get out of this, the better. A moment later, Emily returns to her former location.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father, and while he speaks, moisture coalesces seemingly from nowhere to form an aura around his body, covering everything except his head in a watery shell. As it collects, the water spins with incredible speed, effectively becoming kinetic armor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to em", "response": "\"Talking didn't work!\" you say. \"What else you got?\"\n\n\"Okay, okay -- wait! Look at Dad's costume!\"\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother from behind you.\n\n\"You have awakened the Hounds Of Esrrua,\" Dad intones, \"and now you will face the consequences!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at mom's costume", "response": "You'd have to be facing her to do anything like that.\n\nIt feels a little hotter behind you.\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dad's costume", "response": "Dad's superhero suit is designed like yours, a skintight body stocking with a cowl and mask attached. Unlike the firesuit, its patterns don't directly represent its powers, but the thin streaks of bright purple on its opalescent grey background suggest rainfall well enough. One thing looks out of place, though: a black circle covering the top of his head, looking like nothing so much as a thick plastic yarmulke.\n\nFSSSH! You can hear one of Mom's flame jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Emily flies upward to avoid it. Unfortunately, that means that the firebolt hits you squarely in the back, its heat washing over the earthsuit! Cracks are beginning to show in the earthsuit's outer covering as its insulation wears away under the strain of the attacks. A moment later, Emily returns to her former location.\n\nDad throws his arms high into the air, and the water that had coalesced around his body gathers itself into a gravity-defying ball above his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You punch the yarmulke", "response": "Which do you mean, Dad's skullcap or Mom's skullcap?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dad'S", "response": "Your muscles tense, but you know you can't do it. Even though he seems to have gone insane, he's still your father; a hit from you might kill him, and you're not that Oedipal. You have to find a way to save him instead.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother from behind you.\n\nSPLORSH! Dad leans forward, thrusting both arms towards you, and the ball of water that was suspended above his head elongates itself, coming at you with the force of a firehose! There's no time to dodge, and the blast hits you directly in the chest! You don't feel the impact of the water, but you have a feeling that it's wreaking havoc on the parts of the earthsuit whose insulation has been burned away by Mom's firebolts. Cracks are beginning to show in the earthsuit's outer covering as its insulation wears away under the strain of the attacks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dad's yarmulk", "response": "Which do you mean, the rainsuit or Dad's skullcap?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dad's skullcap", "response": "You lunge at Dad, trying to snatch the cap from his head, but he pivots fluidly, and your hand snatches at air.\n\nIt feels a little hotter behind you.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father, and while he speaks, moisture coalesces seemingly from nowhere to form an aura around his body, covering everything except his head in a watery shell. As it collects, the water spins with incredible speed, effectively becoming kinetic armor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take mom's skullcap", "response": "You lunge at Mom, trying to snatch the cap from her head, but she flies neatly and rapidly out of your way, leaving you grasping at air.\n\nFSSSH! Mom aims an open hand at you, and you just manage to dodge the gout of flame that flies out from it!\n\n\"You have awakened the Hounds Of Esrrua,\" Dad intones from behind you, \"and now you will face the consequences!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast the mom's skullcap", "response": "A blast of lightning from you would stop her, alright. It would probably kill her. The thought sickens you; even though she's out of her mind, she's still your mother. You have to find another solution.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad from behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na skysuit (being worn)\n\nMom floats a little higher into the air, and throws her hands above her head.\n\nFrom behind you comes the sound of water swirling and crashing, like a waterfall in a fast river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Emily", "response": "It's true that lots of the great superheroes talk to themselves, but you don't have any exposition you need to do at the moment.\n\nFSSSH! Mom aims an open hand at you, and a gout of flame shoots outward from it. You manage to avoid the brunt of the blast, but some of the flames still touch your leg! The skysuit is definitely being affected by Mom and Dad's attacks. The sense of lightness you usually feel is wavering intermittently and you can feel your command of fog and electricity slipping from you.\n\nSPLORSH! You can hear one of Dad's water jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Austin leaps upward to avoid it. Unfortunately, that means that the water jet hits you squarely in the back, sending you sprawling towards Mom! You manage to recover in the air and float backwards again, but your bones are still aching from the impact. The skysuit is definitely being affected by Mom and Dad's attacks. The sense of lightness you usually feel is wavering intermittently and you can feel your command of fog and electricity slipping from you. A moment later, Austin returns to his former location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Austin", "response": "\"What are you talking about?\" you bellow.\n\n\"They're bearing attachments that are obviously foreign to the powersuits! The skullcaps! Look!\"\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father from behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Austin", "response": "\"What are you talking about?\" you bellow.\n\n\"They're bearing attachments that are obviously foreign to the powersuits! The skullcaps! Look!\"\n\nMom floats a little higher into the air, and throws her hands above her head.\n\n\"You have awakened the Hounds Of Esrrua,\" Dad intones from behind you, \"and now you will face the consequences!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "Unsteadily, you soar upwards.\n\nSmooth black pipes the diameter of SUV tires hang suspended from the ceiling in this cramped space, running parallel down its length, north and south. You're floating just beneath them.\n\nFSSSH! A fiery bolt from your mother cooks the spot where you were just standing!\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad from the ground behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Austin has better things to do.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother from below you, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\nUnderneath you and to the south comes the sound of water swirling and crashing, like a waterfall in a fast river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dad", "response": "Dad was always the quieter parent, usually lost in his own thoughts or deeply absorbed in his work. Now he's wearing a skintight grey bodysuit with bright violet streaks, leaping about wild-eyed, and shouting as if he's channeling Laurence Olivier's Hamlet. His attacks may be robotic, but they are nonetheless ruthless; you have no doubt that he will kill you if he can.\n\nSomething about the rainsuit he's wearing seems a little odd.\n\nIt feels a little hotter behind you.\n\nSPLORSH! Dad leans forward, thrusting both arms towards you, and the ball of suspended above his head elongates itself, coming at you with the force of a firehose! You nimbly dodge the brunt of the blast, but part of the spout still hammers at your leg. You don't feel the impact of the water, but you have a feeling that it's wreaking havoc on the parts of the earthsuit whose insulation has been burned away by Mom's firebolts. Cracks are beginning to show in the earthsuit's outer covering as its insulation wears away under the strain of the attacks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You launch yourself upward, and at the zenith of your leap, you grab one of the pipes that runs along the ceiling.\n\nSmooth black pipes the diameter of SUV tires hang suspended from the ceiling in this cramped space, running parallel down its length, north and south. You, in turn, hang suspended from the pipes. The earthsuit lets you grip them tirelessly, but you still need both arms to do it.\n\nEmily floats nearby.\n\nYou feel increased heat radiate up at you from the north.\n\nSPLORSH! The water that was above Dad's head shoots outward with the force of a firehose into the spot you just vacated, then rains harmlessly to the ground.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You let go of the pipes and plummet back down to the floor. Taking her cue from you, Emily swoops down as well.\n\nDeep Corridor (facing south)\nYou are at the bottom of a tall, narrow, north-south niche in the earth, like a slice taken out of the warehouse-like drill room. The slice gets narrower towards the top, though, where thick pipes run along the length of the ceiling. To the east, a reflective black barrier seals the archway.\n\nYou and Emily are standing back-to-back, each of you facing off against one parent.\n\nYour father is in front of you, his face flushed with bloodlust.\n\nYour mother is behind you, facing Emily.\n\nFSSSH! You can hear one of Mom's flame jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Emily drops downward to avoid it. A moment later, Emily returns to her former location.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father, and while he speaks, moisture coalesces seemingly from nowhere to form an aura around his body, covering everything except his head in a watery shell. As it collects, the water spins with incredible speed, effectively becoming kinetic armor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You're on the ground already!\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother, as the flames from her hands spread to encompass the rest of her body.\n\n\"You have awakened the Hounds Of Esrrua,\" Dad intones from behind you, \"and now you will face the consequences!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "Unsteadily, you soar upwards.\n\nSmooth black pipes the diameter of SUV tires hang suspended from the ceiling in this cramped space, running parallel down its length, north and south. You're floating just beneath them.\n\nMom floats a little further to the north, and throws her hands above her head.\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad from the ground behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You launch yourself upward, and at the zenith of your leap, you grab one of the pipes that runs along the ceiling.\n\nSmooth black pipes the diameter of SUV tires hang suspended from the ceiling in this cramped space, running parallel down its length, north and south. You, in turn, hang suspended from the pipes. The earthsuit lets you grip them tirelessly, but you still need both arms to do it.\n\nEmily floats nearby.\n\nFSSSH! You can hear one of Mom's flame jets behind you, and there's a WHOOSH as Emily drops downward to avoid it. Unfortunately, that means that the firebolt hits you squarely in the back, its heat washing over the earthsuit! A few pieces of the earthsuit's insulation have started to flake off altogether, revealing a strange mesh of organics and circuitry that would be fascinating if your life wasn't in immediate danger. A moment later, Emily returns to her former location.\n\nDad throws his arms high into the air, and the water that had coalesced around his body gathers itself into a gravity-defying ball underneath you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You switch places", "response": "(with Emily)\nNot while you're hanging on to the pipe.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother from behind and below you.\n\nSPLORSH! Dad thrusts his hands upward at you, and the ball of water elongates itself, coming at you with the force of a firehose! Hanging from the pipes, you can't avoid the waterspout, and it hits your legs! You don't feel the impact of the water, but you have a feeling that it's wreaking havoc on the parts of the earthsuit whose insulation has been burned away by Mom's firebolts. A few pieces of the earthsuit's insulation have started to flake off altogether, revealing a strange mesh of organics and circuitry that would be fascinating if your life wasn't in immediate danger.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You let go of the pipes and plummet back down to the floor. Taking her cue from you, Emily swoops down as well.\n\nDeep Corridor (facing south)\nYou are at the bottom of a tall, narrow, north-south niche in the earth, like a slice taken out of the warehouse-like drill room. The slice gets narrower towards the top, though, where thick pipes run along the length of the ceiling. To the east, a reflective black barrier seals the archway.\n\nYou and Emily are standing back-to-back, each of you facing off against one parent.\n\nYour father is in front of you, his face flushed with bloodlust.\n\nYour mother is behind you, facing Emily.\n\nIt feels a little hotter behind you.\n\n\"You have infected the outer layers of Science Master Esrrua's Mind Outpost, but its core must remain inviolate!\" declaims your father, and while he speaks, moisture coalesces seemingly from nowhere to form an aura around his body, covering everything except his head in a watery shell. As it collects, the water spins with incredible speed, effectively becoming kinetic armor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You switch the places", "response": "What do you want to switch places with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Emily", "response": "\"Emily!\" you shout. \"Change partners!\"\n\nYour sister understands you immediately, and the two of you execute a neat simultaneous turn, leaving you now facing Mom to the north, while Emily looks south to square off against Dad.\n\nFSSSH! Mom aims an open hand at you, and a gout of flame comes too fast to avoid, nailing you square in the stomach! The earthsuit is definitely being affected by Mom and Dad's attacks. You're getting the sense that sometimes it's impeding your movements rather than aiding them, and the power in your limbs definitely seems to be waning.\n\n\"You have awakened the Hounds Of Esrrua,\" Dad intones from behind you, \"and now you will face the consequences!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog dad", "response": "You concentrate, and a thick mist forms around your father, which he immediately absorbs into his watery aura.\n\n\"Those who dare to disturb the work of Science Master Esrrua must feel the heat of his displeasure!\" snarls your mother from behind you.\n\n\"You shall feel the power of Science Master Esrrua rain down upon you!\" shouts Dad.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skullcap", "response": "Which do you mean, Dad's skullcap or Mom's skullcap?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dad's skullcap", "response": "It's a black circle, maybe an inch thick and six inches in diameter, crowning the top of Dad's head. Something about seeing him wearing that little plastic yarmulke just strikes a deep chord of wrongness in you. And it's not just the fact that you know he's an atheist.\n\nIt feels a little hotter behind you.\n\nDad throws his arms high into the air, and the water that had coalesced around his body gathers itself into a gravity-defying ball above his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Unsteadily, you soar upwards.\n\nSmooth black pipes the diameter of SUV tires hang suspended from the ceiling in this cramped space, running parallel down its length, north and south. You're floating just beneath them.\n\nSSSSSSS!\n\nBlazing flames meet the onrushing torrent below you, and steam boils angrily upwards. In moments, the heat is intense, and you have to shut your eyes as you try to protect your exposed facial skin from the scalding vapor. Just as the pain reaches a crescendo, the hissing sounds stop, replaced by peaceful silence and the gradual ebbing of the mist. When you open your eyes, the corridor is clear of steam and your parents lie below, unconscious.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Repair suit", "response": "(the skysuit)\nThe skysuit appears to be in perfect working order already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Repair suit", "response": "(the earthsuit)\nNot while you're hanging on to the pipe.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You let go of the pipes and plummet back down to the floor. Taking her cue from you, Emily swoops down as well.\n\nYou are at the bottom of a tall, narrow, north-south niche in the earth, like a slice taken out of the warehouse-like drill room. The slice gets narrower towards the top, though, where thick pipes run along the length of the ceiling. To the east, a reflective black barrier seals the archway.\n\nEmily is nearby, waiting for you to do something interesting.\n\nBoth your parents are sprawled on the floor here, defeated and out cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Repair suit", "response": "(the earthsuit)\nThe earthsuit appears to be in perfect working order already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dad's skullcap", "response": "Gingerly, you kneel down and pull on the cap, trying not to exert too much pressure on your father's body, which suddenly seems very fragile in the face of your earthsuited strength. The adhesive resists at first, but then the cap pops free, and your father's eyes flutter open. You pull back, ready for another attack, but the hatred that was in his face is gone, replaced by recognition and relief.\n\n\"Kids!\" he cries, embracing you each in turn. \"Where's Claire?\" he says, turning around and answering his own question. \"Austin, please take that thing off of her.\"\n\nYou oblige, and in moments, your mother is awake and herself again.\n\n\"Austin, give me those skullcaps, please,\" says your mother in a tone that permits no dissent. She takes them from you, lays them on the ground together, and fires a fierce, sustained blast of heat at them, melting both into one anonymous lump of black plastic.\n\nPlease select a response:\n\n1) \"Don't you want to study those rather than destroy them?\"\n2) \"What were those things?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 1\n\n\"I never, ever want to see those things again, Austin. I desperately hope that humanity never discovers that particular technology.\"\n\nThen she turns to your father. \"Are you okay, honey?\"\n\n\"Yes, I think so,\" he answers. \"The worst part was having to call that alien 'Science Master' -- he's anything but.\"\n\nMom smiles. \"Well, your ego seems to have survived the experience intact.\" Her expression turns grim again. \"Listen kids, something terrible is going on here.\"\n\nPlease select a response:\n\n1) \"You know, Mom, we are in college. We're not really kids anymore.\" 2) \"Wait, wait, wait. What happened to you guys? You've been missing for a month!\"\n3) \"Yeah, what is going on here? What are these guys drilling for?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 3\n\n\"Salt,\" she says, grimacing. \"See, bizarre as this sounds, our kidnapper is from an extraterrestrial, nonhuman race. He's named Esrrua, and he thinks of himself as a scientist, though he seems to be somewhat of a laughingstock in his own planet's scientific community. He's formed a bizarre plan to redeem himself by perverting an experiment your Aunt Nina was working on -- he's extracting ancient bacterial samples from salt crystals, and plans to release them into the Earth's atmosphere. We have no clue what effect this will have, but it sure seems like a bad idea.\"\n\nEmily chimes in before you can say anything: \"If they're the same bacteria Aunt Nina was working with, they're liable to turn everybody into gigantic green monsters!\"\n\n\"WHAT?!\" say your parents in unison. You and Emily explain the incident with the earthquake, the bacteria, the monster, the antibiotic, and the crushed football stadium. Hesitantly, you also explain that Emily fired lightning into Nina's eyes, and that she remained blind even after she transformed back into her human self.\n\nDad closes his eyes. \"Oh. Oh, poor Nina. I don't know how I can ever forgive myself for creating the thing that did this to her.\" Then he snaps to attention again. \"So this experiment is even more dangerous than we knew. If those bacteria get out, it could mean the end of humanity as we know it!\"\n\nPlease select a response:\n\n1) \"Oh man, I knew there was a downside to this superhero thing. Couldn't we just call the Avengers at this point?\"\n2) \"Great Scott! We've got to stop him! Where is he?\"\n3) \"Does this have anything to do with the alien bacteria lab that I inadvertently wrecked?\"\n4) \"What theory is he trying to test with this experiment?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 3\n\n\"The what, now?\"\n\n\"Oh boy,\" says Emily, \"I smell another recap.\"\n\nYou quickly summarize your experiences on the artificial planetoid with the different environments.\n\n\"So that's what Mrrueao was working on!\" exclaims Dad. \"He was far too arrogant ever to share any information with us. How fascinating that both he and Nina... well, time enough to ponder that later.\"\n\nPlease select a response:\n\n1) \"But Dad, the bacteria I saw didn't turn anything monstrous! They just enhanced intelligence and dexterity!\"\n2) \"Point taken. What do we do next?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 1\n\n\"Really?\" says Dad. \"I wonder if the heightened radiation levels from the nearby nuclear tests somehow--\"\n\n\"People, PLEASE!\" says Mom. \"Right now we've got to stop Esrrua, rescue Thad Andrews, and get the heck out of here!\"\n\n\"Good point, dear.\" Dad examines your suits. \"Austin, come here for a moment. Emily, you too.\"\n\nYour father sizes up the damage to both your suits, and opens a previously seamless panel on the back of each. He moves behind you first, and though you can't feel anything, you know he is manipulating parts of the suit that only he understands. Then he turns to Emily, rapidly tapping relays and touchpads built into the skysuit and seeing the muscles and tendons within the suit twitch in response. \"There,\" he says. \"I've accelerated the self-healing process and run a quick hack to restore functionality, albeit temporarily. We've got to get you back home as quickly as possible, but first, we have some business to take care of here.\"\n\nMom says, \"Honey, do you want to upload the--?\"\n\n\"Ah, right, of course,\" says your father. He faces each of you in turn, pressing at the nape of each suit's neck until two ports open, then plugging fingers into the ports for a few seconds each. As he's doing this, he explains, \"In the time that we stayed here, our suits were upgraded with translation software that enabled us to understand the alien's speech patterns. It cared little about ours, but wanted us to understand its commands. We actually prototyped such a thing in hardware, but that's been left in Thad's observatory back home. The advantage of this software version is that I can transfer it directly into your suits... and there, it's done. You'll need it, because I'm afraid it's going to be up to you to face Esrrua.\"\n\nPlease select a response:\n\n1) \"I understand. What would you like us to do?\"\n2) \"What? Why? Can't we at least face him together?\"\n3) \"What are you two going to do?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Select an option or 0 to say nothing >> 2\n\n\"The risk is too great, Austin,\" says Mom. \"He's had us under mental control for some time, and if he were to regain it at a crucial moment, you two would be doomed. Besides, we know this fortress, and can take care of some important tasks while you're stopping the experiment. Thad Andrews has to be rescued from his prison, those salt crystals need to be melted so that the bacteria inside can be killed, and we need to prepare the vehicle in the hangar so that we can finally get out of here.\"\n\n\"So here are your tasks,\" says Dad. \"Stop that experiment! Subdue and capture Esrrua and his assistants, if you can. Then meet us in the Hangar on the top level of the fortress -- we'll have the escape vehicle ready.\"\n\nEach of your parents gives you one last hug, then they send you south, down a final transport tube, finally to face the creature behind all this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Space", "response": "[Please press a key to continue]\n\n\"I have lost contact with the simian-hunters,\" said Maerr. \"They are either killed or free.\"\n\nThe hairs rose on Science Master Esrrua's neck, and for the first time, he detected a faint smell of fear on himself. \"No!\" he said. \"Not when the experiment is almost ready! Begin extraction!\"\n\nMaerr keyed in a sequence on his control panel, and said, \"Extraction begun.\" Then his head whipped towards the door, ears at full alert.\n\n\"Outside the door, Science Master Esrrua,\" he said. \"I hear something.\"\n\nEpisode 3:\nLUMINOUS HORIZON\n\nThis is a small, sterile room, about the size of a walk-in closet. The floor here seems to be made of bare rock. You're facing a doorway blocked by a smooth sheet of grey polymer. Behind you is a transport tube entrance.\n\nEmily stands a few feet away from you, looking fierce.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "A smooth sheet of polymer completely fills the doorway to the north. It even seems to have cut into the rock beneath it to create an effective seal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast door", "response": "KER-POW! Lightning arcs from your fingers to the grey polymer barrier, but it is unaffected.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rock", "response": "Unlike the other parts of the fortress, the floor here isn't made of alien polymer. Instead, the walls seem to rest on bare, uneven rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the rock", "response": "You drive your mighty fingers into the stone beneath the door, pulling them back to cut deep grooves into the living rock. You could easily grip the bottom of the door now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lift door", "response": "You squat, reaching into the grooves you've made in the stone floor to grip the polymer sheet's bottom edge. With a deep breath, you unbend your knees and thrust your arms upward. The lab door resists your efforts with incredible power, but you manage to create an aperture large enough for you and Emily to go through. You're not sure how much longer you can hold the door up, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You scamper through the aperture, and Austin wrenches himself to the other side of the door. It slams shut when he lets go of it.\n\nEven though this room is filled with clutter and equipment, it still has about as much open floor space as half a basketball court. A large window occupies much of its west wall, through which you can see another room, where one of the cat-aliens stands before a broad control panel. Byzantine machinery dominates all the other walls, and at the far north end of both rooms, a teleportation curtain shimmers and pulsates. Just behind you, to the south, the unbreakable polymer sheet once again blocks the exit. A monitor window floats in the air, displaying a view of the dilapidated road that winds just west of this fortress. Several clear chambers, one of which is filled with a swirling green cloud, reach to the ceiling.\n\nAustin stands next to you, his eyes taking in everything.\n\nIn the center of the room stands another of the cat-aliens: a humanoid figure, well over seven feet tall and heavily muscled. It whirls to face you, and its oval-slitted eyes glare savagely. The creature bares its teeth, flattens its ears, and drops into a crouch. This can be none other than Esrrua.\n\n\"SO!\" shouts Esrrua imperiously. \"Still more apelings come to plague the progress of science! But you are too late! TOO LATE!\"\n\nHe turns toward the window and points at the control panel. \"Maerr, release the bacteria!\"\n\nTurning back to you, he curls his lip. \"I will not taint my paws with your stink, dirty apelings, when my niarr can destroy you instead!\"\n\n\"DEVOUR THEM!\" he shouts, and the white blob surges forward, long pseudopods writhing at its perimeter!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Zap blob", "response": "KER-POW! Blue lightning flows from your fingertips into the niarr, and for a moment, the creature grows rigid, processing the incredible energy of your blast. Then it swells, expanding to almost double its previous size. The niarr extends its tentacles again, apparently hungrier than ever!\n\nMeanwhile, your brother is pummeling the niarr, and the creature seems to swell with every blow. It's now about quadruple the size it was when you came in.\n\nSimultaneously, Maerr's paws skitter rapidly across the control panel, and a hissing sound fills the air. \"Bacteria released!\" he shouts triumphantly over an intercom, and the green gas roils upwards, disappearing from its chamber. A moment later, the monitor displays a hidden hatch opening in the ground next to the road, and a noxious cloud of viridian vapor spews forth! The cloud expands in all directions, not dissipating but rather multiplying, heading inexorably towards the towns and cities of New Mexico, ground zero for the upcoming worldwide infection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog maerr", "response": "You concentrate, and a thick cloud of grey fog envelopes Maerr. You see the cloud moving frantically, and hear the alien's voice over an intercom, crying, \"Science Master Esrrua, I... I cannot see! I cannot trigger the release sequence!\"\n\n\"NOOOOO!\" screams Esrrua. \"I cannot be thwarted when I am so close! Apeling, I shall kill you myself!\" With this, he springs forward, claws extended and reaching for your face!\n\nMeanwhile, you hear Austin's fist slam into the niarr with a muffled WHUMP! The skysuit's mask doesn't leave you much peripheral vision, but it's enough to tell you that the white mass is growing at an alarming rate, swelling in proportion to the force of your brother's blows. It's now about double the size it was when you came in. So why does he keep hitting it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "The ceiling is low enough that all you could do is hover a foot or so above the ground, so you don't bother.\n\nIn an instant, Esrrua is upon you, his claws slashing through the skysuit to tear open your throat with unerring precision. Consciousness flows out of you as fast as the blood gushes from your jugular vein. Your last sight is of Austin looking with horror at your prone form and screaming, \"NO!\"\n\nYour brother's fists fly at your alien assassin... the bloated niarr looms to consume him... blackness descends.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Zap esrrua", "response": "You extend both your hands, and KER-POW! A huge blast of lightning jumps from your fingers, hitting Esrrua directly in the chest! His body flies backwards, its fur all stood on end, and lands in a heap just short of the teleportation curtain, still convulsing.\n\nSimultaneously, your brother directs a fierce karate kick at the niarr, and it lands with a booming WHUMP! Once again, the creature absorbs his blow, expanding like a water balloon hooked to a firehose! The niarr now takes up almost half the room, and it practically vibrates with absorbed energy. A thousand pseudopods shoot out from its edges, grasping at him!\n\nYou hear an anguished, inarticulate scream over the intercom, and the sound of shattering glass. The cloud of fog is on the move, flowing through the broken window, and a screeching voice emerges from within it. \"I cannot see you, murdering simians, but your stench is unmistakable!\"\n\n\"Okay, so powersuit fabric isn't very breathable!\" shouts Austin.\n\nThen the cloud charges at you, covering the distance with alarming speed!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog cloud", "response": "(cloud of fog)\nYou concentrate on fogging cloud of fog, but nothing happens.\n\nSimultaneously, your brother directs a fierce karate kick at the niarr, and it lands with a booming WHUMP! Once again, the creature absorbs his blow! The thing is standing still, vibrating, obscuring your view of the entire room now, all of its attention apparently focused on keeping itself intact.\n\nWith astonishing speed, Maerr's claws reach your face. You feel lacerating pain as your flesh splits and tears, you hear your brother's distant shouts, and quickly enough, you slip into blessed unconsciousness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Zap blob", "response": "KER-POW! Blue lightning flows from your fingertips into the niarr, and for a moment, the creature grows rigid, processing the incredible energy of your blast. Then it swells, to fill almost the whole room! The thing is standing still, vibrating, all of its attention apparently focused on keeping itself intact.\n\nWHAM! Austin's fist hurtles into the cloud and connects with Maerr's chest! The alien's body flies out the back of the fog cloud, dispersing the vapor and skidding backwards to land alongside Esrrua.\n\nKA-BLAMMO!\n\nThe explosion was so sudden, so overwhelming that there was no time to protect yourself, no time for anything but flying backwards into the wall. When the blackness in your head lifts, the room is much changed.\n\nThe niarr is gone, though the walls are smeared with white goo and a sour smell hangs in the air. Gone as well are Esrrua and Maerr, apparently blown through the teleportation curtain shortly before it, too, disappeared. And now the room itself seems to be unraveling, while a series of yowls repeat in the air, conveniently translated by the software in your suit:\n\n\"Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence commenced... Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence commenced...\"\n\nAll of the equipment that was in this room is gone, and even the walls themselves seem to be rapidly dissolving, melting away before your eyes like film over a candle. Chunks of dirt and large rocks are falling through the rapidly opening holes, and the room seems to be a hair's breadth from collapsing outright!\n\nOne beneficial side-effect of the ongoing room-erasure is that the passage to the south has reopened, and a lucky thing, too, since that's the only way out of here.\n\nAustin is beside you, looking deeply alarmed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Austin follows you.\n\nHoles are appearing in the walls of this room, but it's still more or less retaining its shape for the moment. The doorway to the north is blocked by thousands of tons of caved-in earth, but the transport tube is unscathed, at least for now.\n\nAustin is running right behind you.\n\nThe walls continue to dissolve before your eyes, and that eerily calm alien voice keeps advising you:\n\n\"Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues... Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the tube", "response": "You step into the tube, and there is a WHOOSH of air with the sensation of upward motion; you step out into new surroundings.\n\nYou were last in this corridor on your way to battle Esrrua, and now it is unraveling along with the rest of the fortress. The dissolution has begin with the transport tube, which pretty much disappeared the moment you stepped out of it, and the walls continue to eat themselves with each passing moment! The corridor continues north, at least for the moment.\n\nAustin steps out of the tube a second behind you.\n\nThe walls continue to dissolve before your eyes, and that eerily calm alien voice keeps advising you:\n\n\"Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues... Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Austin follows you.\n\nThe corridor has almost collapsed already -- the only things keeping the ceiling from caving in are the pipes above you, which have bowed to an alarming degree, dipping to less than a foot above your head. Dirt and rocks fall between them in a constant rain. The south end of the corridor has caved in completely. Even worse, a huge boulder has rolled into the corridor, blocking your path completely!\n\nAustin is running right behind you.\n\nAn enormous piece of rocky debris fills the corridor.\n\nThe walls continue to dissolve before your eyes, and that eerily calm alien voice keeps advising you:\n\n\"Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues... Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "FDKJFKD", "response": "Enter saved game to store: Ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hit debris", "response": "SMASH! With a mighty blow, you shatter the great rock into gravel! With the boulder gone, you can see that as the walls continue to unravel, the barrier to the east has melted away. A northern route into unknown territory is also open.\n\nThe room is just seconds away from collapsing!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nLike the rest of the fortress, this corridor is about to cease existing. The self-consumption virus is spreading from the south, and coming closer and closer to the transportation tube at the north end of the corridor. Rubble blocks the path south, and what looks like it might have been another tube on the west wall, so that remaining tube is looking like your best and only option.\n\nEmily is flying right behind you.\n\nThe walls continue to dissolve before your eyes, and that eerily calm alien voice keeps advising you:\n\n\"Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues... Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the tube", "response": "You step into the tube, and there is a WHOOSH of air with the sensation of upward motion; you step out into new surroundings.\n\nThe decay has advanced considerably around you, and the entire fortress looks on the verge of disintegration. Collapsed ceilings block the way west and south, and the ongoing cave-in continues to force you eastwards. The walls keep liquefying, and the ceiling here is shuddering unsteadily.\n\nEmily floats out of the tube a second behind you.\n\nThe walls continue to dissolve before your eyes, and that eerily calm alien voice keeps advising you:\n\n\"Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues... Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Emily follows you.\n\nAlarming holes keep blooming in the walls, and the ceiling sways drunkenly. An archway offers escape to the south.\n\nEmily is flying right behind you.\n\nAn archway leads south into shadow.\n\nThe walls continue to dissolve before your eyes, and that eerily calm alien voice keeps advising you:\n\n\"Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues... Critical state reached... Self-consumption sequence continues...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You and Emily dash through the archway as the room falls apart behind you!\n\nThe fortress is disintegrating all around you, but the ceiling here is open, and the pipe-covered vehicle hovers about eight feet off the ground. The vehicle's floor is transparent, and through it you can see Mom and Dad, along with an older man who must be Thaddeus Andrews, urging you to enter via a large hatch. A quick jump and you're in, with Emily swooping right behind you. The hatch closes, Dad manipulates an alien device, and the vehicle rises higher. Through its floor, you can see the last of the fortress consume itself into nonexistence, with only a sinkhole in the desert to suggest anything of Earth's first contact with an extraterrestrial species.\n\n\"Austin!\" says Emily, grabbing your arm, \"We did it! We found Mom and Dad, and basically saved the world in the process! The freaking world, Austin! We are superheroes! We are a family of superheroes, and my GOD, we rock!\"\n\nYeah. Saved the world. You did, didn't you?\n\nLife is going to be a whole lot different now. That's the thought that keeps going through your head as you sail westward, in an alien vehicle, with your super-powered family, into the luminous horizon.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "fantasy", "limited verbs", "music", "ShuffleComp" ]

[ 4, 3, 6, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Your interpreter doesn't support volume control.\nYour interpreter doesn't support volume control.\nYour interpreter doesn't support sound reproduction.\nYour interpreter doesn't support sound reproduction.\nLight My Way Home\n\nVast metal towers stand in silhouette against the stars, backlit by the full moon. Their skeletal arms hold dozens of cables aloft between them, a dozen lines running across the sky like a great celestial loom. You feel energy play across them overhead. Little stands below. Carefully pruned vegetation, low to the ground, covers the undeveloped land beneath the towers.\n\nThere's a stump here, on which sits an old portable radio.\n\nSuburban housing stands in neat rows to the North and South. The flat micro-savannah of the corridor gives way to a tall field of grain to the East, and to the West is a small riverside park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You don't know what you look like. You can't seem to see yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stump", "response": "Pitted and cracked, this stump is older than many of the living trees nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the radio", "response": "An old radio with an empty cassette deck. It seems to be switched on, but the battery compartment on the back is missing its cover and its batteries as well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tower", "response": "The cable towers loom above, marking the path of the hydroelectric company's power corridor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the moon", "response": "The moon is bright tonight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vegetation", "response": "Patches of grass and vegetation grow in sparse clumps throughout the cleared space of the Hydro Corridor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The grain stalks stand over a meter tall, allowing you only a low vantage point across them. Gentle breezes set the surface of the field rippling like cloth.\n\nThe field ends to the West, leading to an undeveloped section of the corridor. Further to the East you see a cluster of containers and haulage equipment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the grain", "response": "Tall stalks of grain, waving gently in the breeze. You can barely see over them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the grain", "response": "(first taking the grain)\nYou can't touch it and you're not sure why.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The grassy ground marking the hydro corridor ends abruptly at a large gravel lot within a copse of thick trees that blot out the sky. A forklift stands in the middle of the lot as though abandoned in the middle of its use. Near it is a standing floodlight. Miniature warehouses line the North side of the corridor. The trees have been cleared to the South, forming a field with several hay bales in a row. To the East, half a dozen sets of train tracks cluster together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the forklift", "response": "The forklift stands alone and still.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hay", "response": "Cylindrical bales of hay.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trees", "response": "The trees here are taller than elsewhere in the corridor, blotting out the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the floodlight", "response": "A pair of bright halogen lights on a stand. It doesn't appear to be plugged in.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You approach the tracks, but the power running through them is overwhelming. You find yourself having to turn away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the trees", "response": "You'd rather stay out here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Small, makeshift warehouses stand here in a row. Most are little more than adapted shipping containers, each with heavy steel doors.\n\nA storage unit, older and larger than the other units is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine unit", "response": "This storage unit seems older, heavier, and a bit larger than the others here. Instead of doors that swing open, the unit has a retracting shutter controlled by a switch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the switch", "response": "An electrical shutter controlled by a switch that powers it. You feel as though you can't touch the switch, but you think you could\npower the shutter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Power switch", "response": "You feed energy to the shutter, and it flies open with a loud rattle.\n\nA huddled figure, crouched against the inside wall of the container, looks up with surprise as the shutter opens. The shutter squeals as it retracts fully, a loud buzz coming from the device.\n\nThe person unfolds themself from their crouched position and stands slowly. You watch them, entranced. They are the most beautiful person you have ever seen.\n\nAppearing slightly dazed, the beautiful person looks around the area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the person", "response": "The most beautiful person you have ever seen.\n\nThe beautiful person flicks the switch on the inside of the shipping container and frowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the container", "response": "You'd rather stay out here.\n\nThe beautiful person scans the area, brow knit.\n\nA beautiful person wanders South, toward the gravel lot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The grassy ground marking the hydro corridor ends abruptly at a large gravel lot within a copse of thick trees that blot out the sky. A forklift stands in the middle of the lot as though abandoned in the middle of its use. Near it is a standing floodlight. Miniature warehouses line the North side of the corridor. The trees have been cleared to the South, forming a field with several hay bales in a row. To the East, half a dozen sets of train tracks cluster together.\n\nYou can see a beautiful person here.\n\nThe beautiful person squints in the darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Power floodlight", "response": "You feel the energy dissipate from the shutter.\n\nThe floodlight flares to life.\nThe beautiful person blinks, momentarily blinded by the floodlight.\n\nAfter a moment, they regain their bearings and walk West, through the field of grain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The grain stalks stand over a meter tall, allowing you only a low vantage point across them. Gentle breezes set the surface of the field rippling like cloth.\n\nThe field ends to the West, leading to an undeveloped section of the corridor. Further to the East you see a cluster of containers and haulage equipment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Vast metal towers stand in silhouette against the stars, backlit by the full moon. Their skeletal arms hold dozens of cables aloft between them, a dozen lines running across the sky like a great celestial loom. You feel energy play across them overhead. Little stands below. Carefully pruned vegetation, low to the ground, covers the undeveloped land beneath the towers.\n\nThere's a stump here, on which sits an old portable radio.\n\nSuburban housing stands in neat rows to the North and South. The flat micro-savannah of the corridor gives way to a tall field of grain to the East, and to the West is a small riverside park.\n\nYou can see a beautiful person here.\n\nThe beautiful person is playing with the radio, a frown marring their perfect face. They turn the radio off and on several times, sigh, and place the radio back on the stump. They stand and walk South, toward a ruined house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Power radio", "response": "You feel the energy dissipate from the floodlight.\n\nThe radio crackles to life, crooning a quiet ballad.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rows of houses, similar but not the same, line the edge of the corridor. Amidst the intact houses, one ruin stands out.\n\nLittle more than a burned-out husk, what was once a house is now little more than a foundation and debris, any furniture reduced to a lump of ash. A tall room fan lies on its side here.\n\nThe Hydro Corridor is to the North.\n\nYou can see a beautiful person here.\n\nAs you approach, you see the beautiful person lift the fan gingerly from the ground and set it upright. They dust off their hands, sigh, and lean on the top of the fan.\n\nThe beautiful person perks up, hearing a faint sound in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe beautiful person squints, trying to figure out whether the sound was real or imagined.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe beautiful person turns toward the North.\n\nA beautiful person walks North toward the sound of the music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Vast metal towers stand in silhouette against the stars, backlit by the full moon. Their skeletal arms hold dozens of cables aloft between them, a dozen lines running across the sky like a great celestial loom. You feel energy play across them overhead. Little stands below. Carefully pruned vegetation, low to the ground, covers the undeveloped land beneath the towers.\n\nThere's a stump here, on which sits an old portable radio. The radio plays a quiet tune.\n\nSuburban housing stands in neat rows to the North and South. The flat micro-savannah of the corridor gives way to a tall field of grain to the East, and to the West is a small riverside park.\n\nYou can see a beautiful person here.\n\nThe beautiful person is crouched on the stump next to the radio. They take deep breaths, eyes closed, as they listen to the music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the person", "response": "The most beautiful person you have ever seen.\n\nThe beautiful person is crouched on the stump next to the radio. They take deep breaths, eyes closed, as they listen to the music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe beautiful person is crouched on the stump next to the radio. They take deep breaths, eyes closed, as they listen to the music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the moon", "response": "The moon is obscured by thick foliage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This field is nearly empty, save for a few scattered hay bales.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You fear getting lost if you go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Rows of houses, similar but not the same, line the edge of the corridor.\n\nThe Hydro Corridor is to the South.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rows of houses, similar but not the same, line the edge of the corridor. Amidst the intact houses, one ruin stands out.\n\nLittle more than a burned-out husk, what was once a house is now little more than a foundation and debris, any furniture reduced to a lump of ash. A tall room fan stands here.\n\nThe Hydro Corridor is to the North.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Power fan", "response": "You feel the energy dissipate from the radio.\n\nUpright and pointed directly at the ash-covered hulk, the fan immediately kicks up a storm of gray particulate.\n\nAfter only a few moments, most of the ash is gone. An end table is revealed, on which sits a framed photo and a lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine photo", "response": "A framed photo. One of the people in the photo is the beautiful person you found. The other is familiar, but you don't know that you know them.\n\nThe photo makes you feel strange.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Power lamp", "response": "You feel the energy dissipate from the fan.\nThe fan stops blowing, its blades winding down to a gradual stop.\nThe lamp flares to life, illuminating the photo.\nA beautiful person returns from the North.\n\nThe beautiful person sees that the lamp has come on and walks to the end table. They bend down slightly and pick up the framed photo. They use their sleeve to wipe some of the ash from the surface. They look at the photo for several moments.\n\nCovering their face with one hand, they hurry North.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Vast metal towers stand in silhouette against the stars, backlit by the full moon. Their skeletal arms hold dozens of cables aloft between them, a dozen lines running across the sky like a great celestial loom. You feel energy play across them overhead. Little stands below. Carefully pruned vegetation, low to the ground, covers the undeveloped land beneath the towers.\n\nThere's a stump here, on which sits an old portable radio.\n\nSuburban housing stands in neat rows to the North and South. The flat micro-savannah of the corridor gives way to a tall field of grain to the East, and to the West is a small riverside park.\n\nYou can see a beautiful person here.\n\nThe most beautiful person you have ever seen weeps silently, clutching a photo to their chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Power radio", "response": "You feel the energy dissipate from the lamp.\n\nThe radio crackles to life, crooning a quiet ballad.\nThe most beautiful person you have ever seen weeps silently, clutching a photo to their chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the photo", "response": "A framed photo. One of the people in the photo is the beautiful person you found. The other is familiar, but you don't know that you know them.\n\nThe photo makes you feel strange.\n\nThe most beautiful person you have ever seen weeps silently, clutching a photo to their chest.\n\nA beautiful person walks away to the West.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "At the feet of the cable-bearing towers stands a little park, cleared grass leading to the bank of a river. The river is so slow-moving as to seem still, its glassy surface reflecting the moon.\n\nThe cables of the hydro corridor stretch West over the water, and East toward a clearing.\n\nYou can see a beautiful person here.\n\nThe beautiful person turns their tear-streaked face up toward the moon, still clutching the photo to their chest, and closes their eyes.\n\nYou feel yourself grow lighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Power person", "response": "You reach out to a beautiful person, but you receive no response to your energy.\n\nYou feel yourself grow lighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the river", "response": "A still, glassy expanse of water.\n\nYou feel yourself grow lighter.\n\nThe most beautiful person you have ever seen gently pulls the photo away from their chest and sets it on the ground, face up. They lean back to lie on the ground and take a deep breath, which they let out slowly.\nYou feel yourself let go.\nYour interpreter doesn't support sound stopping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You cannot cross the water.\n\nYou feel yourself grow lighter.\n\nThe most beautiful person you have ever seen gently pulls the photo away from their chest and sets it on the ground, face up. They lean back to lie on the ground and take a deep breath, which they let out slowly.\nYou feel yourself let go.\nYour interpreter doesn't support sound stopping.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Literary", "Children's", "Humor" ]

[ "Adrift competition 2002", "cover art", "fairy tale", "female protagonist", "first person", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2002" ]

[ 0, 6, 4, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "ADRIFT \nVisit J. J. Guest's website at: www.groundchuck.co.uk\nInform port by ralphmerridew (ralphmerridew@gmail.com)\nInform version 1.0, April 2006\nType ZOOM IN, ZOOM OUT, or ZOOM AWAY to toggle automapping. (Do not use with Gargoyle due to bugs.)\n\nMan, what a party! That was a night to remember - actually it'll be a miracle if I remember it at all tomorrow! Oh, by the way, I'm Goldilocks. I'm a nineteen year old blonde bombshell and I'm on my way back from yet another crazy art school party. It's about five AM and the sun's already up, as are the birds, who are doing their level best to aggravate my hangover with their bloody singing! I could really use something to eat and somewhere to sleep off this hangover, but something tells me I shouldn't have taken this shortcut through the forest. I have a really baaad feeling about it...\nGoldilocks is a FOX!\n\nA large wooden sign informs me that I'm in the Enchanted Forest. What it doesn't tell me is how the hell I get out! Everywhere I look there are trees, trees, trees. This place definately has a 'tree' theme going. A clearly marked path leads south and west, whilst in every other direction are, well, trees.\nAn old pedlar is sitting on a log here, tending to his bunions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pedlar", "response": "He looks distictly shifty - he'd look more at home on a market stall in Hackney Wick than wandering around an enchanted forest.\nThe pedlar is carrying a battered suitcase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 5:04 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pedlar about the wares", "response": "'Beans! Get your magic beans! Only one cow a packet!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pedlar about the cow", "response": "'That's right love, just one cow for a whole packet. Bargain.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pedlar about the beans", "response": "'That's right love, magic, they are. Not your ordinary beans, these.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "I'm about 5' 10\", 19 years old with stripey tights and Doc Martens, and I'm named after my really cool strawberry blonde dreadlocks. Basically I'm a Fox, but you knew that already.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A large wooden sign informs me that I'm in the Enchanted Forest. What it doesn't tell me is how the hell I get out! Everywhere I look there are trees, trees, trees. This place definately has a 'tree' theme going. A clearly marked path leads south and west, whilst in every other direction are, well, trees.\nAn old pedlar is sitting on a log here, tending to his bunions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I'm on a path winding through the Enchanted Forest. The path winds its way from the north towards the west. In every other direction there are dark, sinister looking trees that wave their branches at me in an anthropomorphic kind of way. Ooh, I'm soooo scared!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave", "response": "I wave, feeling foolish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "I don't see much point in doing that. Besides, I'd only ladder my tights!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I'm wandering in the forest lost and completely disorientated! Everywhere I look there are strange, twisted trees, and what's more they all look exactly the same! I'm beginning to think it was a really bad idea to leave the path...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "I don't see much point in doing that. Besides, I'd only ladder my tights!\n\nCan't help feeling I'm being watched...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "My singing is abominable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "I smell nothing unexpected.\n\nUh-oh - what's that? I could have sworn I saw a pair of big, yellow eyes staring at me through the leaves...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I'm walking in a trackless wilderness of tall, straight trees whose mighty trunks remind me of the time I got lost among the Axminsters at CarpetWorld aged six. I can go in just about any direction, but they all look the same to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "I'm on a path winding through the Enchanted Forest. The path winds its way from the north towards the west. In every other direction there are dark, sinister looking trees that wave their branches at me in an anthropomorphic kind of way. Ooh, I'm soooo scared!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As I head off along the path a pathetic, mangey looking wolf jumps out from behind a bush and slobbers at me in what he probably hopes is a menacing way.\n'I am the Big Bad Wolf!' says he. Then, after an awkward pause he\nadds 'well, what are you waiting for? Aren't you going to ask me the way to Grandma's house?' He looks at me quizzically for a moment and then slaps his forehead.\n'My humblest apologies!' he says. 'You are not the young woman I\nseek. She of the crimson shawl must needs be elsewhere!' He darts back into the forest.\n\nI'm at a fork in the path. Not the kind of fork you eat with, the sort where the path forks; you know, like a fork. To the north the path widens into a clearing. To the west it disappears into the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pedlar about Wolf", "response": "'Lots of wolves around here, love. Got to be careful, you have. Nearly got eaten by one myself, I did. But see, I'm clever. Canny. Outsmarted him, love. They're none too bright, your average wolf.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pedlar about the beans", "response": "'That's right love, magic, they are. Not your ordinary beans, these.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pedlar about the cow", "response": "'That's right love, just one cow for a whole packet. Bargain.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pedlar about the tree", "response": "'Do you know what? I hadn't even noticed them. Want to buy some beans?'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I'm pretty sure that's the direction I came from when I entered the forest, so let's go a different way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I'm at a fork in the path. Not the kind of fork you eat with, the sort where the path forks; you know, like a fork. To the north the path widens into a clearing. To the west it disappears into the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "I'm in a clearing. There is a teeny tiny cottage here complete with a thatched roof and leaded windows. It's just like something out of a fairy tale, funnily enough, except for the large hand-painted sign designed to deter trespassers. Just to the north is the front porch. A little path lined by rows of white-painted stones leads around the side of the house to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the sign", "response": "Trespassers will be prostrate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cottage", "response": "Talk about bijou! It's not much bigger than a shoebox. There's a little chimney on the roof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stones", "response": "A crazy-paving path that leads around the side of the house towards a small garden. It's lined by rows of large stones that have for some reason been painted white. Somebody's been watching too many of those gardening programmes on TV.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take stones", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "I'm in a little garden alongside the cottage. There's a vegetable plot in a sunny spot by the wall and on the other side of the garden a somewhat neglected ornamental pond. There's obviously been some attempt at landscaping but the effect is less Capability Brown and more incapable bruin. A ramshackle potting shed completes the image of horticultural incompetence. To the north, an overgrown pergola leads into a meadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plot", "response": "It's in a sunny spot by the side of the cottage. There's a bunch of leaves sticking out of the ground there; weird! Also in the plot is an overripe pumpkin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pond", "response": "The Three Bears' attempt at a 'water feature' is rather small and choked with pond weed. I think I see something small and green moving below the surface!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pumpkin", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine leaves", "response": "Just sticking out of the ground. Wacky. I wonder who put them there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the leaves", "response": "I take hold of the leaves and give them a good yank. Something pops out of the ground in a great shower of earth! There seems to be some kinda root vegetable actually attached to the leaves. Weird; I always thought these things came from tins!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the root", "response": "It's big and lumpy and covered in mud. Do people actually eat these things?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na turnip\nan overripe pumpkin\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pond", "response": "The Three Bears' attempt at a 'water feature' is rather small and choked with pond weed. I think I see something small and green moving below the surface!\n\nThe Three Bears' attempt at a 'water feature' is rather small and choked with pond weed. I think I see something small and green moving below the surface!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink pond", "response": "There's not enough water to swim in.\n\nThere's nothing suitable to drink here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the pond", "response": "Two things: One; the pond is only two feet deep. Two; I'm not swimming in a murky bloody pond. Okay?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the pumpkin", "response": "I think I'll pass on that, thankyou.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pergola", "response": "It leads into a small meadow bounded by a rickety fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the shed", "response": "I'm in the potting shed, a ramshackle structure that was obviously cobbled together in five minutes some idle Sunday afternoon. I didn't know bears had green fingers. In fact I didn't know they had fingers at all. Plant pots of all sizes are scattered about the shed untidily and the whole place is festooned with cobwebs.\nIn the corner is an old metal trunk marked 'FISHING TACKLE.'\n\nI can also see a pair of secateurs and a ratty old paintbrush here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the secateurs", "response": "A pair of pruning clippers, for pruning things I guess. What does pruning have to do with prunes? The pair of secateurs are covered in rust.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "I've seen more hair on a skinhead but at a pinch it's probably still serviceable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trunk", "response": "It's a battered old thing with the words 'FISHING TACKLE' crudely painted on the lid. The old metal trunk is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "I open the trunk. It contains some sticks of dynamite. If this is what Papa Bear thinks of as fishing tackle I dread to think what he uses for hunting - a Sherman tank, perhaps?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at pots", "response": "The plant pots are piled precariously against the wall of the shed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search pots", "response": "I find a trowel and a pair of gardening gloves, which I take.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the pots", "response": "Those are fixed in place.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at dynamite", "response": "There are three sticks, each about six inches long and an inch in diameter. The fuses are extremely short, as though some evil rodent has been nibbling at them!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light dynamite", "response": "I'm sorry, I don't know how to do that without matches. I was in the girl scouts, but they kicked me out after two weeks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "I'm in a small meadow at the back of the cottage, separated from the forest by a rickety fence. In the middle of the meadow is what appears to be a homemade wind turbine! To the south, through the tangled pergola, is the garden.\nDaisy the cow is standing here, chewing disinterestedly on a mouthful of hay.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the turbine", "response": "It appears to be a 5 KW battery-charging turbine made from wood, old tractor parts and a washing machine motor, probably connected to the cottage by an underground cable. See - I'm not just a pretty face! (Though you have to admit, I am pretty.) The sails are not currently moving since the air is completely still.\n\nThere is what appears to be an oil can sitting on a platform near the top of the turbine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get can", "response": "I can't reach it from here! It's all the way up on top of that rickety structure!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb turbine", "response": "There's no way I'm going up there! It's a deathtrap!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Daisy", "response": "Must be the oddest looking cow I've ever seen! She has four knees! I strongly suspect that it might be two men in a suit, but it is to all intents and purposes, a cow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Daisy about the turbine", "response": "\"Mooooo!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Daisy, to go south", "response": "Daisy the cow has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the turnip to Daisy", "response": "Daisy jumps up and down excitedly when she sees the turnip. I don't think I've ever seen a cow do that before!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull Daisy", "response": "That would be less than courteous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the turnip to Daisy", "response": "Daisy gobbles down the turnip excitedly before sidling over to me and nuzzling my chest. I get impression she thinks I've got more turnips hidden somewhere about my person. I can't imagine where she gets that idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I'm in a little garden alongside the cottage. There's a vegetable plot in a sunny spot by the wall and on the other side of the garden a somewhat neglected ornamental pond. There's obviously been some attempt at landscaping but the effect is less Capability Brown and more incapable bruin. A ramshackle potting shed completes the image of horticultural incompetence. To the north, an overgrown pergola leads into a meadow.\nDaisy the cow walks towards me from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I can't go in that direction, but I can move north, east and in.\n\nDaisy curtsies towards some imaginary audience.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm in a clearing. There is a teeny tiny cottage here complete with a thatched roof and leaded windows. It's just like something out of a fairy tale, funnily enough, except for the large hand-painted sign designed to deter trespassers. Just to the north is the front porch. A little path lined by rows of white-painted stones leads around the side of the house to the west.\nDaisy the cow walks towards me from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I can't go in that direction, but I can move north, south and west.\n\nDaisy curtsies towards some imaginary audience.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I'm at a fork in the path. Not the kind of fork you eat with, the sort where the path forks; you know, like a fork. To the north the path widens into a clearing. To the west it disappears into the forest. Daisy the cow walks towards me from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I'm lost in the forest, surrounded on all sides by dense foliage. I knew it was a bad idea to stray from the path! I can go in any direction, but I haven't a clue which is the right one!\n\nFrom somewhere comes the blood-curdling howl of a wolf...\nDaisy the cow walks towards me from elsewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm on a path winding through the Enchanted Forest. The path winds its way from the north towards the west. In every other direction there are dark, sinister looking trees that wave their branches at me in an anthropomorphic kind of way. Ooh, I'm soooo scared!\nDaisy the cow walks towards me from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A large wooden sign informs me that I'm in the Enchanted Forest. What it doesn't tell me is how the hell I get out! Everywhere I look there are trees, trees, trees. This place definately has a 'tree' theme going. A clearly marked path leads south and west, whilst in every other direction are, well, trees.\nAn old pedlar is sitting on a log here, tending to his bunions.\nDaisy the cow walks towards me from the south.\n\n'Ah, now there's a lovely specimen!' says the Pedlar, getting up from his log and feeling Daisy's knees. He seems satisfied. 'all present and correct! Here you go love - you'll be cured in no time!' He opens his suitcase and hands me a small packet, then leads Daisy off into the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the packet", "response": "It's a packet of magic beans. There are some instructions written on the back of the packet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the packet", "response": "'For a giant beanstalk, plant bean in a sunny spot and water well. As a cure for non-rabbit-head-itis, take one bean daily, preferably with a meal. If symptoms persist, consult your local wizard. BEST BEFORE: MARCH 1976'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "I'm about 5' 10\", 19 years old with stripey tights and Doc Martens, and I'm named after my really cool strawberry blonde dreadlocks. Basically I'm a Fox, but you knew that already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door is closed. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\n\nI can also see a milkbottle (in which is a crumpled note) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "'Dear Snookums, three pints tomorrow please - one regular, one skimmed and one semi-skimmed. From your little Fuzzy-wuzzy'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dustbin", "response": "An environmentally sound way of disposing of all the objects I'm finished with. The battered old dustbin is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bottle in the dustbin", "response": "I put the empty milkbottle into the battered old dustbin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the packet", "response": "I open the small packet, revealing a magic bean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the bean", "response": "I'd have to be holding it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the bean", "response": "I have a feeling that non-rabbit-head-itis is an affliction that mainly affects rabbits. I'm not sure what kind of effect the bean would have on a human being. Are you sure you want me to go through with this?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bottle", "response": "Okay, I filled the bottle with water from the pond. Yeeurrggh! My hand is covered in pondslime now! Thanks a lot!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Plant bean", "response": "Okay, I planted it in the vegetable plot. Nothing seems to be happening. So much for the \"magic.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the bean", "response": "(the bottle of water on the magic bean)\nOkay, I watered the magic bean. After a few moments there is a low rumble from underground. The ground begins to shake violently...\n\nAaah! Something shot out of the ground and knocked me flying! I'm lying spreadeagled on the ground beneath this MASSIVE beanstalk! Well, I say massive, actually it stops abruptly just above the roof of the cottage.\n\nDamn, I seem to have dropped all my stuff...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "broken bottle: Taken.\noverripe pumpkin: Taken.\npair of secateurs: Taken.\nratty old paintbrush: Taken.\nsome sticks of dynamite: Taken.\ntrowel: Taken.\npair of gardening gloves: Taken.\nsmall packet: Taken.\ncrumpled note: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb beanstalk", "response": "If Jack can do it, so can Goldilocks!\nAt the top of the beanstalk\nI'm at the top of the beanstalk. I was under the impression that these giant beanstalks all had castles at the top of them, but not this scrawny specimen. However I can almost touch the roof of the cottage from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the roof", "response": "There's a little chimney stack attached to which is a TV aerial. The roof is a little too high for me to reach.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "I'm at the top of the beanstalk. I was under the impression that these giant beanstalks all had castles at the top of them, but not this scrawny specimen. However I can almost touch the roof of the cottage from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Okay... Oof! Fortunately for you I had a soft landing on the thatched roof of the cottage...\nOn the roof\nI'm perched precariously on the roof of the cottage, trying desperately not to look down. There is a chimney here attached to which is a TV aerial. It kind of spoils the chocolate box look of the place if you know what I mean. The top of the beanstalk can be seen poking up above the roofline.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine aerial", "response": "It looks a little out of place on such a picturesque little cottage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "That's hardly portable.\n\nThat's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it", "response": "Okay - that should improve the picture!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the chimney", "response": "Okay here goes... Wheee! I slid right down the chimney and out of the fireplace! That was fun. Can I do it again?\nIn the kitchen\nI am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\n\nOn the dining table are a spoon, a large bowl of hot porridge, a medium-sized bowl of cold porridge and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dresser", "response": "It's an olde worlde pine number. Looks like it's seen quite a bit of use over the years. The kitchen dresser is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "I open the kitchen dresser, revealing a gigantic bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gigantic bowl", "response": "An earthenware bowl with the word \"GRAMPA\" glazed on it. It's bigger than the large and medium bowls put together. The gigantic bowl is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gigantic bowl", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour large into gigantic", "response": "(the large bowl into the gigantic bowl)\nlarge quantity of hot porridge: I pour the large quantity of hot porridge into the gigantic bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the medium into gigantic", "response": "(the medium-sized bowl into the gigantic bowl)\nmedium quantity of cold porridge: Okay, I poured the cold porridge and the hot porridge into the gigantic bowl. Now I have one gigantic bowl of JUST-RIGHT porridge! Now why didn't the Three Bears think of that? I guess I must be smarter than the average bear!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at tiny", "response": "Which do you mean, the tiny little bowl or the tiny quantity of just-right porridge?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "I am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "I'm in the pantry, a small claustrophobic room which smells faintly of cinammon, honey and the mouse droppings that are liberally sprinkled across the tiled floor. There is an upright freezer in the corner and some sturdy shelves stacked high with box after box of McScottie's porridge oats. The kitchen lies to the south.\n\nOn the shelf is a matchbox.\n\nOver in the corner of the pantry, underneath the shelves is a mousetrap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the matchbox", "response": "Goldilocks and the Three Bears; the sad tale of a kleptomaniac who went too far and collapsed under the weight of her own inventory. Taken!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the oats", "response": "The bears must spend a fortune on porridge oats - there must be three hundred cartons here! I wonder if they save the coupons?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mousetrap", "response": "A simple little gadget designed to deliver swift and painless death to harmless little rodents. There's a dead mouse in it right now. He seems to have been lured there by a large wedge of cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the mousetrap", "response": "Fine, fine, no problem - I'll just balance it on top of my head. What did your last slave die of?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the freezer", "response": "I open the freezer, revealing a packet of frozen pork chops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chops", "response": "There are three pork chops in the packet. Why am I not surprised?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "I'm in the pantry, a small claustrophobic room which smells faintly of cinammon, honey and the mouse droppings that are liberally sprinkled across the tiled floor. There is an upright freezer in the corner and some sturdy shelves stacked high with box after box of McScottie's porridge oats. The kitchen lies to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelves", "response": "One of the bears is obviously into DIY.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pork", "response": "I already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na wedge of cheese\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl of just-right porridge\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cheese", "response": "It's stale and hard as a rock!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "My first impression upon entering the entrance hall of the Three Bears' cottage is of hundreds of eyes staring glassily down at me from every corner. Virtually every forest creature from the tiniest shrew to the largest moose is represented in a macabre collection of hunting trophies. And not just forest creatures either; I'd swear that some of these heads are human! On one wall is a full length portrait of the bear clan. A narrow staircase leads upwards, and there are doors to the north and west. Completing the morbid ambiance is a motheaten bearskin rug.\n\n'Ding-Dong!' The doorbell rings. A booming voice can be heard from the direction of the front door: 'Little pigs, little pigs, LET ME IN, or I'll huff and I'll puff and I'll BLOW YOUR HOUSE IN!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "I open the door a tiny crack. As I do so, the mangy looking wolf I encountered on the path barges into the hall, his beady eyes darting this way and that.\n'I'm going to eat you little piggies!' he snarls. 'Don't worry, it won't hurt a bit.' Then he notices me and his expression turns to one of bewilderment. 'My dear girl,' he says 'we really must stop meeting like this. It is not you I seek, but the Three Little Pigs. I waited two whole weeks for Little Red Riding Hood, after devouring her grandmother who was exceedingly tough and chewy and quite frankly I have had enough of the taste of humans. Go tell those snivelling pigs it's breakfast time!!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the pork to Wolf", "response": "'Here you go, Wolfie!' I say, shoving the pork chops under his quivering nose. He recoils in amateur-dramatic horror.\n'Cretinous child!' He roars, 'I can't possibly eat those! Do I look like an arctic fox? Am I similar in appearance to a polar bear? Nay, I am a wolf! A wily wanderer of the woodlands! Were I to attempt to eat those my delicate jaws would shatter like glass! Take them away, and don't bring them back until they're medium rare!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "'Now then,' says the wolf, 'if you've quite finished interrogating me, I shall be off in search of those elusive ungulates.'\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Three chairs are arranged around a small coffee table; a large chair, a medium-sized chair and a tiny little chair.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the copy", "response": "All the latest gossip on the Fairyland royal family. Let's see; \"Who's going to be at the Royal Ball?\" Hmm. \"How to get the Rapunzel look.\" Ho hum. Wait, what's this; \"It's the latest craze that's sweeping the nation - the must-have toy that every real princess won't want to be without. Golden Balls have become the bestselling plaything at Geppetto's toy superstore...\" Oh, please - what's a princess going to do with a ball made of solid gold - she'd only drop it in a pond or something!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examinthe knick-knacks", "response": "Oh, you know, the usual things - glass animals, plaster models of peeing cherubs; the sort of things I would take to a car-boot sale rather than bring back from one. They're of no interest to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You gethe knick-knacks", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chair", "response": "Which do you mean, the large chair, the medium-sized chair or the tiny little chair?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Large", "response": "It's a huge overstuffed leather affair covered with leather buttons. It looks well worn, as though the person it belongs to has nothing better to do than sit on a horrible hard chair all day. A filthy antimacassar is draped over the back of the chair.\n\nOne of the buttons on the arm looks slightly different from the others...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the antimacassar", "response": "A nasty, frilly lacy thing that old people drape over the backs of chairs for no good reason. It's old and grubby and is embroidered with the initials P.B. There's something underneath it...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move it", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "Bloody hell! There are electrodes concealed underneath it! Papa Bear must be a little tetchy about other people using his chair - he's wired it up to the mains! There's a cable connected to the electrodes which presumably supplies the juice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the antimacassar", "response": "I already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cable", "response": "I guess Papa Bear's a bit touchy about other people sitting in his chair! A cable attached to the electrodes disappears into the back of the chair. I think it must supply the power to those electrodes!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the medium chair", "response": "It's a disgusting shade of pink with orange flowers but it looks really comfortable! If someone really heavy sat on that they'd sink without trace!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tiny chair", "response": "A small self-assembly chair of Swedish design that evokes the wholesome, healthy lifestyle of the Scandinavian people. On the bottom it says 'Made in China.'", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "From its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Three chairs are arranged around a small coffee table; a large chair, a medium-sized chair and a tiny little chair.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is open, but a strong draught threatens to blow it shut at any moment. Completing the morbid ambiance is a motheaten bearskin rug.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rug", "response": "A slightly motheaten pelt with wildly staring glass eyes, previously worn by Grampa bear I presume. Waste not want not, I suppose, but kind of icky all the same. Someone has rather creatively shaved the word 'welcome' on his back. I wonder if they waited until after he was dead...?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the rug", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rug", "response": "I pick up the bearskin rug. Oh, wow, there's a trapdoor hidden underneath the rug! What a stupid place to put it - right in front of the front door. Someone could have a nasty accident if they didn't know it was there!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trapdoor", "response": "I open the trapdoor. A set of rickety wooden stairs lead down into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is open, but a strong draught threatens to blow it shut at any moment. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear rug", "response": "I put on the bearskin rug.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a huge bed. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "It affords a view of the clearing in front of the house. The window is painted shut and doesn't look as though it's been opened in years. There's a tiny point of light flitting about outside the window!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light", "response": "What do you want to light?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "Generations of careless decorators have repeatedly painted over the catch making it impossible to turn. No matter how hard I try I can't open it with my bare hands!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window with the trowel", "response": "Do you want me to break a nail or something?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sleeping Beauty", "response": "She's sprawled across Baby Bear's bed, fast asleep and still wearing her party dress. Drunk, I shouldn't wonder. Oi! Beauty! This is my fairytale! Hoppit!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake her", "response": "I shake her violently and yell in her ear; 'Wakey wakey!' but to no avail. She murmurs something in her sleep about a kiss, and then resumes snoring. The lazy cow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kiss her", "response": "Okay - but this had better work, bozo!\n\n(I pucker up and give her a big sloppy kiss on the cheek.)\n\nYeuch! That was vile! And it didn't work either - it looks as\nthough only a kiss from a handsome prince will wake her! Typical bloody princess - too fussy for her own good if you ask me!\nThe Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room downwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tiny bed", "response": "Ooh, what a sweet 'ickle bed! It looks just big enough for 'ickle ole' me, but somebody got there first! It's that lazy cow Sleeping Beauty! There's no way I'm snuggling up next to that bimbo!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a huge bed. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the huge bed", "response": "It's very large and very uncomfortable looking, and is covered by a single rather thin looking blanket. Is this guy some kind of masochist or what?\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blanket", "response": "It's threadbare and patched in several places, but otherwise quite uninteresting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the medium bed", "response": "This thing has so many quilts and eiderdowns piled on it that I fear the frame will give way under the weight. Mama Bear is heading for some real back trouble in later life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the huge bed", "response": "On the huge bed is a rather thin blanket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the blanket", "response": "Wow! Now I understand why the huge bed felt so hard! What better way to conceal from your wife the fact that you've spent your family's entire annual porridge budget on a full sized snooker table than to give up your conjugal rights altogether and disguise it as a bed! Boy, could this couple use some marriage guidance!\nThe Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room downwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the snooker table", "response": "No wonder it was so hard! The \"bed\" was actually a full sized snooker table with pockets and everything...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search pockets", "response": "In one of the pockets is a cue ball.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cue ball", "response": "Oh great. More junk. We're building up quite a collection, aren't we?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cue ball", "response": "Shiny, round and white.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Wolf", "response": "What big eyes he has! What big teeth he has!! And what a big...\n...oh, never mind. For some reason he is dressed as an old woman in a bonnet and nightgown, but each to their own, I say.\n'Here, piggy piggy piggy!' says the wolf, wandering off downwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I am carrying:\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na wedge of cheese\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl of just-right porridge\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is open, but a strong draught threatens to blow it shut at any moment. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Wolf about the Beauty", "response": "'Enough talk! There are more important matters at hand - such as lunch! Where are those pigs?'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close trapdoor", "response": "I close the trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trophies", "response": "On one of the walls there are several animal heads mounted on wooden plaques. It's hard to tell given the appalling quality of the taxidermy job, but I'd swear that some of these heads were once human. No cuddly teddy bears, these three!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the portraits", "response": "One wall is dominated by a rather amateurish painting of the Three Bears signed by Mama Bear herself. I can't see her winning the Turner Prize anytime soon! The rest are portraits of more distant members of the bear clan, including Grampa Bear and Grandma Bear. I guess even the three bears have forbears!\n\nThat's odd; for some reason Papa Bear is only wearing one sock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "'Well,' says the wolf, 'it was nice talking to you, but I really must be off. Those piggies won't get eaten all by themselves.'\n\nI'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door is closed. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\n\ndoor shut behind me!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I'm in a little garden alongside the cottage. There's a vegetable plot in a sunny spot by the wall and on the other side of the garden a somewhat neglected ornamental pond. There's obviously been some attempt at landscaping but the effect is less Capability Brown and more incapable bruin. A ramshackle potting shed completes the image of horticultural incompetence. To the north, an overgrown pergola leads into a meadow. A gigantic beanstalk rises out of the vegetable plot and stops abruptly just above the level of the roof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb beanstalk", "response": "If Jack can do it, so can Goldilocks!\nAt the top of the beanstalk\nI'm at the top of the beanstalk. I was under the impression that these giant beanstalks all had castles at the top of them, but not this scrawny specimen. However I can almost touch the roof of the cottage from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "I'm lost in the forest, surrounded on all sides by dense foliage. I knew it was a bad idea to stray from the path! I can go in any direction, but I haven't a clue which is the right one!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "There's an arrow carved into the bark of one particular tree! It's pointing to the west!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A large wooden sign informs me that I'm in the Enchanted Forest. What it doesn't tell me is how the hell I get out! Everywhere I look there are trees, trees, trees. This place definately has a 'tree' theme going. A clearly marked path leads south and west, whilst in every other direction are, well, trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door is closed. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "I'm in a small meadow at the back of the cottage, separated from the forest by a rickety fence. In the middle of the meadow is what appears to be a homemade wind turbine! To the south, through the tangled pergola, is the garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the fence", "response": "No thanks, I'd only get lost in the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the turbine", "response": "It appears to be a 5 KW battery-charging turbine made from wood, old tractor parts and a washing machine motor, probably connected to the cottage by an underground cable. See - I'm not just a pretty face! (Though you have to admit, I am pretty.) The sails are not currently moving since the air is completely still.\n\nThere is what appears to be an oil can sitting on a platform near the top of the turbine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I am carrying:\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na wedge of cheese\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl of just-right porridge\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw cue ball at the oil can", "response": "I hurl the cue ball at the can of oil in the hope of knocking it off the platform, but I've never been much good at that sort of thing. the cue ball misses the oil can completely and lands a short distance away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the porridge", "response": "Mmmmm! That porridge tasted JUST RIGHT! I feel thoroughly invigourated; in fact I could toss a few cabers myself if you know what I mean. Wait, that sounded really dodgy. Forget I said it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cue ball", "response": "Yeah, sure, whatever - I'll just tuck it under my chin or something. Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "I put on the gloves, but they're much too big for me and feel just a little loose!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pond", "response": "The Three Bears' attempt at a 'water feature' is rather small and choked with pond weed. I think I see something small and green moving below the surface!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pond about the pond", "response": "I can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Ball", "response": "I already have that.\n\nDamn! The gloves just dropped off my hands! Yes, both of them, at the same time! What are the chances of that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gloves", "response": "This could be the pair of gardening gloves that broke Goldilocks' back, you know! Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na pair of gardening gloves\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na wedge of cheese\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light dynamite", "response": "Wowee! Who'd have thought some sticks of dynamite would burn so well! Uh-oh; the flames are spreading like wildfire - I burned down the cottage, the entire forest and everything in it, including me. That'll teach me to play with matches!!\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 21 out of a possible 100, in 281 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get hair", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light hair", "response": "Wowee! Who'd have thought my dreadlocks would burn so well! Uh-oh; the flames are spreading like wildfire - I burned down the cottage, the entire forest and everything in it, including me. That'll teach me to play with matches!!\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 21 out of a possible 100, in 284 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light paintbrush", "response": "Wowee! Who'd have thought the ratty old paintbrush would burn so well! Uh-oh; the flames are spreading like wildfire - I burned down the cottage, the entire forest and everything in it, including me. That'll teach me to play with matches!!\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 21 out of a possible 100, in 285 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at trowel", "response": "It's a thingy for digging little holes in the garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pergola", "response": "Through the pergola to the south is the garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Ball in the pond", "response": "Right idea, I think - just wrong kind of ball.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the shed", "response": "I'm in the potting shed, a ramshackle structure that was obviously cobbled together in five minutes some idle Sunday afternoon. I didn't know bears had green fingers. In fact I didn't know they had fingers at all. Plant pots of all sizes are scattered about the shed untidily and the whole place is festooned with cobwebs.\nIn the corner is an old metal trunk marked 'FISHING TACKLE.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cobwebs", "response": "They're absolutely everywhere. It doesn't look as though this place gets a lot of use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Ball", "response": "Shiny, round and white.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na pair of gardening gloves\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na wedge of cheese\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blanket", "response": "It's threadbare and patched in several places, but otherwise quite uninteresting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the blanket", "response": "(with the pair of secateurs)\nCutting that up would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the porch", "response": "A little thatched porch over the front door. It would be quite pretty except that someone has seen fit to paint it gold. Whoever it was has obviously seen one too many episodes of \"Changing Rooms.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "Unfortunately the door locked automatically when it blew shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the chimney", "response": "Okay here goes... Wheee! I slid right down the chimney and out of the fireplace! That was fun. Can I do it again?\nIn the kitchen\nI am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge. 'Here, piggy piggy piggy!' says the wolf, wandering off to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fireplace", "response": "Must be where Mama bear cooks all her porridge. I don't know why she doesn't just get herself a microwave. The hearth is cold and full of ash. Something glints among the embers...\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the ash", "response": "I fish around in the embers until I find an old brass key. What a ridiculous place to keep it! I pick it up in case it comes in useful. The Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It looks rather rustic, which is to say that it looks like a bunch of logs crudely nailed together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is closed. Just inside the front door is a closed trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous. The Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a full sized snooker table. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Beauty", "response": "She's sprawled across Baby Bear's bed, fast asleep and still wearing her party dress. Drunk, I shouldn't wonder. Oi! Beauty! This is my fairytale! Hoppit!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss Beauty", "response": "Forget it! Once was more than enough, thankyou!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "No wonder it was so hard! The \"bed\" was actually a full sized snooker table with pockets and everything...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the pockets", "response": "one of the pockets is empty.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is closed. Just inside the front door is a closed trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trapdoor", "response": "I open the trapdoor. A set of rickety wooden stairs lead down into darkness.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light match", "response": "I take a match from the box and strike it. The match flares briefly...\n\nI'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. A battered old wardrobe stands against the western wall of the cellar.\n\nand then goes out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is closed. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\nan old brass key\na pair of gardening gloves\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na wedge of cheese\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the portraits", "response": "One wall is dominated by a rather amateurish painting of the Three Bears signed by Mama Bear herself. I can't see her winning the Turner Prize anytime soon! The rest are portraits of more distant members of the bear clan, including Grampa Bear and Grandma Bear. I guess even the three bears have forbears!\n\nThat's odd; for some reason Papa Bear is only wearing one sock.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is closed. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trophies", "response": "On one of the walls there are several animal heads mounted on wooden plaques. It's hard to tell given the appalling quality of the taxidermy job, but I'd swear that some of these heads were once human. No cuddly teddy bears, these three!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "I'm in the pantry, a small claustrophobic room which smells faintly of cinammon, honey and the mouse droppings that are liberally sprinkled across the tiled floor. There is an upright freezer in the corner and some sturdy shelves stacked high with box after box of McScottie's porridge oats. The kitchen lies to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fireplace", "response": "Must be where Mama bear cooks all her porridge. I don't know why she doesn't just get herself a microwave. The hearth is cold and full of ash.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\nan old brass key\na pair of gardening gloves\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na wedge of cheese\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the note in the fireplace", "response": "...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the trowel in the fireplace", "response": "...\nThe Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter fireplace", "response": "That's not something I can enter.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is closed. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I can't go in that direction, but I can move north, west, up and down. The Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the medium chair", "response": "Wow - this chair is soooo soft it's unbelievable! A little too soft! Lucky I'm so light or I'd sink right into it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "I get out of the medium-sized chair.\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Three chairs are arranged around a small coffee table; a large chair, a medium-sized chair and a tiny little chair.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the medium chair", "response": "The Big Bad Wolf has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the large chair", "response": "It's a huge overstuffed leather affair covered with leather buttons. It looks well worn, as though the person it belongs to has nothing better to do than sit on a horrible hard chair all day. As if it wasn't uncomfortable enough already, the chair is fitted with electrodes!\n\nOne of the buttons on the arm looks slightly different from the others...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the electrodes", "response": "I guess Papa Bear's a bit touchy about other people sitting in his chair! A cable attached to the electrodes disappears into the back of the chair. I think it must supply the power to those electrodes!\n'As much as I've enjoyed chewing the fat with you,' says the wolf, 'I'd rather be chewing on some crackling. Now where are those pigs?' 'Here, piggy piggy piggy!' says the wolf, wandering off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the button", "response": "Whereas all the other buttons look like part of the upholstery, this one is bright red and has the word \"activate\" written on it!\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wolf about the windmill", "response": "This provokes no reaction.\nThe Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is closed. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a full sized snooker table. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "Do you want me to break a nail or something?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "It affords a view of the clearing in front of the house. The window is painted shut and doesn't look as though it's been opened in years. There's a tiny point of light flitting about outside the window!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the window", "response": "I'm not sure that would be a good idea. I might frighten away that tiny point of light, whatever it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I am carrying:\na copy of 'Hail!' magazine\nan old brass key\na pair of gardening gloves\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na wedge of cheese\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Descend", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is closed. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous. The Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The front door is open. It creaks slightly in the draught.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The front door is open, but a strong draught threatens to blow it shut at any moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door is closed. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\n\ndoor shut behind me!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dustbin", "response": "An environmentally sound way of disposing of all the objects I'm finished with. The battered old dustbin is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bottle in the dustbin", "response": "I put the broken bottle into the battered old dustbin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plot", "response": "It's in a sunny spot by the side of the cottage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light pork", "response": "Wowee! Who'd have thought the packet of frozen pork chops would burn so well! Uh-oh; the flames are spreading like wildfire - I burned down the cottage, the entire forest and everything in it, including me. That'll teach me to play with matches!!\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 24 out of a possible 100, in 385 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the packet", "response": "Which do you mean, the packet of frozen pork chops or the small packet?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cook the pork", "response": "How?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine can", "response": "It's out of my reach I'm afraid. Papa Bear must have left it up there when he built the turbine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Ball at the can", "response": "I hurl the cue ball at the can of oil in the hope of knocking it off the platform, but I've never been much good at that sort of thing. the cue ball misses the oil can completely and lands a short distance away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You need to find something to wedge it open with.\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) How do I stop the front door from blowing shut?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "If you really want to know, don't ask me. Watch TV and read a magazine.\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) How do I stop the front door from blowing shut?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the chimney", "response": "Okay... Oof! Fortunately for you I had a soft landing on the thatched roof of the cottage...\nOn the roof\nI'm perched precariously on the roof of the cottage, trying desperately not to look down. There is a chimney here attached to which is a TV aerial. It kind of spoils the chocolate box look of the place if you know what I mean. The top of the beanstalk can be seen poking up above the roofline.\nOkay here goes... Wheee! I slid right down the chimney and out of the fireplace! That was fun. Can I do it again?\nIn the kitchen\nI am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge. The Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge door with cheese", "response": "Okay, I wedged the door open with the stale cheese.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the mouse to Wolf", "response": "(first taking the dead mouse)\nThe Big Bad Wolf doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wolf about the windmill", "response": "This provokes no reaction.\n'Little pigs! Little pigs!' calls the Big Bad Wolf as he disappears upwards. 'Come on out, there's nothing to be afraid of!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "From its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Three chairs are arranged around a small coffee table; a large chair, a medium-sized chair and a tiny little chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na dead mouse\na copy of 'Hail!' magazine\nan old brass key\na pair of gardening gloves\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open but empty)\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light magazine", "response": "Wowee! Who'd have thought the copy of 'Hail!' magazine would burn so well! Uh-oh; the flames are spreading like wildfire - I burned down the cottage, the entire forest and everything in it, including me. That'll teach me to play with matches!!\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 27 out of a possible 100, in 408 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) What should I do with the pond?\n(3) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(4) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(5) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You need to generate some power first.\nAnother Hint? [Y/N]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "With a little help from an old friend...\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) What should I do with the pond?\n(3) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(4) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(5) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "Remember your fairy tales!\nAnother Hint? [Y/N]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Only a kiss from a handsome prince can wake her!\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) What should I do with the pond?\n(3) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(4) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(5) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na dead mouse\na copy of 'Hail!' magazine\nan old brass key\na pair of gardening gloves\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open but empty)\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel", "response": "What do you want to feel?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous. 'Little pigs! Little pigs!' calls the Big Bad Wolf as he disappears upwards. 'Come on out, there's nothing to be afraid of!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na dead mouse\na copy of 'Hail!' magazine\nan old brass key\na pair of gardening gloves\na cue ball\na rather thin blanket\na bearskin rug (being worn)\nan antimacassar\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open but empty)\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 11:55 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dress", "response": "It's the latest in charity shop chic. Okay, so the hemline used to be a little bit lower. I got a bit scissor-happy, okay?\nI'm feeling really sleepy...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rug", "response": "A slightly motheaten pelt with wildly staring glass eyes, previously worn by Grampa bear I presume. Waste not want not, I suppose, but kind of icky all the same. Someone has rather creatively shaved the word 'welcome' on his back. I wonder if they waited until after he was dead...?\n'Here, piggy piggy piggy!' says the wolf, wandering off to the north. I can hardly keep my eyes open...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a full sized snooker table. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.\nSo tired...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie on medium bed", "response": "Sorry, what was that you said? I'm having trouble concentrating...\nA large shadow looms over me...\n\nBefore I can turn around, someone lays a large heavy paw on my shoulder. I turn my head to see three shaggy forms bearing down on me, if you'll excuse the pun, their hot, fetid breath in my face.\n'Who's been eating my porridge?' snarls Papa Bear.\n'Who's been sitting in my chair?' growls Mama Bear.\n'Who's been planning to sleep off her hangover in my bed, but\ndidn't quite get around to it yet?' says Baby Bear. 'Left it a little too late, didn't you Goldilocks? Should have kept an eye on the time - it's noon and we're back from our walk now, and we're very, very upset! What shall we do with her, Pater?'\n'I think she'd look lovely on our trophy wall,' says Papa Bear. 'especially with all that lovely hair.'\nHe produces a red hot poker from behind his back. 'But first I\nthink we'll take her down to the dungeon and have ourselves a little fun...'\n\nUh-oh. There's no getting out of this one! Somehow, I think the adventure is over...\nI have so far scored 27 out of a possible 100, in 420 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 11:49 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "If you really want to know, don't ask me. Watch TV and read a magazine.\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) What should I do with the pond?\n(3) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(4) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(5) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "0", "response": "The Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie on the tiny bed", "response": "I'm not snuggling up next to her! There's not enough room, for one thing, and she snores, for another!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie on the medium bed", "response": "I lie down on the medium-sized bed and immediately begin to sink into its suffocating folds. I manage to claw my way out, gasping for breath. There's no way I'm sleeping in that bed tonight!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "I am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge. 'Here, piggy piggy piggy!' says the wolf, wandering off to the north. I'm feeling really sleepy...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Descend", "response": "It is pitch dark, and I can't see a thing.\nI'm feeling really sleepy...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I can't go in that direction, but I can move north, west, up, down and out.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the west.\nI'm feeling really sleepy...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\nI can hardly keep my eyes open...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I can't go in that direction, but I can move south and in.\nSo tired...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous. The Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "I'm in the potting shed, a ramshackle structure that was obviously cobbled together in five minutes some idle Sunday afternoon. I didn't know bears had green fingers. In fact I didn't know they had fingers at all. Plant pots of all sizes are scattered about the shed untidily and the whole place is festooned with cobwebs.\nIn the corner is an old metal trunk marked 'FISHING TACKLE.'\nI'm feeling really sleepy...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search pots", "response": "I find nothing of interest.\nI can hardly keep my eyes open...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pots", "response": "The plant pots are piled precariously against the wall of the shed.\nSo tired...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the cobwebs", "response": "Sorry, what was that you said? I'm having trouble concentrating...\nA large shadow looms over me...\n\nBefore I can turn around, someone lays a large heavy paw on my shoulder. I turn my head to see three shaggy forms bearing down on me, if you'll excuse the pun, their hot, fetid breath in my face.\n'Who's been eating my porridge?' snarls Papa Bear.\n'Who's been sitting in my chair?' growls Mama Bear.\n'Who's been planning to sleep off her hangover in my bed, but\ndidn't quite get around to it yet?' says Baby Bear. 'Left it a little too late, didn't you Goldilocks? Should have kept an eye on the time - it's noon and we're back from our walk now, and we're very, very upset! What shall we do with her, Pater?'\n'I think she'd look lovely on our trophy wall,' says Papa Bear. 'especially with all that lovely hair.'\nHe produces a red hot poker from behind his back. 'But first I\nthink we'll take her down to the dungeon and have ourselves a little fun...'\n\nUh-oh. There's no getting out of this one! Somehow, I think the adventure is over...\nI have so far scored 27 out of a possible 100, in 420 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge door with cheese", "response": "Okay, I wedged the door open with the stale cheese.\nThe Big Bad Wolf strolls out of the room to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break pots", "response": "Now why would I want to do a thing like that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the pots", "response": "I can't reach the ones at the top, so I try to pull one out from near the bottom. Moments later the entire pile is lying all over the floor in fragments.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "I'm in the potting shed, a ramshackle structure that was obviously cobbled together in five minutes some idle Sunday afternoon. I didn't know bears had green fingers. In fact I didn't know they had fingers at all. The floor is littered with pieces of broken plant pot and the whole place is festooned with cobwebs.\nIn the corner is an old metal trunk marked 'FISHING TACKLE.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the trunk", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in trunk", "response": "The old metal trunk is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "(1) Can I eat the porridge in the large and medium-sized bowls?\n(2) What should I do with the pond?\n(3) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(4) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "There is, but it is cheating; you won't get the best ending if you do this.\nAnother Hint? [Y/N]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Forest", "response": "It's really quite pretty - the way the early morning sun shines through the treetops dappling the forest floor. I'd like to be able to tell you what kinds of trees there are but I got kicked out of the Girl Scouts for - let's just say - gross misconduct - with one of the Boy Scout leaders...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sign", "response": "NO TRESPASSING IN STRANGE LITTLE COTTAGES\nDO NOT STRAY FROM THE PATHS\n(Unless you want to get seriously lost, that is!)\n\nDO NOT FEED THE WOLVES!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "What do you want to dig?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the beanstalk", "response": "Aren't these things supposed to lead to castles in the clouds with giants and stuff? I guess that bean must have been past it's sell-by date, but then so was the cow I exchanged it for...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the chimney", "response": "Okay here goes... Wheee! I slid right down the chimney and out of the fireplace! That was fun. Can I do it again?\nIn the kitchen\nI am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "I'm in the pantry, a small claustrophobic room which smells faintly of cinammon, honey and the mouse droppings that are liberally sprinkled across the tiled floor. There is an upright freezer in the corner and some sturdy shelves stacked high with box after box of McScottie's porridge oats. The kitchen lies to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Completing the morbid ambiance is a motheaten bearskin rug.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous. 'Little pigs! Little pigs!' calls the Big Bad Wolf as he disappears upwards. 'Come on out, there's nothing to be afraid of!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Completing the morbid ambiance is a motheaten bearskin rug.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a huge bed. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.\n'Little pigs! Little pigs!' calls the Big Bad Wolf as he disappears downwards. 'Come on out, there's nothing to be afraid of!'", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Completing the morbid ambiance is a motheaten bearskin rug.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge. The Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Completing the morbid ambiance is a motheaten bearskin rug.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rug", "response": "I pick up the bearskin rug. Oh, wow, there's a trapdoor hidden underneath the rug! What a stupid place to put it - right in front of the front door. Someone could have a nasty accident if they didn't know it was there!\n'Here, piggy piggy piggy!' says the wolf, wandering off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trapdoor", "response": "I open the trapdoor. A set of rickety wooden stairs lead down into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "I am carrying:\na bearskin rug\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl of just-right porridge\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the porridge", "response": "Mmmmm! That porridge tasted JUST RIGHT! I feel thoroughly invigourated; in fact I could toss a few cabers myself if you know what I mean. Wait, that sounded really dodgy. Forget I said it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dresser", "response": "It's an olde worlde pine number. Looks like it's seen quite a bit of use over the years. The kitchen dresser is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat oats", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "The right tool for the right job.\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "'Well,' says the wolf, 'it was nice talking to you, but I really must be off. Those piggies won't get eaten all by themselves.'\n\nI'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "I am carrying:\nan old brass key\na bearskin rug\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open window with the key", "response": "Generations of careless decorators have repeatedly painted over the catch making it impossible to turn. No matter how hard I try I can't open it with my bare hands!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "I put on the gloves, but they're much too big for me and feel just a little loose!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open window with the key", "response": "Even with thick leather gloves on I still can't turn the catch! I'm going to need something a bit more heavy duty!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\nan old brass key\na bearskin rug\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves (being worn)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "Even with thick leather gloves on I still can't turn the catch! I'm going to need something a bit more heavy duty!\n\nDamn! The gloves just dropped off my hands! Yes, both of them, at the same time! What are the chances of that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gloves", "response": "This could be the pair of gardening gloves that broke Goldilocks' back, you know! Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "I put on the gloves, but they're much too big for me and feel just a little loose!\n\nDamn! The gloves just dropped off my hands! Yes, both of them, at the same time! What are the chances of that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "I am carrying:\na pair of gardening gloves\nan old brass key\na bearskin rug (being worn)\na packet of frozen pork chops\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the watch", "response": "It is about 9:35 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "The right tool for the right job.\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You need to generate some power first.\nAnother Hint? [Y/N]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "With a little help from an old friend...\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) Why doesn't the button on the large chair do anything?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light catch", "response": "Wowee! Who'd have thought the catch would burn so well! Uh-oh; the flames are spreading like wildfire - I burned down the cottage, the entire forest and everything in it, including me. That'll teach me to play with matches!!\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 27 out of a possible 100, in 277 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the tiny chair", "response": "Wow, this chair feels just right! Oh, crap!! The stupid thing collapsed right under me! I guess that's what happens if you buy self-assembly.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "From its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it.\n\nA small pile of firewood is all that remains of the tiny little chair.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the firewood", "response": "Oh, so you want me to pick up the pile of firewood now, on top of everything else? Fine! I'll just tuck it between my knees, shall I?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the firewood in the fireplace", "response": "I put the pile of firewood into the fireplace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light firewood", "response": "I strike a match and set fire to the remains of Baby Bear's chair...\n\nAlright! There's a blazing fire in the hearth now. Who says I'm not domesticated? That's only one step away from cooking! And to think they kicked me out of the Girl Scouts!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cook the pork", "response": "I put the pork chops on the hearth. Wow, they defrosted quickly!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pork", "response": "There's a picture of three little pigs on the packet. Kinda sick when you think about it. I think I'll become a vegetarian.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pork", "response": "This could be the packet of medium rare pork chops that broke Goldilocks' back, you know! Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give pork to Wolf", "response": "The wolf grabs the packet of pork chops and tears off the wrapper, then rolls on the floor gnawing at them like a dog with an old slipper. Moments later, when he has recovered his dignity, he rises to his feet and says\n'My dear girl, that was simply exquisite! I am indebted for you for that delectable dish! If there is anything I can do in return, simply name it, and it will be done! Huffing and puffing a speciality...'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Wolf about the windmill", "response": "This provokes no reaction.\n\nThe Big Bad Wolf taps his foot impatiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Wolf about the windmill", "response": "'No more of this idle banter! If there is something you wish me to do for you, let us attend to it immediately. I am a cunning hunter of the wilderness, and have no time to waste in frivolous conversation!'\n\nThe Big Bad Wolf scratches his ear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I can't go in that direction, but I can move north, west, up, down and out.\n\nThe Big Bad Wolf taps his foot impatiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\nThe Big Bad Wolf follows me.\n'Ah, my natural habitat!' says the wolf, 'There really is nothing quite like the forest!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I can't go in that direction, but I can move south and in.\n\nThe Big Bad Wolf taps his foot impatiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I'm in a clearing. There is a teeny tiny cottage here complete with a thatched roof and leaded windows. It's just like something out of a fairy tale, funnily enough, except for the large hand-painted sign designed to deter trespassers. Just to the north is the front porch. A little path lined by rows of white-painted stones leads around the side of the house to the west.\nThe Big Bad Wolf follows me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "I'm in a little garden alongside the cottage. There's a vegetable plot in a sunny spot by the wall and on the other side of the garden a somewhat neglected ornamental pond. There's obviously been some attempt at landscaping but the effect is less Capability Brown and more incapable bruin. A ramshackle potting shed completes the image of horticultural incompetence. To the north, an overgrown pergola leads into a meadow. A gigantic beanstalk rises out of the vegetable plot and stops abruptly just above the level of the roof.\nThe Big Bad Wolf follows me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "I'm in a small meadow at the back of the cottage, separated from the forest by a rickety fence. In the middle of the meadow is what appears to be a homemade wind turbine! To the south, through the tangled pergola, is the garden.\nThe Big Bad Wolf follows me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow", "response": "What do you want the Big Bad Wolf to blow?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turbine", "response": "'Ah, so you wish to make use of my prodigious talents! I shall huff, and I shall puff, and I shall have that turbine turning in a jiffy!' True to his word, the wolf huffs, and he puffs, and he blows the turbine with a gale-force blast of air that sends it spinning like a toy windmill.\n'My debt is paid, dear child - I shall now return to the forest\nwhich is the natural habitat of a fearsome predator such as I. I bid you adieu!' With that he gives a low bow, at which point the oil can falls from the top of the turbine and bops him on the head. With a cluck of annoyance he hitches up the hem of his nightdress, hops over the fence and disappears into the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the turbine", "response": "It appears to be a 5 KW battery-charging turbine made from wood, old tractor parts and a washing machine motor, probably connected to the cottage by an underground cable. Faint wisps of smoke are still issuing from the overheated generator!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "From its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You sit in the large chair", "response": "The second I plump myself down on the large chair I go into convulsions as 240 volts sear through my body! The room is filled with an odour reminscent of barbequed ribs. When the bears come home they find my blackened skeleton grinning at them from the armchair...\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 39 out of a possible 100, in 315 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rug on the large chair", "response": "(first taking it off)\n\nI take off the bearskin rug.\nI put the bearskin rug on the large chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the large chair", "response": "The second I plump myself down on the large chair I go into convulsions as 240 volts sear through my body! The room is filled with an odour reminscent of barbequed ribs. When the bears come home they find my blackened skeleton grinning at them from the armchair...\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 39 out of a possible 100, in 316 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the large chair", "response": "The second I plump myself down on the large chair I go into convulsions as 240 volts sear through my body! The room is filled with an odour reminscent of barbequed ribs. When the bears come home they find my blackened skeleton grinning at them from the armchair...\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 39 out of a possible 100, in 318 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unplug the cable", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the cable", "response": "(with the pair of secateurs)\nNo, no good - I couldn't even cut my hair with these secateurs - too rusty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oil secateurs", "response": "Okay, a dash of SUPERLUBE and these babies are as good as new!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the cable", "response": "(with the pair of secateurs)\nThe secateurs cut through the insulation like a knife through butter...\n\n...Unfortunately I forgot to turn off the power supply first! 240 volts sear through my body filling the room with an odour not dissimilar to roast pork. The bears come home to find my blackened skeleton grinning at them from behind the armchair! I'm dead, and it's all your fault!\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 39 out of a possible 100, in 321 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\n\nI'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. A battered old wardrobe stands against the western wall of the cellar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wardrobe", "response": "An old wooden wardrobe with brass handles that looks like it's seen better days. Probably why it's in the cellar. There's a gentle breeze coming from behind the wardrobe! The wardrobe is locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock wardrobe", "response": "What do you want to unlock the wardrobe with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Key", "response": "I unlock the wardrobe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wardrobe", "response": "I open the wardrobe, revealing a set of dumbells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dumbells", "response": "Yeah, sure, whatever - I'll just tuck them under my chin or something. Taken.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "I'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. A battered old wardrobe stands against the western wall of the cellar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the machine", "response": "The door of the washing machine is jammed shut! Don't you just hate it when that happens?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the machine", "response": "It doesn't seem to have been used in a while, probably because it's missing it's motor. The door is tightly shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fusebox", "response": "There is a volt meter inside, and two switches marked A and B.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off a.", "response": "(switch A)\nOkay, Switch A is in the OFF position.\nThe lights go off!\n\nIt is now pitch dark in here!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the b.", "response": "Okay, Switch B is in the OFF position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the cable", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the large chair is a bearskin rug.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.\n(with the pair of secateurs)\nOkay, I use the secateurs to cut the cable connecting the electrodes to the power supply. Let's see Papa Bear try to fry me now!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\n\nI'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. A battered old wardrobe stands against the western wall of the cellar.\nOkay, Switch B is in the ON position.\n\nI'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the large chair is a bearskin rug.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in large", "response": "Bloody hell! This has got to be the hardest chair I've ever sat in! I've only been here two seconds and my buttocks are as numb as a pair of frozen fishcakes!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the remote", "response": "There are two buttons, marked \"Channel\" and \"Buy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the remote", "response": "What do you think I am, a packhorse? Oh, alright then; taken.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "I'm in an underground cave. From the decor I'd say this was Papa Bear's private den, a place of sanctuary away from the rigours of family life. The walls are plastered with posters of football teams and pin-ups from 'Playbear.' A solid metal door, set into the western wall of the cave looks almost impenetrable. There's an electric socket in the wall next to the door. The large chair is now facing a television set and there's a fridge within easy reach of the chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 10:49 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at door", "response": "The door looks as though it has been designed to withstand anything short of a nuclear blast! There's a sign on the door which reads \"Papa Bear's workshop - STRICTLY NO ADMITTANCE to anyone other than Papa Bear!\" Just next to the door at floor level is an electric socket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "The solid metal door has no doorhandle or keyhole and there is no other visible means of opening it. The secret is known only to Papa Bear!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "I open the refridgerator, revealing a can of beer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the beer", "response": "Yeah, sure, whatever - I'll just tuck it under my chin or something. Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the fridge", "response": "I close the refridgerator.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "I can't go in any direction!\n\n'Ding-Dong!' A bell rings somewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "I'll have to get off the large chair first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I get off the large chair.\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.\n\nI'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\n\nI can also see a package (which is closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the package", "response": "It's addressed to \"Goldilocks, c/o 3 Bears' Cottage, Enchanted Forest, Fairyland FL3 7ER.\" It's a wonder that they managed to find me. In fact it's a wonder I even managed to order it in the first place considering that the bears don't have cable!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the package", "response": "I open the package, revealing an electric toaster and a leaflet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the leaflet", "response": "\"Thankyou for purchasing the toast-o-mastic 3000 atomic 3 - slot toaster. This revolutionary gadget allows you to toast not one but three slices of bread at the same time... blah blah blah.\" There is some smallprint, but it is illegible to the naked eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toaster", "response": "It's a stylish chrome affair with three slots, each about an inch wide, and a control lever which can be depressed to activate it. The lever is in the off position. The toaster is not plugged in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unplug the tv", "response": "Okay, I pulled the plug out of the wall socket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You plug the toaster", "response": "Okay, I put the plug in the wall socket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the socket", "response": "Which do you mean, the wall socket or the electric socket?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the electric socket", "response": "For plugging electrical appliances into. I believe it's known as an outlet across the pond. The toaster is currently plugged into the wall socket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toaster", "response": "It's a stylish chrome affair with three slots, each about an inch wide, and a control lever which can be depressed to activate it. The lever is in the off position. The toaster is plugged into the wall socket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na package (which is open)\na leaflet\na can of beer\na bearskin rug\na TV remote control\na set of dumbells\nan antimacassar\nan oil can\na pair of gardening gloves\nan old brass key\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the dynamite in the toaster", "response": "Hmmm... they seem to fit quite snuggly. I jammed them in upside down so that the fuses are touching the heating elements of the toaster.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toaster", "response": "It's a stylish chrome affair with three slots, each about an inch wide, and a control lever which can be depressed to activate it. The lever is in the off position. A stick of dynamite has been wedged into each of the slots. The toaster is plugged into the wall socket.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You get the dynamite", "response": "The dynamite is of more use to me inside the toaster than out!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na package (which is open)\na leaflet\na can of beer\na bearskin rug\na TV remote control\na set of dumbells\nan antimacassar\nan oil can\na pair of gardening gloves\nan old brass key\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "I'm in an underground cave. From the decor I'd say this was Papa Bear's private den, a place of sanctuary away from the rigours of family life. The walls are plastered with posters of football teams and pin-ups from 'Playbear.' A solid metal door, set into the western wall of the cave looks almost impenetrable. There's an electric socket in the wall next to the door. The large chair is now facing a television set and there's a fridge within easy reach of the chair.\n\nI can see an electric toaster (in which are some sticks of dynamite) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examinthe pin-ups", "response": "Forget it, pervert! For one thing, I'm not a bear and for another I'm not that way inclined!\nHel-lo - look at the knockers on that one!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the beer", "response": "Down in one! (Glug, glug glug!) God, that hits the spot! (Burp!)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at print", "response": "I can't - it's written in the most microscopic type I've ever seen; in fact I nearly didn't see it. Seems the toaster company really don't want anyone to read this!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na fine print\na package (which is open)\na leaflet\na can of beer\na bearskin rug\na TV remote control\na set of dumbells\nan antimacassar\nan oil can\na pair of gardening gloves\nan old brass key\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na trowel\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "(1) How do I get into Papa Bear's workshop?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You need to create a nuclear explosion.\nAnother Hint? [Y/N]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Blow up the atomic toaster!\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) How do I get into Papa Bear's workshop?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with the pond?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) How do I get rid of Sleeping Beauty?\n(6) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the toaster", "response": "In the electric toaster are some sticks of dynamite.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lever", "response": "It activates the toaster. You push it down, the toaster toasts. Provided it's plugged in and the power's on. The lever is in the off position.\nI'm feeling really sleepy...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You sit on the chair", "response": "Bloody hell! This has got to be the hardest chair I've ever sat in! I've only been here two seconds and my buttocks are as numb as a pair of frozen fishcakes!\nI can hardly keep my eyes open...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "Sorry, what was that you said? I'm having trouble concentrating...\nA large shadow looms over me...\n\nBefore I can turn around, someone lays a large heavy paw on my shoulder. I turn my head to see three shaggy forms bearing down on me, if you'll excuse the pun, their hot, fetid breath in my face.\n'Who's been eating my porridge?' snarls Papa Bear.\n'Who's been planning to sleep off her hangover in my bed, but\ndidn't quite get around to it yet?' says Baby Bear. 'Left it a little too late, didn't you Goldilocks? Should have kept an eye on the time - it's noon and we're back from our walk now, and we're very, very upset! What shall we do with her, Pater?'\n'I think she'd look lovely on our trophy wall,' says Papa Bear. 'especially with all that lovely hair.'\nHe produces a red hot poker from behind his back. 'But first I\nthink we'll take her down to the dungeon and have ourselves a little fun...'\n\nUh-oh. There's no getting out of this one! Somehow, I think the adventure is over...\nI have so far scored 48 out of a possible 100, in 420 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the watch", "response": "It is about 7:50 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "Anyone for pyromania? The matchbox contains just two matches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the oats", "response": "One of the cartons has the words \"FREE GIFT\" splashed all over the side of it, so I grab that one. I always was a sucker for those little plastic gizmos. The carton is surprisingly light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the oats", "response": "(the carton of porridge oats)\nI open the carton of porridge oats, revealing a pendant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pendant", "response": "Fine, fine, no problem - I'll just balance it on top of my head. What did your last slave die of?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "Oh wow! As soon as I put it on it becomes a glow-in-the-dark pendant! How cool is that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the oats", "response": "(the carton of porridge oats)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put rug on the trapdoor", "response": "Okay, I placed the rug over the trapdoor, so that it looks exactly as before - except that the trapdoor is open!\n\nSomebody is banging on the front door!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "I open the door a tiny crack. As I do so, the mangy looking wolf I encountered on the path barges into the hall, his beady eyes darting this way and that. Unfortunately he fails to notice the open trapdoor concealed under the rug and falls headlong into the cellar with a loud crash. Moments later he re-emerges looking meaner than ever.\n'I'm going to eat you little piggies!' he snarls. 'Don't worry, it won't hurt a bit.' Then he notices me and his expression turns to one of bewilderment. 'My dear girl,' he says 'we really must stop meeting like this. It is not you I seek, but the Three Little Pigs. I waited two whole weeks for Little Red Riding Hood, after devouring her grandmother who was exceedingly tough and chewy and quite frankly I have had enough of the taste of humans. Go tell those snivelling pigs it's breakfast time!!'", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is open, but a strong draught threatens to blow it shut at any moment. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go down", "response": "I'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. A battered old wardrobe stands against the western wall of the cellar.\n\nI can see a bearskin rug here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rug", "response": "Yeah, sure, whatever - I'll just tuck it under my chin or something. Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wardrobe", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock wardrobe", "response": "What do you want to unlock the wardrobe with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "(first taking the up above)\nThat isn't available.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search ashes", "response": "I fish around in the embers until I find an old brass key. What a ridiculous place to keep it! I pick it up in case it comes in useful.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is open, but a strong draught threatens to blow it shut at any moment. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous. 'Little pigs! Little pigs!' calls the Big Bad Wolf as he disappears to the west. 'Come on out, there's nothing to be afraid of!'\n\nI'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. A battered old wardrobe stands against the western wall of the cellar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dumbbells", "response": "Normally I could just about lift those, but I'm so weak with hunger at the moment I doubt I could bench press a feather duster. When am I going to get my bloomin' breakfast?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the porridge", "response": "Mmmmm! That porridge tasted JUST RIGHT! I feel thoroughly invigourated; in fact I could toss a few cabers myself if you know what I mean. Wait, that sounded really dodgy. Forget I said it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dumbbells", "response": "Fine, fine, no problem - I'll just balance them on top of my head. What did your last slave die of?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door is open, but a strong draught threatens to blow it shut at any moment. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the medium chair", "response": "Wow - this chair is sooooo soft! I feel as though I'm sinking into a black hole! Oh my god, I am!\nInside the medium-sized chair\nI seem to have sunk deep within the soft, enveloping folds of the medium-sized chair, the place where biscuit crumbs, loose change and other lost items normally accumulate. I can just see a small window of light, the only way out of this warm, stifling floral-print cocoon.\n\nI can see a pair of very thick spectacles here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "I can't move! Something I'm carrying keeps dragging me back into the chair! I don't know how Mama Bear puts up with this!!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the dumbells", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge door with cheese", "response": "Okay, I wedged the door open with the stale cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I am in the bears' tiny kitchen, a cosy little room that could have come straight from the pages of Country Living. It's big on original features and totally lacking in \"mod cons.\" A large dining table sits in the centre of the room and there is a dresser against the wall. Opposite the dresser is an enormous brick fireplace that seems to fill half the room.\nThe Big Bad Wolf is here, doing his best to look mean and dangerous.\n\nOn the dining table are a large bowl (which is empty), a medium-sized bowl (which is empty) and a tiny little bowl of just-right porridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the firewood in the fireplace", "response": "I put the pile of firewood into the fireplace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light firewood", "response": "I strike a match and set fire to the remains of Baby Bear's chair...\n\nAlright! There's a blazing fire in the hearth now. Who says I'm not domesticated? That's only one step away from cooking! And to think they kicked me out of the Girl Scouts!\n'Here, piggy piggy piggy!' says the wolf, wandering off to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cook the pork", "response": "I put the pork chops on the hearth. Wow, they defrosted quickly!\nThe Big Bad Wolf prowls into the room from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the pork to Wolf", "response": "(first taking the packet of medium rare pork chops)\nThe wolf grabs the packet of pork chops and tears off the wrapper, then rolls on the floor gnawing at them like a dog with an old slipper. Moments later, when he has recovered his dignity, he rises to his feet and says\n'My dear girl, that was simply exquisite! I am indebted for you for that delectable dish! If there is anything I can do in return, simply name it, and it will be done! Huffing and puffing a speciality...'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\nThe Big Bad Wolf follows me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\nThe Big Bad Wolf follows me.\n'Ah, my natural habitat!' says the wolf, 'There really is nothing quite like the forest!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\nan oil can\na pair of very thick spectacles\nan old brass key\na bearskin rug\na pendant (providing light and being worn)\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oil secateurs", "response": "Okay, a dash of SUPERLUBE and these babies are as good as new!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm in a clearing. There is a teeny tiny cottage here complete with a thatched roof and leaded windows. It's just like something out of a fairy tale, funnily enough, except for the large hand-painted sign", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "designed to deter trespassers. Just to the north is the front porch. A little path lined by rows of white-painted stones leads around the side of the house to the west.\n\nI'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the cable", "response": "(with the pair of secateurs)\nOkay, I use the secateurs to cut the cable connecting the electrodes to the power supply. Let's see Papa Bear try to fry me now!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the b.", "response": "Okay, Switch B is in the ON position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get remote", "response": "This could be the TV remote control that broke Goldilocks' back, you know! Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\n\n'Ding-Dong!' A bell rings somewhere.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\n\nI can also see a package (which is closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the package", "response": "I open the package, revealing an electric toaster and a leaflet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the toaster and leaflet", "response": "electric toaster: Oh, so you want me to pick up the electric toaster now, on top of everything else? Fine! I'll just tuck it between my knees, shall I?\nleaflet: Oh, so you want me to pick up the leaflet now, on top of everything else? Fine! I'll just tuck it between my knees, shall I?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 9:17 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear spectacles", "response": "I put on the pair of very thick spectacles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the fine print", "response": "Through the glasses I can actually read the microscopic print at the bottom of the page:\n'The Toast-O-Matic 3000 uses a small nuclear reactor for\ninstantaneous toasting satisfaction. However, the unit still requires electricty to initiate the reaction. Under normal circumstances there is no danger of nuclear meltdown. Refer all servicing to a qualified nuclear physicist. The manufacturers take no responsiblity for injury or death resulting from the misuse of this product.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the a.", "response": "(switch A)\nOkay, Switch A is in the OFF position.\nThe lights go off!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na leaflet\nan electric toaster\na TV remote control\nan antimacassar\nan oil can\na pair of very thick spectacles (being worn)\nan old brass key\na bearskin rug\na pendant (providing light and being worn)\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\nsome sticks of dynamite\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "Hmm... The TV's plugged in but the set is completely dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "I get off the large chair.\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on a", "response": "(switch A)\nOkay, Switch A is in the ON position. Down in the cave the toaster elements heat up igniting the fuses on the sticks of dynamite...\n\n...which explode causing a chain reaction...\n\n\"KABOOOOM!!!\"\n\nNUCLEAR EXPLOSION which rocks the whole cottage!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This must be where Papa Bear does all his D.I.Y. It's a small but tidy workshop with a bench and an old filing cabinet in the corner. Pinned to the walls are what appear to be the blueprints for various devices.\n\nOn the bench are a wrench and a tin of gold paint.\nSitting in the middle of the floor is a huge wooden crate, stencilled with the words: \"DANGER: PROTOTYPE!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crate", "response": "A mysterious wooden crate... Looks like Papa Bear does more in his workshop than simply assemble Ikea furniture. The huge wooden crate is nailed shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 9:49 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bench", "response": "It's old and worn, splattered with paint and full of grooves and dents.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock cabinet", "response": "What do you want to unlock the battered old filing cabinet with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open crate", "response": "How? With my bare hands? I just got these nails done you know!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na tin of gold paint\na wrench\na leaflet\na TV remote control\nan antimacassar\nan oil can\na pair of very thick spectacles (being worn)\nan old brass key\na bearskin rug\na pendant (providing light and being worn)\na mousetrap (which is open)\na dead mouse\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\nan overripe pumpkin\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the gloves", "response": "I take off the pair of gardening gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The cave has been completely devastated by the explosion! Where the door used to be there is now a gaping hole in the western wall. The walls of the cave, melted by the intensive heat of my homemade atomic bomb are still glowing faintly. Of the television set there is no sign. The fridge is lying on its side, smoking slightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\n\nI'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a huge bed. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the huge bed", "response": "It's very large and very uncomfortable looking, and is covered by a single rather thin looking blanket. Is this guy some kind of masochist or what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window with the wrench", "response": "Taking the wrench in both hands, I give the catch a good sharp twist. The layers of ancient paint crack and flake off allowing me to open the window. As I do so, a tiny point of light zips into the room from outside! It whizzes two or three times around my head and then, with a sharp 'ping' transforms itself into a tiny little old lady with wings. 'Fear not, Cinderella!' She says, staggering slightly as she\nrecovers from her exertions, 'I am your Fairy Godmother and you shall go to the... to the... oh, what was it now?' She looks up at me, bewildered. 'Who are you? Is it time for my medicine?'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the pumpkin to Godmother", "response": "(my Fairy Godmother)\n'Thankyou dear,' says my Fairy Godmother as I hand her the pumpkin. 'With a wave of my wand I shall transform this pumpkin into a lovely golden coach. Now let me see...' She takes out her wand and waves it over the pumpkin a couple of times, somewhat uncertainly. After a short time the pumpkin begins to swell as though someone were pumping it full of air. Then there is a soft, damp 'plop' as the pumpkin explodes, showering the two of us with orange goo.\n'Oh dear,' says my Fairy Godmother 'that wasn't quite right! Never mind, we'll have to make do without a coach. Perhaps you can ride one of the coach horses...'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the mouse to Godmother", "response": "(my Fairy Godmother)\n(first taking the dead mouse)\n'He's a jolly little chap, isn't he?' Says my Fairy Godmother as I hand over the dead mouse. With a wave of her magic wand she transforms it into a dead coach horse. She seems perfectly satisfied with this outcome. 'Now, child, that's the transport sorted out. Now for the other thing. What was it now...?'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na can of beer\na tin of gold paint\na wrench\na leaflet\na TV remote control\nan antimacassar\nan oil can\na pair of very thick spectacles (being worn)\nan old brass key\na bearskin rug\na pendant (providing light and being worn)\na mousetrap (which is open but empty)\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the horse", "response": "It's as stiff as a board. One for the glue factory I'm afraid. And to think this noble beast died whilst trying to steal a peice of cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the dress to Godmother", "response": "(my Fairy Godmother)\nMy Fairy Godmother doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie on the huge bed", "response": "I lie down on the huge \"bed\" and try to get some sleep, but it's hopelessly uncomfortable. I'd have better luck sleeping on a flagpole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "I get off the huge bed.\n\nI'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at bed", "response": "tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a huge bed. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nLying in the middle of the floor with all four legs pointing heavenward is a dead coach horse.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.\n\nI can also see my Fairy Godmother here.\n\nWhich do you mean, the huge bed, the medium-sized bed or the tiny little bed?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Huge", "response": "It's very large and very uncomfortable looking, and is covered by a single rather thin looking blanket. Is this guy some kind of masochist or what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the blanket", "response": "Wow! Now I understand why the huge bed felt so hard! What better way to conceal from your wife the fact that you've spent your family's entire annual porridge budget on a full sized snooker table than to give up your conjugal rights altogether and disguise it as a bed! Boy, could this couple use some marriage guidance!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You paint the cue ball", "response": "Okay, I painted the cue ball gold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "I'm standing on the porch of the Three Bears' cottage. It would be quite pretty in a rustic sort of way had someone not seen fit to paint it gold. The front door has been wedged open. Just south of me is the clearing in the forest.\nA battered old dustbin sits to one side of the porch.\n\nI can also see a package (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Ball in the pond", "response": "The ball lands in the pond with a dull plop. A few moments later a small green frog emerges from the pond clutching it in one of his slimy flippers. He drops it on the grass in front of me and puckers up expectantly...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss frog", "response": "Yeeeuch! Actually he's not a bad smoocher, I've never kissed anyone before with such a flexible tongue...\nWhoa! There was a flash of light and the frog just turned into a handsome prince!\n'Thanks, babe,' he says, looking me up and down, 'I'd love to hang around but I'm off to find me a real princess - I simply must have a date for the Royal Ball tonight. Maybe we can do lunch sometime!'\nHe runs off towards the forest. I think I preferred him as a frog - less slimy!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a full sized snooker table. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nLying in the middle of the floor with all four legs pointing heavenward is a dead coach horse.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\nFor some unaccountable reason, Sleeping Beauty is lying fast asleep on the tiny little bed.\n\nI can also see my Fairy Godmother here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss frog", "response": "Yeeeuch! Actually he's not a bad smoocher, I've never kissed anyone before with such a flexible tongue...\nWhoa! There was a flash of light and the frog just turned into a handsome prince!\n'Thanks, babe,' he says, looking me up and down, 'I'd love to hang around but I'm off to find me a real princess - I simply must have a date for the Royal Ball tonight. Maybe we can do lunch sometime!' Suddenly he notices Sleeping Beauty sprawled across Baby Bear's\nbed. 'Now that's what I call a REAL princess!' A quick kiss wakes Beauty, and the happy couple are off to the cathedral. That's no basis for a lasting relationship!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 10:39 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the dress", "response": "Oh, yeah, sure. Look, I'm not that kind of girl, okay? Despite what people say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I am carrying:\na rather thin blanket\na can of beer\na tin of gold paint\na wrench\na leaflet\na TV remote control\nan antimacassar\nan oil can\na pair of very thick spectacles (being worn)\nan old brass key\na bearskin rug\na pendant (providing light and being worn)\na mousetrap (which is open but empty)\na matchbox\na spoon\na gigantic bowl\na crumpled note\na small packet (which is open but empty)\na pair of gardening gloves\na trowel\na ratty old paintbrush\na pair of secateurs\na broken bottle\na wristwatch (being worn)\na \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the blanket to Godmother", "response": "(my Fairy Godmother)\nMy Fairy Godmother doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Godmother about yourself", "response": "(my Fairy Godmother about that)\n'Agnes, is that you? Oh, dear...'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Godmother", "response": "(my Fairy Godmother)\nOkay, so technically she's Cinderella's Fairy Godmother, but what she doesn't know won't hurt her. She's a tiny little woman who must be ninety years old if she's a day. She's wearing what I can only describe as a heavily sequined ballerina's outfit which looks hideously wrinkled on her shrivelled frame. Top this off with surgical support stockings and a pair of cardboard wings stuck on with sellotape, and you get the picture.\nMy Fairy Godmother is carrying a magic wand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "(1) How do I open the crate?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with Cinderella's Fairy Godmother?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Pretend you're Cinderella.\nAnother Hint? [Y/N]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Give her what she wants!\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) How do I open the crate?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with Cinderella's Fairy Godmother?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You need a little leverage.\nNo more hints!\n\n(1) How do I open the crate?\n(2) How do I open the window?\n(3) What should I do with Cinderella's Fairy Godmother?\n(4) How do I make sure the bears don't find me when they get home?\n(5) Is there any way to extend the time limit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This must be where Papa Bear does all his D.I.Y. It's a small but tidy workshop with a bench and an old filing cabinet in the corner. Pinned to the walls are what appear to be the blueprints for various devices. Sitting in the middle of the floor is a huge wooden crate, stencilled with the words: \"DANGER: PROTOTYPE!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the crate", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bench", "response": "It's old and worn, splattered with paint and full of grooves and dents.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pry crate", "response": "What do you want to pry the huge wooden crate with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "I get off the large chair.\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "I'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\n\nI'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. A battered old wardrobe stands against the western wall of the cellar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wardrobe", "response": "An old wooden wardrobe with brass handles that looks like it's seen better days. Probably why it's in the cellar. There's a gentle breeze coming from behind the wardrobe! The wardrobe is completely empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move it", "response": "Okay.... Oof! I moved it. Oh, wow! There's a gothic archway behind here leading into some kind of hidden room! The words 'Baby Bear's Playroom' are painted above the arch!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I'm in a dark passage carved into the rock. It curves around to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This seems to be a small annex to the main part of the cellar. Everything about the decor of this place says 'dungeon' to me, from the guttering torches to the ragrolled paint effect on the walls that's meant to look like ancient stonework. Unfortunately the rotting skeleton manacled to the wall is only too real. A sign on the wall opposite the skeleton says 'When we say NO TRESPASSERS we mean NO TRESPASSERS!' Something for the bears' victims to think about while they languish in this dump. The passage leads south back to the cellar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skeleton", "response": "It's wearing a red cape with a hood. I guess this must be the elusive Little Red Riding Hood! No wonder she never made it to Grandma's house - she must have called at the wrong cottage by mistake, poor little twerp!\nHmm, what's this? There appears to be a blackened metal poker\nshoved up her, um, actually you don't want to know where it was shoved. Ouch.\n\nI've taken the poker in case it comes in useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. There's a gothic archway leading out of the cellar to the west. A battered old wardrobe stands close to the archway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the chair", "response": "It is about 11:22 AM.\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.\n\nWhich do you mean, the large chair, the medium-sized chair or the tiny little chair?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pry the crate with the poker", "response": "Using the poker like a crowbar I wrench the crate apart at the seams. It collapses to reveal a strange cauldron-like contraption inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cauldron", "response": "It's a huge Heath-Robinson-esque contraption that looks like a cross between a witch's cauldron and Stevenson's Rocket. The cauldron part is covered in arcane symbols and looks big enough to boil an elephant! The magic porridge pot is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pot", "response": "The magic porridge pot is far too big and heavy for me to carry! There must be another way of moving it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The cave has been completely devastated by the explosion! Where the door used to be there is now a gaping hole in the western wall. The walls of the cave, melted by the intensive heat of my homemade atomic bomb are still glowing faintly. Of the television set there is no sign. The fridge is lying on its side, smoking slightly.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.\n\nI'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.\n\nI'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. There's a gothic archway leading out of the cellar to the west. A battered old wardrobe stands close to the archway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the washing machine with the poker", "response": "I jam the poker in the door of the machine and give it a good hard push. There is a sharp crack and the door flies open! Who was it said that brute force never achieved anything?\n\nHowever, the washing machine contains nothing but sludge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the sludge", "response": "Hidden in the sludge at the bottom of the drum, I find a small key, which I take.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the key", "response": "Which do you mean, the tiny metal key or the old brass key?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Bloody hell! This has got to be the hardest chair I've ever sat in! I've only been here two seconds and my buttocks are as numb as a pair of frozen fishcakes!\n(the chair's button)\nWhoa! A hole just opened up in the floor and the chair is carrying me down into the bowels of the earth! It's just like something out of a James Bond film!\n\nOuch! - it's stopped...\n\nThe cave has been completely devastated by the explosion! Where the door used to be there is now a gaping hole in the western wall. The walls of the cave, melted by the intensive heat of my homemade atomic bomb are still glowing faintly. Of the television set there is no sign. The fridge is lying on its side, smoking slightly.\n\nThe jolt threw me out of the chair - I guess the mechanism was designed for someone much heavier than me!\nI can't go in that direction, but I can move west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This must be where Papa Bear does all his D.I.Y. It's a small but tidy workshop with a bench and an old filing cabinet in the corner. Pinned to the walls are what appear to be the blueprints for various devices. Sitting amidst the wreckage of the crate is a magic porridge pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tiny", "response": "I unlock the battered old filing cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "I open the battered old filing cabinet, revealing a warranty and a set of instructions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read warranty", "response": "It's a year's warranty for a small self-assembly chair. Looks like it expired yesterday, what a shame!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the instructions", "response": "It appears to be the operating instructions for a magic porridge pot. They seem to be fairly straightforward. \"To start the pot, say ALAKAZAM. To stop the pot, say ALAKAZOO.\" There's a note at the bottom to the effect that the stop spell is extremely tempermental and that the pot should under no circumstances be used in confined spaces!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "ALAKAZAM", "response": "'ALAKAZAM!'\nImmediately the magic porridge pot begins to fill up with extremely hot porridge. It just sort of swirls up from the bottom of the pot like an expensive special effect. Within seconds the pot is full and the porridge begins to run down the sides...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Not only has Papa Bear's secret den been devastated by a nuclear explosion, but it is also rapidly filling up with porridge which is gushing in through the ravaged doorway to the west. Of the television set there is no sign. The fridge is lying on its side, smoking slightly.\nThe room is rapidly filling up with boiling-hot porridge! I think it might be a good idea to get the hell out of here!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the chair", "response": "Bloody hell! This has got to be the hardest chair I've ever sat in! I've only been here two seconds and my buttocks are as numb as a pair of frozen fishcakes!\nThe porridge level creeps steadily higher until finally it is up to my neck! Like quicksand it gradually sucks me under...\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 78 out of a possible 100, in 417 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Not only has Papa Bear's secret den been devastated by a nuclear explosion, but it is also rapidly filling up with porridge which is gushing in through the ravaged doorway to the west. Of the television set there is no sign. The fridge is lying on its side, smoking slightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the chair", "response": "Bloody hell! This has got to be the hardest chair I've ever sat in! I've only been here two seconds and my buttocks are as numb as a pair of frozen fishcakes!\nThe room is rapidly filling up with boiling-hot porridge! I think it might be a good idea to get the hell out of here!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Alakazoo", "response": "Nothing happens. I think that's the spell to stop the pot from boiling!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Alakazoo", "response": "'ALAKAZOO!' I shout at the top of my lungs. At first nothing seems to be happening, but after a few moments the flow of porridge slows down, and finally stops. The remaining porridge trickles away through cracks in the cave floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the porridge", "response": "That's plainly inedible.\nI'm feeling really sleepy...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pot", "response": "The magic porridge pot is far too big and heavy for me to carry! There must be another way of moving it.\nI can hardly keep my eyes open...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pry the cauldron with the poker", "response": "That doesn't seem to be something I can unlock.\nSo tired...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 11:28 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "It is about 10:39 AM.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a full sized snooker table. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nLying in the middle of the floor with all four legs pointing heavenward is a dead coach horse.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.\n\nI can also see my Fairy Godmother here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Godmother about the dress", "response": "(my Fairy Godmother about that)\n'Oh, yes dear - that was it,' says my Fairy Godmother, 'You can't possibly go to the ball looking like that!' I'm a little offended by this but decide to bite my lip. 'Wait a second while I reprogram my wand.' After a few moments she raises the wand and waves it frantically as though it were stuck to her hand and she were desperate to get rid of it. There is a sudden, bright flash and my dress disappears in a puff of smoke!\n'Oh dear,' says my Fairy Godmother with a frown, 'that's not the rags-to-ballgown spell, it's the one for moving stuff down to the cellar, I used it last weekend when I cleared out the spare room. I'm sorry my dear, I shall have to go home and get my spell book. I'd forget my wings if they were't sellotaped on.' There is another flash and she turns back into a tiny point of light, before flitting back out of the window. As she does so, something silvery clatters to the floor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You descend", "response": "I'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. A battered old wardrobe stands against the western wall of the cellar.\n\nI can see a \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "I put on the \"distressed\" Laura Ashley dress.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I'm in a dark passage carved into the rock. It curves around to the north.\n\nI'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. There's a gothic archway leading out of the cellar to the west. A battered old wardrobe stands close to the archway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the machine with the poker", "response": "I jam the poker in the door of the machine and give it a good hard push. There is a sharp crack and the door flies open! Who was it said that brute force never achieved anything?\n\nHowever, the washing machine contains nothing but sludge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sludge", "response": "Hidden in the sludge at the bottom of the drum, I find a small key, which I take.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wave the wand at the pot", "response": "There is a bright flash and the magic porridge pot vanishes in a puff of smoke!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "I'll have to get off the large chair first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at watch", "response": "It is about 11:07 AM.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I get off the large chair.\n\nFrom its floral carpet to its lovingly dusted knick-knacks, The Three Bears' sitting room is a chintzy abomination of taste, the sort of room that would make any sane bear want to go back and live in a cave. Two chairs are arranged around small coffee table; a large chair and a medium-sized chair. There used to be a tiny little chair but I'd rather not talk about it. There's a low-pitched hum coming from somewhere.\n\nOn the small coffee table is a copy of 'Hail!' magazine.\n\nI'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. There's a gothic archway leading out of the cellar to the west. A battered old wardrobe stands close to the archway.\nThe magic porridge pot is sitting in the middle of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "ALAKAZAM", "response": "'ALAKAZAM!'\nImmediately the magic porridge pot begins to fill up with extremely hot porridge. It just sort of swirls up from the bottom of the pot like an expensive special effect. Within seconds the pot is full and the porridge begins to run down the sides...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "I scramble up the rickety steps just in time - a moment later the lower part of the staircase is smashed to splinters by a wave of bubbling porridge. I look back to see the cellar completely submerged in boiling oatmeal.\n\nI'm in the entrance hall of the Three Bears' house. Hung around the walls are portraits of various members of the Bear clan, along with some highly disturbing hunting trophies. A narrow staircase leads up to the bears' bedroom. The front door has been wedged open. Just inside the front door is an open trapdoor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trapdoor", "response": "The trapdoor is open. Steps lead down into darkness.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "I'm in a dingy cellar with bare brick walls and the musty smell of a laundry room. There is an old upright washing machine in the corner and a fusebox on the wall. Steps lead up to the trapdoor in the ceiling. There's a gothic archway leading out of the cellar to the west. A battered old wardrobe stands close to the archway. The room is rapidly filling up with boiling-hot porridge. The washing machine and the wardrobe are already half submerged!\nThe magic porridge pot is sitting in the middle of the room.\nThe porridge level creeps steadily higher until finally it is up to my neck! Like quicksand it gradually sucks me under...\nOh, bollocks. I'm dead!\nI have so far scored 87 out of a possible 100, in 376 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Alakazoo", "response": "Nothing special happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rug on the trapdoor", "response": "Okay, I placed the rug over the trapdoor, so that it looks exactly as before - except that the trapdoor is open!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "I'm in the Three Bears' bedroom, a small attic room with steeply sloping walls. They have the weirdest sleeping arrangements. There's a tiny little bed, a medium-sized bed and a full sized snooker table. A narrow staircase leads down to the hall.\nLying in the middle of the floor with all four legs pointing heavenward is a dead coach horse.\nA tiny dormer window looks out onto the clearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie on the tiny bed", "response": "The tiny little bed is so comfortable that I fall into a deep sleep the instant my head hits the pillow. Not even the muffled cry as the Three Bears fall through the trapdoor into the cellar and drown in a mire of their own porridge can rouse me from my sleep.\nAt just after noon I have a strange dream. Three ghostly bears, each with a pair of wings and holding a golden harp, float up through the bedroom floorboards. Papa Bear hovers above me like a translucent bear-shaped cloud, glaring at me through baleful yellow eyes.\n'Who's been sleeping in my bed?' he growls, his hot, stinky breath\non my face.\n'Who's been sleeping in my bed?' snarls Mama Bear nudging her\nhusband out of the way.\n'Mater, Pater,' says Baby Bear who has obviously had the benefit of\na public school education, 'it's patently obvious who has been sleeping in our beds, eating our porridge and destroying our furniture, since the shameless hussy is still sprawled across my cot. But it's all academic now - we're dead! The little monster got the better of us this time! Come, parents, I hear that heaven is full of succulent young ladies such as this and that the clouds are made of porridge!' With that the Three Bears float up through the ceiling and on to paradise.\n\nA few moments later, they're back again, wingless now and dropping like stones towards the fires of hell. The last I hear of them is the anguished cry\n\n'No! Please! Not the poker!'\n\nI awake at around six, having had a full night's, or rather day's sleep, fresh as a daisy and ready for another night of partying!\n\nThat's if I can ever find my way out of the enchanted forest...\n\n...but that's another story! The important thing is, our plan\nworked! The Three Bears are no more and foxy young chicks are free to roam the forest and break into quaint little cottages without fear of ending up as a Bondage Barbie for a family of furry freaks! Thanks for all your help, I sure as hell couldn't have done it without you!\n\nI have so far scored 91 out of a possible 100, in 780 turns.\n\nWould I like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, give the FULL score for that game or QUIT?", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "achievements", "dog", "East Asian setting", "I7 source available", "ShuffleComp" ]

[ 0, 3, 2, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Several weeks of travel have brought me to Mount Shanshan. The last ride I was able to get was a goods truck to a small village at the base of the mountain. Then it was a long hike up the mountain along badly maintained roads and footpaths.\n\nThe road ends here at an abandoned cable car platform. The cableway leads directly to my destination. I must get it running, somehow.\n\n\n\n\n\nA rickety wooden platform is built on the edge of a cliff to serve as an station for a cable car ride up to the mountain. It overlooks a beautiful waterfall rumbling below.\n\nThe road leads back east and the cableway's engine is in a shack just to the south.\n\nA cable car is docked to the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cable car", "response": "The cable car is large enough to comfortably fit about four passengers. The red paint coating is peeling away in large flakes and rust is corroding the body.\n\nIt's hard to see through the dirty windows but it seems like there's a simple control panel inside.\n\nA iron bar attaches the car to the platform and at the same time locks the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "The iron bar blocks the door from opening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the bar", "response": "It's attached with large bolts. It can't be removed without tools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the platform", "response": "The wooden platform serves as a docking and embarkment area for the cable car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the waterfall", "response": "The waterfall rumbles down the mountainside and raises a cloud of mist where it hits the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The wooden shack houses a large diesel generator that moves the cableway. The shack's walls are rotten and patchy. The exit leads back out to the north.\n\nThe diesel generator looks like it hasn't been used in quite some while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine generator", "response": "The diesel generator is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the generator", "response": "The engine coughs a few times but refuses to start. A quick troubleshooting indicates that the cylinders are so dirty that the engine can't run. They need to be cleaned first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean cylinders", "response": "(with the shack walls)\nThe shack walls isn't suitable for cleaning the cylinders with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A rickety wooden platform is built on the edge of a cliff to serve as an station for a cable car ride up to the mountain. It overlooks a beautiful waterfall rumbling below.\n\nThe road leads back east and the cableway's engine is in a shack just to the south.\n\nA cable car is docked to the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I walk the road back to an old hotel I passed on the way here.\n\nI am at the gates of an old country-style mansion that has at some point served as a hotel. At the moment there are no signs of it being in use. The garden has overgrown, there are no cars about and the building itself is in a dilapidated state.\n\nThe hotel gates are to the north, the cable car platform to the west, and the hiking path leading back down the mountain is to the east.\n\nAn angry dog is barking at me behind the gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dog", "response": "The dog is big and menacing, a mutt or perhaps even a Chongqing. He's barking viciously behind the gates. His short fur is filthy and largely covered in dirt.\n\nThere must be a way.\n\n(Find a quiet place to MEDITATE.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You meditate", "response": "The rumbling of the waterfall makes it impossible to meditate here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The wooden shack houses a large diesel generator that moves the cableway. The shack's walls are rotten and patchy. The exit leads back out to the north.\n\nThe diesel generator looks like it hasn't been used in quite some while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I am at the gates of an old country-style mansion that has at some point served as a hotel. At the moment there are no signs of it being in use. The garden has overgrown, there are no cars about and the building itself is in a dilapidated state.\n\nThe hotel gates are to the north, the cable car platform to the west, and the hiking path leading back down the mountain is to the east.\n\nAn angry dog is barking at me behind the gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A scenic hiking path leads back down the mountain. I know it all too well, having walked it up here in the first place. The way back to the hotel is to the west.\n\nTwo small stone statues depicting a lion and a dragon are greeting visitors on both sides of the path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lion", "response": "The statue is not very tall and is carved from solid black stone. It's set here by the path as a decoration for passersby. This one depicts a lion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dragon", "response": "The statue is not very tall and is carved from solid black stone. It's set here by the path as a decoration for passersby. This one depicts a dragon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You meditate", "response": "cheapglulxe quit with exit status: 1", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "Several weeks of travel have brought me to Mount Shanshan. The last ride I was able to get was a goods truck to a small village at the base of the mountain. Then it was a long hike up the mountain along badly maintained roads and footpaths.\n\nThe road ends here at an abandoned cable car platform. The cableway leads directly to my destination. I must get it running, somehow.\n\n\n\n\n\nA rickety wooden platform is built on the edge of a cliff to serve as an station for a cable car ride up to the mountain. It overlooks a beautiful waterfall rumbling below.\n\nThe road leads back east and the cableway's engine is in a shack just to the south.\n\nA cable car is docked to the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The wooden shack houses a large diesel generator that moves the cableway. The shack's walls are rotten and patchy. The exit leads back out to the north.\n\nThe diesel generator looks like it hasn't been used in quite some while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You meditate", "response": "\"What do you seek?\"\n\n\"I seek the truth, shifu.\"\n\nShe hit me on the fingers with the head of her cane, like many\ntimes before.\n\n\"You say you seek the truth, but only lies come out your own\nmouth. What do you seek?\"\n\nThe memory fades and the mind is silent.\n\nMeditation revealed the following truth:\n\n(With this information you can CHANGE things INTO their\ncounterpart identities. You can also THINK to recall previously learned information.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I am at the gates of an old country-style mansion that has at some point served as a hotel. At the moment there are no signs of it being in use. The garden has overgrown, there are no cars about and the building itself is in a dilapidated state.\n\nThe hotel gates are to the north, the cable car platform to the west, and the hiking path leading back down the mountain is to the east.\n\nAn angry dog is barking at me behind the gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You change the dog into the flute", "response": "I clear my mind and concentrate on the dog, imagining its counterpart nature. The truth becomes obvious -- a dog is a flute, and a flute is a dog, and there is no difference between the two. Sparkles start flying from all over the dog as the Universe bends to accept the reality I have discovered.\n\nThe sparkling stops and where the dog used to stand, there's a small koudi flute lying on the grass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the flute", "response": "The flute is in the garden behind the gate, beyond my reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open gate", "response": "I open the gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Weeds have taken over the garden, which seems to have been designed in a distinctly Japanese style. It must have been very beautiful in its heyday.\n\nThe hotel entrance is to the north and the gates to the south.\n\nA flute lies on the grass near the gate.\n\nIn the center of the garden is a murky pond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take flute", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pond", "response": "The pond is full of muddy water, but I can see a fish, probably a koi, swimming around in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the koi", "response": "The koi swims around in the pond, looking a bit lonely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wash flute in the pond", "response": "I clean the flute the best I can using the water from the pond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the flute", "response": "Remembering what it used to be, I reluctantly put the flute on my lips and blow. The air escapes through the fingerholes. There must be a blockage inside the flute somewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The view in the hotel lobby confirms that the establishment has been deserted for a long time. The lobby has an abandoned reception desk, some sofas and dead house plants. There's a layer of dust everywhere.\n\nThere's a staircase to the north leading up and a closed door leading east.\n\nA large wardrobe for coats has fallen over near the entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plants", "response": "The leaves have fallen off the plants and are now only dead branches. They're beyond resuscitation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wardrobe", "response": "It's fallen over on its door. I can't open it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You meditate", "response": "\"What do you seek?\"\n\n\"I seek power, shifu.\"\n\nThere is no slap on the fingers this time.\n\nThe memory fades and I am ready to learn.\n\nMeditation revealed the following truths:", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "This is the corridor where the hotel's guest rooms are. There are seven doors in total. To the south the staircase leads back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Which do you mean, door 101, door 102, door 103, door 104, door 105, door 106 or door 107?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open 101", "response": "The door seems to be locked. Brief testing confirms that the same is true for every door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go D", "response": "The lobby has an abandoned reception desk, some sofas and dead house plants. There's a layer of dust everywhere.\n\nThere's a staircase to the north leading up and a closed door leading east.\n\nA large wardrobe for coats has fallen over near the entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first opening the door)\nI try the doorknob, but the door is locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You change the doorknob into the umbrella", "response": "The doorknob sparkles and turns into an umbrella. The umbrella is now sticking out the door where the knob used to be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the door)\nI pull on the umbrella, but it comes loose.\n\nThe door's lock mechanism has nothing to support it anymore and falls apart. The door should be unlocked now.\n\nA large dining hall full of empty tables is a sad sight. Some rays of light filter in through the dirty windows.\n\nThere's a pair of dumbwaiters on the farthest wall and a hand crank in the space between them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dumbwaiter", "response": "Which do you mean, the left dumbwaiter or the right dumbwaiter?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the left dumbwaiter", "response": "The dumbwaiters are an old elevator system for lifting food from the kitchen and then lowering dirty dishes back. They are small wooden compartments running inside the wall and supported by a rope.\n\nThe single crank on the wall suggests that they are connected with a common rope and pulley system and lowering one will raise the other.\n\nIn the left dumbwaiter is a chopstick.\n\nThere's a closed grid door in front of the compartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take chopstick", "response": "I put a finger through one of the holes in the grid door, manage to reach the chopstick and pull it out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the chopstick in the flute", "response": "(clearing the flute with the chopstick)\nUsing the chopstick, the wad of dirt that was blocking the flute pops cleanly out. That must be a relief to the dog as well.\n\n[Achievement unlocked: Veterinarian]\n\n(Command ACHIEVEMENTS to see a list of your achievements.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "(the grid door)\nThe door is rusted stuck. It's unlikely that I can get it open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "Meditation has revealed the following truths:\n\ndoorknob equals umbrella", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The lobby has an abandoned reception desk, some sofas and dead house plants. There's a layer of dust everywhere.\n\nThere's a staircase to the north leading up and a door leading east to the dining hall.\n\nA large wardrobe for coats has fallen over near the entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A large dining hall full of empty tables is a sad sight. Some rays of light filter in through the dirty windows.\n\nThere's a pair of dumbwaiters on the farthest wall and a hand crank in the space between them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Weeds have taken over the garden, which seems to have been designed in a distinctly Japanese style. It must have been very beautiful in its heyday.\n\nThe hotel entrance is to the north and the gates to the south.\n\nIn the center of the garden is a murky pond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You change the koi into the tornado", "response": "The fish starts to sparkle under the water. It soon disappears and a tall water spout forms in its place. The spout makes it out of the pond and manages to travel a meter or two before dissipating and releasing the water as a rain on the garden, getting my clothes wet.\n\nI look in the now almost empty pond and see a glint of metal. There seems to be a key stuck in the mud. Some hotel guest must have dropped it there by accident.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock 101", "response": "(with the room key)\nThat doesn't seem to fit the lock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock 102", "response": "(with the room key)\nI unlock door 102.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the key", "response": "A wooden key fob is attached to the key. Water has turned it almost illegible but I can still make out the number \"102\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open 102", "response": "I open door 102.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inside", "response": "The hotel room is spartan, with only the most necessary furniture. The scene through the window is beautiful, though. There's a direct view to the waterfall I saw earlier.\n\nI can see a bedside table (on which are a sanitary napkin and a tube of lipstick) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "sanitary napkin: Taken.\nlipstick: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You meditate", "response": "\"The Universe has shown you some of its secrets,\" she says,\ncasually turning a flower into a guitar, as if to underline a point. \"But the key to true enlightenment is to observe the Pattern and to understand it.\"\n\nFinally I push aside the distracting memories.\n\nMeditation revealed the following truth:", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "Meditation has revealed the following truths:\n\ndoorknob equals umbrella\nsanitary napkin equals monkey wrench", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "The bed is made and a layer of dust is on the covers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "This is the corridor where the hotel's guest rooms are. There are seven doors in total, of which I've unlocked door 102. To the south the staircase leads back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I am at the gates of an old country-style mansion that has at some point served as a hotel. At the moment there are no signs of it being in use. The garden has overgrown, there are no cars about and the building itself is in a dilapidated state.\n\nThe hotel gates are to the north, the cable car platform to the west, and the hiking path leading back down the mountain is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the flute", "response": "The flute has a low, dark sound to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the flute", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the gate", "response": "I close the gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the flute into the Dog", "response": "The flute sparkles and is soon changed back into the dog, who resumes barking after noticing me.\n\n[Achievement unlocked: Clean Dog]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine pad", "response": "The sanitary napkin is, thankfully, unused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the pad into the wrench", "response": "The sanitary napkin sparkles for a brief moment before changing into a monkey wrench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the bar", "response": "The iron bar is attached to the cable car and to the platform with large bolts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the bolts with the wrench", "response": "I put the monkey wrench on a bolt, adjust it to fit and turn. The bolt snaps with a cloud of rust flakes and starts to turn free. The nut on the other side turns with the bolt. I try to hold the nut still but can't get a good grip; I need a glove or something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na monkey wrench (which equals sanitary napkin)\na tube of lipstick\na room key\na chopstick\nan umbrella (which equals doorknob)\n\nI have some information about the nature of the universe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn wrench into the pad", "response": "The monkey wrench sparkles for a brief moment before changing into a sanitary napkin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean the generator with the pad", "response": "The sanitary napkin would be perfect for cleaning the cylinders, but the grit is too sturdily stuck. I need something to soften it first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wet pad", "response": "What do you want to wet the sanitary napkin with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Waterfall", "response": "The waterfall is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the Dog into the flute", "response": "The dog sparkles for a brief moment before changing into a flute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open gate", "response": "I open the gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Weeds have taken over the garden, which seems to have been designed in a distinctly Japanese style. It must have been very beautiful in its heyday.\n\nThe hotel entrance is to the north and the gates to the south.\n\nIn the center of the garden is a murky pond.\n\nI can also see a flute here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wet pad with water", "response": "There's still enough water in the pond to wet the sanitary napkin. It's now soaked with muddy pond water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean generator with the pad", "response": "The dirt is stuck to the parts too hard. I need something stronger than water to clean it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crank", "response": "The crank is placed so that it's evidently used to raise and lower the dumbwaiters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the crank", "response": "The crank seems to be stuck and after applying some more force it snaps off into my hand. I place it down and curse my bad luck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crank", "response": "The crank was apparently used to raise and lower dumbwaiters in the dining hall. Now it's broken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inside", "response": "The hotel room is spartan, with only the most necessary furniture. The scene through the window is beautiful, though. There's a direct view to the waterfall I saw earlier.\n\nI can see a bedside table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the waterfall", "response": "The waterfall rumbles down the mountainside and raises a cloud of mist where it hits the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na crank\na flute (which equals dog)\na sanitary napkin (which equals monkey wrench)\na tube of lipstick\na room key\na chopstick\nan umbrella (which equals doorknob)\n\nI have some information about the nature of the universe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the flute", "response": "The flute has a low, dark sound to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "There's a view of the waterfall through the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dust", "response": "There's a layer of dust on every surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lipstick", "response": "It's a tube of red lipstick, a bit too bright shade for my tastes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wardrobe", "response": "A wardrobe, presumably meant for storing casual visitors' coats, has fallen over.\n\nA single leather glove has been pinned under the top corner of the wardrobe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the glove", "response": "The glove is pinned under the wardrobe. I can't get it loose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You meditate", "response": "Meditation revealed the following truth:", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You change the glove into the cantaloupe", "response": "I concentrate and focus on changing the glove. There's more resistance than usual, but finally the glove gives in. A cantaloupe appears in its place and half of it is immediately squashed under the wardrobe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "cantaloupe: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You change the cantaloupe into the glove", "response": "The cantaloupe sparkles for a brief moment before changing into a glove.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glove", "response": "A part of the glove is cut off, but most of it is still intact. Wearing it won't be very fashionable, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear glove", "response": "I put on the glove.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bolt", "response": "Large bolts attach the iron bar to the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the bolt with the wrench", "response": "The sanitary napkin sparkles for a brief moment before changing into a monkey wrench.\n\nWith the gloved hand holding the nuts opposite the bolts in place I am able to unscrew the bolts and free the car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the car", "response": "The cable car is large enough to comfortably fit about four passengers. The red paint coating is peeling away in large flakes and rust is corroding the body.\n\nIt's hard to see through the dirty windows but it seems like there's a simple control panel inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "I open the cable car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter car", "response": "I get into the cable car.\n\nA control panel has been set to the wall opposite the door. It has a lever that most likely gets the thing moving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine panel", "response": "A control panel has been set to the wall opposite the door. It has a lever that most likely gets the thing moving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "Nothing happens. I must get the engine that moves the cableway running first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "I get out of the cable car.\n\nA rickety wooden platform is built on the edge of a cliff to serve as an station for a cable car ride up to the mountain. It overlooks a beautiful waterfall rumbling below.\n\nThe road leads back east and the cableway's engine is in a shack just to the south.\n\nA cable car is docked to the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the lipstick on the pad", "response": "(applying the lipstick to the sanitary napkin)\nThere's no real reason to smear the lipstick on the sanitary napkin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the glove into the cantaloupe", "response": "The glove sparkles for a brief moment before changing into a cantaloupe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cantaloupe", "response": "The other half of the cantaloupe has been crushed by a wardrobe, after it had already been toppled. Deep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The lobby has an abandoned reception desk, some sofas and dead house plants. There's a layer of dust everywhere.\n\nThere's a staircase to the north leading up and a door leading east to the dining hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wardrobe", "response": "A wardrobe, presumably meant for storing casual visitors' coats, has fallen over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A large dining hall full of empty tables is a sad sight. Some rays of light filter in through the dirty windows.\n\nThere's a pair of dumbwaiters on the farthest wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dumbwaiters", "response": "Which do you mean, the left dumbwaiter or the right dumbwaiter?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine right dumbwaiter", "response": "The dumbwaiters are an old elevator system for lifting food from the kitchen and then lowering dirty dishes back. They are small wooden compartments running inside the wall and supported by a rope.\n\nThe single crank on the wall suggested that they are connected with a common rope and pulley system and lowering one will raise the other.\n\nThe right dumbwaiter is lowered beyond reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the crank", "response": "The crank is beyond repair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the left dumbwaiter", "response": "The dumbwaiters are an old elevator system for lifting food from the kitchen and then lowering dirty dishes back. They are small wooden compartments running inside the wall and supported by a rope.\n\nThe single crank on the wall suggested that they are connected with a common rope and pulley system and lowering one will raise the other.\n\nThe left dumbwaiter is empty.\n\nThere's a closed grid door in front of the compartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am carrying:\na cantaloupe (which equals glove)\na sanitary napkin (which equals monkey wrench)\na crank\na flute (which equals dog)\na tube of lipstick\na room key\na chopstick\nan umbrella (which equals doorknob)\n\nI have some information about the nature of the universe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flute in the left dumbwaiter", "response": "I put the flute into the left dumbwaiter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You change the flute into the Dog", "response": "The flute sparkles and turns back into the dog. The dog seems a bit confused, but before he can orient himself his weight pushes the dumbwaiter down and the right dumbwaiter rises. There's a sausage on a plate and a bottle in the revealed compartment.\n\nI can hear the dog barking somewhere below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "bottle of gin: Taken.\nplate: Taken.\nsausage: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gin", "response": "There's still some gin left in the bottom of the bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plate", "response": "The plate is tastefully decorated with a flower theme.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You meditate", "response": "It's some kind of long salami-style sausage. Salt has preserved it comparably well, but it's still rancid enough to not be edible.\n\nThe barking of the dog makes it impossible to meditate here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You change the Dog into the flute", "response": "The dog is in the left dumbwaiter, which is out of my reach at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "I am carrying:\na sausage\na plate\na bottle of gin\na cantaloupe (which equals glove)\na sanitary napkin (which equals monkey wrench)\na crank\na tube of lipstick\na room key\na chopstick\nan umbrella (which equals doorknob)\n\nI have some information about the nature of the universe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the gin on the pad", "response": "I squeeze the water out of the sanitary napkin and pour what's left of the gin on it. It soaks it all up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean cylinder with pad", "response": "Cleaning the generator is hard work, but after a while the moving parts look clean enough. After spending some considerable amount of additional tinkering the generator starts to look like it could work again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the generator", "response": "The generator makes some suspicious noises but then comes to life. The cableway starts moving again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A rickety wooden platform is built on the edge of a cliff to serve as an station for a cable car ride up to the mountain. It overlooks a beautiful waterfall rumbling below. The cableway is moving.\n\nThe road leads back east and the cableway's engine is in a shack just to the south.\n\nA cable car is docked to the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "(inside the cable car)\nI get into the cable car.\n\nA control panel has been set to the wall opposite the door. It has a lever that most likely gets the thing moving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "The mechanism on top of the car latches on to the cableway and the car jolts on moving.\n\nAfter a brief but scenic ride the car stops.\n\nMountain top (in the cable car)\nThe cable car has reached its destination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "(first opening the cable car door)\nI step out the cable car and see the shrine a short way from the platform. To my surprise the Master is sitting cross-legged in front of the shrine.\n\n\"Shifu,\" I greet and bow deep.\n\n\"Welcome, apprentice,\" she says. \"Have you learned the Pattern?\"\n\n1) Everything has both good and evil in them\n2) Things can be turned into their exact opposites\n3) Reality is an illusion\n4) There is no pattern\n5) I don't know the answer\n\n?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "She swings her cane faster than I can react and hits me hard on my left shin.\n\n\"Did that feel like an illusion? What is the Pattern?\"\n\n1) Everything has both good and evil in them\n2) Things can be turned into their exact opposites\n3) Reality is an illusion\n4) There is no pattern\n5) I don't know the answer\n\n?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "\"I really don't know,\" I say. \"I turned a dog into a flute, and a fish into a tornado, and a sanitary pad into a monkey wrench, and I just can't see what the pattern is. There's nothing that connects them, it's as if it's all completely random. Anything can be changed into anything and...\"\n\nThe Master closes her eyes and nods.\n\nUnderstanding comes to me. \"Anything can be changed into anything.\"\n\nAt that moment I am enlightened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Achievements", "response": "You have unlocked the following achievements:\n\nClean Dog: Washed the dog.\nVeterinarian: Cured the dog.\n\nThese achievements are still unlocked:\n\n- Art Collector\n- Clown Dog\n- First Guess\n- Full Belly\n- Not a Drop\n- Ride with a Friend\n- Wet Dog\n\nUnlock all achievements for a bonus extended ending.\n\nWould you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, QUIT, UNDO the last command or list your ACHIEVEMENTS?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the car", "response": "[Please answer with a number between 1 and 5]\n\n?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "She closes her eyes. \"You do know the answer. Try again.\"\n\n1) Everything has both good and evil in them\n2) Things can be turned into their exact opposites\n3) Reality is an illusion\n4) There is no pattern\n5) I don't know the answer\n\n?", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "divine protagonist", "freeform input", "JavaScript source available", "Multiplayer", "multiple endings", "music", "religion", "Replayable", "user generated content", "Xyzzy Awards 2013" ]

[ 8, 11, 6, 6, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You are about to play the text-only version of Ex Nihilo. If\n\nfrom the multimedia features, this version is missing a \"magic ingredient\" which is impossible to replicate offline.\n\nThe usual parser is replaced by a keyword interface. Play by typing capitalized keywords or as otherwise instructed.\n\nIn the beginning there was nothing.\n\nFrom nothing LIGHT and DARKNESS were born.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Light", "response": "I watched the universe define itself around me. Particles, atoms and molecules engaged in an intricate dance formed more and more complex structures.\n\nFor eons I was ALONE.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "%", "response": "You are about to play the text-only version of Ex Nihilo. If at all possible, you are encouraged to play the full online version at\n\nthe multimedia features, this version is missing a \"magic ingredient\" which is impossible to replicate offline.\n\nThe usual parser is replaced by a keyword interface. Play by typing capitalized keywords or as otherwise instructed.\n\nIn the beginning there was nothing.\n\nFrom nothing LIGHT and DARKNESS were born.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Alone", "response": "\"ALONE\" is not a valid keyword at the moment.\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Anxious", "response": "I was anxious to find a purpose.\n\nI scoured the universe but found no solace.\n\nUntil I stumbled upon a world home to a curious kind of creatures who were ready to accept CONTROL and INFLUENCE.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Influence", "response": "They were like clay in my grip, fulfilling my every wish while believing they did it in their own free will. I guided them to wage WAR and spread CHAOS around them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lonely", "response": "Being lonely was what defined me.\n\nI sought the company of my kind, even though I knew there was no-one else. I was craving for SOLITUDE and desperate for CONTACT.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Contact", "response": "I travelled the universe to find an escape from the loneliness. Ages passed and I found a world that was inhabited by creatures much unlike me. Still, they were there for me.\n\nNow that I had found them, I wanted to both EMBRACE and SHUN them.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Religious", "Romance", "Historical" ]

[ "alternative endings", "built-in hints", "Christianity", "first person", "France", "IF Competition 1998", "IFComp Game", "male protagonist", "multiple endings", "past tense", "romance", "victorian era", "walkthrough", "well written", "Xyzzy Awards 1998" ]

[ 4, 16, 10, 4, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "MUSE: An Autumn Romance\n\nThe late summer of 1886 found me on the continent for the purpose of regaining my health and spirits. These had been in decline for the past few months, and it was Dr Thorne's suggestion that the best cure for me might be a change of scenery. A short stay in Ramsgate, perhaps. Or better yet, a visit to the Alps in France or Switzerland, where the fresh mountain air would do me no end of good.\n\nI had declined at first to do any such thing. I was, after all, a staid, solid clergyman of 59 years, mature enough to weather any foolish fluctuations of temper. Besides which, these frivolities cost money.\n\nThe doctor's recommendation eventually reached the ears of my dear sister Emma, however, and she immediately took up the task of convincing me of the necessity of such a trip. But it was not until I obtained news about relatively inexpensive alpine destinations that I relented, and found myself packed off to the continent for a month.\n\nThe month's sojourn improved my health tremendously. However, without the distraction of my usual work, I found the mountains did little to raise my spirits. And so I made my journey homeward in a state of mute distraction, even as the first brilliance of Autumn began to make itself known among the trees.\n\nAll in all, it had been a smooth and uneventful trip, but for a slight pause at the channel. This was at a small French coastal village from which I chose to make my crossing, it being less expensive than the usual ferry at Calais. Here I stopped for a meal at the local inn, and then waited as my trunk was transferred from the train to pier where the boatman was waiting.\n\nIt was only a minor pause....\n\nMUSE: An Autumn Romance\n\n(Please type \"help\" for background and documentation.)\n\nThe pier stretched out into the cold waters of the English Channel from the village east of here. Overhead, I could hear the gulls swoop and cry. The brisk seaside air blew in my face, carrying with it the scent of salt. Far away, across the waves, the white cliffs of Dover could barely be seen in the grey clouded light.\n\nMy trusty old steamer trunk lay here.\n\nA fishing boat was moored beside the pier and its boatman was waiting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Rev Stephen Dawson, vicar of St Swithin's in the diocese of Barchester. I was 59, an Anglican clergyman and a confirmed bachelor. I wore my clerical collar out of both duty and habit, and my hair and whiskers were grey with respectability. My clothes were old and my cuffs were frayed, but as I so often told my sister Emma, sometimes the old things are by far the best.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I had on my person the following items:\nmy pocket New Testament", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Testament", "response": "Stop.\n\nFrom the corner of my eye, I saw her. Like an angel descended from heaven, she stood on the cobbles at the other end of the pier. Her head was partially turned away from me; I caught a flash of a delicate throat and lustrous chestnut-brown hair....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Testament", "response": "Time stood still, arrested by her presence. I had no desire to move, lest I lose sight of her. For an aching second, her parasol shielded her face from my sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the woman", "response": "The old German gentleman, whom I recognised from the train, walked slowly up. She had been waiting for him. They walked together off towards the inn, and I lost sight of them.\n\nI was suddenly brought back to earth by the boatman's voice. \"Monsieur, we must go now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "Well, I could hardly leave without my trunk, could I?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trunk", "response": "I'd had this old steamer trunk since my college days. It had always served me well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the trunk", "response": "Oh, but the trunk was heavy! I managed to lift it just high enough for the purpose of moving it around, but I was getting far too old for this sort of thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I had on my person the following items:\nmy trunk (which was closed)\nmy pocket New Testament\n\nThe boatman began to show signs of impatience.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter boat", "response": "I was 59, not 29, and the trunk was unwieldy. I couldn't possibly get in the boat while carrying the trunk myself.\n\n\"Monsieur, I cannot wait. Tomorrow.\" And with that, the boatman turned, and set out across the channel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "I was 59, not 29, and the trunk was unwieldy. I couldn't possibly get in the boat while carrying the trunk myself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the trunk", "response": "\"Pardon, Monsieur?\" The boatman seemed to have been thrown into a state of utter linguistic confusion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the trunk to the boatman", "response": "I passed the trunk to the boatman, who loaded it carefully on the boat.\n\nThe boatman began to show signs of impatience.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter boat", "response": "Sighing, I got into the boat and took a seat. As we set out across the waves, I realized how much I dreaded looking back, lest I catch sight of her once more ... knowing that if I did, my heart would probably burst....\n\n\"Stephen, do cheer up.\"\n\nEmma's voice was laced with concern. I didn't know what to tell her, what to say.... I was 59. A mature, respectable clergyman of conservative tastes. Could I say that I'd fallen in love, in the space of a second, with the merest glimpse of a lady less than half my age?\n\nCould I? I don't know.\n\nI can't concentrate on my work. When I close my eyes, all I can see is that shimmering angel at the other end of the pier....\n\nAnd I wonder....", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The pier stretched out into the cold waters of the English Channel from the village east of here. Overhead, I could hear the gulls swoop and cry. The brisk seaside air blew in my face, carrying with it the scent of salt. Far away, across the waves, the white cliffs of Dover could barely be seen in the grey clouded light.\n\nMy trusty old steamer trunk lay here.\n\nA fishing boat was moored beside the pier and its boatman was waiting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go away", "response": "\"Pardon, Monsieur?\" The boatman seemed to have been thrown into a state of utter linguistic confusion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You are bad at the customer service and i no longer wish to employ your services", "response": "BOATMAN, YOU ARE BAD AT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND I NO LONGER WISH TO EMPLOY YOUR SERVICES\n\n\"Pardon, Monsieur?\" The boatman seemed to have been thrown into a state of utter linguistic confusion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hit boatman", "response": "Violence was not the answer to this one.\n\nThe boatman began to show signs of impatience.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss boatman", "response": "A hundred years from now, when the world goes through the sexual revolution and women get ordained in the Anglican church, then maybe.\n\n\"Monsieur, I cannot wait. Tomorrow.\" And with that, the boatman turned, and set out across the channel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This wide cobblestone square marked the heart of the little village. A large well stood in its centre, obviously the focal point of local day-to-day life. To the east stood the church of St Pierre, a small grey stone building with its doors invitingly open. A salt breeze blew from the pier to the west, and the cobbles continued southwards to an open terrace and the village inn. The north side was lined with commercial buildings, including a telegraph office.\n\nA young gentleman stood in front of an easel, trying to paint a landscape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the painting", "response": "The painting looked like an excellent piece of work, to my untrained eye. I wondered why the young artist seemed so unenthusiastic about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "The young artist was a tall, fine-looking fellow, if a bit threadbare and underfed. His clothes were stained with oil paint. He was currently attempting a painting, but the worried look in his eyes suggested little hope of success. A sketchbook peeked out from one capacious pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hug man", "response": "Not in this day and age!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the painting", "response": "It would have hardly been proper or polite to begin without introductions. For all I knew, he might not understand a word of English, and I was hardly conversant in French.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "\"Pleased to meet you. I'm John Austin. I've got a room above the newsagent's for the season, but the way things are going I might have to stay here for the Autumn and Winter as well. Economy, you know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the painting", "response": "\"It ... it's not really working. I have this dream of ... of perfection, and, I don't know, my heart's just not in it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the sketchbook", "response": "\"Oh, it's nothing. Just something I use to sketch things and ideas in, whenever the inclination hits me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sketch woman", "response": "John shook his head. \"I'd rather not, really.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The cobbles from the north widened out here into a terrace outside the inn to the south. A low stone wall to the west overlooked the beach some twenty feet below. Hugging the wall, a steep and narrow flight of stone steps led down to the sand. Opposite, another high wall defined the eastern side of the terrace, broken only by a small wrought-iron gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The lobby of the inn was small and dim, but seemed respectable enough. A desk sat in a corner where guests might check in or out, and stairs led up to the rooms. Through a doorway to the east, the modest dining hall and public house could be seen.\n\nRene, the innkeeper, stood by the door.\n\nThe old German gentleman leaned on his cane nearby.\n\nThe young lady was saying something to the German. Listening, I heard her addressing him as \"Papa\". So he was her father after all ... the sense of relief that I felt was overwhelming. Could I possibly be in love? It was ridiculous: I was far too old for that sort of thing.\n\nThere had to be a logical reason for the way I felt. I should probably extend my stay by a day or two ... establish a friendship with the beautiful young lady and her father ... propose....\n\nNo, wait, that wasn't right. I wasn't sure what to think. But I was sure of one thing: my heart would break if she should so much as shed a single tear....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Rene about the rooms", "response": "\"Certainly, Monsieur ... here, let us put you in number 3, overlooking the channel. It is good, no?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "A narrow and dimly lit hallway ran the length of the building from the stairway at the south to a door (labelled with the number 2) at the north. The walls were untreated stone and, being windowless, suggested more an underground passage than an upstairs hallway. Other doors were east and west: they were labelled 1 and 3 respectively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A small, square room, with grey stone walls and exposed rafters. Very simple, very spartan. A long, narrow bed lined one wall. An old wooden dresser stood beside it, directly under a tall casement window looking out onto the beach and the pier. The air was warm and stuffy and still in the closed room.\n\nThe musty lack of ventilation in this small, enclosed room was getting fairly uncomfortable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the trunk", "response": "I set it down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trunk", "response": "I opened the trunk, revealing my clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clothes", "response": "My clothes had been neatly packed, and it would have been a shame to mess them up right now.\n\nThe musty lack of ventilation in this small, enclosed room was getting fairly uncomfortable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "I opened the window and looked out. What's this? From my window, I could see the German gentleman hefting one of the ropes from the pier, and stealthily creeping back! Curiously, I watched him until he entered the inn. A few moments later, I heard his door across the hallway open and shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "My attention was caught by the sound of wood sliding across wood, behind the door to Room 1. A moment later, the ominous clump and creak of someone climbing onto a chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "Which did I mean, the first door, the third door or the second door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A small, square room, with grey stone walls and exposed rafters. Very simple, very spartan. A long, narrow bed lined one wall. An old wooden dresser stood beside it, directly under a tall casement window looking out onto the French countryside. The air was warm and stuffy and still in the closed room.\n\nThe old German gentleman was hanging from one of the overhead rafters. Death was but a few moments away!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lift man", "response": "I grabbed a hold of the German gentleman by the legs and struggled to support him. His breathing was easier now, but only barely. And there was no way I could preserve his life in this manner for long!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "I shouted once for help. Had anyone heard me? I wasn't sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "I shouted again. This time, I was sure I heard running footsteps. But would they be here in time?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "Again I called out. They were coming, I was sure of it.\n\nAll at once, the innkeeper burst into the room, followed by various other people whom I did not recognise. There was an uproar of shouting voices, and then the old German sagged down into my arms as someone cut down the rope. More hands, running feet....\n\nThrough the noisy hubbub, I thought I saw the young fraulein standing for a brief moment in the doorway, before turning and quickly leaving the scene.\n\nThe rest of the day was lost in the general confusion. The German gentleman was fussed over, the priest was called in to have a few words with the poor gentleman, a watch was placed outside his door to ensure he didn't attempt anything foolish later.... It was with a dizzy relief that I fell into bed later that night.\n\nAs the next morning dawned, I could only look back at those events as being vaguely unreal in their potentially tragic consequences....\n\nRoom 3 (on the bed)\n\nMy trusty old steamer trunk lay here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'd have to get off the bed first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get up", "response": "I got off the bed.\n\nMy trusty old steamer trunk lay here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A small, square room, with grey stone walls and exposed rafters. Very simple, very spartan. A long, narrow bed lined one wall. An old wooden dresser stood beside it, directly under a tall casement window looking out onto the French countryside. The air was warm and stuffy and still in the closed room.\n\nThe old German gentleman reclined in his chair, lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "We chatted a while, but soon digressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the suicide", "response": "It would have hardly been proper or polite to begin without introductions. For all I knew, he might not understand a word of English, and I had no knowledge at all of the German language.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "He spoke perfect English but for a slight accent. He was Viktor Von Goethe, a widower; the young lady was his daughter Konstanza. They were here on a sort of pilgrimage. This was where he'd met his late wife, Konstanza's mother, twenty-five years ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the suicide", "response": "\"I met Klara, my wife, here twenty-five years ago. I was on my way to England, and her family was on the way back ... we fell in love.... So you see I am sentimental about this little French town. In my mind, my life began here, when I met Klara. It seemed fitting that it should end here as well....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the daughter", "response": "Herr Goethe looked away. \"We have never communicated much, my daughter and I. And even less since my late wife's passing. She is, of course, an independent young lady....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "I opened the window and looked out. From here, I found myself looking directly down into the lonely churchyard. It was a charming, if fairly morbid, view. Looking more closely, I thought I caught a glimpse of Konstanza Von Goethe wandering among the twisted churchyard trees below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A narrow and dimly lit hallway ran the length of the building from the stairway at the south to a door (labelled with the number 2) at the north. The walls were untreated stone and, being windowless, suggested more an underground passage than an upstairs hallway. Other doors were east and west: they were labelled 1 and 3 respectively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The lobby of the inn was small and dim, but seemed respectable enough. A desk sat in a corner where guests might check in or out, and stairs led up to the rooms. Through a doorway to the east, the modest dining hall and public house could be seen.\n\nRene, the innkeeper, stood by the door.\n\nRene waved and wished me a good morning. \"It was a good thing that you were there yesterday, Monsieur Dawson. Poor Monsieur Goethe ... it is unfortunate that his room overlooks the graveyard. It will only make him think of dying again. But how to change rooms, when all the rooms are full? It is indeed difficult. And Mademoiselle Goethe ... she has gone out, for a walk, she says. But I can see she is troubled. The Goethe family is not a happy one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Rene about the rooms", "response": "\"Your room is satisfactory, n'est pas?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "The innkeeper looked crestfallen as his moustache drooped even lower. \"By some miracle, all the rooms are taken this week. But if you really wish to change rooms, you have only to say it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Change rooms", "response": "\"Of course,\" said Rene, sympathising, \"and it would be far better for Monsieur Goethe to be put in a different room, no? I shall speak to him, and have you both transferred at once.\"\n\nAnd with that, the good fellow bustled off, returning a few minutes later with a broad smile to tell me that it was done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The cobbles from the north widened out here into a terrace outside the inn to the south. A low stone wall to the west overlooked the beach some twenty feet below. Hugging the wall, a steep and narrow flight of stone steps led down to the sand. Opposite, another high wall defined the eastern side of the terrace, broken only by a small wrought-iron gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "In the true gothic-romantic spirit, twisted yew trees provided cool shade to the many simple graves that filled this quiet churchyard. To the north rose the grey stone church, its solitary outline silhouetted in the grey skies of Autumn. Its door was half-obscured by the yews, as was the small wrought-iron gate leading out to the west. Incongruously, the inn formed part of the west wall, and some of its windows looked out onto this sombre scene.\n\nFraulein Konstanza Von Goethe lingered nearby, quietly surveying the scene.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "Her voice was like music, with a faint German accent ... \"You are a friend of Papa's? I am very pleased to meet you, Herr Dawson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Konstanza about the father", "response": "\"I know nothing about what Papa thinks or wants,\" she said, a bit stiffly, \"we are ... not very close, Papa and I. But thank you all the same.\"\n\nCould it be that there was some form of disharmony between Konstanza and her father? I wondered if there were anything in it, or if her relations with other family members were similarly strained.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Konstanza about the mother", "response": "\"Mama and I were very close, partly I suppose because Papa was away so often. She and Papa were very much in love, and they came here together last year to mark their anniversary. I did not accompany them then, as they needed the private time together.\"\n\nIn spite of everything, I received the impression that there was something which Konstanza was not telling me. Had I been too demanding in my questioning? It was an embarrassing idea, and yet I wondered if someone else might not be able to tell me more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Konstanza about the suicide", "response": "\"I don't know why Papa would do such a thing,\" said Konstanza, shaking her head sadly, \"he'd always been so ... so reserved, so much in control.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the graves", "response": "Old, crumbling gravestones crowded in on each other. Most were barely readable, and many were so overgrown that they were well-nigh invisible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at her", "response": "Konstanza Von Goethe possessed an unearthly, almost angelic, beauty that made my heart ache. But what was I thinking ... she was young enough to be my daughter....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "L'eglise St-Pierre\nLight shone in through clear glass windows that the community had been too poor to have stained, illuminating the altar under the large wooden crucifix. It was quiet, hushed, filled with an air of reverence. To the west, the doors opened out onto the cobbled square, and a smaller door stood tucked away to the south.\n\nI could see the parish priest hovering near at hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the priest", "response": "The old parish priest was a short, stumpy, greying frenchman in the usual black habit and clerical collar. His eyes twinkled with benevolence and warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "We introduced ourselves. He was Father Antoine LeBrun, he spoke English, and he'd been the priest of this parish for the past twenty years.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the priest about the suicide", "response": "\"Suicide is the ultimate sin of despair. It is sad to think of how many normally good, faithful people would give up their places in Heaven for this.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask priest about konstanza", "response": "Father LeBrun frowned, perplexed. \"Pardon, I'm afraid I do not quite understand.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask priest about Viktor", "response": "\"I will tell you what it is: ever since his wife passed on, the poor man has given up hope. He seems very lonely....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the priest about Klara", "response": "\"Madame Goethe was here with her husband last year. She was a fine, Christian woman, Monsieur Dawson, and it was sad that she passed away only a few days after her arrival. She was buried here in our churchyard, and I wrote back to inform Mademoiselle Goethe about it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the graves", "response": "\"Klara Von Goethe, 1837-1885\"\n\nThis must be Konstanza Von Goethe's mother, Viktor Von Goethe's late wife. The nature of their journey here was beginning to look very much more like a pilgrimage.... In fact, it now looked as though Viktor Von Goethe had deliberately come here for the specific purpose of dying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The English Channel washed up against this narrow strip of sand, now accessible at low tide. Come high tide, the water level would rise a few feet up the stone wall to the east, covering the sand. Steep and narrow steps were cut into that wall, leading up to the terrace space above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Channel", "response": "The waters of the English Channel separate England and France. It being the end of summer, the waves were beginning to take on a colder, more menacing nature.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The dim memory of an old youthful whim pricked me ... but no, at 59, there were better ways of crossing the Channel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The lobby of the inn was small and dim, but seemed respectable enough. A desk sat in a corner where guests might check in or out, and stairs led up to the rooms. Through a doorway to the east, the modest dining hall and public house could be seen.\n\nRene, the innkeeper, stood by the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Rene", "response": "Rene was a tall man, somewhat on the corpulent side. He wore a drooping moustache, and though apparently harried by the stress of running an inn, seemed friendly and wonderfully obliging.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A small, square room, with grey stone walls and exposed rafters. Very simple, very spartan. A long, narrow bed lined one wall. An old wooden dresser stood beside it, directly under a tall casement window looking out onto the French countryside. A soft breeze wafted through the open window.\n\nMy trusty old steamer trunk lay here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the dresser", "response": "I opened the dresser, revealing a journal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the journal", "response": "I picked it up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the journal", "response": "The letters were all in German, and seemed to be part of a correspondence between Viktor and a woman named Klara. It meant nothing to me. As for the journal itself, there was from a week to a year between individual entries: Herr Goethe did not seem to be a keen diarist. Most of these entries were in German, too, but a few were in Latin, and of these I could make some sense. The last few entries, for example. Curious, I scanned through them....\n\nHe spoke of his grief over Klara's death ... the distance that seemed to have sprung up between himself and his daughter since then... \"She is my only child, and my business has always kept me away from her. It was always Klara who linked us, and now Klara is gone. I realise now that my Konstanza is a young woman, and that comes as a complete surprise to me. I fear that it is too late to know her, or to tell her how dear she is to me. It is too late for apologies. She is her own woman now, independent of me, and she will perhaps be better off without my presence....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I had on my person the following items:\na journal\nmy pocket New Testament", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Reminiscent of old-fashioned mediaeval inns, the dining hall of this particular inn also doubled as the local pub. Fairly adequate lighting came through the windows which ranged along two sides of the room, though I would have preferred a bit more sun. Bare wooden tables were placed here and there, and a bar counter ran along one wall of the room.\n\nJohn Austin sat at a table in a corner, idly sketching random objects into his sketchbook.\n\nThe serving maid, Yvette, bustled about, keeping things in order.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "\"Oui, bonjour.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Yvette about Rene", "response": "\"Monsieur Artois is a good man, but always so worried about the inn ... it would be nice if we had more people visiting this part of France.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the maid about Viktor", "response": "Yvette made a few standard comments, but seemed too busy to tell me anything new.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "\"Yes, and a good day to you too, sir.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about John", "response": "\"What's there to tell? I studied painting in Rome, and now I'm just struggling to get some sort of work done before my money runs out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the counter", "response": "The counter was old and sturdy, but well-polished.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the journal to Konstanza", "response": "\"Those are Papa's private papers,\" said Konstanza, glancing over the journal, \"he writes in Latin sometimes, to maintain his privacy.\"\n\n\"I think you had better know what this one says,\" I said.\n\n\"Mein Herr!\" she cried, interrupting me, \"surely you cannot have been reading Papa's private journal? Mein Herr, you hardly even know us! Please, I would prefer it if you would not meddle in our private affairs, of which you know nothing!\"\n\nTurning, she strolled deliberately away from me. She was angry with me, and this distressed me much. But she was right: I had indeed been too forward in showing her the journal, especially at this early stage of our acquaintance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I had on my person the following items:\na journal\nmy pocket New Testament", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "L'eglise St-Pierre\nLight shone in through clear glass windows that the community had been too poor to have stained, illuminating the altar under the large wooden crucifix. It was quiet, hushed, filled with an air of reverence. To the west, the doors opened out onto the cobbled square, and a smaller door stood tucked away to the south.\n\nI could see Father LeBrun hovering near at hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the journal to LeBrun", "response": "Father LeBrun glanced at one or two of the Latin passages towards the end, then returned the journal to me. \"That is interesting, Monsieur. I wonder if Mademoiselle would feel as she does if she knew of her father's true feelings concerning her.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A small, square room, with grey stone walls and exposed rafters. Very simple, very spartan. A long, narrow bed lined one wall. An old wooden dresser stood beside it, directly under a tall casement window looking out onto the beach and the pier. A soft breeze wafted through the open window, carrying with it a hint of the sea.\n\nHerr Viktor Von Goethe reclined in his chair, lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the journal to Viktor", "response": "\"Thank you, Mein Herr. I suppose I must have left it behind when we changed rooms.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I had on my person the following items:\nmy pocket New Testament", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read Testament", "response": "I practically knew its contents by heart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Viktor about Yvette", "response": "I mused aimlessly for a while on various unrelated topics.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Viktor about the journal", "response": "Herr Goethe frowned and looked at me suspiciously. \"Let us talk about something else, Herr Dawson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Viktor about LeBrun", "response": "\"I've had a few words with him, the last time I was here. He's a kind, compassionate man.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A small, square room, with grey stone walls and exposed rafters. Very simple, very spartan. A long, narrow bed lined one wall. An old wooden dresser stood beside it, directly under a tall casement window looking out onto the French countryside. A soft breeze wafted through the open window.\n\nMy trusty old steamer trunk lay here.\n\nThe dresser drawer was standing open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This wide cobblestone square marked the heart of the little village. A large well stood in its centre, obviously the focal point of local day-to-day life. To the east stood the church of St Pierre, a small grey stone building with its doors invitingly open. A salt breeze blew from the pier to the west, and the cobbles continued southwards to an open terrace and the village inn. The north side was lined with commercial buildings, including a telegraph office.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at well", "response": "The village well was a stone octagon in the exact centre of the square. It was large, and deep, and uncovered, its sides wide enough and low enough to serve as a seat. Peering within, I could see nothing but darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This was the village's connection with the outside world. The walls were plastered and whitewashed to brighten the room, but this instead created an air of impersonal detachment.\n\nOne side of the room was taken up by a long desk, on which sat a telegraph machine. The other side was stocked with newspapers. In the back, beyond the telegraph, a shadowy doorway opened onto a flight of stairs leading up.\n\nThe postmaster sat near the telegraph, reading a newspaper and generally ignoring everything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "Maurice Roget was a well-educated man, speaking fluent English and German with barely a hint of an accent. \"It is good to be able to communicate in as many ways as possible, Monsieur Dawson, especially in my line of work. I am, in fact, now studying the Italian language.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Maurice about Viktor", "response": "\"Now that I think about it, I do believe he was here last year, with his wife. That was a tragic story.... the poor woman died, I think from Consumption. She was buried in the churchyard here, in fact. Father LeBrun had me send word about her passing back to the daughter in Germany.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Maurice about Klara", "response": "I mused aimlessly for a while on various unrelated topics.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Maurice about John", "response": "\"Monsieur Austin has been lodging with me over the summer. Poor fellow, he can barely afford it. But he is proud, and will not accept charity from me or from anyone.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Maurice about LeBrun", "response": "\"He is a good fellow, as far as priests go. He has been trying for the past several years to convert me, though not with very much success, I'm afraid.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This was the village's connection with the outside world. The walls were plastered and whitewashed to brighten the room, but this instead created an air of impersonal detachment.\n\nOne side of the room was taken up by a long desk, on which sat a telegraph machine. The other side was stocked with newspapers. In the back, beyond the telegraph, a shadowy doorway opened onto a flight of stairs leading up.\n\nMaurice Roget sat near the telegraph, reading a newspaper and generally ignoring everything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the telegraph", "response": "The telegraph machine was, to my eyes at least, a rather strange contraption with wires all over the place. I had no idea how it worked, but I did know that it was a means for me to communicate with the people back home in Barchester.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the newspaper", "response": "(the English newspapers)\nI was pleased to note that a selection of English newspapers was available. The selection was not particularly extensive, however, and I doubted if there was anything of importance to be gleaned from them at the moment. Maurice Roget was reading one of them, as a matter of fact, and seemed quite absorbed in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the newspaper", "response": "(the English newspapers)\nThat would have been unnecessary. Emma would no doubt have a copy of that paper waiting for me back at the vicarage, and a few days' delay was not going to make much of a difference on what I did or did not know about the world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This wide cobblestone square marked the heart of the little village. A large well stood in its centre, obviously the focal point of local day-to-day life. To the east stood the church of St Pierre, a small grey stone building with its doors invitingly open. A salt breeze blew from the pier to the west, and the cobbles continued southwards to an open terrace and the village inn. The north side was lined with commercial buildings, including a telegraph office.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about Maurice", "response": "\"He's a jolly fellow, and so full of life. He's always asking me to join him for a few drinks at the inn. I hate having to turn him down time after time, but that sort of luxury is really somewhat beyond my means at the moment.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about the job", "response": "\"I never did have much of a head for business. It's one of the reasons I took to art instead. I could do some odd jobs and assort menial work, though, if I had to. But not on a long-term scale, I hope.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about the money", "response": "\"I had a small inheritance that allowed me to pursue my artistic interests. I tried to make it last as long as possible, of course, but funds are getting low. I'm almost all out now, and I don't know if anyone would even look at my work. I guess it's what you'd call a bad investment.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paint", "response": "What did I want John Austin to paint?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You paint Klara", "response": "John shook his head. \"I'd rather not, really.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paint konstanza", "response": "John glanced out of the window and paused for a long moment. \"Yes ... she is quite the beauty, isn't she?\" he murmured as he began a pencil sketch of Konstanza Von Goethe as seen through the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the sketch", "response": "Nothing was on sale.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sketch", "response": "A thoroughly unremarkable sketchbook, of cheap paper and cheaper cardboard binding. It was filled with pencil and charcoal sketches of scenery, animals, and people.\n\nThe last sketch was a lovely pencil drawing of Konstanza Von Goethe wandering in the peaceful churchyard, framed by the twisted yew trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take sketch", "response": "That seemed to belong to John Austin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the sketch to you", "response": "John shrugged as he handed me his sketchbook. \"You want to look at my old sketches? Certainly, if that is what you want. You probably won't find much of interest, I'm afraid.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sketch", "response": "I already had that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I stopped, thinking it would probably be best if I returned John Austin's sketchbook to him before leaving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the sketchbook", "response": "The name \"John Austin\" was signed at the bottom of each sketch, along with the date.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about the sketchbook", "response": "John blushed somewhat embarrassedly. \"It's not much, is it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pay John", "response": "Whom did I want to pay John Austin to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the sketchbook to John", "response": "John smiled wryly as he took back his sketchbook. \"Not much, is it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Viktor about the sketch", "response": "Herr Goethe listened politely, but had little to add.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Viktor about John", "response": "\"If this Herr Austin wants to paint my daughter, he is quite welcome. If, of course, she consents.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Konstanza about the sketch", "response": "\"Herr Dawson, please, I do not feel like speaking with you ... or anyone ... right now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You apologize", "response": "Whom did I want to apologize to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You apologize to Konstanza", "response": "Konstanza glanced at me and relented. \"Very well then. Let us forget that it ever happened.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Konstanza about John", "response": "\"The two of you must enjoy being able to talk about English politics with each other. I always think it is nice to meet a fellow countryman when one is abroad.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The cobbles from the north widened out here into a terrace outside the inn to the south. A low stone wall to the west overlooked the beach some twenty feet below. Hugging the wall, a steep and narrow flight of stone steps led down to the sand. Opposite, another high wall defined the eastern side of the terrace, broken only by a small wrought-iron gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Konstanza about John", "response": "\"I've seen him around. I have not spoken to him as yet, but he seems to be a gentleman. Even if he is covered in paint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sketch to Konstanza", "response": "John looked doubtful, and shook his head. \"To tell the truth, I'd really rather not.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the book to you", "response": "John shrugged as he handed me his sketchbook. \"You want to look at my old sketches? Certainly, if that is what you want. You probably won't find much of interest, I'm afraid.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Reminiscent of old-fashioned mediaeval inns, the dining hall of this particular inn also doubled as the local pub. Fairly adequate lighting came through the windows which ranged along two sides of the room, though I would have preferred a bit more sun. Bare wooden tables were placed here and there, and a bar counter ran along one wall of the room.\n\nJohn Austin was watching the world go by from his table in a corner.\n\nThe serving maid, Yvette, bustled about, keeping things in order.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I stopped, thinking it would probably be best if I returned John Austin's sketchbook to him before leaving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the sketchbook at John", "response": "I unfortunately found I lacked the nerve when it came to the crucial moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hold the sketchbook up to the window and beat on the the glass until KONSTANZA comes to look", "response": "HOLD SKETCHBOOK UP TO WINDOW AND BEAT ON THE GLASS UNTIL KONSTANZA COMES TO LOOK\n\nIt only occured to me that I should try to hold the sketchbook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sketchbook to KONSTANZA", "response": "(first taking the sketchbook)\nInteresting though that might be, she was currently quite out of reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "I fell into step beside Konstanza, and we strolled along side by side for a while. It was a both comforting and comfortable experience while it lasted, and it seemed -- or so I hoped -- she felt the same way.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Horror" ]

[ "basic difficulty", "health inspector", "IF Competition 2008", "IFComp Game", "restaurant setting", "short length", "supernatural", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2008" ]

[ 3, 25, 15, 2, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "This has never been your favorite part of the city. Nor is this neighborhood the safest one. But as a city sanitarian, you are charged with completing an annual health and safety inspection of every restaurant in your district.\n\nEach day you visit three or four restaurants. During those visits you take note of potential health code violations in your trusty notepad. Today's first target: Nikolai's Bar and Grill.\n\nA hazy sun barely peeks above the three-story tenements.\n\nType \"About\" at any time to see game instructions and other notes from the author.\n\nYou are standing in front of Nikolai's Bar and Grill on 19th Street.\nA green awning shades the smudged window into Nikolai's dining room. The front entrance is north of you.\n\nThe east/west sidewalk here is cracked and uneven, pocked by clumps of crabgrass. A storm gutter is built into the curb, littered with broken bottles. Across the street a neon sign flickers erratically.\nA few cars are parked nearby (including yours), but otherwise you see no evidence that anyone visits this neighborhood past daybreak.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nA damp sheet of newspaper has blown up against the curb.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Examine newspaper", "response": "The newspaper scrap is worn and damp, rendering it almost unreadable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the placard", "response": "An aluminum placard, printed in red, is fixed to the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "You read: (in big red letters) CLOSED", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gutter", "response": "The gutter is designed to carry storm water off the road. It extends west and east.\n\nIn storm gutter is some broken glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are the city health inspector, looking quite natty in your polyester shirt and vintage knit tie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na notepad", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the notepad", "response": "This notebook is for recording health code violations when you inspect a restaurant. Nikolai's is likely to have a number of infractions.\nTo record them, \"note [something]\". Later in the day, back at the office, you will refer to these notes to write your official report.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A street-front window looks into Nikolai's bar. If you want into the bar, you'll have to go back to the restaurant entrance, which is west of here. There are no cars on this end of 19th Street. The sidewalk is uneven. A curb-side storm gutter empties here into a grated storm drain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the drain", "response": "The openings in the storm drain are barely wide enough to insert three fingers. You'll have to search more carefully to see what lies below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the drain", "response": "Staring up at you, from a few inches below the grate, are a pair of eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the eye", "response": "On careful examination, the eyes are dismembered. They float in a dark pool several inches beneath the grate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sidewalk", "response": "The sidewalk buckles to such a degree, one might think it had been hit by an earthquake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The window is marked by dozens of greasy finger prints and years of accumulated scratch marks. It should certainly be cleaned, if not replaced. But you can still see through well enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the window", "response": "You write, \"Exterior windows are filthy-- should be cleaned.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the window", "response": "Through the window you see the Bar.\n\nA trapezoid of light falls on the cork dance floor.\n\nBehind the bar is a dinky two basin sink with an attached faucet. In the rinse basin is some ice.\n\nA middle-aged woman, slight in build, is seated at the bar counter. She has fallen fast asleep.\n\nYou also see a stereo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the woman", "response": "Angela is Nikolai's day shift waitress. She doesn't have the endurance any longer to work the night shift. Angela is a thin woman not quite 50 with salt and pepper gray hair. Her skin is pale as a ghost. She is asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine stereo", "response": "The stereo is one of those big, barely portable, over-the-shoulder models popular back in the day when Michael Jackson was undergoing his first plastic surgery. This one is held together by duct tape and wire. One of the bartenders probably brought it in to entertain themselves during the slow periods.\n\nThe stereo is switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake woman", "response": "You knock. Angela wakes, looking startled. When she sees you motioning at the window, she stands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the stereo", "response": "You can only look from this distance.\n\nAngela moves to the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "An aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nA damp sheet of newspaper has blown up against the curb.\n\nAngela opens the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela is gaunt and anemic. She struggles to remain alert.\n\nAn obese man (Nikolai, the owner?) watches you from the balcony.\n\n\"Who's there? Tell him we're closed\" Nikolai growls in disgust.\n\nAngela cowers, \"I think he's the man from the health department.\" She looks at you \"We're not open right now.\"\n\nNikolai growls again, \"We were just inspected six months ago. Tell him to go away.\" Without waiting for an answer from either you or Angela, Nikolai turns back into his office and closes the door.\n\nAngela shrugs helplessly, and begins cleaning the dining room.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped three points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Angela about yourself", "response": "Angela says, \"You seem like sharp young fellow. Maybe Nikolai would let you work in the restaurant.\"\n\nAngela takes a short break.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Angela", "response": "Angela is Nikolai's day shift waitress. She doesn't have the endurance any longer to work the night shift. Angela is a thin woman not quite 50 with salt and pepper gray hair. Her skin is pale as a ghost.\n\nAngela says, \"You mustn't take Nikolai too seriously. He's really a very good man. It's just... he acts kind of grumpy sometimes because of his affliction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Angela about the affliction", "response": "Angela whispers, \"When Nikolai started gaining a lot of weight, about fifteen years ago, his doctor diagnosed him with the affliction. You know, that blood sugar disease? He takes insulin for it, I think.\"\n\nAngela begins wiping tables.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Angela about the diabetes", "response": "\"Right, that's the name of Nikolai's affliction.\"\n\nAngela is pausing to rest. Nikolai pokes his head out of his office momentarily to shout, \"If there's time to lean, there's time to clean\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Angela about the restaurant", "response": "\"Nikolai only pays the cooks five dollars an hour. They don't use recipes, because they can't read.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tables", "response": "The tables are four tops. None of twelve tables have been cleaned since last night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the tables", "response": "You write, \"Dining room tables require cleaning.\" in the notebook.\n\nAngela begins sweeping the floor.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the floor", "response": "(the cork dance floor)\nThe dance floor isn't very large but you imagine it doesn't need to be. People don't come to Nikolai's to dance. They come to get soused. The floor is discolored by water marks and mold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the floor", "response": "(the cork dance floor)\nYou can only look from this distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the mold", "response": "You can only look from this distance.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela is gaunt and anemic. She struggles to remain alert.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the placard", "response": "An aluminum placard, printed in red, is fixed to the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the placard", "response": "You read: (in big red letters) CLOSED", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "In the mirror you see The window is scratched, but intact.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela is gaunt and anemic. She struggles to remain alert.\n\nAbout twelve tables are closely spaced within the small location.\n\nDozens of identical chairs are pushed snug against the four top tables.\nYou also see yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The window is marked by dozens of greasy finger prints and years of accumulated scratch marks. It should certainly be cleaned, if not replaced. But you can still see through well enough.\n\nAngela begins wiping tables.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Angela about the anemia", "response": "Angela seems a little confused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Angela about Angela", "response": "\"I came to this country when I was 19, from Czechoslovakia. Uncle Nikolai helped me to escape. I've been working for him ever since.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Sunlight from the 19th Street window (south) casts an bright trapezoid across the cork dance floor. In every other corner, the brick walls of this unpretentious watering hole are marked by shadows. If you don't mind risking ptomaine poisoning, Nikolai's dining room is to the west. Otherwise, the unisex lavatory is north through a low ceiling tunnel.\n\nA set of Naugahyde stools are pushed against the linoleum bar.\n\nBehind the bar is a dinky two basin sink with an attached faucet. In the rinse basin is some ice.\n\nBeside the sink is a personal stereo (held together largely with duct tape).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The odor of stale beer and sweat threatens to overwhelm you. You imagine it must smell even worse when the local mill workers are packed in here during happy hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the wash basin", "response": "The wash basin is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in rinse basin", "response": "In the rinse basin is some ice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ice", "response": "Rounded chips of melting ice drain in the sink. The pile of ice has a red streak through its center. Sloe Gin, or perhaps grenadine would make that color streak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the ice", "response": "While sifting through the ice in the rinse basin, you pause in horror. Buried near the drain is a severed human hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the hand", "response": "(the severed left hand)\nThe severed left hand is likely evidence of a ghastly crime, but you falter when trying to assign it as a particular health code violation in your notebook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hand", "response": "(the severed left hand)\nThe hand is pale and cold as ice. It is cut cleanly at the wrist, as if by a cleaver. The hand appears to be human. It appears to be the real thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stools", "response": "(the cork dance floor)\nThe dance floor isn't very large but you imagine it doesn't need to be. People don't come to Nikolai's to dance. They come to get soused. The floor is discolored by water marks and mold.\n\nThe beet red Naugahyde stools are torn, revealing the rotting yellow foam beneath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the floor", "response": "(the cork dance floor)\nYou write, \"Dance floor covered with carcinogenic mold-- apply fungicide.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the stools", "response": "You write, \"Repair bar stools and replace foam padding.\" in the notebook.\n\nThe ice has completely melted.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Sunlight from the 19th Street window (south) casts an bright trapezoid across the cork dance floor. In every other corner, the brick walls of this unpretentious watering hole are marked by shadows. If you don't mind risking ptomaine poisoning, Nikolai's dining room is to the west. Otherwise, the unisex lavatory is north through a low ceiling tunnel.\n\nA set of Naugahyde stools are pushed against the linoleum bar.\n\nBehind the bar is a dinky two basin sink with an attached faucet. In the rinse basin is a severed left hand.\n\nBeside the sink is a personal stereo (held together largely with duct tape).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine walls", "response": "(the brick)\nThe walls are made of the same black and red brick which covers the building's exterior.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops shadows", "response": "Creeping shadows fall everywhere, creating a sensation of permanent dusk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the faucet", "response": "The faucet is turned off, though it drips intermittently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the faucet", "response": "No water comes out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the faucet", "response": "You write, \"Replace bar sink with something larger. And clean the damn thing.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the faucet", "response": "The faucet continues to drip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the counter", "response": "The bar's linoleum counter top is green, with a marbelesque pattern. Brown stains give it the appearance of a rotted apple.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the counter", "response": "You write, \"Linoleum counter top is stained-- clean with an abrasive oxidizing solution.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the notebook", "response": "This notebook is for recording health code violations when you inspect a restaurant. Nikolai's is likely to have a number of infractions.\nTo record them, \"note [something]\". Later in the day, back at the office, you will refer to these notes to write your official report.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "window -- Exterior windows are filthy-- should be cleaned.\ncrumbs -- Dining room tables require cleaning.\ncork dance floor -- Dance floor covered with carcinogenic mold-- apply fungicide.\nbar stool -- Repair bar stools and replace foam padding.\nsink -- Replace bar sink with something larger. And clean the damn thing.\nlinoleum counter -- Linoleum counter top is stained-- clean with an abrasive oxidizing solution.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Sunlight from the 19th Street window (south) casts an bright trapezoid across the cork dance floor. In every other corner, the brick walls of this unpretentious watering hole are marked by shadows. If you don't mind risking ptomaine poisoning, Nikolai's dining room is to the west. Otherwise, the unisex lavatory is north through a low ceiling tunnel.\n\nA set of Naugahyde stools are pushed against the linoleum bar.\n\nBehind the bar is a dinky two basin sink with an attached faucet. In the rinse basin is a severed left hand.\n\nBeside the sink is a personal stereo (held together largely with duct tape).\n\nA cockroach scurries across the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cockroach", "response": "The cockroach has escaped your view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the cockroach", "response": "You write, \"Call exterminator.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the duct tape", "response": "The stereo would probably fall apart if you removed the wire and tape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the stereo", "response": "The radio emits a staticy rendition of \"That'll be the Day\" by Buddy Holly.\n\nThe song on the radio changes to \"Long Tall Sally\" by Little Richard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the stereo", "response": "You switch the stereo off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The low ceiling restroom is painted yellow, the color of urine and bile. Its only fixtures are a porcelain toilet, hand sink, soap dispenser and automatic hand dryer, all mounted low to the floor as if they were reclaimed from an abandoned grade school, or this lavatory was designed for alcoholic ten-year-olds.\n\nA Jackson Pollack pattern of vomit is splashed across the back wall of the bathroom, certainly nowhere near the toilet where it was presumably aimed.\n\nYou hear a mouse scurrying through the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the vomit", "response": "You write, \"Please, please, please, clean the barf off the bathroom wall.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vomit", "response": "The bilious material was probably spewed there last night after a few rounds of drinks. It is now dried, with undigested lumps of green pepper and onion plastered in place. Remains of a cheese steak sandwich, maybe?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the toilet", "response": "(the toilet)\nThe toilet has a five (possibly ten or fifteen) gallon tank. Who knew that such monumental water guzzlers still existed? But the size of the tank is less your concern than contents of the basin. A massive quantity of shit and toilet paper threaten to overflow the rim. This toilet probably hasn't been flushed since yesterday's happy hour.\n\nA tiny brown mouse dashes out of view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the toilet", "response": "(the toilet)\nYou write, \"Clogged toilet-- call plumber.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at tank", "response": "The toilet has a five (possibly ten or fifteen) gallon tank. Who knew that such monumental water guzzlers still existed? But the size of the tank is less your concern than contents of the basin. A massive quantity of shit and toilet paper threaten to overflow the rim. This toilet probably hasn't been flushed since yesterday's happy hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Flush toilet", "response": "(the toilet)\nThat would just cause the toilet to overflow. Better to document this in your notepad.\n\nA cockroach scuttles up the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sink", "response": "A cracked porcelain sink is mounted about two feet above the floor. Its handles have been removed, rendering it useless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the Sink", "response": "You write, \"Sink handles missing-- call plumber.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the soap", "response": "The cracked, wall mounted soap dispenser is equipped with a lever for dispensing-- well, for dispensing whatever the hell Nikolai puts in there.\n\nA tiny brown mouse dashes out of view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dryer", "response": "This stainless steel automatic hand dryer is the same model that was common in American service station restrooms half a century ago. A silver button in front invites you to push it.\n\nThe hand dryer is switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note dispenser", "response": "You write, \"The dispenser is empty-- replace soap.\" in the notebook.\n\nA mouse runs in circles, then races away.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the dryer", "response": "You write, \"Must repair the hand dryer.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "You're almost unable to breath, it smells so foul in here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The low ceiling restroom is painted yellow, the color of urine and bile. Its only fixtures are a porcelain toilet, hand sink, soap dispenser and automatic hand dryer, all mounted low to the floor as if they were reclaimed from an abandoned grade school, or this lavatory was designed for alcoholic ten-year-olds.\n\nA Jackson Pollack pattern of vomit is splashed across the back wall of the bathroom, certainly nowhere near the toilet where it was presumably aimed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "You're almost unable to breath, it smells so foul in here.\n\nYou note a rat out of the corner of your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note rat", "response": "You write, \"Call exterminator.\" in the notebook.\n\nA tiny brown mouse dashes out of view.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the toilet", "response": "(the toilet)\nIn the toilet are a wad of toilet paper and some excrement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wad", "response": "Swaths of tissue, entire rolls perhaps, clog the toilet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the excrement", "response": "As a health inspector, you're cautious about examining other people's excrement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Behind the bar is a dinky two basin sink with an attached faucet. In the rinse basin is a severed left hand.\n\nBeside the sink is a personal stereo (held together largely with duct tape).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.\n\nThe restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela is gaunt and anemic. She struggles to remain alert.\n\nNikolai pokes his head out from the top office, \"Angela, be a peach and pick up some bread from the food pantry.\"\n\nAngela looks puzzled \"You mean the 5th Avenue Mission?\"\n\n\"Of course that's where I mean. Our regular bread company won't deliver here anymore. Just go to the food pantry and fill up your car.\"\n\n\"I can't take food from a homeless shelter.\"\n\nNikolai's face turns red, \"We need bread, and you can get it free from the mission. Tell them you're a homeless wench. Tell them you've got twelve screaming brats to feed. I don't care. If you won't go there, then go to the store and pay for the bread with your own money, but don't come back without it!\"\n\nAngela lowers her head. She looks like she's about to cry.\n\nAs Angela leaves the restaurant, you notice a small flashlight fall off of her key chain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela is gaunt and anemic. She struggles to remain alert.\n\nNikolai pokes his head out from the top office, \"Angela, be a peach and pick up some bread from the food pantry.\"\n\nAngela looks puzzled \"You mean the 5th Avenue Mission?\"\n\n\"Of course that's where I mean. Our regular bread company won't deliver here anymore. Just go to the food pantry and fill up your car.\"\n\n\"I can't take food from a homeless shelter.\"\n\nNikolai's face turns red, \"We need bread, and you can get it free from the mission. Tell them you're a homeless wench. Tell them you've got twelve screaming brats to feed. I don't care. If you won't go there, then go to the store and pay for the bread with your own money, but don't come back without it!\"\n\nAngela lowers her head. She looks like she's about to cry.\n\nAs Angela leaves the restaurant, you notice a small flashlight fall off of her key chain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the flashlight", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "The flashlight is a pocket size model, which fell off of Angela's key chain.\n\nThe flashlight is switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are in a galley kitchen about eight feet long, and just wide enough for one person to turn around. On the south side facing the dining room is a wooden prep table. On the left end of the prep table is a mini fridge, and on the right end is a steam table.\n\nOpposite the prep table is a flat grill. Dried rivulets of grease ooze down the wall from the overhead vents. A narrow aisle winds north into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the grease", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Use a grill brick to clean the flat grill.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the prep table", "response": "This prep table looks like it may have been nailed together on site, from two by fours and plywood. The cutting surface is scarred with knife marks and grime, providing multiple rich environments for bacterial growth. Beneath the prep table is a storage shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the prep table", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Replace prep table with a fresh undamaged cutting board.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the storage shelf", "response": "A warped plywood shelf below the prep table provides space for the grill cook to cast off his soiled cooking implements.\n\nOn the storage shelf are a pair of tongs, a pot and a fry pan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tongs", "response": "A pair of 10 inch stainless steel fry tongs.\n\nYou note a rat out of the corner of your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the pot", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Clean the spaghetti pot\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fry pan", "response": "A black, cast iron fry pan.\n\nIn the fry pan are some blackened chips of bacon.\n\nA cockroach scuttles up the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the pan", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Fry pan is soiled with bacon grease.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fridge", "response": "The mini fridge sits on the floor, near the left end of prep table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the steam table", "response": "A curved aluminum lid covers the steam table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lid", "response": "the lid curves over the steam table, keeping the heat inside. The lid is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the lid", "response": "A cloud of hot steam rises out of the table. The table contains a kettle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the kettle", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Gravy kettle has not been washed.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close lid", "response": "You close the steam table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fridge", "response": "The mini fridge sits on the floor, near the left end of prep table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "The fridge is a few degrees colder than the rest of the room. It contains a rotting head of lettuce.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lettuce", "response": "The lettuce is more brown than green, and barely a solid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the lettuce", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Produce has been stored past its expiration.\" in the notebook.\n\nA large rat turns to look at you, then runs away.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the lettuce", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the fridge", "response": "You close the mini fridge.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are in a galley kitchen about eight feet long, and just wide enough for one person to turn around. On the south side facing the dining room is a wooden prep table. On the left end of the prep table is a mini fridge, and on the right end is a steam table.\n\nOpposite the prep table is a flat grill. Dried rivulets of grease ooze down the wall from the overhead vents. A narrow aisle winds north into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Grill", "response": "The blackened surface of the flat grill hasn't been cleaned in some time. A dial in front controls the temperature.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at dial", "response": "The printed numbers on the dial have worn away. The grill is switched off.\n\nThe dial is switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial", "response": "You turn the dial. The grill begins to warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial off", "response": "You turn the dial. The grill begins to cool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the prep table", "response": "A warped plywood shelf below the prep table provides space for the grill cook to cast off his soiled cooking implements.\n\nOn the storage shelf are a pair of tongs, a pot and a fry pan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on flashlight", "response": "A narrow beam of light pierces the dusty air.\n\nA narrow hall twists and winds from the prep kitchen (south) to the dish room (north). A walk-in refrigerator is west of here. During every dinner shift, smoke from the kitchen drifts down this hall and deposits an oily film against the brown wall.\n\nMounted on the wall is a first aid kit.\n\nA formidable buffalo chopper is parked against one corner of this twisting labyrinth. This machine probably harbors more than a hundred varieties of pathogens and therefore deserves quite careful attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chopper", "response": "The chopper is old, covered in rust. Drops of fresh blood leak out from the food trough in places where it has rusted completely through. The device has an on/off button, and the rotating trough which is designed to carry large volumes of food past a stationary blade. It isn't quite large enough to accommodate a full size buffalo. But a rabbit or a small dog, perhaps.\n\nThe buffalo chopper is switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trough", "response": "The trough is circular, pocked with rust, and contains some variety of ground meat. Only about a third of the trough is visible. The rest is hidden beneath a cover which protects you from the blade in back.\n\nIn the trough is ground meat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the meat", "response": "A soupy puree of ground organ meat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the chopper", "response": "The cover is held in place by a large screw.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A narrow hall twists and winds from the prep kitchen (south) to the dish room (north). A walk-in refrigerator is west of here. During every dinner shift, smoke from the kitchen drifts down this hall and deposits an oily film against the brown wall.\n\nMounted on the wall is a first aid kit.\n\nA formidable buffalo chopper is parked against one corner of this twisting labyrinth. This machine probably harbors more than a hundred varieties of pathogens and therefore deserves quite careful attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine kit", "response": "The first aid kit is an opaque plastic box with a red cross on the cover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the kit", "response": "You open the first aid kit, revealing a tourniquet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tourniquet", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou hear a mouse scurrying through the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "(the oily film)\nAn oily film is deposited almost evenly over every exposed surface.\n\nA cockroach stares at you boldly, challenging you to smash it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note wall", "response": "(the oily film)\nYou've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Power wash the winding hall-- remove oily film.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tourniquet", "response": "A tourniquet is a curious thing to find in a restaurant first aid kit. It would only ever be useful to stop major arterial bleeding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Nikolai's walk-in refrigerator is kept at a few degrees above zero Celsius. The tight dimensions of this poorly lit unit induce a sense of claustrophobia. The textured metal walls are splashed with now dry remnants of long ago dinner specials. The exit back to the winding hall is east.\n\nA five gallon soup cauldron is pushed carelessly into one corner.\n\nA four tier wire shelf supports an assortment of hotel pans in varied sizes and depths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the remnants", "response": "Streaks of broken eggs, tomato sauce, goulash and other unidentified soups have been reduced to a form of colorful glue against the metal wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cauldron", "response": "The soup cauldron is made of aluminum. It is covered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the remnants", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Clean refrigerator walls.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cauldron", "response": "You are aghast to discover a severed foot festering in the bottom of the cauldron.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the foot", "response": "The left foot is cut cleanly at the ankle, as if by an ax.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close it", "response": "You close the soup cauldron.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelf", "response": "The tiered wire shelf takes up the back wall of the tight walk-in. That is to say, it's not very wide.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pans", "response": "The refrigerator is loaded with hotel pans, carrying left-overs from long ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the pans", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Label, date and organize the refrigerated left-overs.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A narrow hall twists and winds from the prep kitchen (south) to the dish room (north). A walk-in refrigerator is west of here. During every dinner shift, smoke from the kitchen drifts down this hall and deposits an oily film against the brown wall.\n\nMounted on the wall is a first aid kit.\n\nA formidable buffalo chopper is parked against one corner of this twisting labyrinth. This machine probably harbors more than a hundred varieties of pathogens and therefore deserves quite careful attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na tourniquet\na pair of tongs\na flashlight (providing light)\na notepad", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "On entering the dish room you are overwhelmed by the astringent smell of fresh bleach. You would welcome this as evidence of sanitation, except that in such high concentrations bleach is actually toxic. Already you're feeling a little nauseous. A hall winds south into the darkness.\n\nA manhole-size drain cover is set in the floor.\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the cement north wall. The door is sealed tight.\n\nThe largest fixture in this location is a straight unit dish machine, with a stainless steel dish table on either side.\n\nOn the dish table is a dish rack (in which are some servingware).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the servingware", "response": "Plates, cups, saucers and silverware populate the dish rack. None of it looks as if it has been cleaned recently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note it", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Dish racks are piled up around both sides of the dish machine.\" in the notebook.\n\nFrom somewhere below your feet, you hear a muffled thump.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drain cover", "response": "You open the drain cover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the drain", "response": "(the drain cover)\nYou find nothing of interest.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "On entering the dish room you are overwhelmed by the astringent smell of fresh bleach. You would welcome this as evidence of sanitation, except that in such high concentrations bleach is actually toxic. Already you're feeling a little nauseous. A hall winds south into the darkness.\n\nYou step cautiously around the open drain cover.\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the cement north wall. The door is sealed tight.\n\nThe largest fixture in this location is a straight unit dish machine, with a stainless steel dish table on either side.\n\nOn the dish table is a dish rack (in which are some servingware).", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The edges and corners of this brown room are rounded by accumulated cobweb nets, making it look more like a small cave than an urban underground. Moldy pylons and concrete extrusions resemble stalagmites. Wet cardboard boxes stacked along the wall contain empty unrecycled liquor bottles. The humid air smells of death.\n\nYou could escape through the drain pipe in the ceiling.\n\nAt the center of the room is a three foot by six foot sealed crate, composed mostly of particle board.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The alley door is warped from moisture. The door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note the bleach", "response": "You've already made enough observations to have Nikolai's place condemned. One more note is just another nail in the coffin.\n\nYou write, \"Bleach used in dishroom is over concentrated.\" in the notebook.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped two points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "The dish machine is a stainless steel contraption, with a top mounted cabinet just large enough to accommodate one dish rack at a time. It has an on/off switch to start each cycle, which then lasts just over two minutes. This model is designed to be much faster than a home dish washer, but is still pretty small as far as commercial machines go.\n\nThe dish machine is switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You are alarmed to find a severed right foot in the dish machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine foot", "response": "The right foot is burned away from the leg, as if by a plasma torch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close machine", "response": "You close the cabinet.\n\nFrom somewhere below your feet, you hear a muffled thump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "The dish table is made of stainless steel. It is made to the same width as the dish machine, allowing tray racks to slide easily in one side and out the other. The lip and back splash are designed to channel water into the dish machine, and keep it off the floor. Both sides of the table are so thoroughly soiled, you can only guess which side the dishes go in, and which they come out. Racks of dirty dishes are piled on either side.\n\nFrom somewhere below your feet, you hear a muffled thump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "(first unlocking the alley door)\nYou lack a key that fits the alley door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "This place is a tomb. All around you, the putrid nauseating smell of death.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pylons", "response": "The pylons offer support to the floor above, preventing the building from falling into the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine boxes", "response": "The liquor boxes are so thoroughly decayed, they almost crumble to your touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crate", "response": "Judging from the absence of mold or rot, it must have been placed here only recently. The particle board crate is tightly sealed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bottles", "response": "The bottles come in various shades of green and brown. Many are broken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "When you are very quiet, you can hear mice crawling through the walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "(the particle board crate)\nJudging from the absence of mold or rot, it must have been placed here only recently. The particle board crate is tightly sealed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na tourniquet\na pair of tongs\na flashlight (providing light)\na notepad", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the floor", "response": "You see nothing special about the floor.\n\nA large rat turns to look at you, then runs away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "(the particle board crate)\nYour first reflex is to gag. Inside is the dismembered body of an adult female. Her arms and legs have been removed, her abdomen sliced open and disemboweled. Where her eyes were once, empty sockets remain. Having been drained entirely of blood, her skin is now as pale as the clean cotton bed sheet draped across her pelvis.\n\nShe lifts her head, and knocks it three times against the bottom of the box. But no, you must have imagined that. She is dead. Quite dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the body", "response": "The woman has been butchered. Her arms and legs have been removed. Both legs are cut off at the hip. Her abdomen is sliced wide and disemboweled. Where her eyes were once, empty sockets remain. She's been drained of blood leaving her skin as white as the clean cotton bed sheet draped across her pelvis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sheet", "response": "She is naked, except for the sheet. Out of respect for the dead, you leave it in place.\n\nA tiny brown mouse dashes out of view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the abdomen", "response": "Her abdomen is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sheet", "response": "She is naked, except for the sheet. Out of respect for the dead, you leave it in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the abdomen", "response": "Her abdomen is sliced wide. Many of the internal organs have been removed. Others are mutilated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tongs in the abdomen", "response": "You put the pair of tongs into her abdomen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tongs", "response": "That seems to belong to the mutilated corpse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the abdomen", "response": "In her abdomen is a pair of tongs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the tongs to you", "response": "(The mutilated corpse first taking the pair of tongs)\nEven in the better establishments, restaurant people are seldom receptive to your commands. You might try asking them about something or showing them something instead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the body about the restaurant", "response": "You are startled to watch her jaw quiver a bit, but without a working set of lungs the woman can't reply to your questions.\n\nThe body's lips tremble, but no sound comes out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na tourniquet\na flashlight (providing light)\na notepad\n\nThe woman looks mournfully toward the vacant cavity in her severed abdomen.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "On entering the dish room you are overwhelmed by the astringent smell of fresh bleach. You would welcome this as evidence of sanitation, except that in such high concentrations bleach is actually toxic. Already you're feeling a little nauseous. A hall winds south into the darkness.\n\nYou step cautiously around the open drain cover.\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the cement north wall. The door is sealed tight.\n\nThe largest fixture in this location is a straight unit dish machine, with a stainless steel dish table on either side.\n\nOn the dish table is a dish rack (in which are some servingware).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na tourniquet\na pair of tongs\na flashlight (providing light)\na notepad", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the machine", "response": "You open the cabinet, revealing a severed right foot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take foot", "response": "Taken.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped five points.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The edges and corners of this brown room are rounded by accumulated cobweb nets, making it look more like a small cave than an urban underground. Moldy pylons and concrete extrusions resemble stalagmites. Wet cardboard boxes stacked along the wall contain empty unrecycled liquor bottles. The humid air smells of death.\n\nYou could escape through the drain pipe in the ceiling.\n\nAt the center of the room is a three foot by six foot sealed crate, composed mostly of particle board.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open crate", "response": "Your first reflex is to gag. Inside is the dismembered body of an adult female. Her arms and legs have been removed, her abdomen sliced open and disemboweled. Where her eyes were once, empty sockets remain. Having been drained entirely of blood, her skin is now as pale as the clean cotton bed sheet draped across her pelvis.\n\nShe lifts her head, and knocks it three times against the bottom of the box. But no, you must have imagined that. She is dead. Quite dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put foot on the corpse", "response": "You put the severed right foot into the particle board crate.\n\nA mouse runs in circles, then races away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the woman", "response": "You are startled to watch her jaw quiver a bit, but without a working set of lungs the woman can't reply to your questions.\n\nThe woman looks mournfully toward the vacant cavity in her severed abdomen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give foot to the corpse", "response": "The woman is both blind and mute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put foot in the box", "response": "(the particle board crate)\nYou put the severed right foot into the particle board crate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach foot to the body", "response": "But Sofia is still missing her right leg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are standing in front of Nikolai's Bar and Grill on 19th Street.\nA green awning shades the smudged window into Nikolai's dining room. The front entrance is north of you.\n\nThe east/west sidewalk here is cracked and uneven, pocked by clumps of crabgrass. A storm gutter is built into the curb, littered with broken bottles. Across the street a neon sign flickers erratically.\nA few cars are parked nearby (including yours), but otherwise you see no evidence that anyone visits this neighborhood past daybreak.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nA damp sheet of newspaper has blown up against the curb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A street-front window looks into Nikolai's bar. If you want into the bar, you'll have to go back to the restaurant entrance, which is west of here. There are no cars on this end of 19th Street. The sidewalk is uneven. A curb-side storm gutter empties here into a grated storm drain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the eyes with the tongs", "response": "The eyes bob on the surface of the dark pool each time you stab them with the tongs, but after a bit of practice you succeed in removing them from the sewer.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped five points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the paper", "response": "The newspaper scrap is worn and damp, rendering it almost unreadable.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the paper", "response": "You read: \"Sofia Kozyar, a dancer at Hannibal's Exotic Revue, disappeared early Friday morning after leaving her place of employment. Ms Kozyar immigrated to the US from the Ukraine on a student visa seven years ago, then remained in this country illegally after completing her Bachelor's degree in the fine arts. Police have no leads in this investigation.\"\n\nThe other articles on the page are illegible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the glass", "response": "(the broken glass)\nA street sweeper comes down 19th Street on the third of every month. Let them pick up the bottles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are walking past the window to Goldschmidt's Pawnshop (on the north side of 19th Street). Although the shop is closed right now, the window provides a neat display of hocked merchandise. Nikolai's Bar and Grill is east. To the west, the neighborhood becomes even seedier.\n\nGoldschmidt's is closed for the day. The door is locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pawnshop", "response": "The carefully arranged display includes a letter opener, a saxophone and a baby's crib.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the opener", "response": "The letter opener appears to be made of sterling silver. A crucifixion scene is cast in the handle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The window is marked by dozens of greasy finger prints and years of accumulated scratch marks. It should certainly be cleaned, if not replaced. But you can still see through well enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "(first unlocking Goldschmidt's door)\nYou lack a key that fits Goldschmidt's door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "You tap lightly on Goldschmidt's door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You probably shouldn't wander too far from your car. Go finish your inspection at Nikolai's so you can leave this god-forsaken part of town.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are walking past the window to Goldschmidt's Pawnshop (on the north side of 19th Street). Although the shop is closed right now, the window provides a neat display of hocked merchandise. Nikolai's Bar and Grill is east. To the west, the neighborhood becomes even seedier.\n\nGoldschmidt's is closed for the day. The door is locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crib", "response": "The crib is painted blue. It appears to be hand-made.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are standing in front of Nikolai's Bar and Grill on 19th Street.\nA green awning shades the smudged window into Nikolai's dining room. The front entrance is north of you.\n\nThe east/west sidewalk here is cracked and uneven, pocked by clumps of crabgrass. A storm gutter is built into the curb, littered with broken bottles. Across the street a neon sign flickers erratically.\nA few cars are parked nearby (including yours), but otherwise you see no evidence that anyone visits this neighborhood past daybreak.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine awning", "response": "The green awning is made of canvas. It's faded and torn from age, and has hand painted letters across the front.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "Faded yellow letters across the awning once said \"Nikolai's Bar and Grill\", though a more recent graffiti artist has replaced the last two letters in black spray paint to read \"Nikolai's Bar and Grist\". A more appropriate moniker, perhaps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the neon", "response": "A thin tube of glowing red neon curls around itself to form words.\nThe light flickers on and off erratically. Just looking at it is almost seizure inducing. It says, \"Hanibal's Exotic Revue.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "All your business is on the north side of the street. Finish your inspection so you can go home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You probably shouldn't wander too far from your car. Go finish your inspection at Nikolai's so you can leave this god-forsaken neighborhood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crabgrass", "response": "Everywhere the sidewalk is broken, crabgrass grows tenaciously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cars", "response": "There are a small number of cars parked nearby, some likely abandoned. One has been locked with the boot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boot", "response": "A boot is a device used by the police to lock cars which have accrued too many unpaid fines. The boot is secured to one of the the car's tires, and is less expensive than having the car towed. Fortunately parking violations are outside your jurisdiction, and your position as a city health inspector enables you to park in many locations for free.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the car", "response": "Your car is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the boot", "response": "Even if you could, the boot is police property.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Sunlight from the 19th Street window (south) casts an bright trapezoid across the cork dance floor. In every other corner, the brick walls of this unpretentious watering hole are marked by shadows. If you don't mind risking ptomaine poisoning, Nikolai's dining room is to the west. Otherwise, the unisex lavatory is north through a low ceiling tunnel.\n\nA set of Naugahyde stools are pushed against the linoleum bar.\n\nBehind the bar is a dinky two basin sink with an attached faucet. In the rinse basin is a severed left hand.\n\nBeside the sink is a personal stereo (held together largely with duct tape).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hand", "response": "(the severed left hand)\nTaken.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped five points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Nikolai's walk-in refrigerator is kept at a few degrees above zero Celsius. The tight dimensions of this poorly lit unit induce a sense of claustrophobia. The textured metal walls are splashed with now dry remnants of long ago dinner specials. The exit back to the winding hall is east.\n\nA five gallon soup cauldron is pushed carelessly into one corner.\n\nA four tier wire shelf supports an assortment of hotel pans in varied sizes and depths.\n\nA mouse runs in circles, then races away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cauldron", "response": "You open the soup cauldron, revealing a severed left foot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take foot", "response": "(the severed left foot)\nTaken.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped five points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na severed left foot\na severed left hand\na newspaper\nsome pair of eyes\na severed right foot\na tourniquet\na pair of tongs\na flashlight (providing light)\na notepad", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A narrow hall twists and winds from the prep kitchen (south) to the dish room (north). A walk-in refrigerator is west of here. During every dinner shift, smoke from the kitchen drifts down this hall and deposits an oily film against the brown wall.\n\nMounted on the wall is a first aid kit.\n\nA formidable buffalo chopper is parked against one corner of this twisting labyrinth. This machine probably harbors more than a hundred varieties of pathogens and therefore deserves quite careful attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "On entering the dish room you are overwhelmed by the astringent smell of fresh bleach. You would welcome this as evidence of sanitation, except that in such high concentrations bleach is actually toxic. Already you're feeling a little nauseous. A hall winds south into the darkness.\n\nYou step cautiously around the open drain cover.\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the cement north wall. The door is sealed tight.\n\nThe largest fixture in this location is a straight unit dish machine, with a stainless steel dish table on either side.\n\nOn the dish table is a dish rack (in which are some servingware).\n\nA large rat turns to look at you, then runs away.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The edges and corners of this brown room are rounded by accumulated cobweb nets, making it look more like a small cave than an urban underground. Moldy pylons and concrete extrusions resemble stalagmites. Wet cardboard boxes stacked along the wall contain empty unrecycled liquor bottles. The humid air smells of death.\n\nYou could escape through the drain pipe in the ceiling.\n\nAt the center of the room is a three foot by six foot crate, composed mostly of particle board. A mutilated corpse lies in state.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the eyes in the sockets", "response": "You slip each eye into its socket with a plop. The eyes rotate around independently until they are both pointing directly toward you. Her lips tremble. But without a working set of lungs, she can not speak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at flashlight", "response": "The flashlight is a pocket size model, which fell off of Angela's key chain.\n\nThe flashlight is switched on.\n\nThe woman bangs her head against the crate, desperate to communicate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the body", "response": "The woman has been butchered. Her arms and legs have been removed. Both legs are cut off at the hip. Her abdomen is sliced wide and disemboweled. Yet even in death, her eyes are unnaturally animated. They blink and track your movements intently. She's been drained of blood leaving her skin as white as the clean cotton bed sheet draped across her pelvis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the newspaper to the woman", "response": "Her eyes look at you imploringly, but without a working set of lungs her voice is mute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop right foot and left foot and the hand", "response": "severed right foot: Dropped.\nsevered left foot: Dropped.\nsevered left hand: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tongs", "response": "A pair of 10 inch stainless steel fry tongs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na newspaper\na tourniquet\na pair of tongs\na flashlight (providing light)\na notepad", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the screw with the tongs", "response": "The screw can safely be grasped without the aid of the pair of tongs, so you try taking the screw without the pair of tongs.\n\nYou'd need to unscrew that to take it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unscrew the screw", "response": "The screw is rusted in place. Your only other alternative for inspecting the blade is to reach in the trough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You reach in the trough", "response": "You reach under the cover of the trough and cautiously poke around. Wedged against the blade is a pulpy mass of sinewy entrails. With some effort, you jerk the entrails free from the blade.\n\nSuddenly, and without warning, the buffalo chopper roars to life.\nYour sleeve catches against the rusty blade, which stalls momentarily, but seizes your arm deeper into the device. Then the blade spins once again. At first you're not even sure what has happened, but you hear a crunching noise, and feel faint from a sudden drop in blood pressure. With a rush of endorphins, you yank your arm free from the buffalo chopper, and collapse on the floor.\n\nYou are missing a hand. If you don't act quickly, you will die.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped ten points.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The edges and corners of this brown room are rounded by accumulated cobweb nets, making it look more like a small cave than an urban underground. Moldy pylons and concrete extrusions resemble stalagmites. Wet cardboard boxes stacked along the wall contain empty unrecycled liquor bottles. The humid air smells of death.\n\nYou could escape through the drain pipe in the ceiling.\n\nAt the center of the room is a three foot by six foot crate, composed mostly of particle board. A mutilated corpse lies in state.\n\nYou can also see a severed left hand, a severed left foot and a severed right foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hand", "response": "(the severed left hand)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the meat with the tongs", "response": "Ground meat can safely be grasped without the aid of the pair of tongs, so you try taking ground meat without the pair of tongs.\n\nThe lukewarm puree drips through your fingers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the meat", "response": "A soupy puree of ground organ meat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take off the shirt", "response": "You are carrying:\na severed left hand\na newspaper\na tourniquet\na pair of tongs\na flashlight (providing light)\na notepad\n\nSo long as you represent the city health department, you'd best keep your clothes on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use tourniquet", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nI didn't understand that sentence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You fight against excruciating pain to perform even the simplest actions.\n\nYou are carrying:\na severed left hand\na newspaper\na tourniquet", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the tourniquet", "response": "a flashlight (providing light)\na notepad\n\nFighting against the most severe pain, you twist the tourniquet into place. The flow of blood gradually ceases.\n\nA moment later your right hand and the entrails which had been blocking the blade are ejected from the chopper at high velocity.\nThey land on the floor nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Entrails", "response": "severed right hand: Taken.\nentrails: Taken.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped ten points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the entrails", "response": "The entrails have been through a buffalo chopper, rendering the specific organs almost indistinguishable. A muscular tube which resembles sausage casing might be the intestines. A bit of gray matter might be some lung. A darker spot of pulp could be the heart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the hand", "response": "Which do you mean, the severed right hand or the severed left hand?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "On entering the dish room you are overwhelmed by the astringent smell of fresh bleach. You would welcome this as evidence of sanitation, except that in such high concentrations bleach is actually toxic. Already you're feeling a little nauseous. A hall winds south into the darkness.\n\nYou step cautiously around the open drain cover.\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the cement north wall. The door is sealed tight.\n\nThe largest fixture in this location is a straight unit dish machine, with a stainless steel dish table on either side.\n\nOn the dish table is a dish rack (in which are some servingware).\n\nThe edges and corners of this brown room are rounded by accumulated cobweb nets, making it look more like a small cave than an urban underground. Moldy pylons and concrete extrusions resemble stalagmites. Wet cardboard boxes stacked along the wall contain empty unrecycled liquor bottles. The humid air smells of death.\n\nYou could escape through the drain pipe in the ceiling.\n\nAt the center of the room is a three foot by six foot crate, composed mostly of particle board. A mutilated corpse lies in state.\n\nYou can also see a severed left foot and a severed right foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops entrails", "response": "You hear the slurp and gurgle of aspirating fluids as each organ settles into its proper location. Peristaltic waves shiver through the newly reformed intestines. The heart murmurs. Even the lungs gasp for another breath. Then, as if these miracles weren't startling enough, The entire abdomen zips shut, leaving nothing more than a scar.\n\nTo your shock and horror, the woman whispers \"Thank you. My name is Sofia Kozyar. I would appreciate if you could find the rest of me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sofia about Sofia", "response": "\"I am Sofia Kozyar. But enough about me, Darling. Tell me a little more about yourself.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Sofia about yourself", "response": "Sofia coos, \"You're an attractive fellow. Why don't you lean in and give me a little kiss?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sofia about the restaurant", "response": "Sofia laughs, \"Have you sampled the food here? Simply abysmal.\"\n\nSofia remarks, \"You're a pretty one, my pet.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her about the right hand", "response": "Sofia examines the severed right hand carefully. \"You carry around so many curious things.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her about Nikolai", "response": "\"Nikolai is a dying brute, but even with his affliction I fear he is still more powerful than you, Darling. You must help me escape. I can subdue him, then we can rule his roost as Queen and King. Won't that be delightful?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss sofia", "response": "You lean in to offer the woman a soft peck on the cheek. Quite", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss sofia", "response": "suddenly her head spins, and her teeth seize your neck. You struggle to keep her from pulling you into her coffin. A moment later you are released.\n\nYou feel a warm trickle of blood on your neck, but she merely smiles as if nothing had happened.\nShe coos, \"Darling, you kiss marvelously.\"\n\nOnce bitten, twice shy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her about Angela", "response": "Sofia says, \"Nikolai feeds on her like she's a trough. I pity that worn out serving wench.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her about vampirism", "response": "Sofia says, \"I like talking to you. Why don't you lean in and give me a little kiss?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sofia about the vampire", "response": "\"The world is wide open and mysterious. Anything is possible, don't you think?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the newspaper to Sofia", "response": "Sofia scans the article. \"I'm so happy you discovered me in this tomb, when even the police could not.\"\n\nSofia says, \"I like when you talk to me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour severed right hand\na severed left hand\na newspaper\na tourniquet (being worn)\na pair of tongs\na flashlight (providing light)\na notepad", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the tourniquet to Sofia", "response": "Sofia examines the tourniquet carefully. \"You carry around so many curious things.\"\n\nSofia moves her head to follow your motions.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The edges and corners of this brown room are rounded by accumulated cobweb nets, making it look more like a small cave than an urban underground. Moldy pylons and concrete extrusions resemble stalagmites. Wet cardboard boxes stacked along the wall contain empty unrecycled liquor bottles. The humid air smells of death.\n\nYou could escape through the drain pipe in the ceiling.\n\nAt the center of the room is a three foot by six foot crate, composed mostly of particle board. Sofia lies in state.\n\nYou can also see a severed left foot and a severed right foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A narrow hall twists and winds from the prep kitchen (south) to the dish room (north). A walk-in refrigerator is west of here. During every dinner shift, smoke from the kitchen drifts down this hall and deposits an oily film against the brown wall.\n\nMounted on the wall is a first aid kit.\n\nA formidable buffalo chopper is parked against one corner of this twisting labyrinth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nSince the last time you were here, Nikolai has managed to transport himself down those treacherous steps to the Dining Room. He sits on one of those tiny dining room chairs, which appears barely capable of supporting his weight. Angela has returned from her bread run. She sits across Nikolai's lap, scarcely conscious, with just a trace of blood dribbling from twin teeth marks in her neck. Nikolai looks up from her neck, with blood stains on his own fat face, \"You're next, Mr. Health Inspector. I knew you'd cause me trouble when you walked in here.\"\n\nSince your last tour through the dining room, Nikolai has locked and barred the front door to prevent your escape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mirror", "response": "In the mirror you see The window is scratched, but intact.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAbout twelve tables are closely spaced within the small location.\n\nDozens of identical chairs are pushed snug against the four top tables.\nYou also see Angela's body, Nikolai and yourself.\n\nNikolai grins at you and licks his lips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nikolai about Sofia", "response": "Nikolai pales. \"I don't know who you're talking about.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nikolai about the key", "response": "\"She'd be better with a little catsup. Watch out, you're next.\"\n\nNikolai growls, \"I lose a lot of business because of you.\"\n\nA tiny brown mouse dashes out of view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Angela", "response": "Angela is a dark haired woman, not quite 50, now unconscious. Her neck and shoulders are marked by numerous scars.\n\nNikolai shifts his weight. The chair creaks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "Nikolai pursues you up the stairs, huffing and wheezing from the effort. You double your speed just in time to escape his reach. Nikolai is left stranded and out of breath back on the fifth step.\n\nNikolai's office is an ill-maintained balcony sky box above his restaurant. A window looks out over the restaurant. But as you could see earlier, the dining room side is mirrored such that employees and guests can't see in. A rickety set of steps leads back to the main floor. The plaster walls are water stained and cracked. A single unfrosted bulb hangs from the ceiling by a loose wire. Mounds of unpaid invoices litter Nikolai's wooden desk.\n\nOn Nikolai's desk are a brass key and a book.\n\nA plastic pitcher sits on the floor in the corner of the office, filled with some foamy amber liquid.\n\nYour heart is racing.\n\nYou hear a mouse scurrying through the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "The volume is small and weather-beaten. The cover is so dark you can scarcely read the title: \"Lore of the Vampires\". Chapters are written in several different languages. Many of the pages are stained.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pitcher", "response": "This is a one quart plastic pitcher, just like those used in the bar or dining room for delivering beer to customers.\n\nIn the plastic pitcher is an amber liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell liquid", "response": "You are overwhelmed by an ammonia odor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Nikolai's office is an ill-maintained balcony sky box above his restaurant. A window looks out over the restaurant. But as you could see earlier, the dining room side is mirrored such that employees and guests can't see in. A rickety set of steps leads back to the main floor. The plaster walls are water stained and cracked. A single unfrosted bulb hangs from the ceiling by a loose wire. Mounds of unpaid invoices litter Nikolai's wooden desk.\n\nOn Nikolai's desk is a book.\n\nA plastic pitcher sits on the floor in the corner of the office, filled with some foamy amber liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "This window allows Nikolai to observe his staff and customers from the privacy of his own office. A man his size, and in such poor physical condition, can't easily navigate those steps. To communicate, Nikolai barks insults at the people in his Dining Room below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "Nikolai's has an old aluminum desk. It is painted olive drab in places, and gray where the enamel has chipped away.\n\nOn Nikolai's desk are mounds of unpaid invoices and a book.\n\nA cockroach scurries across the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the invoices", "response": "Some of these invoices are dated from months ago. It seems that Nikolai isn't very timely about paying his bills.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "Nikolai's has an old aluminum desk. It is painted olive drab in places, and gray where the enamel has chipped away.\n\nOn Nikolai's desk are mounds of unpaid invoices and a book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "That's not something you can open.\n\nA tiny brown mouse dashes out of view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "You read: \"Lore of the Vampires\". Two chapter titles catch your attention: \"Vampire Culture\" and \"Killing Vampires\". Most of the remaining chapters are written in an unfamiliar Slavic language.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the Vampire Culture", "response": "You read: Vampire Culture.\n\nBratislavan vampires, like their Transylvanian cousins, require nightly aliquots of blood for their continued immortality. But unlike the Transylvanians, who are mostly solitary in habit, the Bratislavan vampires fight actively amongst themselves for territory, a stable of victims and general dominance. The most dominant vampire in a given territory is the arch-vampire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read killing Vampires", "response": "You read: Killing Vampires\n\nMethods for warding or killing a vampire are so widely known, they are now almost clich?. For warding: either a wreath of garlic or a wooden cross worn around the neck should effectively ward off both the Bratislavan and Transylvanian type vampires. For killing, only a weapon made of silver has any permanent effect.\n\nOf course one is not likely to find these implements (garlic, crosses, or silver weapons) in the vampire's own abode. This creates a problem for Bratislavan vampires who desire nothing so much as to kill and dominate their rivals. They achieve this without the use of silver (which might be turned against them) by dismembering their opponents and scattering the remaining parts as widely as possible. Yet even this gruesome ritual is impermanent. The dismembered parts of a vampire retain their own force of will, and strive to reassemble themselves by whatever means available.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downward", "response": "The restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela's unconscious body is propped like a rag doll across Nikolai's corpulent lap.\n\nNikolai is here, lapping blood from Angela's neck. He shoots you a look of contempt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "On entering the dish room you are overwhelmed by the astringent smell of fresh bleach. You would welcome this as evidence of sanitation, except that in such high concentrations bleach is actually toxic. Already you're feeling a little nauseous. A hall winds south into the darkness.\n\nYou step cautiously around the open drain cover.\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the cement north wall. The door is sealed tight.\n\nThe largest fixture in this location is a straight unit dish machine, with a stainless steel dish table on either side.\n\nOn the dish table is a dish rack (in which are some servingware).\n\nA cockroach scuttles up the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with key", "response": "You unlock the alley door.\n\nYou hear a mouse scurrying through the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "You open the alley door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Windowless brick walls rise three stories on either side of you, blocking out most of the sunlight. The cobbled alley slopes down hill at a dangerous pitch. You won't be able to get back to the street from here however, as the top of the alley ends in a dead end, and the bottom is securely gated, locked from the other side\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the brick. It leads south back to the dish room. The door is open.\n\nA rectangular green dumpster is parked at the dead end. Greasy effluent leaks from the sides and bottom, meandering downhill between the cobbles to form a slick but irregular path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You note effluent", "response": "Your writing hand has been amputated. You need to find a way back to your car and get some help!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the green dumpster, revealing a tangled mound of putrefying human limbs: a severed left arm, a severed right arm, a severed left leg and a severed right leg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all from it", "response": "severed left arm: Taken.\nsevered right arm: Taken.\nsevered left leg: Taken.\nsevered right leg: Taken.\n\n[Nikolai's sanitation rating has dropped twenty points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the left arm", "response": "A bloodied left arm, hacked off at the shoulder and at the hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "On entering the dish room you are overwhelmed by the astringent smell of fresh bleach. You would welcome this as evidence of sanitation, except that in such high concentrations bleach is actually toxic. Already you're feeling a little nauseous. A hall winds south into the darkness.\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the cement north wall. The door is open.\n\nYou step cautiously around the open drain cover.\n\nThe largest fixture in this location is a straight unit dish machine, with a stainless steel dish table on either side.\n\nOn the dish table is a dish rack (in which are some servingware).", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "The edges and corners of this brown room are rounded by accumulated cobweb nets, making it look more like a small cave than an urban underground. Moldy pylons and concrete extrusions resemble stalagmites. Wet cardboard boxes stacked along the wall contain empty unrecycled liquor bottles. The humid air smells of death.\n\nYou could escape through the drain pipe in the ceiling.\n\nAt the center of the room is a three foot by six foot crate, composed mostly of particle board. Sofia lies in state.\n\nYou can also see a severed left foot and a severed right foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take left foot and right foot", "response": "severed left foot: Taken.\nsevered right foot: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the left arm on Sofia", "response": "Almost before you release it, the left arm wriggles snakelike into location near the woman's shoulder. Muscle and sinew, then skin all regenerate between the disjointed limb and body. The air crackles. Your nose burns with the stench of cauterized flesh.\n\nThe woman flexes her left arm. She coos, \"it still tingles. But Darling, you must still bring me my hand.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the right arm on Sofia", "response": "You hear a sudden crack, like bone breaking in reverse. Skin and tissue then grow over the freshly attached right arm at stop-action speed.\n\nThe woman flexes her right arm. She coos, \"it still tingles. But Sweetie, you must still bring me my hand.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the left leg on Sofia", "response": "The left leg doesn't fit into its socket at quite the right angle. Sofia grimaces as it twists into place. The skin which grows over is purple and gangrenous. But not a moment later the gangrenous stench has disipated and the skin color fades to a mottled bruise.\n\nThe woman flexes her left leg. She coos, \"it still tingles. But Darling, you must still bring me my foot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the right leg on Sofia", "response": "Sofia looks with excitement as you lower the final limb into her coffin. She leans toward you so that the right leg locks into exactly the right place. The air crackles more loudly than before, filling the entire room with the smoke and stench of cauterization.\n\nThe woman flexes her right leg. She coos, \"it still tingles. But Sweetie, you must still bring me my foot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put left foot on Sofia", "response": "The air is filled with a smell of searing flesh. Muscle and tissue regenerate unnaturally to produce a whole working leg.\n\nA large rat turns to look at you, then runs away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put right foot on Sofia", "response": "The air is filled with a smell of searing flesh. Muscle and tissue regenerate unnaturally to produce a whole working leg.\n\nSofia says, \"I like when you talk to me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the left hand on Sofia", "response": "The air is filled with a smell of searing flesh. Muscle and tissue regenerate unnaturally to produce a whole working arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the right hand on Sofia", "response": "The air is filled with a smell of searing flesh. Muscle and tissue regenerate unnaturally to produce a whole working arm.\n\nSofia's body levitates out of her coffin until she has risen nearly to the ceiling. Then she rotates upright to face you, still suspended at least four feet above the ground.\n\n\"You have done good work today, my little hero. And since I fancy you, I will now help you escape.\"\n\"You are a sharp fellow. By now I expect you've figured out the situation on your own and I don't have to belabor my strained relationship with Nikolai. We are both, to put it crudely, vampires. When I moved into the neighborhood a few years ago, he still had the power to subordinate me. But I knew he was being weakened by diabetes and it would not be long before I would inherit his territory.\nNikolai knew this as well. So to prevent my challenge to his dominance he had me abducted and slaughtered.\"\n\nSofia smiles. \"Now, I suppose, is the time for my revenge.\" She levitates out of this location to the dish room, then out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "On entering the dish room you are overwhelmed by the astringent smell of fresh bleach. You would welcome this as evidence of sanitation, except that in such high concentrations bleach is actually toxic. Already you're feeling a little nauseous. A hall winds south into the darkness.\n\nYou step cautiously around the open drain cover.\n\nA warped wooden door is set into the cement north wall. The door is open.\n\nThe largest fixture in this location is a straight unit dish machine, with a stainless steel dish table on either side.\n\nOn the dish table is a dish rack (in which are some servingware).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in crate", "response": "The particle board crate is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Angela is dead on the floor, her life force sucked dry. Blood and other pieces of Nikolai are scattered around the room as if he had swallowed a hand grenade. The front door is blasted open. Yet there was no hand grenade which did this. The largest part of his remains have landed on a table. Sofia levitates magically above them, lapping the blood from his various wounds.\n\nShe is, at present, unaware that you've entered the room.\n\nThe restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela lies dead on the floor.\n\nNikolai's remains are scattered throughout the room.\n\nSofia hovers several feet above the dining room tables, lapping blood from Nikolai's remains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine remains", "response": "Nikolai's Remains cover nearly every exposed surface of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "In the mirror you see The window is scratched, but intact.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela lies dead on the floor.\n\nAbout twelve tables are closely spaced within the small location.\n\nDozens of identical chairs are pushed snug against the four top tables.\nYou also see yourself, Nikolai and Sofia.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are standing in front of Nikolai's Bar and Grill on 19th Street.\nA green awning shades the smudged window into Nikolai's dining room. The front entrance is north of you.\n\nThe east/west sidewalk here is cracked and uneven, pocked by clumps of crabgrass. A storm gutter is built into the curb, littered with broken bottles. Across the street a neon sign flickers erratically.\nA few cars are parked nearby (including yours), but otherwise you see no evidence that anyone visits this neighborhood past daybreak.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the placard", "response": "That seems to be a part of the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the window", "response": "The window shatters, dropping shards of glass on both sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the letter opener", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou hear the wail of distant sirens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The restaurant area of Nikolai's is relatively small: no more than a dozen four top tables, many still littered with yesterday's crumbs. A larger bar area--the primary source of revenue here--lies to the east. A rickety staircase leads to small balcony outside Nikolai's office loft. A wide mirror is mounted on the wall high above, right near his office entrance.\n\nOn the south end of the room, a long window provides an unattractive view of the street. The galley kitchen is north of here.\n\nAn aluminum placard is fixed to the front door.\n\nAngela lies dead on the floor.\n\nNikolai's remains are scattered throughout the room.\n\nSofia hovers several feet above the dining room tables, lapping blood from Nikolai's remains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill Sofia with the letter opener", "response": "Though it feels awkward to strike with your left hand, the letter opener slides into Sofia's chest as easily as a hot knife through butter. Sofia's mouth drops. Her expression speaks a sense of betrayal. Then her body is overcome with epileptic seizures. You are deafened by a momentary blast of thunder. Sofia has disintegrated. Nothing remains but fly-size specks of blood and tissue painted against walls and ceiling. You race to your car to vacate the neighborhood before police arrive.\n\nYou read in the newspaper the next day that police are unable to explain the carnage and gore they discovered at Nikolai's Bar and Grill that morning. Police are still looking for the culprit.\n\nAs for you, you are happy to have destroyed a coven of vampires. It is a shame that you became afflicted by the means of Sofia's kiss.\nNow every night you find yourself trolling the streets for your own stable of victims.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill yourself with the opener", "response": "You are surprised at how easily the letter opener pierces your body, and shocked at how much pain it causes. Your body convulses in epileptic fits. That pain seems to continue for an eternity.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Humor" ]

[ "Adrift 4", "cover art", "death", "homage", "humor", "IF Competition 2007", "IFComp Game", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2007", "XYZZY Best Story" ]

[ 1, 13, 9, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Loading game...\n\n1 : Read Me First\n\n2 : Credits and Thanks\n\n3 : Begin Reaping\n\nPlease Choose an Option.\n\nVer 1.0 2007.\nWritten in ADRIFT by James Webb (aka revgiblet)\nPlease feel free to send any feedback to revgiblet@gmail.com\nAny similarities to anything you have witnessed, written or anyone you know is purely coincidental. Frankly I'd find it incredible if you've ever witnessed any of the situations in this game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "It's a fairly easy life being the Grim Reaper. People often make the mistake of assuming that you appear at every death. Of course, that's a mistake that they only tend to make once. The reality is quite different. Death tends to happen to people whether you are there or not, you actually only show up for the more unusual cases. Every now or then someone will put up a fight and not take death lying down. That's when you show up to make sure that they play by the rules. Essentially, you're a high stakes baliff.\n\nEvery day your Supervisors mail you a list of the difficult cases.\nYou have twelve hours to make sure that souls are reaped and the wages of sin are paid. Welcome to a day in the life of Death.\n\nThis will tell you how long you have left before the day ends. You don't want to know what happens if you don't finish reaping the alloted souls within the time limit.\n\nWhere 'X' equals your destination. You own a skeletal horse, named Horse (you are not known for your imagination). Tell him/her where you want to go and he/she (it's difficult to sex skeletal horses) will take you there. To return to your home then use the simple command say home to horse\n\nThe ultimate command. Provided that you are holding your scythe and can get to your client, this will send the death-shy soul to the afterlife. You must utilise this command on all clients to complete the game.\n\n1 : Read Me First\n\n2 : Credits and Thanks\n\n3 : Begin Reaping\n\nPlease Choose an Option.\n\nVer 1.0 2007.\nWritten in ADRIFT by James Webb (aka revgiblet)\nPlease feel free to send any feedback to revgiblet@gmail.com\nAny similarities to anything you have witnessed, written or anyone you know is purely coincidental. Frankly I'd find it incredible if you've ever witnessed any of the situations in this game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "I owe the following people something, so I thought a 'Thank You' here would do. Most of them will probably never read it anyway. Still, it's the thought that counts.\n\nThanks to...\n\nCampbell Wild for the ADRIFT generator. Now the stories in my head can come to life. And is that your real name? It's kind of cool.\n\nwelcome and giving (mostly) good advice.\n\nDavid Whyld, de budding and Ren for beta testing my first game, The Sisters. The advice they gave and changes they suggested made it ten times better than it originally was (before it was only worth 0.5 out of 10)\n\nAll the people who played, reviewed and voted for The Sisters during the 12th Annual IF Competition. The whole experience encouraged me to keep writing. So this game is mostly your fault.\n\nrotter for Unauthorized Termination and inspiration for text formatting.\n\nLumin for beta testing this game and pointing out my clumsy punctuation skillz.\n\nwww.strange-facts.com for giving me some...err...strange facts.\nTerry Pratchett for the Discworld books. I could make a convincing case for the fact that my anthropomorphic Death is very different from his anthropomorphic Death, but seeing as I got the idea for this game when I was reading Reaper Man it's a futile exercise.\n\n1 : Read Me First\n\n2 : Credits and Thanks\n\n3 : Begin Reaping\n\nPlease Choose an Option.\n\nVer 1.0 2007.\nWritten in ADRIFT by James Webb (aka revgiblet)\nPlease feel free to send any feedback to revgiblet@gmail.com\nAny similarities to anything you have witnessed, written or anyone you know is purely coincidental. Frankly I'd find it incredible if you've ever witnessed any of the situations in this game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You are standing in your living room. It's quite small and cosy, with panel flooring and painted walls (black, of course). A bookcase stands against one wall. On another is a shelf, on which rests your CD player and collection of CDs. A comfy, well-worn leather armchair lies right bang in the centre of the room facing the only window. You often like to sit on the chair staring out into the empty, black void of time and space that your home backs on to. It's not a great view, but it's something to look at.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying the Golden Hourglass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hourglass", "response": "The grains of sand tell you that you have twelve hours left to complete your contract.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You are about six foot five inches tall, dressed in the blackest robes anyone has ever seen. Your hairless, so-pale-it's-almost-translucent skin is stretched across your skull like clingfilm on a billiard ball. Your eyes are about the only thing in this reality that are darker than your robes, and your spindly, gaunt hands protrude from your sleeves like a bunch of chopsticks. You secretly think of yourself as 'quite handsome'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cds", "response": "You're not sure if two CDs can rightly be called a collection, but if they can then this is your CD collection. You have The Eagles: Greatest Hits 1971-1975 and the CD single of Candle in the Wind 1997 by Elton John.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the books", "response": "You pick up a diary at random and flick to a page.\n\nWhen I saw that it was Friday the 13th I should have known that I was in for a bad day. I accidentally materialised in the middle of the ladies changing room at a swimming pool. People were throwing things at me and screaming. It doesn't take much to discourage me. Perhaps I'm not cut out for this job after all? Well, I'm sure something good will come along soon. Chin up and all that!\n\nYou put the book back on the shelf. You can see no need to take any of them with you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are standing in your living room. It's quite small and cosy, with panel flooring and painted walls (black, of course). A bookcase stands against one wall. On another is a shelf, on which rests your CD player and collection of CDs. A comfy, well-worn leather armchair lies right bang in the centre of the room facing the only window. You often like to sit on the chair staring out into the empty, black void of time and space that your home backs on to. It's not a great view, but it's something to look at.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nThe hallway has thick, plush red carpet which always tickles your toes a little bit. It goes quite well with the black, pannelled walls. At the south end is your imposing front door. There are a series of hooks by the door on which you could hang your coat, if you wore a coat that is. A small bin sits by the door. There is also a full-length mirror on one wall. As you're the last sight some people see, it's quite right that you check that you look presentable.\n\nExits: East, South and West\n\nYou can see some mail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the mail", "response": "You bend down and scoop up your mail. It's one of life's great mysteries. If you have any work that day your Supervisors mail it to you in the morning. In all your time you have never once met the postman. Sometimes you wonder if you should get a dog just to see what would happen. Something big and evil. A hellhound or a pitbull. Something like that.\n\nYou have two letters today. The first is a white envelope addressed to a \"Mr. G. Raper\" and bearing the stamp of \"Blackbury Banking Services\". Puzzled, you tear it open and read.\n\nDear Mr GRaper.\nHave we got an offer for you!!?? You, and others in your specially selected postcode region, have been chosen to take part in our amazing, introductory offer! We're offering you a free - that's right FREE - credit card with GBP10,000 limit*! ARE WE CRAZY??\n\nAt this point you throw the letter in the bin. You live in the darkest, emptiest void of time and space in this reality; you are the only living (using the term loosely) soul in this dimension and yet you still get junk mail. It's enough to make you livid! You turn to the other letter, which comes in the unmarked, large brown envelope that your Supervisors use when they want to contact you. It looks like you've got some work to do today. You open it and begin to read.\n\nYou have five clients today. Four standard cases and one administrative error...\n\nYou roll your eyes. Administrative errors are the worst. It means that the paperwork has got screwed up somewhere along the line and some poor idiot is not where they should be when they're fated to die. As usual, it's up to you to clear up somebody else's mess. You carry on reading, though you know the words off by heart now.\n\nPlease find attached the details of the clients. These clients will die, as fated, but for some reason will refuse or be unable to progress to their destination. Reap their souls to complete the cycle. You must complete this task by the end of the day. Thank you.\n\nYou discard the letter and read the attached list.\n\nLord Nigel McWorthington - Himilayas, Nepal\n\nErnest Busset - Manchester, England\n\nJimiyu Wangai - Wajir, Kenya\n\nAgathe Laurent - Paris, France\n\nSplong5b - Nevada, USA\n\nYou pocket the list. Let's go to work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bin", "response": "It's a small, metal bin. Lying in the bin is a letter from Blackbury Banking Services.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the mirror", "response": "You'd be surprised, but being a very tall, very thin, apparition of terror doesn't attract as much attention as you'd think. As most people don't believe in you, the first thought that goes through their heads doesn't tend to be \"Is that the Grim Reaper? IT IS THE GRIM REAPER! I'M GOING TO DIE! I'M GOING TO DIE!\" but rather something more mundane about a fancy dress party or the current government's lax attitude to mental health care. You tend to move about the world of mortals attracting hardly any attention at all. This perplexes you a little bit.\n\nYou give a grunt of approval as you check yourself in the mirror. Looking good!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The hallway has thick, plush red carpet which always tickles your toes a little bit. It goes quite well with the black, pannelled walls. At the south end is your imposing front door. There are a series of hooks by the door on which you could hang your coat, if you wore a coat that is. A small bin sits by the door. There is also a full-length mirror on one wall. As you're the last sight some people see, it's quite right that you check that you look presentable.\n\nExits: East, South and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nYou are standing in your kitchen. To this day you can't think why you made this room into a kitchen. You don't actually eat. The back window, over the kitchen sink, looks out into the void. The washing machine sits against one wall and a wooden table in the centre of the room. It has only a single chair. You don't get any visitors. On one wall there is a cork pinboard in the shape of an elephant (with the words Don't Forget! playfully inscribed on it). There are several notes pinned to it.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the washing machine", "response": "You gave up trying to wash your own robes a long time ago. It's just easier to take them to a dry cleaner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the washing mashine", "response": "Open what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the notes", "response": "You scan the notes. - Remember Horse's birthday present!!! -, - Wrote in wrong diary yesterday! Correct it! -, - Get more paper for notes!!! - and - Out of cheese. - You don't remember writing that last one. There is also a ticket pinned to the board from the dry cleaners in San Fransisco. You left a robe with them for a clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ticket", "response": "You unpin the ticket from the board and put it in your pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "You don't really need a window. A hole in the wall would have done just as well. It's never too cold or too hot and you never get any visitors. It just seemed like a good idea at the time...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "It's a kitchen sink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the sink", "response": "It's a kitchen sink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read ticket", "response": "It's a small piece of paper informing you that Happy Go Lucky Dry Clean in San Fransisco currently has a black dress belonging to a Mr. G. Reaper. The ticket also says Please present ticket to collect item.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nYou are standing on a garden path. You don't have a garden so technically it should just be called 'a path'. The path leads through the void of emptiness from your house to the stable where Horse lives.\n\nExits: North and South", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine void", "response": "You see nothing special. In fact you don't see anything at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nYou are in your stable. Despite your best efforts, the small, rough wooden structure seems more homely than your own house. Horse doesn't eat (or go to the toilet) but in accordance with universal laws the floor is covered in hay and the place smells of horse poo. In one corner is a large whetstone. Fixed to the north wall are the brackets where you rest your scythe when you're not using it.\n\nExits: North\n\nYou can see The Grim Reaper's Scythe.\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the scythe", "response": "Wickedly sharp and imposing, this is your weapon of choice for reaping souls. It's a metaphor for your ability to harvest people from the land of the living, so it doesn't actually need to be a scythe but you find that people expect it. It's the look of the thing. Your Supervisors have gone to the trouble of making it invisible to mortal eyes after that embarrasing incident at JFK airport six months ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "[take The Grim Reaper's Scythe]\nYou pick up the Grim Reaper's Scythe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Horse", "response": "Horse is a skeletal steed. S/He has been your faithful companion from the beginning, whenever that was. It's hard to come across as being noble when you're nothing but a collection of bones held together by some unknown, mysterious force but Horse manages it quite well. An equine skeleton is not something that most people would expect to see, so they don't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the whetstone", "response": "It's a large whetstone for sharpening blades. You use it to keep your scythe sharp, though you don't really need to bother. It's always as sharp as it needs to be. You just got into the habit of sharpening it every now and then, and you tend to be a very habitual person.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hourglass", "response": "The grains of sand tell you that you have eleven and a half hours left to complete your contract.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sharpen scythe", "response": "You check your scythe. It's sharp enough as it is. No need to waste time sharpening it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You are about six foot five inches tall, dressed in the blackest robes anyone has ever seen. Your hairless, so-pale-it's-almost-translucent skin is stretched across your skull like clingfilm on a billiard ball. Your eyes are about the only thing in this reality that are darker than your robes, and your spindly, gaunt hands protrude from your sleeves like a bunch of chopsticks. You secretly think of yourself as 'quite handsome'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the list", "response": "The list of your clients for today. It reads...\n\nLord Nigel McWorthington - Himilayas, Nepal\n\nErnest Busset - Manchester, England\n\nJimiyu Wangai - Wajir, Kenya\n\nAgathe Laurent - Paris, France\n\nSplong5b - Nevada, USA", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say nepal to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nMountain Pass (Himilayas)\n\nYou are standing on a thin path that is winding through the snowy, Himilayan mountain range. The view is lovely, but it isn't half chilly here. Your feet are getting cold and the wind is whipping right up your robe. Right in front of you is a huge snowdrift, under which is buried the body of one of your clients - Lord Nigel McWorthington.\n\nExits: No Exits\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.\n\nLord Nigel McWorthington gazed out over the crisp, snowy scene and smiled. He was glad that he'd decided to do this; that he'd decided to celebrate his sixtieth birthday by trekking through the Himilayas. His family had insisted on a surprise party, despite the fact that his doctor had warned them against giving him any sudden shocks. Then again, his doctor had warned him against mountain climbing too. But he wouldn't trade this for anything. The view was splendid and stretched for miles, and it almost made him shake off the nagging feeling that he really should have been at that surprise party. Sure, the family would be disappointed when he didn't show up, but they should have made a better effort to make sure that he wouldn't find out. He wasn't stupid. Leaving the guest list out where he could find it wasn't too clever for a start. But that didn't really explain the feeling. It wasn't guilt but rather something else. Something he couldn't quite put his finger on.\n\nHe pushed the feeling back again and looked into the sunshine, lifting his hands above his head. He felt so alive! He almost let out a cry of triumph, but stopped just in time. There's no telling what might cause an avalanche in this part of the world. Just then he heard a rush of wind behind him, he turned and...\n\n...found himself staring at a skeletal horse, ridden by a tall, ghastly apparition of horror, who seemed to be reading a list...\n\nLord Nigel McWorthington screamed at the top of his voice and gripped his chest. The scream rebounded off the mountain walls and was suddenly silenced by an ominous rumbling sound from above. He looked up at the avalanche descending rapidly, turned once again to the horrifying apparition and managed the words \"You complete and utter...\" before he was buried under a crushing weight of snow.\n\nYou shrug and climb off Horse. This was clearly Nigel McWorthington, and you suspect that he is (you mean was) the administrative error. Seems that death caught up with him after all. You smile at the double entendre and turn your attention to the scene. To reap his soul you have to get to the body, which is currently under thirty foot of snow. You scratch your head in puzzlement. Why are these things never easy?\n\nMountain Pass (Himilayas)\n\nYou are standing on a thin path that is winding through the snowy, Himilayan mountain range. The view is lovely, but it isn't half chilly here. Your feet are getting cold and the wind is whipping right up your robe. Right in front of you is a huge snowdrift, under which is buried the body of one of your clients - Lord Nigel McWorthington.\n\nExits: No Exits\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig the snowdrift", "response": "With what? Your bare hands? No way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say homedepot to Horse", "response": "No-one pays any attention to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Manchester to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nCellar (Manchester)\n\nThis is a dark and dank cellar underneath a house in Manchester. The tough, red brick did a good job of containing the blast from the exploded time machine. The remains of said time machine sit in the centre of the cellar, nothing more than a twisted pile of metal and wires. In one corner of the room is a stairwell, in the other a workbench and varied selection of tools and objects that look suspiciously mechanical.\n\nExits: Up\n\nYou can see Ernest Busset's shoe.\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic. Thomas Brewer stands here, looking around the cellar thoughtfully.\n\n\"If this works we'll be famous!\" chattered Ernest Busset, excitedly.\n\n\"That's understating it slightly, Ernest.\" said Thomas Brewer, sardonically.\n\n\"Just think of it, man! Time travel! We'll be...famous!\" Ernest Busset could barely contain his excitement.\n\n\"Are you sure this will work? I'm not confident myself. I know we've run through the figures a million times but...well, I've just got a bad feeling about this. What if it doesn't work?\" Thomas sounded very, very worried.\n\n\"Nonsense! This must work! As you said yourself, we've gone through the figures a million times. Now. Stand back.\"\n\nErnest sat himself into the contraption. It looked like the cockpit of a glider, surrounded by a mass of wires and bits and pieces of metal. Ernest fiddled with the controls in front of him. They looked like they had been cobbled together from bits and pieces of old games consoles. A digital readout flashed excitedly in front of his eyes.\n\n\"Yes, yes. See, that's what I'm talking about. If you're so confident it will work then why are you telling me to 'stand back'?\" Thomas did, however, take several large steps backwards as he said this.\n\n\"Just in case! Who knows what will happen? Who knows if the field will be purely contained to the machine? I wouldn't want you getting sucked back through time with me! You need to stay here and document our success from this end!\" Ernest was idly flipping a switch back and forth.\n\n\"See, you're doing it again. 'Who knows what will happen?' Is that supposed to inspire confidence?\"\n\n\"Just relax, old boy. Think about what you're going to do when we are no longer constrained by time! What will you do with this power?\"\n\n\"I'm going to go back in time and kill Hitler's parents.\" Thomas looked grim, his lips set in a firm line. Ernest looked puzzled.\n\n\"I wouldn't do that, old boy. That sort of thing would just make Hitler really angry, wouldn't it? I wouldn't have thought he was the sort of fellow you'd want to get on the bad side of.\"\n\n\"No. You've misunderstood.\" 'Again' Thomas added mentally, \"I would kill them before he was born.\"\n\n\"That doesn't make sense, man! I mean, how can they be Hitler's parents until they have had a baby called Hitler? Stands to reason!\" said Ernest, cheerfully.\n\n\"Never mind,\" Thomas muttered, \"Look. Be careful\" he added, surprised at how much he meant it.\n\n\"No problem! Just watch this!\" Ernest cheered, as he reached out and pushed a button.\n\nThere was a whirring noise, which increased in intensity until it ended abruptly in a rather large explosion. Thomas Brewer was thrown back against the far wall, and crumpled to a heap on the floor. He looked up from his prone position to see a tattered, charred shoe fall in front of him.\n\"Oh dear.\" he said, with rather considerable constraint.\n\nHe then climbed to his feet and turned to find you watching him from the other end of the room.\n\"Oh dear oh dear.\" he trembles, \"Look. Just tell me. Am I dead?\"\nYou gaze at the List.\n\n\"Ith your name Ernetht Buthet?\" you intone.\n\nThomas Brewer looks at you blankly. It's hard enough for a man to be on the verge of humanity's greatest scientific breakthrough and then to suddenly be confronted with the possibility that he might be dead, let alone to find that the Gatekeeper of the Afterlife has a speech impediment.\n\n\"I'm sorry, did you say 'Erneth Buffet'? Ummm...Do you mean Ernest Busset?\" Thomas brushed himself down. You nod irritably. You've had a lisp for as long as you can remember and it's not your fault. It certainly doesn't make your job any easier. \"No. No. I'm Thomas Brewer. Ernest Busset is...oh. Oh no! Oh no! Ernest is dead?\" Thomas exclaims, shocked. You nod again.\n\n\"Where ith he then?\" you ask, looking round the room in annoyance. Thomas grins and points at the charred heap of metal in the centre of the room.\n\n\"I think the question really should be 'when is he?' We built a time machine, he and I did. And as there's no sign of a corpse I'm guessing that it worked! It worked! Do you realise what this means?\" Thomas was jubilant, forgetting the situation for a moment.\n\nYou shrug. You personally suspect that it means that they won't be selling anything other than one-way tickets but you say nothing.\n\n\"Ha! He might have survived! You can't know for certain!\"\n\nYou sigh. You've had to recover your clients from some very strange places in the past, but never a different time. There has to be a way to solve this one.\n\nCellar (Manchester)\n\nThis is a dark and dank cellar underneath a house in Manchester. The tough, red brick did a good job of containing the blast from the exploded time machine. The remains of said time machine sit in the centre of the cellar, nothing more than a twisted pile of metal and wires. In one corner of the room is a stairwell, in the other a workbench and varied selection of tools and objects that look suspiciously mechanical.\n\nExits: Up\n\nYou can see Ernest Busset's shoe.\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic. Thomas Brewer stands here, looking around the cellar thoughtfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shoe", "response": "A single brown shoe. It's seen better days. Namely days when it hasn't been at the heart of a large explosion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "[take Ernest Busset's shoe]\nYou pick up Ernest Busset's shoe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Thomas about the time machine", "response": "\"It worked,\" Thomas smiles, manically \"It really worked! Just like he said it would! We will be famous...when he gets back that is. When I've rebuilt the machine...\" He looks worried, as if trying to figure out if this task is beyond him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tools", "response": "You've never been one for DIY (other than in the scythe department) so you don't have a clue what most of the tools here are even called, let alone what they do. The only things you have any confidence about are a large roll of masking tape and a small magnet. You decide that the magnet might come in useful and slip it into your robe. As you'll still exist when this building has rotted to ruins, all things - in a metaphorical way - belong to you. At least that's what you tell yourself whenever your rampant kleptomania overtakes you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tape", "response": "Normally you would, but you decide that stealing a magnet is bad enough. You leave the masking tape where it is. If you ever need it then you know where to find it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You move up.\n\nHallway (Manchester)\n\nYou've been in some impressive hallways in your time, but this isn't one of them. It's positively dull, and from someone who has done the same job day after day for millenia that's saying something. It's walls are coated with pink paint, which is in serious need of attention. The flooring is bare wooden boards. There is a telephone table next to the front door, on which is a - shock! - telephone.\n\nExits: North, South, West and Down", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the telephone", "response": "It's a cheap, black plastic telephone with little number buttons that you push.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You move north.\n\nBathroom (Manchester)\n\nYou have no need of a bathroom so you never feel comfortable about what goes on in one. This means that you never feel comfortable standing in one. The lino under your feet is worn and in need of repair and the tiled walls are covered with mildew and mould. The kindest thing that you could say about the mirror is that it isn't broken, and the sink only has one tap. As for the bath - well, it's a great advert for fitting a shower. And you daren't even look at the toilet...\n\nExits: South", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toilet", "response": "I said YOU DAREN'T EVEN LOOK AT THE TOILET!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "You look into the mirror. In this room, even your reflection looks dirty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nHallway (Manchester)\n\nYou've been in some impressive hallways in your time, but this isn't one of them. It's positively dull, and from someone who has done the same job day after day for millenia that's saying something. It's walls are coated with pink paint, which is in serious need of attention. The flooring is bare wooden boards. There is a telephone table next to the front door, on which is a - shock! - telephone.\n\nExits: North, South, West and Down", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nLiving Room (Manchester)\n\nThe living room is as grotty as the rest of the house. The wallpaper and carpets are clearly refugees from the era when flares were fashionable the first time round. The floor is covered in scientific papers and engineering sketches. Two sleeping bags lie, rolled out, in the far corner of the room. A window, with one pane boarded up, gazes out onto a Manchester high street. This is the kind of living room where you could imagine someone sitting and saying \"You call this living?\".\n\nExits: North", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the papers", "response": "You don't see anything that will help you.\n\nYou shuffle through the pages. Some of the papers and drawings make perfect sense to you (such as the angry red bill from the telephone company threatening to cut off service, or the sketched picture of a man with an arrow through his head) but most of them are gibberish. There are equations and diagrams that you can't even begin to understand. It takes you a few minutes but you eventually sort some of the more important looking ones to one side. They form a small pile of paperwork that seem to detail some of the most significant facts concerning time travel. You include with them several detailed drawings of the machine that Ernest and Thomas built. Having done this you file your collection of paperwork into one of the pockets in your robe. This stuff might help you get your scythe on Ernest's soul.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sleeping bags", "response": "Sleeping bags that belonged, you guess, to Thomas and Ernest. They don't look like they've been slept in much. They've obviously made a lot of sacrifices in trying to build the machine. You shake your head, wondering if this passion for knowledge was worth it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nHallway (Manchester)\n\nYou've been in some impressive hallways in your time, but this isn't one of them. It's positively dull, and from someone who has done the same job day after day for millenia that's saying something. It's walls are coated with pink paint, which is in serious need of attention. The flooring is bare wooden boards. There is a telephone table next to the front door, on which is a - shock! - telephone.\n\nExits: North, South, West and Down", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nKitchen (Manchester)\n\nIt's a filthy kitchen, and vastly underequipped for it's purpose.\nYour kitchen might be nothing special but at least you keep it clean, and you don't even prepare food in it. The people who use this kitchen are playing the odds. The worksurfaces are covered with dirt and bits of food. There are three rusty old garden chairs against one wall, a cooker and a cupboard against another.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "You open the cupboard. Inside is a tin of beans, some rice and a packet of After Eight mints. A varied diet, it seems.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mints", "response": "Compared to the other items in the cupboard, the still-sealed packet of After Eights is a luxury item. You would feel bad about taking them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the beans", "response": "A tin of economy beans. As tempting as it is, you resist the lure of the tin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nHallway (Manchester)\n\nYou've been in some impressive hallways in your time, but this isn't one of them. It's positively dull, and from someone who has done the same job day after day for millenia that's saying something. It's walls are coated with pink paint, which is in serious need of attention. The flooring is bare wooden boards. There is a telephone table next to the front door, on which is a - shock! - telephone.\n\nExits: North, South, West and Down", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You move down.\n\nCellar (Manchester)\n\nThis is a dark and dank cellar underneath a house in Manchester. The tough, red brick did a good job of containing the blast from the exploded time machine. The remains of said time machine sit in the centre of the cellar, nothing more than a twisted pile of metal and wires. In one corner of the room is a stairwell, in the other a workbench and varied selection of tools and objects that look suspiciously mechanical.\n\nExits: Up\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic. Thomas Brewer stands here, looking around the cellar thoughtfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the papers to Thomas", "response": "Give what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying the Golden Hourglass, The Grim Reaper's Scythe, The List, the dry cleaning ticket, Ernest Busset's shoe, a small magnet and the time machine plans.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Thomas about the time machine", "response": "\"It worked,\" Thomas smiles, manically \"It really worked! Just like he said it would! We will be famous...when he gets back that is. When I've rebuilt the machine...\" He looks worried, as if trying to figure out if this task is beyond him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Thomas about Ernest", "response": "\"He's my mentor and friend.\" Thomas shrugs, \"We've done something amazing here. I can't believe he's dead. I won't believe it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say nevada to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nStorage Cupboard (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are crammed, almost bent double, into a small storage cupboard. With your prefect night vision you can make out several shelves, crammed full of pots and bottles of various fluids. There seems to be a definite cleaning theme to this cupboard. Your foot clatters againt more tins and boxes. Horse shuffles and kicks you in the knee. You think you might have found a new frontrunner in the \"Most Uncomfortable I Have Ever Been\" stakes.\n\nExits: East\n\nYou can see a shovel blade.\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.\n\nPrivate Kline yawned. Guard duty was so unbelievably boring. He knew that he wouldn't have normally pulled this duty for six days in a row but recent events with the General's daughter had resulted in this sorry state of affairs. He didn't regret a thing, but...this was really boring. Nothing ever happened. He was guarding a single door in the most heavily protected military faculty in the United States.\n\nHe moved his rifle to the other shoulder and shrugged. Maybe he should play The Game again. His time on guard duty had been spent developing the rules to The Game. It helped pass the time. The Game involved him seeing how many times he could spin his rifle above his head in a minute. It couldn't be any old spin, however, as the rules made quite clear. The gun had to be held a certain distance above his head, at a certain angle. The spin had to be at a certain velocity. It was pretty complicated, which probably explained why - after five days - his personal best was only two. The rules were being reviewed yet again. Maybe version 1.6 of The Game would see some major changes. He didn't want a repeat of version 1.3, where he was very lucky not to have shot himself in the face.\n\nCRASH!\n\nPrivate Kline stopped in mid-thought. What was that?\n\nCRUNCH!\n\nIt sounded like it was coming from the storage cupboard just down the corridor.\n\n\"I jutht trod in paint or thomething!\" a muffled (but raised) voice sounded. It was definitely coming from the storage cupboard. \"Honethtly! You could land anywhere in the whole building and you chooth to land in a cupboard! Thtupid animal!\"\n\n\"Who's in there!\" shouted Kline, his rifle raised. The door opened and out stepped an incredibly tall and gaunt figure...\n\n..You turn and see the young soldier with his gun raised.\n\n\"Excuth me, but thouldn't you be pointing the other end at me?\" you offer, helpfully. You have no need to be afraid of firearms.\n\nPrivate Kline hurridly turns his rifle the right way round and looks at you, almost apologetically.\n\n\"Identify yourself!\" he barks.\n\n\"Me? I'm the Grim Reaper,\" you explain, checking The List, \"And you wouldn't happen to be Thplong5b would you?\"\n\n\"Huh? What?\" Private Kline tried to compose himself. He'd wanted some excitement, but this was a lot more confusing than he'd thought it would be.\n\n\"No. I gueth not. You don't look like a Thplong5b. I think I need to go through that door behind you.\" you look up from The List, certain that your Client is in the room that this soldier is guarding.\n\n\"The door behind me?\" Kline's resolve hardens, \"No. No I think not. I've got one job in this place - guard this door. I don't care who you are. You are not getting through.\"\n\nYou sigh, but then look into Kline's face and realise that you've never come across a man with such single-minded determination before. Neither have you ever met someone with such total confidence that whatever he happens to face he can solve it with his gun. Your own conviction wavers. Most people, when faced with the Grim Reaper, simply give up. This is new territory for you.\n\nAs a creature formed and given shape by belief you begin to wonder if Kline's faith in his gun is so great that it might actually cause you a problem were you to try and force your way past him. You're not certain, but neither are you prepared to take the risk. You didn't get this far by taking risks. This really is very annoying, but you're going to have to find a way past Private Kline.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West\n\nPrivate Kline stands in front of the double doors, blocking your way. He looks determined to keep you out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nStorage Cupboard (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are crammed, almost bent double, into a small storage cupboard. With your prefect night vision you can make out several shelves, crammed full of pots and bottles of various fluids. There seems to be a definite cleaning theme to this cupboard. Your foot clatters againt more tins and boxes. Horse shuffles and kicks you in the knee. You think you might have found a new frontrunner in the \"Most Uncomfortable I Have Ever Been\" stakes.\n\nExits: East\n\nYou can see a shovel blade.\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the blade", "response": "You pick up the shovel blade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "[examine a shovel blade]\n\nThis is the blade from a shovel. There's a clean break where the handle has been snapped or sawn off, but the blade is dented as though it's seen a fair amount of service. It's unusable in this state.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bottles", "response": "You read the labels of some of the objects in the cupboard. Cleaning fluids, powders, plastic bags and all kinds of things to make sure that this base is kept very, very clean. It's almost as if the most terrible thing that the US Military could imagine was for the base to be attacked and the invaders to say \"Look at this place, will you. It's disgusting!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You move east.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West\n\nPrivate Kline stands in front of the double doors, blocking your way. He looks determined to keep you out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Kline about the doors", "response": "Use the format \"ask [character] about [subject]\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You try the door but it refuses to open. It's locked and you can't see a lock or any obvious way of unlocking it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nBarracks (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are in a barracks. The room, despite being a place where people are expected to relax and sleep, is as bleak and clinical as the rest of the compound. At least an effort has been made and one wall is covered with posters. Rows and rows of bunk beds fill the room, a few of which are being used by off-duty and snoozing soliders. They seem to be sleeping very well, despite the beeping noise coming from an air duct in the corner of the room.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the duct", "response": "The air duct is covered by a thick mesh which could be easily removed by the right tool. It would be a tight squeeze but you could fit inside it if you had to. A beeping noise emanates from the duct.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the mesh", "response": "You lack the right tool to open the air duct.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "There is definitely a beeping coming from the air ducts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the posters", "response": "There are a variety of posters, only one of which catches your attention (it would be more, but you lack some of the same basic urges as the common military man). It's a large poster of the Golden Gate Bridge, with a comment written beneath it.\n\nStuck in a rut? Don't know what your next step should be? Simply just bored?\n\nSome things will become a lot clearer...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nSecurity Room (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are standing in a darkened room with one wall totally given over to monitors, computers and various dials, switches and buttons. This seems to be some kind of surveillance room. There is also a noticeboard on another wall with pieces of paper stuck to it, a variety of obviously important comments circled and underlined in red pen. To the east of the room is a heavy door marked Armory.\n\nExits: South and East\n\nYou can see the cigarette lighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the noticeboard", "response": "A very plain and unimpressive noticeboard. Not like the elephant one in your kitchen. That's classy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take lighter", "response": "You pick up the cigarette lighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the postcard", "response": "Take what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the monitors", "response": "The displays flicker between a selection of images from security cameras set up over the site. Big Brother is watching you indeed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine buttons", "response": "An assortment of things to turn, flick and press. You don't know what any of them do, but they look tempting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "You begin to fiddle with the various controls on the panel. Nothing particularly interesting happens until you press one button and a message flickers on one of the computer screens briefly - LABORATORY DOOR UNLOCKED", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The door is locked by a keypad, swipe card, fingerprint scanner and deadbolt. You try it anyway. Nope. It's definitely locked. You'll need a special key to get in here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Laboratory (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are standing in a large spotless room. The first thing you notice is a huge, strange, complex machine in the middle of the room. You've never seen anything like it before. It's surrounded by a work surface, on which are scattered various papers and notes. One wall is lined with computer terminals. There are also shelves, loaded with bottles and tools and around the room seem to be one or two unfinished experiments.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine experiments", "response": "There are a couple of basic looking experiments that, according to the attached notes, seem to be releated to the mechanics of time travel. Further paperwork seems to identify one other experiment that is currently (and thankfully) only at the theoretical stage. It's seems to be about finding out what would happen if you stapled a piece of toast (butter side up) to the back of a cat and then threw it out of a window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at machine", "response": "You look at it. It seems to be all angles and gleaming metal surfaces in the shape of a sphere. It looks like an orange that's been passed through a pencil sharpener. You've never seen anything like it before, but you instinctively recognise it as some kind of machine for travelling through time. You shrug. It doesn't surprise you that an eternal being would recognise that. Some wag has hung a sign over the machine that says Out of Order. There is some kind of entrance in the side. Maybe you could tell more about it from the inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hourglass", "response": "The grains of sand tell you that you have ten hours left to complete your contract.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the Time Machine", "response": "You awkwardly clamber inside the time machine.\n\nInside Time Machine (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nThe time machine is clearly meant for someone a lot shorter than you. You feel like a pen in a matchbox. From the outside the machine looked complicated, but from the inside the task of understanding what's going on is positively herculean. You can see a large number of lights and dials, none of which you can understand. It doesn't help that any instructions written in the machine are in some kind of alien dialect. The things that you think might be significant are a digital readout which says '2007', the buttons next to this readout, an open panel revealing a mix of wires and a pile of paper which is chained to the inside of the machine, clearly to avoid theft.\n\nExits: Exit", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paper", "response": "There are two sets of documents here. The first is entirely in an alien language and you cannot read it, but it appears to be some kind of set of instruction manual for using the time machine. You can guess at this because the second set of papers appears to be an unfinished English translation of the alien manual. They've been chained to the machine to stop people walking off with them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read paper", "response": "You begin reading the translation...\n\nCONGRATULATIONS ON PURCHASING THE CHRONOMATIC 3500!\n\nWe are confident that you will not regret your purchase. Please take the time to read this instruction manual and familiarise yourself with all of the features offered by this new model of an old favourite.\n\nNEW FEATURES INCLUDE...\n\n- FREE 'and space' upgrade. That's right! Your Chronomatic 3500 is able to move not just through time, but through time AND space!\n\n- Failsafe Homing Feature. Your Chronomatic will automatically return you to your starting destination when you have finished your business in other time zones\n\n- New Leather Interior. Time Travel in comfort!\n\n- 3 Year Warranty.\n\n(Please note - warranty immediately becomes invalid in the following cases.\n\n- If the owner tries to use an expired warranty machine to travel back in time to a year when the warranty is valid.\n\n- If the owner allows this technology to fall into the hands of humanity.)\n\nQUICKSTART:\n\nFor those of you who just want to get on with the fun business of time travel you can simply begin your experience with the following simple combination of instructions...\n\nStep 1) If appropriate select the time era you wish to visit using the RED BUTTON.\n\nStep 2) Simply enter the year that you wish to visit (no need to use any combination of commands such as 'type year' or 'enter year into machine' - simply type the year that you wish to visit!)\n\n...and that's it! The machine will do the rest!\n\nWe hope that you have a GREAT time and many happy years with the Chronomatic 3500. Remember - Have the time of your life!\n\n(and we really mean it about not letting the humans get their hands on this technology. Seriously.)\n\nYou also notice that someone has scrawled '5500 AD' at the bottom of the translation. You put the manual down. The original has many, many more pages but clearly the translators haven't got around to working on that yet. Still, it seems that you have enough to actually use the machine - if you can get it working.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5500", "response": "Nothing happens. The time machine isn't working.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the red button", "response": "Nothing happens. The machine is not working properly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wires", "response": "You don't have a clue what all the inner workings of the time machine are. The fact that there are at least twelve different colours of wire is enough to make you break out into a cold sweat. Oh, all right, make you think about breaking out into a cold sweat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying the Golden Hourglass, The Grim Reaper's Scythe, The List, the dry cleaning ticket, Ernest Busset's shoe, a small magnet, the time machine plans, a shovel blade and the cigarette lighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You exit the Time Machine", "response": "You manage, with some difficulty, to extract yourself from the time machine.\n\nLaboratory (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are standing in a large spotless room. The first thing you notice is a huge, strange, complex machine in the middle of the room. You've never seen anything like it before. It's surrounded by a work surface, on which are scattered various papers and notes. One wall is lined with computer terminals. There are also shelves, loaded with bottles and tools and around the room seem to be one or two unfinished experiments.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tools", "response": "A variety of scientific instruments and tools are on the shelves.\nSome of them have wires coming out of them and everything. You haven't a clue what purposes they would serve.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bottles", "response": "Chemical compounds and stuff like that. Your knowledge of science is limited enough for you to lose interest quickly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West\n\nPrivate Kline stands in front of the double doors, blocking your way. He looks determined to keep you out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Kline", "response": "Private Kline is a young Hispanic man with a crew cut, dressed in uniform and carrying an M-16 assault rifle. He has a look of steely-eyed determination on his face, as though he's willing to give up everything to make up for some past indiscretion. This would be admirable were it not directed against you. That just makes it really annoying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Kline", "response": "No-one pays any attention to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Private Kline blocks your approach.\n\n\"I'm sorry but you may not pass.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "Your considerable detective skills suggest to you that things are stored behind this door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You reap Kline", "response": "No. You only usher the already dead into the next world. You are forbidden to make new Clients. Besides, Kline is only doing his duty and you can understand that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nStorage Cupboard (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are crammed, almost bent double, into a small storage cupboard. With your prefect night vision you can make out several shelves, crammed full of pots and bottles of various fluids. There seems to be a definite cleaning theme to this cupboard. Your foot clatters againt more tins and boxes. Horse shuffles and kicks you in the knee. You think you might have found a new frontrunner in the \"Most Uncomfortable I Have Ever Been\" stakes.\n\nExits: East\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say wajir to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nVillage (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in the middle of a cluster of buildings denoting this to be a settlement of some kind. The ground under your feet is dry and dusty. Children run through the streets, shouting and laughing. Men go about their business. Women stand and gossip, occasionally breaking into laughter. No-one pays you much attention. They're all having too much fun to pay any mind to death at the moment. A path winds east out of the village. You can see Jimiyu's hut to the north, and to the west the open doorway of another hut invites you in.\n\nExits: North, East and West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.\n\nJimiyu Wangai sat at the table, a thoughtful look on his face. He was dead. He wasn't surprised by this - in fact he'd been fairly certain it was going to happen anytime soon. He enjoyed being proved right. Well, he'd lived a long and full life but had no intention of giving it up quite yet. His youngest granddaughter was getting married in two weeks and he had been looking forward to that for ages. So he'd decided that he wasn't going to go, and had made arrangements accordingly. It had been surprisingly easy to work out. He'd found the answer in a book in a library in Nairobi. He'd spent the past few weeks at this table, waiting. Now he was nearly there. He looked at the entrance to his hut...\n\n...and as if right on cue, you stride in.\n\n\"Jimiyu Wangai?\" you ask\n\nJimiyu laughs. \"Do you really need to ask? Has anyone ever said, 'No. That's someone else?'\"\n\nYou nod. \"They do. It never workth.\"\n\n\"I suppose not.\" Jimiyu laughs again. You're torn between two emotions - gratitude that he has yet to point out that you have a lisp, and confusion. Most people aren't really that happy to see you. You sigh. Time to see what he's got up his sleeve.\n\n\"Your time ith up, Jimiyu.\"\n\n\"What's the rush? Haven't we time for a quick game first...\" Jimiyu's grin is really beginning to get on your nerves. He gestures at the table in front of him. You notice, for the first time, that he is sitting in front of a chess set.\n\n\"Oh...bother,\" you mutter.\n\nIt's the rules. If they challenge you, you have to play. If they win then you've got to leave them alone. If you win they have to come quietly. It's the rules. The universe likes rules. The problem is that you're not actually much good at chess. It's never really been a problem before. Most people don't even think of it, let alone being foresighted enough to make sure that they die sitting at a chess set. You possess a little more foresight however, and have a contingency plan. You committed to memory a failsafe way of winning a chess match, an unbeatable strategy, a foolproof way to victory. With just one potential flaw...\n\n\"Bagthy being white then,\" you offer, trying not to sound too nervous.\n\n\"Ha! I'm sitting at the white pieces. I'm going first. You can play as the black pieces.\"\n\n\"Oh...bother.\" you mutter again. Your strategy all hinged on going first. You knew that you should have asked Samuel Reshevsky more questions when you met him.\n\n\"Come on. I haven't got all day...oh wait. I have.\" Jimiyu laughs again \"I have two weeks actually! My granddaughter is due to get married and I'm not missing it for anything - not even death.\"\n\nYou don't have two weeks. You have until the end of the day. If you lose, or if you don't play then it's all over. You'll have failed. And you can't have that.\n\nHut (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nIt's a fairly bare hut, lived in by someone who has learnt the hard lesson that true happiness is not found in possessions. The bare, dusty floor is going to leave its mark under your toenails for days. Jimiyu Wangai sits on a rickety wicker chair, facing a squat, uncomfortable-looking stool. Between the two seats is a frail table, on which sits a chess board.\n\nExits: South\n\nJimiyu Wangai is grinning at you from his chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Jimiyu", "response": "Jimiyu is an elderly, white-haired Kenyan man whose weather-beaten face tells a story. Probably one about how some young fellow gets tricked out of everything he owns by a wise, elderly man. The teeth that aren't missing are crooked and yellow. You can tell this because he's grinning at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine stool", "response": "You look suspiciously at the uneven, wooden stool that Jiniyu intends you to sit on. It looks like a sure way to get cramp in your back muscles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nVillage (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in the middle of a cluster of buildings denoting this to be a settlement of some kind. The ground under your feet is dry and dusty. Children run through the streets, shouting and laughing. Men go about their business. Women stand and gossip, occasionally breaking into laughter. No-one pays you much attention. They're all having too much fun to pay any mind to death at the moment. A path winds east out of the village. You can see Jimiyu's hut to the north, and to the west the open doorway of another hut invites you in.\n\nExits: North, East and West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nLarge Hut (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in a large hut which seems to double as a place of worship. There are mats on the floor, presumably for sitting on and at the end of the hut is a lectern. A wooden cross is attached to one of the walls.\n\nExits: East\n\nAbuya Wangai is standing here, looking thoughtful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Abuya", "response": "Abuya is a young women in, you would guess, her late teens or young twenties. She wouldn't catch your attention if it weren't for the sparkling eyes and cheeky grin that identifies her as Jimiyu's granddaughter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Abuya about the wedding", "response": "Abuya looks at you, perhaps wondering why such a strange-looking man would show an interest in her wedding.\n\n\"I would marry this very hour if only I could arrange two things. I would want a beautiful wedding dress like the ones that I have seen in the magazines. And I would want a gift for my future husband. He doesn't like my cooking so perhaps I could give him something so that he wouldn't have to eat it...\"\n\nShe has a twinkle in her eye, suggesting that perhaps she knows that you have a vested interest in this wedding...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lectern", "response": "It's a fragile wooden stand for the preacher to put his sermon notes on. You wobble it back and forth, wondering if even the extra weight of paper would be enough to topple it over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cross", "response": "A large, lovingly crafted wooden cross. It's nailed to the wall opposite the doorway. It's been designed and placed to draw your attention as soon as you enter the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nVillage (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in the middle of a cluster of buildings denoting this to be a settlement of some kind. The ground under your feet is dry and dusty. Children run through the streets, shouting and laughing. Men go about their business. Women stand and gossip, occasionally breaking into laughter. No-one pays you much attention. They're all having too much fun to pay any mind to death at the moment. A path winds east out of the village. You can see Jimiyu's hut to the north, and to the west the open doorway of another hut invites you in.\n\nExits: North, East and West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You move east.\n\nBy a Lake (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in a grassy clearing at the end of a winding path that has climbed slowly out of the village. Right in front of you is a large lake of dirty water.\n\nExits: West\n\nYou can see a sturdy branch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the branch", "response": "The branch has clearly been snapped from a tree. It's a good branch, long and sturdy. A prince amongst tree flotsam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the branch", "response": "You pick up the sturdy branch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Lake", "response": "It's water. You've seen plenty of it before. Usually when you meet someone who really shouldn't have answered \"Yes\" to the question \"Fancy a swim?\" This is not the cleanest water that you've seen but it's far from the dirtiest either.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "The Grim Reaper? Go swimming? That's a good one!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in Lake", "response": "It's water. You've seen plenty of it before. Usually when you meet someone who really shouldn't have answered \"Yes\" to the question \"Fancy a swim?\" This is not the cleanest water that you've seen but it's far from the dirtiest either.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nVillage (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in the middle of a cluster of buildings denoting this to be a settlement of some kind. The ground under your feet is dry and dusty. Children run through the streets, shouting and laughing. Men go about their business. Women stand and gossip, occasionally breaking into laughter. No-one pays you much attention. They're all having too much fun to pay any mind to death at the moment. A path winds east out of the village. You can see Jimiyu's hut to the north, and to the west the open doorway of another hut invites you in.\n\nExits: North, East and West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "You're not going to sit on the ground. It's hard enough keeping these robes clean as it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(Standing up first)\nYou move east.\n\nVillage (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in the middle of a cluster of buildings denoting this to be a settlement of some kind. The ground under your feet is dry and dusty. Children run through the streets, shouting and laughing. Men go about their business. Women stand and gossip, occasionally breaking into laughter. No-one pays you much attention. They're all having too much fun to pay any mind to death at the moment. A path winds east out of the village. You can see Jimiyu's hut to the north, and to the west the open doorway of another hut invites you in.\n\nExits: North, East and West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nHut (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nIt's a fairly bare hut, lived in by someone who has learnt the hard lesson that true happiness is not found in possessions. The bare, dusty floor is going to leave its mark under your toenails for days. Jimiyu Wangai sits on a rickety wicker chair, facing a squat, uncomfortable-looking stool. Between the two seats is a frail table, on which sits a chess board.\n\nExits: South\n\nJimiyu Wangai is grinning at you from his chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Jimiyu about the chess", "response": "\"Do you want me to tell you the rules?\" laughs Jimiyu.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "(Standing up first)\nYou move south.\n\nVillage (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in the middle of a cluster of buildings denoting this to be a settlement of some kind. The ground under your feet is dry and dusty. Children run through the streets, shouting and laughing. Men go about their business. Women stand and gossip, occasionally breaking into laughter. No-one pays you much attention. They're all having too much fun to pay any mind to death at the moment. A path winds east out of the village. You can see Jimiyu's hut to the north, and to the west the open doorway of another hut invites you in.\n\nExits: North, East and West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Manchester to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nCellar (Manchester)\n\nThis is a dark and dank cellar underneath a house in Manchester. The tough, red brick did a good job of containing the blast from the exploded time machine. The remains of said time machine sit in the centre of the cellar, nothing more than a twisted pile of metal and wires. In one corner of the room is a stairwell, in the other a workbench and varied selection of tools and objects that look suspiciously mechanical.\n\nExits: Up\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic. Thomas Brewer stands here, looking around the cellar thoughtfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the shovel", "response": "You have a crazy idea. They're often the best kind. Reaching into your robe you pull out the shovel blade and the sturdy branch.\nPlacing the items on the workbench you grab the masking tape and begin work.\n\nIn a few minutes you have firmly attached the shovel blade to the branch with masking tape. You examine your work and grunt in approval. Not a bad job if you do say so yourself. Of course, it looks like an ancient torture device but at least it should work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say himalayas to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nMountain Pass (Himilayas)\n\nYou are standing on a thin path that is winding through the snowy, Himilayan mountain range. The view is lovely, but it isn't half chilly here. Your feet are getting cold and the wind is whipping right up your robe. Right in front of you is a huge snowdrift, under which is buried the body of one of your clients - Lord Nigel McWorthington.\n\nExits: No Exits\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying the Golden Hourglass, The Grim Reaper's Scythe, The List, the dry cleaning ticket, Ernest Busset's shoe, a small magnet, the time machine plans, the shovel and the cigarette lighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You roll up your sleeves and grab your shovel.\n\n\"Don't thay anything,\" you speak sternly to Horse, who you suspect is laughing at you.\n\nAfter half an hour of hard work you've managed to pile away most of the snow and revealed the body of Lord Nigel McWorthington. As an administration error, Nigel is dead but needs to be reaped to ensure that the passage of his soul continues.\n\nMountain Pass (Himilayas)\n\nYou are standing on a thin path that is winding through the snowy, Himilayan mountain range. The view is lovely, but it isn't half chilly here. Your feet are getting cold and the wind is whipping right up your robe. In front of you is a snowdrift, most of which has been dug away to reveal a body.\n\nExits: No Exits\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic. Lord Nigel McWorthington is here, lying on the rocky ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Reap soul", "response": "You swing your scythe in a downward arc, slicing through Lord Nigel McWorthington. There is a tinkling noise in the background and the departed soul of Lord McWorthington rises from his body. He stands and looks down at his feet.\n\n\"Oh. So you killed me then?\" he asks.\n\n\"Actually, the thnow killed you,\" you object, but the shade of Nigel vanishes. It really annoys you when people blame you for their death. Maybe in this case Lord McWorthington had a point, but still. You're just doing your job. And now you're one soul closer to finishing for the day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read List", "response": "Lord Nigel McWorthington - Himilayas, Nepal\n\nErnest Busset - Manchester, England\n\nJimiyu Wangai - Wajir, Kenya\n\nAgathe Laurent - Paris, France\n\nSplong5b - Nevada, USA", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the san francisco to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nIn front of you is a busy high street, swarming with citizens on a shopping spree. Shops line the street on both sides, and were you much of a consumer then you would be in paradise. You are, however, not much of a consumer, so the only shop that really attracts your attention is on the south side of the street and named Drop and Give Me Fifty Dress Ups. Perhaps it's the Grim Reaper costume in the window.\n\nExits: East and South\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.\n\nHorse touches down on a grubby San Francisco sidewalk, crowded with people. That would be the sort of thing that usually draws attention to itself but seeing as no-one particularly wants to be the first person to say \"Did you just see a flying horse?\" it seems to pass by unnoticed.\n\nAs you clamber down from Horse you look from side to side, wary of all the people milling about. No-one seems to be paying any attention to you and once again you wonder how it's possible for humanity to be so blatant about ignoring the issues of cosmic significance right on their doorstep. Still, this is a commercial centre and that tends to have a lot to do with it.\n\nYou look at the various shops around you. There must be some here that can help you with your task...\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nIn front of you is a busy high street, swarming with citizens on a shopping spree. Shops line the street on both sides, and were you much of a consumer then you would be in paradise. You are, however, not much of a consumer, so the only shop that really attracts your attention is on the south side of the street and named Drop and Give Me Fifty Dress Ups. Perhaps it's the Grim Reaper costume in the window.\n\nExits: East and South\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nCostume Shop (San Francisco)\n\nYou are standing in a costume shop, knee deep in discarded masks, costumes and various disguise related items. The walls are mostly bare, except for a few items still hanging up on hooks and racks that scatter the store. This shop is clearly undergoing some kind of stock take, either that or the owner has strangely decided that the floor is the best place to showcase his wares.\n\nExits: North\n\nThe owner of the shop is here, rummaging through various piles of clothing and checking them against a list.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the costumes", "response": "There are only a few scattered costumes hanging from the walls and in the shop window. Other than the Grim Reaper costume the only one that catches your attention appears to be a simple brown courdroy suit combination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at suit", "response": "A plaque by the suit informs you that it's a genuine \"Mad Professor Outfit\". You notice that one of the shoes is missing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the owner about the suit", "response": "The man looks up from his stock taking and glances at a brown suit in the wall. A look of annoyance crosses his face.\n\n\"The last person to borrow that costume returned it with one shoe missing! Can you believe the nerve of some people.\"\n\nYou empathise with his anger. You often feel like your whole life is spent chasing up shoes that someone else has lost.\n\n\"I can't rent out the costume like that,\" the man continues \"It was highly popular as well. If only I could find a shoe that matched the feel of the costume.\"\n\nHe sighs and returns to his list.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the shoe", "response": "Without saying a word you pull out the shoe that you found in Manchester and offer it to the shop owner. He looks up from his list and pauses. Slowly he reaches out and takes the shoe from you.\n\n\"Why,\" he peers at the shoe over the top of his glasses \"this shoe is remarkable! \"\n\nYou smile and nod. Your smile freezes awkwardly as you watch the owner smell the shoe.\n\n\"This is incredible,\" a huge grin bursts on to his features \"this even smells like I'd expect a mad professor's shoe to smell! How did you do it?\"\n\nBefore you can answer (which is good because you weren't sure how to answer anyway) the shop owner wades through piles of costume items and places the shoe very carefully by the brown suit hanging on the wall.\n\n\"Yes, yes. This completes the costume once again!\" he exclaims, happily, \"How can I repay you? I have a couple of surplus items that I would be very happy to give you in exchange for the shoe.\"\n\n\"Itemth?\" you ask, interested despite yourself.\n\n\"Why yes. I could let you have either...hmmm...here, this alien mask or...or...aha...here we are. Yes, this lovely white wedding gown. Would you like the mask or the gown?\" the man asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the gown", "response": "The costume shop owner smiles and hands you a neatly folded wedding dress.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dress", "response": "It's a beautiful white wedding dress. There's lace and velvet and all kinds of things. It seems an unlikely thing to find in a costume shop, but in your experience unlikely things often turn up in the unlikeliest of places.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hourglass", "response": "The grains of sand tell you that you have eight hours left to complete your contract.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nIn front of you is a busy high street, swarming with citizens on a shopping spree. Shops line the street on both sides, and were you much of a consumer then you would be in paradise. You are, however, not much of a consumer, so the only shop that really attracts your attention is on the south side of the street and named Drop and Give Me Fifty Dress Ups. Perhaps it's the Grim Reaper costume in the window.\n\nExits: East and South\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say kenya to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nVillage (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in the middle of a cluster of buildings denoting this to be a settlement of some kind. The ground under your feet is dry and dusty. Children run through the streets, shouting and laughing. Men go about their business. Women stand and gossip, occasionally breaking into laughter. No-one pays you much attention. They're all having too much fun to pay any mind to death at the moment. A path winds east out of the village. You can see Jimiyu's hut to the north, and to the west the open doorway of another hut invites you in.\n\nExits: North, East and West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the gown to Abuya", "response": "Abuya's eyes light up as you pass the wedding dress to her.\n\n\"This is perfect! Just what I've always wanted! Thank you!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the san francisco to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nIn front of you is a busy high street, swarming with citizens on a shopping spree. Shops line the street on both sides, and were you much of a consumer then you would be in paradise. You are, however, not much of a consumer, so the only shop that really attracts your attention is on the south side of the street and named Drop and Give Me Fifty Dress Ups. Perhaps it's the Grim Reaper costume in the window.\n\nExits: East and South\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nThe street continues along, leading the weak-willed mortals to even more ways to lose their money. Again, there is little here that captures your interest. People swarm around you, the same oblivious looks on their faces. To the north, almost swallowed up between huge department stores, is a tiny hardware store called I Came, I Sawed, I Conquered. The street veers sharply to the east and jutting out onto the pavement is a book shop called Reader's Digestion. You are also well aware of Happy Go Lucky Dry Clean to the south, as you've recently started using their services.\n\nExits: East, West, South and North", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You move south.\n\nDry Cleaners (San Francisco)\n\nYou are standing in a very dirty looking dry cleaning shop, which is somewhat ironic. The wallpaper is faded and the carpet badly worn. Around the walls are various photos of famous people who have, allegedly, had clothes dry-cleaned here in the past. There is a counter at the wall furthest from the door.\n\nExits: North\n\nAn elderly Chinese lady gives you a toothless grin and nods at you from behind the counter. An attractive woman is reclining against the counter, with a bored look in her eyes. She is clearly a customer, waiting for an item.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the ticket", "response": "Give the dry cleaning ticket to who?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the ticket to lady", "response": "You hand over the dry cleaning ticket without a word. The elderly lady squints at the ticket and shouts into the dark recesses of a back room \"Dress for Mr Reaper!\"\n\n\"It'th not a dreth!\" you hiss loudly, conscious of the other customer's amused glance in your direction, \"It'th a robe!\"\n\nThe elderly lady looks at you, nods and grins, as though you had just paid her a compliment. This is usually how this particular exchange goes.\n\nAfter about a minute of awkward waiting a hand appears from the doorway of darkness clutching a large plastic dry cleaning bag. The elderly lady takes the bag, squints at the attached ticket and finally passes the bag over the to the female customer. She takes the dry cleaning, turns on her heels and marches out of the shop into the crowd.\n\nA further minute passes before the hand appears again, this time clutching a smaller dry cleaning bag, which the lady takes and offers to you. It's with grim inevitability that you receive the bag. You know how this goes. The universe is once again having a laugh with you, it's own personal whipping boy. You sigh as, sure enough, you look at the attached ticket and see that you have the dry cleaning that belongs to a Ms. Victoria Salmon - probably the customer who had just left.\n\n\"You've given me the wrong item,\" you thunder at the lady behind the counter. She grins and nods.\n\n\"That lady hath my black robe. Thith ith herth!\" You wave the plastic bag in anger. The lady grins and nods.\n\n\"I...I...I thall thmite you! Thmite you mightily!\" you holler in frustration. Grins and nods.\n\nThis is going nowhere. With another sigh you open the bag to see what items Victoria Salmon had been expecting to pick up. To your surprise there is a full U.S. military uniform in the bag. You remove it from the dry cleaning sack and give it the once over. It looks very clean. Boy, is Ms. Salmon going to be angry when she opens her bag and finds your black robe instead of her uniform. You look meaningfully at the elderly lady behind the counter who surely now must see the mix up. She just grins. And nods.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the uniform", "response": "The uniform belonging to a female Captain in the United States Armed Forces. A feeling of dread descends over you as you realise that, at some point today, you're probably going to have to wear it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nThe street continues along, leading the weak-willed mortals to even more ways to lose their money. Again, there is little here that captures your interest. People swarm around you, the same oblivious looks on their faces. To the north, almost swallowed up between huge department stores, is a tiny hardware store called I Came, I Sawed, I Conquered. The street veers sharply to the east and jutting out onto the pavement is a book shop called Reader's Digestion. You are also well aware of Happy Go Lucky Dry Clean to the south, as you've recently started using their services.\n\nExits: East, West, South and North", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You move east.\n\nBook Shop (San Francisco)\n\nYou can tell from the books gathered around you that the book shop obviously specialises in second-hand goods. It follows the basic laws of second-hand bookshops in that shelves and shelves of books tower over you, hemming you in and creating the impression that you are actually standing at the entrance to a maze. You peer around but see no sign of anything or anyone except dark corners and bookcases. You dare not try and navigate this shop for fear of getting lost forever. You'll have to be content with examining the books that you can see.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "You can see countless old books scattered around the shelves. Some of them, by their condition, seem to be just hanging in there as far as this life is concerned. Others are in better condition, but there's certainly nothing that you could class as new - or even nearly new. The books are also dusty, suggesting that no-one has looked at them for a long time, except for two. One is a thick encyclopedia, sitting on one shelf. By the look of it it's been well-thumbed pretty recently. The other book is a thin paperback called The Ombudsman Guide to Chess Mastery (Sponsored by George W. Bush).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the encyclopedia", "response": "You reach out and pull the encylopedia from the shelf. Turning to a random page you read...\n\nIn 2004 archaeologists found a strange set of human footprints outside a cave in Follina, northern Italy. The footprints date back about 12,000 years. What makes it strange is that the footprints seemed to belong to a person who was wearing socks and only one shoe! The prints led to a cave, the entrance blocked by a rockfall. The archaeologists have yet to obtain permission to open the cave.\nImagine what you could find in there, eh? In the cave in Follina.\n\nHmmm. Interesting. You return the book to the shelf. You don't want to take it with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Guide", "response": "You pick up the chess guide and flick through the pages. It only takes about five minutes to read the entire pamphlet but after having done so you feel that you've got a much better grasp of the game of chess. You feel confident about your ability to play the game and win, even as black...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nThe street continues along, leading the weak-willed mortals to even more ways to lose their money. Again, there is little here that captures your interest. People swarm around you, the same oblivious looks on their faces. To the north, almost swallowed up between huge department stores, is a tiny hardware store called I Came, I Sawed, I Conquered. The street veers sharply to the east and jutting out onto the pavement is a book shop called Reader's Digestion. You are also well aware of Happy Go Lucky Dry Clean to the south, as you've recently started using their services.\n\nExits: East, West, South and North", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nHardware Store (San Francisco)\n\nYou enter the hardware shop, your feet thudding against the cold tiled floor. The store is divided into different sections, each section containing a display of appropriate tools. You feel lost. In the middle of the store is a large drum which appears to be full of thousands of the tiny polystyrene chips that breed in appliance boxes. Written on the drum in large red letters is \"Lucky Dip. Ask a staff member for details\". At the far end of the store is a counter.\n\nExits: South\n\nStanding behind the counter is a fat bearded man wearing overalls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Man about the lucky Dip", "response": "The hardware store owner explains that all customers are allowed one free turn at the lucky dip. He invites you to go ahead and have a go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the drum", "response": "A large, old oil drum that has been roped into service as a makeshift lucky dip. It seems to be a bit rusty and might contain the odd sharp edge inside. It certainly seems like a proper lucky dip, as in \"You put your hand in that? My goodness, you were lucky not to get tetanus!\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take from the drum", "response": "Take what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the drum", "response": "You wander over to the drum and roll-up your sleeve, trying not to look too excited about the prospect. After a second composing yourself you reach into the drum and begin feeling around.\n\n\"Hmmmmm,\" you mutter. It's at times like this that your unusually long arms come into their own. After all, everyone knows the universal law of the lucky dip. The best prizes are at the bottom.\n\nAfter about thirty seconds of scraping around your fingertips reach the bottom of the drum and you begin sweeping left and right. You glance over at the counter to see the store owner looking at you as though you were some kind of lunatic. Ignoring him you turn your attention back to the task at hand, and are rewarded by coming across a reasonably sized wrapped parcel. After a second's reflection on whether or not to continue searching you decide to take what you've found and you haul the package out of the drum, sending polystyrene chips all over the floor. The store owner tuts loudly.\n\n\"Thory,\" you apologise before examining your prize. With a thrill of anticipation you tear the paper off the parcel to reveal...a blunt saw.\n\n\"Ith thith it?\" you turn to the man behind the counter. \"Thith thaw ith blunt,\" you exclaim, wondering if there was a way of making that statement without using so many 's'es.\n\n\"That's why it's called a lucky dip, sir,\" the man shrugs. \"Luck as in 'bad'.\"\n\nYes. Of course. For you there is no other type of luck. You sigh as you put the blunt saw away in your robe. Maybe it will come in use somewhere down the line.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nThe street continues along, leading the weak-willed mortals to even more ways to lose their money. Again, there is little here that captures your interest. People swarm around you, the same oblivious looks on their faces. To the north, almost swallowed up between huge department stores, is a tiny hardware store called I Came, I Sawed, I Conquered. The street veers sharply to the east and jutting out onto the pavement is a book shop called Reader's Digestion. You are also well aware of Happy Go Lucky Dry Clean to the south, as you've recently started using their services.\n\nExits: East, West, South and North", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nIn front of you is a busy high street, swarming with citizens on a shopping spree. Shops line the street on both sides, and were you much of a consumer then you would be in paradise. You are, however, not much of a consumer, so the only shop that really attracts your attention is on the south side of the street and named Drop and Give Me Fifty Dress Ups. Perhaps it's the Grim Reaper costume in the window.\n\nExits: East and South\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say nevada to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nStorage Cupboard (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are crammed, almost bent double, into a small storage cupboard. With your prefect night vision you can make out several shelves, crammed full of pots and bottles of various fluids. There seems to be a definite cleaning theme to this cupboard. Your foot clatters againt more tins and boxes. Horse shuffles and kicks you in the knee. You think you might have found a new frontrunner in the \"Most Uncomfortable I Have Ever Been\" stakes.\n\nExits: East\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the uniform", "response": "You take a look at the uniform. You come to the conclusion that it's just not enough by itself. If you want to use it as a disguise you'll need something form of identification to go with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You move east.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West\n\nPrivate Kline stands in front of the double doors, blocking your way. He looks determined to keep you out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nBarracks (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are in a barracks. The room, despite being a place where people are expected to relax and sleep, is as bleak and clinical as the rest of the compound. At least an effort has been made and one wall is covered with posters. Rows and rows of bunk beds fill the room, a few of which are being used by off-duty and snoozing soliders. They seem to be sleeping very well, despite the beeping noise coming from an air duct in the corner of the room.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say home to Horse", "response": "You climb onto Horse's back and mutter the words. Horse stamps his/her foot and then, without a sound, leaps into the air. There is a rush of air, a moment of dizziness and then with a bump Horse lands in the stable. You climb down.\n\nYou are in your stable. Despite your best efforts, the small, rough wooden structure seems more homely than your own house. Horse doesn't eat (or go to the toilet) but in accordance with universal laws the floor is covered in hay and the place smells of horse poo. In one corner is a large whetstone. Fixed to the north wall are the brackets where you rest your scythe when you're not using it.\n\nExits: North\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sharpen saw", "response": "You try the blunt saw against the whetstone. As you know what you are doing, (and are using the finest whetstone in existence) it only takes about a minute to wear the saw blades to extreme sharpness. Nicely done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the saw", "response": "The blades on this saw have been sharpened on the whetstone of Death. As a result it's pretty sharp. OK. It's really sharp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say nevada to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nStorage Cupboard (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are crammed, almost bent double, into a small storage cupboard. With your prefect night vision you can make out several shelves, crammed full of pots and bottles of various fluids. There seems to be a definite cleaning theme to this cupboard. Your foot clatters againt more tins and boxes. Horse shuffles and kicks you in the knee. You think you might have found a new frontrunner in the \"Most Uncomfortable I Have Ever Been\" stakes.\n\nExits: East\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West\n\nPrivate Kline stands in front of the double doors, blocking your way. He looks determined to keep you out.\n\nYou move north.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West\n\nYou move east.\n\nBarracks (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are in a barracks. The room, despite being a place where people are expected to relax and sleep, is as bleak and clinical as the rest of the compound. At least an effort has been made and one wall is covered with posters. Rows and rows of bunk beds fill the room, a few of which are being used by off-duty and snoozing soliders. They seem to be sleeping very well, despite the beeping noise coming from an air duct in the corner of the room.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the duct", "response": "You lack the right tool to open the air duct.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West\n\nYou move south.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West\n\nPrivate Kline stands in front of the double doors, blocking your way. He looks determined to keep you out.\n\nYou move west.\n\nStorage Cupboard (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are crammed, almost bent double, into a small storage cupboard. With your prefect night vision you can make out several shelves, crammed full of pots and bottles of various fluids. There seems to be a definite cleaning theme to this cupboard. Your foot clatters againt more tins and boxes. Horse shuffles and kicks you in the knee. You think you might have found a new frontrunner in the \"Most Uncomfortable I Have Ever Been\" stakes.\n\nExits: East\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say paris to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nSecond Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 247 in a well-lit corridor on the second floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.\n\nAgathe Laurent lay on the bed, smiling to herself. Death hadn't been as unpleasant as she'd feared, but she would still rather cling on to life. She knew where she was with life. If there was one thing that Agathe had always been afraid of it was the unknown. Well, perhaps afraid was too strong a word. Agathe was loathe to admit that anything frightened her, but she was sufficiently troubled to be moved to action.\n\nIt had cost her a lot to get to this stage, but she thought it would all be worth it if it worked. She'd have done something that - as far as she knew - no-one had ever done before. She'd have cheated death.\n\nStanding in the doorway was an impossibly tall and lanky figure, wreathed in black and as pale as boiled rice.\n\n\"Come in,\" said Agathe...\n\n..you enter the hotel room, bending to get through the door as you go. You give Agathe a nod out of professional courtesy and stride forward towards her. She is still smiling. You wish that people wouldn't do that. It really unnerves you. You are a few feet from the bed when THUD! You stagger back, rubbing your nose.\n\n\"Ouch!\" you exclaim. That hurt! Gingerly, you reach out and find your hand pressing against some kind of invisible barrier.\n\n\"It works! Ha!\" Agathe gives a delighted little squeal and claps her hands together. You gaze down to the floor and see, etched on the wooden floor in a circle around the bed, a white chalk line. It seems to mark the location of the transparent wall.\n\n\"What the Dickenth ith thith?\" you demand, gesturing at the floor.\n\n\"Pardon? I'm sorry? What did you say?\" Agathe screams, staring at you with wide mouth. You stay silent, your face burning with embarrassment (or at least it would be if your body had the circulation and blood to perform such a function).\n\n\"I demand to know what thi...what i...what you have done.\"\n\n\"You have a lisp?\" Agathe cackles, \"Oh this is just wonderful! It gets better and better! Death has a lisp! The Grim Reaper has a speech impediment! How perfect!\"\n\n\"I haven't got all day, you know.\"\n\n\"Is that your horse?\" Agathe is leaning off the bed, peering through the doorway into the corridor outside, where Horse stands to attention. You stay silent. She'll explain eventually. They always do. When people think they've actually got one over you they can't help but crow about it.\n\n\"You've got a proper skeletal horse. That's amazing. A skeletal steed. Can you say that? Skeletal steed. Let me hear you say that.\" There is a glint in her eye.\n\nThis is not going well. In fact, you think that this is one of the the worst things that's ever happened to you, and you've got a long memory.\n\n\"Well, I may as well tell you. It took me long enough to find out about it, after all.\" Agathe shrugs \"I've spent most of my time and not inconsiderable fortune trying to find out how to cheat you. I built up a library of old, forgotten and - in at least two cases - forbidden books, pooling the knowledge of the centuries. I pieced together in several tomes the answer. Have you ever met Andre Theras, the man who wrote How to Avoid Death?\"\n\n\"That joker?\" You roll your eyes \"Jutht the onth. He got it wrong it seemth.\" You don't take much pleasure in your work but you'd quite enjoyed that day.\n\n\"Well, it turns out that he was partly right. And so was Dr. Ulan Buntil. And so was Madame Elizabeth Fairy. They all had bits and pieces of it right. I put it together and voila! I have created a barrier around myself that you cannot pass! And it works! So you can just sit on your skeletal steed and scram, sir!\" Agathe is enjoying herself immensely.\n\n\"Are you planning to thi...thpen...wait here on your bed for eternity?\"\n\n\"I can think of worse places to be.\" Agathe twinkles, winking at you.\n\nSo. What now? You can't reap her soul until you can get past the invisible barrier - or convince her to leave it. This is definitely one of your worst days ever.\n\nRoom 247 (Paris)\n\nYou are in a hotel room in a luxurious Parisian hotel. The decor is of the usual standard expected by those who have plenty of money but no class. Gold trim and regal, red wallpaper with extravagant, crystal light fittings and a white smoke alarm that looks out of place. The floor is polished oak, or some other kind of luxury wood. There is a four-poster double bed against the far wall, which is circumferenced by a thick, chalk line.\n\nExits: East\n\nAgathe Laurent lounges on the bed, pouting playfully at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the alarm", "response": "A bulky white box that clashes with the room decor. The alarm has a blinking red light which lets you know that it's fully functioning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying the Golden Hourglass, The Grim Reaper's Scythe, The List, a small magnet, the time machine plans, the military uniform, the shovel, the cigarette lighter and the saw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lighter", "response": "You casually move over to the smoke alarm while Agathe watches you like a hawk.\n\n\"What are you doing?\" she asks, but you don't answer.\n\nYou reach out for a wad of tissues from a desk and then use the lighter to set them on fire. Within seconds smoke is billowing into the alarm, which a few moments later is beeping like R2-D2 trapped in a washing machine spin cycle.\n\n\"What? WHAT?\" Agathe screams as the sprinkler system in the room kicks into life. Water gushes from the ceiling in thick streams and splatters all over the room - including the chalk circle around the bed.\n\nAgathe realises with horror that her work is being washed away and she screams in frustration as you discard the lighter.\n\nIt doesn't take long for the chalk circle to be totally erased, and as the sprinkler suddenly ceases its job Agathe looks terrified. You are grinning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Reap soul", "response": "You swing your scythe through the screaming Agathe Laurent. Her lifeless body falls back onto the bed and leaves her departed soul standing behind. She looks at you in terror as she vanishes.\n\nAnother soul reaped and one step closer to the end of the job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nSecond Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 247 in a well-lit corridor on the second floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "Type either 0,1,2 or 3 depending on whether you want to go to the lobby, first or second floor or simply exit the lift at the floor you are already on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You press the button to move to the first floor. The lift jolts and moves down.\n\nThe lift stops, the doors open and you step out on to the first floor.\n\nFirst Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 147 in a well-lit corridor on the first floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You try the handle but the door is locked. You need a keycard to get in. People are so suspicious these days.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the receptionist", "response": "A young man with short black hair, small glasses, a thin moustache and a severe look gazes out over the hotel lobby looking for trouble like an old-time sheriff. His almost-militaristic features are in total contrast to his hideous fluorescent uniform, making him look like the grim veteran from several campaigns of leading a circus clown militia.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plaques", "response": "The plaques tell you that this hotel has won awards for being generally excellent and has provided a bed for many different famous people and members of various royal families. People all end up the same way to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You move south.\n\nDining Room (Paris)\n\nAn elegant room is spread before you. A large mirror fills one entire wall, creating the impression of a room twice as big as it actually is. Soft, plush scarlet carpet softens the floor, and the high ceiling is painted black with white specks to resemble a night sky. Dining tables laid for use fill the room. A few kitchen staff are milling around, but other than that the room is very quiet compared to the relative busyness of the lobby.\n\nExits: North", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cutlery", "response": "You never cease to be surprised by how many of your Clients, when faced with the news of their own demise, find nothing more pressing than their concern about which relative is going to steal their silverware. Since having heard such vitriol directed at family members you've taken a personal vow never to steal cutlery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine menu", "response": "You risk flicking through the menu (and attached wine list). As the living embodyment of entropy you don't have a need for food, but this menu looks so good that even you feel a little hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "You're not going to sit on the ground. It's hard enough keeping these robes clean as it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You order the food", "response": "I don't understand what you want me to do with the dining tables.\n\nThat didn't make any sense to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the menu", "response": "You risk flicking through the menu (and attached wine list). As the living embodyment of entropy you don't have a need for food, but this menu looks so good that even you feel a little hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get menu", "response": "You take one of the table menus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "(Standing up first)\nYou move north.\n\nHotel Lobby (Paris)\n\nYou are standing in a busy, very expensive looking hotel lobby. It's a large room, with pillars propping up the high ceiling every few metres. One wall is lined with decorative plaques detailing awards and commendations, and right in the middle of the lobby is a selection of comfy-looking chairs. Everything is made out of marble or some other very shiny rock. In the distance you see large revolving doors leading out onto the streets of Paris and by the doors is a reception desk, manned by a person wearing a garish uniform seemingly pieced together from individual items salvaged from a fight between a cinema usher and an ice cream salesman. A lot of people seem to be milling about aimlessly. There is an archway to the south. The only other way out of here is to press the button that summons the lift.\n\nExits: South\n\nYou can see the hotel receptionist, his hawk-like gaze asserting his authority over everything that he can see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the blue sparrow", "response": "No-one pays any attention to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the receptionist about Room 147", "response": "The receptionist looks at you with disgust.\n\n\"As much as we'd love to have you as a guest at this hotel, sir, we only have one room available - room 147 - and I am not sure that you have the resources to meet our exclusive prices. In fact...yes...yes, while I have been talking to you the price of one night in room 147 has just tripled. Have a nice day.\"\n\nThe man's gaze moves beyond you to the lobby behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the revolving doors", "response": "You have only ever used revolving doors once before. It had pretty much the same effect as trying to use a whisk on a chopstick. They had to call the fire brigade to get you out. These are certainly very fine revolving doors but you have no intention of using them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the people", "response": "Young and old, male and female. Much like everywhere that you go, these people seem to be willing to do anything to ignore you. More so than usual, because these people are clearly from the higher echelons of society and have much more to lose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "You press the silver button, which yields gently under your finger.\n\nAfter a few seconds the doors slide open and you are standing in front of an empty lift. You step inside.\n\nLift (Paris)\n\nYou are standing in a claustrophobic metal box, each and every surface is shining unmarked silver. The doors have shut in front of you and, adjacent to them, is a panel at waist height on which you can see four buttons. Three of the buttons are marked for the second, first and ground floor. The fourth button displays two arrows heading away from each other, suggesting that pressing this might either split the lift in half or open the doors. You'd wager it's the second.\n\nThe lift is currently on the ground floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You press the button to move to the second floor. The lift jolts and moves up.\n\nThe lift stops, the doors open and you step out on to the second floor.\n\nSecond Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 247 in a well-lit corridor on the second floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You press the button to open to the door and step out in to the lobby.\n\nHotel Lobby (Paris)\n\nYou are standing in a busy, very expensive looking hotel lobby. It's a large room, with pillars propping up the high ceiling every few metres. One wall is lined with decorative plaques detailing awards and commendations, and right in the middle of the lobby is a selection of comfy-looking chairs. Everything is made out of marble or some other very shiny rock. In the distance you see large revolving doors leading out onto the streets of Paris and by the doors is a reception desk, manned by a person wearing a garish uniform seemingly pieced together from individual items salvaged from a fight between a cinema usher and an ice cream salesman. A lot of people seem to be milling about aimlessly. There is an archway to the south. The only other way out of here is to press the button that summons the lift.\n\nExits: South\n\nYou can see the hotel receptionist, his hawk-like gaze asserting his authority over everything that he can see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Follina to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nOutside a Cave (Follina, Italy)\n\nAround you, in every direction, stretches fields, hills and beautiful countryside. In the distance you can see picturesque red brick walls and a farmhouse. Right beside you, however, is a large pile of rocks rolled up against the side of a hill. It looks like the rocks are blocking the entrance to a cave.\n\nExits: No Exits\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.\n\nHorse skids to a halt on a rocky field, his boney hooves churning up small stones and pebbles. One hits you on the side of the head, which makes you curse. Horse neighs in apology or so you guess.\n\nYou climb down from Horse and check your surroundings. It doesn't take too long. You're standing in a barren Italian field, the nice view spoilt by the huge pile of rocks right in front of you.\n\nOutside a Cave (Follina, Italy)\n\nAround you, in every direction, stretches fields, hills and beautiful countryside. In the distance you can see picturesque red brick walls and a farmhouse. Right beside you, however, is a large pile of rocks rolled up against the side of a hill. It looks like the rocks are blocking the entrance to a cave.\n\nExits: No Exits\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rocks", "response": "Hundreds of mishapen rocks form a pile by the hill. They were clearly formed by some kind of rockfall and it's going to take more than a rock..err...rise to clear them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the rocks", "response": "Maybe, just maybe, if you had an unlimited army of trained monkeys you could clear this cave before the end of the day. But you don't. So there. You'll have to think of something else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the menu", "response": "Give the hotel menu to who?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Abuya about the wedding", "response": "Abuya looks at you, perhaps wondering why such a strange-looking man would show an interest in her wedding.\n\n\"I would marry this very hour if only I could arrange two things. I would want a beautiful wedding dress like the ones that I have seen in the magazines. And I would want a gift for my future husband. He doesn't like my cooking so perhaps I could give him something so that he wouldn't have to eat it...\"\n\nShe has a twinkle in her eye, suggesting that perhaps she knows that you have a vested interest in this wedding...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the Chess", "response": "\"I'm ready. Let'th play,\" you take your seat behind the black pieces.\n\nJimiyu makes his first move. You mentally cycle through the pages of the chess guide in your head and the respond. Jimiyu nods and makes his second move. Once again you recall what you have read and make a move. A frown crosses Jimiyu's face as he makes a third move. You respond appropriately. This is going well...\n\nHalf an hour later the game moves to its completion. As Jimiyu knocks his king over he looks up at you. Then in a split second his frown transforms into a huge grin.\n\n\"I really thought that would work,\" he laughs.\n\n\"If it'th any contholation, you're the betht opponent that I've ever had,\" you say graciously, hoping that he doesn't ask you how many opponents you've ever had.\n\n\"I've been ready for you for a while,\" he sighs, \"It was just a shame that I couldn't see my granddaughter finally wed.\"\n\nYou nod in sympathy but say nothing. You've never really understood human affection for these rites of passage, but you like to make people feel like you care.\n\n\"I'm ready then. Let us do this.\" Jimiyu smiles again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine magnet", "response": "It's a small metal magnet.\n\nYou are carrying the Golden Hourglass, The Grim Reaper's Scythe, The List, a small magnet, the time machine plans, the hotel menu, the military uniform, the shovel and the saw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nVillage (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in the middle of a cluster of buildings denoting this to be a settlement of some kind. The ground under your feet is dry and dusty. Children run through the streets, shouting and laughing. Men go about their business. Women stand and gossip, occasionally breaking into laughter. No-one pays you much attention. They're all having too much fun to pay any mind to death at the moment. A path winds east out of the village. You can see Jimiyu's hut to the north, and to the west the open doorway of another hut invites you in.\n\nExits: North, East and West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say nevada to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nStorage Cupboard (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are crammed, almost bent double, into a small storage cupboard. With your prefect night vision you can make out several shelves, crammed full of pots and bottles of various fluids. There seems to be a definite cleaning theme to this cupboard. Your foot clatters againt more tins and boxes. Horse shuffles and kicks you in the knee. You think you might have found a new frontrunner in the \"Most Uncomfortable I Have Ever Been\" stakes.\n\nExits: East\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You move east.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West\n\nPrivate Kline stands in front of the double doors, blocking your way. He looks determined to keep you out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Laboratory (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are standing in a large spotless room. The first thing you notice is a huge, strange, complex machine in the middle of the room. You've never seen anything like it before. It's surrounded by a work surface, on which are scattered various papers and notes. One wall is lined with computer terminals. There are also shelves, loaded with bottles and tools and around the room seem to be one or two unfinished experiments.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "You sift through the various papers. It appears that they all relate to the curious machine in the middle of the room. It seems that it's some kind of time travel device salvaged from alien technology. There are pencil notes in the margins and everything. The hand-writing seems to be that of someone who is intensely frustrated, and you can see why. The notes tell you that no-one can seem to get the machine working.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the Machine", "response": "You awkwardly clamber inside the time machine.\n\nInside Time Machine (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nThe time machine is clearly meant for someone a lot shorter than you. You feel like a pen in a matchbox. From the outside the machine looked complicated, but from the inside the task of understanding what's going on is positively herculean. You can see a large number of lights and dials, none of which you can understand. It doesn't help that any instructions written in the machine are in some kind of alien dialect. The things that you think might be significant are a digital readout which says '2007', the buttons next to this readout, an open panel revealing a mix of wires and a pile of paper which is chained to the inside of the machine, clearly to avoid theft.\n\nExits: Exit", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the papers", "response": "You begin reading the translation...\n\nCONGRATULATIONS ON PURCHASING THE CHRONOMATIC 3500!\n\nWe are confident that you will not regret your purchase. Please take the time to read this instruction manual and familiarise yourself with all of the features offered by this new model of an old favourite.\n\nNEW FEATURES INCLUDE...\n\n- FREE 'and space' upgrade. That's right! Your Chronomatic 3500 is able to move not just through time, but through time AND space!\n\n- Failsafe Homing Feature. Your Chronomatic will automatically return you to your starting destination when you have finished your business in other time zones\n\n- New Leather Interior. Time Travel in comfort!\n\n- 3 Year Warranty.\n\n(Please note - warranty immediately becomes invalid in the following cases.\n\n- If the owner tries to use an expired warranty machine to travel back in time to a year when the warranty is valid.\n\n- If the owner allows this technology to fall into the hands of humanity.)\n\nQUICKSTART:\n\nFor those of you who just want to get on with the fun business of time travel you can simply begin your experience with the following simple combination of instructions...\n\nStep 1) If appropriate select the time era you wish to visit using the RED BUTTON.\n\nStep 2) Simply enter the year that you wish to visit (no need to use any combination of commands such as 'type year' or 'enter year into machine' - simply type the year that you wish to visit!)\n\n...and that's it! The machine will do the rest!\n\nWe hope that you have a GREAT time and many happy years with the Chronomatic 3500. Remember - Have the time of your life!\n\n(and we really mean it about not letting the humans get their hands on this technology. Seriously.)\n\nYou also notice that someone has scrawled '5500 AD' at the bottom of the translation. You put the manual down. The original has many, many more pages but clearly the translators haven't got around to working on that yet. Still, it seems that you have enough to actually use the machine - if you can get it working.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the panel", "response": "You look behind the panel. You then pull out the wad of papers you borrowed from the house in Manchester. A quick comparison between the papers and the workings behind the panel tells you that there's something missing from the time machine - which is probably why it isn't working. You think there's a gap in here where a small coil of wire should be inserted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the readout", "response": "Either the aliens lack imagination or the local scientists here have rewired this readout to display numeric characters. Either way, you feel confident about guessing that this tells you what year you are in or are planning to visit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the surface", "response": "It's a plain, metallic surface for carrying out experiments on. Easy to wipe clean. At the moment it's covered in papers, notes and diagrams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the terminals", "response": "The machines are all switched off, except one - which seems to be running a game of Adventure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play Game", "response": "Oh wouldn't that be very post-modern and ironic. One game at a time please.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nYou are standing on a garden path. You don't have a garden so technically it should just be called 'a path'. The path leads through the void of emptiness from your house to the stable where Horse lives.\n\nExits: North and South", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You move north.\n\nThe hallway has thick, plush red carpet which always tickles your toes a little bit. It goes quite well with the black, pannelled walls. At the south end is your imposing front door. There are a series of hooks by the door on which you could hang your coat, if you wore a coat that is. A small bin sits by the door. There is also a full-length mirror on one wall. As you're the last sight some people see, it's quite right that you check that you look presentable.\n\nExits: East, South and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the letter", "response": "You bend down and scoop the letter from Blackbury Banking Services out of the bin. This might come in useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nYou are standing in your living room. It's quite small and cosy, with panel flooring and painted walls (black, of course). A bookcase stands against one wall. On another is a shelf, on which rests your CD player and collection of CDs. A comfy, well-worn leather armchair lies right bang in the centre of the room facing the only window. You often like to sit on the chair staring out into the empty, black void of time and space that your home backs on to. It's not a great view, but it's something to look at.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the armchair", "response": "You sit down on your leather armchair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at armchair", "response": "You've had this for about forty years. It is, without a shadow of a doubt, the comfiest chair that you have ever owned. And you should know. You had to sit on the floor until someone got around to inventing the chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine void", "response": "You see nothing special. In fact you don't see anything at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cds", "response": "If you wanted to listen to music on the go you would have bought yourself an iPod.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bookcase", "response": "The bookcase is full of diaries. Your diaries. Early on you decided that you would keep a record of your duties. There are hundreds of volumes here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the diary", "response": "You pick up a diary at random and flick to a page.\n\nMaterialised at a fancy dress party today. It hardly ever happens but it's really nice when it does. I'd only been there three seconds before someone pushed a drink into my hand and a girl tried to kiss me. It was a shame that I was only there because the host was due to fall out of a window.\n\nYou put the book back on the shelf. You can see no need to take any of them with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the diary", "response": "You pick up a diary at random and flick to a page.\n\nThursday 18th July 956 (BC)\nHorse's birthday. I had two jobs to do. On the way home I accidently dropped my scythe into the sea. Have to get a new one now, which means filling out the relevant forms. I was so annoyed about it that I forgot to wish Horse a happy birthday until the evening, and now I feel really guilty. Will apologise tomorrow.\n\nYou put the book back on the shelf. You can see no need to take any of them with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hourglass", "response": "The grains of sand tell you that you have four and a half hours left to complete your contract.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the player", "response": "Your CD player. It's fully working despite not being plugged in. The flashing LED display blinks '----' at you. You've lost the instruction manual and have no idea how to set the time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play cd", "response": "You are not in the mood for music right now. You tend to listen to it at the end of the day, when you want to unwind a bit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(Getting off your leather armchair first)\nYou move east.\n\nThe hallway has thick, plush red carpet which always tickles your toes a little bit. It goes quite well with the black, pannelled walls. At the south end is your imposing front door. There are a series of hooks by the door on which you could hang your coat, if you wore a coat that is. A small bin sits by the door. There is also a full-length mirror on one wall. As you're the last sight some people see, it's quite right that you check that you look presentable.\n\nExits: East, South and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nYou are standing on a garden path. You don't have a garden so technically it should just be called 'a path'. The path leads through the void of emptiness from your house to the stable where Horse lives.\n\nExits: North and South", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You move south.\n\nYou are in your stable. Despite your best efforts, the small, rough wooden structure seems more homely than your own house. Horse doesn't eat (or go to the toilet) but in accordance with universal laws the floor is covered in hay and the place smells of horse poo. In one corner is a large whetstone. Fixed to the north wall are the brackets where you rest your scythe when you're not using it.\n\nExits: North\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying the Golden Hourglass, The Grim Reaper's Scythe, The List, the credit card letter, a small magnet, the time machine plans, the hotel menu, the military uniform, the shovel and the saw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hay", "response": "No.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the letter", "response": "Dear Mr GRaper.\nHave we got an offer for you!!?? You, and others in your specially selected postcode region, have been chosen to take part in our amazing, introductory offer! We're offering you a free - that's right FREE - credit card with GBP10,000 limit*! ARE WE CRAZY?? To claim your FREE Credit Card simply turn up at our NEW Swindon branch and present this letter! That's it! That's all you have to do! No strings attached!**\n\nWe look forward to meeting you!\n\nMr. B. Jones (Manager)\n\n* 67.5% APR may apply\n\n** Strings attached", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Swindon to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nOutside Blackbury Bank (Swindon)\n\nYou are standing in a brand new but mostly empty carpark outside Blackbury Bank (Swindon Branch). Horse has settled in to a carparking space beside a black BMW and a red Mazda. As Horse shifts slightly you can see the word 'MANAGER' written in white paint beneath his/her feet. Over to your left, sitting on a brick wall, you can see two employees who are busy smoking cigarettes and trying to pretend that you are not there. To your north you can see a few steps, which lead right up to and inside Blackbury Bank.\n\nExits: North\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.\n\nHorse descends from the clouds and makes a perfect landing in the carpark of the new Blackbury Bank in Swindon, attracting brief attention from two employees who are on a smoking break. The human survival instinct kicks in and they soon turn their focus back to happier things, such as filling their lungs with tar. You clamber down from Horse, accidently kicking the door of a black BMW in the process. It hurts a lot, but if people don't pay much attention to the sight of a skeletal horse descending from the heavens then they're not likely to care at all if they happen to see the Grim Reaper hopping on one foot and cursing like a trooper.\n\nAfter taking a few deep breaths you compose yourself and turn your attention to the task at hand.\n\nOutside Blackbury Bank (Swindon)\n\nYou are standing in a brand new but mostly empty carpark outside Blackbury Bank (Swindon Branch). Horse has settled in to a carparking space beside a black BMW and a red Mazda. As Horse shifts slightly you can see the word 'MANAGER' written in white paint beneath his/her feet. Over to your left, sitting on a brick wall, you can see two employees who are busy smoking cigarettes and trying to pretend that you are not there. To your north you can see a few steps, which lead right up to and inside Blackbury Bank.\n\nExits: North\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nInside Blackbury Bank (Swindon)\n\nYou are standing inside the brand new Blackbury Bank branch. The plush red carpet tickles your feet and the air conditioning makes you feel cold even under your robe. You don't often get to visit the bank, so there's not much here that interests you.\n\nExits: South\n\nA female bank clerk stares at you from behind a counter, shielded by protective glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the letter to the clerk", "response": "The bank clerk's face lights up as she sees the letter. You slide it under the glass and she reads it.\n\n\"That's fine, Mr...Raper.\" she says.\n\n\"Reaper.\" you correct her, \"Grim Reaper.\"\n\nShe looks at you for a second and then grabs a pen, with which she makes a note on the letter that you received. She then slides you a form and the pen.\n\n\"Please fill this in, Mr. Reaper.\" she smiles at you.\n\nYou stare at the form for a minute. It simply asks you to sign if you are happy with the terms and conditions. The terms and conditions include graphic threats about what Blackbury Bank will do to you if you don't keep up with the card repayments, but seeing as pretty much all of the threats don't affect you (except possibly the one about the branding iron and the glue) you feel no reason to be concerned. You sign the form and slide it back under the glass.\n\n\"Thank you Mr...\" the bank clerk studies your signature for a second, \"Mr. Groper?\"\n\n\"Reaper!\" you state again, more firmly this time\n\n\"But you've signed it...\" the woman shows you the form through the glass.\n\n\"No! That thayth Mr. G. Reaper, not Mr. Groper!\"\n\nThe bank clerk looks at you as though you're the crazy one and then taps away on her computer for a second. A few minutes later she presents you with a credit card in your name. She passes you the pen and the sign the back of the card, feeling a wave of pride in your new possession and statue as bank customer.\n\n\"Thank you.\" you say, turning to leave.\n\n\"Ah, Mr. Reaper?\" the bank clerk waves her hand at you, \"My pen?\"\n\n\"Ah, thorry.\" you respond meekly, returning her pen to her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine clerk", "response": "The young, spectacled woman looks a little nervous. I imagine that you're not the usual type of customer that she deals with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Card", "response": "The credit card is marked BLACKBURY TITANIUM CUSTOMER CARD. There is a hologram on the bottom which informs you that you have a ten thousand pound credit limit. You have signed the rear of the card with your name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nOutside Blackbury Bank (Swindon)\n\nYou are standing in a brand new but mostly empty carpark outside Blackbury Bank (Swindon Branch). Horse has settled in to a carparking space beside a black BMW and a red Mazda. As Horse shifts slightly you can see the word 'MANAGER' written in white paint beneath his/her feet. Over to your left, sitting on a brick wall, you can see two employees who are busy smoking cigarettes and trying to pretend that you are not there. To your north you can see a few steps, which lead right up to and inside Blackbury Bank.\n\nExits: North\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the employees", "response": "There is a smartly-dressed man sitting on the wall with a cigarette in his hand, trying to look casual. A business woman stands next to him, standing and sitting as though she cannot decide what to do. She is smoking too. Neither of them pay you any notice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine bmw", "response": "The red Mazda looks pretty new and shiny. The license plate says \"BANK 1\". The black BMW also looks impressive, but one of the doors has a dent from where something struck it hard. Coincidentally, your foot also has a dent in it from where it struck something hard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say paris to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nSecond Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 247 in a well-lit corridor on the second floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nRoom 247 (Paris)\n\nYou are in a hotel room in a luxurious Parisian hotel. The decor is of the usual standard expected by those who have plenty of money but no class. Gold trim and regal, red wallpaper with extravagant, crystal light fittings and a white smoke alarm that looks out of place. The floor is polished oak, or some other kind of luxury wood. There is a four-poster double bed against the far wall. Everything is very wet from the sprinkler, and the chalk-line has been erased.\n\nExits: East\n\nAgathe Laurent's corpse lies on the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine corpse", "response": "Now that life has left her she looks like she died a long time ago and was only holding on to this life through sheer willpower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nSecond Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 247 in a well-lit corridor on the second floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "You press the silver button, which yields gently under your finger.\n\nAfter a few seconds the doors slide open and you are standing in front of a bald man wearing a long, black jacket and sunglasses. He conveys the air of one who is desperately trying to avoid looking suspicious and failing miserably. He nods at you in greeting as you step inside the lift.\n\nLift (Paris)\n\nYou are standing in a claustrophobic metal box, each and every surface is shining unmarked silver. The doors have shut in front of you and, adjacent to them, is a panel at waist height on which you can see four buttons. Three of the buttons are marked for the second, first and ground floor. The fourth button displays two arrows heading away from each other, suggesting that pressing this might either split the lift in half or open the doors. You'd wager it's the second.\n\nThe lift is currently on the ground floor.\n\nThere is a bald man in a black coat and sunglasses in the lift with you. He hops from foot to foot nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You press the button to move to the first floor. The lift jolts and moves up.\n\nThe lift stops, the doors open and you step out on to the first floor.\n\nThe man nods at you as you leave the lift.\n\nFirst Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 147 in a well-lit corridor on the first floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "You press the silver button, which yields gently under your finger.\n\nAfter a few seconds the doors slide open and you are standing in front of an empty lift. You step inside.\n\nLift (Paris)\n\nYou are standing in a claustrophobic metal box, each and every surface is shining unmarked silver. The doors have shut in front of you and, adjacent to them, is a panel at waist height on which you can see four buttons. Three of the buttons are marked for the second, first and ground floor. The fourth button displays two arrows heading away from each other, suggesting that pressing this might either split the lift in half or open the doors. You'd wager it's the second.\n\nThe lift is currently on the first floor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Lift (Paris)\n\nYou are standing in a claustrophobic metal box, each and every surface is shining unmarked silver. The doors have shut in front of you and, adjacent to them, is a panel at waist height on which you can see four buttons. Three of the buttons are marked for the second, first and ground floor. The fourth button displays two arrows heading away from each other, suggesting that pressing this might either split the lift in half or open the doors. You'd wager it's the second.\n\nThe lift is currently on the ground floor.\n\nThere is a bald man in a black coat and sunglasses in the lift with you. He hops from foot to foot nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Man", "response": "He looks about mid-thirties and seems to be very self-conscious. He's clearly worried but trying not to look like he's worried. Also, he's wearing a black trenchcoat and sunglasses indoors so he's clearly an idiot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the blue sparrow", "response": "The man looks at you, scrutinising your face. He nods, seeming satisfied.\n\n\"You are thinner and taller than I remember. And you were wearing shoes last time we met. Still, it's good to meet you again Agent Fellows.\"\n\n\"Ummm...\" you say\n\n\"This should be all that you need to get into the base. You know what to do,\" the man explains, thrusting a brown envelope into your hand.\n\nYou slowly open the envelope and peer inside. It appears to be full of false identification documents. The man nods.\n\n\"It should all be there. I will see you again when the time is right. Perhaps we could go on another date?\"\n\n\"Thank you,\" you say. There is not much else to be said.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You press the button to move to the first floor. The lift jolts and moves up.\n\nThe lift stops, the doors open and you step out on to the first floor.\n\nThe man nods at you as you leave the lift.\n\nFirst Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 147 in a well-lit corridor on the first floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You use your key to open the door and enter room 147.\n\nRoom 147 (Paris)\n\nYou are standing inside a hotel room. This room is identical to room 247. So identical, in fact, that you might as well reuse the room description. You are in a hotel room in a luxurious Parisian hotel. The decor is of the usual standard expected by those who have plenty of money but no class. Gold trim and regal, red wallpaper with extravagant, crystal light fittings and a white smoke alarm that looks out of place. The floor is polished oak, or some other kind of luxury wood. There are two large single beds against one wall.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie on the beds", "response": "They're immaculately made. You can't bring yourself to disturb that - you'd feel like you were walking over someone's grave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the alarm", "response": "A bulky white box that clashes with the room decor. The alarm has a small dull red bulb that isn't doing anything. This alarm isn't working.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "[open the smoke alarm]\nYou can't open the smoke alarm!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unscrew the bulb", "response": "[fix the smoke alarm]\nI don't think you can fix the smoke alarm.\n\nThat didn't make any sense to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fittings", "response": "Hideous. And seeing as how you've got the taste of a smoked mackeral that's saying something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying the Golden Hourglass, The Grim Reaper's Scythe, The List, a small magnet, the time machine plans, some false ID papers, the keycard for room 147, a credit card, the hotel menu, the military uniform, the shovel and the saw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the keycard", "response": "A keycard with a magnetic strip that allows you access to room 147.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wallpaper", "response": "Hideous. And seeing as how you've got the taste of a hatstand that's saying something.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Room 147 (Paris)\n\nYou are standing inside a hotel room. This room is identical to room 247. So identical, in fact, that you might as well reuse the room description. You are in a hotel room in a luxurious Parisian hotel. The decor is of the usual standard expected by those who have plenty of money but no class. Gold trim and regal, red wallpaper with extravagant, crystal light fittings and a white smoke alarm that looks out of place. The floor is polished oak, or some other kind of luxury wood. There are two large single beds against one wall.\n\nExits: East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the beds", "response": "The beds are well-made and in pristine condition. This room is waiting for a guest (or two).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nFirst Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 147 in a well-lit corridor on the first floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the uniform", "response": "You dress yourself in the military uniform. It doesn't even pretend to fit, but you're hoping that this - coupled with the identity papers that you have - will be enough to fool Private Kline.\n\nAfter taking a few deep breaths you stroll casually along the corridor and end up outside the autopsy room with Private Kline. He looks at you, as though he can't believe what he's seeing.\n\n\"At eath...I mean at eath private,\" you try to sound like a female captain in the United States Army. Your impression isn't bad, even if you do so yourself.\n\n\"Captain?\" Kline seems a little unsure.\n\n\"Yeth. Ahem. Private Kline, why don't you take a break. You've been doing a good job at...what ith it you're doing?\"\n\n\"Guarding this door, ma'am.\" Kline stands to attention.\n\n\"Yeth. Guarding thith door. You've done a good job. Take a break for the retht of the day.\"\n\n\"Are you sure that you're Captain Salmon?\" Kline seems unconvinced.\n\nYou pull out the false ID papers and wave them at him. Private Kline takes one look and his eyes open wide. You can see the process of the military brain behind his stare.\n\n\"Yes ma'am,\" he eventually says, \"Thank you.\"\n\nHe casually strolls off, probably thinking of ways to improve on The Game as he goes. You wait for him to disappear out of view before you hastily remove the uniform (which was really uncomfortable) and discard it and the papers.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Corridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You are about six foot five inches tall, dressed in the blackest robes anyone has ever seen. Your hairless, so-pale-it's-almost-translucent skin is stretched across your skull like clingfilm on a billiard ball. Your eyes are about the only thing in this reality that are darker than your robes, and your spindly, gaunt hands protrude from your sleeves like a bunch of chopsticks. You secretly think of yourself as 'quite handsome'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Autopsy Room (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are in a gleaming metallic room. Various computers and pieces of equipment beep loudly at you, as if they were offended by your presence. Low, subdued light flows from a single, large fitting in the middle of the ceiling. In the middle of the room is a single low metal table, beside which is a trolley on which lie a selection of medical instruments. High in the ceiling you can see the opening of an air duct.\n\nExits: North\n\nSplong5b lies on the table in a pool of yellow blood, totally still.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Splong5b", "response": "There's something unusual about Splong5b. It's not the fact that he's lying on a table with a single incision from chin to groin, his internal organs exposed for all to see - you've seen some ripe old things in your days. It's something else. Maybe it's the yellow blood, the pale grey skin, stumpy body, big black bulbous eyes, elongated head or the fact that he seems to have at least three hearts (as well as a whole bunch of organs that you don't recognise).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the instruments", "response": "A selection of stainless steel medical instruments. There are items for grabbing, prodding and pointing but there definitely seems to be a bias towards 'cutting'. Most of the instruments are coated with thick, yellow blood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take them", "response": "[take the medical instruments]\nYou can't take the medical instruments!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You clean them", "response": "[clean the medical instruments]\nYou can't clean the medical instruments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trolley", "response": "A gleaming metal trolley which can be wheeled around the room at will. It's much like an air hostess' trolley, but a little more macabre.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Reap soul", "response": "You bring your Scythe round in a sweep and slice through Splong5b's corpse. There is the usual tinkling sound that you associate with the task, and then silence.\n\nTurning round you see the shade of Splong5b standing behind you. You give him a friendly nod. He waves back.\n\n\"Cheers mate,\" he says, before vanishing into the ether.\n\nAnother name to be crossed off the list.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Autopsy Room (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are in a gleaming metallic room. Various computers and pieces of equipment beep loudly at you, as if they were offended by your presence. Low, subdued light flows from a single, large fitting in the middle of the ceiling. In the middle of the room is a single low metal table, beside which is a trolley on which lie a selection of medical instruments. High in the ceiling you can see the opening of an air duct.\n\nExits: North\n\nSplong5b's corpse lies on the medical table, his soul having departed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine equipment", "response": "You've never really got on with technology. They seem to be processing biochemical data. You press a couple of buttons at random but all you succeed in doing is making the room light change in intensity for a few seconds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fitting", "response": "The light seems to be able to fluctuate between intense and dim. I guess it depends on whether you really want to see what's happening on the table or not.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine duct", "response": "The opening in the ceiling leads into an air duct. It's too high up for you to reach, so don't even try.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Splong5b", "response": "Splong5b's soul is no longer in this body. It's just a corpse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You move north.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nAnother featureless military corridor. This time you really do see nothing special. The corridor stretches back south, the way that you came from. There are doors in the other walls. The north door has a sign that reads Security, the east door reads Barracks and the west door says Laboratory. Nice of them to label the doors for you.\n\nExits: North, South, East and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You move north.\n\nSecurity Room (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nYou are standing in a darkened room with one wall totally given over to monitors, computers and various dials, switches and buttons. This seems to be some kind of surveillance room. There is also a noticeboard on another wall with pieces of paper stuck to it, a variety of obviously important comments circled and underlined in red pen. To the east of the room is a heavy door marked Armory.\n\nExits: South and East", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The door is locked by a keypad, swipe card, fingerprint scanner and deadbolt. You try it anyway. Nope. It's definitely locked. You'll need a special key to get in here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You swipe the keycard", "response": "I don't understand what you want me to do with the small magnet.\n\nI don't understand what you want me to do with the keycard for room 147.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake soldier", "response": "No. That wouldn't be a good idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine soldier", "response": "Several men are sleeping soundly. It would probably be in your best interest to not wake them,", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say paris to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nSecond Floor Corridor (Paris)\n\nYou are standing outside room 247 in a well-lit corridor on the second floor of a high-class Parisian hotel. Light fittings line the ceiling. Splendid looking doors are scattered along both sides of the wall to the north and to the south. The fluffy beige carpet tickles your feet. There is a button on the east wall, next to which is a opening where the lift arrives. Imposing, closed metallic doors inform you that the lift is at a different floor.\n\nExits: West\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nDining Room (Paris)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Dining Room (Paris)\n\nAn elegant room is spread before you. A large mirror fills one entire wall, creating the impression of a room twice as big as it actually is. Soft, plush scarlet carpet softens the floor, and the high ceiling is painted black with white specks to resemble a night sky. Dining tables laid for use fill the room. A few kitchen staff are milling around, but other than that the room is very quiet compared to the relative busyness of the lobby.\n\nExits: North", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the menu", "response": "You can't sit on that.\n\nYou've already got the hotel menu!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the menu", "response": "You risk flicking through the menu (and attached wine list). As the living embodyment of entropy you don't have a need for food, but this menu looks so good that even you feel a little hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the staff", "response": "I don't think that is for sale.\n\nA handful of smartly dressed men and women are scurrying around making sure that this room is presentable and that the cutlery and tables are spotless. They're too busy to pay much attention to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Credit Card to the staff", "response": "Give the credit card to who?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "(Standing up first)\nYou move north.\n\nHotel Lobby (Paris)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Manchester to Horse", "response": "You climb on to Horse's back. He/She climbs into the air and you travel, at an incredible speed, to your destination.\n\nCellar (Manchester)\n\nThis is a dark and dank cellar underneath a house in Manchester. The tough, red brick did a good job of containing the blast from the exploded time machine. The remains of said time machine sit in the centre of the cellar, nothing more than a twisted pile of metal and wires. In one corner of the room is a stairwell, in the other a workbench and varied selection of tools and objects that look suspiciously mechanical.\n\nExits: Up\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic. Thomas Brewer stands here, looking around the cellar thoughtfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wires", "response": "You rummage through the destroyed time machine. The only thing of note that turns up is the digital readout, which remains - surprisingly - undamaged. It is blinking 10,097 BC at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the readout", "response": "That didn't make any sense to me.\n\nTake what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the workbench", "response": "You've never been one for DIY (other than in the scythe department) so you don't have a clue what most of the tools here are even called, let alone what they do. You guess that these were used to build the time machine. There's a large roll of masking tape here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You move up.\n\nHallway (Manchester)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Hallway (Manchester)\n\nYou've been in some impressive hallways in your time, but this isn't one of them. It's positively dull, and from someone who has done the same job day after day for millenia that's saying something. It's walls are coated with pink paint, which is in serious need of attention. The flooring is bare wooden boards. There is a telephone table next to the front door, on which is a - shock! - telephone.\n\nExits: North, South, West and Down", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the telephone", "response": "You lift the phone and listen for a dialing tone. There isn't one. Either the phone is broken or it's been cut off. Either way it's useless to you, so you put it back on the table.\n\nIt's a cheap, black plastic telephone with little number buttons that you push.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the telephone", "response": "You lift the phone and listen for a dialing tone. There isn't one. Either the phone is broken or it's been cut off. Either way it's useless to you, so you put it back on the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "It's a small, sturdy table. It has no purpose in life other than to provide a place for you to put a telephone, but it does that very well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine cooker", "response": "An old gas cooker. A quick check of the oven reveals it to be empty. You are thankful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chairs", "response": "The material that forms the seat of these chairs is dirty and almost worn through. At some time in their distant past you used to be able to fold these chairs up for easy storage. The accumulated rust looks like it would make that a herculean task now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the worksurfaces", "response": "You don't want to touch them so you look at them from a distance.\nIt's probably a nice worksurface, but you can't tell under the stains and crumbs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stains", "response": "The worksurfaces are covered with the ghosts of old food. You feel quesy just looking at them - and you don't even know what it's like to feel quesy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nHallway (Manchester)\n\nYou've been in some impressive hallways in your time, but this isn't one of them. It's positively dull, and from someone who has done the same job day after day for millenia that's saying something. It's walls are coated with pink paint, which is in serious need of attention. The flooring is bare wooden boards. There is a telephone table next to the front door, on which is a - shock! - telephone.\n\nExits: North, South, West and Down", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You move north.\n\nBathroom (Manchester)\n\nYou have no need of a bathroom so you never feel comfortable about what goes on in one. This means that you never feel comfortable standing in one. The lino under your feet is worn and in need of repair and the tiled walls are covered with mildew and mould. The kindest thing that you could say about the mirror is that it isn't broken, and the sink only has one tap. As for the bath - well, it's a great advert for fitting a shower. And you daren't even look at the toilet...\n\nExits: South", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "The sink is actually hanging away from the wall slightly. A stream of limescale marks the path of water from the dripping tap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You move east.\n\nBy a Lake (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nYou are standing in a grassy clearing at the end of a winding path that has climbed slowly out of the village. Right in front of you is a large lake of dirty water.\n\nExits: West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Lake", "response": "It's water. You've seen plenty of it before. Usually when you meet someone who really shouldn't have answered \"Yes\" to the question \"Fancy a swim?\" This is not the cleanest water that you've seen but it's far from the dirtiest either.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You move north.\n\nHut (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nIt's a fairly bare hut, lived in by someone who has learnt the hard lesson that true happiness is not found in possessions. The bare, dusty floor is going to leave its mark under your toenails for days. Jimiyu Wangai sits on a rickety wicker chair, facing a squat, uncomfortable-looking stool. Between the two seats is a frail table, on which sits a chess board.\n\nExits: South\n\nJimiyu Wangai is sitting on a chair, looking thoughtfully at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Reap soul", "response": "You swing the scythe and it cleaves through Jimiyu Wangai. He is still smiling as his body crumples to the floor, leaving behind the shade of his soul.\n\n\"Is that it?\" he asks.\n\nYou nod.\n\nHe begins to fade out of sight, gives one last laugh and waves at you. You wave back. Another soul reaped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the body", "response": "Now that Jimyu is divested of his vigour he seems very, very old indeed. There is a smile on his face. You appreciate that. You don't meet too many people who leave you with a smile on their faces.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Hut (Near Wajir, Kenya)\n\nIt's a fairly bare hut, lived in by someone who has learnt the hard lesson that true happiness is not found in possessions. The bare, dusty floor is going to leave its mark under your toenails for days. Jimiyu Wangai sits on a rickety wicker chair, facing a squat, uncomfortable-looking stool. Between the two seats is a frail table, on which sits a chess board.\n\nExits: South\n\nJimiyu Wangai's empty body is lying on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Chess", "response": "The board is old and has clearly seen a lot of use. The pieces have all been lovingly carved from wood by someone of moderate skill. It's far from polished or elaborate, but it has in abundance the charm possessed by such hand-carved object d'art. None of this information is going to prevent you from getting your bottom kicked though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Abuya about Jimiyu", "response": "\"You know Grandfather Wangai? He is ill and I am not sure that he will live to see my wedding,\" she seems crestfallen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Hourglass", "response": "The grains of sand tell you that you have just over one hour left to complete your contract.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Costume", "response": "It's not very realistic. You have never, for example, needed to wear a mask.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mask", "response": "[x -> examine]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the owner about Costume", "response": "You don't see anything that will help you.\n\nThe costume shop owner does not respond to your question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nDry Cleaners (San Francisco)\n\nYou are standing in a very dirty looking dry cleaning shop, which is somewhat ironic. The wallpaper is faded and the carpet badly worn. Around the walls are various photos of famous people who have, allegedly, had clothes dry-cleaned here in the past. There is a counter at the wall furthest from the door.\n\nExits: North\n\nAn elderly Chinese lady gives you a toothless grin and nods at you from behind the counter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the photos", "response": "You look at the various photos somewhat dubiously. At first you were really impressed by the photo wall, and it was one of the reasons why you decided to give this dry cleaners a try in the past. On reflection you have come to the conclusion that you would be very surprised if, for example, Tom Hanks really had had some dry cleaning done here. You are, however, prepared to believe that maybe, just maybe Tom Selleck has.\n\nYou feel a pang of annoyance that the owners have never asked to put a photo of you on the wall, despite the fact that every single man, woman and child in the world has been told all about you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the notepad", "response": "The notepad is a collection of dry cleaning tickets. You give your order, someone writes it down on the pad and then hands you the ticket. This high-tech system is supposed to limit the chances of you picking up someone else's laundry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the notepad", "response": "You have no reason to take the notepad or any of the individual tickets. So you don't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine till", "response": "A till, which probably contains some money or something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open till", "response": "You aren't really interested in the till or its contents. It's bad enough that you go around ensuring that people die at the right time, you wouldn't want to start depriving people of their livliehood as well. Your reputation is poor enough as it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the lady about the woman", "response": "The dry cleaning lady grins at you, nods, ignores your question and says \"You got ticket? You got item?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove cloak", "response": "Remove what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying the Golden Hourglass, The Grim Reaper's Scythe, The List, a small magnet, the time machine plans, the keycard for room 147, a credit card, the hotel menu, the shovel and the saw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Scythe", "response": "Wickedly sharp and imposing, this is your weapon of choice for reaping souls. It's a metaphor for your ability to harvest people from the land of the living, so it doesn't actually need to be a scythe but you find that people expect it. It's the look of the thing. Your Supervisors have gone to the trouble of making it invisible to mortal eyes after that embarrasing incident at JFK airport six months ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hints", "response": "There are no hints available for this adventure.\nYou're just going to have to work it out for yourself...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wire", "response": "For some reason you feel a strong urge to take the coil of wire, as though some sixth sense is warning you that you might need it later on. A cunning plan formulates in your mind.\n\n\"What'th that? Over there?\" You point to a random space behind the counter, relying on the fact that everyone is always telling you that the old ones are the best,\n\n\"What?\" says the store owner, turning round and proving once again that people can be really stupid.\n\nWhilst the store owner is turned you scoop up the coil of wire and put it in your robe.\n\n\"I don't see anything.\" says the man, turning back. He doesn't even notice that the wire is gone.\n\n\"Never mind. It wath nothing.\" You feel very pleased with yourself. You shouldn't. That whole thing was lame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tools", "response": "One part of the shop is given over to paint, another to tools and so on. You can't really be bothered to spend too much time looking through the items in the store, especially as you have no money.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the counter", "response": "The counter, like all counters everywhere, is home to a till. As well as the till you can see a sign which says \"CASH ONLY. NO CREDIT CARDS OR OTHER FORMS OF ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS ACCEPTED\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You move south.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nThe street continues along, leading the weak-willed mortals to even more ways to lose their money. Again, there is little here that captures your interest. People swarm around you, the same oblivious looks on their faces. To the north, almost swallowed up between huge department stores, is a tiny hardware store called I Came, I Sawed, I Conquered. The street veers sharply to the east and jutting out onto the pavement is a book shop called Reader's Digestion. You are also well aware of Happy Go Lucky Dry Clean to the south, as you've recently started using their services.\n\nExits: East, West, South and North", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You move west.\n\nHigh Street (San Francisco)\n\nIn front of you is a busy high street, swarming with citizens on a shopping spree. Shops line the street on both sides, and were you much of a consumer then you would be in paradise. You are, however, not much of a consumer, so the only shop that really attracts your attention is on the south side of the street and named Drop and Give Me Fifty Dress Ups. Perhaps it's the Grim Reaper costume in the window.\n\nExits: East and South\n\nHorse waits here, looking quite majestic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You move east.\n\nCorridor (Area 51, Nevada)\n\nA very plain military corridor, lacking any redeeming features. It seems that after having spent the budget on laser guns and mind control devices there's only enough money left for \"Hospital White\" paint. There is a door to the west labelled Storage, and the corridor continues to the north. At the south end is a set of unmarked double doors.\n\nExits: North, South and West", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at buttons", "response": "The buttons next to the digital readout are all blue except for the red one. Above the red one are two lights, one lit and one not. Next to the lights are, scrawled in biro on the machine itself, are the initials 'BC' and 'AD'. The light that is currently lit is the one next to 'AD'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "10097", "response": "The time machine hums but nothing happens. You must have selected the wrong era.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "10097", "response": "The lights inside the machine dim, the door slides closed and something inside the machine begins to hum. There is a flash of light, a momentary sensation of movement and then silence. The door slides open and you step out of the time machine into the past...\n\n10,097 BC (A jungle or something somewhere)\n\nIn the distance you hear the roar of some angry beast. Flies buzz around you. Thick jungle threatens to crush you from every side. Still, it could be worse. The time machine sits in a pile of crushed vegetation beside you, and a man appears to be examining some of the native plant life just in front of you.\n\nExits: No Exits\n\nErnest Busset is standing, marvelling at the sights and sounds around him. He doesn't seem at all worried.\n\nYou clamber from the time machine, feeling like a stick insect escaping from a tennis ball. Only when you've stretched and composed yourself do you look at where the machine has sent you. You appear to be in the middle of a sweltering jungle somewhere. You're no expert on time travel but you think that this probably is about 10,097 BC.\n\n10,097 BC (A jungle or something somewhere)\n\nIn the distance you hear the roar of some angry beast. Flies buzz around you. Thick jungle threatens to crush you from every side. Still, it could be worse. The time machine sits in a pile of crushed vegetation beside you, and a man appears to be examining some of the native plant life just in front of you.\n\nExits: No Exits\n\nErnest Busset is standing, marvelling at the sights and sounds around him. He doesn't seem at all worried.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Reap soul", "response": "You swing the scythe in a circular motion, slicing right through Ernest Busset. He looks down at himself and then crumples to the ground in a heap. The shade of Ernest Busset remains behind, looking first down at his body and then at you.\n\n\"At least I saw my time machine work before I died,\" he reasons, \"Not many men get to see the result of their life's work.\"\n\n\"On the contrary,\" you state. \"Everyone theeth the rethulth of their life before they die.\"\n\n\"Good point,\" says the ghost of Ernest, thoughtfully, as he vanishes before your eyes.\n\nAnother soul reaped. Another soul closer to finishing work.\n\nSir Allan Jones looked at the document again and coughed nervously.\n\n\"Um, yes, Lady McWorthington I have the final report on your husband's death right here. It's been compiled from all of the evidence we found at the scene and...ummm...it makes for interesting reading. I'm not sure if it would help for you to know what it says.\"\n\n\"Please. I have to know,\" says Lady McWorthington.\n\n\"Well. OK.\" Sir Allan Jones coughed again, wishing he could be anything other than the British diplomat to Nepal right now. \"We've constructed the last moments of your husband and it seems that...that...that he was climbing the mountain and had reached the pass. And he died there.\"\n\n\"I know this,\" Lady McWorthington is annoyed, \"Tell me what happened!\"\n\n\"From what we can tell, he...he...appeared to have taken off his boots and socks and wondered around in bare, size fifteen feet. Then...then a horse came along and stood for a while near him. Then it appears that he put his socks and boots back on and there was an avalanche. Which killed your husband...\"\n\n\"Oh.\" Lady McWorthington gasps, \"Wait. What was that about his size fifteen feet?\"\n\n\"Ummm. It doesn't quite finish there. It appears that after that...he...he...he dug himself out of the snowdrift and then lay down again. Errrrr. So. That's what happened.\"\n\nThere is silence. A clock ticks in the background. Sir Allan coughs again and waits. Suddenly Lady McWorthington breaks the silence.\n\n\"Size fifteen feet?\"\n\nThomas Brewer sat in the office of the university, his palms sweating nervously. Professor Johnson peered at him over the rim of his glasses.\n\n\"You must understand that while we are all very sorry to hear about the death...\"\n\n\"He's simply missing at this point.\" Thomas stressed.\n\n\"...death of Doctor Busset,\" stressed Johnson \"I must insist that you return to the university and resume teaching. This whole notion of a time machine must be put behind you.\"\n\n\"It works! I was there! And so was...\" Brewer stood and gestured wildly.\n\n\"And so was who?\" Professor Johnson sounded curious.\n\n\"Ummm...\" Thomas sat down again, remembering the tall stranger who had appeared at the cellar \"Nobody. No. It was just me.\"\n\n\"Hmmmm...\" said Johnson, unconvinced \"Still. I must insist...\"\n\nAt that moment they were interrupted by a student barging into the office.\n\n\"Professor Johnson! Professor Johnson! Quick! Turn on the television!\" the young man shouted, breathless.\n\n\"What is the meaning of this?\" Professor Johnson intoned.\n\n\"Oh...let me!\" the student stumbled across the room and flicked on the television sitting on a shelf. The 'BBC' news logo flashed across the bottom of the screen along with the scrolling words BREAKING NEWS.\n\nThe reported was speaking animatedly, his microphone shaking with barely contained excitement.\n\n\"...the most amazing thing is, despite these human bones being over ten thousand years old, the fact that this man had glass ionomer cement fillings in his teeth! Scientists are baffled by modern composite being found in ancient teeth and have refused to make any further comment at the moment - other than to confirm that the skeleton has been christened 'Ernest'...\"\n\nProfessor Johnson turned and simply stared at Thomas Brewer, who was grinning from ear to ear...\n\n\"So how's it going?\" the girl asked.\n\n\"Pretty good. Pretty good.\" the man replied, looking up from his laptop computer.\n\n\"So what are you writing now?\" the girl responded after a pause which suggested that she was going to have do all the work in this conversation.\n\n\"I'm writing a guide to Battleships.\" the man didn't even look up from the screen.\n\n\"What, like warships you mean?\"\n\n\"No, the game 'Battleships'. Oh no! You sunk my battleship. That kind of thing.\"\n\n\"Is there strategy for that game? I thought it was just random guessing until you got lucky.\" the girl didn't really seem that interested.\n\n\"Luck?\" the man looked up from his computer for the first time in the conversation \"Luck doesn't come into it. It's all about the strategy. Do I pick this coordinate, do I pick that coordinate? It's the ultimate game of cat and mouse.\"\n\n\"That's what you said about chess when you were writing your chess guide,\" the girl objected, examining her fingernails.\n\n\"So. What's your point?\"\n\n\"Are you going to pretend that it's sponsored by the President again?\" the girl looked out of the window.\n\n\"What? I never said it was sponsored by the President,\" the man seemed offended by the suggestion.\n\n\"It's kind of misleading though. You definitely imply that the President is behind your guides,\" the girl sounded disapproving.\n\n\"It's all totally above board. I'm not breaking any laws,\" said the man, who happened to be called George W. Bush.\n\n\"Still, I suppose this one's different anyway,\" the girl looked at him.\n\n\"Why?\" the man had gone back to typing away.\n\n\"At least you actually know the rules of 'Battleship'.\"\n\n\"As long as people keep buying my guides, I'm happy baby,\" the man concluded, as he switched his laptop off.\n\n\"One of your systems went off and contacted us.\" the fire officer explained again to the manager of the hotel.\n\n\"A malfunction. Nothing more.\" the manager assured the fireman, escorting him to the door. This was not going so well. It was only the sprinkler going off that had alerted him to the fact that one of his guests had died in the room. It was going to take ages to clean up the mess and deal with this unfortunate incident. And he had absolutely no clue why the corridor outside room 247 smelt of horses.\n\n\"Can we at least check?\" the fireman objected as he was pushed through the revolving door.\n\n\"No need, I assure you.\" the manager grinned and waved at the firemen gathered outside the hotel. One of them gave him a two-fingered wave back. Passers-by were stopping to look at the fire engine. The manager clicked his fingers and one of the staff came running.\n\n\"I need you to clear up room 247.\" he barked.\n\n\"...yes sir.\" said the staff member without much enthusiasm. He had seen what had happened in room 247.\n\n\"I'm going to call the police. Ms. Laurent was a valued customer.\" he sounded almost sad, which he was - especially because the bit of Ms. Laurent that he valued most was her seemingly limitless credit card.\n\n\"Yes sir.\" sighed the staff member, shuffling off to undertake the thankless task. To think that he'd given up a promising career at McDonald's for this...\n\nThe manager turned his attention back to the situation outside the hotel.\n\n\"At least the sprinklers work.\" he mused, waving again to the firemen - who seemed to be arguing amongst themselves. Honestly. Who'd be a hotel manager?\n\nVictoria Salmon stood in front of the Major, inwardly seething.\n\n\"There is no doubt that the uniform found was yours, Captain, and the papers - though a forgery - were very convincing.\" the Major was reading from a report.\n\n\"Yes sir,\" snarled Salmon.\n\n\"The papers seem to bear all the hallmarks of being a forgery by Agent Sunglasses and the uniform...you say that there was a mix-up at the dry cleaners?\"\n\n\"That's right sir.\" Salmon snapped.\n\n'Well. I think that the combination of uniform and papers would clearly have been enough to fool Private Kline - he's hardly the sharpest tool in the box, is he?\" the Major chuckled. Salmon said nothing.\n\n\"So, I think that wraps it up. It appears that nothing was sabotaged or stolen, so I assume that the only reason the spy was here was to find out what was in the autopsy room. No surprise there - you can read all about what we're up to here on the Internet anyway can't you, Captain?\" the Major smiled.\n\n\"Yes sir.\" growled Victoria.\n\n\"You're dismissed Captain. Thank you for your time.\"\n\nVictoria Salmon didn't move. The Major didn't notice for a minute or two, but he eventually did. He looked up and read the look on Captain Salmon's face.\n\n\"Is something wrong Captain?\" he asked.\n\n\"Sir. I read Private Kline's report. How could he think that it was me?\" she fumed.\n\n\"I thought we'd cleared that up, Captain. The spy was in your uniform and with some convincing papers.\"\n\n'It's not that sir. His report...\" she recalled from memory \"...described the person he spoke to as a ghastly apparition from the pits of hell Freakishly sized, terrifyingly pale and with the breath of a hellhound. How can he confuse me with that?\"\n\nThe Major thought for a while.\n\n\"Maybe he thought you'd forgotten to put your make-up on?\" he ventured.\n\nVictoria Salmon screamed, turned on her heels and stormed out of the room. The Major waited for a minute and then picked up the phone and made a call.\n\n\"Yes, yes. Hello. Yes. It's me. Look - you need to be more careful. You gave the papers to the wrong person it seems. Yes.\nYes. No. I managed to clear it all up. OK. Goodbye.\" the Major put the phone down. Honestly, he had enough on his plate without clearing up other people's mess. Who'd be a double agent?\n\n\"There's no future in it,\" he muttered under his breath.\n\nYou stare at the void outside, relaxing in your favourite armchair.\nIn the background The Eagles are instructing you to Take it to the Limit One More Time. You sigh. Today has been an interesting day, no doubt about that, but not one that you'd wish to repeat.\n\nYou slowly stand up and wander over to the bookcase, where you pull out your current diary and think about how to record today's events. You smile as you recall some of the situations that today brought you face-to-face with. You suppose that it wasn't the worst day that you've ever had - not by a long shot - and it's only going to make tomorrow's jobs seem that bit easier. The more you think about it, the more pride you feel in a job well done and the less and less terrible today seems to be. You sit back down in the armchair and turn to a blank page.\n\nLife is good for Death. Today has, all things considered, been a fine day for reaping.\n\nThank you for playing.\nCongratulations!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hourglass", "response": "[x -> examine]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Hourglass", "response": "The grains of sand tell you that you have half an hour left to complete your contract.\n\nThe grains of sand tell you that you have half an hour left to complete your contract.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "You wait. Time passes. It's what time does.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "animal protagonist", "Christmas", "cute", "fan fiction", "fanfic", "kid-friendly", "nonhuman protagonist", "parser", "short" ]

[ 2, 5, 3, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "'Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house, the\nonly creature stirring was a hippo the size of a mouse.\n\nThis year you're going to stay awake long enough to see Santa Claws. You have set up a temporary nest in the living room closet, and it\njust needs a few final touches. You intend to venture out to have a snack and look at the tree one more time, and then you will go hide in the closet and wait.\n\nan interactive holiday tale by Adri (\"Erin Gigglecreek\")\n\nquick introduction on how to play.\n\nThere is a tree here, decorated with ornaments and surrounded by piles of presents. There is also a table off to one side. The closet is to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "There is a table off to one side, draped in a bright blue tablecloth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "It's a rather lovely Christmas tree, covered with rainbow lights, a silver garland and colorful, shiny ornaments. There is a collection of presents underneath the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the presents", "response": "There are piles of presents surrounding the tree. There is one rather tall pile of presents in a neat stack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pile", "response": "A pile of presents stacked neatly under the tree, with the largest package on the bottom and the smallest at the top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the largest package", "response": "This present is wrapped in shiny blue paper, tied with a big red bow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "This present is wrapped in shiny green paper, tied with a big yellow bow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the largest package", "response": "This present is wrapped in shiny green paper, tied with a big blue\nbow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are a very fine specimen of Hippopotamus domestica.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lights", "response": "The tree is covered with tiny rainbow lights. The string of lights trails down from the lower branches to the power outlet. The wire is emitting quite a bit of heat.\n\nYou are feeling very thirsty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unplug the lights", "response": "If you do that, the pretty lights will go out!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "The tree is adorned with colorful, mismatched ornaments, many of which have been made by the small humans of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "This is the closet where you will be spending the night. It is full of things that you don't need to think about right now.\n\nYou can see your nest and a mitten here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mitten", "response": "It's a small mitten. It is sopping wet, and the mate is nowhere to be seen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chew mitten", "response": "You give the mitten a lick. Bleh! That doesn't appear to be food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the nest", "response": "It is a warm, comfortable mass of dryer lint and bits of string. It's not as nice as your nest in the bedroom closet, but it will do for tonight. It's still looking a little sparse, though. Perhaps you could find just one or two more items before you settle in for the night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the mitten in the nest", "response": "It's all wet! Maybe you can find a way to dry it first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mitten", "response": "You pick up the wet mitten. Ick. Soggy mittens don't make good bedding material.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "There is a tree here, decorated with ornaments and surrounded by piles of presents. There is also a table, about the same height as the stack of presents under the tree. The closet is to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the mitten on the wire", "response": "You lay the mitten across the string of lights where it nearly touches the floor.\n\nYou are feeling very thirsty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You suck mitten", "response": "Surely you can find a more sanitary source of water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the package", "response": "You pick out the prettiest present in the pile and tug on the ribbon with your teeth. The ribbon slips ever so slightly, and you feel a sudden burst of shame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ribbon", "response": "You pick out the prettiest present in the pile and tug on the ribbon with your teeth. The ribbon slips ever so slightly, and you feel a sudden burst of shame.\n\nThe mitten starts to smoke. You'd better go get it before you burn\ndown the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mitten", "response": "You quickly retrieve the mitten. It is now dry, and warm to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the ribbon", "response": "You try with all your might, but it barely moves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "This is the closet where you will be spending the night. It is full of things that you don't need to think about right now.\n\nYou can see your nest here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the mitten in the nest", "response": "You put the mitten on the nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the prettiest present", "response": "This present is wrapped in shiny red paper, tied with a big yellow\nbow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bow", "response": "You pick out the prettiest present in the pile and tug on the ribbon with your teeth. The ribbon slips ever so slightly, and you feel a sudden burst of shame.\n\nYou are feeling very thirsty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bow", "response": "It's a length of shiny green ribbon, tied into a fancy bow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open present", "response": "You pick out the prettiest present in the pile and tug on the ribbon with your teeth. The ribbon slips ever so slightly, and you feel a sudden burst of shame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "It's a rather lovely Christmas tree, covered with rainbow lights, a silver garland and colorful, shiny ornaments. There is a collection of presents underneath the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the garland", "response": "The tree has been wrapped in a long strand of puffy blue garland. It looks very soft.\n\nThe tree has been wrapped in a long strand of puffy blue garland. It looks very soft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the garland", "response": "You tug on a dangling bit of garland with your teeth. A piece breaks off, about as long as you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "This is the closet where you will be spending the night. It is full of things that you don't need to think about right now.\n\nYou can see your nest (on which is a mitten) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the garland", "response": "It's a short length of blue garland, very soft to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch it", "response": "The garland is extremely soft to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell it", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nYou are feeling very thirsty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the nest", "response": "You put the piece of garland on the nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "You briefly eye the tree, wondering how long it would take to climb\nit. Maybe you'll try it tomorrow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb it", "response": "You attempt to scale the tablecloth, gripping tightly with your teeth and feet, but it's not an easy task. After just a few inches, you let go and drop back down to the floor. Ouch!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb presents", "response": "You climb to the top of the presents. You seem to be about level with the table, on which stands a glass of milk and a plate of cookies. The pile starts to wobble, and you quickly make your way back down to the...\n\nThere is a tree here, decorated with ornaments and surrounded by piles of presents. There is also a table, about the same height as the stack of presents under the tree. The closet is to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb pile", "response": "You scramble up the pile of presents onto the table top.\n\nYou are standing on top of the table.\n\nYou can see a plate of cookies and a glass of milk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cookies", "response": "Don't be greedy! You should save the rest of the cookies for Santa.\n\nVisions of raisins dance in your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cookie", "response": "You nibble hungrily at the cookie.\n\nYou are feeling very thirsty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink milk", "response": "Little known fact: house hippos are lactose intolerant.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are standing on top of the table.\n\nYou can see a plate of cookies and a glass of milk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "It's a rather lovely Christmas tree, covered with rainbow lights, a silver garland and colorful, shiny ornaments. There is a collection of presents underneath the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick glass", "response": "You give the glass of milk a lick. Mmm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tablecloth", "response": "The tablecloth is a lovely shade of blue, and it reaches down nearly\nto the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick cookie", "response": "You give the partially-eaten cookie a lick. Mmm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick tablecloth", "response": "You give the tablecloth a lick. Bleh! That doesn't appear to be food.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "As you start back down the stack of presents, the cat of the house\npads into the room, the bell on its collar jingling softly. It immediately takes notice of you. You freeze in fear.\n\nThe cat hisses at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump on the cat", "response": "I only understood the first part of that.\nYou might try: >JUMP\n\nTo stop these messages entirely, type NOVICE OFF.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cat", "response": "It's an orange tabby cat. It is wearing a thin nylon collar with a small gold bell that jingles when it walks.\n\nYou are feeling very thirsty.\n\nThe cat hisses at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Roar", "response": "You let out a loud roar. HIPPO!\n\nThe cat cringes at the sound.\n\nThe cat hisses at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You don a pink tutu and the tiniest pair of ballet slippers and pirouette around the room.\n\nThe cat hisses at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the puddle", "response": "One of the small humans must have brought in an icicle and left it under the table. It has melted into a puddle of cold water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You lap at the cold water and feel instantly refreshed.\n\nYou are feeling very tired. Maybe you could just take a quick nap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "There is a tree here, decorated with ornaments and surrounded by piles of presents. There is also a table, next to which is a neat stack of presents, forming a staircase to the top. The closet is to the southeast.\n\nYou yawn loudly. It is getting late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "This is the closet where you will be spending the night. It is full of things that you don't need to think about right now.\n\nYou can see your nest (on which are a piece of garland and a mitten) here.\n\nYou yawn loudly. It is getting late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the nest", "response": "You get onto the nest.\n\nOn the nest you can see a piece of garland and a mitten.\n\nYou yawn loudly. It is getting late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yawn", "response": "You yawn loudly.\n\nYou are feeling very tired. Maybe you could just take a quick nap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nap", "response": "You close your eyes, just for a moment... When you awaken, it is daytime and there is a tiny wrapped present next to your nest. Oh\nwell. Maybe next year!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "I want a hippopotamus for Christmas.\nOnly a hippopotamus will do.\n\nYou yawn loudly. It is getting late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "You bellow out \"mini cheddars!\" a few times.\n\nYou are feeling very tired. Maybe you could just take a quick nap.\n\nYou close your eyes, just for a moment... When you awaken, it is daytime and there is a tiny wrapped present next to your nest. Oh\nwell. Maybe next year!", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Slice of life" ]

[ "active NPCs", "built-in hints", "I6 source available", "IF Competition 2004", "IFComp Game", "sexual content", "strong profanity", "walkthrough", "wasps", "Xyzzy Awards 2004", "XYZZY Best Individual PC", "XYZZY Best NPCs" ]

[ 5, 15, 5, 5, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "\"Oh, Julia! Where did you learn that?\" Keith whispers breathlessly.\n\nAll tongue and fingers, he kisses the milky skin above your breasts, while your hands slide their way up and down his sculpted chest, so eager with lust that your watch occasionally snags on a stray chest hair. Your lips, glistening like two fresh strawberries laced with dew, hungrily roam across his neck. And your hips! Well, that's better left to the imagination.\n\nNormally, you wouldn't even consider seeing Keith at Pine Meadows, but Frank's in Boston and won't be back until tonight's banquet. And when the cat's away...\n\nJust then, a low shelf wedges itself in to your back, jarring you from your reverie. That's when you hear it.\n\nA click. A flash. The tell-tale tapping of heels on concrete.\n\nThe next few minutes are a blur. Keith juts his tongue down your throat, but, without you reciprocating, it feels like he's searching for cavities. The rhythms of your body no longer coincide with his. In fact, the only rhythm left in your body is the pounding of your heart, the warm throbbing of blood in your ears. He must notice your discomfort as soon he backs off and starts buttoning his shirt.\n\n\"Well, I gotta get back to the Pro Shop, babe,\" he says, grabbing his shades. \"Stop by later.\" With that, he takes off down the hall, leaving you, still stunned, slumped against the wall.\n\nThis is the first time you've been in this closet, and hopefully it will be the last. Keith assured you that no one ever comes down here. And now you can see why. The concrete walls are oppressively close, made more so by the smell of bleach and chemicals coming from a filthy shelf against the far wall. Various brooms clutter the room, displaying none of the pleasant tidiness characteristic of the rest of Pine Meadows. All this can be escaped through a door to the south.\n\nTossed to the side in the throes of passion, your bag, a fabulous Louis Vuitton original, lays on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bag", "response": "A Louis Vuitton original, your purse can practically carry anything, which comes in handy but is absolute hell when you have to find your keys.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Your lipstick is smeared, your cheeks are flushed, and your mascara is running. At least the fact that your blouse is open should draw attention away from your face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour watch (being worn)\nyour ensemble (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the makeup", "response": "Using your compact, you carefully apply your makeup, adding a little more powder than usual to your cheeks to hide the flush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ensemble", "response": "Nothing but the best for you. Pumps from Prada, skirt by Yves Saint Laurent, a gorgeous silk blouse from the much-coveted Vera Wang collection. Too bad it'll all have to be replaced in two weeks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bag", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bag", "response": "A Louis Vuitton original, your purse can practically carry anything, which comes in handy but is absolute hell when you have to find your keys.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the bag", "response": "In the Louis Vuitton bag are your make-up and a pair of banquet tickets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine watch", "response": "Frank felt so guilty after spending a month in Tokyo that he bought you this. Honestly, you enjoyed the time apart, but that didn't stop you from playing up the guilt. So far, that little ploy has gotten you a mink stole, a diamond necklace, and a Bentley, but this watch takes the cake. Whoever said that flagrant displays of wealth were tacky must not have seen this. Exquisitely crafted from platinum and diamonds, the only downfall this watch has is that the gems tend to obstruct your view of its face, making it somewhat difficult to read the actual time. Still, it's a small price to pay to be seen sporting such a piece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the time", "response": "Looking closely at your watch, you see that it is sometime before five.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the makeup", "response": "Survival gear for the modern woman; you never leave home without it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brooms", "response": "Do people even still use these things? They're so dirty and utilitarian. Like those who use them, you suppose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the walls", "response": "There's nothing special about the walls. Except that they're unadorned concrete, a rarity in Pine Meadows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pumps", "response": "Nothing but the best for you. Pumps from Prada, skirt by Yves Saint Laurent, a gorgeous silk blouse from the much-coveted Vera Wang collection. Too bad it'll all have to be replaced in two weeks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Pure dynamite! Not bad for twenty thousand. Your ass is high, your tummy is tight, and your skin hasn't a line or blemish. It's a shame you'll have to do it all over again in a year. Oh well, no one said beauty was easy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "A short, dimly lit hallway between the utility closet to the north and the stairs to the rest of the club leading south and up. While the dominant smell here is, as in the closet, chlorine, some other fragrance, a sweeter one, is mingled with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Turning up your nose ever so slightly, you sniff the air. Although it is almost entirely wiped out by the smell of chlorine, you definitely detect the hint of something. Chanel #5? Dior Addict Eau Fraiche? Something. Whoever it was now has you in quite an awkward position, and likely a picture of the same. If only you had something to put you back on top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "Nothing happens. Guess if you want to travel someplace exotic, you'll have to do it the old-fashioned way and sleep with Frank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The stairs turn sharply north as you ascend.\n\nThis is the newest addition to Pine Meadows, built to house the new spa to the west. In stark contrast to the well-lit, tan stucco walls, a dingy concrete stairwell descends to south. To the north, a rather uninspired doorway leads to the office of the club manager. The hall itself extends to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Putting the club's best foot forward is clearly the purpose of the foyer. A stately crystal chandelier scatters daylight into kaleidoscopic patterns. Two verdant plants stand next to a set of double doors to the north, their leaves extended as if to usher people in to the banquet hall. To the south, next to the exit to the gardens, is a bulletin board. The hall continues to the west and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is the newest addition to Pine Meadows, built to house the new spa to the west. In stark contrast to the well-lit, tan stucco walls, a dingy concrete stairwell descends to south. To the north, a rather uninspired doorway leads to the office of the club manager. The hall itself extends to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "There's no reply. Charles must be out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Whatever smell is there is overpowered by your characteristic fragrance: Self-Obsession, by Calvin Klone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Pine Meadows's most recent addition, the spa was built during the natural beauty craze of the late nineties, when holistic was in and plastic surgery was out. Frankly, you never could understand why it was so popular. The smell of damp seaweed and aromatherapy float in from the south, where the actual spa lies. To the north and west, with a functionalism that seems out of place next to the distinctively modern architecture of the spa, are the women's and men's change facilities, respectively.\n\nThe crowning achievement of some hack designer, a desk, dominates the room, trying to give some sense of purpose to the poor soul whose job it is to man it.\n\nDesperately trying to look important, a receptionist peers down a hawkish nose at a log book, scribbling in corrections at a furious speed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Pine Meadows's most recent addition, the spa was built during the natural beauty craze of the late nineties, when holistic was in and plastic surgery was out. Frankly, you never could understand why it was so popular. The smell of damp seaweed and aromatherapy float in from the south, where the actual spa lies. To the north and west, with a functionalism that seems out of place next to the distinctively modern architecture of the spa, are the women's and men's change facilities, respectively.\n\nThe crowning achievement of some hack designer, a desk, dominates the room, trying to give some sense of purpose to the poor soul whose job it is to man it.\n\nDesperately trying to look important, the receptionist peers down a hawkish nose at a log book, scribbling in corrections at a furious speed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "A stainless steel and mahogany monstrosity, the desk reflects the gentle light coming in through the skylight. Surprisingly, or maybe not seeing as the spa's popularity has fallen with plastic surgery's resurgence, there is no computer on the desk; its job instead being done by a simple log book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the log book", "response": "The client list for Pine Meadows Spa, it contains the names and locker information, as well as \"beauty profiles,\" of practically every full member, part member, and former member of the club. If you want to find anyone in particular, you'll have to look them up individually.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up yourself in the log book", "response": "\"I'm sorry Mrs. Hawthorne, but that is confidential,\" she says, \"If you've forgotten your combination you can ask me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the receptionist", "response": "Tall, thin, and oh so Madison Avenue, the spa receptionist serves as a living advertisement for her business's services. And like most advertisements, she grossly misrepresents the truth. Her looks come from the tried and true: surgery, make-up, and anorexia. Not the herbal wraps and mud baths she pushes on her customers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the receptionist about the combination", "response": "\"Could you please tell me my locker combination?\" you ask, trying to be as pleasant as possible.\n\n\"One moment, Mrs. Hawthorne,\" she says, flipping through the log book. \"Yes, it's right here. Locker #11, combination 38-25-34.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the receptionist about the beauty profile", "response": "\"I'm really very sorry Mrs. Hawthorne, but I am incredibly busy,\" she says in a questionably trendy accent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the watch to the receptionist", "response": "You better watch out: people knowing about you and Keith is enough for them to think you're a Democrat. If you start giving things to the working class, it'll only look worse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the log", "response": "That belongs on the desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "\"Umm, Mrs. Hawthorne?\" the receptionist says, giving you an odd look. \"That's the men's change room.\"\n\nYou mumble something about allergies and come back to the lobby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Oh that's a nice blend: kelp and sandalwood. Really now, if you wanted to vomit you would just make love to Frank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the time", "response": "Looking closely at your watch, you see that it is sometime before five.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Your heels click loudly on the tiles, echoing down the banks of lockers that line the sides of the room. With the pool closed until summer and tennis verging on the passé, the only use the women of Pine Meadows have for this room is the lockers. The showers lie, unused, to the north.\n\nYour locker, #11, sits against the left wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the locker", "response": "(your locker)\n38 left, 24 right, 34 left, just like your measurements. Inside is a change of clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clothes", "response": "Besides from a little sweat, your ensemble is in good condition. There's no need to change right now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the locker", "response": "(your locker)\nIn your locker is a change of clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close locker", "response": "(your locker)\nYou close your locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Pine Meadows's most recent addition, the spa was built during the natural beauty craze of the late nineties, when holistic was in and plastic surgery was out. Frankly, you never could understand why it was so popular. The smell of damp seaweed and aromatherapy float in from the south, where the actual spa lies. To the north and west, with a functionalism that seems out of place next to the distinctively modern architecture of the spa, are the women's and men's change facilities, respectively.\n\nThe crowning achievement of some hack designer, a desk, dominates the room, trying to give some sense of purpose to the poor soul whose job it is to man it.\n\nLooking east and not seeing a flock of members coming to use the spa, the receptionist sighs and drops her shoulders a little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "\"I'm sorry, Mrs. Hawthorne, but there is a pilates class until five, you'll have to wait until then,\" the receptionist says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You make your way through the east wing to the garden path.\n\nServing as little more than a junction, the path here leads from the garden in the southwest to the outside dining area in the north and northeast. The club itself lies to the west and the tennis court to the east. To the southeast is the pool, but it is closed for the season.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "The pool is closed for the season.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Ugh, that's what roses smell like? Where's the benzaldehyde? the phenetol?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Since tennis became passé, this court is mainly used by those few members who actually enjoy the game. In fact, due to the reduced use, the club has even begun letting non-members play on it. You've never been that fond of tennis and with the rabble about, you're loath to even stay on the court. Hardly a big loss. The net droops, the benches are peeling, and the rubber floor sticks to your pumps. Although you are fenced in on most sides, thankfully, you can still leave to the more agreeable outside dining areas to the northwest and north, or the garden path to the west.\n\nBeverly Winters, a long time member of the club, hops from foot to foot, waiting for a ball to come out of a serving machine at the other end of the court.\n\nBarely turning, Beverly starts talking. \"Well, hello, Julia,\" she says, still not facing you. \"Tonight's banquet should be interesting. No?\"\n\nIn a strangely crude move, Beverly shifts her bra uncomfortably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "Once top of the line, the serving machine has seen better days. Its turning mechanism has broken, so now it just shoots out balls at the same speed and same course every time. Good for Beverly's score, bad for everyone else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell beverly", "response": "The smells of antiperspirant and sweat battle it out over Beverly. Unfortunately the antiperspirant is winning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Beverly", "response": "Just a couple of years your senior, Beverly joined the club a few months before you. This was back in the prime of Pine Meadows, before the computer boom, before the stock market became a playground for anyone with a couple thousand, before peasant blouses and the anti-fur movement; those were the days. Back then, the only thing to do was engage in dramatic rivalries. And what a rivalry you formed. Playful at first, it soon degenerated in to a spat worthy of the Hatfields and McCoys, that is if the two of you were troglodytic mountain folk. After dying down for a couple of years, the rivalry flared up again when you caught her flirting with Frank at one of last year's charity auctions. Normally you would have been happy to have his hands occupied for a few hours, but the insult was too great to ignore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine net", "response": "The net droops, and your spirits with it. It's fashioned from cheap rayon, not the delicate silk it was made of back when you used to play. You feel trapped just looking at it.\n\nBeverly pauses between serves, tucking her hair behind her ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bra", "response": "Beverly's chest looks lumpier than usually.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask beverly about the bra", "response": "\"Oh dear, Beverly,\" you say, glancing at her chest, \"you're not going to let your surgeon get away with that, are you?\"\n\nShe says nothing but shifts her bra again.\n\nBeverly smacks a ball across the court.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the beverly's chest", "response": "Beverly wouldn't appreciate that.\n\nBeverly smacks a ball across the court.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the benches", "response": "The only thing sadder than playing a sport that's passed its prime is watching a sport that's passed its prime. Judging from the thick layer of grime on the benches, it seems that the people of Pine Meadows might not be as sad as you thought.\n\nBeverly smacks a ball across the court.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the floor", "response": "(the floor)\nSoft with the heat, the rubber floor of the tennis court sticks to your heels, leaving little impressions after your steps.\n\nBeverly pauses between serves, tucking her hair behind her ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Beverly about Frank", "response": "\"You haven't seen Frank in a while, have you?\"\n\n\"No I haven't. How is your husband, anyway? We have so much catching up to do.\"\n\nIn a strangely crude move, Beverly shifts her bra uncomfortably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Beverly about Keith", "response": "\"I guess you know about Keith and I,\"\n\n\"Oh yes, I heard about that. Poor Frank. Of course, he'll never believe any of the gossip. Unless someone shows him proof...\"\n\nBeverly smacks a ball across the court.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Punch beverly", "response": "You two prefer more subtle ways of expressing your rivalry.\n\nBeverly smacks a ball across the court.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Beverly about the photo", "response": "\"Someone took a photo of Keith and I in the basement.\"\n\n\"A photograph, you say? How very Enquirer of you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Beverly about the lump", "response": "\"Really, Julia. Sometimes you are such a whore,\" Beverly mutters.\n\n\"What was that?\"\n\n\"I said: 'Really, Julia. Sometimes you are such a bore.'\"\n\nBeverly pauses between serves, tucking her hair behind her ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yell", "response": "(Beverly)\nBeverly isn't afraid of you.\n\nIn a strangely crude move, Beverly shifts her bra uncomfortably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show watch to Beverly", "response": "\"Really, Julia. Why would anyone be interested in that?\"\n\nBeverly pauses between serves, tucking her hair behind her ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the time", "response": "Looking closely at your watch, you see that it is sometime before five.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "Once top of the line, the serving machine has seen better days. Its turning mechanism has broken, so now it just shoots out balls at the same speed and same course every time. Good for Beverly's score, bad for everyone else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Outside dining (next to the Pro Shop)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. However, despite all that, the outside dining offered by Pine Meadows is really the only thing that interests you at the club. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA group of women sit here playing bridge and chatting.\n\n\"Beep beep\" My God! Digital watches at Pine Meadows? Cartier must be rolling over in his grave.\n\nCynthia Fordham, a woman whose wrath makes even you cringe, sits in a high back chair.\n\nApparently someone lacked the willpower to stick to their diet, as a bowl of half-eaten salad sits on the table, forgotten.\n\n\"I told you, I ordered Coquille Saint Jacques half-an-hour ago. What are you, deaf?\" Cynthia screams at a cowering waiter who then flees to the safety of the kitchen.\n\nJust then, she glances over to you. \"Oh, there you are, Julia,\" she says, her voice dripping with saccharine venom. \"I hear you have a way with the help.\" --she winks, a little too obviously-- \"Perhaps you could work your charm on that waiter for me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the salad", "response": "Little more than limp, wilted lettuce leaves and sour vinegar, the salad looks like it was picked at slightly, and then discarded. Nice way to spend twelve bucks.\n\nAmongst the lettuce is a pair of cucumber slices.\n\n\"So I was up at the golf course and do you want to know what I heard Roger say?\" one of the bridge players says dramatically.\n\n\"No,\" another replies, \"but I'm sure you'll tell us anyway.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cucumber", "response": "Taken.\n\n\"He said 'No grandson of mine is going to be a doper.' And then he disowned him,\" the first one says, waiting for a gasp. When she sees none is forthcoming, she continues, \"I mean, it was just a little pot, nothing to freak out over.\"\n\nThe second rolls her eyes incredulously. \"Really, now. Why don't you just stop shaving your legs and move to British Columbia already?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cucumber", "response": "Just two round slices of cucumber, about the size of silver dollars.\n\n\"She was in the basement?\" one asks, horrified.\n\n\"I guess that's what passes for courting among the help,\" says another.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Whatever smell is there is overpowered by your characteristic fragrance: Self-Obsession, by Calvin Klone.\n\n\"Still, you'd think she'd be a little more discrete. I mean Frank's only been gone for a day.\"\n\n\"Personally, I think she wanted to get caught. She always has enjoyed the limelight.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about Roger", "response": "\"Really, Julia, can't we talk about something a little more interesting?\".\n\n\"Oh well. Did you see what Cissy was wearing?\"\n\n\"How could you miss it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about Keith", "response": "\"So you must have heard and Keith and I.\"\n\n\"Well, yes. I know a woman must have her hobbies,\" Cynthia says coquettishly. \"It's a shame yours will destroy your marriage.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about the photo", "response": "\"Have you heard anything about a photo today?\"\n\n\"Oh yes, I heard someone took a picture of you. What a shame.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about Beverly", "response": "\"How do you feel about Beverly?\"\n\n\"She's a little manipulative, even for my tastes.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell Cynthia", "response": "Careful not to look like a bloodhound, you raise your nose and sniff delicately. Amidst the smells of wine and food, you detect the faint scent of Bellagio. Definitely not the scent from hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the salad", "response": "\"Come now, Julia,\" Cynthia clucks. \"I heard Frank cut up your platinum card, but must you really resort to taking leftovers?\"\n\nYou ignore her and take it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about Cissy", "response": "\"What do you think of Cissy?\"\n\n\"I'm just glad she's not talking to me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Outside dining (next to the Pro Shop)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. However, despite all that, the outside dining offered by Pine Meadows is really the only thing that interests you at the club. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA group of women sit here playing bridge and chatting.\n\nCynthia glares at the nouveaus surrounding her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the women", "response": "(the bridge players)\nA group of women sit around a table, playing bridge and chatting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the women about Roger", "response": "(the bridge players about that)\n\"Really, Julia,\" one of them says, \"we're a little busy right now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the salad", "response": "Little more than wilted lettuce leaves and vinegar, the salad looks like is was picked at slightly, and then discarded. Nice way to spend twelve bucks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about Frank", "response": "\"What do you think of my husband?\"\n\n\"Frankly,\" she pauses, thinking herself the funniest person in the world. \"I never got what you saw in him. I mean he's pale, he's flabby, he's a bad dresser. He's not even that rich.\"\n\nHow dare she. Sure the first part is true, but not rich? What is she suggesting, you married out of love?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "\"Really, Julia. I think all that time on your back has interfered with your sense of direction,\" Cynthia says as you bump in to a low wall.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Outside dining (next to the Pro Shop)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. However, despite all that, the outside dining offered by Pine Meadows is really the only thing that interests you at the club. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA group of women sit here playing bridge and chatting.\n\nCynthia waits impatiently for her meal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "That is beneath your concern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "\"Oh, off to see Keith, are we?\" Cynthia says, eyes burrowing in to you.\n\nNormally, you wouldn't be cowed by Cynthia's acid tongue but with that film floating around, you don't want to chance it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "\"Aww, leaving so soon? Well we must do this again sometime,\" Cynthia calls out after you.\n\nServing as little more than a junction, the path here leads from the garden in the southwest to the outside dining area in the north and northeast. The club itself lies to the west and the tennis court to the east. To the southeast is the pool, but it is closed for the season.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Outside dining (next to the kitchen)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. However, despite all that, the outside dining offered by Pine Meadows is really the only thing that interests you at the club. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA waiter bustles about, tray of wine glasses in hand, trying desperately to keep up with drink orders from demanding patrons.\n\nOh great, Cecilia Winnecott is here, the most frightfully irritating woman you have ever had the displeasure to meet. You attempt to duck out before she sees you but it's too late.\n\n\"Yoohoo, Julia! Over here.\" As if you could miss her. Her bright fuchsia pantsuit practically sears your retinas. Cissy sashays up to you, her jacket barely able to contain those three Danishes you saw her wolf down this morning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Cecilia", "response": "A hundred-eighty pound woman packed in a hundred-sixty pound Chanel reject. You've got to hand it to her though, all that fuchsia really does detract from what it covers.\n\n\"Oh, Julia. It's been ages. You simply must see our pictures from Tuscany,\" she says, and before you can decline, she pulls a stack of photos from her purse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the photos", "response": "Why does anyone think people want to see their pictures? Well, since you're looking, I guess that's a stupid question.\n\n\"Here's my eldest, Tyler, isn't he handsome?\" Cissy croons, showing you a photo of a rather dirty little boy with a finger up his nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the photo", "response": "You can see them as much as you like from here, which isn't much at all.\n\n\"Oh ooh, here's Madison. Isn't she darling?\"\n\n\"She's absolutely breathtaking,\" you say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search photos", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\n\"And this is our villa, isn't it just to die for?\"\n\nFrankly, you agree. You'd die before setting foot in such a dismal little hovel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell cissy", "response": "Your nose is overrun with both Dolce and Gabbana.\n\n\"Aww, look at little Aidan. Isn't he a treasure?\"\n\nMy God, doesn't this woman ever stop breeding?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about Cynthia", "response": "\"So what do you think of Cynthia?\"\n\n\"She's a dreadful gossip, that woman.\" Cissy leans in a bit closer, \"Who, by the way, is going back for another collagen treatment in a week.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about Beverly", "response": "\"What do you think of Beverly?\"\n\nShe shudders. \"Ugh, don't mention that horrible woman to me.\"\n\nCissy recently found out all the bad things Beverly says behind her back. Fortunately, she thinks Beverly is the only one who says them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell cissy", "response": "Your nose is overrun with both Dolce and Gabbana.\n\nCissy continues to prattle on about her oh so fascinating life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about the outfit", "response": "Cissy has the memory span of a goldfish. Unless it was related directly to what she's talking about, she would forget her own name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about Frank", "response": "\"What do you think of Frank?\"\n\n\"Oh, you've got yourself a keeper there. He really does worship the ground you walk on.\"\n\nYou must admit: that's nice. It makes him all the easier to walk all over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about Keith", "response": "\"I suppose you've heard about Keith and I.\"\n\n\"Oh, that. Well, I wasn't going to bring it up; it's vulgar, really. Besides, I don't believe a word of it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about the photos", "response": "You subtilely feel Cissy out about the photo, but she doesn't get it.\n\n\"They're spectacular, aren't they? I took them all myself,\" she says, admiring a blurry photo of what looks to be an ape, or her husband.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about the kids", "response": "You make a passing comment about her kids.\n\n\"Children are an absolute treasure, aren't they?\" she says, looking at her photos fondly. \"Really Julia, you simply must have one one of these days.\"\n\nAny thought you ever had of having a child went up in smoke after seeing her 'charming' brood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about the banquet", "response": "You mention the banquet to Cissy.\n\n\"Oh yes, you have that speech as Philanthropist of the Year, don't you? Really, Julia, you are such an inspiration. You could really teach these nouveaus,\" she glances around the dining area disdainfully, \"a thing or two about noblesse obligé.\"\n\nWhere does she get off with that tone? Her family made its money from inventing the egg carton.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cecilia about the egg carton", "response": "\"Didn't your family make its money in egg cartons?\"\n\n\"Well you know my great-grandfather, Sir Arthur Chesterbald Winnecott, invented them, right? Oh he was a brilliant man.\"\n\nCissy proceeds to relate to you how the modern egg-carton evolved through a series of steps. First in boxes, then in little cardboard cups, and finally the styrofoam ones we've grown to know and love. Somehow, through the magic that is Cissy, she manages to make it more boring than you thought possible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the waiter", "response": "Tuxedoes aren't active wear, and the waiter exemplifies perfectly why this is so. His cummerbund prevents him from turning his waist; his whole ensemble clings to him with sweat. In fact, his bow tie seems so tight that his eyes bug out and his face is flushed.\n\nCissy continues to prattle on about her oh so fascinating life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cissy about the gossip", "response": "\"I suppose you've heard about Keith and I.\"\n\n\"Oh, that. Well, I wasn't going to bring it up; it's vulgar, really. Besides, I don't believe a word of it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "\"Umm, Julia, hon. That's the kitchen,\" says Cissy, giving you a peculiar look. You can't blame her. Most people, if they want to complain, just scream at the waiters in front of everyone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "\"I'm dreadfully sorry, Cissy, but I have some things to do,\" you say, rubbing your temples in attempt to ward off the migraine you know is coming.\n\n\"Ciao!\" Please, one month in Tuscany and she thinks she's Monica Bellucci.\n\nOutside dining (next to the Pro Shop)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. However, despite all that, the outside dining offered by Pine Meadows is really the only thing that interests you at the club. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA group of women sit here playing bridge and chatting.\n\nCynthia glares at the nouveaus surrounding her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about the receptionist", "response": "\"Really, Julia, can't we talk about something a little more interesting?\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about the club manager", "response": "\"What do you think of Pine Meadows?\"\n\n\"It's a shame what's happened to the place,\" she says, almost wistfully. \"Nouveaus.\" She rolls her eyes in the direction of the diners.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cynthia about Charles", "response": "\"What do you think of Charles?\"\n\n\"Really, Julia. The only thing worse than being a bore is talking about one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the time", "response": "Looking closely at your watch, you see that it is just after five.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "\"Aww, leaving so soon? Well we must do this again sometime,\" Cynthia calls out after you.\n\nServing as little more than a junction, the path here leads from the garden in the southwest to the outside dining area in the north and northeast. The club itself lies to the west and the tennis court to the east. To the southeast is the pool, but it is closed for the season.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Being this far out in the country, the garden is really the only place at Pine Meadows where nature exists, yet isn't out of control. The topiary is subtle, no garish animals or ambitious creations. Flowers line the drive to the south, down which the valet service lies. A path, hedged with rose bushes, curves round the club to the northeast, and the club itself lies to the north.\n\nMelissa Stratham, wife to Johnathan Stratham, sits here on a bench, delicately leafing through a paperback novel.\n\nAs she sees you enter, she looks up and grins impishly. \"Oh, Julia,\" she says, closing her book for a moment. \"I'm surprised to see you here. I thought you preferred to do your hoeing in the basement.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell Melissa", "response": "You raise your nose ever so slightly and sniff. Chanel #5, definitely the same as in the hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about Frank", "response": "\"So what do you think of my husband?\"\n\n\"Well he will certainly spice up the banquet. He is going to be there, isn't he? It just won't be any fun without him.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about Keith", "response": "\"I suppose you heard about Keith and I.\"\n\n\"Oh that, you know how this place is. News spreads fast.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about the photo", "response": "\"Have you heard of a certain photo making it about the club?\"\n\n\"Oh yes, I heard someone had taken a photo of you as you were, indisposed. There's just no privacy any more is there?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about the perfume", "response": "\"That's a charming fragrance, Melissa. Whatever is it?\"\n\n\"It's Chanel #5, do you like it?\"\n\n\"Well, no. But then again, I have taste,\" you reply snidely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about the hall", "response": "\"What were you doing in the basement? And don't deny it, it reeked of Chanel, just like you.\"\n\n\"Really, Julia. This paranoia is most unbecoming. A lot of people wear Chanel #5,\" Melissa says, shifting in her seat slightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "It's the latest Danielle Steel: something about a wealthy heiress and a stableboy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about the book", "response": "\"That's quite a book you have there.\"\n\n\"Do you like it? I thought you might. It's about a wealthy heiress and her affair with the stableboy.\" She pauses, thoughtfully. \"Hey, perhaps you could write your own. You know, update it for the modern world. I'm sure you have enough material.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about Charles", "response": "\"That Charles is something else, isn't he?\"\n\n\"Don't get me started. That man is such a bore. I dread each time I have to pay my dues and listen to him speak.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about Beverly", "response": "\"You've taken quite a shine to Beverly, haven't you?\"\n\n\"Well yes I have. It was so kind of her to take me under her wing. Now there's a woman who knows how to get what she wants.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about Cynthia", "response": "\"What do you know of Cynthia?\"\n\n\"I'd watch your step around her. She's a sly one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about Cissy", "response": "\"My God, did you see what Cissy was wearing?\"\n\n\"Oh, that woman. She just does not know interesting photography. Cynthia on the other hand...\" Melissa lets her words trail off deliberately.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about the receptionist", "response": "\"Please, Julia. I'm trying to read.\" Melissa says, barely glancing up.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Being this far out in the country, the garden is really the only place at Pine Meadows where nature exists, yet isn't out of control. The topiary is subtle, no garish animals or ambitious creations. Flowers line the drive to the south, down which the valet service lies. A path, hedged with rose bushes, curves round the club to the northeast, and the club itself lies to the north.\n\nMelissa continues to read her book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flowers", "response": "Hedges of rose bushes frame the sides of the path, their little pink flowers swaying in a cool breeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Putting the club's best foot forward is clearly the purpose of the foyer. A stately crystal chandelier scatters daylight into kaleidoscopic patterns. Two verdant plants stand next to a set of double doors to the north, their leaves extended as if to usher people in to the banquet hall. To the south, next to the exit to the gardens, is a bulletin board. The hall continues to the west and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The hall is closed until tonight's banquet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Pine Meadows's most recent addition, the spa was built during the natural beauty craze of the late nineties, when holistic was in and plastic surgery was out. Frankly, you never could understand why it was so popular. The smell of damp seaweed and aromatherapy float in from the south, where the actual spa lies. To the north and west, with a functionalism that seems out of place next to the distinctively modern architecture of the spa, are the women's and men's change facilities, respectively.\n\nThe crowning achievement of some hack designer, a desk, dominates the room, trying to give some sense of purpose to the poor soul whose job it is to man it.\n\nThe receptionist glances around and sighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the receptionist about herself", "response": "\"How are you today?\" you ask, trying to be as nice as possible.\n\n\"I'm fine. A little tired, but you know how it is.\"\n\nIs she actually suggesting you've ever looked tired? It's definitely time to see Dr. Rickers again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the receptionist about Beverly", "response": "You ask about one of the spa patrons.\n\n\"I'm sorry Mrs. Hawthorne, but the stylist-client relationship is one of strictest confidence.\"\n\nTrue, they are the priests and therapists of the new millenium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the salad to the receptionist", "response": "\"I couldn't possibly. Too fattening,\" she says, waving the salad away with the bones she calls fingers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na half-eaten salad\na pair of cucumber slices\nyour Louis Vuitton bag (which is open)\nyour make-up\na pair of banquet tickets\nyour watch (being worn)\nyour ensemble (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the cucumber to the receptionist", "response": "\"Oh that would be perfect for Ms. Williams facial. We ran out of out supply ages ago.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Just two years ago, this place would have been packed at this time of day. Now hardly anyone comes in here, and you can hardly blame them. It feels more like some hellish jungle than a spa. The smell is subtle but gnaws at you nonetheless. A bed of rocks, heated to drive up sweat and drive out impurities, gives the room a heavy, fevered feeling, making you wonder why they even bothered considering there is already a whirlpool to the south. For those club members who have given up on trying to hide the fact that they dye their hair, a hairdresser's station sits to one side, from which you have a clear view of the lobby and its desk to the north. And all this set to some \"Sounds of Nature\" CD. Already, your hair is going limp from all the humidity.\n\nMs. Williams, face covered in mud, sits at the hairdresser's station waiting for her weekly colouring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Williams", "response": "(Ms. Williams)\nA fearsome sight, Ms. Williams has opted for a peculiar strategy in fighting the ravages of time: none. When she smiles, a rare event, the crow's feet (although ostrich might be more fitting by comparison) lace across her face like webs. If it weren't for her weekly dye job you might think she were over a hundred.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell Williams", "response": "(Ms. Williams)\nMothballs and ribbon candy. Guess even money can't ward off the smell of the elderly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the cucumber to Williams", "response": "(Ms. Williams)\n\"I thought you could use some cucumber to complete your facial,\" you say, handing her the slices.\n\n\"Oh thank you, Julia,\" Ms. Williams croons. \"These will be perfect for my eyes. That idiot at the desk doesn't know half as much about beauty as you,\" she says, laying the slices on her eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rocks", "response": "Heated by some unknown source, the rocks cause the air above them to shimmer like a mirage. On the floor beside the bed of rocks is a bucket of water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bucket", "response": "Trying to capture some of the supposed ambience of colonial America, this bucket is constructed of well-fitted oak panels. Hooked on to the side of the bucket is a ladle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the rocks", "response": "You plunge the ladle in to the bucket and pour the water on to the rocks. A loud hiss ensues as a cloud of steam fills the room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Just two years ago, this place would have been packed at this time of day. Now hardly anyone comes in here, and you can hardly blame them. It feels more like some hellish jungle than a spa. The smell is subtle but gnaws at you nonetheless. A bed of rocks, heated to drive up sweat and drive out impurities, gives the room a heavy, fevered feeling, making you wonder why they even bothered considering there is already a whirlpool to the south. For those club members who have given up on trying to hide the fact that they dye their hair, a hairdresser's station sits to one side, from which you have a clear view of the lobby and its desk to the north. And all this set to some \"Sounds of Nature\" CD.\n\nThe jungle image is now complete as steam wraps its way around the plants, partially obscuring your vision.\n\nMs. Williams, face covered in mud, sits at the hairdresser's station waiting for her weekly colouring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the station", "response": "An all-in-one sink, chair, and hair dryer, the hairdresser's station is a testament to the fact that the spa doesn't service enough people to get the standard banks of equipment that more profitable ones do. While in itself an adequate piece of equipment, you would rather have one machine do each job and do it right.\n\nOn the brim of the sink rests a bottle of dye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Williams about the receptionist", "response": "(Ms. Williams about that)\n\"What's with that receptionist? Who does she think she is?\"\n\n\"I don't know, but she was supposed to be in here ages ago to do my hair.\"\nAs fast as it appeared, the steam dissipates, allowing you to see clearly again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dye", "response": "You would die before being caught putting this in your hair. As to whether you would actually put it in or not, only your stylist knows for sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dye", "response": "You plunge the ladle in to the bucket and pour the water on to the rocks. A loud hiss ensues as a cloud of steam fills the room.\nYou would die before being caught putting this in your hair. As to whether you would actually put it in or not, only your stylist knows for sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put dye on Williams", "response": "(Ms. Williams)\nYou need to be holding the dye before you can put it on top of something else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the dye in the bucket", "response": "You need to be holding the dye before you can put it into something else.\nAs fast as it appeared, the steam dissipates, allowing you to see clearly again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock over the dye", "response": "You do manual labour? Get real.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The whirlpool is currently occupied. Besides, if you wanted to lie in a pool of someone else's filth, you'd have a bath with Frank and make his day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at time", "response": "Looking closely at your watch, you see that it is sometime after five.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at plants", "response": "These plants have seen better days. All the steam from the whirlpool and all the heat from the rocks have taken their toll. It's probably for the best. When will people learn that nature belongs outside?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the receptionist about the dye", "response": "\"Shouldn't you start doing Ms. Williams's dye job?\" Hey, if you don't keep the help in line, who will?\n\n\"I'll get to her colouring just as soon as I finish this,\" the receptionist says, although you can't imagine what is so important. She probably just enjoys making her squirm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Just two years ago, this place would have been packed at this time of day. Now hardly anyone comes in here, and you can hardly blame them. It feels more like some hellish jungle than a spa. The smell is subtle but gnaws at you nonetheless. A bed of rocks, heated to drive up sweat and drive out impurities, gives the room a heavy, fevered feeling, making you wonder why they even bothered considering there is already a whirlpool to the south. For those club members who have given up on trying to hide the fact that they dye their hair, a hairdresser's station sits to one side, from which you have a clear view of the lobby and its desk to the north. And all this set to some \"Sounds of Nature\" CD.\n\nMs. Williams, face covered in mud, sits at the hairdresser's station waiting for her weekly colouring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "The stairs turn sharply north as you descend.\n\nA short, dimly lit hallway between the utility closet to the north and the stairs to the rest of the club leading south and up.\n\nA faint smell lingers in the hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The concrete walls of this closet are oppressively close, made more so by the smell of bleach and chemicals coming from a filthy shelf against the far wall. Various brooms clutter the room, displaying none of the pleasant tidiness characteristic of the rest of Pine Meadows. All this can be escaped through a door to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bleach", "response": "Nah, let the cleaning staff handle that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelf", "response": "A filthy metal shelf hangs on the far wall, sagging from the weight of the cleaning supplies it struggles to support. Although most of them are foreign to you, you do recognize one bottle as bleach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bleach", "response": "(the bleach)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bleach", "response": "(the bleach)\nAlthough cleaning has never been your forte, judging by the label and its numerous warnings, you would say this bottle contained bleach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell the bleach", "response": "(the bleach)\nThe pungent smell of chlorine fills your nostrils, burning the delicate membranes inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A short, dimly lit hallway between the utility closet to the north and the stairs to the rest of the club leading south and up.\n\nA faint smell lingers in the hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The stairs turn sharply north as you ascend.\n\nThis is the newest addition to Pine Meadows, built to house the new spa to the west. In stark contrast to the well-lit, tan stucco walls, a dingy concrete stairwell descends to south. To the north, a rather uninspired doorway leads to the office of the club manager. The hall itself extends to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Pine Meadows's most recent addition, the spa was built during the natural beauty craze of the late nineties, when holistic was in and plastic surgery was out. Frankly, you never could understand why it was so popular. The smell of damp seaweed and aromatherapy float in from the south, where the actual spa lies. To the north and west, with a functionalism that seems out of place next to the distinctively modern architecture of the spa, are the women's and men's change facilities, respectively.\n\nThe crowning achievement of some hack designer, a desk, dominates the room, trying to give some sense of purpose to the poor soul whose job it is to man it.\n\nDesperately trying to look important, the receptionist peers down a hawkish nose at a log book, scribbling in corrections at a furious speed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "With the pool closed until summer and tennis verging on the passé, the only use the women of Pine Meadows have for this room is the lockers. The showers lie, unused, to the north.\n\nYour locker, #11, sits against the left wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the bleach in dye", "response": "With Ms. Williams's eyes covered by the cucumber slices, you make your way over to the sink and carefully pour some bleach in to the dye.\n\nJust then, the receptionist, who apparently doubles as the hairdresser with the spa's drop in popularity, comes in. \"Ready for your colouring, Ms. Williams?\"\n\n\"Of course I am, I've been waiting for hours.\" Her voice grates on you as it scrapes out past her ancient vocal cords.\n\n\"I am sorry about that, it's just we're so busy, and--.\"\n\n\"Just get on with it, you don't get paid to talk.\"\n\nWith that, the hairdresser goes about mixing the dye with some peroxide she brought with her (in addition to the liberal dousing of bleach you put in there) and puts it in Ms. Williams already fragile hair. For a few minutes it seems as though the bleach has no effect, but then, just as you're about the leave, you notice a few strands coming out in the hairdresser's hands until finally it starts coming out in goopy clumps.\n\n\"What's going on up there?\"\n\n\"Uh, ah, I don't know. I used the same proportions as always.\"\n\n\"You idiot!\" the old crone shrieks, fishing a hand through what remains of her hair. \"My hair! My hair!\"\n\nThe hairdresser apologizes profusely, leading Ms. Williams out with a towel on her head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Pine Meadows's most recent addition, the spa was built during the natural beauty craze of the late nineties, when holistic was in and plastic surgery was out. Frankly, you never could understand why it was so popular. The smell of damp seaweed and aromatherapy float in from the south, where the actual spa lies. To the north and west, with a functionalism that seems out of place next to the distinctively modern architecture of the spa, are the women's and men's change facilities, respectively.\n\nThe crowning achievement of some hack designer, a desk, dominates the room, trying to give some sense of purpose to the poor soul whose job it is to man it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "That belongs on the desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Cynthia", "response": "#18, combination 23-44-46 (if only her measurements were the same).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up beverly", "response": "Here it is. #3, combination 16-43-81. \"Anti-aging treatment, twice a week. Appointment to be verified each Monday.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up melissa", "response": "#67, combination 33-73-42. \"Problem facelift, avocado cream mask recommended.\" Hah! So much for that summer in Napa.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Williams", "response": "\"Brittle hair, only use 30 millilitres of peroxide each treatment.\" She doesn't seem to have a locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up frank", "response": "Since Frank is rarely at the club, he never bothered to get a locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Checking first to make sure no one is looking, you enter the men's change room.\n\nDespite everything you've heard about men's bath and change facilities, this room is remarkably similar to the women's one you're more familiar with. Same tiles, same lockers. In fact, if it weren't for the direction you entered through, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lockers", "response": "What is it about locked things that makes them so irresistible?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You can go only east or out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Pine Meadows's most recent addition, the spa was built during the natural beauty craze of the late nineties, when holistic was in and plastic surgery was out. Frankly, you never could understand why it was so popular. The smell of damp seaweed and aromatherapy float in from the south, where the actual spa lies. To the north and west, with a functionalism that seems out of place next to the distinctively modern architecture of the spa, are the women's and men's change facilities, respectively.\n\nThe crowning achievement of some hack designer, a desk, dominates the room, trying to give some sense of purpose to the poor soul whose job it is to man it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Charles", "response": "Here it is. #32, combination 62-34-42. \"Standing appointment each day from three o'clock to five-thirty. May be used by Mr. Burton or Scott.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Checking first to make sure no one is looking, you enter the men's change room.\n\nDespite everything you've heard about men's bath and change facilities, this room is remarkably similar to the women's one you're more familiar with. Same tiles, same lockers. In fact, if it weren't for the direction you entered through, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference.\n\nThere it is, Charles's locker, #32.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the locker", "response": "(Charles's locker)\nYou check to see you're alone and then enter 62-34-42 on the combination lock. Inside is Charles's clothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clothing", "response": "Looking at Charles's clothes baffles you. Despite being all top of the line, on Charles they look cheap and out-of-place. Some people just aren't meant to be rich.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search clothing", "response": "You begin fishing through the pockets of Charles's clothes. Just when you think you've gone through every pocket three times, you find it: the key to Charles's office. You pocket it quickly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "With the pool closed until summer and tennis verging on the passé, the only use the women of Pine Meadows have for this room is the lockers. The showers lie, unused, to the north.\n\nYou see Melissa's locker, #67, against the wall.\n\nBeverly's locker, #3, sits in the banks.\n\nCynthia's locker, #18, stands against the wall.\n\nYour locker, #11, sits against the left wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close locker", "response": "(Charles's locker)\nYou close Charles's locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open melissa", "response": "You flip the dial through 33-73-42 and the locker swings open to reveal a small bottle of pills.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pills", "response": "Ah, this takes you back. The bottle contains a number of small white pills. On the side is a label that says: \"Percodan. Highly addictive. Do not take for longer than five days or dependency may result.\" Below that is a date for several months ago and the name and phone number of one Dr. Ferguson. Curiously, the name of the patient is scratched out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pills", "response": "(putting the half-eaten salad into the Louis Vuitton bag to make room) Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close locker", "response": "Which do you mean, Melissa's locker, Beverly's locker, Cynthia's locker, your locker or the lockers?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close melissa", "response": "You close Melissa's locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open beverly", "response": "You turn the dial to 16-43-81 and here a small click as the door swings open and reveals some of Beverly's trademark clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of Percodan\na key\nsome bleach\nyour Louis Vuitton bag (which is open)\na half-eaten salad\nyour make-up\na pair of banquet tickets\nyour watch (being worn)\nyour ensemble (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close beverly", "response": "You close Beverly's locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open Cynthia", "response": "Turning the dial to 23-44-46, you hear a gentle click. The swings open to reveal a small camera sitting in the bottom of the locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take camera", "response": "(putting the bleach into the Louis Vuitton bag to make room)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the camera", "response": "It's a small, instant camera.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close Cynthia", "response": "You close Cynthia's locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in the bag", "response": "camera: Done.\nbottle of Percodan: Done.\nkey: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the camera", "response": "You flip open the small hatch on the side where the film is supposed to go. It's empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the camera in the bag", "response": "You put the camera into the Louis Vuitton bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the desk", "response": "Bending over has already gotten you in to one awkward position today.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with key", "response": "You unlock the door to Charles's office.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You open the door and walk in.\n\nYou haven't seen this room since you joined the club years ago. Frank handles all the dues, and Charles isn't your first choice among people to socialize with. The office itself seems to be a lot more luxurious than before. Maybe last time you were just distracted by the fear of your application being denied, or, more likely, Charles's perpetually tacky air just drained all the class out of the place. Either way, you have to say that now you like its bold charm, so unlike its owner.\n\nClearly the focus of the layout, a magnificently restored antique oak desk stands near the back of the room, illuminated by a spacious window overlooking the golf course. Somewhat less impressive, a wise move considering they might detract from the desk, are a row of cabinets leading from the door to the south, along the wall, to the window at the far side of the room.\n\nCharles could come back any minute. Better make it quick.\n\nOn Charles's desk is a telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "(with the key)\nThe door clicks gently as the key turns in the lock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the phone", "response": "You don't want it. Besides, there's only one jack in Pine Meadows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinets", "response": "If you want to dig up some dirt on someone, look them up by name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Cynthia", "response": "Cynthia's financial records are boring, even for accounting forms; however, towards the end, you find a health notice. Well, well, it looks like someone's allergic to peanuts.\n\nJust as you close the cabinet, you hear faint footsteps outside the door. \"Who's in there?\" You hear Charles call as he thuds on the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up beverly", "response": "What's this? A note from Beverly's mother to Charles reminding him of Beverly's fiftieth birthday that is approaching soon. Well it's about time: she's been forty-five for six years now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up cissy", "response": "Cissy's records are as bloated and boring as she is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up melissa", "response": "The cheques are made out from her husband. She may be young, but at least she knows how to work it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up roger", "response": "Roger's files list him as the primary shareholder of the club, giving him the ability to make membership decisions completely at his own discretion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up frank", "response": "Hmm, what's this? The account Frank has been using to pay for dues isn't anyone that you recognize. How dare he? A marriage is supposed to be about trust!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Charles", "response": "Eighty thousand dollars a year. Well now you see why it costs three dollars for a glass of Perrier.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Williams", "response": "Ms. Williams's cheques go back to the fifties, when the club first opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The window provides a wonderful view of the golf course. In fact, from up here, you can barely see how ill-kept the green is or how polluted the water.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Clearly the focus of the layout, a magnificently restored antique oak desk stands near the back of the room, illuminated by a spacious window overlooking the golf course. Somewhat less impressive, a wise move considering they might detract from the desk, are a row of cabinets leading from the door to the south, along the wall, to the window at the far side of the room.\n\nOn Charles's desk is a telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "Absolutely gorgeous and without a scratch on it. Which is to be expected, seeing as very little work actually gets done at it. Most members have their banks automatically pay their dues for them and since country clubs have declined in popularity recently, new members are few and far between. Why Charles would have been granted a new desk is beyond you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine phone", "response": "With rules against cell phones and a desire for leaving the outside world outside, this is the only phone at Pine Meadows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide under the desk", "response": "You try crawling under the desk, but figure that if Charles does come in, your face will be where only cater-waiters and hustlers have been before. Then, you climb on top of the cabinets, but realize that Charles isn't quite that short. Finally, you try hiding behind a pencil, but you have a few more months on your diet before you can pull that off. Dejected, you go about finding a better way to avoid getting caught.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "You open the office window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb out the window", "response": "As soon as your head ducks below the windowsill, you hear Charles (obviously with some assistance) break open the door and shriek: \"The window, they've gone out the window!\"\n\nQuickly, you begin to climb down the trellis, careful not to get your heels snagged in the ivy. However, you're more adept at navigating a concrete jungle than a real one, and soon one of your pumps gets caught on a particularly nasty weed. You kick wildly for a few moments, but it's to no avail; you lose your balance and tumble in to the bushes below, dragging the wreckage of the trellis with you.\n\nBehind the club (in the thorn bushes)\nOw! While the bushes cushion your fall, preventing any serious damage, their thorns still manage to tear at your clothes and cling at your hair. As you pluck the spikes from your face, you hear Charles screaming from the window above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "You get out of the thorn bushes.\n\nYours are probably the first feet to tread here since the trellis was installed. The bushes have none of the carefully manicured branches or unnaturally bright flowers of their cousins in the garden. Instead, they are twisted with many sharp little thorns. They thin a little to the southwest.\n\nWithout the cover of the bushes, Charles easily sees you. The criminal charges are no big deal, but being seen by the whole club being pulled from the bushes by the police is almost too much to bear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na key (which opens the broken door)\nyour Louis Vuitton bag (which is open)\na camera\na bottle of Percodan\nsome bleach\na half-eaten salad\nyour make-up\na pair of banquet tickets\nyour watch (being worn)\nyour ensemble (being worn)\n\n\"Can you see them?\" You hear a voice ask from above.\n\n\"No, they're in the bushes,\" Charles replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Although the thorns continue to poke in to your soft skin, you decide you'd rather put up with that for a few minutes than let Charles see you.\n\n\"Well is there any more you want me to do?\"\n\n\"Nah, go back to the whirlpool, I'll take care of things here.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Although the thorns continue to poke in to your soft skin, you decide you'd rather put up with that for a few minutes than let Charles see you.\n\n\"That's it! I'm going to call the police,\" you hear Charles call to you from above. At least he's gone from the window now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "You get out of the thorn bushes.\n\nYours are probably the first feet to tread here since the trellis was installed. The bushes have none of the carefully manicured branches or unnaturally bright flowers of their cousins in the garden. Instead, they are twisted with many sharp little thorns. They thin a little to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the thorns", "response": "Although the same kind grow in the garden in front of the club, those ones are kept in check with meticulous grooming. These, without a gardener to tend to them, have grown wildly, as if making up for the complacency of their sisters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trellis", "response": "The trellis lies in a mangled heap at the base of the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "You battle your way through the underbrush for what must literally be minutes until you arrive in the garden.\n\nBeing this far out in the country, the garden is really the only place at Pine Meadows where nature exists, yet isn't out of control. The topiary is subtle, no garish animals or ambitious creations. Flowers line the drive to the south, down which the valet service lies. A path, hedged with rose bushes, curves round the club to the northeast, and the club itself lies to the north.\n\nMelissa continues to read her book.\n\n\"My, my. First the basement, now the bushes? Ever heard of a bed?\" Melissa says, smirking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "The fall took its toll on your appearance. Your skirt was ripped, but you managed to capitalize on that by tearing it a little more and turning it in to a fashionable slit. Although you tried, you failed to get all the twigs and thorns out of your hair. Still, you look a lot better than most of the people around here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ensemble", "response": "It's tragic really, the damage done by the fall. Oh well, these clothes were two weeks old; it's about time they were replaced.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "If you leave the club without getting that film you'll be ruined.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open your locker", "response": "38 left, 24 right, 34 left, just like your measurements. Inside is a change of clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clothes", "response": "Although those bushes took their toll, the worst might be yet to come. You should probably save these clothes for the banquet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close locker", "response": "Which do you mean, Melissa's locker, Beverly's locker, Cynthia's locker, your locker or the lockers?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close your locker", "response": "You close your locker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the makeup", "response": "Sometimes less is more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Just two years ago, this place would have been packed at this time of day. Now hardly anyone comes in here, and you can hardly blame them. It feels more like some hellish jungle than a spa. The smell is subtle but gnaws at you nonetheless. A bed of rocks, heated to drive up sweat and drive out impurities, gives the room a heavy, fevered feeling, making you wonder why they even bothered considering there is already a whirlpool to the south. For those club members who have given up on trying to hide the fact that they dye their hair, a hairdresser's station sits to one side, from which you have a clear view of the lobby and its desk to the north. And all this set to some \"Sounds of Nature\" CD.\n\nStrands of gray hair form a trail through the spa, left after you gave Ms. Williams the Sinéad O'Conner look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You open the door and walk in.\n\nCramped and humid, the whirlpool room is dominated by a large tub of bubbling water. The steam coming from it is almost unbearable; it flattens your hair and clings to your skin. Even worse, there seems to be no ventilation other than from the door to the north, beside which is a row of hooks for hanging clothes.\n\nA young man reclines in the pool, naked.\n\nSome clothes hang on one of the hooks.\n\nThe man sits up with a start but does nothing to conceal his nudity. \"Who the hell are you?\" he demands. Without waiting for a reply, he lies back. \"Nevermind. I don't care. Charles said I could stay here all afternoon, so fuck off.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "With his bleached hair and chiseled features, this guy looks like he stepped right out of Honcho.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine clothes", "response": "My God! A poly-cotton blend in this place? What is Pine Meadows coming to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search clothes", "response": "\"Hey, cut that out!\" You ignore him but find nothing of interest anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the clothes", "response": "(first taking the clothes)\n\"Hey, what are you doing? I need those,\" the man cries.\n\nYou ignore him and take the clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the whirlpool", "response": "Which do you mean, the door to the spa or the whirlpool?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "\"Listen!\" you hiss, holding the clothes out of the young man's reach. \"Either you tell me what I want to know or I walk out with these clothes right now.\"\n\n\"What? You're crazy!\"\n\n\"Am I?\" You walk towards the door.\n\n\"Ok, wait, wait. Alright, what do you want to know?\"\n\n\"Well, who the hell you are, for starters.\"\n\n\"Ok, I'm Scott. Charles's new 'assistant.' I'd shake your hand, but I'm a little indisposed at the moment.\"\n\n\"I'll let it slide,\" you say, politely averting your eyes. \"Do you always bathe naked with your employers?\"\n\n\"Bathe naked, sleep naked, play Parcheesi naked,\" he shrugs his shoulders. \"Whatever they pay me for. It's all the same to me.\"\n\nYou knew it. Charles was always a little well-manicured, even for Pine Meadows. \"So he pays you for your services?\"\n\n\"Of course, you have seen him, haven't you?\" The two of you share a collective shudder.\n\n\"Alright, that's enough.\" Satisfied you have enough information, you hang his clothes back on the hooks.\n\n\"Anytime.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You open the door and walk in.\n\nClearly the focus of the layout, a magnificently restored antique oak desk stands near the back of the room, illuminated by a spacious window overlooking the golf course. Somewhat less impressive, a wise move considering they might detract from the desk, are a row of cabinets leading from the door to the south, along the wall, to the window at the far side of the room.\n\nCharles sits at his desk, pushing some papers around to at least give the impression that he's worth the money the club pays him.\n\nOn Charles's desk is a telephone.\n\n\"Julia!\" Charles says nasally. \"So good to see you. Can I help you with anything?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Charles about Scott", "response": "\"So I was talking to Scott, and he had some of the most interesting things to say.\"\n\n\"Um, ah.\" Charles tugs at his bow tie. \"I don't know what you're talking about.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blackmail charles with Scott", "response": "\"My, my Charles, you look absolutely flushed. Have you been in the whirlpool?\" you ask gently.\n\n\"Well, yes I have, Julia.\" --his cheeks get a little redder-- \"It's marvelous. You really must try it sometime.\"\n\n\"Were you in for long? I saw the door and it said you were signed up for the whole afternoon. I'm only asking because prolonged exposure can be terrible for the skin, let alone the health.\" Your lips pout out a little with feigned concern.\n\n\"Um, well, I was only in for an hour or so, I'm letting my assistant use the rest of my time.\" Charles tugs a little at his bow tie.\n\n\"Oh, so you finally found someone to work 'under' you?\" you ask, your emphasis almost tacky.\n\n\"Yes, his name's Scott. He's worth every penny the club pays him.\"\n\n\"Oh yes, Scott. I spoke to him.\" Charles face drops. \"He has some very interesting things to say.\"\n\nCharles face glistens with sweat. \"Please, Julia. Don't tell anyone, I'll give you anything you want.\" He pleads.\n\n\"Alright, let me in to those cabinets and let me use your phone.\"\n\n\"But that is-\"\n\n\"Or I could just go talk to Mr. Knowles.\"\n\n\"Ok, ok. Just as long as you don't tell anyone I let you,\" Charles says resignedly and goes back to working on his papers, even less believably than before.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the doctor", "response": "Suspicious about those pills, you call up doctor Ferguson.\n\n\"Hi, Dr. Ferguson. This is Angie from Dr. Leeds office,\" you say in as nasal a voice as you can muster. \"I'm calling in regards to a patient of yours, one Melissa Stratham.\"\n\n\"Yes, what can I do for you?\" he asks, more than a little perturbed to be disturbed.\n\n\"Well, Mrs. Stratham told us that you gave her a prescription for Percodan to be renewed indefinitely and--\"\n\n\"What? She's still taking them? They're highly addictive!\" he says with concern, more likely from fear of malpractice than genuine compassion.\n\n\"Alright, Dr. Ferguson. I'll notify Betty Ford right away.\"\n\nWith that, you hang up the phone and ignore Charles's odd looks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Knowles", "response": "Roger's files list him as the primary shareholder of the club, giving him the ability to make membership decisions completely at his own discretion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Charles about the banquet", "response": "\"Please, Julia. I've let you look at the records, isn't that enough?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Being this far out in the country, the garden is really the only place at Pine Meadows where nature exists, yet isn't out of control. The topiary is subtle, no garish animals or ambitious creations. Flowers line the drive to the south, down which the valet service lies. A path, hedged with rose bushes, curves round the club to the northeast, and the club itself lies to the north.\n\nGetting to a particularly steamy passage, Melissa fans her neck vigorously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about the pills", "response": "You tell Melissa about your little conversation with Dr. Ferguson.\n\n\"So they're mine. No one but the most backwards fossil would care about my little indulgence.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blackmail melissa with pills", "response": "You tell Melissa about your conversation with Dr. Ferguson.\n\n\"Oh, please. This is the new millenium. Who cares if I indulge in a little Percodan now and then?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blackmail melissa with addiction", "response": "\"Now why would that scare me?\" Melissa says, and returns to her book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show pills to Melissa", "response": "(first taking the bottle of Percodan)\nYou tell Melissa about your little conversation with Dr. Ferguson.\n\n\"So they're mine. No one but the most backwards fossil would care about my little indulgence.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about husband", "response": "\"So where is your husband, anyway?\"\n\n\"He's gone to London for business until the end of the month. It's like I never get to see him any more. How is a girl supposed to stay faithful?\" --she glances at you-- \"Well I guess I'm asking the wrong person.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Melissa about Roger", "response": "\"So what do you know of Roger Knowles?\"\n\n\"Ugh,\" she says, wrinkling her nose, \"that man is an ogre.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Serving as little more than a junction, the path here leads from the garden in the southwest to the outside dining area in the north and northeast. The club itself lies to the west and the tennis court to the east. To the southeast is the pool, but it is closed for the season.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "As if you never left, Cissy starts back on her photos.\n\nOutside dining (next to the kitchen)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. However, despite all that, the outside dining offered by Pine Meadows is really the only thing that interests you at the club. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nThe waiter takes a sip from one of the finished drinks and seems to calm down a bit.\n\nCissy stands here in all her fuchsia splendour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "\"You're not leaving already are you?\" Cissy asks, lips pouted. \"Oh well, you must come back to see the rest of my photos soon.\"\n\nOutside dining (next to the Pro Shop)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. However, despite all that, the outside dining offered by Pine Meadows is really the only thing that interests you at the club. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA group of women sit here playing bridge and chatting.\n\nCynthia waits impatiently for her meal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Cynthia about the pills", "response": "\"What do you think of Percodan?\"\n\n\"I haven't done it in years. Oh, well that explains how you're able to let Frank touch you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Cynthia about Charles", "response": "\"What do you think of Charles?\"\n\n\"Really, Julia. The only thing worse than being a bore is talking about one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "\"Aww, leaving so soon? Well we must do this again sometime,\" Cynthia calls out after you.\nAs if you never left, Cissy starts back on her photos.\n\nOutside dining (next to the kitchen)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. However, despite all that, the outside dining offered by Pine Meadows is really the only thing that interests you at the club. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA waiter bustles about frantically, trying desperately to keep up with drink orders from demanding patrons.\n\nCissy stands here in all her fuchsia splendour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the waiter", "response": "Tuxedoes aren't active wear, and the waiter exemplifies perfectly why this is so. His cummerbund prevents him from turning his waist; his whole ensemble clings to him with sweat. In fact, his bow tie seems so tight that his eyes bug out and his face is flushed.\n\nCissy continues to prattle on about her oh so fascinating life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the waiter for the peanuts", "response": "\"I'm sorry, Mrs. Hawthorne, but we don't serve peanuts here. There might be some sauce in the kitchen though.\"\n\nCissy tells you about another 'famous' relative's accomplishments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You order the drink", "response": "\"Here you go, Mrs. Hawthorne,\" he says, handing you a glass of wine, his experience such that barely a ripple passes across its surface.\n\nCissy continues to prattle on about her oh so fascinating life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You spill the wine on Cissy", "response": "Pretending to catch your heel on a crack, you launch yourself forward towards Cissy, spilling the deep, red wine over her clothes.\n\n\"My clothes!\" she cries, trying desperately to sop up the rapidly setting wine. \"This was a gift from my husband.\" You guess he bought it as a not so subtle hint.\n\n\"Don't worry Cissy, a little club soda and that will come right out.\" A lie, sure, but you have to stop her from sobbing somehow. Besides, you did her a favour, that monstrosity wasn't helping anyone.\n\nWhen Cissy sees that nothing she can do here will stop the stain, she begins to walk out. \"Oh dear, guess I'll go home to change. I'll see you at the banquet tonight. Ciao.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "For all the years you've been a member of Pine Meadows, you've never had a reason to visit the kitchen before today. And you are thankful for that. If you had been here years ago you certainly wouldn't have been so quick to eat the food. Gray slabs of meat lie along the counters and hang from cupboards; enormous pots, some empty, some full, sit on stoves. All this under a barrage of pedestrian smells that assault your nose. A set of large, locked doors lead west to the banquet hall and a smaller opening on the opposite wall leads back out to the dining area.\n\nAmongst the many exotic dishes, you see a steaming plate of Coquille Saint Jacques.\n\nWhen he thinks you aren't looking, one of the cooks spits in to a steaming plate of something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboards", "response": "The cooks look at you suspiciously but say nothing. You're well known among the kitchen staff for your temper. The cupboards are packed with a bewildering array of foodstuffs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the cupboards", "response": "Here we go, Thai peanut sauce. You slip it in to your pocket while the cooks aren't looking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sauce on the Coquille", "response": "\"Please, Mrs. Hawthorne,\" says one of the cooks, \"leave the food to us.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cook", "response": "Harried and hurried, the cooks rush about the kitchen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pots", "response": "Balanced on the stove, several pots stand dangerously close to falling over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sauce on the Coquille", "response": "With the cooks distracted, you sneak the peanut sauce in to Cynthia's food and discard the bottle.\n\nApparently you made quite a mess. The cooks are still cleaning it up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Outside dining (next to the kitchen)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA waiter bustles about frantically, trying desperately to keep up with drink orders from demanding patrons.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Outside dining (next to the Pro Shop)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA group of women sit here playing bridge and chatting.\n\nYou arrive just as Cynthia sits down to eat her Coquille Saint-Jacques. Your glee can barely be contained as she raises a slimy piece of shellfish to her lips and delicately nibbles at it.\n\nA few minutes pass while Cynthia eats her meal and when she is done, she finishes it off with a delicate licking of her lips. That's when she notices what you have been seeing the whole time. Her lips, reacting furiously to the peanut sauce, have begun to swell, ballooning up to twice their regular size with no sign of stopping.\n\n\"Myb bwips, bwat's bappebing?\" she blubbers. Oh well, at least she won't need that collagen anymore.\n\nSoon the paramedics arrive to take her away from the crowd of gawking club members and elated waiters, leaving you to resume your business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Outside dining (next to the Pro Shop)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA group of women sit here playing bridge and chatting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "You walk down the paved path until you come to the Pro Shop.\n\nSince Pine Meadows instituted the policy of allowing day memberships, the shop has been enjoying a lot more business. Well, enjoying is probably the wrong word. The only people who frequent the shop are amateur social climbers trying to impress clients or lonely housewives eager to get a little attention from Keith. Luckily, none of them seem to be around, leaving you to see how cramped the shop actually is. All manner of rackets, clubs, and balls crowd the walls; an obtrusive counter divides the room arbitrarily, and to the north a door leads to the driving range, too small to open up the place at all.\n\nKeith smiles up at you as you enter.\n\n\"Hey babe, good to see ya,\" Keith says, smiling. \"I was beginning to think you might not make it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Keith", "response": "Tall, well-muscled, and the most sexually virile man you've ever known, Keith rubs his hand across his chest absently when he catches you looking at him. You suppress a shudder and involuntarily lick your lips.\n\n\"You better be careful with those around Mr. Knowles,\" Keith says, glancing at the pills and jerking his thumb towards the driving range. \"He's in a huff ever since he found out about his grandson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell keith", "response": "Whatever smell is there is overpowered by your characteristic fragrance: Self-Obsession, by Calvin Klone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Keith about the photo", "response": "\"Listen, Keith, someone was in the access hall while we were in the closet and they took a photo.\"\n\n\"You mean someone took a picture of us while we were fucking?\" You cringe at his vulgarity. \"Shit, what are we going to do?\"\n\n\"Don't worry, I'll take care of it,\" you say, hoping it's not a lie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Keith about Frank", "response": "\"About Frank...\"\n\n\"Why don't you leave him already? Then we could finally be together. Just don't tell him about us, he'd ruin me.\" With that, he leans forward dramatically. \"I could give you the moon.\"\n\nNo, what he could give you would be more painfully trite lines like that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Keith about Charles", "response": "\"What do you think of Charles?\"\n\n\"That guy freaks me out. Always brushing up against me and stuff.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Keith about Scott", "response": "\"Sorry, babe. I don't know nothing about that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "With the banquet just a few hours away, most people aren't willing to work up a sweat. As such, the driving range is all but uninhabited. While most of the course is just grass, the range has concrete walks, sparing you from the torture that is walking on grass in heels. The Pro Shop lies to the south.\n\nRoger Knowles, a man who puts the 'old' in old money, stands here, occasionally hitting a ball off in to the green.\n\n\"Oh, Julia, it's you,\" Roger says, looking up. As he returns his concentration to the game, he continues, \"What do you want?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Roger about pills", "response": "You carefully feel Roger out about drugs.\n\n\"Damn junkies,\" he spits, \"they're ruining this country and this club. I will not have those people at Pine Meadows.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Roger about Melissa", "response": "You better not, blackmail only works if you haven't actually revealed the information.\n\nRoger sights up and smacks a ball clear across the green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Roger", "response": "While Pine Meadows's members have never been known for their progressive politics, Roger Knowles is considered a little old-fashioned even here. You'd be wise to watch your step around him; he's never liked you and, being a primary shareholder of the club, is likely to expel you should you disturb him too much.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Roger about Frank", "response": "\"Julia, I have no need of your gossip.\"\n\nRoger sights up and smacks a ball clear across the green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Since Pine Meadows instituted the policy of allowing day memberships, the shop has been enjoying a lot more business. Well, enjoying is probably the wrong word. The only people who frequent the shop are amateur social climbers trying to impress clients or lonely housewives eager to get a little attention from Keith. Luckily, none of them seem to be around, leaving you to see how cramped the shop actually is. All manner of rackets, clubs, and balls crowd the walls; an obtrusive counter divides the room arbitrarily, and to the north a door leads to the driving range, too small to open up the place at all.\n\nKeith paces back and forth, absentmindedly fiddling with things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Outside dining (next to the Pro Shop)\nThis is what it's all about: stale food and staler gossip. The tables are full; the place is busy. The members don't seem to be eating all that much though, no doubt saving their appetites for the banquet tonight. To the west is the server's entrance to the kitchen where all manner of food is prepared. The dining area extends to the east, and to the south and southeast are the garden path and tennis court respectively.\n\nA group of women sit here playing bridge and chatting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Since tennis became passé, this court is mainly used by those few members who actually enjoy the game. In fact, due to the reduced use, the club has even begun letting non-members play on it. You've never been that fond of tennis and with the rabble about, you're loath to even stay on the court. Hardly a big loss. The net droops, the benches are peeling, and the rubber floor sticks to your pumps. Although you are fenced in on most sides, thankfully, you can still leave to the more agreeable outside dining areas to the northwest and north, or the garden path to the west.\n\nBeverly hops from foot to foot, waiting for a ball to come out of a serving machine at the other end of the court.\n\nBeverly smacks a ball across the court.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Serving as little more than a junction, the path here leads from the garden in the southwest to the outside dining area in the north and northeast. The club itself lies to the west and the tennis court to the east. To the southeast is the pool, but it is closed for the season.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blackmail melissa about pills", "response": "\"Oh, Melissa,\" you say, smiling, \"I was just talking to Roger Knowles, you know, primary shareholder of the club, the man with the power to make or break? Well, he had some of the most interesting things to say about, how did he put it, oh yes, 'junkies.' I just thought you might--\"\n\n\"Cut the crap, Julia, what do you want?\" she says, her boldness replaced by anger.\n\n\"Now, now. No need for such language,\" you say, enjoying your moment. \"Just give me the film and no one need know your dirty little secret.\"\n\n\"Fine, take it,\" she says, pulling a roll of film from her handbag and tossing it at you. With that, she stomps off from the garden. However, as she does, she calls back to you, a hint of satisfaction in her voice. \"But if you want the photo itself, you might want to talk to the person who's behind all this.\"\n\n\"Who?\" you ask, painfully aware of how little time is left until the banquet.\n\n\"Who do you think? Who stands to gain the most by you and Frank splitting up? Besides Frank of course.\" And with that, she's gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the film", "response": "Here it is: the film. Now you just need to get your hands on that photo and this whole mess will be over.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Being this far out in the country, the garden is really the only place at Pine Meadows where nature exists, yet isn't out of control. The topiary is subtle, no garish animals or ambitious creations. Flowers line the drive to the south, down which the valet service lies. A path, hedged with rose bushes, curves round the club to the northeast, and the club itself lies to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Since tennis became passé, this court is mainly used by those few members who actually enjoy the game. In fact, due to the reduced use, the club has even begun letting non-members play on it. You've never been that fond of tennis and with the rabble about, you're loath to even stay on the court. Hardly a big loss. The net droops, the benches are peeling, and the rubber floor sticks to your pumps. Although you are fenced in on most sides, thankfully, you can still leave to the more agreeable outside dining areas to the northwest and north, or the garden path to the west.\n\nBeverly hops from foot to foot, waiting for a ball to come out of a serving machine at the other end of the court.\n\nIn a strangely crude move, Beverly shifts her bra uncomfortably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the film to bevely", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the film to Beverly", "response": "\"I guess this is what you're after,\" Beverly says, fishing in to her shirt and pulling out a photo. \"Sorry about all I've put you through today, it's just I couldn't afford to let you know I had it until the banquet. You've proved quite resourceful so far. Who knows? Had you known it were me from the start, you might have just been able to stop me.\" She puts the photo back in her blouse. \"Really, Julia, Frank and all his money deserve to be with someone a little more faithful than you. And once he sees this photo he'll realize who that is. Men are so easy to bend when vulnerable, don't you agree?\"\n\n\"Oh well,\" she says, turning off the machine and wiping the sweat from her brow. As she does, Beverly glances at her watch. \"My, my. Look at the time. I must be getting ready for the banquet. Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you. I talked to Charles and told him about how it had been so long since I had seen Frank and he was more than willing to seat us all together. Isn't that wonderful?\"\n\n\"See you there,\" she says, throwing her purse over her shoulder and walking off.\n\nBeverly was right, the banquet is almost starting, which means Frank will be arriving soon. You run as fast as you can without breaking a sweat to the bathroom, toss your stuff in your locker, and go about making yourself look as presentable as possible. Quickly, you get the extra clothes from your locker, put them on, and go about fixing your makeup. Within twenty minutes (a Pine Meadows record) you are ready and speed your way to the banquet hall, drawing more than a little bit of attention: running is as rare as running shoes amongst these people.\n\nLuckily, your speed pays off and you get to the banquet just in time. Frank is just arriving and Beverly is nowhere to be seen, apparently your tampering with her clothes slowed her down long enough. Just as the doors open, Beverly comes racing down the hall with a sweater tied around her waist, casting you a dirty look as she does. With that, you are all ushered in to the hall.\n\nBanquet hall (at your table)\nWell, here you are, seated at a table in what amounts to the most horrifically uncomfortable chair you have ever been upon. An ostentatious centerpiece, surrounded by candles with a program leaning against it, sits in the middle of the table, its baby's breath bouncing perilously close to the flames. All around you, the din of diners talking, plates clunking, and air-conditioners whirring, fade in to the background, allowing you to concentrate on the problem at hand.\n\nFrank sits to one side, gazing fondly at you.\n\nBeverly eyes you suspiciously and pulls her purse a little closer.\n\nYou nervously flip the menu over in your hands, absent-mindedly pretending to read.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the menu", "response": "The situation is enough to make you lose your appetite. And if it weren't, having seen the kitchen earlier certainly would.\n\nBeverly takes a sip of her drink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na menu\na change of clothes (being worn)\nyour Louis Vuitton bag (which is open)\nyour make-up\nyour watch (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the candle", "response": "I guess Charles thinks that if the banquet is lit with these, people won't be able to see how tacky the whole thing is.\n\nFrank sips at his drink nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at centerpiece", "response": "Egad, from a cursory glance, the centerpiece appeared to be fresh-cut flowers, but on closer inspection, it's plastic! You knew this place was going down hill, but plastic?\n\nGlancing up towards the stage, you see Charles preparing the podium for the speakers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn menu", "response": "Trying to make it look as accidental as possible, you put the menu in to the flame. Within seconds it is flaring away, causing quite a scene.\n\n\"Your menu!\" Frank shouts, jumping to his feet, surprisingly gallant. Quickly, he grabs one of the glasses from the table and dashes water over the burgeoning fire. It goes out with a hiss, leaving a puddle of ashy water and charred paper. \"That was close,\" he wheezes, wiping the sweat from his forehead.\n\n\"Yes, a little too close,\" Beverly mutters, eyeing you suspiciously and moving her purse beneath her chair.\n\nA team of waiters, hitherto immobilized with shock, move in to action. Within a few moments, the table is restored and people start getting back to waiting for their meals and gossiping amongst themselves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the chair", "response": "Bending over has already gotten you in to one awkward position today.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn program", "response": "Better not, you already look like enough of a pyro.\n\nSuddenly, from the stage, the ceiling, and behind, speakers screech to life. \"Testing.\" Charles voice sounds out from all corners of the room, a good deal less servile when pumped out at a hundred and ten decibels.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You burn beverly", "response": "Better not, you already look like enough of a pyro.\n\n\"Now, to say a few words before the banquet, here's Julia Hawthorne, this year's philanthropist of the year,\" Charles says, gesturing to you with a wide sweep of his hand while an enormous circle of light falls on you from a spotlight above. \"Let's give her a hand, everybody!\" A round of applause ensues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou have no other choice. The time for action is over. Dejected, you make your way to the stage, hoping that Beverly chooses to prolong your anxiety for awhile longer and not show Frank the photo. Of course, hope is all you can do.\n\nWhen you reach the stage, you cast a glance towards your table, just long enough to see Beverly showing something to Frank. As you begin your speech, Frank leaves the table, and your life, forever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nBeverly takes a sip of her drink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nFrank sips at his drink nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Frank", "response": "Looking at Frank, you wonder what ever attracted you to him in the first place. His skin is pale, his hair is limp, his body is flabby, and his clothes are outdated. Then you glance down at the bulge in his pants and remember: it was the size of his wallet.\n\nGlancing up towards the stage, you see Charles preparing the podium for the speakers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spill drink", "response": "What do you want to spill the drinks in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine beverly", "response": "For all her bravado on the tennis court, Beverly seems to be a tad nervous. It's a lot easier to threaten to cause a scene and ruin a marriage than to actually do so. But if she's held on this long, there's no way she'll bow out now. In fact, you can see her hand dangling below the table, ready to fish out the photo from her purse at any moment.\n\nFrank gulps down the rest of his drink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the drink", "response": "You don't want to anger either of them.\n\nDraining her glass, Beverly licks the rim with relish. She always was a bit of a lush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the candle", "response": "I guess Charles thinks that if the banquet is lit with these, people won't be able to see how tacky the whole thing is.\n\n\"Here, Beverly, let me get that for you,\" Frank says, taking the empty glasses and calling over the waiter.\n\n\"Oh, Frank. You're such a gentleman. How does Julia ever keep her hands off of you?\" she says, handing him her glass.\n\nFrank chuckles. He always does that when he's nervous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine menu", "response": "The situation is enough to make you lose your appetite. And if it weren't, having seen the kitchen earlier certainly would.\n\nA waiter comes by and removes the empty glasses, ignoring all requests for new drinks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Me me me me!\n\nSuddenly, from the stage, the ceiling, and behind, speakers screech to life. \"Testing.\" Charles voice sounds out from all corners of the room, a good deal less servile when pumped out at a hundred and ten decibels.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Now, to say a few words before the banquet, here's Julia Hawthorne, this year's philanthropist of the year,\" Charles says, gesturing to you with a wide sweep of his hand while an enormous circle of light falls on you from a spotlight above. \"Let's give her a hand, everybody!\" A round of applause ensues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn menu", "response": "Trying to make it look as accidental as possible, you put the menu in to the flame. At first, no one notices the small flame, and by the time they do, it's too late for them to do anything.\n\n\"Your menu!\" Frank shrieks, pointing frantically and lurching back from the table. His foot catches on the leg of his chair, and he is sent sprawling in to a dessert cart. Another time and you might have found that funny, but you've had your fill of schadenfreude for today.\n\nBeverly, for once losing her icy composure, scrabbles away from the table as fast as she can.\n\nThe fire begins to spread.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the photo", "response": "With everyone distracted by the raging fire, you grab the photo. Damn it's hot.\n\nThe fire spreads to the centrepiece, the cheap plastic leaves curling and spouting out plumes of foul-smelling smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn photo", "response": "With a rather dramatic flourish (hey, you deserve it) you crumple up the photo and toss it in to the fire. As it burns, so does Beverly's hope of destroying your marriage. Not that she stops trying, though. Frank tells you later that week about a phone call from her, but without any proof, his blind adoration of you wins out over suspicion.\n\nThe fire that resulted during the banquet ended up destroying a good portion of the building. Good riddance, you say, the club was past its prime and it was more fitting that it go out with flare rather than dwindle away to mediocrity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nBeverly takes a sip of her drink.\nTime passes.\nTime passes.\n\nFrank sips at his drink nervously.\nTime passes.\n\nGlancing up towards the stage, you see Charles preparing the podium for the speakers.\nTime passes.\nTime passes.\n\nFrank gulps down the rest of his drink.\nTime passes.\n\nDraining her glass, Beverly licks the rim with relish. She always was a bit of a lush.\nTime passes.\n\n\"Here, Beverly, let me get that for you,\" Frank says, taking the empty glasses and calling over the waiter.\n\n\"Oh, Frank. You're such a gentleman. How does Julia ever keep her hands off of you?\" she says, handing him her glass.\n\nFrank chuckles. He always does that when he's nervous.\nTime passes.\n\nA waiter comes by and removes the empty glasses, ignoring all requests for new drinks.\nTime passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\nTime passes.\nTime passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nSuddenly, from the stage, the ceiling, and behind, speakers screech to life. \"Testing.\" Charles voice sounds out from all corners of the room, a good deal less servile when pumped out at a hundred and ten decibels. Time passes.\n\n\"Now, to say a few words before the banquet, here's Julia Hawthorne, this year's philanthropist of the year,\" Charles says, gesturing to you with a wide sweep of his hand while an enormous circle of light falls on you from a spotlight above. \"Let's give her a hand, everybody!\" A round of applause ensues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn menu", "response": "Trying to make it look as accidental as possible, you put the menu in to the flame. At first, no one notices the small flame, and by the time they do, it's too late for them to do anything.\n\n\"Your menu!\" Frank shrieks, pointing frantically and lurching back from the table. His foot catches on the leg of his chair, and he is sent sprawling in to a dessert cart. Another time and you might have found that funny, but you've had your fill of schadenfreude for today.\n\nBeverly, for once losing her icy composure, scrabbles away from the table as fast as she can.\n\nThe fire begins to spread.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe fire spreads to the centrepiece, the cheap plastic leaves curling and spouting out plumes of foul-smelling smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe flames web across the tablecloth, scorching the table underneath and sending waves of heat in to your face. You feel your nose soften. Dr. Rickers said it would take at least twice this much heat; that son of a bitch is so sued.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe fire licks at the table, sending out smoke that makes your head swim.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe table collapses in to a pile of flaming kindling, sending a scent reminiscent of your trip upstate in to the air.\n\nAll the smoke finally gets to you. Your mind clouds over for a moment, and your knees buckle from under you. The last thing you remember is pitching headlong in to the fire.\n\nWhen you awaken a few days later, you learn that Frank never saw the photo. But your satisfaction is short lived. With all the scars on your face, that's probably the last photo in which you looked decent. Well maybe not decent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Frank about Keith", "response": "First casting a defiant look at Beverly, you turn to Frank, take his hand in yours, and pinch your thigh to get some authentic tears flowing.\n\n\"Frank, I have to tell you something...\"\n\nAfter what seems like hours of tears, pleads, and yells, things finally settle down. It's over. Not that it's the worst loss or anything, you just wish you hadn't signed that pre-nupt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss beverly", "response": "Ahh, convince Frank you're a complete nympho by kissing Beverly and then maybe he won't consider your affair an act of betrayal and instead carry you off to the sexual-dysfunction clinic in his arms and you'll all live happily ever after, is that your plan? Dream on.\n\nBeverly takes a sip of her drink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss frank", "response": "You haven't kissed him in months. To do so now might raise suspicion, and something else you're not too fond of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss beverly", "response": "Ahh, convince Frank you're a complete nympho by kissing Beverly and then maybe he won't consider your affair an act of betrayal and instead carry you off to the sexual-dysfunction clinic in his arms and you'll all live happily ever after, is that your plan? Dream on.\n\nFrank sips at his drink nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na menu\na change of clothes (being worn)\nyour Louis Vuitton bag (which is open)\nyour make-up\nyour watch (being worn)\n\nGlancing up towards the stage, you see Charles preparing the podium for the speakers.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Clearly the focus of the layout, a magnificently restored antique oak desk stands near the back of the room, illuminated by a spacious window overlooking the golf course. Somewhat less impressive, a wise move considering they might detract from the desk, are a row of cabinets leading from the door to the south, along the wall, to the window at the far side of the room.\n\nOn Charles's desk is a telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the salad", "response": "(first taking the half-eaten salad)\nIf you wanted to put something limp and wilted in your mouth... Ok, that one's a little dirty even for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swing", "response": "What do you want to swing?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swing frank", "response": "If only Frank were in to that.\n\nBeverly takes a sip of her drink.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Superhero" ]

[ "built-in hints", "Colossal Cash Prize", "cover art", "IFComp 2018", "IFComp Game", "Inform 7", "parser", "superhero", "time travel", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2018" ]

[ 1, 9, 9, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It all happens so fast, once you get to the abandoned theme park. There you are, surrounded by the greatest battle the world has ever seen between hero and villain, diligently taking notes for your latest research paper. That's when you spot the nuclear airship, sinking in the air and billowing smoke.\n\nImmediately recognizing the danger of nuclear explosion, you dive into the basement of a ruined aquarium attraction. But the blast never comes, and now you hear perfect silence from outside. Something strange has happened.\n\nThis lead-lined basement is insulated from all outside sights and sounds. It looks like an old fallout shelter.\n\nYou've found the most isolated room in the theme park, which, given its history, is saying a lot. A discarded desk and an old stool are the only pieces of furniture left.\n\nYou can go up to the aquarium.\n\nA dried-out old fountain pen lies on the ground.\n\nYour extensively annotated notebook on superheroes and their powers is here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Justine Thyme. While most of your time is spent getting straight A's in high school or studying up on superheroes, you also have been conducting research on Einstein's recent breakthroughs in Time and Space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pen and the notebook", "response": "dry fountain pen: Taken.\nweathered notebook: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine notebook", "response": "In your months of research, you've compiled notes on over a dozen superheroes and their abilities. You can LOOK UP a superhero to learn more about them.\n\nThe front page contains the following motto, underlined a dozen times: A TRUE HERO LEAVES NO ONE BEHIND.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "Someone must have used this basement as an office years ago. This desk is very plain, with no drawers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at stool", "response": "This stool looks like the kind of stool that people leave in a corner for years, pulling out only for the worst tasks, such as changing a light bulb in the men's room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na weathered notebook\na dry fountain pen", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "If you ever wanted to learn more about fish, this would have been the place to do it. A shattered tank spans one wall, and a wave of broken glass fills the air before it. You can leave to the Hall of Mirrors to the west or the splash pool to the north.\n\nAn old leaden hatch is open, revealing an opening down to the basement.\n\nIt is unbelievably quiet in here. You poke your head outside, only to withdraw it again in shock and fear. It seems the world has been frozen in time!\n\nYour only conclusion is that the trauma of the battle and explosion have awakened some sort of latent abilities deep within you. It is\nup to you and you alone to save every last person in this abandoned theme park.\n\nWhen you feel like everyone is safe, you can RELEASE the temporal energies in the same place that you stopped time and let the bomb fall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tank", "response": "This fish tank seems to have been caught in the process of shattering from some sort of shockwave. Tiny shards of glass fill the air in front of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glass", "response": "Tiny shards of glass fill the air in front of the shattered aquarium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Splash Pool (Frozen)\nThe splash pool has frozen solid, and flakes of snow surround you. A large carousel is to the west, and you can retreat to the\naquarium to the south.\n\nYou saw this from the aquarium as you were headed down the stairs. Mister Winter was battling the Alchemist until she ran out of antifreeze. That's when he started pulling out the big symbols.\n\nMister Winter is surrounded by pillars of ice, one hand pointing accusingly to the snack bar to the north, and another tracing\nan arcane symbol of winter in the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Winter", "response": "An ancient necromancer awoken by the evils of war, Mister Winter is capable of casting bone-chilling spells, incantations, and diagrams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up alchemist", "response": "Once the mild-mannered Professor Molly Q. Lar, The Alchemist uses her powers of chemistry to alter the human body and mind. While she initially resisted the unscientific appellation of Alchemist, she now embraces her mystique.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine mister", "response": "(Mister Winter)\nMister Winter is the epitome of cold, with bulky armor made from ice. Just looking at him makes you chilled inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the symbol", "response": "The arcane symbol of winter traces itself into your mind. You feel confident that you would be able to reproduce it on a suitable medium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ice", "response": "Which do you mean, the splash pool, the bulky ice armor or the pillars of ice?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Pool", "response": "Splash Pool (Frozen)\nThe splash pool has frozen solid, and flakes of snow surround you. A large carousel is to the west, and you can retreat to the\naquarium to the south.\n\nMister Winter is surrounded by pillars of ice, one hand pointing accusingly to the snack bar to the north, and another tracing\nan arcane symbol of winter in the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the armor", "response": "Mister Winter made this armor from slabs of pure ice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pillars", "response": "Forceful and fantastical at the same time, these pillars were raised by Mister Winter's power.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The snack bar smells horrible, and is encrusted with filth. It has changed the least of all of the attractions. The splash pool is to the south, and the gift shop occupies the space to the west.\n\nAh, so this is where the Alchemist ended up.\n\nThe Alchemist has stumbled over the snack bar in her haste to flee from something to the south. Her bag has spilled, sending potions of power flying everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Alchemist", "response": "(the Alchemist)\nThe Alchemist wears a close-fitting pink helmet and a pink lab coat. She normally carries numerous potions, but they seem to have gotten away from her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the potions", "response": "There are so many potions here, it's bewildering. You'll never find anything without help.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bag", "response": "The Alchemist's bag has spilled, sending potions everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bag", "response": "That's frozen in time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the potions", "response": "There are hundreds of potions. You'll need to be more specific.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the filth", "response": "The filth is, as might be expected, filthy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search Alchemist", "response": "(the Alchemist)\nYou find nothing of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search potions", "response": "Without help, it's impossible to distinguish them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The ghosts of merchandise past haunt this weathered shop. An empty display table has been left here, as well as some boxes and leftover packaging. The snack bar is back to the east, and the carousel\nis south.\n\nSo this is where Squid Kid ended up. Makes sense the Chef would be here, too.\n\nSquid Kid is crouched, cowering, under the table. A puddle of ink trails behind her.\n\nThe Chef is frozen mid-stalk, clutching a massive cleaver in one hand and a carving fork in the other. She's looking for something, or someone, and she looks very, very hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine kid", "response": "Poor Squid Kid. She's tried attending six different schools since her change, but the students invariably begin to complain about her wrecking the grade curve. But she's managed to keep her superpowers remarkably well hidden.\n\nSquid Kid is squished into a rubbery suit with an insignia of a squid on the center.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up squid kid", "response": "Squid Kid was born when a mild-mannered young girl fell into a vat of squid ink at the same time that a lightning storm struck the factory. With her powerful ink shots and the ability to breathe underwater, Squid Kid is the best at submarine hide and seek!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chef", "response": "The Chef is one of Evildom's most wretched beasts. Not content with feasting on endangered species, she also enjoys devouring pulp science fiction books and consuming unhealthy amounts of television and newspaper stories.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine boxes", "response": "The boxes and leftover packaging are completely unimportant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ink", "response": "The ink is puddled up in a trail leading to Squid Kid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The carousel is much barer than it used to be. Your friend Teddy has a wooden ostrich in his house that he claims is from here, but you never know with Teddy.\n\nThe first bits of debris from Rex Dashing's airship have almost reached the ground here.\n\nThere are exits to the north, east, south, and\nwest.\n\nYou stare upwards in shock. The exploding airship is directly above. A masterpiece of nuclear and robotic technology, turned to such destruction. Horrible.\n\nis stopped..", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the airship", "response": "High in the sky, Rex Dashing's airship is frozen mid-explosion. Various bits are plummeting from the sky towards the center of the park.\n\nThe debris is very close to you here. You may be able to climb\nup it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up dashing", "response": "Rex Dashing is a playboy adventurer and superhero, current owner of Airship Mephistopheles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "Boy, it sure is high up here. You can see the whole park. It's a lot smaller than you remember.\n\nYou are perched on a lone stair, with one hand on a steel beam. You can go back down to the carousel, further from impending doom.\n\nAmelia Derringer, intrepid villain, hangs suspended in the air, her body stretched and elasticized as only a blobified morphivore can. She currently looks like an upside-down bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nAmelia the villain is stretched out and blobified into a bowl shape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up amelia", "response": "Catgirl, society girl, and metamorphic prodigy. She has only to eat a bite of an animal to gain its powers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou don't want to knock anyone over, and so you leave them alone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the radon", "response": "Inventor, physicist, and card-carrying member of the League of Notoriety.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ship", "response": "High in the sky, Rex Dashing's airship is frozen mid-explosion. Various bits are plummeting from the sky towards the center of the park.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The carousel is much barer than it used to be. Your friend Teddy has a wooden ostrich in his house that he claims is from here, but you never know with Teddy.\n\nThe first bits of debris from Rex Dashing's airship have almost reached the ground here.\n\nThere are exits to the north, east, south, and\nwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large, blank sign here.\n\nIt's quiet here. Too quiet. You're beginning to doubt yourself. Why did you have to be the one to have time-stopping powers? And why should you have to save everyone? It's a great burden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sign", "response": "The sign must have had something on it, once. But everything is faded away, leaving it blank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sign", "response": "That's frozen in time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Touch sign", "response": "You lay your fingers on it for a moment, but nothing happens. Not in this world where time stands still.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You wander in the corn maze for a time, but can't find the northern exit. You'll have to figure out a way to get through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The ghosts of merchandise past haunt this weathered shop. An empty display table has been left here, as well as some boxes and leftover packaging. The snack bar is back to the east, and the carousel\nis south.\n\nSquid Kid is crouched, cowering, under the table. A puddle of ink trails behind her.\n\nThe Chef is frozen mid-stalk, clutching a massive cleaver in one hand and a carving fork in the other. She's looking for something, or someone, and she looks very, very hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the pen with the ink", "response": "Your sentence had too many words; you can try typing just the part where you wanted to fill the dry fountain pen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the pen", "response": "You fill the fountain pen from the ink. Most of the ink remains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large, blank sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "In contrast to the other attractions, the haunted house has improved over time. It is far more frightening and dangerous now than before, especially if you factor in tetanus. You can see the Hall of Mirrors to the east and the Corn Maze to the north.\n\nLupor the Wolfman rears on two furry hind legs, fangs bared. You've caught him mid-howl as he unleashes the Wolf Moon above him.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers have been reduced to the Wonder Cubs. Three dogs are caught mid-motion as they struggle out of their human clothing.\n\nBeams of insidious light from Lupor's Wolf Moon strike your body. A horrible change comes upon you: your hands twist into claws, your skin erupts into fur, and your teeth sharpen into fangs! You have become a wolf.\n\nUnable to hold more than one thing in your mouth, you drop the weathered notebook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You are Justine Thyme. While most of your time is spent getting straight A's in high school or studying up on superheroes, you also have been conducting research on Einstein's recent breakthroughs in Time and Space.\n\nAlso, you are a wolf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up wonder brothers", "response": "While their main power is photogenicity, the Wonder Brothers also share the powers of teamwork, friendship, and a great work ethic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Wonder", "response": "(the Wonder Brothers)\nThe Wonder Brothers look astonished by the turn of events that overtook them right before the explosion.\n\nAlso, the Wonder Brothers are in wolf form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Moon", "response": "Lupor's signature ability, the Wolf Moon is a ghostly mirage in the air, the very sight of which turns viewers into wolves. Fortunately, it's in a confined area, blocked by the corn maze to the north and the house itself in the other directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Lupor", "response": "Bitter at the world for his curse of Lycanthropy, Lupor developed a ritual to summon the Wolf Moon, so that all that behold it would suffer the same curse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large, blank sign here.\n\nNow that Lupor's Wolf Moon is blocked from view, you feel its horrible effects leaving your body.\n\nYou revert to human form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na filled fountain pen", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the pen", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "In contrast to the other attractions, the haunted house has improved over time. It is far more frightening and dangerous now than before, especially if you factor in tetanus. You can see the Hall of Mirrors to the east and the Corn Maze to the north.\n\nLupor the Wolfman rears on two furry hind legs, fangs bared. You've caught him mid-howl as he unleashes the Wolf Moon above him.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers have been reduced to the Wonder Cubs. Three dogs are caught mid-motion as they struggle out of their human clothing.\n\nYou can also see a weathered notebook here.\n\nYou have become a wolf.\n\nYou hesitate, thinking of your actions. Was going south the right thing to do?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the notebook", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large, blank sign here.\n\nYou can see a filled fountain pen here.\n\nYou revert to human form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The Hall of Mirrors is mirrorless, but it retains its former name. The hall is open to the sky, and, far above you, Rex Dashing's airship is frozen in the midst of exploding.\n\nYou remember this spot from earlier. Copy Cat had been lurking here the entire battle, fending off attacks from the Wonder Brothers and Golden Girl. She had the upper hand until the Lenswarden arrived.\n\nYou can go east to the abandoned aquarium, west to the\nremains of the burnt haunted house, or north to the carousel in\nthe center of the park.\n\nThe Lenswarden peers fearfully through the Lens of Truth, a talisman of great power, trying to find the real Copy Cat.\n\nFive versions of Copy Cat are frozen mid-pounce here, ready to strike the Lenswarden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Lenswarden", "response": "(the Lenswarden)\nThe Lenswarden wears a simple black domino mask. He projects a feeling of false confidence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Lens of the Truth", "response": "A lens through which one might look and discover the truth of all things. Some say it has a spirit of its own.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Lenswarden", "response": "The Lenswarden is a warrior for justice! With his mighty Lens of Truth (rumored to have a spirit of its own), the Lenswarden can discern those things which are of the greatest import for his future! He can pick out a needle in a haystack or a ruffian in a crowd. Beware, evildoers!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Lens", "response": "You snatch the Lens of Truth from The Lenswarden's unwitting fingers. It came loose--perhaps the rumors about the Lens are true. In any case, its power is now yours: you can LOOK THROUGH the lens in any location you find yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up golden", "response": "Descended from the legendary King Midas, Golden Girl has turned the ancient curse into a superpower for good. Anything that she touches once turns to gold, while anything she touches twice turns back to normal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Copy", "response": "After being thrown out of college for plagiarism, Copy Cat found work at a mimeograph factory. After finding out her boss was the mysterious Duplicator, she stole his cloning technology to become the super villain she is today!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up duplicator", "response": "An early hero whose powers were stolen by Copy Cat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through Lens", "response": "Through the power of the Lens of Truth, you discern the real Copy Cat!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "If you ever wanted to learn more about fish, this would have been the place to do it. A shattered tank spans one wall, and a wave of broken glass fills the air before it. You can leave to the Hall of Mirrors to the west or the splash pool to the north.\n\nAn old leaden hatch is open, revealing an opening down to the basement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through Lens", "response": "The mighty Lens of Truth reveals no new information to you.\n\nYou have the worrying feeling that you're forgetting something. But it might just be nerves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The snack bar smells horrible, and is encrusted with filth. It has changed the least of all of the attractions. The splash pool is to the south, and the gift shop occupies the space to the west.\n\nThe Alchemist has stumbled over the snack bar in her haste to flee from something to the south. Her bag has spilled, sending potions of power flying everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through Lens", "response": "Sparkling lights emanate from two of the potions: a mysterious green potion and a potion of deepest purple. These have been marked out as vital for your destiny.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the green potion", "response": "It has a downward-facing arrow on the label.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine purple potion", "response": "It has an upward-facing arrow on the label.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take green potion", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You are perched on a lone stair, with one hand on a steel beam. You can go back down to the carousel, further from impending doom.\n\nAmelia Derringer, intrepid villain, hangs suspended in the air, her body stretched and elasticized as only a blobified morphivore can. She currently looks like an upside-down bowl.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The carousel is much barer than it used to be. Your friend Teddy has a wooden ostrich in his house that he claims is from here, but you never know with Teddy.\n\nThe first bits of debris from Rex Dashing's airship have almost reached the ground here.\n\nThere are exits to the north, east, south, and\nwest.\n\nYou feel a bit more energy now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Time", "response": "There's nothing on this page except the name Madame Time, written with a question mark. You don't remember writing this. But you like the name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large, blank sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You wander in the corn maze for a time, but can't find the northern exit. You'll have to figure out a way to get through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou're not big enough to do that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You draw the symbol", "response": "You inscribe the arcane symbol of winter on the blank sign. It flashes brightly, and the temperature in this area plummets.\n\nFrost spreads from the sign onto the corn, causing the corn to buckle under the weight until the entire maze is flattened, allowing the light of the Wolf Moon from the south to shine upon you.\n\nYou have become a wolf.\n\nUnable to hold more than one thing in your mouth, you drop the purple potion, the green potion, the Lens of Truth and the weathered notebook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This used to be the highest point of the theme park before the Small Collapse of '23 and the Big Collapse of '31. You can enter the Corn Maze to the south.\n\nYou never made it to this part of the park earlier. It certainly looks...different.\n\nRusty Red has rusted the roller coaster, coating the rails in rust and costing the coaster its rusticly robust role in the theme park.\n\nGolden Girl laughs at the futile efforts of Rusty Red to corrode her gleaming armor. She is hiding under the tracks with only her hand sticking out.\n\nRusty Red is now a wolf.\n\nGolden Girl is now a wolf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Red", "response": "Rusty Red was a chemistry professor before he was dismissed and became a janitor at his former school. Filled with resentment at the board of trustees, he turned to a life of crime and oxidation.\n\nAlso, Rusty Red is in wolf form.\n\nYou're struck with memories of theme parks of your youth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine girl", "response": "Golden Girl is encased in pure gold, from her golden wolf helmet to her golden wolf boots. Her wolf armor is heavy, and not very functional, but her super-strength and power of flight make up for it.\n\nAlso, Golden Girl is in wolf form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the parks", "response": "No! You push past the fog of the past and focus on the here and now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large sign here with the symbol of Winter inscribed on it.\n\nWinter has struck the corn maze, leaving the stalks crushed and flattened by the heavy ice. You have a direct line of sight to the Wolf Moon to the south.\n\nYou can see a filled fountain pen, a weathered notebook, a green potion and a purple potion here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up red", "response": "Rusty Red, Golden Girl's arch-nemesis, spent years trying to find a way to recreate her powers. Instead, he discovered the means to rust any oxidizable metal. Alas, Golden Girl herself remains incorruptible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "In contrast to the other attractions, the haunted house has improved over time. It is far more frightening and dangerous now than before, especially if you factor in tetanus. You can see the Hall of Mirrors to the east and the Corn Maze to the north.\n\nLupor the Wolfman rears on two furry hind legs, fangs bared. You've caught him mid-howl as he unleashes the Wolf Moon above him.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers have been reduced to the Wonder Cubs. Three dogs are caught mid-motion as they struggle out of their human clothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This used to be the highest point of the theme park before the Small Collapse of '23 and the Big Collapse of '31. You can enter the Corn Maze to the south.\n\nRusty Red has rusted the roller coaster, coating the rails in rust and costing the coaster its rusticly robust role in the theme park.\n\nGolden Girl laughs at the futile efforts of Rusty Red to corrode her gleaming armor. It looks like she was hiding under the tracks.\n\nNow that she is in wolf form, though, she's been dislodged from her hiding spot.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You put Lens on Golden", "response": "(Golden Girl)\nPutting things on Golden Girl would achieve nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch Lens to Golden", "response": "(Golden Girl)\nGolden Girl's power only works on the living.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine girl", "response": "Golden Girl is encased in pure gold, from her golden wolf helmet to her golden wolf boots. Her wolf armor is heavy, and not very functional, but her super-strength and power of flight make up for it.\n\nAlso, Golden Girl is in wolf form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the helmet", "response": "This was once leather, before Golden Girl transformed it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine boots", "response": "This was once leather, before Golden Girl transformed it.\n\nYou hesitate, thinking of your actions. Was examining the golden armor the right thing to do?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see Golden Girl, crouched under the roller coaster to gain advantage against Rusty Red, look up in terror as she hears the howl of Lupor the Wolfman to the south. Then all is still.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large sign here with the symbol of Winter inscribed on it.\n\nWinter has struck the corn maze, leaving the stalks crushed and flattened by the heavy ice. You have a direct line of sight to the Wolf Moon to the south.\n\nYou can see a filled fountain pen, a weathered notebook, a green potion and a purple potion here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see a sped-up sequence of images, like a cinema show, revealing the passing seasons as the corn maze grew and wilted, year after year. Graffiti appears on the sign and is scrubbed away over and over again as the years pass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "In contrast to the other attractions, the haunted house has improved over time. It is far more frightening and dangerous now than before, especially if you factor in tetanus. You can see the Hall of Mirrors to the east and the Corn Maze to the north.\n\nLupor the Wolfman rears on two furry hind legs, fangs bared. You've caught him mid-howl as he unleashes the Wolf Moon above him.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers have been reduced to the Wonder Cubs. Three dogs are caught mid-motion as they struggle out of their human clothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see Lupor's power welling up from within him, bursting forth into the Wolf Moon. The Wonder Brothers begin to flee, trying to reach the corn maze to block the sight when a flash of light from the sky blurs the scene.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The Hall of Mirrors is mirrorless, but it retains its former name. The hall is open to the sky, and, far above you, Rex Dashing's airship is frozen in the midst of exploding.\n\nYou can go east to the abandoned aquarium, west to the\nremains of the burnt haunted house, or north to the carousel in\nthe center of the park.\n\nThe Lenswarden peers through the--ah, the--peers through nothing, trying to find the real Copy Cat.\n\nFive versions of Copy Cat are frozen mid-pounce here, ready to strike the Lenswarden. But you know which one is the real Copy Cat, now.\n\nYou revert to human form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see the Copy Cat snatching the Lens of Truth from the Lenswardenand gleefully looking through it. The Lenswarden looks panicked as he tries to figure out which copy is real.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "If you ever wanted to learn more about fish, this would have been the place to do it. A shattered tank spans one wall, and a wave of broken glass fills the air before it. You can leave to the Hall of Mirrors to the west or the splash pool to the north.\n\nAn old leaden hatch is open, revealing an opening down to the basement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see a burly worker carrying a heavy glass tank in the rain. It proves to be too large, and he falls to the ground, trapped under the aquarium.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This lead-lined basement is insulated from all outside sights and sounds. It looks like an old fallout shelter.\n\nYou've found the most isolated room in the theme park, which, given its history, is saying a lot. A discarded desk and an old stool are the only pieces of furniture left.\n\nYou can go up to the aquarium.\n\nYou can feel the point in space where you froze time. You can RELEASE it whenever you feel ready.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "Several years ago, you see a great collection of people, gathered to celebrate the completion of the shelter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see Mister Winter examining his arcane symbol with great pride.\n\nYou stop for a moment. Where did you set down the weathered notebook?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see the Lenswarden and the Alchemist pacing the room together, discussing their plans before the upcoming battle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The ghosts of merchandise past haunt this weathered shop. An empty display table has been left here, as well as some boxes and leftover packaging. The snack bar is back to the east, and the carousel\nis south.\n\nSquid Kid is crouched, cowering, under the table. A puddle of ink trails behind her.\n\nThe Chef is frozen mid-stalk, clutching a massive cleaver in one hand and a carving fork in the other. She's looking for something, or someone, and she looks very, very hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see a clerk refilling an inkwell with a supply of India ink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see kids climbing up the carousel, jumping on the top until the operator chases them off with dirt clods.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "After", "response": "You see a large falcon swoop down and grab a helpless sparrow in its talons before carrying it away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large sign here with the symbol of Winter inscribed on it.\n\nWinter has struck the corn maze, leaving the stalks crushed and flattened by the heavy ice. You have a direct line of sight to the Wolf Moon to the south.\n\nYou can see a filled fountain pen, a weathered notebook, a green potion and a purple potion here.\n\nYou have become a wolf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the purple", "response": "You grow to a much larger size.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "In contrast to the other attractions, the haunted house has improved over time. It is far more frightening and dangerous now than before, especially if you factor in tetanus. You can see the Hall of Mirrors to the east and the Corn Maze to the north.\n\nLupor the Wolfman rears on two furry hind legs, fangs bared. You've caught him mid-howl as he unleashes the Wolf Moon above him.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers have been reduced to the Wonder Cubs. Three dogs are caught mid-motion as they struggle out of their human clothing.\n\nYou sneeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Lupor", "response": "(Lupor the Wolfman)\nYou pick up Lupor the Wolfman.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large sign here with the symbol of Winter inscribed on it.\n\nWinter has struck the corn maze, leaving the stalks crushed and flattened by the heavy ice. You have a direct line of sight to the Wolf Moon to the south.\n\nYou can see the Lens of Truth, a filled fountain pen, a weathered notebook, a green potion and a purple potion here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This used to be the highest point of the theme park before the Small Collapse of '23 and the Big Collapse of '31. You can enter the Corn Maze to the south.\n\nRusty Red has rusted the roller coaster, coating the rails in rust and costing the coaster its rusticly robust role in the theme park.\n\nGolden Girl laughs at the futile efforts of Rusty Red to corrode her gleaming armor. It looks like she was hiding under the tracks.\n\nNow that she is in wolf form, though, she's been dislodged from her hiding spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch Lupor to golden", "response": "(Lupor the Wolfman to Golden Girl)\nThere is a flash of golden light, and Lupor the Wolfman is now solid gold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "In contrast to the other attractions, the haunted house has improved over time. It is far more frightening and dangerous now than before, especially if you factor in tetanus.\n\nThe Wolf Moon has been unleashed here, shining in the air. You can see the Hall of Mirrors to the east and the Corn Maze to the\nnorth.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers have been reduced to the Wonder Cubs. Three dogs are caught mid-motion as they struggle out of their human clothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Lupor", "response": "(Lupor the Wolfman)\nLupor is half-man, half-wolf, and all rage. His bulging biceps connect his shattering shoulders to his fierce forearms, culminating in cruel claws of awesome power!\n\nAlso, Lupor the Wolfman is made of solid gold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Moon", "response": "You drop Lupor the Wolfman to try and grab the Wolf Moon.\n\nIt is a ghostly image, impossible to manipulate by hand, or by paw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Lens", "response": "You drop Lupor the Wolfman to try and grab the Lens of Truth.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cover Moon with Lens", "response": "Your sentence had too many words; you can try typing just the part where you wanted to cover the Wolf Moon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cover Moon", "response": "The Wolf Moon is immaterial!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large sign here with the symbol of Winter inscribed on it.\n\nWinter has struck the corn maze, leaving the stalks crushed and flattened by the heavy ice. You have a direct line of sight to the Wolf Moon to the south.\n\nYou can see Lupor the Wolfman, a filled fountain pen, a weathered notebook, a green potion and a purple potion here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop Lens", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The carousel is much barer than it used to be. Your friend Teddy has a wooden ostrich in his house that he claims is from here, but you never know with Teddy.\n\nThe first bits of debris from Rex Dashing's airship have almost reached the ground here.\n\nThere are exits to the north, east, south, and\nwest.\n\nYou revert to human form.\n\nYou're struck with memories of playing with action figures as a child.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You are perched on a lone stair, with one hand on a steel beam. You can go back down to the carousel, further from impending doom.\n\nAmelia Derringer, intrepid villain, hangs suspended in the air, her body stretched and elasticized as only a blobified morphivore can. She currently looks like an upside-down bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou pick up Amelia Derringer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large sign here with the symbol of Winter inscribed on it.\n\nWinter has struck the corn maze, leaving the stalks crushed and flattened by the heavy ice. You have a direct line of sight to the Wolf Moon to the south.\n\nYou can see the Lens of Truth, Lupor the Wolfman, a filled fountain pen, a weathered notebook, a green potion and a purple potion here.\n\nYou have become a wolf.\n\nAmelia Derringer is now a bowl-shaped wolf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nAmelia the villain is stretched out and blobified into a bowl shape.\n\nAlso, Amelia Derringer is in wolf form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This used to be the highest point of the theme park before the Small Collapse of '23 and the Big Collapse of '31. You can enter the Corn Maze to the south.\n\nRusty Red has rusted the roller coaster, coating the rails in rust and costing the coaster its rusticly robust role in the theme park.\n\nGolden Girl laughs at the futile efforts of Rusty Red to corrode her gleaming armor. It looks like she was hiding under the tracks.\n\nNow that she is in wolf form, though, she's been dislodged from her hiding spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put golden in the bowl", "response": "(Golden Girl in Amelia Derringer)\nAmelia may be bowl-shaped, but she's not a convenient place to store medium-sized dry goods.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bowl on golden", "response": "(Golden Girl)\nPutting things on Golden Girl would achieve nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch Golden Girl with Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nThere is a flash of golden light, and Amelia Derringer is now solid gold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nAmelia the villain is stretched out and blobified into a bowl shape.\n\nAlso, Amelia Derringer is in wolf form.\n\nAlso, Amelia Derringer is made of solid gold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cover Golden", "response": "(Golden Girl)\nShe isn't something you can close.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take golden", "response": "(Golden Girl)\nYou feel more confident in this form, now. You should be able to carry more than one thing in your mouth.\n\nYou've got her!\n\nNow that you've pulled Golden Girl out, you should be able to avoid her golden paw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large sign here with the symbol of Winter inscribed on it.\n\nWinter has struck the corn maze, leaving the stalks crushed and flattened by the heavy ice. You have a direct line of sight to the Wolf Moon to the south.\n\nYou can see the Lens of Truth, Lupor the Wolfman, a filled fountain pen, a weathered notebook, a green potion and a purple potion here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The carousel is much barer than it used to be. Your friend Teddy has a wooden ostrich in his house that he claims is from here, but you never know with Teddy.\n\nThe first bits of debris from Rex Dashing's airship have almost reached the ground here.\n\nThere are exits to the north, east, south, and\nwest.\n\nYou revert to human form.\n\nGolden Girl is no longer in wolf form.\nAmelia Derringer is no longer in wolf form.\n\nYou hesitate, thinking of your actions. Was going east the right thing to do?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Splash Pool (Frozen)\nThe splash pool has frozen solid, and flakes of snow surround you. A large carousel is to the west, and you can retreat to the\naquarium to the south.\n\nMister Winter is surrounded by pillars of ice, one hand pointing accusingly to the snack bar to the north, and another tracing\nan arcane symbol of winter in the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Winter", "response": "(Mister Winter)\nYou pick up Mister Winter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Chef", "response": "You pick up the Chef.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Kid", "response": "You pick up Squid Kid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Alchemist", "response": "(the Alchemist)\nYou pick up the Alchemist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Splash Pool (Frozen)\nThe splash pool has frozen solid, and flakes of snow surround you. A large carousel is to the west, and you can retreat to the\naquarium to the south.\n\nThe arcane symbol of winter continues pulsing cold throughout the area, and the snack bar is to the north.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Amelia is too awkwardly shaped to carry down the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou try putting Amelia over the opening. She's the right shape, but she's not quite big enough to cover it.\n\nYou set Amelia to the side.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This lead-lined basement is insulated from all outside sights and sounds. It looks like an old fallout shelter.\n\nYou've found the most isolated room in the theme park, which, given its history, is saying a lot. A discarded desk and an old stool are the only pieces of furniture left.\n\nYou can go up to the aquarium.\n\nYou can feel the point in space where you froze time. You can RELEASE it whenever you feel ready.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "Alchemist: Dropped.\nSquid Kid: Dropped.\nChef: Dropped.\nMister Winter: Dropped.\nGolden Girl: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "If you ever wanted to learn more about fish, this would have been the place to do it. A shattered tank spans one wall, and a wave of broken glass fills the air before it. You can leave to the Hall of Mirrors to the west or the splash pool to the north.\n\nAn old leaden hatch is open, revealing an opening down to the basement.\n\nYou can see Amelia Derringer here.\n\nYou stop for a moment. Where did you set down the purple potion?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The Hall of Mirrors is mirrorless, but it retains its former name. The hall is open to the sky, and, far above you, Rex Dashing's airship is frozen in the midst of exploding.\n\nYou can go east to the abandoned aquarium, west to the\nremains of the burnt haunted house, or north to the carousel in\nthe center of the park.\n\nThe Lenswarden peers through the--ah, the--peers through nothing, trying to find the real Copy Cat.\n\nFive versions of Copy Cat are frozen mid-pounce here, ready to strike the Lenswarden. But you know which one is the real Copy Cat, now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Cat", "response": "Because of the power imparted you by the Lens of Truth, you approach the real Copy Cat easily.\n\nYou pick up Copy Cat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Lenswarden", "response": "(the Lenswarden)\nYou pick up the Lenswarden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "If you ever wanted to learn more about fish, this would have been the place to do it. A shattered tank spans one wall, and a wave of broken glass fills the air before it. You can leave to the Hall of Mirrors to the west or the splash pool to the north.\n\nAn old leaden hatch is open, revealing an opening down to the basement.\n\nYou can see Amelia Derringer here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This lead-lined basement is insulated from all outside sights and sounds. It looks like an old fallout shelter.\n\nYou've found the most isolated room in the theme park, which, given its history, is saying a lot. A discarded desk and an old stool are the only pieces of furniture left.\n\nYou can go up to the aquarium.\n\nYou can see Golden Girl, Mister Winter, the Chef, Squid Kid and the Alchemist here.\n\nYou can feel the point in space where you froze time. You can RELEASE it whenever you feel ready.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "Lenswarden: Dropped.\nCopy Cat: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The Hall of Mirrors is mirrorless, but it retains its former name. The hall is open to the sky, and, far above you, Rex Dashing's airship is frozen in the midst of exploding.\n\nYou can go east to the abandoned aquarium, west to the\nremains of the burnt haunted house, or north to the carousel in\nthe center of the park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "In contrast to the other attractions, the haunted house has improved over time. It is far more frightening and dangerous now than before, especially if you factor in tetanus.\n\nThe Wolf Moon has been unleashed here, shining in the air. You can see the Hall of Mirrors to the east and the Corn Maze to the\nnorth.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers have been reduced to the Wonder Cubs. Three dogs are caught mid-motion as they struggle out of their human clothing.\n\nYou have become a wolf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Brothers", "response": "You pick up the Wonder Brothers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Your second favorite attraction at the theme park. It really feels like home, here. You can leave to the north, east, and\nsouth.\n\nThere is a large sign here with the symbol of Winter inscribed on it.\n\nWinter has struck the corn maze, leaving the stalks crushed and flattened by the heavy ice. You have a direct line of sight to the Wolf Moon to the south.\n\nYou can see the Lens of Truth, Lupor the Wolfman, a filled fountain pen, a weathered notebook, a green potion and a purple potion here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This used to be the highest point of the theme park before the Small Collapse of '23 and the Big Collapse of '31. You can enter the Corn Maze to the south.\n\nRusty Red has rusted the roller coaster, coating the rails in rust and costing the coaster its rusticly robust role in the theme park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Red", "response": "You pick up Rusty Red.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Lupor", "response": "(Lupor the Wolfman)\nYou pick up Lupor the Wolfman.\n\nYou're beginning to get a bit tired, but you pull yourself together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The carousel is much barer than it used to be. Your friend Teddy has a wooden ostrich in his house that he claims is from here, but you never know with Teddy.\n\nThe first bits of debris from Rex Dashing's airship have almost reached the ground here.\n\nThere are exits to the north, east, south, and\nwest.\n\nYou revert to human form.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers are no longer in wolf form.\nRusty Red is no longer in wolf form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Splash Pool (Frozen)\nThe splash pool has frozen solid, and flakes of snow surround you. A large carousel is to the west, and you can retreat to the\naquarium to the south.\n\nThe arcane symbol of winter continues pulsing cold throughout the area, and the snack bar is to the north.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "This lead-lined basement is insulated from all outside sights and sounds. It looks like an old fallout shelter.\n\nYou've found the most isolated room in the theme park, which, given its history, is saying a lot. A discarded desk and an old stool are the only pieces of furniture left.\n\nYou can go up to the aquarium.\n\nYou can see Copy Cat, the Lenswarden, Golden Girl, Mister Winter, the Chef, Squid Kid and the Alchemist here.\n\nYou can feel the point in space where you froze time. You can RELEASE it whenever you feel ready.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all but Lupor", "response": "Rusty Red: Dropped.\nWonder Brothers: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch Lupor to golden", "response": "(Lupor the Wolfman to Golden Girl)\nThere is a flash of golden light, and Lupor the Wolfman is now made of living flesh again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop Lupor", "response": "(Lupor the Wolfman)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "In contrast to the other attractions, the haunted house has improved over time. It is far more frightening and dangerous now than before, especially if you factor in tetanus.\n\nThe Wolf Moon has been unleashed here, shining in the air. You can see the Hall of Mirrors to the east and the Corn Maze to the\nnorth.\n\nYou have become a wolf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "Lens of Truth: Taken.\nfilled fountain pen: Taken.\nweathered notebook: Taken.\ngreen potion: Taken.\npurple potion: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The carousel is much barer than it used to be. Your friend Teddy has a wooden ostrich in his house that he claims is from here, but you never know with Teddy.\n\nThe first bits of debris from Rex Dashing's airship have almost reached the ground here.\n\nThere are exits to the north, east, south, and\nwest.\n\nYou revert to human form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Splash Pool (Frozen)\nThe splash pool has frozen solid, and flakes of snow surround you. A large carousel is to the west, and you can retreat to the\naquarium to the south.\n\nThe arcane symbol of winter continues pulsing cold throughout the area, and the snack bar is to the north.\n\nYou're struck with memories of reading your first comic book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the comic book", "response": "No! You push past the fog of the past and focus on the here and now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the purple on Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou apply the purple potion to Amelia Derringer.\n\nAmelia Derringer grows to a much larger size.\nUnfortunately, Amelia grows in the wrong place, failing to block the staircase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou don't want to knock anyone over, and so you leave them alone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the purple on yourself", "response": "You apply the purple potion to yourself.\n\nYou cannot go any bigger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the tank", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cover hatch", "response": "There's no way you're moving that. It's bolted down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the green on Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou apply the green potion to Amelia Derringer.\n\nAmelia Derringer shrinks back to normal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou apply the green potion to Amelia Derringer.\n\nAmelia Derringer shrinks down to a much smaller size.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou pick up Amelia Derringer.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "Even shrunk as far as possible, Amelia is too awkwardly shaped to carry down the stairs.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This lead-lined basement is insulated from all outside sights and sounds. It looks like an old fallout shelter.\n\nYou've found the most isolated room in the theme park, which, given its history, is saying a lot. A discarded desk and an old stool are the only pieces of furniture left.\n\nYou can go up to the aquarium.\n\nYou can see Lupor the Wolfman, the Wonder Brothers, Rusty Red, Copy Cat, the Lenswarden, Golden Girl, Mister Winter, the Chef, Squid Kid and the Alchemist here.\n\nYou can feel the point in space where you froze time. You can RELEASE it whenever you feel ready.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "If you ever wanted to learn more about fish, this would have been the place to do it. A shattered tank spans one wall, and a wave of broken glass fills the air before it. You can leave to the Hall of Mirrors to the west or the splash pool to the north.\n\nAn old leaden hatch is open, revealing an opening down to the basement.\n\nYou can see Amelia Derringer here.\n\nYou hesitate, thinking of your actions. Was going up the right thing to do?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Amelia in the tank", "response": "(Amelia Derringer in the shattered tank)\nThat can't contain things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou apply the purple potion to Amelia Derringer.\n\nAmelia Derringer grows back to normal.\n\n(Amelia Derringer)\nAmelia the villain is stretched out and blobified into a bowl shape.\n\nAlso, Amelia Derringer is made of solid gold.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Amelia is too awkwardly shaped to carry down the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the stool", "response": "Your bottom is still sore from sitting on that thing. No thanks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stool", "response": "This furniture is old and fairly nasty. It should be left where it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou pick up Amelia Derringer.\n\nYou stop for a moment. Where did you set down Copy Cat?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the purple on Amelia", "response": "(Amelia Derringer)\nYou apply the purple potion to Amelia Derringer.\n\nAmelia Derringer grows to a much larger size.\n\nAmelia settles down above you like a giant lid. The golden dome settles firmly over and around you, completely enclosing you and the opening to the basement. The entire basement is now shielded!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Release", "response": "You let go of the rigid grasp that you have on time, and it starts up with a rush. There is an immediate BOOM as the explosion hits. Superheroes topple over and smash to the ground.\n\nGolden Girl staggers to her feet. She looks at you. You look at Lupor the Wolfman. Everyone looks at Amelia. Lupor the Wolfman says, \"What just happened?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Reveal", "response": "Amelia Derringer received a phone call almost immediately following the battle. She disappeared shortly thereafter.\n\nSquid Kid quit the superhero business after the battle. She now runs a small crew recovering precious goods from shipwrecks. Just don't surprise her when you're wearing white.\n\nCopy Cat was stored in six different cells during her time in prison. After her release, she expanded on her abilities and became the first one-woman cricket team to win nationals.\n\nThe Lenswarden had an identity crisis after the battle. He became in succession Magnifying Man, The Triumphant Truthseeker, Eye Guy, and The Thing that Sees.\n\nAfter the battle, Lupor the Wolfman lost confidence in himself, losing the ability to summon the Wolf Moon. His journey to recovery, and his renaissance as El Lobo Maravilloso, are stories for another day.\n\nThe Wonder Brothers formed a band and toured the world before splitting up into ultimately unsuccessful solo acts.\n\nMister Winter took calligraphy and drawing lessons in prison, eventually becoming a renowned artist. \"His work,\" said one noted critic, \"gave me shivers.\"\n\nGolden Girl, highly offended by the misuse of her powers, became a recluse in the mountains of Peru. Legend says that those with terminal illnesses can receive a boon of extended life from her, waiting in hibernation for medical skills to advance.\n\nRusty Red escaped prison easily by rusting through the bars. Six times, in fact. Unfortunately, the cars he stole never got far enough.\n\nAfter her capture and incarceration, The Chef opened up twin businesses in rodent control and cheap meat nuggets.\n\nAfter the events of the explosion, The Alchemist went on to a successful career in agriculture. Her prize pumpkin at the Tyler County fair broke every record on the books!\n\nAs for you? Well, that's a story for another time. And another time. And multiple times at once.\n\nWould you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, QUIT, UNDO the last command or REVEAL where everyone ended up?", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Science Fiction" ]

[ "artificial intelligence", "built-in hints", "bunker", "caves", "gender-neutral protagonist", "IFComp 2015", "IFComp Game", "multiple endings", "nonhuman protagonist", "present tense", "robots", "science fiction", "second person", "test as premise", "walkthrough" ]

[ 3, 8, 8, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "In the dream, you are already one of the Administrators.\nResponsible for the security of all of the countries once known as the West, your decisions affect the lives of two billion people. It's a tough job, and you worked hard for many years in order to get it.\n\nThen you wake up, and remember that you're not even qualified to work here yet! Today is the day you qualify. Today is the day of your\nFinal Exam.\n\nCopyright (C) Jack Whitham 2015 (IFComp) 01-Nov-2015\n\n\n\nBedroom (on the bed)\nYou're in bed. The alarm didn't wake you. Something feels wrong. There is no light from the window, and your bedroom seems to be empty...\n\n[Enter HELP if you are unsure what to do now.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan identity badge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the badge", "response": "(first getting out of bed)\nA small plastic ID badge. The badge states: 'Candidate Number 28436'.\n\nSomething is certainly wrong! Is this... part of the test? You never found out exactly what the final exam involved. Perhaps it is like this for every candidate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "This is very like the room you were assigned for this year's exam season. There are dozens of them in the Administration Centre's residential block, all more or less identical. But it cannot be your room, because all of your stuff is gone, and the room looks like it did when you first moved in. It's clean, tidy, and almost completely empty, just with basic furnishings: desk, chair, bed and washbasin. There's a window in the north wall and a door leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the washbasin", "response": "It's a small washbasin with a mirror above it. Your toothbrush and soap have gone, along with everything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are a student of Administration theory. You think of yourself as fairly smart and attractive, reasonably charming, and certainly well-prepared for any exam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wash", "response": "Congratulations on your excellent hygiene.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the chair", "response": "But you have an exam to pass!\n\n[You should go out; whatever is going on, you're not going to find any answers here.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint bed", "response": "If there were any hints about the bed, you'd see them now. But the bed isn't important, so there are no hints about it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "This is very like the room you were assigned for this year's exam season. There are dozens of them in the Administration Centre's residential block, all more or less identical. But it cannot be your room, because all of your stuff is gone, and the room looks like it did when you first moved in. It's clean, tidy, and almost completely empty, just with basic furnishings: desk, chair, bed and washbasin. There's a window in the north wall and a door leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Even at night, you'd expect to see something. The gardens of the Administration Centre, and beyond them, the amphitheatre, the hedge maze and ornamental lake, lit by street lights and moonlight. It never gets completely dark. But today, there's nothing at all. Just total blackness, as if there is a smooth black wall just beyond the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You walk through a few deserted corridors. There is nobody here; the building is completely silent. You cross the Administration Centre's quadrangle, also deserted, and end up in...\n\nThis is the main entrance to the sprawling Administration Centre. Large doors to the south would lead to the driveway and surrounding parkland, but you cannot see anything through the windows in the south wall. A grand staircase leads upwards. Doors lead east and west to the wings of the main building, while a smaller exit leads north to the quadrangle. There is a green door in the northwest corner of the room. There's a mural on the western wall, and a portrait and a mirror on the eastern wall.\n\nOn the reception desk is a fax machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "It's on the reception desk, where it seems quite out of place next to the modern computer workstations. It's not a printer or a scanner: it's an old-fashioned fax machine that prints onto thin thermal paper. You notice some paper hanging out of the machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at door", "response": "Which do you mean, the large doors or the green door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the green door", "response": "It's a small green door in the northwest corner of the room, under the staircase. The word 'MAINTENANCE' is written faintly on the door.\nThe fax machine bleeps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paper", "response": "Poor-quality paper from a fax machine. It reads:\n\n'Dear candidate 28436, please go upstairs to the Observation Gallery where you will find further instructions.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mural", "response": "The mural shows the construction of a gigantic Gothic cathedral by medieval craftsmen. The cathedral, which is half finished, is covered in both primitive scaffolding and workmen, each of whom is busily engaged in creating some small part of the whole. It is already a thing of great beauty on both a micro and macro scale, though it may be a century before the work is done. A tiny caption reads 'The Rebuilding of Civilisation'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mirror", "response": "Somehow, your reflection looks older than you remember. The exam stress must be causing some premature aging!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine staircase", "response": "The wide staircase leads up to a mezzanine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the windows", "response": "Even at night, you'd expect to see something. The driveway and surrounding parkland, lit by street lights and moonlight. It never gets completely dark. But today, there's nothing at all. Just total blackness, as if there is a smooth black wall just beyond the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are a student of Administration theory. You think of yourself as fairly smart and attractive, reasonably charming, and certainly well-prepared for any exam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mirror", "response": "It is securely attached to the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine large", "response": "The doors to the south are the main entrance to the Administration Centre. They are tall, wide, and extremely locked. Other, smaller doors lead east, west, northwest and north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the maintenance door", "response": "The green door remains locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open east", "response": "(the mural)\nThat's not something you can open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The door in that direction is locked. Exits lead:\nnorth to the Quadrangle.\nup to the Mezzanine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "This is the main entrance to the sprawling Administration Centre. Large doors to the south would lead to the driveway and surrounding parkland, but you cannot see anything through the windows in the south wall. A grand staircase leads upwards. Doors lead east and west to the wings of the main building, while a smaller exit leads north to the quadrangle. There is a green door in the northwest corner of the room. There's a mural on the western wall, and a portrait and a mirror on the eastern wall.\n\nOn the reception desk is a fax machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the portrait", "response": "The painting hangs on the eastern wall. It is an enormous portrait of Edmund Burke, the 18th century writer and politician. The Central Administrator is said to be a fan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up", "response": "Seen through the window, the sky is completely black.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnorth to the Quadrangle.\nup to the Mezzanine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The quadrangle is completely surrounded by Administration Centre buildings. It's a large, square outdoor space with well-tended lawns and flowerbeds and paths leading in all directions. The place is unnervingly quiet. Though the buildings, paths and gardens are well-lit, the sky is completely black.\n\nThere is a sundial in the centre of the quadrangle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sundial", "response": "As there is no sun, the sundial isn't working. You notice a quotation on the brass dial. It reads: 'What we do here matters somewhere else.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up", "response": "The sky is completely black. Except for a message printed in white text, apparently floating far above you. The text reads: 'Safe Mode'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "The only exit leads south to the Lobby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dial", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the buildings", "response": "The quadrangle is surrounded by Administration Centre buildings. The style is palatial and 18th century: two storeys of grand, ornamental stonework, with attic windows peeking through the tiled roof above that. The buildings seem to be deserted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sky", "response": "(the up above)\nThe sky is completely black. Except for a message printed in white text, apparently floating far above you. The text reads: 'Safe Mode'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine text", "response": "The text reads: 'Safe Mode'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the badge", "response": "A small plastic ID badge. The badge states: 'Candidate Number 28436'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "On the reception desk is a fax machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "It's on the reception desk, where it seems quite out of place next to the modern computer workstations. It's not a printer or a scanner: it's an old-fashioned fax machine that prints onto thin thermal paper. You notice some paper hanging out of the machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the paper", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "As you walk up the stairs, you recall the first time you were here. It was a school trip when you were very young: a day out at the Administration Centre! You remember the sense of excitement at being so close to the great and powerful.\n\nThe first floor landing forms a mezzanine here, overlooking the lobby below. It's a sort of waiting room, placed right outside the Central Administrator's office, which is through the double doors to the west. A corridor leads east, and a grand staircase leads down. Like the rest of the building, the mezzanine is deserted, but if anyone was waiting here, they would be able to sit on the sofa and read the papers on the coffee table. Or they might look at the rather Administratively-themed artwork on the walls.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Stability' on the north wall.\n\nOn the coffee table are a memo and a newspaper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the newspaper", "response": "It's one of the few newspapers that still has a printed edition, though for obvious reasons, this is an electronic copy. The front page story is all about an African dictator named Mugaffi. It is illustrated with pictures of children being treated for chemical burns outside a school. A few days ago, chemical weapons were used in the rebel city of Morgazi. 'Sources' blame Mugaffi's forces for the attack.\n\nAccording to the newspaper, this is the latest horrible incident of the full-blown civil war in Assadia. Though the protests against the corrupt Mugaffi regime began peacefully enough, the regime retaliated brutally - first with riot police, then with soldiers - and the situation rapidly escalated into war between rebels and regime forces. Last week, Mugaffi launched airstrikes against rebel-held cities. Now he uses chemical weapons against unarmed civilians, in contravention to all law, decency and sanity. But Mugaffi is afraid of the usual fate of deposed dictators, and he will do anything to cling to power.\n\nYou recall that Assadia is an independent country outside of the Administration. As such, Mugaffi is free to do as he pleases, with no authority to restrain his gangster government. Strange, though, that the situation should have developed so quickly. You had thought that Mugaffi only won his presidency last year, as an anti-corruption candidate with much acclaim in the media, and was generally thought to be doing a good job in hard circumstances. But the newspaper reports imply that he's been in power for years.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sofa", "response": "A large and comfortable leather sofa. You notice a book underneath the sofa.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the book", "response": "The book is 'Notopia', by Perry Simm. Some of the book is a biography of the Central Administrator. But mostly, the book concerns how the Administration rose to power. The title refers to the Administration's approach to government, rejecting ideology and Utopian idealism, and focusing instead on stability and rational pragmatism. The result, according to the back cover, is 'the sort of society in which people would actually like to live'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the artwork", "response": "Which do you mean, the portrait of Edmund Burke or the twelve pictures?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Twelve", "response": "There are twelve pictures, each representing a key advancement in the development of human civilisation as seen by the Administrators. Some are obvious, like the discovery of fire, and the development of writing and agriculture. Others are more controversial, such as the institutionalisation of religion and the English revolution of 1688. The most recent pictures show the development of the Internet and the creation of the Administration.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the portrait", "response": "The painting hangs on the eastern wall. It is an enormous portrait of Edmund Burke, the 18th century writer and politician. The Central Administrator is said to be a fan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look behind the portrait", "response": "[In Final Exam, 'LOOK BEHIND' is synonymous with 'EXAMINE'.]\nThe painting hangs on the eastern wall. It is an enormous portrait of Edmund Burke, the 18th century writer and politician. The Central Administrator is said to be a fan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\neast to the Corridor.\ndown to the Lobby.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The first floor landing forms a mezzanine here, overlooking the lobby below. It's a sort of waiting room, placed right outside the Central Administrator's office, which is through the double doors to the west. A corridor leads east, and a grand staircase leads down. Like the rest of the building, the mezzanine is deserted, but if anyone was waiting here, they would be able to sit on the sofa and read the papers on the coffee table. Or they might look at the rather Administratively-themed artwork on the walls.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Stability' on the north wall.\n\nOn the coffee table are a memo and a newspaper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Even at night, you'd expect to see something. The driveway and surrounding parkland, lit by street lights and moonlight. It never gets completely dark. But today, there's nothing at all. Just total blackness, as if there is a smooth black wall just beyond the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The doors are locked. In this building, office doors are usually keyed to the identity of the person who works there, so these doors will only open for the Central Administrator, unless he is already in the office. It seems that he is out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plaque", "response": "It's one of three such plaques: the others are placed along the corridor to the east. Each briefly describes one of the three values of the Administration: Stability, Liberty, and Responsibility. Exams are highly likely to involve essays on interactions between the three, but it never hurts to revise a little more, so you read the description below the word:\n\n'Administrators have a duty to ensure that their government is stable, reliable and predictable, so that the freedoms and benefits enjoyed by subjects are unchanged from day to day, untouched by the chaos of civil disorder and economic turmoil. Policies with the potential to cause unrest, upheaval and conflict are considered dangerous, and Administrators are required to test all policies rigorously in simulation before deployment. As Pratchett wrote,\n\n'People believe they want justice and wise government but, in fact, what they really want is an assurance that tomorrow will be very much like today.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Look", "response": "(the plaque)\nIt's one of three such plaques: the others are placed along the corridor to the east. Each briefly describes one of the three values of the Administration: Stability, Liberty, and Responsibility. Exams are highly likely to involve essays on interactions between the three, but it never hurts to revise a little more, so you read the description below the word:\n\n'Administrators have a duty to ensure that their government is stable, reliable and predictable, so that the freedoms and benefits enjoyed by subjects are unchanged from day to day, untouched by the chaos of civil disorder and economic turmoil. Policies with the potential to cause unrest, upheaval and conflict are considered dangerous, and Administrators are required to test all policies rigorously in simulation before deployment. As Pratchett wrote,\n\n'People believe they want justice and wise government but, in fact, what they really want is an assurance that tomorrow will be very much like today.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the sofa", "response": "But you have an exam to pass!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\neast to the Corridor.\ndown to the Lobby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Burke", "response": "The painting hangs on the eastern wall. It is an enormous portrait of Edmund Burke, the 18th century writer and politician. The Central Administrator is said to be a fan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the sofa", "response": "(first taking the sofa)\nThat's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The corridor turns a corner here, continuing to the north and west. The Security Administrator's office is through a door to the east, and to the south, a short staircase leads downwards to a darkened room.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Liberty' on the north wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnorth to the Museum of Pre-Administration Government.\neast to the Security Administrator's Office.\nsouth to the Observation Gallery.\nwest to the Mezzanine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are in a cavernous room built on the same vast scale as a concert hall. It cannot possibly fit within the buildings of the Administration Centre - the normal rules of geometry have clearly been bent here. You are standing in an observation gallery far above the floor, which is filled with concentric circles of workstation desks. All face the centre of the room, where another circular desk is placed on a raised platform. Above all of this, a huge three-dimensional globe hangs in empty space. The dim lighting in the room comes mainly from the planet, which glows with an internal light. To the north, stairs lead up to the landing.\n\nA display monitor hangs above the gallery. There's a message on the monitor.\n\nYou saw this room on your first visit to the Administration Centre, all those years ago. It was even more awe-inspiring then: the room seemed even more gigantic, and at that time, it was full of people, all busily at work on the floor below. It felt like standing at the centre of the world. You knew this was the place you wanted to be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine monitor", "response": "The display is an enormous high-resolution flat-screen monitor, suspended from the gallery ceiling. It shows a message: green text on black background.\n\n'Dear candidate 28436,\n\nYou must be wondering where everyone has gone. Let me explain.\n\nA serious situation has developed, and I have been forced to take emergency steps to isolate the Administration Centre - and ourselves - from the outside world. This isolation prevents my communicating with you normally, and at present I can only do so via this screen. I will explain more in due course.\n\nIn the meantime, I need you to obtain the emergency access card.\nIt's in the museum north of here. It allows you to enter the Maintenance Room, which is northwest of the Lobby. Then POKE 702522351. Afterwards, please return here for further instructions.\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the globe", "response": "The 3D representation of Earth hangs in the centre of the room, suspended in empty space. It's a three-dimensional political map, highlighting countries and major cities, and it's tilted so that much of your view is filled with the European continent, where the countries of the First Settlement are shaded green. Across the Mediterranean Sea, much of Africa is shaded pink. The exception is the North African country of Assadia, which appears in yellow to indicate a major crisis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Assadia", "response": "Assadia is a North African country run by a vicious gangster named Mugaffi. The yellow colour indicates that a major crisis is happening there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine africa", "response": "That part of the world is independent from the Administration.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine first Settlement", "response": "The First Settlement countries were once the European Union - an unhappy federation in which very different countries with very different cultures were forced to fit together by those who favoured ideology over stability. The unstable and incompetent union stumbled from crisis to crisis until it eventually blundered into the one that finished it off for good. That was when the Administration took over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desks", "response": "The Administrators do much of their work here. Each desk is assigned to some small region of the world, with physically adjacent regions occupying adjacent desks in this room. The workstations allow situations to be analysed, resources to be allocated, and Administration decisions to be sent to the outside world. The layout of the room makes it easy to coordinate with neighbours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnorth to the Museum of Pre-Administration Government.\neast to the Security Administrator's Office.\nsouth to the Observation Gallery.\nwest to the Mezzanine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the Administration Centre's museum. It's a vast hall, stretching far away to the north and east. It is currently closed and in darkness. A red rope blocks passage to the north and east. Light is coming from the corridor to the south and faintly from a blank video screen just beyond the rope. Exhibition displays fill the room, most too far away into the dark to be readable.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Responsibility' on the west wall.\n\nYou can see a glass case containing an access card.\n\nYou remember your first visit to the Administration Centre. The tour spent hours in the museum. Most of your classmates took little interest in it and were quickly bored. But you found it fascinating. Here in the centre of it all, literally within the corridors of power! What excitement, what possibility!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the screen", "response": "The video screen is blank but producing a faint light. You notice a sticky label on the side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the label", "response": "There's a message on the label: 'Keeps breaking. 732595713 to reset.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the screen", "response": "It's on the other side of the rope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plaque", "response": "It's one of three such plaques: the others are to the south. Each briefly describes one of the three values of the Administration: Stability, Liberty, and Responsibility. Exams are highly likely to involve essays on interactions between the three, but it never hurts to revise a little more, so you read the description below the word:\n\n'Administrators have a duty to nurture personal responsibility, as this is necessary to build a strong, lawful and liberal society. It is held that each adult person has free will and is responsible for his or her actions. As Burke wrote,\n\n'Society cannot exist unless a controlling power upon will and appetite be placed somewhere, and the less of it there is within, the more there must be without.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the liberty", "response": "[In Final Exam, 'READ' is synonymous with 'EXAMINE'.]\nIt's one of three such plaques: the others are to the north and west. Each briefly describes one of the three values of the Administration: Stability, Liberty, and Responsibility. Exams are highly likely to involve essays on interactions between the three, but it never hurts to revise a little more, so you read the description below the word:\n\n'Administrators have a duty to uphold freedom of speech, thought and conscience, along with processes to prevent injustice such as jury trial. No person may be punished for holding opinions, however disagreeable these opinions may be. As Queen Elizabeth I famously said,", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "There's a plaque bearing the word 'Responsibility' on the west wall.\n\nYou can see a glass case containing an access card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the case", "response": "The glass case bears a sign: 'In case of emergency, break glass. Penalty for improper use.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the card", "response": "A plastic card much like a credit card. It is made of white plastic and bears the text: 'EMERGENCY MAINTENANCE ACCESS'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break glass", "response": "The glass shatters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the card", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is the office of the Security Administrator. There is no sign of the Administrator or any other staff. The door leads west to the corridor. The office is furnished by a desk, sofa, a bookshelf, and a mural on the northern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mural", "response": "The mural shows a dystopian cityscape of ugly skyscrapers and foul motorways. Miserable crowds mill around in the polluted, smoggy streets. The picture is intensely detailed, so you can even guess at what some of the people are doing, though none of them seem happy: miserable commuters, miserable criminals, miserable homeless people. Skyscrapers tower above them, adorned with the logos of credit cards and banks, and bearing the flags of failed governments. A tiny caption reads 'Where We Came From'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "A very solid-looking wooden desk, bare and clean, as if it's just been delivered by an upmarket furniture shop. You feel like something is missing from the desk, but you can't remember what it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sofa", "response": "A large and comfortable leather sofa.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the sofa", "response": "[In Final Exam, 'SEARCH' is synonymous with 'EXAMINE'.]\nA large and comfortable leather sofa.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bookshelf", "response": "The bookshelves seem to have been emptied recently. Marks in the dust show where books have been removed. There is a book on the top shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "('Notopia')\nThe book is 'Notopia', by Perry Simm. Some of the book is a biography of the Central Administrator. But mostly, the book concerns how the Administration rose to power. The title refers to the Administration's approach to government, rejecting ideology and Utopian idealism, and focusing instead on stability and rational pragmatism. The result, according to the back cover, is 'the sort of society in which people would actually like to live'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nan access card\n'Notopia'\nsome thermal paper\nan identity badge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Notopia on the bookshelf", "response": "You put 'Notopia' on the bookshelves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "Which do you mean, 'Notopia' or 'Idiots' Guide to Writing Malware and Viruses'?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Idiot", "response": "It's one of the well known Idiots' Guide series of computer books. It has a friendly yellow cover, on which a cartoon man offers to tell you how to 'Crack computers, flood networks and steal information'. The book contains several hundred pages of instructions for finding and exploiting security holes in computers. While this book may be filled with all sorts of interesting information, none of it's going to come up on your exam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\n'Idiots' Guide to Writing Malware and Viruses'\nan access card\nsome thermal paper\nan identity badge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under sofa", "response": "[In Final Exam, 'LOOK UNDER' is synonymous with 'EXAMINE'.]\nA large and comfortable leather sofa.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "This is the office of the Security Administrator. There is no sign of the Administrator or any other staff. The door leads west to the corridor. The office is furnished by a desk, sofa, a bookshelf, and a mural on the northern wall.\n\nOn the bookshelves is 'Notopia'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "A very solid-looking wooden desk, bare and clean, as if it's just been delivered by an upmarket furniture shop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the desk", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Poke", "response": "You can only POKE numbers in the POKE room. [The POKE room is reached from the Maintenance Room, northwest of the Lobby.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You are in a cavernous room built on the same vast scale as a concert hall. It cannot possibly fit within the buildings of the Administration Centre - the normal rules of geometry have clearly been bent here. You are standing in an observation gallery far above the floor, which is filled with concentric circles of workstation desks. All face the centre of the room, where another circular desk is placed on a raised platform. Above all of this, a huge three-dimensional globe hangs in empty space. The dim lighting in the room comes mainly from the planet, which glows with an internal light. To the north, stairs lead up to the landing.\n\nA display monitor hangs above the gallery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock Maintenance", "response": "The green door is automatically unlocked when you are carrying a suitable access card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28436,\n\nYou must be wondering where everyone has gone. Let me explain.\n\nA serious situation has developed, and I have been forced to take emergency steps to isolate the Administration Centre - and ourselves - from the outside world. This isolation prevents my communicating with you normally, and at present I can only do so via this screen. I will explain more in due course.\n\nIn the meantime, I need you to obtain the emergency access card.\nThen go west from the Maintenance Room and POKE 702522351. Afterwards, please return here for further instructions.\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the portal", "response": "It's a completely black rectangle. It's large enough for you to comfortably walk through it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are a student of Administration theory. You think of yourself as fairly smart and attractive, reasonably charming, and certainly well-prepared for any exam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sign", "response": "The sign is on the western door. It reads: 'POKE Room. Unauthorised access is prohibited by the Central Administrator. Misuse of POKE will corrupt physical memory and may result in instantaneous death, reboot, data loss, segmentation fault, brain damage, infinite loops and loss of network access. If in any doubt, do not enter.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are standing within core memory, completely surrounded by the raw, working elements of a vast machine. Lights pulsate and flicker all around you: the effect is like wandering around within your own brain. You can see 4,294,967,295 buttons here. A door leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the buttons", "response": "The buttons are numbered from 1 to 4294967295, and you can POKE any one of them, e.g. POKE 12345.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "POKE 12345", "response": "It could be really dangerous to press the wrong button. You decide to double-check the number before trying again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are a student of Administration theory. You think of yourself as fairly smart and attractive, reasonably charming, and certainly well-prepared for any exam.\n\nYou suddenly discover the effect of POKE'ing the wrong button. You find yourself in an...\nInfinite Loop\nYou are trapped forever in a tiny infinite loop.\n\nYou can see a kernel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the kernel", "response": "The kernel panics.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "At this point in the game, you should follow the instructions given to you by the Central Administrator. These will gradually unlock further parts of the game and give simple examples of the skills you will need to solve later puzzles. You can find the Administrator's most recent instructions in the Observation Gallery, which is UP, EAST, SOUTH from the Lobby. When you find the gallery, enter EXAMINE DISPLAY.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\n'Idiots' Guide to Writing Malware and Viruses'\nan access card\nsome thermal paper\nan identity badge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break", "response": "What do you want to break?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the badge", "response": "A small plastic ID badge. The badge states: 'Candidate Number 28436'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "POKE 28436", "response": "You can only POKE numbers in the POKE room. [The POKE room is west of the Maintenance Room, northwest of the Lobby.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are standing within core memory, completely surrounded by the raw, working elements of a vast machine. Lights pulsate and flicker all around you: the effect is like wandering around within your own brain. You can see 4,294,967,295 buttons here. A door leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "POKE 28436", "response": "It could be really dangerous to press the wrong button. You decide to double-check the number before trying again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the Administration Centre's museum. It's a vast hall, stretching far away to the north and east. It is currently closed and in darkness. A red rope blocks passage to the north and east. Light is coming from the corridor to the south and from a video screen just beyond the rope. Exhibition displays fill the room, most too far away into the dark to be readable.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Responsibility' on the west wall.\n\nYou can also see a glass case (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the screen", "response": "The video screen is showing a televised interview with the Central Administrator. He is wearing a dark suit, and even in this old recording, his hair has already started to turn grey. The sound is faint, but you can make out some of the discussion if you listen carefully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "(to the video screen)\nThe Central Administrator is speaking:\n\n'...having committed themselves to so-called science-based\npolicies, these being policies tested by computer simulation, the intellectual class could not raise an objection when the simulators produced answers they had not expected.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "(to the video screen)\n'Such as?' prompts the interviewer.\n\n'I mean that the simulations favoured social policies that the intellectuals had regarded as conservative, old-fashioned and reactionary. The data clearly pointed at stability, liberty and personal responsibility as the key properties of a good society. The people had assumed that the machines would confirm their own beliefs in globalism, socialism and so forth. They had never questioned those beliefs, and indeed did not even think that their beliefs were beliefs. The idea that the machine might come up with the 'wrong' answer never occurred to them.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "(to the video screen)\n'This must have created some problems,' the interviewer remarks.\n\n'Oh, well, some. But nothing greatly significant. The simulations\nwere quite repeatable. There were a few cases where independent research got different answers, but these were discredited. I audited their software and traced the differences to software bugs. Coding errors. It turns out that humans are almost as bad at writing software as they are at running a government!'\n\nThe interviewer laughs. 'Is there any link between the two?'\n\n'I think so. Humans... well, all of us... struggle to deal with complexity. When dealing with a complex system, like a country, or a large software program, the temptation is always to assume that you know enough to make an informed guess about what should be done. It is a temptation that must be resisted. Everything must be thoroughly tested before it is allowed to 'go live'. You must do everything you can to avoid destabilising something that used to work.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "(to the video screen)\n'But were there protests?' presses the interviewer.\n\n'Some people will disagree with government no matter what it does. That is fine. They may choose to complain, and we may choose to listen. I think, though, that one reason the intellectuals eventually accepted the new system is that they found themselves in bad company. They now stood alongside deniers and conspiracy theorists, the same people they had once mocked as 'wingnuts' and lunatics for denying the validity of simulation results. Ultimately, they came over to our side out of embarrassment as much as anything. Pretended they had agreed with us all along...'.\n\nThe screen goes blank again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rope", "response": "The red rope blocks access to the museum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the rope", "response": "(first taking the red rope)\nThe red rope will not move at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go under rope", "response": "The rope is not much of a barrier, but presumably it is there for a reason...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the displays", "response": "Which do you mean, the video screen, the nearest display or the rest of the exhibition?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the nearest DISPLAY", "response": "The nearest display is the only one you can read. It forms an introduction to the rest of the exhibition, and it's immediately clear that the theme of the museum has hardly changed since you last visited it. The museum presents the case against the pre-Administration approach to government, known here as 'populism'.\n\nThe display bears a quotation from a political adviser regarding his own government's lack of forward planning. Like all Western governments of its time, that government was completely dominated by concerns about retaining popularity and good public relations. It had no policies as such; rather, it simply reacted to events, attempting to retain the favour of the press and the public.\n\nThis was not limited to one policy area, to one party, or to one government in one country. It was a universal failing. The voters said that they wanted politicians who spoke plainly and stuck to their principles, but if such people actually stood for election, they were quickly rejected, as no principle is universally popular. Consequently the only successful politicians had no principles and never said what they meant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "The corridor turns a corner here, continuing to the north and west. The Security Administrator's office is through a door to the east, and to the south, a short staircase leads downwards to a darkened room.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Liberty' on the north wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "The maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room. There's a message on the console's display.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the badge", "response": "A small plastic ID badge. The badge states: 'Candidate Number 28436'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28436,\n\nThe Administration Centre is under attack. The network is flooded\nby virus packets, and I am unable to do anything other than hold back the flood.\n\nHowever, you can help. By great fortune, you were due to take an\nexam today, and that involved some special measures which have protected you from the attack. Like me, you are connected to an independent system which is unaffected by the virus. But unlike me, you are able to control a maintenance robot. I need you to use that robot to save us.\n\nTake control of the robot via the portal in the Maintenance Room.\nIn the outside world, find a Diagnostic network socket, such as WS4, or perhaps WS2, though I'm not sure that one is working. PLUG a network cable into it, and PLUG the other end into the Central Administrator socket, which is labelled WS3. You might need to find several network cables and JOIN them together: there is a cable joining tool in the old Broadcasting Studio.\n\nand let me run some diagnostics. It may be enough to fight the virus.\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter it", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench (on which is a screwdriver) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are a well-oiled and somewhat noisy maintenance robot. Your robot body has a humanoid configuration - two legs, two arms, and a head, but it could not possibly pass for a human anywhere, not even a sci-fi convention, because the design is so completely functional. There is no skin; tubes, solenoids and wires are exposed along with the metal skeleton. The machine was never designed to leave the bunker - its intended purpose is limited to replacing server parts and installing network gear. A black box is attached to you like a backpack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the screwdriver", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the screwdriver", "response": "A flathead screwdriver with an insulated handle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "The backpack is a large black box attached to the back of your robot body. It contains your physical mind, isolated from the network and power supply of the data centre. The number 28436 is printed on the box in a neat typeface. A second number has been crudely scratched on it: 644358724. The box has a network socket. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the socket", "response": "Which do you mean, Socket WS3 or Socket WS2?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ws2", "response": "The label reads 'Socket WS2 - Diagnostic'. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the workbench", "response": "The workbench has seen better days! The wood is rotten and the legs are very rusty. It looks like decades have passed since anybody used it. There are some tools on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnorth into the charging stations.\nsouth to the Generator Room.\nwest to the Battery Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tools", "response": "Wrenches, a saw, drill bits: all rusted and completely useless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "As you step into the charging station, your robotic form shuts down...\n\nThe maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnortheast into the portal.\nsoutheast to the Lobby.\nwest to the POKE Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the portal", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The blast door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nYou can see a single-length network cable here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ws4", "response": "The label reads 'Socket WS4 - Diagnostic'. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You plug the cable into the robot", "response": "The single-length network cable is already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "This dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS4. The rest of the cable is in your hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnorth to the Data Centre.\neast to the Maintenance Room.\nwest to the Secure Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(letting go of the single-length network cable, as it is plugged into Socket WS4, and it's too short to stretch to another room)\n\nThis room was once an office. Some ancient desks and chairs are cluttered into a corner, and you can see a faded calendar on the wall beside a dusty portrait. There's a doorway to the east and a blast door to the south.\n\nYou can see some old desks and chairs here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "The only exit leads east to the Battery Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine desks", "response": "Old and poor quality. The chairs look uncomfortable and flimsy, while the desks are made of peeling chipboard. This could never have been a pleasant place to work. You see a network cable underneath one of the desks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS4. The rest of the cable lies on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na single-length network cable\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join cable with cable", "response": "That would require a special tool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This large room is filled with racks of black boxes. It seems that many of the internal walls of the bunker were removed in order to make more space. There is just enough room to move between the racks, but not much more. You find doorways leading south, west and northwest. There is a door in the northeast corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnortheast to the Network Room.\nsouth to the Battery Room.\nwest to the Passage.\nnorthwest to the Broadcasting Studio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the racks", "response": "The racks are used to support the black boxes, making them easily accessible for maintenance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine boxes", "response": "The physical minds of thousands of Administration staff. These boxes contain your colleagues and associates. Each box is firmly mounted in a metal rack, bears a five-digit number, and is the same shape as the one you carry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the boxes", "response": "They're fixed in place. In any case, you cannot know whose mind is in each box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine number", "response": "The backpack is a large black box attached to the back of your robot body. It contains your physical mind, isolated from the network and power supply of the data centre. The number 28436 is printed on the box in a neat typeface. A second number has been crudely scratched on it: 644358724. The box has a network socket. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tile", "response": "The floor tile moves slightly when you stand on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the tile", "response": "The floor tile is bulky, but you manage to lift it. This reveals a void underneath the floor. You see a network cable in the void.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cable", "response": "(the single-length network cable)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The mixing desk, soundproof walls and 'On Air' sign in this room tell you that it was originally intended to be used as a broadcasting studio. Now it is being used as a store room for computer parts, which have been stacked up against the walls.\n\nThere is an instruction book on the mixing desk.\n\nYou can also see a satellite uplink kit and a toolbag (which is closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "satellite uplink kit: Taken.\ninstruction book: Taken.\ntoolbag: Taken.\nmixing desk: That's hardly portable.\n'On Air' sign: That's hardly portable.\ncomputer parts: You find nothing that you need there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the instruction book", "response": "The book dates from the 1970s and contains many pages of typewritten instructions which explain how to use the primitive studio facilities. Reading the book makes it clear that this bunker was one of many intended to house 'key personnel' during wartime. It seems it was subsequently repurposed by the Central Administrator as his (physical) home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "The studio equipment is vintage. Given the right buyer, this old analogue gear might be quite valuable. But it's no use to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na toolbag (which is closed)\nan instruction book\na satellite uplink kit\na single-length network cable\na single-length network cable\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the toolbag", "response": "You open the toolbag, revealing a cable joining tool and a single-length network cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join cable with the cable", "response": "The cables are joined, creating two coiled lengths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine kit", "response": "The satellite uplink kit is housed in a heavy case (which is closed). It provides emergency network access via satellite, but can only be used in an area with a clear view of the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na double-length network cable\na toolbag (which is open)\na cable joining tool\na single-length network cable\nan instruction book\na satellite uplink kit\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cable", "response": "(the double-length network cable)\nYou already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at joining", "response": "This tool allows you to JOIN two network cables, or CUT one cable into two sections.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join the cable with the cable", "response": "Which do you mean, the single-length network cable or the double-length network cable?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join the cables", "response": "single-length network cable: The cables are joined, creating three coiled lengths.\ntriple-length network cable: You have no other cable end to join to the triple-length network cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na triple-length network cable\na toolbag (which is open)\na cable joining tool\nan instruction book\na satellite uplink kit\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "This large room is filled with racks of black boxes. It seems that many of the internal walls of the bunker were removed in order to make more space. There is just enough room to move between the racks, but not much more. You find doorways leading south, west and northwest. There is a door in the northeast corner.\n\nYou can see a floor tile here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "As you step into the charging station, your robotic form shuts down...\n\nThe maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room. There's a message on the console's display.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the message", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28436,\n\nI attempted to assess the attack, but network socket WS2 is not working and I can't get through to the diagnostic system.\n\nThere's another network socket in the Battery Room. It is labelled WS4. Please connect that socket to WS3.\n\nYou'll have to join two network cables together, and run them\nbetween the two rooms. You will find a tool for JOINing cables in the old Broadcasting Studio. Join the cables, then connect network sockets WS3 and WS4.\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The cable is in your hand, and is also attached to Socket WS2.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS4. The rest of the cable lies on the floor.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Plug WS4", "response": "Try PLUG CABLE INTO SOCKET. If more than one socket is present, try giving the name of the socket, e.g. WS9.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You plug the cable into the ws4 socket", "response": "The socket is already in use.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "This dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS4. The rest of the cable lies on the floor.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join the cables", "response": "(to the trailing network cable)\nThe cables are joined, creating three coiled lengths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(keeping hold of the trailing network cable)\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The cable is in your hand, and runs west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stations", "response": "The robot body may stand inside one of these in order to recharge its battery. While the robot body is recharging, your mind returns to the Administration Centre.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "As you step into the charging station, your robotic form shuts down...\n\nThe maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room. There's a message on the console's display.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28436,\n\nThankyou, your new connection allowed me to assess the attack.\n\nIt's worse than I thought. We have no external communications at\nall; everything is infected. I need you to make a new connection via a satellite uplink.\n\nOur enemy has discovered the location of our data centre, and will soon attempt to break in. We must act quickly. You will need to open the blast door on the east side of the bunker, and run a cable from socket WS3 to some place where the sky is visible. Set up a satellite uplink unit there, and connect it to the cable. Due to the distance, you will need to join more network cables - probably as many as you can find. Look in the Network Room first. There will be more in other places.\n\nYou will have to explore the caves.\n\nOne more thing. Be careful with the other network sockets. Some of them are flooded by the virus. If you connect them wrongly, it won't damage the Administration, but it might prevent you returning here.\n\nGood luck...\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the keyboard", "response": "The keyboard is built into the console. It doesn't seem to do anything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan identity badge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the badge", "response": "(first getting out of bed)\nA small plastic ID badge. The badge states: 'Candidate Number 28199'.\n\nSomething is certainly wrong! Is this... part of the test? You never found out exactly what the final exam involved. Perhaps it is like this for every candidate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Even at night, you'd expect to see something. The gardens of the Administration Centre, and beyond them, the amphitheatre, the hedge maze and ornamental lake, lit by street lights and moonlight. It never gets completely dark. But today, there's nothing at all. Just total blackness, as if there is a smooth black wall just beyond the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "Even the bed seems wrong. This isn't your duvet and these aren't your pillowcases.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the bed", "response": "[In Final Exam, 'LOOK UNDER' is synonymous with 'EXAMINE'.]\nEven the bed seems wrong. This isn't your duvet and these aren't your pillowcases.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine pillowcases", "response": "Even the bed seems wrong. This isn't your duvet and these aren't your pillowcases.\n\n[You should go out; whatever is going on, you're not going to find any answers here.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "The only exit leads south to the Quadrangle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the portrait", "response": "The painting hangs on the eastern wall. It is an enormous portrait of Edmund Burke, the 18th century writer and politician. The Central Administrator is said to be a fan.\nThe fax machine bleeps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fax", "response": "(the fax machine)\nIt's on the reception desk, where it seems quite out of place next to the modern computer workstations. It's not a printer or a scanner: it's an old-fashioned fax machine that prints onto thin thermal paper. You notice some paper hanging out of the machine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the paper", "response": "[In Final Exam, 'READ' is synonymous with 'EXAMINE'.]\nPoor-quality paper from a fax machine. It reads:\n\n'Dear candidate 28199, please go upstairs to the Observation Gallery where you will find further instructions.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the monitor", "response": "The display is an enormous high-resolution flat-screen monitor, suspended from the gallery ceiling. It shows a message: green text on black background.\n\n'Dear candidate 28199,\n\nYou must be wondering where everyone has gone. Let me explain.\n\nA serious situation has developed, and I have been forced to take emergency steps to isolate the Administration Centre - and ourselves - from the outside world. This isolation prevents my communicating with you normally, and at present I can only do so via this screen. I will explain more in due course.\n\nIn the meantime, I need you to obtain the emergency access card.\nIt's in the museum north of here. It allows you to enter the Maintenance Room, which is northwest of the Lobby. Then POKE 411251181. Afterwards, please return here for further instructions.\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The corridor turns a corner here, continuing to the north and west. The Security Administrator's office is through a door to the east, and to the south, a short staircase leads downwards to a darkened room.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Liberty' on the north wall.\n\nThis is the Administration Centre's museum. It's a vast hall, stretching far away to the north and east. It is currently closed and in darkness. A red rope blocks passage to the north and east. Light is coming from the corridor to the south and faintly from a blank video screen just beyond the rope. Exhibition displays fill the room, most too far away into the dark to be readable.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Responsibility' on the west wall.\n\nYou can see a glass case containing an access card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break case", "response": "The glass shatters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28199,\n\nYou must be wondering where everyone has gone. Let me explain.\n\nA serious situation has developed, and I have been forced to take emergency steps to isolate the Administration Centre - and ourselves - from the outside world. This isolation prevents my communicating with you normally, and at present I can only do so via this screen. I will explain more in due course.\n\nIn the meantime, I need you to obtain the emergency access card.\nThen go west from the Maintenance Room and POKE 411251181. Afterwards, please return here for further instructions.\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are standing within core memory, completely surrounded by the raw, working elements of a vast machine. Lights pulsate and flicker all around you: the effect is like wandering around within your own brain. You can see 4,294,967,295 buttons here. A door leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room. There's a message on the console's display.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28199,\n\nThe Administration Centre is under attack. The network is flooded\nby virus packets, and I am unable to do anything other than hold back the flood.\n\nHowever, you can help. By great fortune, you were due to take an\nexam today, and that involved some special measures which have protected you from the attack. Like me, you are connected to an independent system which is unaffected by the virus. But unlike me, you are able to control a maintenance robot. I need you to use that robot to save us.\n\nTake control of the robot via the portal in the Maintenance Room.\nIn the outside world, find a Diagnostic network socket, such as WS4, or perhaps WS2, though I'm not sure that one is working. PLUG a network cable into it, and PLUG the other end into the Central Administrator socket, which is labelled WS3. You might need to find several network cables and JOIN them together: there is a cable joining tool in the old Broadcasting Studio.\n\nand let me run some diagnostics. It may be enough to fight the virus.\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the green door", "response": "It's a small green door in the northwest corner of the room, under the staircase. The word 'MAINTENANCE' is written faintly on the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnorth to the Quadrangle.\nnorthwest to the Maintenance Room.\nup to the Mezzanine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You discover that the door to the residential wing has locked behind you. You cannot return to the bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The doors in that direction are locked. The only exit leads south to the Lobby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "Which do you mean, the rows of workstation desks or the raised central platform?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Central", "response": "It's a large desk in the middle of the room, directly below the model of the Earth. At times of crisis, the Central Administrator and his assistants may direct operations from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rows", "response": "The Administrators do much of their work here. Each desk is assigned to some small region of the world, with physically adjacent regions occupying adjacent desks in this room. The workstations allow situations to be analysed, resources to be allocated, and Administration decisions to be sent to the outside world. The layout of the room makes it easy to coordinate with neighbours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine africa", "response": "That part of the world is independent from the Administration.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "The only exit leads west to the Corridor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the Administration Centre's museum. It's a vast hall, stretching far away to the north and east. It is currently closed and in darkness. A red rope blocks passage to the north and east. Light is coming from the corridor to the south and faintly from a blank video screen just beyond the rope. Exhibition displays fill the room, most too far away into the dark to be readable.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Responsibility' on the west wall.\n\nYou can also see a glass case (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The rope is not much of a barrier, but presumably it is there for a reason...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the screen", "response": "The video screen is blank but producing a faint light. You notice a sticky label on the side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the label", "response": "There's a message on the label: 'Keeps breaking. 495147333 to reset.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You can't go that way. The only exit leads east to the Maintenance Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plaque", "response": "It's one of three such plaques: the others are to the north and west. Each briefly describes one of the three values of the Administration: Stability, Liberty, and Responsibility. Exams are highly likely to involve essays on interactions between the three, but it never hurts to revise a little more, so you read the description below the word:\n\n'Administrators have a duty to uphold freedom of speech, thought and conscience, along with processes to prevent injustice such as jury trial. No person may be punished for holding opinions, however disagreeable these opinions may be. As Queen Elizabeth I famously said,", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the Administration Centre's museum. It's a vast hall, stretching far away to the north and east. It is currently closed and in darkness. A red rope blocks passage to the north and east. Light is coming from the corridor to the south and faintly from a blank video screen just beyond the rope. Exhibition displays fill the room, most too far away into the dark to be readable.\n\nThere's a plaque bearing the word 'Responsibility' on the west wall.\n\nYou can also see a glass case (which is empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The door in that direction is locked. Exits lead:\nnorth to the Quadrangle.\nnorthwest to the Maintenance Room.\nup to the Mezzanine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "The backpack is a large black box attached to the back of your robot body. It contains your physical mind, isolated from the network and power supply of the data centre. The number 28199 is printed on the box in a neat typeface. A second number has been crudely scratched on it: 856414854. The box has a network socket. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine station", "response": "The robot body may stand inside one of these in order to recharge its battery. While the robot body is recharging, your mind returns to the Administration Centre.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the screwdriver", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This room contains disused electrical equipment, much of it now buried under an assortment of junk.\n\nThere's a rusty metal switch marked 'Blast Door' on the north wall.\n\nYou can also see a heap of junk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the junk", "response": "All of this junk seems to have been cleared away from other parts of the facility. It's mostly spartan furniture: bunk beds, mattresses, desks and chairs. You see a network cable amongst the junk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cable", "response": "You are holding a single length of network cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the junk", "response": "All of this junk seems to have been cleared away from other parts of the facility. It's mostly spartan furniture: bunk beds, mattresses, desks and chairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine generator", "response": "You see a diesel generator and switching gear. A mercury rectifier lurks in the shadows like something from Frankenstein's laboratory. It's all antiquated, rusty, and completely beyond use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the station", "response": "As you step into the charging station, your robotic form shuts down...\n\nThe maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room. There's a message on the console's display.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28199,\n\nI attempted to assess the attack, but network socket WS2 is not working and I can't get through to the diagnostic system.\n\nThere's another network socket in the Battery Room. It is labelled WS4. Please connect that socket to WS3.\n\nYou'll have to join two network cables together, and run them\nbetween the two rooms. You will find a tool for JOINing cables in the old Broadcasting Studio. Join the cables, then connect network sockets WS3 and WS4.\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\n'Idiots' Guide to Writing Malware and Viruses'\nan access card\nan identity badge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the portal", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The cable is in your hand, and is also attached to Socket WS2.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na single-length network cable (plugged into Socket WS3)\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the cable", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the batteries", "response": "There are hundreds of rechargeable batteries, all mounted in metal racks. They provide electricity for the facility when mains power is not available.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na single-length network cable\na single-length network cable\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This passage is blocked because the roof has collapsed. There's a pile of rubble to the west, preventing any further progress in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rubble", "response": "The ceiling has collapsed, blocking the passage with a pile of rubble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "A network engineer's toolbag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sign", "response": "The sign lights up when the studio is broadcasting.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The mixing desk, soundproof walls and 'On Air' sign in this room tell you that it was originally intended to be used as a broadcasting studio. Now it is being used as a store room for computer parts, which have been stacked up against the walls.\n\nThere is an instruction book on the mixing desk.\n\nYou can also see a satellite uplink kit here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at parts", "response": "Neat stacks of identical boxes, factory-sealed. You see motherboards, power supplies and storage units - all spare parts for the data centre.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "It's hard to move around with all these short network cables! [Consider JOINing some of them together.]\n\nThis large room is filled with racks of black boxes. It seems that many of the internal walls of the bunker were removed in order to make more space. There is just enough room to move between the racks, but not much more. You find doorways leading south, west and northwest. There is a door in the northeast corner.\n\nYou can see a floor tile here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This room was once an office. Some ancient desks and chairs are cluttered into a corner, and you can see a faded calendar on the wall beside a dusty portrait. There's a doorway to the east and a blast door to the south.\n\nYou can see some old desks and chairs here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the portrait", "response": "It's a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, covered in dust and dirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine calendar", "response": "The year is 1990. Maybe that was the last time this room was used as an office.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the portrait", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na single-length network cable\na single-length network cable\na single-length network cable\na single-length network cable\na toolbag (which is open)\na cable joining tool\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine blast", "response": "A very heavy metal door, set in the south wall. It is closed. A number has been scratched onto the door: 303738162.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "It's hard to move around with all these short network cables! [Consider JOINing some of them together.]\n\nThis dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable lies on the floor.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blast", "response": "A very heavy metal door, set in the east wall and wide enough for a car. It is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tool", "response": "(the cable joining tool)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join the cables", "response": "single-length network cable: The cables are joined, creating two coiled lengths.\nsingle-length network cable: The cables are joined, creating three coiled lengths.\nsingle-length network cable: The cables are joined, creating four coiled lengths.\nsingle-length network cable: The cables are joined, creating five coiled lengths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na quintuple-length network cable (plugged into Socket WS3)\na cable joining tool\na toolbag (which is open but empty)\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(keeping hold of the trailing network cable)\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The cable is in your hand, and runs west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28199,\n\nThankyou, your new connection allowed me to assess the attack.\n\nIt's worse than I thought. We have no external communications at\nall; everything is infected. I need you to make a new connection via a satellite uplink.\n\nOur enemy has discovered the location of our data centre, and will soon attempt to break in. We must act quickly. You will need to open the blast door on the east side of the bunker, and run a cable from socket WS3 to some place where the sky is visible. Set up a satellite uplink unit there, and connect it to the cable. Due to the distance, you will need to join more network cables - probably as many as you can find. Look in the Network Room first. There will be more in other places.\n\nYou will have to explore the caves.\n\nOne more thing. Be careful with the other network sockets. Some of them are flooded by the virus. If you connect them wrongly, it won't damage the Administration, but it might prevent you returning here.\n\nGood luck...\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the portal", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The cable is in your hand, and runs west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "(keeping hold of the trailing network cable)\n\nThis dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS4. The cable is in your hand, and runs east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(collecting the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is closed).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable is in your hand.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis room contains disused electrical equipment, much of it now buried under an assortment of junk.\n\nThere's a rusty metal switch marked 'Blast Door' on the north wall.\n\nYou can also see a heap of junk here.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs north from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the switch", "response": "A large metal switch. A faded label reads 'Blast Door'. The switch lever has broken off. The casing is held shut by a large flathead screw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unscrew the casing with the screwdriver", "response": "The switch casing swings open, revealing the switch mechanism.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mechanism", "response": "A large metal switch. A faded label reads 'Blast Door'. The switch lever has broken off. The casing is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "(collecting the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable is in your hand.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "As you step into the charging station, your robotic form shuts down...\n\nThe maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room. There's a message on the console's display.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You can't go that way. Exits lead:\nnortheast into the portal.\nsoutheast to the Lobby.\nwest to the POKE Room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "[It looks like there is an important message on the console. Maybe you should EXAMINE DISPLAY before doing anything else.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the DISPLAY", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28199,\n\nIt's worse than I thought. We have no external communications at\nall; everything is infected. I need you to make a new connection via a satellite uplink.\n\nOur enemy has discovered the location of our data centre, and will soon attempt to break in. We must act quickly. You will need to run a cable from socket WS3 to some place where the sky is visible. Set up a satellite uplink unit there, and connect it to the cable. Due to the distance, you will need to join more network cables - probably as many as you can find. Look in the Network Room first. There will be more in other places.\n\nYou will have to explore the caves.\n\nOne more thing. Be careful with the other network sockets. Some of them are flooded by the virus. If you connect them wrongly, it won't damage the Administration, but it might prevent you returning here.\n\nGood luck...\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable is in your hand.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis large room is filled with racks of black boxes. It seems that many of the internal walls of the bunker were removed in order to make more space. There is just enough room to move between the racks, but not much more. You find doorways leading south, west and northwest. There is a door in the northeast corner.\n\nYou can see a floor tile here.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs south from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThe mixing desk, soundproof walls and 'On Air' sign in this room tell you that it was originally intended to be used as a broadcasting studio. Now it is being used as a store room for computer parts, which have been stacked up against the walls.\n\nThere is an instruction book on the mixing desk.\n\nYou can also see a satellite uplink kit here.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs southeast from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "(collecting the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis large room is filled with racks of black boxes. It seems that many of the internal walls of the bunker were removed in order to make more space. There is just enough room to move between the racks, but not much more. You find doorways leading south, west and northwest. There is a door in the northeast corner.\n\nYou can see a floor tile here.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs south from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "(collecting the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(collecting the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable is in your hand.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nYou're in the southwest corner of a large cave. The walls of this cave are part natural limestone, and part slimy concrete, covered in decades of algae growth. To the west, you see the back entrance of the bunker, which is a wide door set into a concrete wall. The wall stretches north; the cave expands to the north and east.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're in the southwest corner of a large cave. The walls of this cave are part natural limestone, and part slimy concrete, covered in decades of algae growth. To the west, you see the back entrance of the bunker, which is a wide door set into a concrete wall. The wall stretches north; the cave expands to the north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "A very heavy metal door, set in the west wall and wide enough for a car. It is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You're on the eastern edge of a large cave. The rocky ceiling is low here, and underneath its lowest point, a crawl tunnel leads northeast. A narrow passage leads southeast and the cave widens to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a path on the north side of an underground river which flows through the cave here. The river level is too high to allow passage in any direction except through a narrow passage to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "The underground river flows from west to east. The rate of flow is extremely rapid and the water looks very dangerous. It disappears under the eastern wall of the cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "You are crawling through a very low, uneven passage that runs from southwest to east. It is fortunate that you do not need to breathe, because there is no space for breathing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You stand in a dry, circular cavern that forms a junction between three passages. The passages to the north and east are wide and tall. A crawl tunnel leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are at the western end of a long, damp cavern that stretches east. A wide tunnel leads south, and a passage leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in the north end of a large cave, standing beside a chasm which blocks passage to the south. The chasm was once spanned by a footbridge, but it collapsed years ago. On the other side of the chasm, you see the wall of the bunker. Passages lead east and northwest.\n\nThere is a cabinet here. A narrow conduit runs from the cabinet to the bunker on the other side of the chasm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cabinet", "response": "A rusty metal box which has probably been here since the bunker was built. It's about the size and shape of a gym locker. A sign on the door reads 'GPO Telephones'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "Opening the cabinet reveals some modern networking gear, and Network Socket Z5. You see a network cable inside the cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gear", "response": "The label reads 'Socket Z5 - Unfiltered'. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chasm", "response": "A wide and deep chasm. You can't see the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at conduit", "response": "The conduit is a rectangular plastic pipe, a few inches in diameter, and it's bolted to the western cave wall. It seems to be filled with wires which run from the bunker wall to the cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You are at the foot of a round concrete shaft, which was once filled with a spiral staircase, apparently an emergency exit from the bunker. The staircase collapsed years ago, and is now just a heap of wreckage at the bottom of the shaft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "The staircase is completely unusable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You're in the north end of a large cave, standing beside a chasm which blocks passage to the south. The chasm was once spanned by a footbridge, but it collapsed years ago. On the other side of the chasm, you see the wall of the bunker. Passages lead east and northwest.\n\nThere is a cabinet here. A narrow conduit runs from the cabinet to the bunker on the other side of the chasm.\n\nNetwork Socket Z5 is inside the cabinet. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are near the eastern end of a long, damp cavern. Much of the floor of the cavern is covered by a pool of dark, still, brackish water. A passage leads southwest.\n\nYou can see a plastic float near the edge of the pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nsouthwest to the Fork.\nwest to the Damp Cavern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the float", "response": "It's the sort of thing that a lifeguard might carry at a beach. The float is made of red plastic, though it's become grimy and discoloured. The float has a reinforced hole at one end for attaching a rope.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "You are near the eastern end of a long, damp cavern. Much of the floor of the cavern is covered by a pool of dark, still, brackish water. A passage leads southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "The passage divides in three directions here: west, northeast, and southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You stand in a dry, circular cavern that forms a junction between three passages. The passages to the north and east are wide and tall. A crawl tunnel leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are crawling through a very low, uneven passage that runs from east to southwest. It is fortunate that you do not need to breathe, because there is no space for breathing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "You're on the eastern edge of a large cave. The rocky ceiling is low here, and underneath its lowest point, a crawl tunnel leads northeast. A narrow passage leads southeast and the cave widens to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're in the southwest corner of a large cave. The walls of this cave are part natural limestone, and part slimy concrete, covered in decades of algae growth. To the west, you see the back entrance of the bunker, which is a wide door set into a concrete wall. The wall stretches north; the cave expands to the north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're in the middle of a large cave which runs northeast and south, standing near the corner of the concrete wall of the bunker, which is to the southwest. A wide chasm spans the cave here, preventing passage to the north. The chasm was once spanned by a footbridge, but it collapsed years ago, and only a few rusted girders remain. A narrow conduit, bolted to the western cave wall, runs from the bunker to a cabinet on the other side of the chasm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at conduit", "response": "The conduit is a rectangular plastic pipe, a few inches in diameter, and it's bolted to the western cave wall. It seems to be filled with wires which run from the bunker wall to the cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bunker wall", "response": "It is the outer wall of the bunker. It is as tall as the cave and made entirely of reinforced concrete, stained a slimy green colour by decades of damp and algae growth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bridge", "response": "All that remains of the footbridge are a few rusted girders on each side of the chasm. Over decades, the moisture in these caverns must have eroded the bridge, until it broke under its own weight and disappeared into the darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chasm", "response": "A wide and deep chasm. You can't see the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a rocky outcrop on the north side of an underground lake. The lake is bridged by a large metal pipe, which crosses the water to a small muddy beach on the far side. You hear a waterfall to the west. A passage leads northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pipe", "response": "The pipe is made from rusty iron, and is around eight inches in diameter. It looks like a waste pipe. It spans the lake, and seems to be strong enough to use as a bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You start to cross the lake by walking along the pipe, but you struggle to balance because of the weight and bulk of the satellite uplink kit. If you want to cross, you'll either have to drop that, or drop almost everything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You cautiously cross the lake by walking along the pipe...\n\nYou stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mud", "response": "The ground here is muddy, wet clay.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're standing on some slippery rocks to the south of a waterfall. An underground river emerges from high on the western wall here, forming a magnificent waterfall, then flowing away to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the waterfall", "response": "The water emerges from the western wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "Which do you mean, the underground lake or the waterfall?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lake", "response": "The water foams at the base of the waterfall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "The only exit leads east to the Lake Beach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You cautiously cross the lake by walking along the pipe...\n\nYou're standing on a rocky outcrop on the north side of an underground lake. The lake is bridged by a large metal pipe, which crosses the water to a small muddy beach on the far side. You hear a waterfall to the west. A passage leads northwest.\n\nYou can see a satellite uplink kit here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up", "response": "The walls and roof of the cave are formed from limestone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable forms a coil on the floor.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na single-length network cable\na satellite uplink kit\na plastic float\nan instruction book\na cable joining tool\na toolbag (which is open but empty)\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join the cable", "response": "The cables are joined, creating six coiled lengths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na sextuple-length network cable (plugged into Socket WS3)\na satellite uplink kit\na plastic float\nan instruction book\na cable joining tool\na toolbag (which is open but empty)\na screwdriver\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable forms a coil on the floor.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This room was once an office. Some ancient desks and chairs are cluttered into a corner, and you can see a faded calendar on the wall beside a dusty portrait. There's a doorway to the east and a blast door to the south.\n\nYou can see some old desks and chairs here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "A very heavy metal door, set in the south wall. It is closed. A number has been scratched onto the door: 303738162.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The blast door is firmly closed. It can only be opened electronically. The controls must be elsewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You plug the cable into the box", "response": "(first taking the sextuple-length network cable)\nThe sextuple-length network cable is now plugged into the black box. The connection is established, and your robotic form shuts down...\n\nThe maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28199,\n\nIt's worse than I thought. We have no external communications at\nall; everything is infected. I need you to make a new connection via a satellite uplink.\n\nOur enemy has discovered the location of our data centre, and will soon attempt to break in. We must act quickly. You will need to run a cable from socket WS3 to some place where the sky is visible. Set up a satellite uplink unit there, and connect it to the cable. Due to the distance, you will need to join more network cables - probably as many as you can find. Look in the Network Room first. There will be more in other places.\n\nYou will have to explore the caves.\n\nOne more thing. Be careful with the other network sockets. Some of them are flooded by the virus. If you connect them wrongly, it won't damage the Administration, but it might prevent you returning here.\n\nGood luck...\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the portal", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable is in your hand.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nYou're in the middle of a large cave which runs northeast and south, standing near the corner of the concrete wall of the bunker, which is to the southwest. A wide chasm spans the cave here, preventing passage to the north. The chasm was once spanned by a footbridge, but it collapsed years ago, and only a few rusted girders remain. A narrow conduit, bolted to the western cave wall, runs from the bunker to a cabinet on the other side of the chasm.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs south from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the cable north", "response": "The cable lands on the other side of the chasm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You can't go that way. Exits lead:\nsoutheast to the Low Ceiling.\nsouth to the Back Entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The bridge is gone: you will have to find another way around the chasm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "(keeping hold of the trailing network cable)\n\nYou're in the southwest corner of a large cave. The walls of this cave are part natural limestone, and part slimy concrete, covered in decades of algae growth. To the west, you see the back entrance of the bunker, which is a wide door set into a concrete wall. The wall stretches north; the cave expands to the north and east.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs north and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in the north end of a large cave, standing beside a chasm which blocks passage to the south. The chasm was once spanned by a footbridge, but it collapsed years ago. On the other side of the chasm, you see the wall of the bunker. Passages lead east and northwest.\n\nThere is a cabinet here. A narrow conduit runs from the cabinet to the bunker on the other side of the chasm.\n\nNetwork Socket Z5 is inside the cabinet. The socket is not in use.\n\nA network cable crosses the chasm: it runs south from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(letting go of the trailing network cable as it is still plugged into Socket Z5)\n\nYou are at the western end of a long, damp cavern that stretches east. A wide tunnel leads south, and a passage leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in the southwest corner of a large cave. The walls of this cave are part natural limestone, and part slimy concrete, covered in decades of algae growth. To the west, you see the back entrance of the bunker, which is a wide door set into a concrete wall. The wall stretches north; the cave expands to the north and east.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs north and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The cable runs east.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a satellite uplink kit and a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "As you step into the charging station, your robotic form shuts down...\n\nThe maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room. The console's display is filled with line noise, and a red light is flashing.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display is filled with random characters and weird flashing colours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the red light", "response": "It's on the console beside the display. The light is marked 'Network Flood'. The light is flashing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the portal", "response": "As you step into the portal, you take on physical form. You now find yourself standing in the outside world, in the metallic form of a maintenance robot...\n\nThis is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The cable runs east.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a satellite uplink kit and a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "As you step into the charging station, your robotic form shuts down...\n\nThe maintenance room is a round room with a low ceiling. The walls are made of shiny brushed metal, giving an impression of 1970s science fiction. Doors lead west and southeast. You see a warning sign on the western door.\n\nThere is a console in the centre of the room.\n\nA portal occupies most of the northeast wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the console", "response": "The console is on a pedestal in the centre of the room. There is a display and a keyboard. The display shows a message:\n\n'Dear candidate 28199,\n\nIt's worse than I thought. We have no external communications at\nall; everything is infected. I need you to make a new connection via a satellite uplink.\n\nOur enemy has discovered the location of our data centre, and will soon attempt to break in. We must act quickly. You will need to run a cable from socket WS3 to some place where the sky is visible. Set up a satellite uplink unit there, and connect it to the cable. Due to the distance, you will need to join more network cables - probably as many as you can find. Look in the Network Room first. There will be more in other places.\n\nYou will have to explore the caves.\n\nOne more thing. Be careful with the other network sockets. Some of them are flooded by the virus. If you connect them wrongly, it won't damage the Administration, but it might prevent you returning here.\n\nGood luck...\n\nYours,\nCentral Administrator.'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "There is no space to turn around: the only way is east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You can't go that way. Exits lead:\neast to the Dry Cave.\nsouthwest to the Low Ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the float in the river", "response": "The float is sucked under the water by a powerful current.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You're standing on some slippery rocks to the south of a waterfall. An underground river emerges from high on the western wall here, forming a magnificent waterfall, then flowing away to the east.\n\nOn the underground lake is a plastic float.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Exits lead:\nnorth to the Lakeside View.\neast to the Ladder Bottom.\nwest to the Waterfall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are in a tall, round cave, like the bottom of a well. A pipe runs from the passage to the west and through an iron grating to the east. A ladder leads upwards to a manhole cover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the grating", "response": "The grating is old, but very solid, and it completely blocks all passage to the east. Only the pipe passes through it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pipe", "response": "The pipe is made from rusty iron, and is around eight inches in diameter. It looks like a waste pipe. It runs from the tunnel to the west and passes through a heavy iron grating to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Ladder", "response": "The ladder is bolted to the wall of the cave and leads upwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cover", "response": "The manhole cover is at the top of the ladder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cover", "response": "You open the manhole cover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "You're standing in the ruins of a farmhouse. The roof is gone, and some of the walls have collapsed. Thick brambles surround the ruin, blocking passage in all directions. It is early morning, and the remains of the building look beautiful in the dawn light. The air is filled with birdsong. A manhole leads down into the caves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the brambles", "response": "They are wild, prickly and tangled shrubs. They surround the farmhouse and block passage in all directions.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downward", "response": "You are in a tall, round cave, like the bottom of a well. A pipe runs from the passage to the west and through an iron grating to the east. There's a faint light from above. A ladder leads upwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You cautiously cross the lake by walking along the pipe...\n\nYou're standing on a rocky outcrop on the north side of an underground lake. The lake is bridged by a large metal pipe, which crosses the water to a small muddy beach on the far side. You hear a waterfall to the west. A passage leads northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The rest of the cable forms a coil on the floor.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a satellite uplink kit and a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cable", "response": "You see six coiled lengths of network cable. The cable is plugged into Socket WS3.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nYou're in the southwest corner of a large cave. The walls of this cave are part natural limestone, and part slimy concrete, covered in decades of algae growth. To the west, you see the back entrance of the bunker, which is a wide door set into a concrete wall. The wall stretches north; the cave expands to the north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nYou're on the eastern edge of a large cave. The rocky ceiling is low here, and underneath its lowest point, a crawl tunnel leads northeast. A narrow passage leads southeast and the cave widens to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nYou're standing on a path on the north side of an underground river which flows through the cave here. The river level is too high to allow passage in any direction except through a narrow passage to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the float in the river", "response": "The float is sucked under the water by a powerful current. The trailing network cable is dragged along with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the kit in the river", "response": "It would be lost forever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cable", "response": "Pulling the trailing network cable might damage it! (However, the cable may be CUT.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You can't go that way. The only exit leads northwest to the Low Ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "(keeping hold of the trailing network cable)\n\nYou're on the eastern edge of a large cave. The rocky ceiling is low here, and underneath its lowest point, a crawl tunnel leads northeast. A narrow passage leads southeast and the cave widens to the west.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs southeast and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You're standing on some slippery rocks to the south of a waterfall. An underground river emerges from high on the western wall here, forming a magnificent waterfall, then flowing away to the east.\n\nOn the underground lake is a plastic float.\n\nA network cable passes through the waterfall. It is tied to the plastic float.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nYou stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(letting go of the trailing network cable, as it is tied to the plastic float, and it's too short to stretch to another room) (dropping the plastic float as the trailing network cable is still tied to it)\n\nYou are in a tall, round cave, like the bottom of a well. A pipe runs from the passage to the west and through an iron grating to the east. There's a faint light from above. A ladder leads upwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.\n\nYou can see a plastic float here. A cable is tied to the plastic float. The cable runs west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the float", "response": "You already have that.\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(letting go of the trailing network cable, as you have none left)\n\nYou are in a tall, round cave, like the bottom of a well. A pipe runs from the passage to the west and through an iron grating to the east. There's a faint light from above. A ladder leads upwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You're on the eastern edge of a large cave. The rocky ceiling is low here, and underneath its lowest point, a crawl tunnel leads northeast. A narrow passage leads southeast and the cave widens to the west.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs southeast and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You're in the southwest corner of a large cave. The walls of this cave are part natural limestone, and part slimy concrete, covered in decades of algae growth. To the west, you see the back entrance of the bunker, which is a wide door set into a concrete wall. The wall stretches north; the cave expands to the north and east.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs east and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is a cold and dirty room with concrete walls and an oily floor. There are no windows - the room is deep underground - and the only light comes from aged, flickering fluorescent tubes. There's another room to the south and a doorway to the west. Much of the eastern wall is taken up by a blast door (which is open).\n\nNetwork Socket WS3 is on the south wall. A cable is plugged into Socket WS3. The cable runs east.\n\nNetwork Socket WS2 is on the north wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nThere are two charging stations on the north side of the room, each large enough to accommodate your robotic body.\n\nYou can also see a workbench here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This dingy concrete room is filled with racks of batteries, providing backup power for the facility. There are doorways to the north, east and west.\n\nNetwork Socket WS4 is on the south wall. The socket is not in use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The door is in the northeast corner. It bears an old sign: 'GPO Room'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "This is where network links enter the bunker. The room is filled with racks of network equipment with brightly flashing lights. A door leads southwest.\n\nYou can see a twitching maintenance robot here. A cable is plugged into the black box attached to the maintenance robot. The cable is also attached to Socket WS1.\n\nNetwork Socket WS1 is on the east wall.\n\nYou can see a single-length network cable here.\n\nYou can also see some glass cabinets here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the robot", "response": "(the broken maintenance robot)\nThe robot is obviously malfunctioning. It lies on the floor, twitching violently as if having a fit. In other respects, the robot looks just like 'you': it has a humanoid body just like your own, and is plainly intended to maintain the systems in the bunker. There's a black box attached to the robot like a backpack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unplug the broken robot", "response": "The broken robot stops twitching.\n\nThe single-length network cable is now unplugged from the black box attached to the maintenance robot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "(the black box attached to the maintenance robot)\nThe backpack is a large black box attached to the back of the broken robot, containing his physical mind. There's a number printed on the box, 40189, and a name: 'Maurice'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the box", "response": "(the black box attached to the maintenance robot)\nThe poor robot has suffered enough!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ws1", "response": "The label reads 'Socket WS1 - Unfiltered'. A cable is plugged into Socket WS1. The rest of the cable is in your hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cabinets", "response": "Dozens of glass-fronted cabinets filled with modern networking gear. You can see many network cables in the cabinets, but they're mostly very short, just long enough to connect one router to another. However, you notice one cable at the bottom of one cabinet, apparently unconnected, and just within reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cable", "response": "Which do you mean, the single-length network cable or a single-length network cable?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cables", "response": "single-length network cable: Taken.\nsingle-length network cable: Taken.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is where network links enter the bunker. The room is filled with racks of network equipment with brightly flashing lights. A door leads southwest.\n\nYou can see a broken maintenance robot here.\n\nNetwork Socket WS1 is on the east wall. The socket is not in use.\n\nYou can also see some glass cabinets here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lights", "response": "Dozens of glass-fronted cabinets filled with modern networking gear. You can see many network cables in the cabinets, but they're mostly very short, just long enough to connect one router to another.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You cautiously cross the lake by walking along the pipe...\n\nYou stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in a tall, round cave, like the bottom of a well. A pipe runs from the passage to the west and through an iron grating to the east. There's a faint light from above. A ladder leads upwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join the cables", "response": "trailing network cable: The cables are joined, creating two coiled lengths.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "You stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na trailing network cable (runs west from here)\na single-length network cable\na single-length network cable\na plastic float\na toolbag (which is open)\na screwdriver\nan instruction book\na cable joining tool\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You join the cables", "response": "trailing network cable: The cables are joined, creating three coiled lengths.\ntrailing network cable: The cables are joined, creating four coiled lengths.\ntrailing network cable: You have no other cable end to join to the trailing network cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na trailing network cable (runs west from here)\na plastic float\na toolbag (which is open)\na screwdriver\nan instruction book\na cable joining tool\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nYou are in a tall, round cave, like the bottom of a well. A pipe runs from the passage to the west and through an iron grating to the east. There's a faint light from above. A ladder leads upwards.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "(laying the trailing network cable as you go)\n\nYou're standing in the ruins of a farmhouse. The roof is gone, and some of the walls have collapsed. Thick brambles surround the ruin, blocking passage in all directions. It is early morning, and the remains of the building look beautiful in the dawn light. The air is filled with birdsong. A manhole leads down into the caves.\n\nYou are holding a trailing network cable. The cable runs down from here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You are in a tall, round cave, like the bottom of a well. A pipe runs from the passage to the west and through an iron grating to the east. There's a faint light from above. A ladder leads upwards.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs up and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs east and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You can't go that way. Exits lead:\nnorth to the Damp Cavern.\neast to the Fork.\nwest to the Crawl Tunnel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a path on the north side of an underground river which flows through the cave here. The river level is too high to allow passage in any direction except through a narrow passage to the northwest.\n\nA network cable runs out of the narrow passage and disappears into the river.\n\nYou can also see a satellite uplink kit here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "satellite uplink kit: Dropped.\nplastic float: Dropped.\ntoolbag: Dropped.\nblack box: The black box contains your mind. If you disconnect it, you die.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You start to cross the lake by walking along the pipe, and you nearly lose your balance on several occasions, but luckily you make it to the other side...\n\nYou stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs east and west from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You cautiously cross the lake by walking along the pipe...\n\nYou're standing on a rocky outcrop on the north side of an underground lake. The lake is bridged by a large metal pipe, which crosses the water to a small muddy beach on the far side. You hear a waterfall to the west. A passage leads northwest.\n\nYou can see a plastic float here.\n\nYou can also see a toolbag (in which are a screwdriver, an instruction book and a cable joining tool) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "toolbag: Taken.\nplastic float: Taken.\nmetal pipe: That's hardly portable.\nunderground lake: That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You cautiously cross the lake by walking along the pipe...\n\nYou stand on a muddy beach on the south side of an underground lake. The lake occupies almost all of the cave, leaving only this beach and a path to the west. The lake is bridged by a pipe here - it comes from a passage to the east, and then runs across the lake to the north. The cave is filled with the sound of a waterfall.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs east and west from here.\n\nYou can also see a satellite uplink kit here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You're standing in the ruins of a farmhouse. The roof is gone, and some of the walls have collapsed. Thick brambles surround the ruin, blocking passage in all directions. It is early morning, and the remains of the building look beautiful in the dawn light. The air is filled with birdsong. A manhole leads down into the caves.\n\nYou can see a trailing network cable here. The cable runs down from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "The uplink kit automatically unfolds a small satellite dish and locks on to a satellite.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dish", "response": "The satellite uplink kit is housed in a heavy case (which is open). Within it, you see a small satellite dish and a network socket. It provides emergency network access via satellite. The status panel on the uplink kit shows that satellite communications are working, but there is no data link yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You plug the cable to the Socket", "response": "(first taking the trailing network cable)\nThe status panel on the uplink kit lights up as the connection is established! The trailing network cable is now plugged into the uplink socket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na trailing network cable (plugged into the uplink socket and runs\ndown from here)\na plastic float\na toolbag (which is open)\na screwdriver\nan instruction book\na cable joining tool\na black box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "As you step into the charging station, your robotic form shuts down...\n\nSunshine streams through the windows of the lobby. The Central Administrator and a few other senior staff are waiting to congratulate you. You have passed your final exam. There is a brief round of hand-shaking and back-patting.\n\n'I am sorry it was a little unorthodox,' the Central\nAdministrator begins. 'It's normally just a three-hour viva. But I think we can skip that, under the circumstances.\n\n'Let me introduce you to the new Security Administrator. I had\nthought that the attack came from outside, but it turns out to have been something of a palace coup. There's been a reshuffle.\n\n'The guilty party deserves a second chance, I think, but will not\nbe returning to a position of any responsibility.\n\n'But, the good news: I've found you a job in Simulation. It will be ideally suited to the skills and capabilities you ably demonstrated today.'\n\nThe new Security Administrator leads you up the stairs to introduce you to your new co-workers.\n\nYour life as an Administrator has begun.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "parser", "Parsercomp 2021", "walkthrough" ]

[ 1, 2, 4, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You were driving home from the Second National Conference on Acid Rain when you started getting tired. As it was late at night and you were in the middle of nowhere, you pulled over to the side of the road for a bit of shut-eye.\n\nWhen you wake up, you find that it's dark and dismal outside and raining heavily. You'd better get a move on and get the car under cover. Despite all the protective coating you've applied, acid rain can still make a mess of your duco.\n\nCopyright © 2021 Garry Francis\nType ABOUT for further info and credits.\n\nYou're inside your car. The dashboard is dark and the engine is off. It's dark and raining outside. You feel like there's something odd about the rain. The only exit is out.\n\nIn the ignition is your car key.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You turn key", "response": "The starter motor gives a brief whir, then stops. You try again. Click. Nothing happens. Click. Still nothing happens. Darn. Sounds like a flat battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the key", "response": "Click. Nothing happens. Click. Still nothing happens. Darn. Sounds like a flat battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "Your car is parked at the side of a lonely country road. The nearest town is miles away. As you were driving west before you pulled over, you can go west to the front of the car or east to the back of the car. The rain is pelting down. It's dark and dismal, but you can barely make out an old mansion silhouetted against the night sky to the south.\n\nThe acid rain falls on your exposed head and body, drips down your neck and eats through your skin. The pain is excuciating, but you don't have to endure it for long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're a bit of a science nerd - and dressed accordingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying:\nyour car key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the glove compartment", "response": "You open the glovebox, revealing a plastic raincoat and a torch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all from it", "response": "plastic raincoat: Removed.\ntorch: Removed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the raincoat", "response": "You don your designer-label raincoat. It's a perfect fit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "Your car is parked at the side of a lonely country road. The nearest town is miles away. As you were driving west before you pulled over, you can go west to the front of the car or east to the back of the car. The rain is pelting down. It's dark and dismal, but you can barely make out an old mansion silhouetted against the night sky to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the rear of your car, looking over the boot. The road continues to the east and west. There's a fence beside the road to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the boot", "response": "The boot seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the boot with the key", "response": "You unlock the boot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the boot", "response": "You open the boot, revealing a spare tyre and a tyre lever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close boot", "response": "The boot clicks shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at the front of your car, looking over the bonnet. The road continues to the east and west. There's a fence beside the road to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bonnet", "response": "The bonnet seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "You're inside your car. The dashboard is dark and the engine is off. It's dark and raining outside. The only exit is out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dashboard", "response": "Glovebox? Check. Steering wheel? Check. Ignition? Check. Knob under dashboard? Check.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the knob", "response": "It has a little picture of a car with its bonnet open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the knob", "response": "You're unable to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the knob", "response": "You hear a loud bump and the car's bonnet pops up a few centimetres.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "Your car is parked at the side of a lonely country road. The nearest town is miles away. As you were driving west before you pulled over, you can go west to the front of the car or east to the back of the car. The rain is pelting down. It's dark and dismal, but you can barely make out an old mansion silhouetted against the night sky to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bonnet", "response": "You open the bonnet, revealing a V8 engine and a flat battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the battery", "response": "It's an el-cheapo reconditioned battery that's now carked it. You need to replace it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the engine", "response": "It's your souped-up V8 engine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the battery", "response": "The battery is quite heavy. There's no point removing it and lugging it around with you until you've got a replacement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close bonnet", "response": "The bonnet clicks shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the car with the key", "response": "You lock the car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're at the front fence of a large mansion. The entry to the property is via a large iron gate to the south, but the gate is chained shut. The road is back to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gate", "response": "It's a huge iron gate in the same style as the fence. It's locked by a heavy chain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chain", "response": "It's wound tightly around the gate, but it's rough and pitted from the corrosion caused by the acid rain. Maybe it's not as strong as it looks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break chain", "response": "You'll have to tell me what to break it with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open gate", "response": "You open the huge gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is the front path of the mansion. It runs between the entrance to the north and the mansion to the south with a lawn on each side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You're standing on the front porch of a large mansion, where the awning protects you from the acid rain. If you want to enter the mansion, there's a large oak door to the south, otherwise you can head back north towards the road.\n\nYou can see a plant pot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The large oak door seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under pot", "response": "It's too heavy to move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search pot", "response": "In the plant pot is a pot plant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pot plant", "response": "It's a strong pot plant with a single thick stem and broad green leaves. You recognise it as a 'Magneticus Scrollus'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the awning", "response": "It provides some protection from the rain. You can remove your raincoat now, if you want to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "Perhaps you should try the doorbell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It's a sturdy oak door with a doorbell to the side. The door is currently closed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You're standing on the front porch of a large mansion, where the awning protects you from the acid rain. If you want to enter the mansion, there's a large oak door to the south, otherwise you can head back north towards the road.\n\nYou can see a plant pot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the plant", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the plant", "response": "Climbing that would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the plant", "response": "You carefully lift the pot plant out of the plant pot and catch a glimpse of something in the bottom of the pot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "(the brass key)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put plant in the pot", "response": "You carefully plant the pot plant in the plant pot, where it belongs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the brass key", "response": "You unlock the large oak door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the large oak door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're in an entry foyer. The front door is to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "It's dark in that direction. You'd better not venture any further without a source of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "As you start to move, a gust of wind slams the front door shut. You stop in your tracks and spin around. A neatly-painted sign is now visible on the back of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read sign", "response": "It says, 'This door can only be unlocked with an electronic door opener'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sign", "response": "The neatly-painted sign is hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This room is somewhat dark and stuffy. The only exit is to the east.\n\nYou can see a security card and a loose light switch here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine card", "response": "It's a plastic card with a magnetic strip on one side and someone's identity on the other. It's about the size of a credit card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the switch", "response": "It's a simple light switch with an on/off button.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull it", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You're carrying:\na loose light switch\na security card\na brass key\na tyre lever\na torch (providing light)\na plastic raincoat (being worn)\nyour car key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in an entry foyer. The front door is to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The walls in this room are lined with bookshelves, so you gather that it is a library of some sort. The exit is to the west.\n\nYou can see a reading table (on which is a book) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "It's currently closed. You can see that it's a soft-covered book and quite dog-eared, implying that it's been read a lot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "It's titled, 'The Science of Locks'. You wonder if it can help you out of your current predicament.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "'Parts list for electronic door opener:\n1. Switch\n2. Control unit\n3. Laser power module\n4. Circuit board (EK0007A)\n5. Wire\n6. Piezoelectric transducer\n7. Jiffy box (size 2)\n8. 3-volt LED'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "It's very technical, but you grasp enough to understand how to make an electronic door opener. All you need is a screwdriver, a soldering iron and the relevant parts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bookshelves", "response": "They're full of books, far too many to read in one lifetime. The owner of this mansion must be a prolific reader.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "Shush. It's reading something. On the reading table is a book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're at the northern end of a long hallway that extends to the south. Other than the hallway itself, there are exits to the north, east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at the northern end of a formal dining hall. There's a sideboard against the western wall and an exit to the east. The hall continues to the south.\n\nOn the sideboard is a fruit bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bowl", "response": "It's a heavy blue glass fruit bowl. In the fruit bowl is a banana.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sideboard", "response": "It's a dark wood sideboard used for serving food and displaying the dishes when serving meals. On the sideboard is a fruit bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at banana", "response": "It's got black spots on the skin from sitting on the fruit bowl for too long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You're in the middle of a long dining hall that extends to the north and south. The centre of the room is dominated by a long dining table. There's also an exit to the east.\n\nOn the dining table is a small crystal dish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dish", "response": "It's a small, delicately-cut crystal dish. In the small crystal dish is some caviar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine caviar", "response": "Fish eggs. Yuck! What do the rich and famous see in this stuff? Give me steak and eggs, any day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dish", "response": "It looks quite delicate. You don't trust yourself to carry it around, as you're just as likely to drop it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You taste the caviar", "response": "Yuck! No, thanks. Just the thought of it makes your stomach churn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're at the southern end of a long dining hall. It continues to the north or you can leave to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "It's a plain metal door with no handle or keyhole. It's currently closed. You notice that there's a slot in the wall next to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put card in the slot", "response": "The metal door slides open, revealing a hallway to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the western end of a long hallway. The hallway continues to the east. There's an open metal door to the west and a set of stairs going down to the basement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the junction of a long hallway that continues to the east and west. The other arm of the junction goes to the north. There's also an exit to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You're in a tiny broom closet. It's barely large enough to turn around in. The exit is to the north.\n\nYou can see a long-handled broom here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the eastern end of a long hallway that continues to the west. Apart from the hallway itself, there are also exits to the north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in the ground floor bathroom. There's a small basin sitting atop a vanity unit and a mirror mounted above it. The exit is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "You see a scruffy-looking scientist looking back at you. His dress sense leaves a bit to be desired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vanity", "response": "It's a typical vanity unit like you find in all domestic bathrooms. You can't see inside, since the vanity unit is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the vanity unit, revealing two D-cell batteries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the batteries", "response": "You're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying:\na long-handled broom\na banana\na note\na loose light switch\na brass key\na tyre lever\na torch (providing light)\na plastic raincoat (being worn)\nyour car key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're at the eastern end of a long hallway that continues to the west. Apart from the hallway itself, there are also exits to the north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You're in a comfortable guest room. It appears to be unused. There's a window to the north. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see a bed (on which are some clean sheets) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "It's a single bed. On the bed are some clean sheets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sheets", "response": "They're tightly tucked into the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the raincoat", "response": "It's the designer-label raincoat that you bought from K-Mart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "When you look out the window, you can see the rain pelting down outside. Through the rain, you can just make out another room a short distance away. The window is currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "You open the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're standing precariously on a ledge outside the guest room. The window to the guest room is to your south. You can see another ledge a short distance to the north.\n\nYou can see a red key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "It's too far to step across. You'll have to jump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You just make it to the northern ledge.\n\nYou're standing on a short ledge beside a window on the south side of the building. This part of the building goes west for a short distance, then south and east. You can see another ledge a short distance to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "You open the bedroom window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're in a bedroom with an exit to the west and a window to the south. Interestingly, there's a keypad and a coded message scrawled on the northern wall.\n\nYou can see a bed (on which are some sheets) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "It's a double bed. On the bed are some sheets.\nThere's a large lump under the sheets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lump", "response": "Yaaah! It's a dead body!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the body", "response": "Oh, my god. What a gruesome sight. It's a partially decomposed body. You guess it's the body of the mad scientist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the bed", "response": "The smell is too strong. You decide to keep your distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the keypad", "response": "The buttons on the keypad are laid out as follows:\nA Z Q E\nM L O X\nH F G B\nW C V U", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You're in a bedroom with an exit to the west and a window to the south. Interestingly, there's a keypad and a coded message scrawled on the northern wall.\n\nYou can see a bed (on which are a dead body and some sheets) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at a bend in the hallway. It goes south to a junction and east to another room, where you detect a putrid smell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The floor caved in. You won't be able to return the same way.\n\nYou're at the junction of a long hallway that continues to the east and west. The other arm of the junction goes to the north, but you can't go that way because of the giant hole in the floor where it collapsed. There's also an exit to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're at the western end of a long hallway. The hallway continues to the east. There's an open metal door to the west and a set of stairs going down to the basement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wooden door", "response": "The wooden door seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're at the junction of a long hallway that continues to the east and west. The other arm of the junction goes to the north, but you can't go that way because of the giant hole in the floor where it collapsed. There's also an exit to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "(the red key)\nThe key is located about three metres further along on the narrow ledge. You can't reach it from where you are and you dare not risk going any further along the slippery ledge in this rain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it with the broom", "response": "You scrape the key towards you with the long-handled broom. It's now within reach. As you reach down to pick it up, the broom slips out of your grasp and falls to the ground far below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "Which do you mean, the red key, the brass key or the car key?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Red", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying:\na red key\na banana\na note\na loose light switch\na brass key\na tyre lever\na torch (providing light)\na plastic raincoat (being worn)\nyour car key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the wooden door with the red key", "response": "You unlock the wooden door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open wooden", "response": "You open the wooden door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're on a landing at the bottom of the stairs. The exit from the stairs is via a door to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in the middle of a long hall that extends to the north and south. There are also exits to the east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're in the kitchen. There's a sink beside the kitchen cupboard. The exit is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the sink", "response": "The sink is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "You open the cupboard, revealing some Jatz crackers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jatz", "response": "It's a handful of Jatz crackers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in the kitchen. There's a sink beside the kitchen cupboard. The exit is to the west.\n\nIn the cupboard are some Jatz crackers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the red key", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the crackers", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're at the northern end of a long hallway that extends to the south. Other than the hallway itself, there are exits to the north, east and west.\n\nYou can see a small ravenous monster that defies description here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in an entry foyer. The front door is to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This room is somewhat dark and stuffy. The only exit is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bowl", "response": "It's quite heavy. You can't see any point of lugging that around with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet monster", "response": "As you reach out to the small ravenous monster that defies description, it snaps at your hand. You withdraw it just in time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in the middle of a long hall that extends to the north and south. There are also exits to the east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You're on a landing at the top of the stairs. You can leave the landing to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You're at the southern end of a wide hall. The hall extends to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in the upstairs bathroom. It's furnished in glorious pink. There's a vanity unit with a small basin mounted against the west wall and a mirror mounted above it. The exits are to the north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the vanity", "response": "You open the vanity unit, revealing a pink jiffy box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "It's not that sort of box. It's used to hold all the components when assembling electronic gadgets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the box", "response": "You're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying:\nsome Jatz crackers\na banana\na note\na loose light switch\na brass key\na tyre lever\na torch (providing light)\na plastic raincoat (being worn)\nyour car key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at basin", "response": "It's a small porcelain basin mounted on top of the vanity unit. The small basin is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "Someone has scrawled a message on the mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the message", "response": "It says, 'RUTH WAS HERE'. You wonder what that could mean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're at the southern end of a wide hall. The hall extends to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're in a lounge room. It's well furnished for relaxing. There are exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a lounge and a coffee table (on which are some UV glasses) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all but the coat and the torch", "response": "Jatz crackers: Dropped.\nbanana: Dropped.\nnote: Dropped.\nloose light switch: Dropped.\nbrass key: Dropped.\ntyre lever: Dropped.\ncar key: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in the upstairs bathroom. It's furnished in glorious pink. There's a vanity unit with a small basin mounted against the west wall and a mirror mounted above it. The exits are to the north and east.\n\nIn the vanity unit is a pink jiffy box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lounge", "response": "This is a plush lounge with seating for four people. There is nothing on the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on it", "response": "You get onto the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the lounge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You're in a lounge room. It's well furnished for relaxing. There are exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a lounge and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It's a low, stained-wood coffee table with some elaborately carved legs. There is nothing on the coffee table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're at the west end of a short hall. It enters a room to the west and continues to the east. There are doors on both sides of the hall, a plain door to the north and a louvred door to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open louvred", "response": "You open the louvred door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in a linen closet. There's a louvred door to the north.\n\nYou can see some satin sheets here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sheets", "response": "Ooh, silky smooth. It's a pity about the moth holes, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sheets", "response": "You find a three-volt LED hidden under the sheets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're at the east end of a short hall. There's an exit to the north or you can follow the hall back to the west.\n\nYou can see a goat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the goat", "response": "What the hell is a goat doing in a mansion? It must be seeking shelter from the acid rain. It certainly doesn't look very friendly. Maybe it's hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet goat", "response": "You reach out to pet the goat and it bites you. Youch! You'd better not try that again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can't, since the plain door is in the way.\n\nYour torch is getting dim. You'd better turn it off or replace the batteries pretty soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the torch", "response": "You turn the torch off.\n\nIt is now pitch dark in here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.\n\nYou're in the ground floor bathroom. There's a small basin sitting atop a vanity unit and a mirror mounted above it. The exit is to the north.\n\nIn the vanity unit are two D-cell batteries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're standing precariously on a ledge outside the guest room. The window to the guest room is to your south. You can see another ledge a short distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You just make it to the northern ledge.\n\nYou're standing on a short ledge beside a window on the south side of the building. This part of the building goes west for a short distance, then south and east. You can see another ledge a short distance to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in a bedroom with an exit to the west and a window to the south. Interestingly, there's a keypad and a coded message scrawled on the northern wall.\n\nYou can see a bed (on which are a dead body and some sheets) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the glasses", "response": "Everything takes on a purplish hue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the message", "response": "When you're wearing the UV glasses, most of the letters are invisible. However, three of them stand out clearly. Ignoring the spaces, they read, 'VZX'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the glasses", "response": "That's better. Everything returns to normal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Type vzx", "response": "(on the keypad)\nYou type \"vzx\".\n\nA panel slides open, revealing a hidden room to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.\n\nYou're in a secret room. The walls are covered in various notes, photos of animals, electronic schematics and mathematical equations. The only exit is through the secret door to the south.\n\nYou can see a journal and a laser power module here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "journal: Taken.\nlaser power module: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the torch", "response": "You turn the torch off.\n\nIt is now pitch dark in here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in a bedroom with an exit to the west and a window to the south. Interestingly, there's a keypad and a coded message scrawled on the northern wall. Beside the keypad, a secret door has opened to reveal an exit to the north.\n\nYou can see a bed (on which are a dead body and some sheets) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the journal", "response": "The hand-written title is, 'On the Electronic Control of Creatures, Great and Small'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the journal to see what's inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "It appears that the mad scientist had been experimenting on animals to turn them into robotic creatures that he could control. That would explain the weird combination of animals and electronics in this mansion. Who knows what his ulterior motive may have been?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine module", "response": "It's a laser power module. It would make a good power supply for the electronic door opener.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.\n\nYou're in a secret room. The walls are covered in various notes, photos of animals, electronic schematics and mathematical equations. The only exit is through the secret door to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine notes", "response": "You don't understand any of it. It's some field of science that's unfamiliar to you, possibly biomechanics.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're at a bend in the hallway. It goes south to a junction, but you can't go that way because of the giant hole where the floor collapsed. However, you can go east to another room, where you detect a putrid smell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're standing on a short ledge beside a window on the south side of the building. This part of the building goes west for a short distance, then south and east. You can see another ledge a short distance to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You just make it to the southern ledge.\n\nYou're standing precariously on a ledge outside the guest room. The window to the guest room is to your south. You can see another ledge a short distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You're in a comfortable guest room. It appears to be unused. There's a window to the north. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see a bed (on which are some clean sheets) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sheets", "response": "(the clean sheets from the bed)\nThe clean sheets are fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.\n\nYour torch is getting very faint. I reckon it will only last for another ten moves or so.\n\nYou're at the southern end of a long dining hall. It continues to the north or you can leave to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see your car key, a tyre lever, a brass key, a loose light switch, a note, a banana and some Jatz crackers here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.\n\nYou're at the east end of a short hall. There's an exit to the north or you can follow the hall back to the west.\n\nYou can see a goat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.\n\nYou're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see some Jatz crackers, your car key, a tyre lever, a brass key, a loose light switch, a note and a banana here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.\n\nYou're in the middle of a wide north-south hall with a sealed door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It looks to be well and truly sealed. The key to that door was probably lost years ago. It makes you wonder what must be on the other side.\n\nYour torch has just gone out.\n\nIt is now pitch dark in here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put batteries in the torch", "response": "You remove the old batteries and throw them away, then insert the new ones.\n\nYou're in the middle of a wide north-south hall with a sealed door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're at the northern end of a wide north-south hall. There's a wide opening to the north, a white door to the west and another exit to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It's a plain white door with no distinguishing features. It's currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "The white door seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You're on a wide balcony that's well protected from the acid rain outside. The southern wall is covered by a trellis, broken only by the entry to the mansion.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the macaw", "response": "It's a brightly-coloured blue and yellow macaw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trellis", "response": "A lattice-like trellis is mounted on the south wall of the balcony. Tropical vines are entwined in the lattice work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see a banana, some Jatz crackers, your car key, a tyre lever, a brass key, a loose light switch and a note here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You're carrying:\nsome Jatz crackers\na laser power module\na journal\na three-volt LED\nsome satin sheets\nsome UV glasses (being worn)\na pink jiffy box\na torch (providing light)\na plastic raincoat (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "DROP ALL BUT CRACKERS, TORCH, RAINCOAT, GLASSES", "response": "laser power module: Dropped.\njournal: Dropped.\nthree-volt LED: Dropped.\nsatin sheets: Dropped.\npink jiffy box: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the crackers to the macaw", "response": "\"Squawk! Molly make friend. Molly follow you. Molly give hints.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the trellis", "response": "Climbing that would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Molly about the trellis", "response": "\"Squawk! Molly don't know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Molly about the goat", "response": "\"Squawk! Must be hungry by now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Molly about the monster", "response": "\"Squawk! Molly don't know.\"\n\n\"Squawk! Adventures are cool.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're at the northern end of a wide north-south hall. There's a wide opening to the north, a white door to the west and another exit to the east.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in a small closet. The exit is to the west.\n\nOn the rack are some coats.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the coats", "response": "The coats are badly moth-eaten.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search coats", "response": "Moving the coats reveals an opening at the back of the closet.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\n\"Squawk! Who's a pretty girl, then?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You're in a small closet. The exit is to the west. You can also see an opening behind the coats to the south.\n\nOn the rack are some coats.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're in the TV room. There's an exit to the west, but it's been sealed up for some reason. Now that the exit is sealed, the only other way out is the opening to the north.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a TV set and a lounge chair (on which is a remote control unit) here.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv set", "response": "It's an old HMV cathode-ray tube analogue TV set. You haven't seen one of those for years. It's currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it on", "response": "You turn it on and try all the channels, but there's only static. You're not surprised. All broadcast signals are digital nowadays.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it off", "response": "You turn it off and revel in the joy of a black screen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chair", "response": "It's an extremely worn, yet comfy-looking lounge chair. There is nothing on the lounge chair.\n\n\"Squawk! Adventures are cool.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at the northern end of a wide north-south hall. There's a wide opening to the north, a white door to the west and another exit to the east.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in the middle of a wide north-south hall with a sealed door to the east.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You're at the southern end of a wide hall. The hall extends to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're on a landing at the top of the stairs. You can leave the landing to the north.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Who's a pretty girl, then?\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go down", "response": "You're on a landing at the bottom of the stairs. The exit from the stairs is via a door to the north.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a pink jiffy box, some satin sheets, a three-volt LED, a journal, a laser power module, a banana, your car key, a tyre lever, a brass key, a loose light switch and a note here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the western end of a long hallway. The hallway continues to the east. There's an open metal door to the west and a set of stairs going down to the basement.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You're in a small access hallway at the bottom of a set of stairs. Apart from the stairs, there are exits to the south, east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Your right to sleep past 7 a.m. is revoked.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're in an electronic workshop scattered with discarded electronic components. The exit is to the north, but there's also a door to the east. An L-shaped workbench is mounted against the other walls to the south and west.\n\nOn the workbench is a soldering iron surrounded by electronic components.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the iron", "response": "It's bolted down.\n\n\"Squawk! Who's a pretty girl, then?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the components", "response": "You scavenge through the components and decide that it's mostly junk. Hang about, there's a circuit board that may be useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The workshop door seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're in a small access hallway at the bottom of a set of stairs. Apart from the stairs, there are exits to the south, east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You're in a small storage area for the laboratory. Shelves line all the walls, except for the exit to the west.\n\nOn the shelves is a coil of wire.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the coil", "response": "Taken.\n\n\"Squawk! Who's a pretty girl, then?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in a mad scientist's laboratory. Of the room's weird contents, the gorilla's cage looks the worst. The only exit is to the east.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a steel cage (which is closed) (in which is a white key) and a huge gorilla here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give banana to the gorilla", "response": "He peels the banana, drops the skin on the floor and sits in a corner to eat it.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open cage", "response": "You open the steel cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the white key", "response": "You gingerly reach into the cage and pick up the white key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the junction of a long hallway that continues to the east and west. The other arm of the junction goes to the north, but you can't go that way because of the giant hole in the floor where it collapsed. There's also an exit to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a remote control unit, a pink jiffy box, some satin sheets, a three-volt LED, a journal, a laser power module, your car key, a tyre lever, a brass key and a loose light switch here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're on a landing at the bottom of the stairs. The exit from the stairs is via a door to the north.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You're on a landing at the top of the stairs. You can leave the landing to the north.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're at the southern end of a wide hall. The hall extends to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in a lounge room. It's well furnished for relaxing. There are exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a lounge and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the west end of a short hall. It enters a room to the west and continues to the east. There are doors on both sides of the hall, a plain door to the north and a louvred door to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! I like 'Parrots of the Caribbean'.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the east end of a short hall. There's an exit to the north or you can follow the hall back to the west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a goat here.\n\n\"Squawk! I'm talking to an idiot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the skin to the goat", "response": "The goat gobbles down the banana peel.\n\n\"Squawk! You'll never escape.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The goat won't let you pass.\n\n\"Squawk! Scientist mad.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Molly about the ruth", "response": "\"Squawk! Molly don't know.\"\n\n\"Squawk! I'm talking to an idiot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at the west end of a short hall. It enters a room to the west and continues to the east. There are doors on both sides of the hall, a plain door to the north and a louvred door to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're in a lounge room. It's well furnished for relaxing. There are exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a lounge and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the white door with the white key", "response": "You unlock the white door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the white key", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the white door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You're in a small storeroom for cleaning equipment. The exit is to the east.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a piezoelectric transducer here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "It's a small ceramic disc with two wires attached. You know that it converts pressure to a direct current with a high impedance. It would make a good transducer for the electronic door opener.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're at the northern end of a wide north-south hall. There's a wide opening to the north, a white door to the west and another exit to the east.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a white key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the plain door with the white key", "response": "The plain door doesn't seem to be something you can unlock.\n\n\"Squawk! Who's a pretty girl, then?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the plain door", "response": "You open the plain door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You recognise this as a darkroom from all the photographic equipment on the bench. This is a relic from the past. You thought everyone used digital cameras nowadays. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a bench (on which are some photographic chemicals, some photographic tools, an enlarger and some undeveloped film) and a red lamp here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the lamp", "response": "You turn the lamp on and the room is filled with a red glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the torch", "response": "You turn the torch off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the plain door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at film", "response": "It's a canister of undeveloped film. You wonder what's on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chemicals", "response": "You recognise various photographic chemicals such as developer and fixer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tools", "response": "You see developing trays, a pair of scissors, a thermometer and a timer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bench", "response": "It's a plain bench covered in the things you'd expect to find in any well-equipped darkroom. On the bench are some photographic chemicals, some photographic tools, an enlarger and some undeveloped film.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the enlarger", "response": "This is used to enlarge the images you can see on negatives. Just place the negative on the enlarger and, hey presto, the magnifying lens makes everything look larger. There is nothing on the enlarger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the film", "response": "It's a canister of undeveloped film. You wonder what's on it.\n\n\"Squawk! Hello.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put film on the enlarger", "response": "The only thing you can place on the enlarger are negatives.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You develop the film", "response": "You use the chemicals to develop the film and place the developed negatives on the bench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the negatives", "response": "None of the negatives look very interesting. They appear to be photos of animals, although one appears to have some printing on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the negatives on the enlarger", "response": "You need to be holding the developed negatives before you can put them on top of something else.\n\n\"Squawk! I like 'Parrots of the Caribbean'.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the negatives on the enlarger", "response": "You put the developed negatives on the enlarger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the enlarger", "response": "This is used to enlarge the images you can see on negatives. Just place the negative on the enlarger and, hey presto, the magnifying lens makes everything look larger. On the enlarger are some developed negatives.\n\n\"Squawk! Adventures are cool.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lens", "response": "This is used to enlarge the images you can see on negatives. Just place the negative on the enlarger and, hey presto, the magnifying lens makes everything look larger. On the enlarger are some developed negatives.\n\n\"Squawk! Hello.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the lens", "response": "On the enlarger are some developed negatives.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the enlarger", "response": "The enlarger is not something you can switch.\n\n\"Squawk! I like 'Parrots of the Caribbean'.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read printing", "response": "One of the negatives has some printing that says, 'Code is alphabet reversed'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the timer", "response": "You see developing trays, a pair of scissors, a thermometer and a timer.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You recognise this as a darkroom from all the photographic equipment on the bench. This is a relic from the past. You thought everyone used digital cameras nowadays. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a bench (on which are some photographic chemicals, some photographic tools and an enlarger (on which are some developed negatives)) and a red lamp (providing light) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the lamp", "response": "You turn the lamp off and the room is no longer bathed in a red glow.\n\nIt is now pitch dark in here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the torch", "response": "You turn the torch on.\n\n\"Squawk! I'm talking to an idiot.\"\n\nYou recognise this as a darkroom from all the photographic equipment on the bench. This is a relic from the past. You thought everyone used digital cameras nowadays. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a bench (on which are some photographic chemicals, some photographic tools and an enlarger (on which are some developed negatives)) and a red lamp here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in the sheets", "response": "white key: The satin sheets can't contain things.\npiezoelectric transducer: The satin sheets can't contain things.\ncoil of wire: The satin sheets can't contain things.\nnote: The satin sheets can't contain things.\ntorch: The satin sheets can't contain things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the key", "response": "(the white key)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "TAKE REMOTE, BOX, LED, MODULE, SWITCH", "response": "remote control unit: Taken.\npink jiffy box: Taken.\nthree-volt LED: Taken.\nlaser power module: Taken.\nloose light switch: You're carrying too many things already.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're at the western end of a long hallway. The hallway continues to the east. There's an open metal door to the west and a set of stairs going down to the basement.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! I like 'Parrots of the Caribbean'.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You're in an electronic workshop scattered with discarded electronic components. The exit is to the north, but there's also a door to the east. An L-shaped workbench is mounted against the other walls to the south and west.\n\nOn the workbench is a soldering iron surrounded by electronic components.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a printed circuit board here.\n\n\"Squawk! Hello.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You're carrying:\na laser power module\na three-volt LED\na pink jiffy box\na remote control unit\na piezoelectric transducer\na coil of wire\na note\nsome UV glasses (being worn)\na torch (providing light)\na plastic raincoat (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "PUT MODULE, LED, BOX, UNIT, TRANSDUCER ON BENCH", "response": "laser power module: Done.\nthree-volt LED: Done.\npink jiffy box: Done.\nremote control unit: Done.\npiezoelectric transducer: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the wire on the bench", "response": "You put the coil of wire on the workbench.\n\n\"Squawk! Adventures are cool.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a white key, some satin sheets, a journal, your car key, a tyre lever, a brass key and a loose light switch here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Journal", "response": "loose light switch: Taken.\njournal: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're in an electronic workshop scattered with discarded electronic components. The exit is to the north, but there's also a door to the east. An L-shaped workbench is mounted against the other walls to the south and west.\n\nOn the workbench are a coil of wire, a piezoelectric transducer, a remote control unit, a pink jiffy box, a three-volt LED, a laser power module and a soldering iron surrounded by electronic components.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a printed circuit board here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying:\na journal\na loose light switch\na note\nsome UV glasses (being worn)\na torch (providing light)\na plastic raincoat (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "PUT JOURNAL, SWITCH, NOTE ON BENCH", "response": "journal: Done.\nloose light switch: Done.\nnote: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "'Parts list for electronic door opener:\n1. Switch\n2. Control unit\n3. Laser power module\n4. Circuit board (EK0007A)\n5. Wire\n6. Piezoelectric transducer\n7. Jiffy box (size 2)\n8. 3-volt LED'\n\n\"Squawk! You'll never escape.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You're in an electronic workshop scattered with discarded electronic components. The exit is to the north, but there's also a door to the east. An L-shaped workbench is mounted against the other walls to the south and west.\n\nOn the workbench are a note, a loose light switch, a journal, a coil of wire, a piezoelectric transducer, a remote control unit, a pink jiffy box, a three-volt LED, a laser power module and a soldering iron surrounded by electronic components.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a printed circuit board here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the eastern end of a long hallway that continues to the west. Apart from the hallway itself, there are also exits to the north and south.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at the junction of a long hallway that continues to the east and west. The other arm of the junction goes to the north, but you can't go that way because of the giant hole in the floor where it collapsed. There's also an exit to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! You'll never escape.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a white key, some satin sheets, your car key, a tyre lever and a brass key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're at the east end of a short hall. There's an exit to the north or you can follow the hall back to the west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a goat here.\n\n\"Squawk! Who are you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the sheets to the goat", "response": "Goats are known to eat almost anything, but this one must be fussier than most, as it rejects the satin sheets.\n\n\"Squawk! Hello.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Molly about the caviar", "response": "\"Squawk! Monster likes caviar.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in a lounge room. It's well furnished for relaxing. There are exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a lounge and a coffee table here.\n\n\"Squawk! Adventures are cool.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're on a landing at the top of the stairs. You can leave the landing to the north.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a white key, your car key, a tyre lever and a brass key here.\n\n\"Squawk! I'm talking to an idiot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the sheets", "response": "Dropped.\n\n\"Squawk! You'll never escape.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at the southern end of a long dining hall. It continues to the north or you can leave to the east.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in the middle of a long dining hall that extends to the north and south. The centre of the room is dominated by a long dining table. There's also an exit to the east.\n\nOn the dining table is a small crystal dish.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dish", "response": "It looks quite delicate. You don't trust yourself to carry it around, as you're just as likely to drop it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the caviar", "response": "You pick up the icky, sticky, gloopy caviar in your bare hands. Yuck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in the middle of a long hall that extends to the north and south. There are also exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're at the northern end of a long hallway that extends to the south. Other than the hallway itself, there are exits to the north, east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a small ravenous monster that defies description here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the caviar to the monster", "response": "The small ravenous monster that defies description only likes export-quality caviar. This inferior brand killed it, perhaps because it was off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You step over the dead monster that defies description.\n\nYou're in a small private bar. The only exit is to the west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a whiskey bottle (empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bottle", "response": "Taken.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "It once held fine Irish whiskey. It's now just an empty bottle. Pity. A bottle full of whiskey would be much better.\n\n\"Squawk! I like 'Parrots of the Caribbean'.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You're at the northern end of a long hallway that extends to the south. Other than the hallway itself, there are exits to the north, east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a dead monster that defies description here.\n\n\"Squawk! Scientist mad.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in the middle of a long hall that extends to the north and south. There are also exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! I like 'Parrots of the Caribbean'.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see a macaw, some satin sheets, a white key, your car key, a tyre lever and a brass key here.\n\n\"Squawk! Your right to sleep past 7 a.m. is revoked.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You're on a landing at the bottom of the stairs. The exit from the stairs is via a door to the north.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Who's a pretty girl, then?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You're at the southern end of a wide hall. The hall extends to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Adventures are cool.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in a lounge room. It's well furnished for relaxing. There are exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a lounge and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the east end of a short hall. There's an exit to the north or you can follow the hall back to the west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a goat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Molly about the bottle", "response": "\"Squawk! You've found it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Molly about the goat", "response": "\"Squawk! Must be hungry by now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You're carrying:\na whiskey bottle (empty)\na journal\nsome UV glasses (being worn)\na torch (providing light)\na plastic raincoat (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at the west end of a short hall. It enters a room to the west and continues to the east. There are doors on both sides of the hall, a plain door to the north and a louvred door to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're at the northern end of a wide north-south hall. There's a wide opening to the north, a white door to the west and another exit to the east.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Your right to sleep past 7 a.m. is revoked.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vines", "response": "They grow up the wall and over the door. Large purple fruit hang from the vine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fruit", "response": "Exotic-looking purple fruit hang from the vine. You have no idea what they are, but they look very tempting.\n\n\"Squawk! Who's a pretty girl, then?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fruit", "response": "You pick one of the fruits off the vine.\n\n\"Squawk! I'm talking to an idiot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You're at the southern end of a wide hall. The hall extends to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Your right to sleep past 7 a.m. is revoked.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in a lounge room. It's well furnished for relaxing. There are exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a lounge and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give fruit to the goat", "response": "The goat gobbles down the fruit and falls to the floor in a dead sleep. That's strange. It's a good thing you didn't eat it yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You're in the main upstairs bedroom. There's a bay window to the north. The exit from the room is to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a bed (on which are some clean sheets) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "It's a large bay window overlooking the rain-soaked estate. It's currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "You open the bay window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're standing on a high ledge high above the ground. Due to the dark, dismal night and the acid rain, the best view from here is the bedroom inside the bay window to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a silver key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the silver key", "response": "The key is soaked with acid rain. You can't touch it unless you can wash the acid off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're in the main upstairs bedroom. There's a bay window to the north. The exit from the room is to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a bed (on which are some clean sheets) here.\n\n\"Squawk! You'll never escape.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bed", "response": "It's a double bed. On the bed are some clean sheets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sheets", "response": "They're tightly tucked into the bed.\n\n\"Squawk! Molly is smart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're at the east end of a short hall. There's an exit to the north or you can follow the hall back to the west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a sleeping goat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're at the west end of a short hall. It enters a room to the west and continues to the east. There are doors on both sides of the hall, a plain door to the north and a louvred door to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in a linen closet. There's a louvred door to the north.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You recognise this as a darkroom from all the photographic equipment on the bench. This is a relic from the past. You thought everyone used digital cameras nowadays. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a bench (on which are some photographic chemicals, some photographic tools and an enlarger (on which are some developed negatives)) and a red lamp here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in a lounge room. It's well furnished for relaxing. There are exits to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a lounge and a coffee table here.\n\n\"Squawk! Hello.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're in the upstairs bathroom. It's furnished in glorious pink. There's a vanity unit with a small basin mounted against the west wall and a mirror mounted above it. The exits are to the north and east.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bottle", "response": "(with the macaw)\nThere's nothing here that you can use to fill the bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tap", "response": "If you want to fill a container with water or you want a drink of water, just say so. But don't waste water, as fresh water is a precious resource in these days of acid rain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bottle with water", "response": "You fill the bottle with water from the tap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the west end of a short hall. It enters a room to the west and continues to the east. There are doors on both sides of the hall, a plain door to the north and a louvred door to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.\n\n\"Squawk! Who are you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're at the east end of a short hall. There's an exit to the north or you can follow the hall back to the west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a sleeping goat here.\n\n\"Squawk! Adventures are cool.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You're in the main upstairs bedroom. There's a bay window to the north. The exit from the room is to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a bed (on which are some clean sheets) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're standing on a high ledge high above the ground. Due to the dark, dismal night and the acid rain, the best view from here is the bedroom inside the bay window to the south.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a silver key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour water on the silver key", "response": "The water washes away the acid from the silver key.\n\n\"Squawk! I'm talking to an idiot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're at the southern end of a north-south hallway. There's a wooden door to the south, a metal door to the east and an open exit to the west.\n\nIn the slot in the wall is a security card.\n\nYou can see a macaw, some satin sheets, a white key, your car key, a tyre lever and a brass key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're in an electronic workshop scattered with discarded electronic components. The exit is to the north, but there's also a door to the east. An L-shaped workbench is mounted against the other walls to the south and west.\n\nOn the workbench are a note, a loose light switch, a coil of wire, a piezoelectric transducer, a remote control unit, a pink jiffy box, a three-volt LED, a laser power module and a soldering iron surrounded by electronic components.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a printed circuit board here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the silver key", "response": "You unlock the workshop door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the workshop door.\n\n\"Squawk! I'm talking to an idiot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in a tiny room used for the storage of tools. The exit is to the west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and some tools here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tools", "response": "As you scrounge through the tools, you find a screwdriver. You wonder what other goodies may be tucked away amongst the tools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the screwdriver", "response": "Taken.\n\n\"Squawk! Adventures are cool.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tools", "response": "You scrounge further through the tools and this time you find a car battery. Eureka!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tools", "response": "You continue scrounging through the tools, but find nothing else of interest.\n\n\"Squawk! Who's a pretty girl, then?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in an electronic workshop scattered with discarded electronic components. The exit is to the north, but there's also a door to the east. An L-shaped workbench is mounted against the other walls to the south and west.\n\nOn the workbench are a note, a loose light switch, a coil of wire, a piezoelectric transducer, a remote control unit, a pink jiffy box, a three-volt LED, a laser power module and a soldering iron surrounded by electronic components.\n\nYou can see a macaw, a silver key and a printed circuit board here.\n\n\"Squawk! Who are you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You make the opener", "response": "With great skill and dexterity, you use the soldering iron and the screwdriver to make an electronic door opener from the parts you scrounged from around the mansion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're at the northern end of a long hallway that extends to the south. Other than the hallway itself, there are exits to the north, east and west.\n\nYou can see a macaw and a dead monster that defies description here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in an entry foyer. The front door is to the north and there are exits on the other three sides.\n\nYou can see a macaw here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the opener", "response": "Try pressing the button on the door opener.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the large oak door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Molly smells freedom in the air. \"Squawk! Bye, bye. Squawk!\" She flies off through the acid rain into the dark night sky.\n\nYou're standing on the front porch of a large mansion, where the awning protects you from the acid rain. If you want to enter the mansion, there's a large oak door to the south, otherwise you can head back north towards the road.\n\nYou can see a plant pot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the front path of the mansion. It runs between the entrance to the north and the mansion to the south with a lawn on each side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're at the front fence of a large mansion. The entry to the property is via a large iron gate to the south. The road is back to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the car with car key", "response": "(the car with the car key)\nYou unlock the car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the battery in the bonnet", "response": "(the new car battery in the bonnet)\nYou remove the old car battery and throw it into the bushes at the side of the road. You then insert the new battery and attach the terminals.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the car key in the ignition", "response": "You put the car key into the ignition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it", "response": "Vroom, vroom! The car starts up. The big V8 purrs like a kitten. It's sweet music to your ears. Now let's drive out of here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive", "response": "What do you want to drive?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Car", "response": "Oh, what a night. A flat battery, acid rain, a deserted mansion full of mysteries and a dead scientist. You'll be glad to get out of here.\n\nYou quickly drive away, not noticing that in the back seat...", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Science Fiction" ]

[ "3d movement", "city", "cover art", "gender-neutral protagonist", "humor", "IF Competition 2013", "IFComp Game", "SF", "systematic puzzles", "wordplay", "Xyzzy Awards 2013" ]

[ 3, 8, 11, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Threediopolis was the first city to have different sidewalk levels, one above another, back in 2050. It's pretty normal now in 2100, but they didn't plan everything right back then, so Threediopolis is still a bit quirky.\n\nYou still get lost some days, like today--while remembering a traumatic episode from your youth (adults yelling at you for somehow getting lost on a simple errand) you run across a building you've never seen. You enter and are whisked to a penthouse office. A fellow wearing a fractal power-tie and a white button-down shirt with elbow patches jumps up.\n\n\"Ah! You answered my online ad! What? No? You didn't? Even better! You're a natural! Unpoisoned by GPS! Just what I need! It's not anyone can find here. I'm Ed Dunn. You are? ...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "Before you can answer, Ed hands you a list of tasks, an equally mysterious package you're told not to open, and a pocket teleporter device, for getting back if you get even more lost than you need to.\n\n\"Getting here was the hard part, kid. But if you don't get everything on this list done before you get back here, that's okay.\"\n\nBefore you can ask what list, Ed makes a hush-hush gesture. \"It's organized by travel time, kid. Or it should be, once you find how to use it. Don't worry, just--don't lose it.\"\n\nHe explains how some things just don't need to be traced electronically, and how there's lots of weird scenery to see if you're interested in that sort of thing, and since you got here without knowing, you couldn't get anywhere on the list WITH knowing.\n\n\"Knowing what...?\"\n\n\"One other thing, kid. You might want to use that teleporter pretty quickly if you don't see anything to start. Say, no further than five blocks. Til you get your bearings.\"\n\nEd stares at his computer, then snaps his fingers. \"Oh, hey, I should push this button. Alphabetize this whole list, sort of. Make things easier for the rookie. What do you say?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say okay", "response": "\"Yes or no. Not rocket science.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say no", "response": "\"C'mon, kid, you can't answer an easy yes-no question...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"Got it. You look smart enough to take the extra challenge.\"\n\nPep talk time. \"You got potential. You seem like someone who knows it's not just getting there, but HOW you get there.\" You've heard that truism before...but does it mean anything? You have no time to ask. Security whisks you away as Ed booms \"And keep with it. Note what you found. Don't worry about the order, either!\"\n\nIt's not a huge list. You even have addresses of where to go. It can't be too hard, can it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Threediopolis was the first city to have different sidewalk levels, one above another, back in 2050. It's pretty normal now in 2100, but they didn't plan everything right back then, so Threediopolis is still a bit quirky.\n\nYou still get lost some days, like today--while remembering a traumatic episode from your youth (adults yelling at you for somehow getting lost on a simple errand) you run across a building you've never seen. You enter and are whisked to a penthouse office. A fellow wearing a fractal power-tie and a white button-down shirt with elbow patches jumps up.\n\n\"Ah! You answered my online ad! What? No? You didn't? Even better! You're a natural! Unpoisoned by GPS! Just what I need! It's not anyone can find here. I'm Ed Dunn. You are? ...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Club floyd", "response": "Before you can answer, Ed hands you a list of tasks, an equally mysterious package you're told not to open, and a pocket teleporter device, for getting back if you get even more lost than you need to.\n\n\"Getting here was the hard part, kid. But if you don't get everything on this list done before you get back here, that's okay.\"\n\nBefore you can ask what list, Ed makes a hush-hush gesture. \"It's organized by travel time, kid. Or it should be, once you find how to use it. Don't worry, just--don't lose it.\"\n\nHe explains how some things just don't need to be traced electronically, and how there's lots of weird scenery to see if you're interested in that sort of thing, and since you got here without knowing, you couldn't get anywhere on the list WITH knowing.\n\n\"Knowing what...?\"\n\n\"One other thing, kid. You might want to use that teleporter pretty quickly if you don't see anything to start. Say, no further than five blocks. Til you get your bearings.\"\n\nEd stares at his computer, then snaps his fingers. \"Oh, hey, I should push this button. Alphabetize this whole list, sort of. Make things easier for the rookie. What do you say?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"Got it. You look smart enough to know the value of a little organization. Hey, stop on back if you need an extra hint, eh?\"\n\nPep talk time. \"You got potential. You seem like someone who knows it's not just getting there, but HOW you get there.\" You've heard that truism before...but does it mean anything? You have no time to ask. Security whisks you away as Ed booms \"And keep with it. Note what you found. Don't worry about the order, either!\"\n\nIt's not a huge list. You even have addresses of where to go. It can't be too hard, can it?\n\nA Futuristic Word-Play Gofering by Andrew Schultz\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nEverything here sort of looks like everything else and doesn't at the same time. Going one direction seems as good as going any other.\n\nYou glance quickly at Ed Dunn's list: some things are in sector 444, but you can't see anything resembling them. [Note: the room descriptions are random and for amusement only. Type B to get rid of them or V to have them appear again.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "It would be more efficient if you could walk through buildings, but they're private property. Did you mean to run these directions in order?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Ok--you can always bypass the two-to-three-letter-command check with J (for jumping.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the list", "response": "(Note: you can just type X to re-examine the list.)\n\nED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: pal@346, pal (English name)@335, near pal (Scottish-Canadian)@455, pal@355, pal@535, near pal@444, pal (German)@544, far frieeend@356, pal@434\n--extra near: Visit total party-cave@355, Wet grass@344, Chat w/web srvr@344, Visit online univ. HQ@445, Stop Something@355, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty spying telescope@436, Fix holes in my clothes@434, Soak Up Vitamin D@544\n--near: Latin Mass@435, New&used Clothes@334, Sheep's milk@435, TV Info show@444, A conventional convent@554, Deploy package@345, Handmade clothes with love in every stitch-1@444, Smokeless tobacco@534, Root Beer &/or Cream Soda@424, New Linux system--boo Windows 27@525, Get a free hint@514\n--kinda near: pay property tax@236, cowboy hat & boots@335, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, cheapish leathery clothes@436, Matchmaker for singles@454, visit that vacant lot I loved as a kid@335\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365, Smell/taste test@426, book Scandinavian vacation@345, Invisible Institute docs@556, brand new stuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, improperly vowelled hot dog hut@447\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\nHm, he said it was alphabetized, but you aren't sure yet what he was talking about.\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]\n\nYou think a moment. Some of these locations listed twice, there has to be something if you just walk right there. Especially the ones nearby.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You glance at the extra near line.\n\nVisit total party-cave@355, Wet grass@344, Chat w/web srvr@344, Visit online univ. HQ@445, Stop Something@355, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty spying telescope@436, Fix holes in my clothes@434, Soak Up Vitamin D@544.\nNote: you can put a list of numbers and found tasks in the status line with oo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 464", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 445", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hq", "response": "Being a messenger, you don't have much more to do than go in the six basic directions (transport tubes make going up and down easy.) Or enter places. Maybe knock. Nothing fancy. Type C to see everything.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Looking around won't be enough to get you lost the way you need to get lost. It seems it might even add one more variable, or layer of complexity, beyond just waiting.\n\nYou could say doing so in the middle of a journey is useless.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "Boy, those transport tubes are handy for saving energy during vertical travel.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 555", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 355", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine", "response": "ED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: pal@346, pal (English name)@335, near pal (Scottish-Canadian)@455, pal@355, pal@535, near pal@444, pal (German)@544, far frieeend@356, pal@434\n--extra near: Visit total party-cave@355, Wet grass@344, Chat w/web srvr@344, Visit online univ. HQ@445, Stop Something@355, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty spying telescope@436, Fix holes in my clothes@434, Soak Up Vitamin D@544\n--near: Latin Mass@435, New&used Clothes@334, Sheep's milk@435, TV Info show@444, A conventional convent@554, Deploy package@345, Handmade clothes with love in every stitch-1@444, Smokeless tobacco@534, Root Beer &/or Cream Soda@424, New Linux system--boo Windows 27@525, Get a free hint@514\n--kinda near: pay property tax@236, cowboy hat & boots@335, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, cheapish leathery clothes@436, Matchmaker for singles@454, visit that vacant lot I loved as a kid@335\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365, Smell/taste test@426, book Scandinavian vacation@345, Invisible Institute docs@556, brand new stuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, improperly vowelled hot dog hut@447\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Talk", "response": "NOTE: there is currently a problem with web-based interpreters, and older Mac interpreters may not support the status line list.\nThe screen dimensions are 70 x 24. Dimensions of at least 105x25 are recommended to be able to see all entries at once but not necessary. You can resize later. Do you still wish to toggle the list inventory to the status bar?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Ok, the list is in the status bar, now. Note: if you resize to <25 height or <105 width, it is at your own risk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na mysterious package\na pocket teleporter device\na list of needs (can be examined with just X)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine package", "response": "You see nothing special about the mysterious package. But you sure SENSE something special under that newfangled top-open-secret material that can hold things several times its size if necessary. Quantum physics is crazy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sense", "response": "You pick up the pace of your wandering, there, planning a few blocks ahead.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\nYou've been wandering for too long. You get tired, and you figure it's probably best to start over with a clean look on things. You push the button on your teleporter device, and back you go to the center, scrapping your remaining plans.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sense", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\nYou are redirected around a political rally where people chant \"We need Wu!\" then \"Wu needs us!\"\n\nBut what you noticed doesn't seem practical, so you put it out of your mind as you continue pacing. Places you can't enter won't help you help Ed Dunn.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the package", "response": "You'd be flaking out at your job, doing that. No way!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the package", "response": "Are you hungry for a meal, or a job that'll buy several of them? Get back to wandering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city. Your employer must really be loaded.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "Pals: 346/335/455*/355/535/444*/544/356***/434.\n\nNote: while friends are left, you can focus on them in the status bar with ff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ff", "response": "Friends are now in header. Each asterisk means longer distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Edd", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou flash back to Ed Dunn's voice booming through your head: \"It's not just where you go but how you get there!\" Maybe you can try hitting some of the nearer locations.\n\n[NOTE: you can toggle hints like this by typing r.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dee", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 346\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It looks familiar, slightly different from all the identical ones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "That front door is someone's home. You should really knock instead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock", "response": "(Note: in the future you can type K for knock.)\n\nYou are surprised to see a man answer the door, but you're not sure why. \"Ed Dunn, eh? My wife will be glad to drop by. Her name's Dee, too. Well, the abbreviation. We both laughed too hard at it when we first met.\"\n\nWell, Ed won't be alone now. Or, rather, he'll have some of his best pals to talk to.\n(Note: from now on you can type IN once you see a place to enter or, if there's a door to knock on, K. On which to knock.)\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sed", "response": "That's a pretty crazy diagonal direction. You'd crash into something, even with a jetpack. Did you mean to run these directions in order?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "[NOTE: you can always bypass this command check with J (for jump through diagonals.)]\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\nYou stumble by a bunch of techies discussing AWK and GREP and discussing how it's all more fun and interesting than silly puzzle boxes with no purpose. Not that the guy who just passed would be good at either.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "Nothing to enter. It's all so unfamiliar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "[NOTE: you can still bypass this command check with J (for jump through diagonals.)]\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "\"An Ed Dunn party, eh? His are worth the walk. But boy, I tell you, the guy who sold me this place cheated me. Said I'd be near Ed's. I don't get it.\"\n\nHoowah, that's another friend found!\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "[NOTE: you can still bypass this command check with J (for jump through diagonals.)]\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "Ned compliments you on not getting lost getting here--there are other tempting and even dangerous places in the nearby area. He suspects and hopes that that's why he didn't get the last invite. Well, he hopes it was more temptation than danger.\n\nYou've found some pretty swank areas of Threediopolis you'd have missed otherwise. It looks like there are more.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clubf it lets you go a diagonal direction", "response": "Being a messenger, you don't have much more to do than go in the six basic directions (transport tubes make going up and down easy.) Or enter places. Maybe knock. Nothing fancy. Type C to see everything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "[NOTE: you can still bypass this command check with J (for jump through diagonals.)]\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "[NOTE: you can still bypass this command check with J (for jump through diagonals.)]\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\nYou can see an extremely ominous door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "J.", "response": "Jump mode is on, e.g. NWU or NW diagonals are no longer questioned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "You reach into the mysterious package and pull out a stink-bomb, then knock and run away. Since you didn't light it INSIDE the clinic, there's nothing they can do to you. There's legal precedent--plus if they prosecuted you, they'd have to reveal the address in court, which would mean more annoying protestors. You're glad your benefactor has a conscience!\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou think back to the times Internet route planners gave you wrong or slow directions and feel slightly superior.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "End", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "Nothing to enter. It's all so unfamiliar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Den", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\nYou can see a door shaped like a champagne bottle here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the champagne", "response": "It's a bit tacky, but it gets the point across. You will learn something about partying if you go through it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Note: you can type i instead of enter/in in the future. It trumps the default command for I, taking inventory, which has limited use in this game.\n\nYou realize that Ed Dunn has done you a favor by allowing you to view this. You take extra careful notes on how the party is, what's being served, what a party should be, and the general atmosphere and how people are acting. Alas, you can't partake of some amenities while on the job, but you can't complain.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You glance at the extra near line.\n\nDen, Wet grass@344, Chat w/web srvr@344, Visit online univ. HQ@445, End, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty spying telescope@436, Fix holes in my clothes@434, Soak Up Vitamin D@544.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sundew", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 544\nYou can see some big glass doors here.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Nothing seems to happen. You think. But you blink once, and everything FEELS different.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dun", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sun", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 544\nYou can see some big glass doors here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "No need to be so formal. Walk on in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "It's so rare to get natural sun. Usually the heat lamps are enough. Someone punches your ration card and you return to your home, cheerier. You're given a dark bottle of instant sunlight for your employer, too. He seems to be on the monthly plan, and it's too fragile to mail to him.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou hear Ed Dunn discussed in hushed tones--that he is not that smart but hires people much smarter to work for him. A smart voice and dumb voice agree there's a racket--but they'd work for him, all the same.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sunk", "response": "Being a messenger, you don't have much more to do than go in the six basic directions (transport tubes make going up and down easy.) Or enter places. Maybe knock. Nothing fancy. Type C to see everything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dew", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\nYou can see a barely detectable gladed trail here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "A kid on a lonely park bench. \"So you're the one my uncle got to play with me today. You'll do, I guess.\" It's actually rather fun, and the kid gets bored first.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tt", "response": "Suppressed toggle warning in inventory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tt", "response": "Unsuppressed toggle warning in inventory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You send", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\nYou can see a loading dock here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "(Scottish-Canadian)@455, Ned, pal@535,\n\nOk, the list is in the status bar, now. Note: if you resize to <25 height or <105 width, it is at your own risk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dock", "response": "(Scottish-Canadian)@455, Ned, pal@535,\n\nThe loading dock is neither exciting nor forbidding. You can probably just ENTER it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "(Scottish-Canadian)@455, Ned, pal@535,\n\nYou write down your employer's name, location, reason for having to send something physical--and you're promised the package will be sent off.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nIt's a good thing the moving walkways--the ones you take for granted--are helping you along, or you'd be more tired than you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "(Scottish-Canadian)@455, Ned, pal@535,\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(Scottish-Canadian)@455, Ned, pal@535,\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 456", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "(Scottish-Canadian)@455, Ned, pal@535,\n\nTeleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "That'd be kind of pointless here. Well, technically, here and now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "En", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dune", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 465\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 466", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dune", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nude", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou pick up some static from the teleport device. Ed Dunn is babbling some three-letter acronyms you feel half guilty for not understanding. Or not liking and not using. You know you've heard them before, though.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ff", "response": "(Scottish-Canadian)@455, Ned, pal@535,\n\nFriends are now not header.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "\"Nice of Ed to think of me even though I'm so far away. I hope it wasn't too far for you.\"\n\nWell, that's another friend found!\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "Pals: Dee/Des/455*/Ned/535/444*/544/356***/Wes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wed", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You descend", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "You have heard about teleporter overheat. It's quite a way to go. Maybe you should walk around a bit more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sue", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 334\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sue", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 535\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "\"Ah, yes,\" says the lady answering the door, \"You messengers always find me early, don't you? It must be my personality.\" Before you can agree, she slams the door in your face.\n\nOver halfway there. You are getting the hang of whom to find, where.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou think back to the slider puzzles and even the peg solitaire game you never quite figured out. You bet it'll be easier to figure once you're done here. But Rubik's Cubes? Still, no way. Well, not first thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Uwe", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 543\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 544\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "\"Ah, Ed always appreciates my Continental European flavor. As do his other guests.\"\n\nHot dang, that's another friend found!\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "Pals: Dee/Des/455*/Ned/Sue/444*/Uwe/356***/Wes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Newe", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\nA construction site you pass by--and promptly forget about--promises state of the art homes for sale soon.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ween", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "New", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na mysterious package\na pocket teleporter device\na list of needs (can be examined with just X)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "Nothing to enter. It's all so unfamiliar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Senn", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou pick up some static from the teleport device. Ed Dunn is babbling some three-letter acronyms you feel half guilty for not understanding. Or not liking and not using. You know you've heard them before, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wend", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 354\nYour most recent turning and twisting around seems like it should've led somewhere. But it did not. Yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ewen", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "A man holding Unended, the award-winning book by Deneen Nunn,\nanswers the door. \"Sometimes I wonder if Ed Dunn only invites me to feel multicultural. Eh, well, free food, how can I say no?\"\n\nMan! None of Ed's pals have insulted you heinously yet. You already feel a bit more posh.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou remember walking into dead ends as a kid trying to take shortcuts to school. But you are avoiding them now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unended", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 555\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 565\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 465\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 466\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 366", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Eddunn", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 365\nHey, here's the door to Ed Dunn's secret hideout! Makes sense.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "As you approach the door, a guard asks your business. You recall Ed Dunn's offer of help. Are you looking for help?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You loaf around a bit, worried about facing Ed Dunn, but the guard at the door doesn't seem to want you to hang around. Go in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "The guard mumbles, \"I'm a busy man. Don't waste my time!\" and turns away. Slightly ashamed, you push the transporter device button to escape the awkwardness.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Deneennunn", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 356\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 357\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 367\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 377\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 477\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 487\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 497", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou pick up some static from the teleport device. Ed Dunn is babbling some three-letter acronyms you feel half guilty for not understanding. Or not liking and not using. You know you've heard them before, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine", "response": "ED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: Dee, Des, Ewen, Ned,\nSue, near pal@444, Uwe, far frieeend@356,\nWes\n--extra near: Den, Dew, Chat w/web srvr@344, Visit\nonline univ. HQ@445, End, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty\nspying telescope@436, Fix holes in my clothes@434, Sun\n--near: Latin Mass@435, New&used Clothes@334, Sheep's milk@435, TV Info show@444, A conventional convent@554, Send, Handmade\nclothes with love in every stitch-1@444, Smokeless tobacco@534, Root Beer &/or Cream Soda@424, New Linux system--boo Windows 27@525, Get a free hint@514\n--kinda near: pay property tax@236, cowboy hat & boots@335, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, cheapish leathery clothes@436, Matchmaker for singles@454, visit that vacant lot I loved as a kid@335\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365, Smell/taste test@426, book Scandinavian vacation@345, Invisible Institute docs@556, brand new stuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, improperly vowelled hot dog hut@447\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wendee", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 354\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 356\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "\"Oh! You're with Ed Dunn? Let me see the list he gave you,\" says the woman answering. She nods approvingly. \"He said he only invited Nene because she was closer. I'm glad he meant it this time. I hope he has those awesome hot dogs this party!\"\n\nBada-bing, that's another friend found!\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou remember overhearing coworkers telling you you need to get out more and see the city. Man, if they only knew.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nene", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 465\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 466", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "News", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou can see some big glass doors here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "There is a setup for an old-fashioned newscast. People still watch them, epsecially in the morning, mostly because the anchors are attractive and perky, and none of the reported news is too jarringly thoughtful. However, your package is frisked, and when one of the guards alerts one of the news station big-shots about whom you work for, the big shot schmoozes a bit, gives you a few presents and secret after-party invitations to pass on, and asks for a few favors.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sudden", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 334\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\nA loud noise from nowhere surprises you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine", "response": "ED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: Dee, Des, Ewen, Ned,\nSue, near pal@444, Uwe, Wendee,\nWes\n--extra near: Den, Dew, Chat w/web srvr@344, Visit\nonline univ. HQ@445, End, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty\nspying telescope@436, Fix holes in my clothes@434, Sun\n--near: Latin Mass@435, New&used Clothes@334, Sheep's milk@435,\nNews, A conventional convent@554, Send, Handmade\nclothes with love in every stitch-1@444, Smokeless tobacco@534, Root Beer &/or Cream Soda@424, New Linux system--boo Windows 27@525, Get a free hint@514\n--kinda near: pay property tax@236, cowboy hat & boots@335, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, cheapish leathery clothes@436, Matchmaker for singles@454, visit that vacant lot I loved as a kid@335\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365, Smell/taste test@426, book Scandinavian vacation@345, Invisible Institute docs@556, brand new stuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, improperly vowelled hot dog hut@447\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dudu", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dudu", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"near pal at 444\" is as good as any.\n\nNothing seems to happen. You think. But you blink once, and everything FEELS different.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sund", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Nothing seems to happen. You think. But you blink once, and everything FEELS different.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wens", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You glance at the extra near line.\n\nDen, Dew, Chat w/web srvr@344, Visit online univ. HQ@445, End, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty spying telescope@436, Fix holes in my clothes@434, Sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Weewee", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 446\nYou just stepped in a puddle, though it hasn't rained much lately. Whoever, uh, made that puddle is really juvenile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Denuded", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 356\nSome weirdo runs by and tries to pull your pants down. You swat him away. He won't try again!\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 256", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dud", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 156\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 256\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 156", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dud", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dns", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 354\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\nYou can see some big glass doors here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You probably took less time to walk there than it would've taken to stay on hold if you called in. Or get an email response. Internet customer service was so much better a hundred years ago! You straighten out a few things about your employer's websites, both the ones people know he owns and the one they don't. The acronyms are flying around, here. You hope you don't have to put up with much more of this.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou reflect back to an unfortunate school incident where you solved a logic-box puzzle and people said that sort of thing would never be handy in real life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swen", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"near pal at 444\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 433\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nMan! Someone's front door! With the secret detail Ed Dunn showed you that's obvious once you know it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "K.", "response": "\"You look dizzy! You been walking around in circles?\" asks Ed's latest invitee. He makes some desultory joke about remembering to forget the lutefisk, explaining it's funnier once you know Ed Dunn.\n\nExcellent. You got all Ed's friends. That should keep him pretty happy.\nThat's the whole gang! Obviously, there'll be random people to make up the numbers, but Ed's best pals are the ones who will keep the party moving.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Edu", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"Visit online univ. HQ at 445\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\nYou can see some big glass doors here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "While you're not sure what business Ed Dunn has here, the secretaries there recognize it immediately. Apparently, Ed Dunn has a .EDU domain offering real-world business advice, and one of the main projects is getting people to do busy work for you, whether you really need it done or not. This has to be all the acronymage you can put up with for today.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nHmm. You think Ed would be relatively happy enough with what you've done. He mentioned he didn't need perfection. You could probably go see him again any time, now.\nYou're almost hit by a bicycle messenger who claims to be delivering something REALLY important.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Eddunn", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"Retro gm comp at 445\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 365\nEd Dunn's secret hideout door is just where you remember it. You can enter it to report to your employer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "As you approach the door, a guard asks your business. You recall Ed Dunn's offer of help. Are you looking for help?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "You loaf around a bit, worried about facing Ed Dunn, but the guard at the door doesn't seem to want you to hang around. Go in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Evaluation time!\n\nYou return, with a list of what you've done.\n\n\"Great job, kid! You got all my friends. They can keep a party exciting on their own.\"\n\nHe hands you an envelope. \"Pretty good, kid. I have made it worth your time. If you know anyone even more efficient than you, let me know, and I'll give you a referral fee.\" When you get outside, you realize he is right. There is about a year's worth of pay at your regular job here. 18 9 9.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You glance at the extra near line.\n\nDen, Dew, Dns, Edu, End, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty spying telescope@436, Fix holes in my clothes@434, Sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Deded", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 246\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 146", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sew", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\nYou can see a tiny yet inviting door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Most people just have to dispose of clothes and get new recyclable ones, but Ed Dunn can afford more expensive stuff. You dump out the clothes that need repairing and get a receipt with the ready date. Technology hasn't managed to speed up clothes mending.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Deeded", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 346\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 246\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 247\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 147", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dedded", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 145\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 146\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 046", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You're lost. You have strayed beyond the city bounds. A border droid takes your ID and whisks you back to the center.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unneeded", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 564\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 565\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 566\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 466\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 467\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 367\nYou suddenly feel as if nobody, not even Ed Dunn, cares about you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sensenesses", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 357\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 358\nYou've been wandering for too long. You get tired, and you figure it's probably best to start over with a clean look on things. You push the button on your teleporter device, and back you go to the center, scrapping your remaining plans.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou pick up some static from the teleport device. Ed Dunn is babbling a three-letter acronym you feel half guilty for not understanding. Or not liking and not using. You know you've heard it before, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Suddennesses", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 334\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 356\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 346\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 336\nYou've been wandering for too long. You get tired, and you figure it's probably best to start over with a clean look on things. You push the button on your teleporter device, and back you go to the center, scrapping your remaining plans.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Denseness", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 346\nYou're in an unusually overpopulated area of Threediopolis. And yet, nothing seems worth visiting.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 356\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 357\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 347\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 337", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unweddedness", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 553\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\nYou can see a secret entry here.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 354\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 255\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 265\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 266\nYou've been wandering for too long. You get tired, and you figure it's probably best to start over with a clean look on things. You push the button on your teleporter device, and back you go to the center, scrapping your remaining plans.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou pick up some static from the teleport device. Ed Dunn is babbling a three-letter acronym you feel half guilty for not understanding. Or not liking and not using. You know you've heard it before, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unwed", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 553\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\nYou can see a secret entry here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You walk in. \"Are you searching for that special someone...?\" a clerk asks.\n\nYou mumble \"Um...not for me, this guy needs it.\"\n\n\"Ah, quite so. Mr. Dunn offers our services as a surprise gift to people who have impressed him. I am not surprised you have not.\" Whoa!\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nYou've lost 5 pounds since you started walking around. You'd wanted to. And you're still going strong.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You glance at the extra near line.\n\nDen, Dew, Dns, Edu, End, Retro gm comp@445, A powerful hinty spying telescope@436, Sew, Sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "See", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436\nYou can see a secret entry here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You're given a scope to look through--you can follow someone as they make their way to one of your locations. You notice it has settings at 0, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, where 0 means you'll do nothing. What do you choose?\n\nChoose one of 0, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8:", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You see a graphical depiction of someone walking north, east, then finally south, but then your vision loses focus.\n\nYou're informed you have 2 hints left. Then you push the teleporter device button to get back to where it'll be easier to follow that person.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\nYou can see some big glass doors here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Oh man! There's people playing, not just emulated NES games, but the real thing! With a power glove, too! One competitor, you went to school with. He is impressed you work for Ed Dunn. He knew a guy who almost got to but wasn't up to it! You give a few invites for the winners. Ed likes the nerd street cred.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou think you remember getting lost where you just were--years ago, though.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"Latin Mass at 435\" is as good as any.\n\nYou click your tongue now you've solved everything up to extra near. Next!\n\nYou glance at the near line.\n\nLatin Mass@435, New&used Clothes@334, Sheep's milk@435, News, A conventional convent@554, Send, Handmade clothes with love in every stitch-1@444, Smokeless tobacco@534, Root Beer &/or Cream Soda@424, New Linux system--boo Windows 27@525, Get a free hint@514.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine", "response": "ED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: Dee, Des, Ewen, Ned,\nSue, Swen, Uwe, Wendee,\nWes\n--extra near: Den, Dew, Dns, Edu,\nEnd, Nes, See 2 more things@436,\nSew, Sun\n--near: Latin Mass@435, New&used Clothes@334, Sheep's milk@435,\nNews, A conventional convent@554, Send, Handmade\nclothes with love in every stitch-1@444, Smokeless tobacco@534, Root Beer &/or Cream Soda@424, New Linux system--boo Windows 27@525, Get a free hint@514\n--kinda near: pay property tax@236, cowboy hat & boots@335, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, cheapish leathery clothes@436, Unwed, visit that vacant lot I loved as a\nkid@335\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365, Smell/taste test@426, book Scandinavian vacation@345, Invisible Institute docs@556, brand new stuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, improperly vowelled hot dog hut@447\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Deus", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\nYou can see a stained-glass entryway here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "What with the brutal unholy war over atheists' best reasons to disbelieve in God, religion has made a comeback. The priests here acknowledge you've traveled long and hard and far. You're not sure if you've gone anywhere. But they mention the journey is important, and the cliche provides comfort. There's a weird coin in the package, with which you buy a candle to light. Perhaps it is pre-penance for the party.\n\nYou're in the zone, zigzagging about. This whole getting lost without getting lost thing is a neat challenge.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Duds", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"New&used Clothes at 334\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 334\nYou can see a clothing store here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You walk into the store and realize you don't know what you should buy. A sales associate dubiously asks if he can help you, and when you mention it's not quite you but Ed Dunn, he whistles and hands you some clothes, with obsequious gratitude to be one of several suppliers to Ed Dunn.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nMan, this reminds you of the crossword puzzles in the Newer New York Times. How the middle bits seem pretty cool because you have just enough hints, and something impossible to start now seems doable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "OO", "response": "Regular header.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ewes", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"Sheep's milk at 435\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\nYou can see a hinged wooden gate here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Sheep's milk? Well, people apparently like all sorts of crazy stuff at parties. You guess. You'd never have noticed this mini-farm if you hadn't been told where to locate it. You'd never been to a farm before.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nuns", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"A conventional convent at 554\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 564\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\nYou can see a stained-glass entryway here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You hand the nuns a folded sheet marked \"Ed Dunn's Undue Deeds.\" Apparently Ed Dunn is enough of a benefactor that the nuns forgive all his sins--and yours--after you say his penance for him!\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou momentarily doubt whether Ed Dunn has your best interest at heart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sewn", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"Handmade clothes with love in every stitch-1 at 444\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou can see a clothing store here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "Nobody really cares about fashion any more, but there are still clothes to wear to show you don't. Ed Dunn needs a lot of them.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Suds", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"Smokeless tobacco at 534\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 424\nYou can see a restaurant door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You've never been a Coke or Pepsi man, particularly after they aligned themselves with opposing political parties. Other soft drinks are taxed at a higher rate except for the bootleg stuff. Except here. Your employer apparently Knows People. Because he is such a good customer, you even get some illicit phosphate-filled laundry detergent.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou remember problems you wanted to solve but never did.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Look", "response": "ED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: Dee, Des, Ewen, Ned,\nSue, Swen, Uwe, Wendee,\nWes\n--extra near: Den, Dew, Dns, Edu,\nEnd, Nes, See 2 more things@436,\nSew, Sun\n--near: Deus, Duds, Ewes, News,\nNuns, Send, Sewn, Smokeless tobacco@534,\nSuds, New Linux system--boo Windows 27@525, Get a free\nhint@514\n--kinda near: pay property tax@236, cowboy hat & boots@335, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, cheapish leathery clothes@436, Unwed, visit that vacant lot I loved as a\nkid@335\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365, Smell/taste test@426, book Scandinavian vacation@345, Invisible Institute docs@556, brand new stuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, improperly vowelled hot dog hut@447\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Snus", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\nYou can see some big glass doors here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "Of course, the smokable kind's been illegal a while, smoking outdoors being proved worse than smoking indoors being proved worse than smoking outdoors. But this stuff is there, if people MUST. It's been genetically engineered to be okay to snort but very toxic to smoke--just in case people get ideas. The clerk nods as you say it's for someone else. He's heard that one before.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Suse", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 524\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 525\nYou can see a shiny new store door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "If only the people extolling Linux weren't so annoying, you'd have fallen in line with them sooner once you saw why. You suspect your employer felt the same. You pick up a lightweight custom computer for your employer.\n\nYou're in the zone, zigzagging about. This whole getting lost without getting lost thing is a neat challenge.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou recall being made fun of for not wanting to learn how to order a taxicab around--or drive a car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Suss", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"Get a free hint at 514\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 524\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 514\nYou can see a shiny new store door here.\n\nA suspicious guy sidles up and says, \"Psst! Pal! Got a hint. Or even better. Contraband. What d'you say?\"\n\nThe options are:\n1. Hint\n2. Adrift-a-tron (tells when things are hopeless)\n3. Availableometer (tells what you can do)\n4. Leave", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "\"Here's your availableometer.\"\n\nYou zap back to the center after that encounter, slightly unnerved.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan availableometer\na mysterious package\na pocket teleporter device\na list of needs (can be examined with just X)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the availableometer", "response": "It is lightweight, totally inexplicable to someone from 20 years ago much less 87 (technology, boy,) and indicates it has 10 charges left. FOURTH WALL NOTE: A activates it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Suss", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 524\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 514\nYou can see a shiny new store door here.\n\nThat suspicious guy (again) sidles up and says, \"Psst! Pal! Got a hint. Or even better. Contraband. What d'you say?\"\n\nThe options are:\n1. Hint\n2. Adrift-a-tron (tells when things are hopeless)\n3. Availableometer (tells what you can do)\n4. Leave", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "\"Okay. Later.\"\n\nYou zap back to the center after that encounter, slightly unnerved.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"Here's your adrift-a-tron. It'll tell you when things are hopeless.\"\n\nYou zap back to the center after that encounter, slightly unnerved.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You click your tongue now you've solved everything up to near. Next!\n\nYou glance at the kinda near line.\n\npay property tax@236, cowboy hat & boots@335, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, cheapish leathery clothes@436, Unwed, visit that vacant lot I loved as a kid@335.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dues", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\nYou overhear a gambler mumbling about the Law of Averages--and in these enlightened times! Why, it's YOU who are owed...well, not quite owed...a place of Ed Dunn's to find, now or soon.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\nYou overhear someone being shaken down for a racket--a tithe, almost.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine", "response": "ED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: Dee, Des, Ewen, Ned,\nSue, Swen, Uwe, Wendee,\nWes\n--extra near: Den, Dew, Dns, Edu,\nEnd, Nes, See 2 more things@436,\nSew, Sun\n--near: Deus, Duds, Ewes, News,\nNuns, Send, Sewn, Snus,\nSuds, Suse, Can still SUSS@514\n--kinda near: pay property tax@236, cowboy hat & boots@335, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, cheapish leathery clothes@436, Unwed, visit that vacant lot I loved as a\nkid@335\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365, Smell/taste test@426, book Scandinavian vacation@345, Invisible Institute docs@556, brand new stuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, improperly vowelled hot dog hut@447\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Suede", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 425\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 525\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 526\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 426\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 427", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dudes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\nThere's an argument in the distance about whether someone crossed a foul line while bowling. Someone out of his element with no frame of reference shouts \"Well, that's just your OPINION, man!\" Silence abides.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\nYou can see a clothing store here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You reflect that, ironically, you didn't have to go west once to enter here. You buy a fold-up cowboy hat that fits nicely into your big mysterious package.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nTwo joggers run by, sniffing at how you don't get THAT in shape just walking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Suede", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 535\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\nSomeone moans about his trouble with lawyers. You tune that whining out.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436\nYou can see a clothing store here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Real leather's a bit scarce, even for rich people, but suede still costs about the same, adjusted for inflation. Anyway, it's just like artificial flavors in food--you get used to it, with all the other advances.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Seesee", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436\nYou can see a secret entry here.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 426\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 427\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 428", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sees", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436\nYou can see a secret entry here.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 426", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swedes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 416\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 415\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 416\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 316\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 317\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 307", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swedes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 426\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 425\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 426\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 326\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 327\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 317", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou wonder if you can thread the needle once more through the streets to mark off a quick task of Ed's.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Seens", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436\nYou can see a secret entry here.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 446\nYou hear the whirr of a hidden security camera.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You glance at the kinda near line.\n\npay property tax@236, Dudes, sandy beaches@445, ART not porn@445, garden startup materials@326, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, Suede, Unwed, visit that vacant lot I loved as a kid@335.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Seeds", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 426\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 427\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 428\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 328\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 318", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Seeds", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436\nYou can see a secret entry here.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 336\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 326\nYou can see an odd grassy door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Genetic engineering advances have made it so most people, even if they get seeds, can only grow plants for one year. A power grab by agribusiness? Perhaps. But nobody much goes hungry. And no farmland wasted where real estate could grow. You pay for and take the valuable seed packets.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nSeeing so much of the city has renminded you of other areas you wanted to visit, like New Wessewn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Newwessewn", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 453\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Weeds", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\nBased on the smell, maybe there are private gardens behind some walls here, maybe not. Some people just won't pay the exorbitant taxes for growing...THAT.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\nYou can see a vacant lot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "There aren't many vacant lots left here, and eventually they'll be phased out above the concerns of environmentalists, but this one's still here. You take a few phone-pictures for Ed Dunn to remember, and you take time to remember your own vacant lot.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dunes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\nYou can see dunes here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "It's not fully a natural beach, and you can't go in the water, but people shouldn't have to drive to a less wired area just to see the dunes. You are able to reserve the dunes for a weekend for Ed Dunn at a nice discount. The agents like that, because people who reserve on-line cancel more frequently.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou become a bit worried you won't be able to come back to any of these neat places now you've uncovered them and your time helping Ed is through.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You glance at the kinda near line.\n\npay property tax@236, Dudes, Dunes, ART not porn@445, Seeds, handmade clothes with love in every stitch-2@335, Suede, Unwed, Weeds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nudes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\nYou can see an a metal door with a one-way peephole here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "Obviously there needs to be a crackdown on sicko-porn masquerading as art, but this has been certified by the Ministry of Art as relatively intellectual stuff. It will provoke dynamic conversation at Ed Dunn's party, too, for sure. You pick out a sculpture from the No-Photograph Zone for later delivery to your benefactor.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Deeds", "response": "You plot what to take care of next. Hmm... \"pay property tax at 236\" is as good as any.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 346\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 246\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 236\nYou can see an intimidating 15-foot revolving door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "People seem surprised to see you. You don't look like a property owner. But once they see your list, they realize who you are working for. You paying in person has saved him $500 (exorbitant, even with inflation) in electronic handling fees.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sewed", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\nYou can see a clothing store here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You click your tongue now you've solved everything up to kinda near. Next!\n\nYou glance at the kinda far line.\n\nEdDunn, Smell/taste test@426, book Scandinavian vacation@345, Invisible Institute docs@556, brand new stuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sweden", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 433\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 334\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\nYou can see some big glass doors here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "Well, I guess Ed Dunn wants to have a few 24 hour days of sunlight. You place the reservation for a summer vacation with an agent named Enes Sund.\n\nYou're in the zone, zigzagging about. This whole getting lost without getting lost thing is a neat challenge.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nMan, you're totally in shape after all that walking. In shape enough to impress at a ritzy party like Ed Dunn's. Maybe you will even get invited!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unseen", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 545\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 546\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 556\nYou can see some blurry doors that seem only half there here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "Knowledge is power is money. You aren't allowed to see what Ed needs, but whatever it is, it's too important to keep online. You hand over a piece of paper, and you get back a booby trapped bag someone makes sure you slip in the package. You're not sure what the Invisible Institute is for, and you still aren't sure you want to find out.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nHmm. You've got 90%. That should be enough for Ed. You hope. There may be some unfair ones in there. You could probably go see him any time, now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine", "response": "ED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: Dee, Des, Ewen, Ned,\nSue, Swen, Uwe, Wendee,\nWes\n--extra near: Den, Dew, Dns, Edu,\nEnd, Nes, See 2 more things@436,\nSew, Sun\n--near: Deus, Duds, Ewes, News,\nNuns, Send, Sewn, Snus,\nSuds, Suse, Can still SUSS@514\n--kinda near: Deeds, Dudes, Dunes,\nNudes, Seeds, Sewed, Suede,\nUnwed, Weeds\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365, Smell/taste test@426, Sweden, Unseen, brand new\nstuff-in-general@545, new bride/groom stuff@145, anti-athletic club@514\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, improperly vowelled hot dog hut@447\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Weenees", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 456\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 457\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 447\nYou can see a restaurant door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "Man, you have heard a lot of reasons why this place or that place is good for comfort food, but one thing you can always rely on: owners misspell, grub will excel. The 'S on the sign triggers another rule: apostrophe botch, the sauce is top notch. The proprietor, Mr. Sweenee (of course,) gives you few free samples for such a bulk order--and becausee you look like you've come a ways--and man, you eat them so fast, you already wish you'd got more.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unused", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 654\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 644\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 645\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 545\nYou can see a shiny new store door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Ed Dunn deserves this new stuff, you imagine. You get a free new spatula for visiting in-person. You get some new pocket-sized technology for Ed Dunn. It all goes back in your package. It will trickle down to the less fortunate when he gets bored. You think.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedded", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 244\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 145\nYou can see a shiny new store door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "Expensive wedding presents have been discouraged by the government ever since the population was deemed unsustainable. But people now get married and divorced much more frequently, so non-loners still have that racket going. Well, it's your benefactor's money, not yours. He probably needs to do this to keep up business relations.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You glance at the kinda far line.\n\nEdDunn, Smell/taste test@426, Sweden, Unseen, Unused, Wedded, anti-athletic club@514.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wusses", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 543\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 533\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 523\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 524\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 514\nYou can see a library entrance here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You're surprised places like this exist, once you know what it really is. It isn't just rebellion against mandatory exercise for people who do not have computer jobs. It's a group of lazy people who are very clever about mooching off the various welfare programs. Perhaps Ed Dunn takes tips from them? You are given a manuscript that you throw in your package, and it's understood you had better not look at it. They can't beat you up, but they can ruin your credit.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Senses", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 436\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 426\nYou can see a secret entry here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "You are evaluated on various senses, and surprisingly, you are graded high on a sixth sense. You don't know what it is, but you're afraid asking will forfeit your score. You're given a certificate of senseness, which goes in the mysterious package. This will please Ed...I think?\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You click your tongue now you've solved everything up to kinda far. Next!\n\nYou glance at the far line.\n\nunworn clothes boutique@344, Weenees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unused", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 654\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 644\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 645\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 545", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 535", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unsewn", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 545\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\nA button falls off your outfit and rolls where you can't find it. Well, it's biodegradable enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Newness", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 564\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 565\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 564\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 574\nYou've been wandering for too long. You get tired, and you figure it's probably best to start over with a clean look on things. You push the button on your teleporter device, and back you go to the center, scrapping your remaining plans.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Newness", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 464\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 465\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nInterference from the teleport device has Ed talking about building on a couple things you previously did to do something bigger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unduded", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sewnsew", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 434", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Look", "response": "ED DUNN'S NEEDS\n\nLOOKING IN MIDDLE OF JOURNEY IS USELESS.\n--friends: Dee, Des, Ewen, Ned,\nSue, Swen, Uwe, Wendee,\nWes\n--extra near: Den, Dew, Dns, Edu,\nEnd, Nes, See 2 more things@436,\nSew, Sun\n--near: Deus, Duds, Ewes, News,\nNuns, Send, Sewn, Snus,\nSuds, Suse, Can still SUSS@514\n--kinda near: Deeds, Dudes, Dunes,\nNudes, Seeds, Sewed, Suede,\nUnwed, Weeds\n--kinda far: Return to Ed Dunn for evaluation and reward@365,\nSenses, Sweden, Unseen, Unused,\nWedded, Wusses\n--far: unworn clothes boutique@344, Weenees\n--extra far: 2nd-hand clothing boutique@325\n\n[You can put this in the header with t, though it is not recommended with Parchment, or you can toggle this warning with tt. You can also track just friends with f, or you can see one line with o.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Newduds", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nYou've been wandering for too long. You get tired, and you figure it's probably best to start over with a clean look on things. You push the button on your teleporter device, and back you go to the center, scrapping your remaining plans.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Newduds", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 354\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 354\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344\nYou can see a clothing store here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You wouldn't wear any clothes like this year's fashions, but you're not paying. You put the clothes in the mysterious package.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O.", "response": "You click your tongue now you've solved everything up to far. Next!\n\nYou glance at the extra far line.\n\n2nd-hand clothing boutique@325.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Usedduds", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 534\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 535\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\nYou feel beaten-down and second-hand all of a sudden. Maybe even wondering if you'll always be a gofer to Ed Dunn types. But maybe you are halfway to somewhere Ed needs you to go.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 435\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 335\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 325\nYou can see a clothing store here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Arriving in the used clothes store, you suddenly realize that there are probably used clothes in the mysterious package. You take them out and give them to the clerk, who credits your employer's account.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Newduds", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 354\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 354\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 344", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Eddunn", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 145\nYou've been wandering for too long. You get tired, and you figure it's probably best to start over with a clean look on things. You push the button on your teleporter device, and back you go to the center, scrapping your remaining plans.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Eddunn", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 245\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 345\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 365\nEd Dunn's secret hideout door is just where you remember it. You can enter it to report to your employer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You're confident you smoked this challenge. You blow past the guard at the front door!\n\nYou return, with a list of what you've done.\n\n\"Great job, kid! You got all my friends. They can keep a party exciting on their own.\"\n\n\"It's good to see you did all the fun stuff I put in there. I like fun.\"\n\nEd hands you some stuff: a Yankees world champs t-shirt from before their 90-year drought, a big block of dehydrated beer, a little extra for helping his business run smoothly, and a a CD--yes, a CD--of games Ed assures you are awesome, by some Andrew Schultz guy. Ed praises you as a new go-getter in the organization. \"Didn't even need my help! Kid, I wish I had some extra hard deliveries to make. You'd pick them off, easy.\"\n\nIn fact, he is so pleased, he invites you to his party! He even manages to impress the duende-endued DeeDee Sneed, who's engaged to old-money Sundude Senese. Ed calls you as \"Old sport\" as he related how Sundude called him \"Ed Dung\" once (and you can see why it hurts.) He is sure he will get her one day!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "But he also introduces you to another messenger he has hired. Including Denese (or Sed. I forgot to ask your preference) Senn. You two talk about--well, all kinds of things that will be so fun to learn, you can how you went through the side streets of Threediopolis. Something that recharges its...what's the word...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "...NEWNESS.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You reflect briefly that Z is the end of the alphabet, and people who Z too much may run afoul of efficiency laws.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "You hear a buzzing of droids in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "You fall asleep on your journey. You are awakened by whirring and clacking. Droids pick you up and give you an infra-red marking that identifies you as a potential leech on society--and juice and cookies, this time, since your possessions label you as moderately wealthy. They remind you the marking will fade in a year.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "No reason to, with vertical transport tubes to go up and down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "You have heard about teleporter overheat. It's quite a way to go. Maybe you should walk around a bit more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "End", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 545\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 555\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "Nothing to enter. It's all so unfamiliar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "Yes, indeed, the game map has 3 axes--x, y and z.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fuck", "response": "Dude! Eww.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "Teleporting technology, apparently only for the very richest people, kicks you back to the center of the city.\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\nWell, this kind of stinks. You're on a real cold streak. Maybe you can figure what to do by looking at your list. Maybe somewhere will make sense that didn't before you found a few other places.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Undue", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 544\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 454\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 554\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 555\nSomeone walks by and gives you an insult you didn't deserve.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Weeenes", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 443\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 446\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 456\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 457\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 447\nYou stop by a hot dog hut that doesn't quite look right.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Duende", "response": "Threediopolis, Sector 344\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 444\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 445\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 455\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 355\n\nThreediopolis, Sector 356", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "first effort", "snow storm", "TADS", "TADS 2", "walkthrough", "wizard" ]

[ 3, 15, 17, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "GlkTADS - A text-only TADS 2.5.3 Interpreter.\n\nMaintained by Stephen Granade <sgranade@phy.duke.edu>\n\nIt's a cold weekend in December of 1990, and it's been far too long since you have seen your friend John Baker! But you've finally managed to take some time out of your schedule to drive to Columbus and spend some \"quality time\" together. Quality time, of course, means that you and he are going to sample every bar that Ohio State University's High Street has to offer.\n\nJohn was to meet you at a favorite pizza and beer spot to start off the evening, but he hasn't showed up. John's always been rather spontaneous (read that as 'erratic'), so you think he'll show up eventually. But as the night wears on and you tire of downing beers by yourself, you decide to drive to his place and see if he's left a note or something for you there.\n\nYou find his front door unlocked and John nowhere to be found. Pretty tired from your earlier drive, and also buzzing a bit from the beer you drank, you quickly doze off in the living room.\n\nIt is now morning. A terrible snow storm is raging outside, the worst you've ever seen. You can't believe how much snow has piled up over the night. You still haven't heard from John, and you seem to now be trapped in his apartment.\n\nJohn's Fire Witch, Version 1.01 (02/04/95)\n\nThis is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the junk", "response": "There is a fairly large amount of junk here, consisting mostly of empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, old copies of alternative newspapers, etc. There is very little of it that you would consider touching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are outside the apartment on Red Robin Road. It is bitterly\ncold, and the storm drives snow into your face. Huge drifts of snow block your way in every direction you look. The door back into the apartment is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig in the snow", "response": "What do you want to dig in it with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yourself", "response": "The snow isn't important.\n\nYou know, it really is quite cold out here. Perhaps you should step back in to the apartment and warm up. You already can't feel your fingers and toes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes...\n\nIt is so cold that you are beginning to feel sleepy. You remember reading somewhere that this is a really bad sign. Perhaps you should step back into the apartment, unless you're really intent on freezing to death.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is the Dining Area, inaptly named here since it is never used\nfor that purpose. This room is less cluttered than the living room, but that's not saying much. The kitchen is to the east, while the living room lies to the south.\nSitting on the dinner table is a handwritten letter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the letter", "response": "It appears to be a letter from John to his landlord. It seems to display a lot of anger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the letter", "response": "Dear Pig:\n\nThere is no way that I am going to pay any more rent than I already do for this hole you call an apartment. The rent you're already charging is paramount to extortion for a struggling student like myself. You don't do a thing I ask, you don't answer maintenance calls, and you have refused to fix the hole that has opened up in the basement. So bugger off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the letter", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "It's your everyday dinner table. You notice numerous nicks and scratches in the surface, as though someone had repeatedly bounced a coin off of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "the rest of the apartment. This puzzles you for a moment, until you figure out that John probably eats out all the time. A door leads outside to the north, and the dining area is to the west.\nYou see a stove and a refrigerator here. Sitting on the stove is a\nbig pan. Sitting on the refrigerator is a typed letter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "It appears to be a letter to John from his landlord telling him that his rent is going up. The landlord sounds really greedy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "Dear Tenant:\n\nAs some of you may know, I have recently purchased a third sports car. This one was exceptionally expensive, and in order to maintain my extravagant lifestyle, I am going to have to increase your rent again. I can't exactly remember what I charge you now (my accountant handles all that stuff), but whatever it is, add $50 a month from now on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stove", "response": "There is a thin layer of dust on the stove; further evidence that this room is not used much. Continued inspection shows that the stove does not even work. You wonder if John is aware of this or if he even cares. On the stove you see a big pan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pan", "response": "This big pan appears to have been filled with lasagna at one time, but it is now empty. John told you yesterday on the phone that he was making it for the both of you. He has got to be one of the biggest gluttons you know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You open the refrigerator, and find it completely empty. John never ceases to amaze you. You close it back up, shaking your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the stove", "response": "The oven door seems to be stuck. It does open just a little bit, and you catch the pleasant odor of cooked fish, possibly herring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are outside the apartment, on a patio enclosed by fencing. The storm wails around you, driving snow into your face. It is bitterly cold. A fence door leads north out into the apartment complex parking lot, but there is so much snow piled against it that you doubt you could open it. The door back into the apartment is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fence", "response": "That's not important.\n\nYou know, it really is quite cold out here. Perhaps you should step back in to the apartment and warm up. You already can't feel your fingers and toes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "the rest of the apartment. This puzzles you for a moment, until you figure out that John probably eats out all the time. A door leads outside to the north, and the dining area is to the west.\nYou see a stove and a refrigerator here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is the Dining Area, inaptly named here since it is never used\nfor that purpose. This room is less cluttered than the living room, but that's not saying much. The kitchen is to the east, while the living room lies to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a handwritten letter, a typed letter, and a big pan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "This is the landing at the top of the steps. A laundry chute is in\nthe wall here. To the north is John's bedroom, while the bathroom lies to the east. The stairs lead down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chute", "response": "This is a laundry chute. It most likely travels from here down into the basement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The bathroom is typical for an apartment like this. The floor is\ntiled and bare. The shower curtain is a striking blend of wild colors. It is just beginning to show the first signs of mold. The landing lies to the west.\nSitting on the sink is a flashlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "The flashlight is off. There seems to be no battery in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mold", "response": "Pretty gross.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "It's a typical bathroom sink. What did you expect to find?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look about the same as always.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is the landing at the top of the steps. A laundry chute is in\nthe wall here. To the north is John's bedroom, while the bathroom lies to the east. The stairs lead down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is John's bedroom. You are immediately surprised by the sheer volume of dirty clothes that cover the floor. The room itself is furnished with rather spartan furniture. You can exit back to the landing to the south.\nYou see a bed here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clothes", "response": "There is a terrific volume of dirty clothes here, completely covering the floor to a depth of about three inches. Who knows what all could be mixed in among them?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search clothes", "response": "You find a crystal card! What else could be in here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search clothes", "response": "You find a picture! What else could be in here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search clothes", "response": "You find a modem! What else could be in here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine picture", "response": "This is a picture of a rather lusty-looking girl. She must be very important to John, for him to have left the picture all mixed in with his important clothes like that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crystal card", "response": "This card is about the size of a playing card. It is made out of some type of gleaming crystal, and is grey in color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "Nothing happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "It looks like an ordinary bed. You would have been disappointed in John if it had been made, but it's not.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the bed", "response": "You find a battery and a book!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You make the bed", "response": "You start to make the bed, and then decide that John might get upset about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put battery in the flashlight", "response": "Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "The book appears to be a diary, probably John's. You're not going to read it are you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read book", "response": "The diary goes on about mundane personal matters, as diaries are wont to do, for quite some time. A recurring theme seems to be how envious John is of people who are out \"living life\". This puzzles you a bit, since John has done more crazy shit than any 10 people you know, with the possible exception of some of his psycho friends.\n\nThe last couple of pages are really strange. Apparently a few days ago, a hole opened in John's basement due to some water damage. John has been having dreams about a \"Fire Witch\" and an \"Ice Wizard\" that live down this hole. Here's the part that's really weird: he thinks the dreams are real. The ice wizard has imprisoned the fire witch, and John seems almost obsessed with freeing her. He also talks about a \"magic crystal card\" that the fire witch gave him in a dream. By rubbing it and saying the \"magic word\" necken-sway, John thinks that he can find the fire witch. He talks about the card as if he actually has it in his possession.\n\nObviously, years of heavy drinking have finally destroyed his mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "Nothing happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub the card and sathe necken-sway", "response": "Nothing happens.\n\nI don't understand that sentence.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is John's bedroom. You are immediately surprised by the sheer volume of dirty clothes that cover the floor. The room itself is furnished with rather spartan furniture. You can exit back to the landing to the south.\nYou see a bed, a crystal card, a picture, a modem, and a book here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "crystal card: Taken.\npicture: Taken.\nmodem: Taken.\nbook: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This is the landing at the top of the steps. A laundry chute is in\nthe wall here. To the north is John's bedroom, while the bathroom lies to the east. The stairs lead down.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This is the basement of the apartment. It is unfinished, and there\nis no furniture here. There is a large hole in the west wall, probably large enough for you to fit through, and a set of stairs lead up.\nYou see a board here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the board", "response": "This is a 2x4 board. It appears very sturdy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the board", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hole", "response": "The hole leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "and the basement of one of his neighbors. You are pretty cramped; you can barely fit in here. It is also kind of dark, making you strain to see. A dark, forbidding hole leads down, while you can return to the basement to the east.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You carefully climb down the hole into darkness. It goes straight down for at least 100 feet; luckily it is pretty rough and there are many handholds and places to position your feet. Finally, you drop down into a room below.\n\nIt's pitch black.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You have entered a grotto made entirely of some type of gleaming red-tinted crystal. The crystal achieves the effect of appearing both natural and crafted. Floors, ceiling, and walls all smoothly blend together. The light from your flashlight is reflected back to you both from the direction you are pointing it and from other parts of the room, as gleams of red light seem to travel through the crystal to emerge elsewhere.\n\nThe overall effect is quite beautiful.\n\nA hole in the ceiling, just reachable, leads up. To the south, the crystal slowly turns into some type of grey stone and becomes a tunnel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "As you rub the card, its color changes to grey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crystal", "response": "This card is about the size of a playing card. It is made out of some type of gleaming crystal, and is grey in color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Necken-swnecken-sway", "response": "Perhaps you should try saying that word like this: say \"necken-sway\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "As you rub the card, its color changes to red.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the card", "response": "This card is about the size of a playing card. It is made out of some type of gleaming crystal, and is red in color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "You jump up and manage to get yourself at least partly into the hole. Pulling yourself into it, you start your long climb upwards. You arrive in the hollow space out of breath.\n\nand the basement of one of his neighbors. You are pretty cramped; you can barely fit in here. It is also kind of dark, making you strain to see. A dark, forbidding hole leads down, while you can return to the basement to the east.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You carefully climb down the hole into darkness. It goes straight down for at least 100 feet; luckily it is pretty rough and there are many handholds and places to position your feet. Finally, you drop down into a room below.\n\nYou have entered a grotto made entirely of some type of gleaming red-tinted crystal. The crystal achieves the effect of appearing both natural and crafted. Floors, ceiling, and walls all smoothly blend together. The light from your flashlight is reflected back to you both from the direction you are pointing it and from other parts of the room, as gleams of red light seem to travel through the crystal to emerge elsewhere.\n\nThe overall effect is quite beautiful.\n\nA hole in the ceiling, just reachable, leads up. To the south, the crystal slowly turns into some type of grey stone and becomes a tunnel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Long Tunnel (1)\nThis is a long tunnel leading north and south. It has definitely\nbeen purposefully made, being tiled with crafted stone. It looks like something that would have been created centuries ago. You can see the Red Crystal Grotto to the north, and a side corridor leads off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "This room, tiled with the same stone as the long tunnel, smells a\nbit dank. Moisture must get in here somewhere. The room appears to be a cell block, mainly because there are jail cells with entrances on the northern, eastern, and southern walls. The exit is to the west.\n\nThe northern cell appears to be completely filled up by something massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The northern cell is completely filled with ice. You can't enter it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ice", "response": "The ice completely fills the northern cell. It feels cold and slick to the touch, but does not appear to be melting. Something is frozen in the center of the ice, a human figure. As you continue to peer through the frozen mass, you realize with a shiver that it looks a lot like John.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at John", "response": "John appears to be frozen in the center of the ice in the northern cell. You are worried about his health.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are in a non-descript 10 x 10 room of tiled stone. It has the appearances of a cell, but has no door. There is an exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you try to move west through the exit, you feel as though you are pushing yourself through thick molasses. It takes quite a bit of effort and no small amount of time to get yourself back out into the cell block.\n\nThis room, tiled with the same stone as the long tunnel, smells a\nbit dank. Moisture must get in here somewhere. The room appears to be a cell block, mainly because there are jail cells with entrances on the northern, eastern, and southern walls. The exit is to the west.\n\nThe northern cell appears to be completely filled up by something massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are in a non-descript 10 x 10 room of tiled stone. It has the appearances of a cell, but has no door. There is an exit to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "As you try to move north through the exit, you feel as though you are pushing yourself through thick molasses. It takes quite a bit of effort and no small amount of time to get yourself back out into the cell block.\n\nThis room, tiled with the same stone as the long tunnel, smells a\nbit dank. Moisture must get in here somewhere. The room appears to be a cell block, mainly because there are jail cells with entrances on the northern, eastern, and southern walls. The exit is to the west.\n\nThe northern cell appears to be completely filled up by something massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Long Tunnel (1)\nThis is a long tunnel leading north and south. It has definitely\nbeen purposefully made, being tiled with crafted stone. It looks like something that would have been created centuries ago. You can see the Red Crystal Grotto to the north, and a side corridor leads off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Long Tunnel (2)\nThe long tunnel continues to lead north and south. The same tiling\nis present here as in the rest of the tunnel. A side corridor leads off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Long Tunnel (3)\nThe long tunnel continues to lead both north and south. The carefully-crafted stone tile appears to be a darker grey here. Your way to the south appears to be blocked by a deep pit, but there is a side corridor leading off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a side corridor leading east and west. It is somewhat\nsmaller than the long tunnel, which lies to the east. An archway lies to the west. You can't put your finger on it, but you have a very strange feeling about that archway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the archway", "response": "The archway is made of the same tiled stone as the rest of the construction seems to be made of. Shining your light through the archway reveals the dim outline of a room with a safe in the wall beyond it.\n\nThere is something that you can't put your finger on about the archway that bothers you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "As you are moving through the archway, you hear a sound much like that of breaking glass, and you suddenly become very disoriented. When you regain your senses a moment later, you are not where you thought you would be.\n\nYou are in a non-descript 10 x 10 room of tiled stone. It has the appearances of a cell, but has no door. There is an exit to the west.\n\nThere is a loud and horrible rushing noise in your ears, and the room appears to be filling up with what you would describe as steam if it were not so very very cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You frantically try to push out of the room, but moving through the doorway is like trying to push through thick molasses.\n\nYour flesh feels like leather and your eyes like glass as a huge block of ice forms around you. Mysteriously you are not killed outright by this; instead you fall into a deep sleep. Unfortunately, within a few days without food you expire anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pit", "response": "You can just make out the bottom of the pit with your flashlight; the floor is covered with sharp spikes pointing upwards. This is not something you want to fall into. The pit is pretty far across, too. Jumping it would be chancy, and you'd probably want to be carrying as little as possible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The walls here are made of a mixture of stone and steel. The room\nis completely dominated by a large metal vault whose door is almost the entire east wall. Light illuminates this room, but you can't tell where it is coming from. You can exit back to the long tunnel to the west.\nYou see a thin rod here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rod", "response": "You've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "This thin rod is made of some indeterminite material and is black in color. It looks like a magician's wand. A word is written in a fancy looking script on the rod's side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It is made of steel, and probably about three feet thick. There are three dials on the vault door, each one is notated with numbers ranging from 1 to 36. Some quick mental arithmetic tells you that means over 45,000 combinations. Who knows? Maybe you'll get a hunch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a handwritten letter, a typed letter, a big pan, a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, a picture, a modem, a book, and a board. The flashlight seems to contain a battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in pan", "response": "handwritten letter: You can't put anything into the big pan.\ntyped letter: You can't put anything into the big pan.\nbig pan: You can't put the big pan in itself!\nflashlight: You can't put anything into the big pan.\ncrystal card: You can't put anything into the big pan.\npicture: You can't put anything into the big pan.\nmodem: You can't put anything into the big pan.\nbook: You can't put anything into the big pan.\nboard: You can't put anything into the big pan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the board", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave wand", "response": "As you wave the thin rod, blue sparkles appear in the air around it. The rod itself is glowing with a soft blue light.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The walls here are made of a mixture of stone and steel. The room\nis completely dominated by a large metal vault whose door is almost the entire east wall. Light illuminates this room, but you can't tell where it is coming from. You can exit back to the long tunnel to the west.\nYou see a board, a thin rod, and a big pan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "board: Taken.\nthin rod: Taken.\nbig pan: You've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the wand", "response": "(at the archway)\nYou miss.\n\nThe thin rod is no longer glowing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You have a handwritten letter, a typed letter, a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, a picture, a modem, a book, a board, and a thin rod. The flashlight seems to contain a battery.\n\nYou're feeling a bit run-down and tired. This always happens when you sleep on a floor! You get in the mood for a nap just a little while after getting up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Status", "response": "In a total of 150 turns, you have achieved a score of 0 points out of a possible 10.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is the basement of the apartment. It is unfinished, and there\nis no furniture here. There is a large hole in the west wall, probably large enough for you to fit through, and a set of stairs lead up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "This is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "Snuggling up in John's bed, you drift pleasantly off to sleep. During your comfortable sleep, you have a dream. You are wandering through a vast desert at night. The wind whips sand into you, and it is cold enough to make you shiver. You know that you are looking for something.\n\nFinally, you come upon a cage just sitting out in the middle of the lonely expanse. Inside is a beautiful woman in crimson robes, who turns to face you as you approach.\n\nShe seems troubled. \"You are not the one who usually comes,\" she says, and then drops her head. \"I do not have the strength to continue very much longer. You must get this to the one who calls himself 'John'.\"\n\nWith what seems like a great amount of effort, she hands you a small slip of paper through the bars of the cage. Almost immediately the cage disappears, the woman with it.\n\nYou wake up some time later, feeling refreshed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paper", "response": "This small slip of paper holds some cryptic numbers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the paper", "response": "\"24-18-19\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The walls here are made of a mixture of stone and steel. The room\nis completely dominated by a large metal vault whose door is almost the entire east wall. Light illuminates this room, but you can't tell where it is coming from. You can exit back to the long tunnel to the west.\nYou see a big pan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial to 25", "response": "Which dial do you mean, the first dial, the second dial, or the third dial?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the vault", "response": "You pull on the vault door with all of your might. You hear a loud 'click', and then it swings open. Almost immediately, a huge glossy-black demon emerges from the vault; it looks *angry*. You are quite sure it intends to kill you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the demon", "response": "The demon is about 12 feet tall, has large leathery bat-like wings, and is heavily muscled. Its skin is glossy black. Large tusks protrude from its face, and it looks really angry. You suddenly realize that it may not have been a good idea to take time out to examine it more closely.\n\nThe demon's hand grabs your right shoulder, jerking you up off your feet like you were a rag doll. You hear it howling with glee as it rips you neatly in half.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the demon with the pan", "response": "It's not very effective to attack with the big pan.\n\nThe demon's hand grabs your right shoulder, jerking you up off your feet like you were a rag doll. You hear it howling with glee as it rips you neatly in half.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Long Tunnel (3)\nThe long tunnel continues to lead both north and south. The carefully-crafted stone tile appears to be a darker grey here. Your way to the south appears to be blocked by a deep pit, but there is a side corridor leading off to the east.\n\nThe demon follows you here, anger and murder glowing in its evil eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Long Tunnel (2)\nThe long tunnel continues to lead north and south. The same tiling\nis present here as in the rest of the tunnel. A side corridor leads off to the west.\n\nThe demon follows you here, anger and murder glowing in its evil eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is a side corridor leading east and west. It is somewhat\nsmaller than the long tunnel, which lies to the east. An archway lies to the west. You can't put your finger on it, but you have a very strange feeling about that archway.\n\nThe demon follows you here, anger and murder glowing in its evil eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "As you are moving through the archway, you hear a sound much like that of breaking glass, and you suddenly become very disoriented. When you regain your senses a moment later, you are not where you thought you would be.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point.]\nEastern Cell\nYou are in a non-descript 10 x 10 room of tiled stone. It has the appearances of a cell, but has no door. There is an exit to the west.\n\nThere is a loud and horrible rushing noise in your ears, and the room appears to be filling up with what you would describe as steam if it were not so very very cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Long Tunnel (1)\nThis is a long tunnel leading north and south. It has definitely\nbeen purposefully made, being tiled with crafted stone. It looks like something that would have been created centuries ago. You can see the Red Crystal Grotto to the north, and a side corridor leads off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This room, tiled with the same stone as the long tunnel, smells a\nbit dank. Moisture must get in here somewhere. The room appears to be a cell block, mainly because there are jail cells with entrances on the northern, eastern, and southern walls. The exit is to the west.\n\nAll of the cells appear to be individually filled by something massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the demon", "response": "The demon appears to be trapped in the ice. Good thing, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the eastern cell", "response": "As you come closer to examine the eastern cell, you see that it is completely filled with a huge block of ice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the eastern ice", "response": "The ice completely fills the eastern cell. It feels cold and slick to the touch, but does not appear to be melting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the southern ice", "response": "The ice completely fills the southern cell. It feels cold and slick to the touch, but does not appear to be melting. Something is frozen in the center of the ice, huge and massive. It looks to be the demon that was chasing you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The walls here are made of a mixture of stone and steel. The room\nis completely dominated by a large metal vault whose door is almost the entire east wall. Light illuminates this room, but you can't tell where it is coming from. You can exit back to the long tunnel to the west. You can enter the open vault door to the east.\nYou see a big pan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are inside the vault. The interior is about 10 x 10 feet, and\nall of the walls are made of dull grey steel. You are very sure that nothing gets in or out of here when the vault door is closed. The room appears bare for its size. The vault door is to the west.\n\nSitting forlornly on the floor, lost in the emptiness of the vault, is a single red gem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gem", "response": "This brilliant red gem seems to almost sparkle with a light of its own. It feels slightly warm to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gem", "response": "[Your score just went up by 1 point.]\nYou've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the letter", "response": "Which letter do you mean, the handwritten letter, or the typed letter?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Both", "response": "handwritten letter: Dropped.\ntyped letter: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gem", "response": "[Your score just went up by 1 point.]\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The walls here are made of a mixture of stone and steel. The room\nis completely dominated by a large metal vault whose door is almost the entire east wall. Light illuminates this room, but you can't tell where it is coming from. You can exit back to the long tunnel to the west. You can enter the open vault door to the east.\nYou see a big pan, a handwritten letter, and a typed letter here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gem", "response": "This brilliant red gem seems to almost sparkle with a light of its own. It feels slightly warm to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "flashlight: Dropped.\ncrystal card: Dropped.\npicture: Dropped.\nmodem: Dropped.\nbook: Dropped.\nboard: Dropped.\nthin rod: Dropped.\nslip of paper: Dropped.\nred gem: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump over the pit", "response": "You back up about a dozen feet, and with a loud exhale you start on a dead-sprint straight at the pit. You leap into the air at its edge, straining for the edge on the other side. You immediately know you're not going to make it.\n\n*** WHACK ***\n\nYour body smacks the side of the pit, and you claw at the edge, just barely in your grasp. Your scrambling hands find some loose stone tiles and dig in. With an effort much-aided by terror, you pull yourself up over the edge, and worm your way to the safety of the floor beyond. You DO NOT want to try that again.\n\nIt's pitch black.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump over the pit", "response": "You back up about a dozen feet, and with a loud exhale you start on a dead-sprint straight at the pit. You leap into the air at its edge, straining for the edge on the other side. You immediately know you're not going to make it.\n\n*** WHACK ***\n\nYour body smacks the side of the pit, and you claw at the edge, just barely in your grasp. Your scrambling hands find some loose stone tiles and dig in. With an effort much-aided by terror, you pull yourself up over the edge, and worm your way to the safety of the floor beyond. You DO NOT want to try that again.\n\nLong Tunnel (4)\nThis is a long tunnel leading north and south. It is tiled with carefully-crafted stone. Your way to the north appears to be blocked by a deep pit, but there is a side corridor leading west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are on a small ledge (barely big enough to hold you) looking out over a huge cavern. The floor of the cavern (if there is one) lies so far down that you cannot see it, while the ceiling is about 40 feet above you. You can return to the long tunnel to the east.\n\nTo the west, hanging by a chain from the ceiling, is a large wooden disk. The chain is attached to the center of the disk, which looks to be about 5 feet wide. You think that you could probably jump to the disk from here. It's not nearly as long a distance to have to jump as the pit was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the disk", "response": "You've already seen all of the disk that you can make out from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You back up a bit in order to get some speed, and take off running towards the disk at your best sprint. At the edge of the ledge, you leap out into the cavern towards the disk. You make it fairly easily, but the disk tilts sickeningly as you land on it. You begin a mad scramble towards the chain as gravity tries to slide you off the edge. Many frightening seconds later, your hands grasp the chain and you pull yourself to the center of the disk. Whew!\n\nYou are precariously standing on a wooden disk, hanging suspended\nfrom the cavern ceiling by a chain. You cannot see the floor of the cavern. To both the east and west, you can see ledges in the middle of the cavern walls. The problem is, although it was easy to jump *to* the disk, you don't have enough room for a running start to jump *off* the disk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swing", "response": "(the disk)\nUsing your own body, you begin swinging the disk from east to west. After about a minute, you've got quite an arc going.\n\nThe disk swings to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe disk is swinging to the west, but is in a neutral position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe disk swings to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As the disk reaches the point closest to the west ledge, you make your leap! No problem! You land with a thud that takes your breath away for a few seconds, but you are safe and sound.\n\nYou are on a small ledge (barely big enough to hold you) looking out over a huge cavern. The floor of the cavern (if there is one) lies so far down that you cannot see it, while the ceiling is about 40 feet above you. The ledge leads a short distance into the cavern wall and immediately turns south.\n\nTo the east, hanging by a chain from the ceiling, is a large wooden disk. The chain is attached to the center of the disk, which looks to be about 5 feet wide. The disk is a little farther away from here than it was from the east ledge; although you could jump to it from here, you don't know if you could stay on it when you got there or not.\n\nThe disk comes to rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You have entered a grotto made entirely of some type of gleaming green-tinted crystal. The crystal achieves the effect of appearing both natural and crafted. Floors, ceiling, and walls all smoothly blend together. The light from your flashlight is reflected back to you both from the direction you are pointing it and from other parts of the room, as gleams of green light seem to travel through the crystal to emerge elsewhere.\n\nThe overall effect is quite beautiful.\n\nTo the north, the crystal turns to stone and turns immediately east.\nAn opening in the crystal leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the card", "response": "This card is about the size of a playing card. It is made out of some type of gleaming crystal, and is green in color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "As you rub the card, its color changes to green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Long Tunnel (3)\nThe long tunnel continues to lead both north and south. The carefully-crafted stone tile appears to be a darker grey here. Your way to the south appears to be blocked by a deep pit, but there is a side corridor leading off to the east.\nYou see a picture, a modem, a book, a board, a thin rod, a slip of paper, and a red gem here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "picture: Taken.\nmodem: Taken.\nbook: Taken.\nboard: Taken.\nthin rod: Taken.\nslip of paper: Taken.\nred gem: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "As you rub the card, its color changes to green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "A small rather non-descript grey-stone cavern, this location does\nhave one thing that makes it distinct: an ornate archway leading south. You can see the green crystal grotto to the north.\nThere is a small, fierce guardian creature blocking your way to the south. For some reason, the name 'goblin' pops into your head.\n\nThe goblin charges you, but you dodge aside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the goblin", "response": "The goblin is a little smaller than you are, but it appears very fierce. Small tusks protrude from its pig-like face, and razor-sharp talons spring from its hands. The goblin appears to be wearing a large lead key around its neck.\n\nThe goblin snarls at you like a mad dog.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack goblin", "response": "(with the board)\nYou ram the end of the board into the goblin's stomach, knocking it back several feet. It looks hurt, but also more than a little furious.\n\nThe goblin charges you, but you dodge aside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "Holding the board like a baseball bat, you crack the goblin upside the head. A lead key (previously unseen) flies from a chain around the goblin's neck. While the goblin staggers back dazed, you take advantage of the situation and crack it in the head again. This time you hear a sickening snap, and it drops to the ground dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at key", "response": "The key is about two inches long and pretty thick for a key. It is made of lead; this puzzles you as you would expect a key to be made of a stronger metal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the archway", "response": "The archway is made entirely of marble. It leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You have entered a grotto made entirely of some type of gleaming green-tinted crystal. The crystal achieves the effect of appearing both natural and crafted. Floors, ceiling, and walls all smoothly blend together. The light from your flashlight is reflected back to you both from the direction you are pointing it and from other parts of the room, as gleams of green light seem to travel through the crystal to emerge elsewhere.\n\nThe overall effect is quite beautiful.\n\nTo the north, the crystal turns to stone and turns immediately east.\nAn opening in the crystal leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, a picture, a modem, a book, a board, a thin rod, a slip of paper, and a red gem.\nThe flashlight seems to contain a battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A small rather non-descript grey-stone cavern, this location does\nhave one thing that makes it distinct: an ornate archway leading south. You can see the green crystal grotto to the north.\nYou see a dead goblin and a lead key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at goblin", "response": "It's definitely dead, apparently from a cracked skull. Its pig-like face still holds an expression of anger and stupidity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This tiny room is made entirely of smooth, polished marble. The\nonly feature is a small marble pedestal in the southern portion of the room. It appears to be firmly attached to the floor, or perhaps even a part of it. The only exit is north.\nSitting on the marble pedestal is a blue gem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gem", "response": "[Your score just went up by 1 point.]\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "This brilliant blue gem seems to almost sparkle with a light of its own. It feels slightly cool to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pedestal", "response": "The pedestal is made entirely of marble. It appears to be firmly attached to the floor, possibly even a part of it. There's nothing on the marble pedestal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A small rather non-descript grey-stone cavern, this location does\nhave one thing that makes it distinct: an ornate archway leading south. You can see the green crystal grotto to the north.\nYou see a dead goblin here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You have entered a grotto made entirely of some type of gleaming green-tinted crystal. The crystal achieves the effect of appearing both natural and crafted. Floors, ceiling, and walls all smoothly blend together. The light from your flashlight is reflected back to you both from the direction you are pointing it and from other parts of the room, as gleams of green light seem to travel through the crystal to emerge elsewhere.\n\nThe overall effect is quite beautiful.\n\nTo the north, the crystal turns to stone and turns immediately east.\nAn opening in the crystal leads south.\nYou see a modem, a slip of paper, and a book here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are on a small ledge (barely big enough to hold you) looking out over a huge cavern. The floor of the cavern (if there is one) lies so far down that you cannot see it, while the ceiling is about 40 feet above you. The ledge leads a short distance into the cavern wall and immediately turns south.\n\nTo the east, hanging by a chain from the ceiling, is a large wooden disk. The chain is attached to the center of the disk, which looks to be about 5 feet wide. The disk is a little farther away from here than it was from the east ledge; although you could jump to it from here, you don't know if you could stay on it when you got there or not.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The disk is a little farther away from the West Ledge as it is from the East Ledge. You know that you could jump to it, but after the way it tilted last time, the thought of making a longer jump kind of worries you. If you want to jump to the disk from here, you'll have to tell me so explicitly by saying 'jump'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You back up a bit in order to get some speed, and take off running towards the disk at your best sprint. At the edge of the ledge, you leap out into the cavern towards the disk. You make it fairly easily, but the disk tilts sickeningly as you land on it. You don't have as good of a position as you have had before, and after a few moments of mad scrambling, you slide off the disk to begin a long plummet to the cavern floors below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gem", "response": "Which gem do you mean, the red gem, or the blue gem?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blue", "response": "This brilliant blue gem seems to almost sparkle with a light of its own. It feels slightly cool to the touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This room, tiled with the same stone as the long tunnel, smells a\nbit dank. Moisture must get in here somewhere. The room appears to be a cell block, mainly because there are jail cells with entrances on the northern, eastern, and southern walls. The exit is to the west.\n\nThe northern and southern cells are individually filled up by something massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The northern cell is completely filled with ice. You can't enter it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Melt northern ice", "response": "What are you going to do? Breathe on it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the red gem at it", "response": "You miss.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all except card and the flashlight", "response": "picture: Dropped.\nboard: Dropped.\nthin rod: Dropped.\nlead key: Dropped.\nblue gem: Dropped.\nred gem: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump over the pit", "response": "You back up about a dozen feet, and with a loud exhale you start on a dead-sprint straight at the pit. You leap into the air at its edge, straining for the edge on the other side. You immediately know you're not going to make it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "picture: Taken.\nboard: Taken.\nthin rod: Taken.\nlead key: Taken.\nblue gem: Taken.\nred gem: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "(the pit)\nYou back up about a dozen feet, and with a loud exhale you start on a dead-sprint straight at the pit. You leap into the air at its edge, straining for the edge on the other side. You immediately know you're not going to make it.\n\n*** WHACK ***\n\nYour body smacks the side of the pit, and you claw at the edge, just barely in your grasp. Your scrambling hands find some loose stone tiles and dig in. With an effort much-aided by terror, you pull yourself up over the edge, and worm your way to the safety of the floor beyond. You DO NOT want to try that again.\n\nLong Tunnel (4)\nThis is a long tunnel leading north and south. It is tiled with carefully-crafted stone. Your way to the north appears to be blocked by a deep pit, but there is a side corridor leading west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You have entered a grotto made entirely of some type of gleaming blue-tinted crystal. The crystal achieves the effect of appearing both natural and crafted. Floors, ceiling, and walls all smoothly blend together. The light from your flashlight is reflected back to you both from the direction you are pointing it and from other parts of the room, as gleams of blue light seem to travel through the crystal to emerge elsewhere.\n\nThe overall effect is quite beautiful.\n\nTo the north, the crystal slowly turns into some type of grey stone and becomes a tunnel. A doorway cut right out of the crystal leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This small cavern appears completely natural. The rock is very\nrough, and stalactites hang from the ceiling. To the north there is an exit laced with gleaming blue crystal. To the south, the cavern opens up into a much larger cavern, with a drop-off that leads down farther than you can see. Spanning the vast emptiness of the large cavern is a bridge that appears to be made entirely of ice. A chill comes from that direction.\nA red tinted devil stands casually against the cavern wall here. He appears to be ignoring you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the devil", "response": "The devil is about your size, and mostly human in appearance. The only thing that gives him away are two small horns protruding from his head and a slight reddish tint to his skin. Quite a handsome fellow actually. He is leaning casually against the cavern wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the devil about the devil", "response": "\"Well, I'm *a* devil, but not *the* devil. But I am due for a promotion. And I'm better than him anyway.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack the devil", "response": "What do you want to attack it with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the devil about the task", "response": "\"Glad you asked. Hmmmm....\".\n\nThe devil produces a small leather bag from the folds of his clothes and throws it at your feet.\n\n\"That's a magic bag that can hold as much of anything that you can fit into the opening. You take it, fill it full of all of the sins, and bring it back to me. If you've got all of the sins in there, and nothing but sin, I'll let you by. BUT - if you have anything in there that isn't a sin, or you don't have them all, I get your soul.\"\n\nThe devil flashes you a quick smile.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bag", "response": "This small leather bag smells faintly of sulphur. You can sense power emanating from it. There's nothing in the small bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Long Tunnel (4)\nThis is a long tunnel leading north and south. It is tiled with carefully-crafted stone. Your way to the north appears to be blocked by a deep pit, but there is a side corridor leading west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are on a small ledge (barely big enough to hold you) looking out over a huge cavern. The floor of the cavern (if there is one) lies so far down that you cannot see it, while the ceiling is about 40 feet above you. You can return to the long tunnel to the east.\n\nTo the west, hanging by a chain from the ceiling, is a large wooden disk. The chain is attached to the center of the disk, which looks to be about 5 feet wide. You think that you could probably jump to the disk from here. It's not nearly as long a distance to have to jump as the pit was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You back up a bit in order to get some speed, and take off running towards the disk at your best sprint. At the edge of the ledge, you leap out into the cavern towards the disk. You make it fairly easily, but the disk tilts sickeningly as you land on it. You begin a mad scramble towards the chain as gravity tries to slide you off the edge. Many frightening seconds later, your hands grasp the chain and you pull yourself to the center of the disk. Whew!\n\nYou are precariously standing on a wooden disk, hanging suspended\nfrom the cavern ceiling by a chain. You cannot see the floor of the cavern. To both the east and west, you can see ledges in the middle of the cavern walls. The problem is, although it was easy to jump *to* the disk, you don't have enough room for a running start to jump *off* the disk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swing", "response": "(the disk)\nUsing your own body, you begin swinging the disk from east to west. After about a minute, you've got quite an arc going.\n\nThe disk swings to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe disk is swinging to the west, but is in a neutral position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe disk swings to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the bag", "response": "I don't know how to enter the small bag.\n\nThe disk comes to rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "It would be pure suicide to try to jump to the west ledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(the disk)\nUsing your own body, you begin swinging the disk from east to west. After about a minute, you've got quite an arc going.\n\nThe disk swings to the east.\n\nTime passes...\n\nThe disk is swinging to the west, but is in a neutral position.\n\nTime passes...\n\nThe disk swings to the west.\n\nAs the disk reaches the point closest to the west ledge, you make your leap! No problem! You land with a thud that takes your breath away for a few seconds, but you are safe and sound.\n\nYou are on a small ledge (barely big enough to hold you) looking out over a huge cavern. The floor of the cavern (if there is one) lies so far down that you cannot see it, while the ceiling is about 40 feet above you. The ledge leads a short distance into the cavern wall and immediately turns south.\n\nTo the east, hanging by a chain from the ceiling, is a large wooden disk. The chain is attached to the center of the disk, which looks to be about 5 feet wide. The disk is a little farther away from here than it was from the east ledge; although you could jump to it from here, you don't know if you could stay on it when you got there or not.\n\nThe disk comes to rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Long Tunnel (1)\nThis is a long tunnel leading north and south. It has definitely\nbeen purposefully made, being tiled with crafted stone. It looks like something that would have been created centuries ago. You can see the Red Crystal Grotto to the north, and a side corridor leads off to the east.\n\nLong Tunnel (2)\nThe long tunnel continues to lead north and south. The same tiling\nis present here as in the rest of the tunnel. A side corridor leads off to the west.\n\nLong Tunnel (3)\nThe long tunnel continues to lead both north and south. The carefully-crafted stone tile appears to be a darker grey here. Your way to the south appears to be blocked by a deep pit, but there is a side corridor leading off to the east.\nYou see a picture, a modem, a book, a board, a thin rod, a slip of paper, and a red gem here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "picture: Taken.\nmodem: Taken.\nbook: Taken.\nboard: Taken.\nthin rod: Taken.\nslip of paper: Taken.\nred gem: You've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the picture in the bag", "response": "Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "red gem: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are inside the vault. The interior is about 10 x 10 feet, and\nall of the walls are made of dull grey steel. You are very sure that nothing gets in or out of here when the vault door is closed. The room appears bare for its size. The vault door is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pan", "response": "big pan: You've already got your hands full.\nhandwritten letter: You've already got your hands full.\ntyped letter: You've already got your hands full.\n\nYou've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops bag", "response": "picture: The picture is already in the small bag!\nsmall bag: You can't put the small bag in itself!\nmodem: Done.\nbook: Done.\nboard: Done.\nthin rod: Done.\nslip of paper: Done.\nred gem: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "handwritten letter: Taken.\ntyped letter: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the letters in the bag", "response": "handwritten letter: Done.\ntyped letter: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine picture", "response": "This is a picture of a rather lusty-looking girl. She must be very important to John, for him to have left the picture all mixed in with his important clothes like that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the typed letter", "response": "It appears to be a letter to John from his landlord telling him that his rent is going up. The landlord sounds really greedy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the handwritten letter", "response": "It appears to be a letter from John to his landlord. It seems to display a lot of anger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "The book appears to be a diary, probably John's. You're not going to read it are you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read book", "response": "The diary goes on about mundane personal matters, as diaries are wont to do, for quite some time. A recurring theme seems to be how envious John is of people who are out \"living life\". This puzzles you a bit, since John has done more crazy shit than any 10 people you know, with the possible exception of some of his psycho friends.\n\nThe last couple of pages are really strange. Apparently a few days ago, a hole opened in John's basement due to some water damage. John has been having dreams about a \"Fire Witch\" and an \"Ice Wizard\" that live down this hole. Here's the part that's really weird: he thinks the dreams are real. The ice wizard has imprisoned the fire witch, and John seems almost obsessed with freeing her. He also talks about a \"magic crystal card\" that the fire witch gave him in a dream. By rubbing it and saying the \"magic word\" necken-sway, John thinks that he can find the fire witch. He talks about the card as if he actually has it in his possession.\n\nObviously, years of heavy drinking have finally destroyed his mind.\n\nThe diary goes on about mundane personal matters, as diaries are wont to do, for quite some time. A recurring theme seems to be how envious John is of people who are out \"living life\". This puzzles you a bit, since John has done more crazy shit than any 10 people you know, with the possible exception of some of his psycho friends.\n\nThe last couple of pages are really strange. Apparently a few days ago, a hole opened in John's basement due to some water damage. John has been having dreams about a \"Fire Witch\" and an \"Ice Wizard\" that live down this hole. Here's the part that's really weird: he thinks the dreams are real. The ice wizard has imprisoned the fire witch, and John seems almost obsessed with freeing her. He also talks about a \"magic crystal card\" that the fire witch gave him in a dream. By rubbing it and saying the \"magic word\" necken-sway, John thinks that he can find the fire witch. He talks about the card as if he actually has it in his possession.\n\nObviously, years of heavy drinking have finally destroyed his mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the board", "response": "This is a 2x4 board. It appears very sturdy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the card", "response": "This card is about the size of a playing card. It is made out of some type of gleaming crystal, and is red in color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the bag", "response": "This small leather bag smells faintly of sulphur. You can sense power emanating from it. In the small bag you see a picture, a modem, a book, a board, a thin rod, a slip of paper, a red gem, a big pan, a handwritten letter, and a typed letter.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The walls here are made of a mixture of stone and steel. The room\nis completely dominated by a large metal vault whose door is almost the entire east wall. Light illuminates this room, but you can't tell where it is coming from. You can exit back to the long tunnel to the west. You can enter the open vault door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "As you rub the card, its color changes to blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "As you rub the card, its color changes to green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A small rather non-descript grey-stone cavern, this location does\nhave one thing that makes it distinct: an ornate archway leading south. You can see the green crystal grotto to the north.\nThere is a small, fierce guardian creature blocking your way to the south. For some reason, the name 'goblin' pops into your head.\n\nRushing at your feet, the goblin springs up and plants its shoulder into your stomach. You painfully exhale all the air in your lungs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the slip", "response": "This small slip of paper holds some cryptic numbers.\n\nRushing at your feet, the goblin springs up and plants its shoulder into your stomach. As you double over in pain, it brings its knee up to smash you agonizingly in the face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack goblin", "response": "(with the board)\nYou ram the end of the board into the goblin's stomach, knocking it back several feet. It looks hurt, but also more than a little furious.\n\nThe goblin charges you, but you dodge aside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack goblin", "response": "(with the board)\nHolding the board like a baseball bat, you crack the goblin upside the head. A lead key (previously unseen) flies from a chain around the goblin's neck. While the goblin staggers back dazed, you take advantage of the situation and crack it in the head again. This time you hear a sickening snap, and it drops to the ground dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops board", "response": "board: Done.\nlead key: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub card", "response": "As you rub the card, its color changes to grey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the junk", "response": "You collect a handful of the junk, being careful not to touch anything too gross. After gathering a small amount, you decide that nothing else here meets that criteria.\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the junk", "response": "This is some junk from the Living Room. This is the only junk from there that you can bring yourself to touch. John is such a sloth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get them", "response": "clothes: You can't have the clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search them", "response": "clothes: There's nothing else in the clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The bathroom is typical for an apartment like this. The floor is\ntiled and bare. The shower curtain is a striking blend of wild colors. It is just beginning to show the first signs of mold. The landing lies to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flashlight", "response": "The flashlight is on, providing light. The flashlight seems to contain a battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the battery", "response": "It looks like an ordinary battery to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, and a small bag. The flashlight seems to contain a battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bag in the chute", "response": "The small bag drops into the laundry chute, but appears to get stuck maybe half-way down. You have a feeling you will never see it again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the modem in the chute", "response": "The modem drops into the laundry chute, but appears to get stuck maybe half-way down. You have a feeling you will never see it again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the slip in the chute", "response": "The slip of paper drops into the laundry chute, but appears to get stuck maybe half-way down. You have a feeling you will never see it again.\n\nThe thin rod is no longer glowing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put board in the chute", "response": "The board drops into the laundry chute, but appears to get stuck maybe half-way down. You have a feeling you will never see it again.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.\n\nThis is the basement of the apartment. It is unfinished, and there\nis no furniture here. There is a large hole in the west wall, probably large enough for you to fit through, and a set of stairs lead up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pan in the chute", "response": "This is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.\n\nThis is the landing at the top of the steps. A laundry chute is in\nthe wall here. To the north is John's bedroom, while the bathroom lies to the east. The stairs lead down.\n\nThe big pan drops into the laundry chute, but appears to get stuck maybe half-way down. You have a feeling you will never see it again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave wand", "response": "This is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.\n\nThis is the basement of the apartment. It is unfinished, and there\nis no furniture here. There is a large hole in the west wall, probably large enough for you to fit through, and a set of stairs lead up.\n\nAs you wave the thin rod, blue sparkles appear in the air around it. The rod itself is glowing with a soft blue light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.\n\nThis is the Dining Area, inaptly named here since it is never used\nfor that purpose. This room is less cluttered than the living room, but that's not saying much. The kitchen is to the east, while the living room lies to the south.\n\nYou can't go that way.\n\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "the rest of the apartment. This puzzles you for a moment, until you figure out that John probably eats out all the time. A door leads outside to the north, and the dining area is to the west.\nYou see a stove and a refrigerator here.\n\nYou are outside the apartment, on a patio enclosed by fencing. The storm wails around you, driving snow into your face. It is bitterly cold. A fence door leads north out into the apartment complex parking lot, but there is so much snow piled against it that you doubt you could open it. The door back into the apartment is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops fence", "response": "There is way too much snow piled against the door for you to open it.\n\nYou know, it really is quite cold out here. Perhaps you should step back in to the apartment and warm up. You already can't feel your fingers and toes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave wand", "response": "the rest of the apartment. This puzzles you for a moment, until you figure out that John probably eats out all the time. A door leads outside to the north, and the dining area is to the west.\nYou see a stove and a refrigerator here.\n\nAs you wave the thin rod, blue sparkles appear in the air around it. The rod itself is glowing with a soft blue light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stove", "response": "There is a thin layer of dust on the stove; further evidence that this room is not used much. Continued inspection shows that the stove does not even work. You wonder if John is aware of this or if he even cares. There's nothing on the stove.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "The oven door seems to be stuck. It does open just a little bit, and you catch the pleasant odor of cooked fish, possibly herring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the bag", "response": "This small leather bag smells faintly of sulphur. You can sense power emanating from it. In the small bag you see a picture, a modem, a book, a slip of paper, a red gem, a big pan, a handwritten letter, a typed letter, a blue gem, a board, a lead key, and some junk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "This is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.\n\nThis is the landing at the top of the steps. A laundry chute is in\nthe wall here. To the north is John's bedroom, while the bathroom lies to the east. The stairs lead down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the slip in the chute", "response": "The slip of paper drops into the laundry chute, but appears to get stuck maybe half-way down. You have a feeling you will never see it again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the chute", "response": "This is a laundry chute. It most likely travels from here down into the basement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, a small bag, a thin rod, a slip of paper, a blue gem, a lead key, and a red gem. The flashlight seems to contain a battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "As you are moving through the archway, you hear a sound much like that of breaking glass, and you suddenly become very disoriented. When you regain your senses a moment later, you are not where you thought you would be.\n\nYou are in a non-descript 10 x 10 room of tiled stone. It has the appearances of a cell, but has no door. There is an exit to the west.\n\nThere is a loud and horrible rushing noise in your ears, and the room appears to be filling up with what you would describe as steam if it were not so very very cold.\n\nTime passes...\n\nYour flesh feels like leather and your eyes like glass as a huge block of ice forms around you. Mysteriously you are not killed outright by this; instead you fall into a deep sleep. Unfortunately, within a few days without food you expire anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You frantically try to push out of the room, but moving through the doorway is like trying to push through thick molasses.\n\nYour flesh feels like leather and your eyes like glass as a huge block of ice forms around you. Mysteriously you are not killed outright by this; instead you fall into a deep sleep. Unfortunately, within a few days without food you expire anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "As you are moving through the archway, you hear a sound very much like that of breaking glass, but it sounds muffled and far away. You continue through the archway into the room beyond.\n\n[Your score just went up by 2 points.]\nSafe Room\nThe side corridor ends in a compact little room with walls made of a mixture of stone and steel. A dim light illuminates the area, but you can't tell where it's coming from. A key-lock safe is set into the west wall. The exit is through an archway to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine safe", "response": "The safe is set very firmly into the west wall, and has a keyhole in the very center of it. From the looks of it, you can pretty much forget trying to open it if you don't have the key that fits that keyhole.\n\nThe safe is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "You already have the lead key!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock safe with it", "response": "Unlocked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open safe", "response": "Opening the safe reveals a glass bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "The bottle is about the right size to hold 2 liters of liquid. There is no opening to the bottle; it appears to be sealed air-tight. It does look fairly fragile though. In the glass bottle you see a metallic ring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bottle", "response": "There is no opening to the glass bottle. To open it you'll have to break it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ring", "response": "The metallic ring is quite beautifully crafted, but you can't tell what kind of metal it is made out of. It has an empty inset about right for a medium sized gemstone. It is about your size.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break bottle", "response": "With a simple motion, you toss the bottle to the ground. It shatters immediately, freeing the ring. It also seems to have released some sort of noxious green gas which quickly fills the surrounding area. With a burning sensation in your throat and lungs, you expire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bottle in the pit", "response": "The glass bottle drops to the bottom of the pit and shatters. You hear a hissing sound, like gas rapidly expanding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave wand", "response": "As you wave the thin rod, blue sparkles appear in the air around it. The rod itself is glowing with a soft blue light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ring", "response": "The metallic ring is quite beautifully crafted, but you can't tell what kind of metal it is made out of. It has an empty inset about right for a medium sized gemstone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "Okay, you're no longer wearing the metallic ring.\n\nOkay, you're now wearing the metallic ring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ring", "response": "The metallic ring is quite beautifully crafted, but you can't tell what kind of metal it is made out of. There is an inset on it that currently contains a red gem. You notice that it seems to be providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Long Tunnel (2)\nThe long tunnel continues to lead north and south. The same tiling\nis present here as in the rest of the tunnel. A side corridor leads off to the west.\n\nLong Tunnel (1)\nThis is a long tunnel leading north and south. It has definitely\nbeen purposefully made, being tiled with crafted stone. It looks like something that would have been created centuries ago. You can see the Red Crystal Grotto to the north, and a side corridor leads off to the east.\n\nThis room, tiled with the same stone as the long tunnel, smells a\nbit dank. Moisture must get in here somewhere. The room appears to be a cell block, mainly because there are jail cells with entrances on the northern, eastern, and southern walls. The exit is to the west.\n\nThe northern and southern cells are individually filled up by something massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The northern cell is completely filled with ice. You can't enter it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Northern", "response": "What are you going to do? Breathe on it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "I figured as much.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This room, tiled with the same stone as the long tunnel, smells a\nbit dank. Moisture must get in here somewhere. The room appears to be a cell block, mainly because there are jail cells with entrances on the northern, eastern, and southern walls. The exit is to the west.\n\nThe northern and southern cells are individually filled up by something massive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYour flesh feels like leather and your eyes like glass as a huge block of ice forms around you. Mysteriously you are not killed outright by this; instead you fall into a deep sleep. Unfortunately, within a few days without food you expire anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are outside the apartment, on a patio enclosed by fencing. The storm wails around you, driving snow into your face. It is bitterly cold. A fence door leads north out into the apartment complex parking lot, but there is so much snow piled against it that you doubt you could open it. The door back into the apartment is to the south.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "There is way too much snow piled against the door for you to open it.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the snow", "response": "The snow isn't important.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are outside the apartment on Red Robin Road. It is bitterly\ncold, and the storm drives snow into your face. Huge drifts of snow block your way in every direction you look. The door back into the apartment is to the north.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snow", "response": "The huge drifts of snow block your path in every direction.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, a small bag, a thin rod, a slip of paper, a blue gem, a lead key, and a metallic ring (being worn). The flashlight seems to contain a battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This small cavern appears completely natural. The rock is very\nrough, and stalactites hang from the ceiling. To the north there is an exit laced with gleaming blue crystal. To the south, the cavern opens up into a much larger cavern, with a drop-off that leads down farther than you can see. Spanning the vast emptiness of the large cavern is a bridge that appears to be made entirely of ice. A chill comes from that direction.\nA red tinted devil stands casually against the cavern wall here. He looks at you expectantly, to see if you have brought him all of the sins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The devil reaches out and pushes you back by the shoulder. \"I'm not letting you by until you give me the bag with all of the sins in it. Scared to give it a shot?\" he asks with a grin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the devil about the sin", "response": "\"Now then, you're just going to have to figure that out, aren't you?\" the devil says with a self-satisfied smile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the bag", "response": "This small leather bag smells faintly of sulphur. You can sense power emanating from it. In the small bag you see a picture, a modem, a book, a big pan, a handwritten letter, a typed letter, a board, and some junk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give bag to the devil", "response": "The devil takes the bag and shakes it.\n\n\"Hmmm... I'm going to have to look through this bag,\" the devil mumbles. Peering inside at the contents, the devil grins. \"You have sin in this bag, but not everything in it is sin.\" With a wave of his hand you vanish in a puff of flame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bag to the devil", "response": "The devil takes the bag and shakes it.\n\n\"Hmmm... I'm going to have to look through this bag,\" the devil mumbles. Peering inside at the contents, the devil hands the bag back to you. \"Fool! You've only got six sins in this bag. You're missing one! You should have realized that you couldn't outsmart me!\" the devil cries with pride.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the devil in the bag", "response": "Immediately the devil's face turns ashen as he percieves his mistake. He starts to say something, but suddenly turns into smoke which is immediately drawn into the bag. Almost as soon as the bag has closed, it becomes extremely hot, causing you to drop it. A second later it vanishes in a puff of flame, leaving behind a pile of ash.\n\n[Your score just went up by 2 points.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ash", "response": "As you disturb the ash, you uncover a scroll. This small pile of ash is all that is left of the devil and his bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "The old scroll appears to have writing on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "Let there be known seven deadly sins, each one most dangerous because it opens the door into further sin:\n\nEnvy/Jealousy\nGluttony\nGreed/Avarice\nLust\nPride\nSloth", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This small cavern appears completely natural. The rock is very\nrough, and stalactites hang from the ceiling. To the north there is an exit laced with gleaming blue crystal. To the south, the cavern opens up into a much larger cavern, with a drop-off that leads down farther than you can see. Spanning the vast emptiness of the large cavern is a bridge that appears to be made entirely of ice. A chill comes from that direction.\nYou see a pile of ash here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, a thin rod, a slip of paper, a blue gem, a lead key, a metallic ring (being worn), a board, a modem, and a old scroll. The flashlight seems to contain a battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Ice Bridge (1)\nYou are on a narrow bridge made entirely of ice. The footing is\nslick but you have managed to keep your balance so far. You are colder than you can ever remember being; the bridge seems to be drawing your life right out of you. To the north the bridge ends in a small cavern. The bridge continues to the south for as far as your flashlight allows you to see.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Ice Bridge (2)\nYou are on a narrow bridge made entirely of ice. The footing is\nslick but you have managed to keep your balance so far. You are colder than you can ever remember being; the bridge seems to be drawing your life right out of you. The bridge continues both to the north and south for as far as your flashlight allows you to see.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Bridge", "response": "The bridge is made entirely of ice.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Ice Bridge (3)\nYou are on a narrow bridge made entirely of ice. The footing is\nslick but you have managed to keep your balance so far. You are colder than you can ever remember being; the bridge seems to be drawing your life right out of you. The bridge continues to the north for as far as your flashlight allows you to see. To the south, the bridge ends in a small cavern. A dim reddish glow emerges from the cavern.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This small cavern is uncomfortably warm. A bridge of ice spans a drop-off to the north. There is a large exit to the south, but it is completely filled with a roaring wall of fire. The entire room is lit by a bright reddish glow from the flames.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the red gem", "response": "You've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Fire", "response": "You have a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, a thin rod, a slip of paper, a blue gem, a lead key, a metallic ring (being worn), a board, a modem, and a old scroll. The flashlight seems to contain a battery.\n\nThe roaring wall of fire blocks the exit to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop slip", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You have a flashlight (providing light), a crystal card, a thin rod, a metallic ring (being worn), a board, a modem, a old scroll, and a red gem. The flashlight seems to contain a battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are entirely engulfed by flames. You can barely see through\nthem.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of coolness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe ring (being worn) is providing you with a feeling of coolness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This room looks like it belongs in a modern home instead of some underground cavern complex. It is neatly square, about 20 feet wide by 25 feet long, and the walls are paneled with cedar wood. It looks unusual only due to its contents, and that the west wall is a wall of roaring flames. The room is of a comfortable temperature though.\nAn altar is on the northern wall, a desk lies against the eastern\nwall, a table sits against the southern wall, and in the middle of the room sits a large crystal obelisk.\nSitting on the altar is a large black book. Sitting on the wooden table is a black rod. Sitting on the wooden desk is a tarot card and a small bowl.\nA grey old man in dark blue robes is here. The Ice Wizard stops admiring his trophies and turns to face you as you enter. \"This used to be the Fire Witch's trophy room,\" he mumbles. \"Now she's a part of it.\"\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the thin rod appears in his hands. He fingers it lightly and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Ice", "response": "The Ice Wizard is a grey old man with a sinister look about him. A sense of power radiates from him, and he frightens you.\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the ring appears in his hands.\nHe rolls it in his fingers and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Witch", "response": "You can barely make out the Fire Witch inside of the obelisk, but it is obvious that she is very beautiful.\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the crystal card appears in his hands. \"Damned Witch,\" he mumbles. \"How did she get that to the mortal?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the obelisk", "response": "The large obelisk is made out of some type of purple crystal. There seems to be something inside the obelisk, the unmoving form of a beautiful woman in crimson robes.\n\n\"Didn't want you leaving me,\" the Ice Wizard mumbles as he rubs the crystal card and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the black book", "response": "The large black book is open to page 569.\n\n\"Well,\" mumbles the Ice Wizard. \"It appears you don't have anything else that I would be interested in. Except perhaps your freeze-dried body.\" And those are the last words you ever hear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This room looks like it belongs in a modern home instead of some underground cavern complex. It is neatly square, about 20 feet wide by 25 feet long, and the walls are paneled with cedar wood. It looks unusual only due to its contents, and that the west wall is a wall of roaring flames. The room is of a comfortable temperature though.\nAn altar is on the northern wall, a desk lies against the eastern\nwall, a table sits against the southern wall, and in the middle of the room sits a large crystal obelisk.\nSitting on the altar is a large black book. Sitting on the wooden table is a black rod. Sitting on the wooden desk is a tarot card and a small bowl.\nA grey old man in dark blue robes is here. The Ice Wizard stops admiring his trophies and turns to face you as you enter. \"This used to be the Fire Witch's trophy room,\" he mumbles. \"Now she's a part of it.\"\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the thin rod appears in his hands. He fingers it lightly and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the card", "response": "Which card do you mean, the crystal card, or the tarot card?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Crystal", "response": "This card is about the size of a playing card. It is made out of some type of gleaming crystal, and is purple in color.\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the ring appears in his hands.\nHe rolls it in his fingers and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the crystal card appears in his hands. \"Damned Witch,\" he mumbles. \"How did she get that to the mortal?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "GlkTADS - A text-only TADS 2.5.3 Interpreter.\n\nMaintained by Stephen Granade <sgranade@phy.duke.edu>\n\nIt's a cold weekend in December of 1990, and it's been far too long since you have seen your friend John Baker! But you've finally managed to take some time out of your schedule to drive to Columbus and spend some \"quality time\" together. Quality time, of course, means that you and he are going to sample every bar that Ohio State University's High Street has to offer.\n\nJohn was to meet you at a favorite pizza and beer spot to start off the evening, but he hasn't showed up. John's always been rather spontaneous (read that as 'erratic'), so you think he'll show up eventually. But as the night wears on and you tire of downing beers by yourself, you decide to drive to his place and see if he's left a note or something for you there.\n\nYou find his front door unlocked and John nowhere to be found. Pretty tired from your earlier drive, and also buzzing a bit from the beer you drank, you quickly doze off in the living room.\n\nIt is now morning. A terrible snow storm is raging outside, the worst you've ever seen. You can't believe how much snow has piled up over the night. You still haven't heard from John, and you seem to now be trapped in his apartment.\n\nJohn's Fire Witch, Version 1.01 (02/04/95)\n\nThis is John's Living Room. It is in its usual state of disarray, littered with junk (old copies of alternative newspapers, empty beer cans and bottles, dirty plates and glasses, and so on). What a complete sloth! To the north is the dining area. There is a door leading outside to the south. One set of stairs leads down to the basement, while another set leads upstairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This room looks like it belongs in a modern home instead of some underground cavern complex. It is neatly square, about 20 feet wide by 25 feet long, and the walls are paneled with cedar wood. It looks unusual only due to its contents, and that the west wall is a wall of roaring flames. The room is of a comfortable temperature though.\nAn altar is on the northern wall, a desk lies against the eastern\nwall, a table sits against the southern wall, and in the middle of the room sits a large crystal obelisk.\nSitting on the altar is a large black book. Sitting on the wooden table is a black rod. Sitting on the wooden desk is a tarot card and a small bowl.\nA grey old man in dark blue robes is here. The Ice Wizard stops admiring his trophies and turns to face you as you enter. \"This used to be the Fire Witch's trophy room,\" he mumbles. \"Now she's a part of it.\"\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the thin rod appears in his hands. He fingers it lightly and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Crystal", "response": "This card is about the size of a playing card. It is made out of some type of gleaming crystal, and is purple in color.\n\nThe Ice Wizard mumbles something about foolish mortals under his breath, making some sort of gesture with his hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the obelisk", "response": "The large obelisk is made out of some type of purple crystal. There seems to be something inside the obelisk, the unmoving form of a beautiful woman in crimson robes.\n\nThe Ice Wizard mumbles something about foolish mortals under his breath, making some sort of gesture with his hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wizard", "response": "The Ice Wizard is a grey old man with a sinister look about him. A sense of power radiates from him, and he frightens you.\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the ring appears in his hands.\nHe rolls it in his fingers and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This room looks like it belongs in a modern home instead of some underground cavern complex. It is neatly square, about 20 feet wide by 25 feet long, and the walls are paneled with cedar wood. It looks unusual only due to its contents, and that the west wall is a wall of roaring flames. The room is of a comfortable temperature though.\nAn altar is on the northern wall, a desk lies against the eastern\nwall, a table sits against the southern wall, and in the middle of the room sits a large crystal obelisk.\nSitting on the altar is a large black book. Sitting on the wooden table is a black rod. Sitting on the wooden desk is a tarot card and a small bowl.\nA grey old man in dark blue robes is here. The Ice Wizard stops admiring his trophies and turns to face you as you enter. \"This used to be the Fire Witch's trophy room,\" he mumbles. \"Now she's a part of it.\"\n\nThe Ice Wizard mumbles something about foolish mortals under his breath, making some sort of gesture with his hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tarot card", "response": "This particular card is the Grim Reaper. A beautifully realistic picture. Hood, scythe, skeleton, implacable grin: yes, it's the Reaper all right.\n\nThe Ice Wizard mumbles something about foolish mortals under his breath, making some sort of gesture with his hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bowl", "response": "In the small bowl you see a smooth stone.\n\nThe Ice Wizard mumbles something about foolish mortals under his breath, making some sort of gesture with his hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the smooth stone", "response": "It's a smooth, shiny piece of what might be obsidian. Scratched on it is a symbol.\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the thin rod appears in his hands. He fingers it lightly and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the symbol", "response": "The symbol, on close examination, appears to have been carved into the smooth stone, perhaps with a claw. The symbol is like nothing you've ever seen, and yet somehow you know it has meaning.\n\nThe Ice Wizard mumbles something about foolish mortals under his breath, making some sort of gesture with his hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine black rod", "response": "It's a three foot black rod with a rusty star on an end.\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the ring appears in his hands.\nHe rolls it in his fingers and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the altar", "response": "On the altar you see a large black book.\n\nThe Ice Wizard mumbles something about foolish mortals under his breath, making some sort of gesture with his hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the black book", "response": "The large black book is open to page 569.\n\nThe Ice Wizard snaps his fingers, and the crystal card appears in his hands. \"Damned Witch,\" he mumbles. \"How did she get that to the mortal?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the black book", "response": "Oh ye who go about saying unto each: \"Hello sailor\":\nDost thou know the magnitude of thy sin before the gods?\nYea, verily, thou shalt be ground between two stones.\nShall the angry gods cast thy body into the whirlpool?\nSurely, thy eye shall be put out with a sharp stick!\nEven unto the ends of the earth shalt thou wander and\nUnto the land of the dead shalt thou be sent at last.\nSurely thou shalt repent of thy cunning.\n\n\"Didn't want you leaving me,\" the Ice Wizard mumbles as he rubs the crystal card and places it within the folds of his robes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Thanks for playing. Keep Text Adventures Alive!", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Slice of life", "Travel" ]

[ "active npc", "adaptive hints", "animals", "built-in hints", "complex NPC", "conversation", "female protagonist", "IF Competition 1997", "IFComp Game", "memorable NPC", "nature", "sexual content", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 1997", "XYZZY Best Individual NPC" ]

[ 4, 13, 6, 2, 2 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "than an outdoor bath in a 104 degree pool.\nSteam surrounds you in an ethereal massage.\nTufa deposits line the steep walls behind you\nand brilliant green algae decorate the rock where\nthe spring trickles in.\nA few bubbles and a small current\nrise from the depths...\n\nAn Interactive Dip in a Hot Spring\nBrent VanFossen, (C) 1997 - 2008\n\nXYZZY Award winner for best Non-Player Character, 1997\n\n[Press \"s\" to Skip the intro, \"a\" to read About the game,\nor any other key to begin.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "N = next subject P = previous RETURN = read subject Q = resume game\n\nThere is information on the following:\n\n> Instructions for Playing\nFeatures for Experienced Players\nAbout the Author\nBug Reports and Contacting the Author\nCredits\nRevisions\nGame Statistics\nHints", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "N = next subject P = previous RETURN = read subject Q = resume game\n\nThere is information on the following:\n\nInstructions for Playing\nFeatures for Experienced Players\n> About the Author\nBug Reports and Contacting the Author\nCredits\nRevisions\nGame Statistics\nHints", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "N = next subject P = previous RETURN = read subject Q = resume game\n\nThere is information on the following:\n\nInstructions for Playing\nFeatures for Experienced Players\nAbout the Author\n> Bug Reports and Contacting the Author\nCredits\nRevisions\nGame Statistics\nHints", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "N = next subject P = previous RETURN = read subject Q = resume game\n\nThere is information on the following:\n\nInstructions for Playing\nFeatures for Experienced Players\nAbout the Author\nBug Reports and Contacting the Author\n> Credits\nRevisions\nGame Statistics\nHints", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "N = next subject P = previous RETURN = read subject Q = resume game\n\nThere is information on the following:\n\nInstructions for Playing\nFeatures for Experienced Players\nAbout the Author\nBug Reports and Contacting the Author\nCredits\n> Revisions\nGame Statistics\nHints\n\nThis is a list of the changes that have been made to the program since its first appearance in the 1997 IF Competition. I'm sure there are other differences that I've forgotten. Thanks again to all who commented or sent bug reports. I believe I have fixed all the known bugs and implemented almost all of the suggestions. The list serves as a rough chronology of the revision process.\n\nSince it's impossible to list changes to a work without revealing some of the details of that work,\n\n[Press \"Q\" to avoid spoilers]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na note\na guidebook\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of flipflops", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine shorts", "response": "They're orange and comfortable, and reach almost to your knees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flops", "response": "Exceptionally tacky, but the most confining things you can bear to put on your feet are these floppy old sandals.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the shorts", "response": "You remove your shorts.\n\nYou are now wearing a shirt and a pair of flipflops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "\"You,\" he always tells you, \"are my pretty lady.\" You smile at the thought. He's always quick to tell you how he likes that smile, your easy laugh, your blue-green eyes that \"sparkle\" so. It's probably all just a little silly, but you like it nonetheless.\n\nYou are wearing only a pair of flipflops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the guidebook", "response": "A well-worn copy of \"A Field Guide to the Natural History of the Mountainous Regions\". On the cover are drawings of birds, mammals, plants, and trees. Many pages are marked with notes and scribbles, and the text describes the creatures and natural features of the area.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the booby in the guidebook", "response": "Latin name: Sula nebouxii\n\nThe blue-footed booby is a sea bird found in North America along the Gulf of California and off the coast of the Baja Peninsula in Mexico. Adults have bright blue feet, a bluish-gray bill, white breast, and brown wings. They fish in clear, shallow waters close to shore, and work in small flocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the flipflops", "response": "You step out of your flipflops and pick them up.\n\nYou are now completely naked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the flops", "response": "You put on the flipflops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the shirt", "response": "You put on the shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the shorts", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\nYou put on the shorts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the pants", "response": "You're already wearing those!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You stand in the middle of a grove of aspen, which extends in all directions. Slender white trunks reach for the sky with long thin fingers, stroking the clouds that blow in the autumn breeze. Leaves of gold rattle as the winds shift, and here and there one floats to the ground to join others that crackle underfoot when you move. A narrow path disappears east into the trees, and a camping area is visible through a small opening to the west. North is a wide meadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nAh, yes. The campsite. Last night, when the two of you were pitching the tent, it was already dark and the wind had a bite to it that cut to the skin. It made crawling into the sleeping bag that much more pleasant. But now it's weekend! Just you and your husband as he promised over a month ago.\n\nThe tent is right where you left it, of course, on a bed of leaves between a pair of the biggest trees. In the light of day, you can see a meadow to the north. A path leads east.\n\nA large bull elk and his harem sit in the shade in front of the tent.\n\nFrom the north, an eerie bugle rises above the wind and the rattling of the leaves in the surrounding trees. The large bull in front of you lifts his head, as if to listen, but does not move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at leaves", "response": "Aspen leaves litter the ground, scattered in patterns of yellow, orange, and green that blend together like an Escher drawing. Small piles of them have collected against the trunks of the nearby trees.\n\nYou hear it again, a wild bugling to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search tent", "response": "You can't get close enough without disturbing the bull elk.\n\nYou hear it again, a wild bugling to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill the elk", "response": "As you move toward the elk, he looks directly at you, and you reconsider.\n\nYou hear it again, a wild bugling to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bugle yourself", "response": "Off in the distance, you hear a wilder bugle in response.\n\nYou hear it again, a wild bugling to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle elk", "response": "The bull elk turns to look directly at you. He's not sure whether to take that as a challenge or as an offer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.\n\nYou hear it again, a wild bugling to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. Pockets of morning fog squat in the damp and cold, hovering just above the ground and hiding from the sun that melts the hazy edge where they touch.\n\nA young bull elk occupies the middle of the meadow. In a ritual performed for millennia, the beast lifts his head, antlers pointed back and neck stretched tight. A haunting bugle fills the air, first rising in pitch, then dropping quickly. A short series of grunts ends the sequence. As you approach, he pauses long enough to move off to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the north edge of the large and grassy meadow, bordered by aspen. Fireweed grows at the base of the trees, pink blooms withered and gone to seed.\n\nThe elk, sensing your presence, moves off to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the flops", "response": "You step out of your flipflops and pick them up.\n\nYou are now wearing some shorts and a shirt.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "The east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nContinuing his bugling, the young elk walks west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "Off in the distance, you hear a wilder bugle in response.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "You are on an old mountain trail, hewn from the rocks and trees probably 100 years ago. Highbush cranberry grows amongst the aspens, and where the trees part enough to let the sky show, fireweed fills the openings with profusion. The path turns from southwest to north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "The cliff is too steep to climb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair and a galvanized steel bucket.\n\nAn old man stands on the front porch of the cabin, leaning on a broom and watching as you approach. He gives you a curious look, but says nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle man", "response": "Off in the distance, you hear a wilder bugle in response.\n\nThe man looks at you expectantly as he resumes his sweeping. His attitude isn't unfriendly, but rather curious as to who might be coming to visit in such an out-of-the-way place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You greet the man", "response": "\"Good to meet you,\" he says. \"My name's Bob.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the shorts", "response": "\"Don't do that here, young lady. There's a chill in the air and you'll catch cold.\"\n\nBob goes back to his sweeping, intent on finishing the job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bucket", "response": "\"Go ahead and borrow that old bucket, if you think you need it,\" Bob says to you. \"Folks gotta help each other, you know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick bucket", "response": "Bob may be a doctor, but his name isn't Kevorkian.\n\nBob pauses to examine a crack in the flooring of the porch. \"I'll have to fix that,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the highbush cranberry in the book", "response": "Latin name: Viburnum edule\n\nA member of the honeysuckle family, the highbush cranberry grows in the montane and lower subalpine habitats and prefers open areas in damp woods. The bush grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet, and in the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant red. It blooms in clusters of white star-shaped flowers, and the fruits are small red berries with a single flat seed in each.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the shorts", "response": "You remove your shorts.\n\nYou are now wearing only a shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the highbush cranberry", "response": "(first taking the highbush cranberry)\nThe highbush cranberries are not important.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nBob looks up from his sweeping and nods as you approach, giving you a surprised look. \"You ought to get dressed, my dear,\" he says to you in a kindly way. \"There's a chill in the air, and you'll likely catch cold.\"\n\nBob stops to grab a leaf that is stuck in a crack. He throws it aside and continues sweeping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the bucket", "response": "You can't wear that!\n\nBob bends to pick a rock out from between two of the planks. \"Always tracking in rocks,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about Bob", "response": "\"I was a country doctor, an obstetrician,\" he says to you. \"Sally and I couldn't have children, but I made my living from helping other people have theirs. Didn't make much. So many of the people couldn't pay. But those little babies, I think of every one of them as my own. Some of them would come back and I'd deliver their child. Kind of like watching your own grow up. Did that for 32 years. Now I just work my garden. Try not to think too much about the past.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the shorts", "response": "You put on the shorts.\n\nBob moves the broom to sweep the left side of the porch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about Sally", "response": "\"Sally. Now there was a woman. We were highschool sweethearts, married for 43 years. Then, we found out she was sick, and three months later, she was gone. Breast cancer. Died of breast cancer four years ago. I'm a doctor and I should have known.\" He looks at you and shakes a sad head. \"I saw all the signs, and I didn't even recognize them. Guess I just couldn't believe it could happen to us. Of all people, I should have known.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob for mammogram", "response": "Bob just looks at you and shrugs. \"If you see that around, just help yourself,\" he mutters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about spring", "response": "\"That hot spring's back in one of the canyons, not far from here. Make sure you don't miss it. It's quite a treat.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "You take the note from your pocket and read it again:\n\nMy Love:\n\nFor five years now we have shared so many times together and made so many memories. All the places we've gone, the things we've seen, the friends we've met along the way.\n\nThis is a favorite place of mine, I hope it will be for you. And I have a small birthday surprise in store. Meet me this evening in the hot spring. I'll find you there.\n\nBob swats at a mosquito. \"Darned bugs,\" he mutters. \"No way to get away from them.\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the canyon", "response": "\"The canyon is just down the way, made of granite and steep as can be.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Brent", "response": "\"Nice fella, met him this morning.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "You feel an indescribable sense of deja vu, and the world seems to turn inside out.\n\nThis is a long east-west hallway, dark and featureless. Smooth black walls line the way, disappearing into the inky stillness to the west. East, a small rectangle of light hovers in the distance. A hollow voice beckons to you from that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You move west, into the inky blackness, the darkness so thick, you can almost feel it. The air prickles with the energy of the past. When the feeling subsides, you find yourself back where you began...\n\nThe years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nYou can see Bob here, sweeping his porch.\n\nHe sweeps a bit more, all the while looking at you. \"I wonder why they don't seem to bother you. I've got my own private cloud of bugs, and you just sit there pretty as can be.\" He shrugs his shoulders, and swats at another one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Newly dug, this immense auditorium is almost pristine. Hundreds of rows of plush velvet seats surround the main stage in a graceful 'U'. Wide aisles allow easy passage, and converge into a shallow orchestra pit. There is a brightly-lit doorway to the west, over which hangs the helpful sign, \"Exit.\"\n\nOn the stage you can see a podium.\n\nYou seem to have arrived just in time. Eileen Mullin straightens her little black dress and walks over to the podium. Pausing, she clears her throat to get everyone's attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine eileen", "response": "\"Shhhhhh!\" someone says from a seat nearby. \"These are the XYZZY awards!\"\n\n\"Welcome to the second annual XYZZY awards,\" she says. The crowd cheers. Baby cries! Slowly, the noise abates. After the usual preliminaries, she continues. \"I will present the first award, the winner of the Best Use of Medium.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "\"Shhhhhh!\" someone says from a seat nearby. \"These are the XYZZY awards!\"\n\nEileen opens the envelope, and exclaims, \"The Tempest ... Graham Nelson!!!!\" The crowd goes wild. Someone calls for his acceptance speech in iambic pentameter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Soon, Eileen speaks again. \"Here to present the award for best individual PC is the Adventurer! Take it away!\" With a few quick steps to the stage, Nameless Adventurer takes the podium. Away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Returning from backstage, he/she clears his/her throat. Ripping open the envelope, he/she exclaims, \"Tracy Valencia from Interstate Zero!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "The crowd erupts in applause and shouts. Clearly, the audience is pleased. Someone snickers about nudity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "\"Shhhhhh!\" someone says from a seat nearby. \"These are the XYZZY awards!\"\n\nEileen exclaims, \"Here to present the award for Best Individual NPC is last year's winner: the devil from Small World!\" The devil, only a little taller than you, pops out of a volcano and walks to the stage. He's got a wand in one hand and a scrap of parchment in the other. \"Thank you all. No, don't boo, really,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Waving his wand, there is a flash of light and a few red words appear midair. They erupt in a shower of sparks, only to fade a moment later. Before they go, you are able to read \"She's Got a Thing for a Spring --> Bob.\" A loud voice from the back of the room calls out \"Way cool nature photo dude!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Bob walks quickly to the stage, his stride long and sure. A hammer hangs from his belt. A short discussion with the devil ensues, something about signing a contract. Then, with more strength than you would have imagined, Bob wrests the trophy away and returns to his seat. \"She's got a thing for a squid!\" comes from the right side of the auditorium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Nameless Adventurer returns to the stage. \"Here to introduce the award for Best Individual Puzzle is a puzzle you all know and love... Here it is! The west pillar from So Far!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "The west pillar leans and creaks as it makes its way to the stage. Rocking back and forth in excitement, it opens an envelope and pulls out a tax form. Recovering quickly, it opens a different envelope. \"The winner is... Da da da da! The language puzzle in The Edifice!\" A chant of \"LPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLP\" rises from the crowd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pillar", "response": "\"Shhhhhh!\" someone says from a seat nearby. \"These are the XYZZY awards!\"\n\nEileen exclaims, \"And now, presenting the award for Best NPCs, we have last year's winner... Evan, from Kissing the Buddha's Feet!!\" Evan makes his way to the stage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Evan begins by giving an impromptu talk on how to beat the various Comp97 games. His speech lasts exactly one minute, then he says, \"And the winner is...The Frenetic Five vs. Sturm und Drang by Neil deMause!\" From off to your left comes \"Yay for the famous five!\" Then, someone claps twice and Neil begins to beep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Ragged boy smiles pleasantly at everyone, opens an envelope, and pulls out a brush to draw a small picture of an edifice. Thumbs attack Lucian from every direction, all of them up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Eileen exclaims, \"Here to present the award for Best Setting is least, oops, last year's winner... the devil from Small World!\" Once again, the devil makes his evil way to the stage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "The devil takes the nominees list and tries to get everyone to sign it. \"And the winner is, A Bear's Night Out by David Dyte!\" \"Let's hear it for the bear!\" comes from behind you. Someone screams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "\"Shhhhhh!\" someone says from a seat nearby. \"These are the XYZZY awards!\"\n\nEileen exclaims, \"And now to present the award for Best Story, I give you once more... the Nameless Adventurer!!!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Nameless Adventurer walks to the stage and thanks Eileen. \"And the winner is... Babel, by Ian Finley!\" \"Babool! Babelfish! Babel! Babel! Babel!\" come the cries. Someone in front of you emotes. \"Ian Finley, a man whose initials spell IF!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Eileen exclaims, \"And now, presenting the award for Best Writing, we have a rep from last year's winning game... Tato from So Far!!!\" Someone yells, \"Mr. Tato Head!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Tato bows grandly. \"Attend you all! For on this paper scroll, is the winner, Sunset Over Savannah, by Ivan Cockrum!\" \"I-VAN COCK-RUM! (CLAP CLAP CLAPCLAPCLAP),\" the crowd intones in unison.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Eileen says, \"And now, presenting today's final award, we have a rep from last year's winning game... Aessa from So Far!!!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "There is a long pause. Liza clears her throat. Loudly. The crowd is anxious. Nothing happens. Finally, Zarf, looking characteristically smug, says \"Look. I'll do it. She can apologize to me later.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Zarf takes the stage. \"The winner, for Best Game of 1997, is...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Zarf waits until the tension is almost unbearable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "\"Innnnterstate Zeeeeero, by Adam Cadre!!!!!!\" Baby cries! Zarf dances around the stage, albeit for someone else's game. The din increases, \"ADAMADAMADMADMADMADMADMADMA!\" The noise is deafening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "The crowd, rowdy beyond belief, rushes out of the auditorium to the west, carrying the winners as they go. When the clamor dies, you realize you stand alone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the pants", "response": "The ceremony is over. Nothing else seems to matter here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Shuffling past the now empty seats, you make your way to the exit.\n\nThis is a long east-west hallway, dark and featureless. Smooth black walls line the way, disappearing into the inky stillness to the west. East, a small rectangle of light hovers in the distance.\n\nA small scrap of paper lies here, apparently dropped by one of the revellers a few minutes ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "Taken.\nScribbled in someone's half-legible handwriting is the following note:\n\n\"Feb 5, 1998\nIFMud\n\nTranscript (Edit and publish):\n\n...\"\n\nThe rest of the writing is a mad mass of rapidly written descriptions and quotes, apparently of the ceremony you just witnessed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Shuffling past the now empty seats, you make your way to the exit.\n\nThis is a long east-west hallway, dark and featureless. Smooth black walls line the way, disappearing into the inky stillness to the west. East, a small rectangle of light hovers in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "Nothing happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Plugh", "response": "This is a long east-west hallway, dark and featureless. Smooth black walls line the way, disappearing into the inky stillness to the west. East, a small rectangle of light hovers in the distance.\n\nFortunately, you studied well in the old days. Once again, you find yourself in the...\n\nThe years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nYou can see Bob here, sweeping his porch.\n\nHe sweeps a bit more, all the while looking at you. \"I wonder why they don't seem to bother you. I've got my own private cloud of bugs, and you just sit there pretty as can be.\" He shrugs his shoulders, and swats at another one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the chair", "response": "You get onto the oak rocking chair.\n\nOverhead, you can see the early-morning sun as it rises a bit higher.\n\nFinished with his sweeping, Bob takes his broom and disappears into the cabin. \"Be right back,\" he calls through the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rock", "response": "What do you want to rock?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "You sing a few bars of \"I Love to Hate Men.\" Even if you don't really mean it, that song always lifts your spirits.\n\nBob comes out of the cabin and sits down beside the oak rocker. In his hand is a sheet of sandpaper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the canyon", "response": "\"The canyon is just down the way, made of granite and steep as can be.\"\n\nBob sands on the left leg of the chair. Being a rocker, it moves a bit as he moves, and he wedges his foot under the runner to hold it still. He looks up at you with a smile. \"Would you go out to the shed and get me one of the old bricks so I can keep this chair from rocking?\" he asks. \"I sure would appreciate it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sandpaper", "response": "\"This?\" he looks at you. \"It's just a sheet of 100 grit sandpaper.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You count grit", "response": "\"Sounds familiar. Hmmm. Sorry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shed", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nWhat do you want to shed?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the shed", "response": "\"That old shed has all my good stuff in it,\" he smiles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shirt", "response": "Bob takes a quick moment to read your shirt, then smiles. \"I kinda like your attitude, actually,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Flipflops", "response": "\"Those look comfortable.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Homestead (on the oak rocking chair)\nThe years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nYou can see Bob here, sanding a handmade rocking chair.\n\nBob gives the worn chair a thorough look, as if deciding where to start. \"Yep, I love this old chair,\" he says to you. \"Built by my grandpa just before I was born. Gave it to my mother, he did, and she rocked me to sleep many many times.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You'll have to get off the oak rocking chair first.\n\nBob slowly starts with the sandpaper on one of the arms, working carefully to remove the finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the oak rocking chair.\n\nThe years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nYou can see Bob here, sanding a handmade rocking chair.\n\nBob finds an area that seems particularly stubborn, and sands a little harder in that spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The north side of the cabin is plain and unpretentious; not even a window provides a view in. A stone chimney forms most of the wall of the cabin. In the clearing here is a traditional antique outhouse, complete with a crescent moon. A wooden shed sits off to the side and a garden lies west. To the north through the trees, you can see the double tracks of an overgrown roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shed", "response": "The same hands that built the log cabin also made the shed, from the looks of it, but the timbers are of even more uneven cut. Leftovers from the bigger project, probably. The door, if there ever was one, is missing. A large paper wasp nest fills the upper left corner of the door to the shed, active and buzzing with insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter it", "response": "You take a step towards the door of the shed, but the angry buzzing of the wasps inside and around the nest brings back memories of painful stings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search shed", "response": "Through the guarded door of the shed, you can see shelves and other objects, but it's too dark inside to see more details.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the nest", "response": "A large paper wasp nest fills the upper left corner of the door to the shed, active and buzzing with insects.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chimney", "response": "Made of pink granite from the nearby mountain, this stone fireplace is the best-preserved part of the old cabin. Set into its base is a black iron door no more than 10 inches square. The door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nBob looks up from his sanding and nods as you approach.\n\n\"I do really enjoy this kind of work,\" he says to you with a wink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nest", "response": "\"Dippers put their nests in the strangest places.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wasp", "response": "\"Are those wasps back? I'll have to smoke them out again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smoke", "response": "What do you want to smoke?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "\"Make yourself at home,\" Bob calls to you as you step through the door, \"but I sure think it's nicer out here.\"\n\nThe inside of Bob's cabin is spartan but comfortable. A stone fireplace forms the north wall of the single room, and to the side stands a tall cabinet. One corner serves as a kitchen. South, a four-pane window looks out into the forest, the doorway open beside it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cabinet", "response": "Exquisitely handmade of quarter-sawn oak, this cabinet is taller than you. It fills a corner of the cabin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the fireplace", "response": "In the fireplace are a pile of ashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "You open the tall cabinet, revealing an assortment of Bob's things.\n\nBob comes in from outside and goes to the cabinet. \"Need another piece of sandpaper,\" he says as he takes one from the shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get ashes", "response": "You scoop the ashes out of the fireplace and onto the ground, soiling your fingers. In the ashes, you discover a sooty matchbook, which you take.\n\nBob turns to you as he prepares to leave, and gives you an odd look. \"It's nicer outside, my dear.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the things", "response": "There are so many things in the cabinet, you're not sure what to look at first. They belong to Bob, anyway. Don't you think you should leave them alone?\n\n\"Come on out with me, dear. This old chair is special to me,\" he says, as he goes out the door of the cabin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close cabinet", "response": "You close the tall cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the matchbook", "response": "Through the gray smudges you can read a short advertisement for \"Anything You Want!\" at Alice's Restaurant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn cabin", "response": "The log cabin starts to catch fire, then goes out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "The years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nBob looks up from his sanding as you emerge from his cabin.\n\nBob goes to work on the support for the rocker's arm. Sanding all four sides, he moves from top to bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn bob", "response": "He avoids your clumsy attempt, and you can see the sadness in his eyes. \"Please don't do that,\" he smiles. \"If you want to be mean, I'd rather you just went away.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss bob", "response": "He's a little surprised by your forwardness.\n\nThe match burns out and crumbles into ashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "BOB, KISS YOURSELF, YOU FOOL", "response": "Bob just looks at you and rubs his chin. You're not sure he understood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the matchbook", "response": "In the matchbook are two matches.\n\nBob works on the right legs of the chair. \"Sanding's hard work,\" he remarks.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You burn myself", "response": "Self-immolation is for fanatics and crazies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the outhouse", "response": "The odor here is not as bad as you had expected, but you still wouldn't hang around longer than necessary. A single board spans the width of the cubicle, with the requisite hole in the expected place. A half spent roll of toilet paper hangs on a wire to the right of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the paper", "response": "(the scrap of paper)\nYou already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the roll", "response": "You remove the roll from the wire hangar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the board", "response": "The outhouse is made of hand-cut boards of varying widths. Its door hangs crooked on its hinges, with a crescent moon cut into the upper half.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the board", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn roll", "response": "(first lighting a match)\nThe roll of toilet paper catches fire, gray smoke billowing into your face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smoke wasps", "response": "You wave the roll of smoking toilet paper at the wasp's nest, but you can't get close enough. The wind just blows the smoke back in your face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the roll at the nest", "response": "[Previous turn undone.]\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na roll of toilet paper\na matchbook (which is open)\ntwo matches\na scrap of paper\na bucket\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the shed", "response": "(first lighting a match)\nThe roll of toilet paper catches fire, gray smoke billowing into your face.\n\nThe smoke from the burning roll of toilet paper rises, but the gentle breeze blows it away from the nest. The buzzing of the insects is enough to change your mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw it at the nest", "response": "(first lighting a match)\nThe roll of toilet paper catches fire, gray smoke billowing into your face.\n\nYou throw the roll of toilet paper at the nest but miss by a foot. Through the door it goes, landing inside the shed, a quite unwise thing to do. Midair, it bursts into flame, igniting the dry old shed and all its contents. The billowing cloud of gray smoke rises high in an ugly column, and when the fireworks are over, you see a disappointed old man standing some distance behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn shirt", "response": "The shirt starts to catch fire, then goes out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn flipflops", "response": "The flipflops start to catch fire, then go out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search it", "response": "In the matchbook are two matches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat it", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat shed", "response": "(first taking the wooden shed)\nThat's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get nest", "response": "Surely, you're joking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.\n\nOverhead, you can see the mid-morning sun peek from behind the clouds, trying to cut the crisp chill from the autumn air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the bucket at the nest", "response": "You throw the bucket at the nest but miss by a foot. Through the door it goes, landing inside the shed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "An abandoned dirt road ends here, as the trees abruptly close in and block further passage west. The road heads up the mountain to the east, and through the trees to the south, you can see a log cabin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This old gravel road hasn't been used in years. Weeds and small trees grow up through the right of way, and it would be difficult but not impossible to move further west. The way south is relatively clear.\n\nSmall bunches of herbs grow along the side of the roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the herbs", "response": "You pick a few of the tender herbs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the herbs", "response": "(the picked avens)\nYou find nothing of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the herbs", "response": "(the picked avens)\nYou eat the tender and leafy herbs, but they weren't nearly as good as you had hoped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the herbs", "response": "Bunches of herbs grow all along the roadway. Among the many varieties, you note the low matted leaves of yellow mountain avens, with their bushy white seedheads on long stems.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up avens in the guidebook", "response": "Latin name: Dryas drummondii\n\nAlso called yellow dryas, the yellow mountain aven is a small, prostrate plant that often grows in large mats or patches on rocky ground from middle elevations to above timberline. The flowers are yellow, about 1\" wide, with eight to ten short yellow petals and stand 2 to 10 inches high. The leaves are green above and gray or brown below. As the flowers go to seed, they gradually straighten up, with long (2\") white plumes untwisting into a dandelion-like seed head, soft and feathery like down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the herbs", "response": "(the picked avens)\nYou already have those.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "You sing a few bars of \"I Love to Hate Men.\" Even if you don't really mean it, that song always lifts your spirits.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The road turns from south to west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.\n\nFrom off in the distance, you hear a sharp \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "The pika shifts his gaze to look at you, but fears to approach.\n\nA pika appears on one of the boulders in front of you, pauses, and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "Off in the distance, you hear a wilder bugle in response.\n\nAn enormous bull moose breaks through the bushes and stands on the road, twenty paces away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "The moose looks at you and sniffs. He's not sure whether to take that as a challenge or as an offer.\n\nThe moose looks directly at you and drools. You realize he's about ten times as big as you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up moose", "response": "(in the guidebook)\nLatin name: Alces alces\n\nThe moose is the largest member of the deer family, and is common in subalpine meadows and marshes of the northern United States and Canada. So ugly it is almost cute, it has a large muzzle and long legs that aid it in reaching the tender vegetation which grows at the bottom of lakes and ponds or higher on trees than other animals can browse. One of its favorite foods is the branches and twigs of the willow.\n\nIts pelage is dark brown, slightly lighter underneath. When wet, it usually appears black. Males stand six feet high at the shoulder, and weigh up to 1600 pounds. Females are 10 percent smaller. The large palmate antlers grow only on the males and are shed in the early months of each year. They begin growing again immediately, and each year grow larger, so that their size indicates approximate age and maturity. An unusual feature of the male is the bell, a flap of furred skin that hangs from the neck. Its purpose is unknown.\n\nThe moose breaks into a trot, head lowered directly at you, and rapidly closes the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The moose tires of the chase and stops to feed.\n\nThis old gravel road hasn't been used in years. Weeds and small trees grow up through the right of way, and it would be difficult but not impossible to move further west. The way south is relatively clear.\n\nSmall bunches of herbs grow along the side of the roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "You bugle in the direction you last saw the moose, but he refuses to follow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.\n\nThe large bull moose looks up from browsing, sees you and drools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "The moose looks at you and sniffs. He's not sure whether to take that as a challenge or as an offer.\n\nThe moose breaks into a trot, head lowered directly at you, and rapidly closes the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shout ole", "response": "The moose follows you to the edge of the canyon and watches as you scramble down. The trail is steep, and you slide to the bottom.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBeside you stands a small tower supporting one end of a steel cable.\n\nThe end of a spruce branch is just barely visible deep inside the blackberries.\n\n(to yourself)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tower", "response": "An 8 foot tower made of steel angles. An identical tower stands at the far side of the gully, and together, they support a cable between them. A crank with a handle is attached to the base.\n\nA wire cage hangs from the cable at the far tower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine blackberries", "response": "(the ripe blackberry)\nLarge and ripe, this blackberry just begs to be eaten.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the branch", "response": "The stick is so far inside the tangle, you'd cut yourself to pieces trying to reach it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the blackberry", "response": "(the ripe blackberry)\nYou're an old hand at blackberries, having grown up in the Northwest where the bushes grow like weeds. You taught him how to find the good ones before he was even your husband, avoiding the clinging spider webs that would invariably be there if you didn't look. The two of you would walk along the backroads and fill a cup and stain your hands purple. But it always seemed worth the effort, the berries were so sweet. Today, alone, you carefully avoid the thorns and pick the largest berry from the bush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the cable", "response": "You are unable to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the handle", "response": "(the crank)\nYou grab the crank by the handle, its squeaks startlingly loud and annoying. Foot by foot, the trolley makes its way across the river until it stops beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the trolley", "response": "You climb into the trolley which swings and bounces unnervingly.\n\nIt's a tight little cable car, only 18 inches wide and 4 feet front to back. If you were sharing a ride with anyone else, you would surely bump knees, and the bench below you is rotten and soft. Above your head a single steel cable runs fore and aft to the metal pulleys that are your only means of support. The whole assembly rocks side to side with the breeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the crank", "response": "The crank is too far outside the trolley to reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trolley", "response": "It's a tight little cable car, only 18 inches wide and 4 feet front to back. If you were sharing a ride with anyone else, you would surely bump knees, and the bench below you is rotten and soft. Above your head a single steel cable runs fore and aft to the metal pulleys that are your only means of support. The whole assembly rocks side to side with the breeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "You get out of the trolley.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBehind you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.\n\nThe end of a spruce branch is just barely visible deep inside the blackberries.\n\nYou eye the frayed cable that runs just above your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the branch", "response": "It's the burly end of a spruce branch, buried deep inside the blackberries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the berries", "response": "(the ripe blackberry)\nAvoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the berries", "response": "ripe blackberry: Avoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.\nripe blackberry: Avoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the berries", "response": "ripe blackberry: Avoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.\nripe blackberry: Avoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.\nripe blackberry: Avoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.\nripe blackberry: Avoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na roll of toilet paper\na matchbook (which is open)\ntwo matches\na scrap of paper\na bucket\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the berry", "response": "Plump and sweet and ripe to perfection, you've probably never had a berry quite so good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the berry", "response": "Mmm mmm. Just as good as the last one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the berries", "response": "ripe blackberry: Avoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.\nripe blackberry: Avoiding the thorns, you carefully remove a large ripe berry from the bushes.\nripe blackberry: You must have picked the bush clean. The only ones left are too high to reach.\nripe blackberry: You must have picked the bush clean. The only ones left are too high to reach.\nripe blackberry: You must have picked the bush clean. The only ones left are too high to reach.\nripe blackberry: You must have picked the bush clean. The only ones left are too high to reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stick", "response": "The stick is so far inside the tangle, you'd cut yourself to pieces trying to reach it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tangle", "response": "Blackberry bushes grip the edge of the path from the west. Ripe and succulent, the berries are the perfect treat for the weary hiker, but the thorns are vicious and you take care to avoid them.\n\nThe end of a spruce branch is just barely visible deep inside the blackberries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn bush", "response": "The blackberry bushes start to catch fire, then go out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the thorns with the flops", "response": "You hit the bushes, but the walking stick won't come free.\n\nOverhead, you can see the mid-morning sun peek from behind the clouds, trying to cut the crisp chill from the autumn air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The rocks are so sharp, even your leather-skin feet feel the points, and you turn back. You notice, however, a muddy trail to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear flops", "response": "You put on the flipflops.\n\nOverhead, you can see the mid-morning sun peek from behind the clouds, trying to cut the crisp chill from the autumn air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nA narrow winding path moves through the trees, gently climbing from west to east. Branches of blackberries encroach on the trail, their fruit nestled amongst the thorns. A small stream is visible through the trees to the south, and through the bushes, you can barely make out the shape of a small tower to the east.\n\nA spruce branch lies among the blackberries to the side of the path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the branch", "response": "You try to remove the stick from the thorny bush, but the burl on the end is caught. The harder you pull, the more securely it seems to be snagged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.\n\nA spruce branch lies half in the path, half in the tangle of blackberries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stick", "response": "You take the spruce walking stick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the roll on the stick", "response": "You put the roll of toilet paper on the end of the stick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "That would be a long drop down into the canyon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.\n\nThe large bull moose looks up from browsing, sees you and drools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the blackberry to the moose", "response": "The moose doesn't seem interested.\n\nThe moose breaks into a trot, head lowered directly at you, and rapidly closes the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shout ole", "response": "Whom do you want to shout that to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Moose", "response": "There is no reply.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The moose tires of the chase and stops to feed.\n\nFlip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThis old gravel road hasn't been used in years. Weeds and small trees grow up through the right of way, and it would be difficult but not impossible to move further west. The way south is relatively clear.\n\nSmall bunches of herbs grow along the side of the roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nAn abandoned dirt road ends here, as the trees abruptly close in and block further passage west. The road heads up the mountain to the east, and through the trees to the south, you can see a log cabin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe north side of the cabin is plain and unpretentious; not even a window provides a view in. A stone chimney forms most of the wall of the cabin. In the clearing here is a traditional antique outhouse, complete with a crescent moon. A wooden shed sits off to the side and a garden lies west. To the north through the trees, you can see the double tracks of an overgrown roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nBob looks up from his repairing and nods as you approach.\n\nSeeing a damaged nail, Bob pulls it free and replaces it with a new one, setting it with a single blow of the hammer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light roll", "response": "(first lighting a match)\nThe roll of toilet paper catches fire, but the wind carries the smoke away from the wasp's nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smoke wasps", "response": "You smoke the stick with the burning roll of toilet paper under the wasp's nest, and the smoke sends the insects into retreat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the shed", "response": "The inside of the shed is quite dark, and, as you might expect, full of smoke. You certainly wouldn't want to stay for long. There are no windows, and only a small shaft of sunlight penetrates the haze through the doorway. Against the back wall are several crooked shelves and an old ladder. A board from a wooden deck and a mason's brick sit in the corner.\n\nOn the shelves are a glass canning jar and a pair of leather work gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelves", "response": "Although it's not clear in this light how the shelves are fastened to the wall (and you're not sure it really matters), they don't appear strong enough to support anything of weight.\n\nThe match burns out and crumbles into ashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ladder", "response": "It's a six foot wooden step ladder, the kind with the folding shelf near the top rung for a can of paint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "The ladder belongs to Bob, and you decide to leave it alone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the board", "response": "It's a board, looking like a piece of a wooden deck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the board", "response": "You take the board from the corner of the shed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "You pick up the mason's brick, brushing the dirt onto the floor.\n\nThe roll of toilet paper burns out and crumbles into ashes. Wisps of smoke fade and clear.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The inside of the shed is quite dark. You certainly wouldn't want to stay for long. There are no windows, and only a small shaft of sunlight penetrates the haze through the doorway. Against the back wall are several crooked shelves and an old ladder.\n\nOn the shelves are a glass canning jar and a pair of leather work gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jar", "response": "It's a canning jar, the kind your grandmother used for homemade rhubarb jam and peach preserves. It has a screw-on lid, and the word \"Ball\" is molded in script on the side.\n\nThe glass canning jar contains a handful of washers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gloves", "response": "They're a pair of yellow leather work gloves, or at least, they were yellow once. Now they're covered with grass and dirt stains, and many more scuff marks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear them", "response": "You put on the leather work gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "As you step through the doorway, one of the wasps flies close, but your fear of being stung propels you out the door.\n\nThe north side of the cabin is plain and unpretentious; not even a window provides a view in. A stone chimney forms most of the wall of the cabin. In the clearing here is a traditional antique outhouse, complete with a crescent moon. A wooden shed sits off to the side and a garden lies west. To the north through the trees, you can see the double tracks of an overgrown roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nBob looks up from his repairing and nods as you approach.\n\n\"I'll just go around the glass one more time to get all of the old caulking off, and check the space here again,\" he says as he works.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the brick to Bob", "response": "\"I could have used that a little earlier, my dear. Would you please just put that out by the shed?\" he says kindly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You glare at Bob", "response": "\"You would think an old man like me would know something about that, but if I do, I've forgotten.\"\n\nBob works on the boards of the porch, tapping loose nails back into place. Then he spies the hole where one of the boards was removed, and looks up at you with a smile. \"Would you hand me that board?\" he asks you. \"I sure would appreciate it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Bob with the board", "response": "He avoids your clumsy attempt, and you can see the sadness in his eyes. \"Please don't do that,\" he smiles. \"If you want to be mean, I'd rather you just went away.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the board to Bob", "response": "\"Thanks so much, sweetie. An old man needs all the help he can get, even if it's just a little thing,\" he says with a smile. He puts the board into the hole in the porch, and it's a perfect fit. Taking a few nails, he secures it in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the tringa in the guidebook", "response": "Latin name: Tringa flavipes\n\nThe lesser yellowlegs is a medium-sized sandpiper that summers in northwestern Canada and in Alaska. Its throat and breast are streaked with light brown, its belly is white, wings darker brown. Its bright yellow legs are long and stand out. Nesting is on the tundra, or in open woodlands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the trolley", "response": "\"That old trolley has been there for years, and still works just as well as it used to,\" he says. \"Kind of like me,\" he grins. \"Anyway, it's the only way across the canyon.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nYou can see Bob here, repairing his log cabin.\n\nBob lays the putty knife on the porch and picks up the tube of caulking. \"Now, for the finishing touch,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe north side of the cabin is plain and unpretentious; not even a window provides a view in. A stone chimney forms most of the wall of the cabin. In the clearing here is a traditional antique outhouse, complete with a crescent moon. A wooden shed sits off to the side and a garden lies west. To the north through the trees, you can see the double tracks of an overgrown roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nAn abandoned dirt road ends here, as the trees abruptly close in and block further passage west. The road heads up the mountain to the east, and through the trees to the south, you can see a log cabin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThis old gravel road hasn't been used in years. Weeds and small trees grow up through the right of way, and it would be difficult but not impossible to move further west. The way south is relatively clear.\n\nSmall bunches of herbs grow along the side of the roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.\n\nThe large bull moose looks up from browsing, sees you and drools.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The trail is steep, and you slide to the bottom. Those silly flipflops don't help, and you nearly come out of them.\n\nFlip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at trolley", "response": "The trolley is an open cage suspended from a steel cable by a pair of pulleys, one on each end of the car. The cable runs through the car itself, which waits patiently beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cable", "response": "You pull on the cable and the car slowly moves away from the tower and over the edge of the gulch. As the ground drops away, your stomach nearly goes with it, the bouncing and swaying of the trolley exaggerating the feeling of height. Hand over hand you pull, and eventually find yourself at the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the trolley.\n\nThis beautiful spot is a staging area for many ventures into the mountains, as evidenced by the national forest sign before you. A dense thicket of willow surrounds the landing. A wooded trail heads southeast.\n\nBehind you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.\n\nYou can see a national forest trail sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sign", "response": "The sign is brown with cream lettering, and reads:\n\n\"Mirror Lake 16 miles\"\n\nThe trail leaves to the southeast. Below it is another sign with smaller print advising visitors of back-country etiquette, use of campfires in designated locations, warnings about the hazards of feeding wild animals, and the like.\n\nOverhead, you can see the mid-morning sun peek from behind the clouds, trying to cut the crisp chill from the autumn air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Someone wanted to hide this trail, you think as you push the willows out of the way. You would never have seen it from the trailhead if you hadn't expected it to be here.\n\nFlip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nRugged and narrow, the ledge you walk follows the rim of the canyon north and south. Below, you see and hear the roaring stream as it makes its way south and turns a corner. As you move north, the canyon narrows to a fissure, its walls rising to funnel you in.\n\nYou can see a faded wooden sign here, half hidden among the willows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine willow", "response": "Dense shrubs as tall as you are, blocking your vision and making passage difficult. You're not sure, but the branches seem a little worn to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sign", "response": "The sign is weathered wood, its lettering barely legible. It hides among the willows as if tossed aside. It reads:\n\n\"Siverson Hot Springs 1/2 mile\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThe canyon rim trail descends, clinging tightly to the stone wall, then disappears entirely as the rocks converge. You have no choice but to wade, the current swift and powerful. Overhead, a small slice of the sky is visible between the two cliff faces, covered with ferns that thrive in the dark moist environment here. The crevice runs northwest to south.\n\nAs you step into the icy water, your flipflops come loose and disappear downstream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the flops", "response": "You step out of your flipflops and pick them up.\n\nYou are now wearing a pair of leather work gloves, some shorts and a shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThe canyon rim trail descends, clinging tightly to the stone wall, then disappears entirely as the rocks converge. You have no choice but to wade, the current swift and powerful. Overhead, a small slice of the sky is visible between the two cliff faces, covered with ferns that thrive in the dark moist environment here. The crevice runs northwest to south.\n\nA dark gray bird flies to a moss-covered rock, pauses, and disappears under the surface of the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bird", "response": "A medium-sized gray bird, of quite ordinary appearance. And quite extraordinary behavior.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up bird", "response": "(in the guidebook)\nLatin name: Tyrannus tyrannus\n\nThe eastern kingbird is a flycatcher, hunting insects on the wing. It has a large head, whiskers, and a broad-based flat bill. Its head is black, with a gray back and white underparts. They are common in woodland clearings and are often seen near water. They range throughout most of North America north of Mexico.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up dipper", "response": "(in the guidebook)\nLatin name: Cinclus mexicanus\n\nThe American dipper, occasionally called the water ouzel, is common along fast-moving mountain streams. It is a round, gray bird with a short tail and large yellow legs. Its voice is a trill in flight, and sings at rest with cheeps, buzzes, whistles, and warbles.\n\nA distinguishing behavior, making it a most interesting bird to watch, is its ability to walk on the bottom of the fastest-moving stream, apparently unaffected by the current. Then, it will jump out of the water onto a moss-covered boulder, and bob and curtsey in place, with aquatic larvae, snails, or tiny fish in its mouth.\n\nIt has enormous oil glands for waterproofing feathers, flaps to seal its nostrils, and heavy nictitating membranes (transparent extra eyelids) which aid in its regular dives. The dipper breeds in the early spring, building a domed nest of ferns and fine mosses, which it hides in a rock crevice in a streamside cliff. Often, nests will be placed completely out of harm's way under an overhang behind a waterfall. They lay usually 4 to 5 eggs, which hatch in 16 days. Lifespan is 2 to 5 years.\n\nThe dipper jumps into the water with hardly a splash and walks along the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe bird flies quickly downstream, dodging rocks and roots, and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe dipper jumps into the fastest part of the stream, and returns a moment later with a small insect in its bill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nFerns and mosses of luscious green hang from the walls of this cozy grotto into which a misty waterfall plunges some 60 feet. Spray fills the air to mix with the wall of rising steam from the west, almost hiding the thermal waters of the hot spring. A narrow fissure leads through a crack in the rocks to the southeast.\n\nThe dipper flies low to a nearby rock, and curtsies. Then, so fast you almost don't notice, he ducks behind the waterfall and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go behind waterfall", "response": "Bracing yourself against the sting and the cold, you step through the falls. The cold water fills the bucket. It also soaks you and your clothes from head to toe.\n\nBehind the waterfall is a narrow space protected from the splashing by a rock shelf overhead. You've barely enough room to stand, half hunched and awkward. Blocking your view southwest is the waterfall, whose icy needles sting when they strike. To the northwest is a watery tunnel leading into the mountain itself.\n\nAt waist-level is a bird's nest on the cliff face among the mosses and ferns, hidden from all eyes but yours. From what you remember, this looks like a dipper's nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the pants", "response": "You remove your shorts, stepping slowly out of them.\n\nYou are now wearing a pair of leather work gloves and a shirt.\n\nThe dipper jumps into the water with hardly a splash and walks along the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the shirt", "response": "You fumble with your shirt, but the gloves are in the way. After those come off, the shirt is easy. Up and over your head it goes, and drops at your feet.\n\nYou are now completely naked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go behind the waterfall", "response": "Bracing yourself against the sting and the cold, you step through the falls. The cold water fills the bucket. It also soaks you from head to toe.\n\nBehind the waterfall is a narrow space protected from the splashing by a rock shelf overhead. You've barely enough room to stand, half hunched and awkward. Blocking your view southwest is the waterfall, whose icy needles sting when they strike. To the northwest is a watery tunnel leading into the mountain itself.\n\nAt waist-level is a bird's nest on the cliff face among the mosses and ferns, hidden from all eyes but yours. From what you remember, this looks like a dipper's nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nYou are completely naked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the nest", "response": "A small nest, expertly crafted of interwoven mosses and pieces of fern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the nest", "response": "The bird's nest is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the nest", "response": "On second thought, you decide to leave the dipper's nest where you found it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Behind the waterfall is a narrow space protected from the splashing by a rock shelf overhead. You've barely enough room to stand, half hunched and awkward. Blocking your view southwest is the waterfall, whose icy needles sting when they strike. To the northwest is a watery tunnel leading into the mountain itself.\n\nAt waist-level is a bird's nest on the cliff face among the mosses and ferns, hidden from all eyes but yours. From what you remember, this looks like a dipper's nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nYour eyes slowly adjust to the darkness to reveal a tunnel filled with icy water. The walls are cold and wet, and close in as you move deeper, blocking the little light that bounces in from the opening southeast. A cold breeze blows in your face from the west, but you can see nothing in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nYou move farther into the darkness to a cavern of unknown size. An ancient wind from the depths breathes cold in your face, and your eyes strain uselessly to penetrate the dark.\n\nIt is pitch dark in here!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light match", "response": "You strike the match and for a flickering instant, the flame catches. But the cold wind from the depths of the cave is strong, and the match goes out, leaving you again in the dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "No doubt there are crevices and tunnels for exploring, but you're unequipped for spelunking and the hour is getting late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nYou are in a dark tunnel filled with icy water. The walls are cold and wet, and move apart as you head southeast toward the light. The cold wind from the cavern to your west blows against your back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "Bracing yourself against the sting and the cold, you step out through the falls. The cold water fills the bucket. It also soaks you from head to toe.\n\nSplish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nFerns and mosses of luscious green hang from the walls of this cozy grotto into which a misty waterfall plunges some 60 feet. Spray fills the air to mix with the wall of rising steam from the west, almost hiding the thermal waters of the hot spring. A narrow fissure leads through a crack in the rocks to the southeast.\n\nYou can see a shirt, a pair of leather work gloves and some shorts here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You look longingly at the hot spring, but the time feels early and there's still much to do.\n\nThe dipper flies to a mossy rock, then disappears behind the waterfall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "(first taking the leather work gloves)\nYou put on the leather work gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The faint smell of sulphur hangs in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe dipper, so fast you almost don't notice, ducks behind the waterfall and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You gather your clothes as you leave the grotto, and are now wearing some shorts, a shirt and a pair of leather work gloves.\n\nSplish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThe way is narrow here, walls of rising stone to either side, and water pours in behind you. You have no choice but to wade, the current swift and powerful. Overhead, a small slice of the sky is visible between the two cliff faces, covered with ferns that thrive in the dark moist environment here. The crevice runs northwest to south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ferns", "response": "The walls of this canyon are pinkish granite, the geological layers exposed beneath a few clinging ferns.\n\nThe American Dipper emerges from below the surface of the stream and stands, bobbing in place, at its edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ferns", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sky", "response": "Overhead, you can see the bright midday sun, warm and welcome.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rugged and narrow, the ledge you walk follows the rim of the canyon north and south. Below, you see and hear the roaring stream as it makes its way south and turns a corner. As you move south, the willows become more and more dense, the path harder to follow.\n\nYou can see a faded wooden sign here, half hidden among the willows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This beautiful spot is a staging area for many ventures into the mountains, as evidenced by the national forest sign before you. A dense thicket of willow surrounds the landing. A wooded trail heads southeast.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.\n\nYou can see a national forest trail sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You start up the Mirror Lake Trail, a fairly easy grade. It's wide and smooth, and winds pleasantly through the conifers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The trail turns a slight bend, and you lose sight of the trailhead behind you. Somewhere in the distance, a squirrel chatters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Hiking has always been a favorite pastime of yours, and you pride yourself in your excellent physical condition. The pitch of this section increases slightly, but you hardly even notice. Through a break in the trees, you can see the canyon to the west, and beyond the canyon, parts of a boulder field.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Roots. Where did all those roots come from? The going becomes more difficult as you slow to carefully place each step. You begin to wonder if you missed the turn to the hot spring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The grade lessens here, and the trail becomes a bit wider. To the north, you catch a glimpse through the trees of the mountainous landscape. You marvel at the beauty and breathe deeply of the clean crisp air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The sound of water becomes louder now, you suddenly realize. You're not sure when you first heard it. The trail turns a bend, but the general direction is still southeast and up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "There is no mistaking the roar ahead, a waterfall of some size crashing into rocks. The breeze is cooler, and you move forward, eager to see and feel the spray.\n\nOverhead, you can see the bright midday sun, warm and welcome.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Ah, look at the falls. A hundred foot drop, it's amazing. Cool mist surrounds you in waves, and your clothes take on the dampness like a sponge. You think again of the hot spring, and wonder if you will make it back before dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "A small marker appears ahead to the right of the trail, and you take note. It says:\n\n\"Mirror Lake 12 miles\"\n\nYes, you've definitely made a wrong turn somewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "The trail steepens again, and you breathe harder as you move forward, each step an effort.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "Up and up it goes again. Who graded this route? Must have been someone in a hurry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Switchbacks. Never thought you'd be glad to see switchbacks, but after the last bit of up, they're a nice relief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "The lodgepole pine forest you're passing seems to go forever. The trees are a good 75 feet tall with trunks a foot or so in diameter. Cones and needles litter the ground, and the smell is wonderful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You wonder again about the spring. You think he's still waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The trees give way and you walk along an outcropping. The footing is slippery, the small stones loose. The view to the south is spectacular.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "A patch of snow hugs the base of a clump of trees. Come to think of it, you are feeling a bit cold. You did bring a jacket, didn't you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "There is definitely more snow here, even some in the shaded areas of the trail itself. The wind blows briskly, and the little bit of sweat from the exertion of the climb only serves to give you a constant chill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The trail descends into a small valley before continuing its almost unbroken rise. Your legs ache, your head pounds, and you think again of a relaxing bath in a hot spring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You catch a glimpse ahead through the trees of a small lake. Mirror Lake? That would certainly be nice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The trail descends again, the grade steep and perhaps even more difficult going down than ascending. Your knees ache, your head pounds. The altitude is definitely affecting your heart and breathing rates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Just a little farther, you hope. The path turns a corner and you can see it ahead. You hurry onward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You step out of the trees, the water before you crystal clear and perfectly smooth. The mountains surrounding the cirque are snow-capped and majestic, rising from the far shore and reflected on its surface. Clark's Nutcrackers gather in the trees to your left, waiting, watching, hoping for a handout or just plain curious. Lenticular clouds form around the highest peak like smoke rings around the mouth of an entertainer in a Vaudeville act. You sigh, breathe a little easier, and sit to take it all in. Life just doesn't get any better, you think. Until you remember who was waiting at the hot spring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "Step by step, root by root, you retrace your way back to the trailhead. Mirror Lake would be a fun destination, but you have more important things on your mind today.\n\nThis beautiful spot is a staging area for many ventures into the mountains, as evidenced by the national forest sign before you. A dense thicket of willow surrounds the landing. A wooded trail heads southeast.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.\n\nYou can see a national forest trail sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the trolley", "response": "You climb into the trolley which swings and bounces unnervingly.\n\nYou pull on the cable and the car slowly moves away from the tower and over the edge of the gulch. As the ground drops away, your stomach nearly goes with it, the bouncing and swaying of the trolley exaggerating the feeling of height. Hand over hand you pull, and eventually find yourself at the other side.\n\nYou get out of the trolley.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBehind you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.\n\nThe moose breaks into a trot, head lowered directly at you, and rapidly closes the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "The moose looks at you and sniffs. He's not sure whether to take that as a challenge or as an offer.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "The north side of the cabin is plain and unpretentious; not even a window provides a view in. A stone chimney forms most of the wall of the cabin. In the clearing here is a traditional antique outhouse, complete with a crescent moon. A wooden shed sits off to the side and a garden lies west. To the north through the trees, you can see the double tracks of an overgrown roadway.\n\nThe years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nA Northern Flicker is perched high in the branches of a nearby spruce. You can't go that way.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You descend", "response": "You can't go that way.\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "The east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. The afternoon sun shines bright and cheery, illuminating the gold leaves of the aspen that glow with a false warmth.\n\nA bit nervous of humans, the four-point bull moves west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.\n\nA bit nervous of humans, the four-point bull moves northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "You are at the north edge of the large and grassy meadow, bordered by aspen. Fireweed grows at the base of the trees, pink blooms withered and gone to seed.\n\nContinuing his bugling, the young elk walks southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nA bit nervous of humans, the four-point bull moves west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "Off in the distance, you hear a wilder bugle in response.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. The afternoon sun shines bright and cheery, illuminating the gold leaves of the aspen that glow with a false warmth.\n\nContinuing his bugling, the young elk walks west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Remote and secluded, this is the perfect spot for a campsite. The ground is flat and slightly higher in the middle of the opening. A small two-person tent rests comfortably on a bed of leaves between a pair of the biggest trees. You can see a meadow to the north and a path leads east.\n\nA large bull elk and his harem sit in the shade in front of the tent.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "The bull elk turns to look directly at you. He's not sure whether to take that as a challenge or as an offer.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "The bull elk turns to look directly at you. He's not sure whether to take that as a challenge or as an offer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "You make a few animal noises, but the hidden creatures ignore you.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tent", "response": "A two-person tent. This one is well-used, and is white and blue. The top is of a mesh material, allowing movement of air and views of the stars.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the tent", "response": "You start toward the tent, and the bull elk quickly gets to his feet. He emits a deep snort, his breath condensing in the cold air. As you back away, he stops, then slowly settles back onto the leaves.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the elk about the moose", "response": "This provokes no reaction.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves\n\nOverhead, you can see the bright midday sun, warm and welcome.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shake jar", "response": "You give the glass canning jar a good shake, rattling the contents.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cows", "response": "About a dozen cows lie in the shade, chewing grasses and resting.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the elk with the stick", "response": "You poke at the elk with the stick, a dangerous move.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "Off in the distance, you hear a wilder bugle in response.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nThe elk, sensing your presence, moves off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. The afternoon sun shines bright and cheery, illuminating the gold leaves of the aspen that glow with a false warmth.\n\nThe young bull moves away to the west, bugling as he goes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.\n\nA bit nervous of humans, the four-point bull moves northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nThe young bull moves away to the west, bugling as he goes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. The afternoon sun shines bright and cheery, illuminating the gold leaves of the aspen that glow with a false warmth.\n\nThe elk, sensing your presence, moves off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.\n\nThe young bull moves away to the northeast, bugling as he goes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the herbs to the bull", "response": "The big bull elk is unimpressed.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling in the distance to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bugle", "response": "Off in the distance, you hear a wilder bugle in response.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are at the north edge of the large and grassy meadow, bordered by aspen. Fireweed grows at the base of the trees, pink blooms withered and gone to seed.\n\nA bit nervous of humans, the four-point bull moves southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nThe elk, sensing your presence, moves off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. The afternoon sun shines bright and cheery, illuminating the gold leaves of the aspen that glow with a false warmth.\n\nContinuing his bugling, the young elk walks north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. The afternoon sun shines bright and cheery, illuminating the gold leaves of the aspen that glow with a false warmth.\n\nYou can hear an elk bugling to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nThe elk, sensing your presence, moves off to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You are at the north edge of the large and grassy meadow, bordered by aspen. Fireweed grows at the base of the trees, pink blooms withered and gone to seed.\n\nThe elk, sensing your presence, moves off to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "You are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.\n\nThe elk, in a continued effort to avoid you, moves into the trees to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Remote and secluded, this is the perfect spot for a campsite. The ground is flat and slightly higher in the middle of the opening. A small two-person tent rests comfortably on a bed of leaves between a pair of the biggest trees. You can see a meadow to the north and a path leads east.\n\nAs you enter the campsite, you watch in surprise at the scene unfolding before you. The young bull elk approaches the older, larger male. With head lowered, he goads the other to his feet. They meet, antlers locking in a duel of strength. The rattling, clashing sound mixes with guttural grunts and snorts, each twisting the other. Somehow, the younger of the two persists, the older pushing him backward a short distance away from the tent, but unable to rid himself of the challenger. They seem oblivious to your presence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the tent", "response": "As you crawl inside, your mind drifts back to a camping trip the two of you took together a few years ago. It was in the woods above a beach, with the Pacific thundering at the base of the cliff just below you. The wind was cool, not unlike today, and swept in from the water with the smell of salt. This same tent was new then, and you laughed together as you tried to remember how the poles were supposed to fit.\n\nThe tent is only slightly roomier inside than it would appear. Two can sleep comfortably here, side-by-side or like spoons, with only enough space at the foot for essential camping gear. It has a somewhat musty, much-loved scent, a smell it has earned with its years of frequent use.\n\nA blue rubber bag sits at the foot of the tent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bag", "response": "(the rubber bag)\nYou grab the blue bag by the buckle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The musty smell of the tent tells of much love and use, and reminds you of so many of the places you have been.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the bag", "response": "(the rubber bag)\n\nThe rubber bag is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear the bag", "response": "(the rubber bag)\nYou can't wear that!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bag", "response": "(the rubber bag)\nIt's a blue rubber bag, stiff at the mouth, the kind kayakers and water enthusiasts use to keep meals and small equipment dry. At the open end is a plastic buckle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the buckle", "response": "This buckle is at the open end of the rubber bag, and is made of black plastic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The tent is only slightly roomier inside than it would appear. Two can sleep comfortably here, side-by-side or like spoons, with only enough space at the foot for essential camping gear. It has a somewhat musty, much-loved scent, a smell it has earned with its years of frequent use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "Remote and secluded, this is the perfect spot for a campsite. The ground is flat and slightly higher in the middle of the opening. A small two-person tent rests comfortably on a bed of leaves between a pair of the biggest trees. You can see a meadow to the north and a path leads east.\n\nThe large bull elk is engaged in a sparring match, antlers locked with his younger rival. They have moved toward the meadows, and seem oblivious to your presence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are at the north edge of the large and grassy meadow, bordered by aspen. Fireweed grows at the base of the trees, pink blooms withered and gone to seed.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You wander a bit into the forest, but directions are confusing, and you stop for fear of losing your way.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You wander a bit into the forest, but directions are confusing, and you stop for fear of losing your way.\n\nOverhead, you can see the mid-afternoon sun making its way quickly toward an early evening.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You wander a bit into the forest, but directions are confusing, and you stop for fear of losing your way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nYou can see Bob here, his stride long and sure, moving faster than most men half his age.\n\nBob enters the aspen grove, and turns to look in your direction.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the grove", "response": "That's not something you can enter.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow Bob", "response": "Bob moves so fast, you have a hard time keeping up. But you catch sight of him ahead, and do your best to follow.\n\nYou stand in the middle of a grove of aspen, which extends in all directions. Slender white trunks reach for the sky with long thin fingers, stroking the clouds that blow in the autumn breeze. Leaves of gold rattle as the winds shift, and here and there one floats to the ground to join others that crackle underfoot when you move. A narrow path disappears east into the trees, and a camping area is visible through a small opening to the west. North is a wide meadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow Bob", "response": "Bob moves so fast, you have a hard time keeping up. But you catch sight of him ahead, and do your best to follow.\nThe rocks are sharp. Although you have leather soles (but a soft soul), you feel the sharp edges and turn back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the flops", "response": "You put on the flipflops.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow Bob", "response": "You try to follow Bob but you can't see where he went.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nA narrow winding path moves through the trees, gently climbing from west to east. Branches of blackberries encroach on the trail, their fruit nestled amongst the thorns. A small stream is visible through the trees to the south, and through the bushes, you can barely make out the shape of a small tower to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the flops", "response": "You put on the flipflops.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nYou can see Bob here, his stride long and sure, moving faster than most men half his age.\n\nBob enters the aspen grove, and turns to look in your direction.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow Bob", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou stand in the middle of a grove of aspen, which extends in all directions. Slender white trunks reach for the sky with long thin fingers, stroking the clouds that blow in the autumn breeze. Leaves of gold rattle as the winds shift, and here and there one floats to the ground to join others that crackle underfoot when you move. A narrow path disappears east into the trees, and a camping area is visible through a small opening to the west. North is a wide meadow.\n\nYou can see Bob here, his stride long and sure, moving faster than most men half his age.\n\nBob follows the rocky path to the east. \"You're coming, aren't you?\" he calls, not even breathing hard. He walks fast for an old man. Come to think of it, he walks fast for a young man.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow Bob", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nA narrow winding path moves through the trees, gently climbing from west to east. Branches of blackberries encroach on the trail, their fruit nestled amongst the thorns. A small stream is visible through the trees to the south, and through the bushes, you can barely make out the shape of a small tower to the east.\n\nYou can see Bob here, his stride long and sure, moving faster than most men half his age.\n\nBob turns off the path and heads south, not pausing for a second.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nYou are at the north edge of an enticing mountain stream. The sound of the water flowing over rounded stones is enough to bring relaxation to even the weariest of travelers. Good thing, too, as your sore muscles scream from bouncing over too many rough roads. The only obvious trail leaves north.\n\nYou can see Bob here, his stride long and sure, moving faster than most men half his age.\n\nBob walks to the edge of the stream and places his leather portfolio carefully out of reach of the water. \"This is such a beautiful stream,\" he says, his eyes alive. \"I come here often and never get tired of the view.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine portfolio", "response": "A brown case with a leather finish.\n\nBob opens his portfolio and removes an easel, which he sets up beside the stream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the light", "response": "\"Sounds familiar. Hmmm. Sorry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the torch", "response": "\"That's a funny thing to ask an old man about.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the fireflies", "response": "\"You'll find them in the meadow. Easier to find at night, though.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the portfolio", "response": "\"That's where I keep all my painting stuff,\" he says with a grin. \"Joe gave that to me a few years ago, and I use it all the time.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about Joe", "response": "\"Joe's my brother,\" Bob replies. \"He's coming to see me next week.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sky", "response": "Overhead, you can see the mid-afternoon sun making its way quickly toward an early evening.\n\nBob puts a small sheet of watercolor paper with an unfinished painting on the easel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Painting", "response": "\"I love to paint the water,\" he answers. \"And this time of year, the reflections are the best. Rich with color.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine water", "response": "(the stream)\nThe stream babbles and beckons to you, and flows over a small waterfall from the east to disappear west. It's a pleasant sight after the last few weeks, and your eye lingers lazily to take it all in. The arrhythmic gurgles and splashes put you quickly at ease.\n\nBob looks up suddenly, as if an idea has just struck him. \"Do you like to read?\" he asks you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"I thought so!\" he says with an excitement he hasn't shown since you arrived. He goes to his portfolio and removes a well-worn paperback. \"This is a collection of short stories I found, and it's an absolute delight to read. You might take it with you when you visit the hot spring. I love to pass the time there with a good book,\" he says as he hands it to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "You open the collection of short stories, flipping quickly past the contents and the editor's notes. The first story begins:\n\nThe Meteor, the Stone and a Long Glass of Sherbet\n\nAnother day wasted as guest of the Empress, a wretchedly long tour of the breath-taking Boreal Falls, conducted as ever by the Lady Amilia. As if she weren't bad enough, an honour guard of soldiers, their breast-plates red in the setting sun, march ahead of the procession and protect you from seeing anything unrehearsed. It's a dog's life being an Ambassador.\n\nThe story continues, but you close the book until later. A good story is so much better when you can read it straight through. Maybe at the hot spring...\n\nTaking the paints from the portfolio, Bob puts them on the shelf below the painting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Thank Bob", "response": "\"No problem. Don't mention it,\" he says graciously.\n\n\"Look who's coming!\" shouts Bob, pointing toward the sky. A black shape soars overhead, and as you watch, tucks its wings into a pair of somersaulting rolls. Then, as if that were nothing, it lands in the branches of a cottonwood just upstream. \"Rawk!\" croaks the raven, its voice coarse and commanding.\n\n\"I love ravens,\" Bob exclaims. \"There's a lot of lore and legends about them. The Tlingit Indians believed the raven created the world and was the bringer of light, and they wove them into their stories and totem poles and ceremonies. A lot of people think they're ugly, all black and bad luck, but there's a bird that knows how to have fun. I love to watch them fly. And the noises they make.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Raven", "response": "\"Those birds sure know how to have fun,\" he smiles. \"There are prettier ones, but none with the same personality.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the raven", "response": "A large black bird, the raven watches every move you make, every stroke of Bob's brush. Occasionally he emits a deep croak or gurgle.\n\n\"The coloration is so subtle,\" he tells you, \"I could spend forever working on a painting like this.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hi", "response": "The raven is not important.\n\nBob takes a look upstream, at the fast-flowing water and the moss-covered rocks. Then, he dips his brush and makes a few short dabs on the canvas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Caw", "response": "\"That's a funny thing to ask an old man about.\"\n\nA dark gray bird flies to a moss-covered rock, pauses, and disappears under the surface of the water.\n\n\"There's a dipper!\" Bob points. \"He'll be back in just a second. Those birds walk through rapids and don't even get wet. At least, they don't seem to notice.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "You take the note from your pocket and read it again:\n\nMy Love:\n\nFor five years now we have shared so many times together and made so many memories. All the places we've gone, the things we've seen, the friends we've met along the way.\n\nThis is a favorite place of mine, I hope it will be for you. And I have a small birthday surprise in store. Meet me this evening in the hot spring. I'll find you there.\n\nMixing some green with white on his palette, Bob sets to work on the little bit of foliage that hasn't yet turned for fall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter bag", "response": "That's not something you can enter.\n\nBob looks up at the stream, then back at his canvas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the canvas", "response": "A small watercolor painting of a fast-moving stream.\n\nBob works some more with the reds, adding and blending the colors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sky", "response": "Overhead, you can see the mid-afternoon sun making its way quickly toward an early evening.\n\nBob takes a look upstream, at the fast-flowing water and the moss-covered rocks. Then, he dips his brush and makes a few short dabs on the canvas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na paperback\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves\na pair of flipflops\n\nThe dipper jumps into the fastest part of the stream, and returns a moment later with a small insect in its bill.\n\nMixing some green with white on his palette, Bob sets to work on the little bit of foliage that hasn't yet turned for fall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show stick to Bob", "response": "\"That's a nice one you found there. Would make a perfect walking stick.\"\n\nThe American Dipper emerges from below the surface of the stream and stands, bobbing in place, at its edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na paperback\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves\na pair of flipflops\n\nBob looks up at the stream, then back at his canvas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brick", "response": "You see nothing special about the mason's brick.\n\nBob works some more with the yellows, adding and blending the colors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine avens", "response": "Tender branches of mountain avens, a leafy herb. If you were vegetarian, they would probably be great to eat.\n\nBob takes a look upstream, at the fast-flowing water and the moss-covered rocks. Then, he dips his brush and makes a few short dabs on the canvas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the fireflies", "response": "\"You'll find them in the meadow. Easier to find at night, though.\"\n\nThe dipper flies low to a nearby rock, and curtsies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat avens", "response": "You eat the tender and leafy herbs, but they weren't nearly as good as you had hoped.\n\nMixing some white with the blue, Bob shades the shadowy pools that sit protected on the edge of the stream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Time", "response": "By your best guess, it's a little before 4:00 in the afternoon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at avens", "response": "Tender branches of mountain avens, a leafy herb. If you were vegetarian, they would probably be great to eat.\n\nThe dipper jumps into the fastest part of the stream, and returns a moment later with a small insect in its bill.\n\nMixing some green with white on his palette, Bob sets to work on the little bit of foliage that hasn't yet turned for fall.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are at the north edge of an enticing mountain stream. The sound of the water flowing over rounded stones is enough to bring relaxation to even the weariest of travelers. Good thing, too, as your sore muscles scream from bouncing over too many rough roads. The only obvious trail leaves north.\n\nPerched in the branches of a nearby cottonwood is a large black raven.\n\nYou can see Bob here, painting a watercolor of a fast-moving stream.\n\nThe bird flies quickly downstream, dodging rocks and roots, and disappears.\n\nBob looks up at the stream, then back at his canvas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou stand in the middle of a grove of aspen, which extends in all directions. Slender white trunks reach for the sky with long thin fingers, stroking the clouds that blow in the autumn breeze. Leaves of gold rattle as the winds shift, and here and there one floats to the ground to join others that crackle underfoot when you move. A narrow path disappears east into the trees, and a camping area is visible through a small opening to the west. North is a wide meadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. The afternoon sun shines bright and cheery, illuminating the gold leaves of the aspen that glow with a false warmth.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the west edge of a large grassy meadow. Leaves from the surrounding trees litter the ground, piled against the tall white and black boles of the aspens that used to be their owners. To the south is your campsite.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the north edge of the large and grassy meadow, bordered by aspen. Fireweed grows at the base of the trees, pink blooms withered and gone to seed.\n\nYou can hear the sound of clashing antlers in the distance to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are on an old mountain trail, hewn from the rocks and trees probably 100 years ago. Highbush cranberry grows amongst the aspens, and where the trees part enough to let the sky show, fireweed fills the openings with profusion. The path turns from southwest to north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe years have not been kind to this remnant of the past, although the obviously recent repairs hide the worst of the scars. An old-fashioned log cabin occupies an opening in the woods, door swung open onto the wide front porch. The single window looks out onto the clearing, alert and watchful, with a country plaid curtain that flutters in the breeze. A trail leaves to the south and continues around the cabin to the north.\n\nOn the porch is an oak rocking chair.\n\nA Northern Flicker is perched high in the branches of a nearby spruce.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Flicker", "response": "It's a Northern Flicker, \"the red-shafted variety,\" Bob told you. It's perched high in the branches of a nearby spruce.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe north side of the cabin is plain and unpretentious; not even a window provides a view in. A stone chimney forms most of the wall of the cabin. In the clearing here is a traditional antique outhouse, complete with a crescent moon. A wooden shed sits off to the side and a garden lies west. To the north through the trees, you can see the double tracks of an overgrown roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nAn abandoned dirt road ends here, as the trees abruptly close in and block further passage west. The road heads up the mountain to the east, and through the trees to the south, you can see a log cabin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThis old gravel road hasn't been used in years. Weeds and small trees grow up through the right of way, and it would be difficult but not impossible to move further west. The way south is relatively clear.\n\nSmall bunches of herbs grow along the side of the roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.\n\nThe large bull moose looks up from browsing, sees you and drools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the moose", "response": "Antlers are the first thing you notice, large and wide and made of more points than you can count. The long snout angles down, giving you a clear view of the beady brown eyes and the bristling hackles on the back of his neck. He takes a few quick steps in your direction, moving the huge rack side to side.\n\nThe moose breaks into a trot, head lowered directly at you, and rapidly closes the distance.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "The moose follows you to the edge of the canyon and watches as you scramble down. The trail is steep, and you slide to the bottom. Those silly flipflops don't help, and you nearly come out of them.\n\nFlip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The canyon drops off steeply to the east. A gentler descent is to the south.\n\nThe moose breaks into a trot, head lowered directly at you, and rapidly closes the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the herbs to the moose", "response": "The moose doesn't seem interested.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na paperback\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves\na pair of flipflops\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shake jar", "response": "You give the glass canning jar a good shake, rattling the contents.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the water at the moose", "response": "You throw the water in the bucket at the moose.\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the moose", "response": "As you attempt to mount, the moose turns the huge rack of antlers in your direction. Those points are enough to change your mind.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the moose in Guide", "response": "Latin name: Alces alces\n\nThe moose is the largest member of the deer family, and is common in subalpine meadows and marshes of the northern United States and Canada. So ugly it is almost cute, it has a large muzzle and long legs that aid it in reaching the tender vegetation which grows at the bottom of lakes and ponds or higher on trees than other animals can browse. One of its favorite foods is the branches and twigs of the willow.\n\nIts pelage is dark brown, slightly lighter underneath. When wet, it usually appears black. Males stand six feet high at the shoulder, and weigh up to 1600 pounds. Females are 10 percent smaller. The large palmate antlers grow only on the males and are shed in the early months of each year. They begin growing again immediately, and each year grow larger, so that their size indicates approximate age and maturity. An unusual feature of the male is the bell, a flap of furred skin that hangs from the neck. Its purpose is unknown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the trolley", "response": "You climb into the trolley which swings and bounces unnervingly.\n\nYou pull on the cable and the car slowly moves away from the tower and over the edge of the gulch. As the ground drops away, your stomach nearly goes with it, the bouncing and swaying of the trolley exaggerating the feeling of height. Hand over hand you pull, and eventually find yourself at the other side.\n\nYou get out of the trolley.\n\nThis beautiful spot is a staging area for many ventures into the mountains, as evidenced by the national forest sign before you. A dense thicket of willow surrounds the landing. A wooded trail heads southeast.\n\nBehind you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.\n\nYou can see a national forest trail sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the branches", "response": "You already have those.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine willow", "response": "Dense shrubs as tall as you are, blocking your vision and making passage difficult. You're not sure, but the branches seem a little worn to the north.\n\nOverhead, you can see the soft cool light of the rising full moon, illuminated by the last rays of the sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Someone wanted to hide this trail, you think as you push the willows out of the way. You would never have seen it from the trailhead if you hadn't expected it to be here.\n\nFlip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nRugged and narrow, the ledge you walk follows the rim of the canyon north and south. Below, you see and hear the roaring stream as it makes its way south and turns a corner. As you move north, the canyon narrows to a fissure, its walls rising to funnel you in.\n\nYou can see a faded wooden sign here, half hidden among the willows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThis beautiful spot is a staging area for many ventures into the mountains, as evidenced by the national forest sign before you. A dense thicket of willow surrounds the landing. A wooded trail heads southeast.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.\n\nYou can see a national forest trail sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the willow", "response": "Cutting that up would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shake willow", "response": "You give the willow a good shake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the willow", "response": "(first taking the willow)\nThat's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up willow in Guide", "response": "(genus Salix)\n\nWillow is a generic name given to an entire family of shrubs that grow in dense clumps near water. They produce catkins, or pussy-willows, in the spring, and cottony seeds later in the year. They have elongated blue-green leaves, many species have hairy twigs. They are a favorite food for the browsing moose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Someone wanted to hide this trail, you think as you push the willows out of the way. You would never have seen it from the trailhead if you hadn't expected it to be here.\n\nFlip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nRugged and narrow, the ledge you walk follows the rim of the canyon north and south. Below, you see and hear the roaring stream as it makes its way south and turns a corner. As you move north, the canyon narrows to a fissure, its walls rising to funnel you in.\n\nYou can see a faded wooden sign here, half hidden among the willows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThe canyon rim trail descends, clinging tightly to the stone wall, then disappears entirely as the rocks converge. You have no choice but to wade, the current swift and powerful. Overhead, a small slice of the sky is visible between the two cliff faces, covered with ferns that thrive in the dark moist environment here. The crevice runs northwest to south.\n\nAs you step into the icy water, your flipflops come loose and disappear downstream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove flipflops", "response": "You step out of your flipflops and pick them up.\n\nYou are now wearing some shorts, a shirt and a pair of leather work gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThe canyon rim trail descends, clinging tightly to the stone wall, then disappears entirely as the rocks converge. You have no choice but to wade, the current swift and powerful. Overhead, a small slice of the sky is visible between the two cliff faces, covered with ferns that thrive in the dark moist environment here. The crevice runs northwest to south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nFerns and mosses of luscious green hang from the walls of this cozy grotto into which a misty waterfall plunges some 60 feet. Spray fills the air to mix with the wall of rising steam from the west, almost hiding the thermal waters of the hot spring. A narrow fissure leads through a crack in the rocks to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You look longingly at the hot spring, but you wish for the soothing fragrance of eucalyptus, your favorite scent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You consult Guide about eucalyptus", "response": "Latin name: Eucalyptus globulus\n\nThere is no official entry in the guidebook for eucalyptus, as it is endemic only to Australia and Tasmania. You don't need a listing for this herb, however, because its pleasant medicinal odor is one of your favorite smells.\n\nThe dipper jumps into the fastest part of the stream, and returns a moment later with a small insect in its bill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe dipper flies low to a nearby rock, and curtsies. Then, so fast you almost don't notice, he ducks behind the waterfall and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the branches", "response": "Tender branches of mountain avens, a leafy herb. If you were vegetarian, they would probably be great to eat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Someone wanted to hide this trail, you think as you push the willows out of the way. You would never have seen it from the trailhead if you hadn't expected it to be here.\n\nRugged and narrow, the ledge you walk follows the rim of the canyon north and south. Below, you see and hear the roaring stream as it makes its way south and turns a corner. As you move north, the canyon narrows to a fissure, its walls rising to funnel you in.\n\nYou can see a faded wooden sign here, half hidden among the willows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThe canyon rim trail descends, clinging tightly to the stone wall, then disappears entirely as the rocks converge. You have no choice but to wade, the current swift and powerful. Overhead, a small slice of the sky is visible between the two cliff faces, covered with ferns that thrive in the dark moist environment here. The crevice runs northwest to south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nFerns and mosses of luscious green hang from the walls of this cozy grotto into which a misty waterfall plunges some 60 feet. Spray fills the air to mix with the wall of rising steam from the west, almost hiding the thermal waters of the hot spring. A narrow fissure leads through a crack in the rocks to the southeast.\n\nThe dipper jumps into the water with hardly a splash and walks along the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe dipper, so fast you almost don't notice, ducks behind the waterfall and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the waterfall", "response": "Bracing yourself against the sting and the cold, you step through the falls. The cold water fills the rubber bag and the bucket. It also soaks you and your clothes from head to toe.\n\nBehind the waterfall is a narrow space protected from the splashing by a rock shelf overhead. You've barely enough room to stand, half hunched and awkward. Blocking your view southwest is the waterfall, whose icy needles sting when they strike. To the northwest is a watery tunnel leading into the mountain itself.\n\nAt waist-level is a bird's nest on the cliff face among the mosses and ferns, hidden from all eyes but yours. From what you remember, this looks like a dipper's nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na paperback\na rubber bag (which is open and full of water)\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine paperback", "response": "It's a collection of short stories of various genres. There's a tale of a bored diplomat who uses underground means to accomplish his political goals, a haunting story of a man who relives painful moments from his past, a sci-fi thriller about a virtual reality simulation gone bad, a miniature world in need of a good turn, and 23 others. It should make excellent reading.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "You open the collection of short stories, flipping quickly past the contents and the editor's notes. The first story begins:\n\nThe Meteor, the Stone and a Long Glass of Sherbet\n\nAnother day wasted as guest of the Empress, a wretchedly long tour of the breath-taking Boreal Falls, conducted as ever by the Lady Amilia. As if she weren't bad enough, an honour guard of soldiers, their breast-plates red in the setting sun, march ahead of the procession and protect you from seeing anything unrehearsed. It's a dog's life being an Ambassador.\n\nThe story continues, but you close the book until later. A good story is so much better when you can read it straight through. Maybe at the hot spring...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You make it part way up the canyon wall, but lose your grip and slide back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na paperback\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bag", "response": "It's a blue rubber bag, stiff at the mouth, the kind kayakers and water enthusiasts use to keep meals and small equipment dry. At the open end is a plastic buckle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe east end of the meadow is rocky, and you make your way carefully when you move. Further east, a granite cliff blocks your way. The remnants of an old mountain trail lead northeast.\n\nFlickering green lights illuminate the north end of the meadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are in the middle of a large grassy meadow, bordered by aspens and a few white spruce in all directions. The chill of the coming winter hangs in the moonlit air like a cat waiting to pounce.\n\nFlickering green lights illuminate the north end of the meadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou stand in the middle of a grove of aspen, which extends in all directions. Slender trunks reach for the sky, silhouetted in the moonlight against the scattered clouds that blow in the evening breeze. Leaves rattle as the winds shift, and here and there one floats to the ground to join others that crackle underfoot when you move. A narrow path disappears east into the trees, and a camping area is visible through a small opening to the west. North is a wide meadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Time", "response": "It's a little hard to guess the time, as the sun has set. It's getting quite late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the north edge of the large and grassy meadow, bordered by aspen. Fireweed grows at the base of the trees, pink blooms withered and gone to seed.\n\nHundreds of fireflies fill the air, each a momentary pinpoint of light that moves and flashes in its own rhythm. They surround you, silently sending signals to others of their kind, a cold green glow that lights up the corners of the meadow. To the east, the full moon sits above the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at fireflies", "response": "Hundreds of fireflies fill the air, each a momentary pinpoint of light that moves and flashes in its own rhythm. They surround you, silently sending signals to others of their kind, a cold green glow that lights up the corners of the meadow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the jar", "response": "You start to give the lid a simple twist when you realize it is rusted on tight. Using all your strength, you try again with no better result.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break jar", "response": "The glass jar shatters into hundreds of tiny fragments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na paperback\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na handful of washers\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves\na pair of flipflops", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jar", "response": "It's a canning jar, the kind your grandmother used for homemade rhubarb jam and peach preserves. It has a screw-on lid, and the word \"Ball\" is molded in script on the side.\n\nThe glass canning jar contains a handful of washers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bag", "response": "It's a blue rubber bag, stiff at the mouth, the kind kayakers and water enthusiasts use to keep meals and small equipment dry. At the open end is a plastic buckle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bag on the jar", "response": "That's too big to fit in the glass canning jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the buckle", "response": "This buckle is at the open end of the rubber bag, and is made of black plastic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear bag", "response": "You can't wear that!\n\nOverhead, you can see the soft cool light of the full moon.\n\nThe fireflies blink, their green light illuminating the air around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "You wander a bit into the forest, but directions are confusing, and you stop for fear of losing your way.\n\nYou're already wearing those!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nThe inside of Bob's cabin is spartan but comfortable, lit by a single kerosene lamp and a fire that burns in the stone fireplace that forms the north wall of the cabin. The open door and one window look out onto the moonlit property of the homestead.\n\nYou can see Bob here, engrossed in a hardback book.\n\nYou can also see a pile of ashes here.\n\nYou watch him reading, the kerosene lamp burning brightly above his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lamp", "response": "(the kerosene lamp)\nThe kerosene lamp belongs to Bob, and you decide to leave it alone.\n\nBob sits quietly engrossed in a hardcover novel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give you the the lamp", "response": "(the kerosene lamp)\nBob just looks at you and shrugs. \"If you see that around, just help yourself,\" he mutters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lamp", "response": "(the kerosene lamp)\nThe kerosene lamp belongs to Bob, and you decide to leave it alone.\n\nBob shifts in his chair, finding a more comfortable position, but doesn't even look up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jar to Bob", "response": "He gives the lid a twist with such force that you're sure the jar will break. Suddenly, it comes off. \"That's a tough one. Must have rusted shut,\" he remarks. Then he puts more than a dozen holes in the lid of the jar and hands them back to you. \"There you go. That should do it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about the eucalyptus", "response": "\"My wife used to love the smell of eucalyptus more than anything else on the planet. She'd put those leaves everywhere, and the whole house would smell like medicine.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Bob about leaves", "response": "\"Leaves on all of the trees and all over the ground.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the fireflies", "response": "You wait for just the right moment, when one of the insects is illuminated and near enough to reach. It's a matter of waiting for the blink, then taking a few steps closer, then waiting again. One at a time, you capture about a dozen of the luminous creatures.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close jar", "response": "You screw the lid onto the jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fireflies", "response": "They might be better dipped in chocolate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the fireflies in the jar", "response": "The glass canning jar is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the fireflies in the jar", "response": "You open the glass canning jar.\nYou put the fireflies into the glass canning jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "Fireflies fill your glass jar, their eerie green light blinking and illuminating everything around you.\n\nIn addition to the fireflies, the jar contains a handful of washers.\n\nYou are carrying:\na paperback\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\nsome picked avens\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\nsome shorts\na shirt\na pair of leather work gloves\na pair of flipflops", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Flip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.\n\nThe moose breaks into a trot, head lowered directly at you, and rapidly closes the distance.\nThe moose follows you to the edge of the canyon and watches as you scramble down. The trail is steep, and you slide to the bottom. Those silly flipflops don't help, and you nearly come out of them.\n\nFlip flop. Flip flop. Flip flop.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThe canyon rim trail descends, clinging tightly to the stone wall, then disappears entirely as the rocks converge. You have no choice but to wade, the current swift and powerful. Overhead, a small slice of the sky is visible between the two cliff faces, covered with ferns that thrive in the dark moist environment here. The crevice runs northwest to south.\n\nAs you step into the icy water, your flipflops come loose and disappear downstream.\n\nThe American Dipper emerges from below the surface of the stream and stands, bobbing in place, at its edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the jar in the bag", "response": "You put the glass canning jar into the rubber bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shirt in bag", "response": "(first taking it off)\n\nYou fumble with your shirt, but the gloves are in the way. After those come off, the shirt is easy. Up and over your head it goes.\n\nYou are now wearing only some shorts.\nYou put the shirt into the rubber bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shorts in the bag", "response": "(first taking them off)\n\nYou remove your shorts.\n\nYou are now completely naked.\nYou put the shorts into the rubber bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gloves", "response": "You already have those.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look in the bag", "response": "The rubber bag contains some shorts and a shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shorts and the shirt", "response": "shorts: Taken.\nshirt: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the jar and the book in the bg", "response": "Which do you mean, the paperback or the guidebook?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the jar and the paperback book in bag", "response": "glass canning jar: Done.\npaperback: Done.\n\nOverhead, you can see the soft cool light of the full moon.\n\nThe fireflies in your glass canning jar blink, their green light illuminating the air around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close bag", "response": "You close the waterproof bag, folding and buckling the top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nFerns and mosses of luscious green hang from the walls of this cozy grotto into which a misty waterfall plunges some 60 feet. Spray fills the air to mix with the wall of rising steam from the west, almost hiding the thermal waters of the hot spring. A narrow fissure leads through a crack in the rocks to the southeast.\n\nThe dipper jumps into the fastest part of the stream, and returns a moment later with a small insect in its bill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the gloves and the shirt and the shorts", "response": "leather work gloves: Dropped.\nshirt: Dropped.\nshorts: Dropped.\n\nThe American Dipper emerges from below the surface of the stream and stands, bobbing in place, at its edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go behind the waterfall", "response": "Bracing yourself against the sting and the cold, you step through the falls. The cold water fills the bucket. It also soaks you from head to toe.\n\nBehind the waterfall is a narrow space protected from the splashing by a rock shelf overhead. You've barely enough room to stand, half hunched and awkward. Blocking your view southwest is the waterfall, whose icy needles sting when they strike. To the northwest is a watery tunnel leading into the mountain itself.\n\nAt waist-level is a bird's nest on the cliff face among the mosses and ferns, hidden from all eyes but yours. From what you remember, this looks like a dipper's nest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "You open the rubber bag.\nThe rubber bag contains a paperback and a glass canning jar, inside which are some fireflies and a handful of washers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nYour eyes slowly adjust to the darkness to reveal a tunnel filled with icy water. The walls are cold and wet, and close in as you move deeper, blocking the little light that bounces in from the opening southeast. A cold breeze blows in your face from the west, but you can see nothing in that direction.\n\nAs you move into the darkness, an eerie green glow emanates from your glass canning jar. The fireflies inside blink their cold light, each at its own timing, and the flickering casts shadows on the wall of the tunnel you travel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nStrange shapes surround you, shadows moving quickly along the walls. The effect is amplified by the uneven and blinking green light from the fireflies in your glass canning jar. Stalactites hang and stalagmites climb, occasionally making thin columns that join the floor to the ceiling. A small pool of dark water collects drops from above, echoing in the eerie quiet. Your eyes survey the room, but the only way out is east.\n\nA banquet of your favorite hors d'oeuvres has been set out in a large wicker basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine basket", "response": "It's a large wicker basket with a handle on either side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "The basket is not important.\n\nThe constant icy draft gives you a penetrating chill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the basket", "response": "Papaya and pineapple and starfruit and plums. There are wheat crackers with Cheddar, Swiss, and Queso Manchego cheeses. There is a bowl of hummus and another of tzatziki. A bottle of Piesporter Goldtropchen sits to the side, chilling in the icy pool.\n\nThe basket is not important.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the hors", "response": "(first taking the banquet)\nOne item at a time, you collect the foods.\n\nThe sounds of your footsteps as you shuffle about echo against the walls of the cavern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the starfruit", "response": "You sample the meal, but as good as it is, you'd rather save it for the hot spring.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Strange shapes surround you, shadows moving quickly along the walls. The effect is amplified by the uneven and blinking green light from the fireflies in your glass canning jar. Stalactites hang and stalagmites climb, occasionally making thin columns that join the floor to the ceiling. A small pool of dark water collects drops from above, echoing in the eerie quiet. Your eyes survey the room, but the only way out is east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nYou are in a dark tunnel filled with icy water. The walls are cold and wet, and move apart as you head southeast toward the light. The cold wind from the cavern to your west blows against your back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all from the bag", "response": "Removed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put hors in the bag", "response": "You carefully place all the food into the blue rubber bag. It's a snug fit, but the bag should still close.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close bag", "response": "You close the waterproof bag, folding and buckling the top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Bracing yourself against the sting and the cold, you step out through the falls. The cold water fills the bucket. It also soaks you from head to toe.\n\nSplish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nFerns and mosses of luscious green hang from the walls of this cozy grotto into which a misty waterfall plunges some 60 feet. Spray fills the air to mix with the wall of rising steam from the west, almost hiding the thermal waters of the hot spring. A narrow fissure leads through a crack in the rocks to the southeast.\n\nYou can see some shorts, a shirt and a pair of leather work gloves here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You look longingly at the hot spring, but you wish for the soothing fragrance of eucalyptus, your favorite scent.\n\nThe dipper, so fast you almost don't notice, ducks behind the waterfall and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe American Dipper emerges from below the surface of the stream and stands, bobbing in place, at its edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You gather your clothes as you leave the grotto, and are now wearing some shorts and a shirt.\n\nSplish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThe way is narrow here, walls of rising stone to either side, and water pours in behind you. You have no choice but to wade, the current swift and powerful. Overhead, a small slice of the sky is visible between the two cliff faces, covered with ferns that thrive in the dark moist environment here. The crevice runs northwest to south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The willows are stronger than your will in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the trolley", "response": "You climb into the trolley which swings and bounces unnervingly.\n\n(First putting on the leather work gloves)\nYou pull on the cable and the car slowly moves away from the tower and over the edge of the gulch. As the ground drops away, your stomach nearly goes with it, the bouncing and swaying of the trolley exaggerating the feeling of height. Hand over hand you pull, and eventually find yourself at the other side.\n\nYou get out of the trolley.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBehind you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "That would be a long drop down into the canyon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "Opening the bag reveals the meal that you so carefully protected. What a classy bather you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the food", "response": "One item at a time, you collect the foods.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide", "response": "What do you want to hide in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide in the bag", "response": "That's not something you can enter.\n\nThe bull moose, sensing your indecision, moves quickly, lifts you with an antler, and tosses you easily onto the sharpest boulder in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide behind the boulder", "response": "You scramble in amongst the pink boulders, almost losing an ankle in one of the many holes. The rocks are cold and uncomfortable, and the one directly below you shifts with an unsettling clunk as you adjust your weight.\n\nWith a snort and a shake of his big head, the bull moose turns and disappears down the road. You notice your hands are trembling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You scramble out of your hastily chosen refuge in the rocks.\n\nThe pika runs down the right path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vegetation", "response": "Weeds and trees grow where vehicles once traveled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "The pika shifts his gaze to look at you, but fears to approach.\n\nThe pika returns along the center path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine leaves", "response": "The leaves the pika carried were small and round and quite unlike any you have noticed in the area.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the rocks", "response": "The pika has hidden them and you can't see where.\n\nThe pika runs down the left path and disappears into the vegetation.\n\nYou search through the rocks, but can't find where the pika goes.\n\nOverhead, you can see the soft cool light of the full moon.\n\nThe fireflies in your glass canning jar blink, their green light illuminating the air around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "The pika shifts his gaze to look at you, but fears to approach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "The pika shifts his gaze to look at you, but fears to approach.\n\nThe pika returns along the right path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the leaves", "response": "The pika has hidden them and you can't see where.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the herbs to the pika", "response": "The pika looks at the picked avens but fears to approach you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the herbs", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search pile", "response": "You search through the rocks, but can't find where the pika goes.\n\nThe pika returns along the left path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the aven to the pika", "response": "The pika looks at the picked avens but fears to approach you.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "The pika shifts his gaze to look at you, but fears to approach.\n\nThe pika runs down the right path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide behind the boulder", "response": "You scramble in amongst the pink boulders, almost losing an ankle in one of the many holes. The rocks are cold and uncomfortable, and the one directly below you shifts with an unsettling clunk as you adjust your weight.\n\nThe pika runs down the left path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe pika returns along the right path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up owl", "response": "(in the guidebook)\nLatin name: Strix nebulosa\n\nThe great gray owl is the largest North American owl with a length of 27 inches. It has heavily ringed facial discs and yellow eyes. The great gray lacks the ear tufts that some other owls, including the great horned, have. It inhabits dense coniferous forests, wooded bogs, boreal forests, and meadows of northern and western Canada, with a narrow extension of its range down into California and Montana. It is chiefly nocturnal, but will hunt by day during the summer in the northern part of its range.\n\nThe pika runs down the right path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up kingbird", "response": "(in the guidebook)\nLatin name: Tyrannus tyrannus\n\nThe eastern kingbird is a flycatcher, hunting insects on the wing. It has a large head, whiskers, and a broad-based flat bill. Its head is black, with a gray back and white underparts. They are common in woodland clearings and are often seen near water. They range throughout most of North America north of Mexico.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the boulder", "response": "But you're already in the boulders.\n\nThe pika returns along the center path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the path", "response": "Which do you mean, the left path, the center path or the right path?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Center", "response": "Only a few inches wide, tiny feet have worn this pathway that winds through the rocks and vegetation. Sometimes disappearing completely, it reappears again farther on.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow the pika", "response": "You can see the pika right here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pink boulder", "response": "You need to be holding the picked avens before you can put them on top of something else.\n\nThe pika runs down the center path and disappears into the vegetation.\n\nThe boulders are half as large as you and made of a pink granite that is covered with lichens of various colors. Meager handholds and small crevices barely large enough for fingers mar the surfaces of the larger rocks. Nearly hidden amongst the stones are several tiny pathways.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get aven", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe pika returns along the left path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the aven on the center", "response": "You put the picked avens on the center path.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe pika starts down the center path, grabs the herbs crosswise in his teeth, and returns to hide them in the rock pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pika", "response": "I don't suppose the pika would care for that.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first scrambling out of the pile of rocks)\n\nThis old gravel road hasn't been used in years. Weeds and small trees grow up through the right of way, and it would be difficult but not impossible to move further west. The way south is relatively clear.\n\nSmall bunches of herbs grow along the side of the roadway.\n\nAn abandoned dirt road ends here, as the trees abruptly close in and block further passage west. The road heads up the mountain to the east, and through the trees to the south, you can see a log cabin.\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This old gravel road hasn't been used in years. Weeds and small trees grow up through the right of way, and it would be difficult but not impossible to move further west. The way south is relatively clear.\n\nSmall bunches of herbs grow along the side of the roadway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You pick a few of the tender herbs.\n\nYou are at the edge of a large field of pink granite boulders. Lichens in various colors pattern the rocks. A narrow gravel road, overgrown with weeds, leads off into the distance to the north. You could also scramble down into the canyon where a fast-moving stream rumbles and flows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the herbs on the center", "response": "You put the picked avens on the center path.\n\nThe pika starts down the center path, grabs the herbs crosswise in his teeth, and returns to hide them in the rock pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe pika runs down the left path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the herbs on the left path", "response": "You put the picked avens on the left path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe pika returns along the right path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search pile", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"\n\nYou search through the rocks, but can't find where the pika goes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put avens on the boulder", "response": "You put the picked avens on one of the nearby boulders.\n\nThe pika moves quickly along the tops of the boulders, grabs the herbs crosswise in his mouth, and returns to hide them in the rock pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome picked avens\na banquet\na paperback\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\na mason's brick\na spruce walking stick\neight ripe blackberries\na matchbook (which is open)\na match\na scrap of paper\na bucket (which is full of water)\na note\na guidebook\na pair of flipflops\n\nIn addition, you are wearing:\na pair of leather work gloves\nsome shorts\na shirt\n\nThe pika runs down the right path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine left", "response": "Only a few inches wide, tiny feet have worn this pathway that winds through the rocks and vegetation. Sometimes disappearing completely, it reappears again farther on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search it", "response": "There is nothing on the right path.\n\nThe pika returns along the center path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You burn pika", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "You scramble in amongst the pink boulders, almost losing an ankle in one of the many holes. The rocks are cold and uncomfortable, and the one directly below you shifts with an unsettling clunk as you adjust your weight.\n\nThe pika shifts his gaze to look at you, but fears to approach.\n\nThe pika runs down the left path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shift boulder", "response": "You are unable to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move it", "response": "You are unable to.\n\nThe pika returns along the right path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at boulder", "response": "The boulders are half as large as you and made of a pink granite that is covered with lichens of various colors. Meager handholds and small crevices barely large enough for fingers mar the surfaces of the larger rocks. Nearly hidden amongst the stones are several tiny pathways.\n\nThe pika runs down the center path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the vegetation", "response": "Weeds and trees grow where vehicles once traveled.\n\nOverhead, you can see the soft cool light of the full moon.\n\nThe fireflies in your glass canning jar blink, their green light illuminating the air around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Neep", "response": "The pika shifts his gaze to look at you, but fears to approach.\n\nThe pika returns along the left path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the berry in the center path", "response": "That can't contain things.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the aven in the bucket", "response": "Some of the water in the bucket spills out to make room for the picked avens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the bucket", "response": "You drop the bucket at your feet.\n\nThe pika runs down the right path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe pika returns along the center path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the berry on the center path", "response": "You put the ripe blackberry on the center path.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe pika runs down the right path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the herbs", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe pika returns along the center path carrying a bunch of mountain avens and a few unusual leaves crosswise in his mouth, which he quickly hides in the boulder pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine center path", "response": "Only a few inches wide, tiny feet have worn this pathway that winds through the rocks and vegetation. Sometimes disappearing completely, it reappears again farther on. On the center path is a ripe blackberry.\n\nThe pika dashes to the top of a nearby pink boulder, pauses, and lets out a loud \"neep!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe pika runs down the right path and disappears into the vegetation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the herbs on center path", "response": "You put the picked avens on the center path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe pika returns along the center path, his mouth stuffed to overflowing with vegetation. Seeing the tender herbs, he stops to pick them up, dropping something behind in the center path as he goes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the leaves", "response": "You gather the four small leaves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell leaves", "response": "The leaves smell wonderfully like eucalyptus, slightly medicinal and quite soothing. They would be perfect in a bath.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "(first scrambling out of the pile of rocks)\nThe trail is steep, and you slide to the bottom.\n\nYou're on a shelf overlooking a small canyon, apparently carved by the nearby stream and 20 or 30 feet deep. A rocky path enters from the west beside a tangle of blackberries, and dead ends at a ledge overlooking the stream below. Above you, granite walls continue to rise, the pink stones a beautiful contrast to the clear blue sky. An animal trail leads up, too steep to walk, but you might be able to make it in a scramble.\n\nBeside you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the trolley", "response": "You climb into the trolley which swings and bounces unnervingly.\n\nYou pull on the cable and the car slowly moves away from the tower and over the edge of the gulch. As the ground drops away, your stomach nearly goes with it, the bouncing and swaying of the trolley exaggerating the feeling of height. Hand over hand you pull, and eventually find yourself at the other side.\n\nYou get out of the trolley.\n\nThis beautiful spot is a staging area for many ventures into the mountains, as evidenced by the national forest sign before you. A dense thicket of willow surrounds the landing. A wooded trail heads southeast.\n\nBehind you, a trolley sits suspended from a steel cable.\n\nYou can see a national forest trail sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Someone wanted to hide this trail, you think as you push the willows out of the way. You would never have seen it from the trailhead if you hadn't expected it to be here.\n\nRugged and narrow, the ledge you walk follows the rim of the canyon north and south. Below, you see and hear the roaring stream as it makes its way south and turns a corner. As you move north, the canyon narrows to a fissure, its walls rising to funnel you in.\n\nYou can see a faded wooden sign here, half hidden among the willows.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You seem a bit overdressed for a dip in a hot spring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the clothes", "response": "flipflops: Dropped.\n\nThe dipper jumps into the water with hardly a splash and walks along the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the shorts", "response": "You remove your shorts, stepping slowly out of them.\n\nYou are now wearing a pair of leather work gloves and a shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the shirt", "response": "You fumble with your shirt, but the gloves are in the way. After those come off, the shirt is easy. Up and over your head it goes, and drops at your feet.\n\nYou are now completely naked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "(first taking the leather work gloves)\nYou put on the leather work gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear flops", "response": "(first taking the flipflops)\nYou put on the flipflops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the flops", "response": "You step out of your flipflops.\n\nYou are now wearing only a pair of leather work gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the gloves", "response": "(first taking the leather work gloves off)\nYou take off the leather work gloves.\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThere is nothing on this planet more pleasant than an outdoor bath in a 104 degree pool. Steam surrounds you in an ethereal massage. Tufa deposits line the steep walls behind you and brilliant green algae decorate the rock where the spring trickles in. A few bubbles and a small current rise from the depths, massaging your tired body in all the right places.\n\nYou soak for a few minutes, and wish for the soothing fragrance of eucalyptus, your favorite scent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the leaves in the pool", "response": "The leaves wilt and disappear, leaving the aroma of eucalyptus to hover in the air. It's relaxing and wonderful.\n\nYou lean back to relax and close your eyes. The water is just perfect. The smell is heavenly and eucalyptus always was your favorite. The bubbles play over your body, and the food! What a banquet.\n\nYou open your eyes with a start. Through the steam you see motion, a shape coming closer. The vapor still obscures his features, but the movements are as familiar to you as your own.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Splish splash. Splish splash. Splish splash.\n\nThere is nothing on this planet more pleasant than an outdoor bath in a 104 degree pool. Steam surrounds you in an ethereal massage. Tufa deposits line the steep walls behind you and brilliant green algae decorate the rock where the spring trickles in. A few bubbles and a small current rise from the depths, massaging your tired body in all the right places.\n\nThe bird flies quickly downstream, dodging rocks and roots, and disappears.\n\nYou soak for a few minutes, and wish for the soothing fragrance of eucalyptus, your favorite scent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the food", "response": "What a pleasure! Hors d'oeuvres and wine in a real hot spring! And there's so much left.\n\n\"Hey, hon. Glad to see you found it. Sorry I couldn't be here sooner,\" he says, as he steps near the pool. \"You're more beautiful every time I look at you. I always seem to forget.\" His smile widens.\n\nAnd then, so slowly at first that you aren't even sure when you notice, you become aware of the sounds around you. The bubbling of the hot spring. The relentlessly happy sounds of a robin in the distance. The soothing murmur of the stream as it flows over the worn stones that line its bed. \"I love the noises here, the music of the wilderness,\" he comments, as if reading your thoughts. \"And this little spring is completely private, I've taken care of that.\" With a wink, he steps toward you.\n\nIn anticipation, you wait, the memories coming back in a flood. The trips together, weekend after weekend. The good friends and all the happy times. Slowly, deliberately, he starts to undress. And as many times as you've seen this, you can't help but watch. Each garment comes off to drop at his side, his clothes on yours. The last one removed, he smiles and steps into the pool.\n\nYour mind swirls like the water around you. He snuggles up close and takes your hand. All the tension goes, all the stress and frustrations leave. Gently, slowly, he takes you completely in his arms and pulls you near, your head to his chest, your body against his.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou soak for a few minutes, and wish for the soothing fragrance of eucalyptus, your favorite scent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "You open the collection of short stories, flipping quickly past the contents and the editor's notes. The first story begins:\n\nThe Meteor, the Stone and a Long Glass of Sherbet\n\nAnother day wasted as guest of the Empress, a wretchedly long tour of the breath-taking Boreal Falls, conducted as ever by the Lady Amilia. As if she weren't bad enough, an honour guard of soldiers, their breast-plates red in the setting sun, march ahead of the procession and protect you from seeing anything unrehearsed. It's a dog's life being an Ambassador.\n\nThe story continues, and you turn the page. There's nothing like a good book at a hot spring.\n\nYou soak for a few minutes, and wish for the soothing fragrance of eucalyptus, your favorite scent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "You feel an indescribable sense of deja vu, and the world seems to turn inside out.\n\nThis is a long east-west hallway, dark and featureless. Smooth black walls line the way, disappearing into the inky stillness to the west. East, a small rectangle of light hovers in the distance.\n\nHere in the darkness, an eerie green glow emanates from your glass canning jar. The fireflies inside blink their cold light, each at its own timing, and strangely, there are no shadows at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na banquet\na paperback\na glass canning jar (which is closed)\na rubber bag (which is open but empty)\n\nYou are completely naked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You move west, into the inky blackness, the darkness so thick, you can almost feel it. The air prickles with the energy of the past. When the feeling subsides, you find yourself back where you began...\n\nThere is nothing on this planet more pleasant than an outdoor bath in a 104 degree pool. Steam surrounds you in an ethereal massage. Tufa deposits line the steep walls behind you and brilliant green algae decorate the rock where the spring trickles in. A few bubbles and a small current rise from the depths, massaging your tired body in all the right places.\n\nThe aroma of eucalyptus hovers in the air.\n\nYou can see your husband here.\n\n\"Hey, hon. Glad to see you found it. Sorry I couldn't be here sooner,\" he says, as he steps near the pool. \"You're more beautiful every time I look at you. I always seem to forget.\" His smile widens.\n\nAnd then, so slowly at first that you aren't even sure when you notice, you become aware of the sounds around you. The bubbling of the hot spring. The relentlessly happy sounds of a robin in the distance. The soothing murmur of the stream as it flows over the worn stones that line its bed. \"I love the noises here, the music of the wilderness,\" he comments, as if reading your thoughts. \"And this little spring is completely private, I've taken care of that.\" With a wink, he steps toward you.\n\nIn anticipation, you wait, the memories coming back in a flood. The trips together, weekend after weekend. The good friends and all the happy times. Slowly, deliberately, he starts to undress. And as many times as you've seen this, you can't help but watch. Each garment comes off to drop at his side, his clothes on yours. The last one removed, he smiles and steps into the pool.\n\nYour mind swirls like the water around you. He snuggles up close and takes your hand. All the tension goes, all the stress and frustrations leave. Gently, slowly, he takes you completely in his arms and pulls you near, your head to his chest, your body against his.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "biblical", "Christianity", "Historical", "IF Comp 2011", "IFComp Game", "inform", "Inform 7", "Published 2011", "religion", "religious", "Xyzzy Awards 2011" ]

[ 0, 13, 3, 1, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Are you sure you want to quit? \n\n\n\nThis account of the wedding at Cana, by the servant Micah, was considered apocryphal as early as the third century; it was therefore excluded from consideration at the Synod of Hippo in AD 393. Various surviving texts, notably the writings of Julius of Damascus and of Nestor of Nice, suggest that the account was a late fiction based on the relevant verses in the Gospel of John, intended perhaps as instruction to the faithful.\n\nOf particular interest is the fact that the account was written in the second person, and in liturgical Hebrew instead of the more common Greek or Aramaic of the time. This latter point implies that \"Micah\" is not a lowly servant as described in the story, but a mouthpiece, a fictional character through which the actual author -- a much more learned person who might or might not be named Micah -- might speak; whereas the former point supports the hypothesis of Nestor of Nice that the author's primary intention was to engage the reader in the action of an already-existing story, rather than to present an actual eyewitness account.\n\nBe that as it may, it is hoped that this translation will prove to be as edifying to the modern scholar as its original author, whoever that might be, had intended.\n\n- Rev. Dr. Stephen Dawson\nBarchester, AD 1893\n\n\"There's no more wine.\"\n\nYou straighten up and turn to look at Amos, the head steward. Outside the kitchen, the wedding party continues in full swing. Inside, you look at Amos and Amos looks back at you and the disaster looms over both of you. No more wine! What would the master say! For that matter, what would a courtyard full of friends and relatives from all over Judaea say!\n\nMartha (technically one of the guests, but she insisted, as usual, on helping out in the kitchen) interrupts your growing horror to point out that one of the wine jugs is missing. \"You should try to find it. If we're lucky, there'll be enough wine in it to buy us a little more time.\"\n\n\"A little more time? Time for what?\"\n\n\"Time to get to the market and back, of course. It's late, but hopefully there'll be one wine merchant still hanging about. Amos, get a donkey and a small cart, and be quick about it.\" Amos scurries off to do as he's told, and Martha turns to you: \"And Micah, you see if you can find that missing jug!\"\n\nMartha hurries off after Amos, through the back garden, avoiding the other guests and leaving you with your half of the mission. Where on earth could that missing wine jug be? As you consider the possible hiding places, you notice a flash of red hair disappearing out the doorway into the courtyard. Just your luck: it's the little orphan brat that Martha and her brother and sister adopted, the one who's been getting underfoot all evening and who's probably heard everything. Hopefully she'll have enough sense to not tell the whole world that you're out of wine. Hah, you should be so lucky.\n\n(Readers unfamiliar with the conventions of Interactive Fiction should type \"HELP\" for further information.)\n\nTranslated from the Hebrew by Rev. Dr. Stephen Dawson\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nExcept for you and Amos, because you're both ever so reliable, all the other servants have been given leave to go get some rest after the preparations earlier; no-one was expecting a sudden emergency to crop up before it came time to wash the dishes.\n\nAll the actual food has been served, except for a plate of honeyed locusts that sits untemptingly nearby, unsurprisingly untouched.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You take the plate", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "Your name is Micah, and you are a servant in the household of the family of Clopas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na plate of honeyed locusts", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\n\"Hey, mister!\" Little Anna trots up to you. \"Is it true that there's no more wine? I saw Martha and Amos get into the cart with the donkey and they rode off in such a hurry. Martha said you were going to find a missing jug of wine and maybe that would help. Can I help? Just say the word, sir!\"\n\nHeaven help us.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say yes", "response": "(to Little Orphan Anna)\nLittle Anna has entirely too much to say about that, none of it even remotely useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about the wine", "response": "\"I think I saw John, the Rabbi's son, sneaking away from the courtyard with a jug of wine earlier, before the feast actually started.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about John", "response": "\"I think John is Lazarus's brother, but not a close brother. I mean his parents are totally different people. I wish there were a word for brothers and sisters who aren't actually your brothers and sisters, don't you? Anyway, Mary likes to listen to him, and Lazarus likes to argue with him, but Martha says he ought to clean himself up and marry a nice, respectable girl and settle down. She says he lives out in the wilderness and eats honey and locusts every day, which can't be healthy, but I guess he must like it or he wouldn't do it. Or maybe he's so busy talking he forgets to eat -- his father's the same way.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...had this dream about the butcher's late wife, so they called off the wedding....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about Lazarus", "response": "\"Martha worries about him because he's not very strong, but he's very smart. Everybody says he's going to be High Priest some day, if he lives long enough. They don't say that last part to his face, of course, and both Martha and Mary get very upset when they hear it.\nThey say it's bad luck, but Lazarus says that if his time comes early, then that's just the way it is.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThis rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThis is about as far from the maddening crowd as you can get, without actually leaving the house. The fig trees provide shade in the daytime, and the air is pleasantly cool; this time of the evening, though, it's rather darker and more shadowy than you care for. The garden itself is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the figs", "response": "You pick a fig and eat it. Yum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fig trees", "response": "The fig trees have been planted a little too close together here.\nTheir branches spread and interlace overhead, drenching the space between them in shadows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "As you turn to leave, you hear what sounds like a lion's roar, followed by a slight rustle of leaves. It takes you a few moments to recognise the roar as merely the rumble of an empty stomach. Be that as it may, there's clearly someone hiding here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the trees", "response": "You poke about the trees, searching for the intruder, but he's too stealthy for you. Anyway, do you really want to meet up with this person, alone (small orphan girls don't count) out here in the dark?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the plate", "response": "You carefully set down the plate of ... food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide", "response": "As you walk away from the plate of honeyed locusts, you hear some distinctly interested rustling in the bushes nearby. You quickly duck behind one of the fig trees and wait. A minute later, the rather unkempt form of John -- the Rabbi's son, no less -- slinks out of the shadows and descends upon the honeyed locusts. (Better him than you, mate.) More interesting is the fact that he's washing down the \"food\" with deep quaffs from the missing wine jug.\n\n\"Hullo, John,\" you say, stepping out of the shadows.\n\nJohn only sighs and wipes his mouth on his sleeve. \"Why don't you leave me alone.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about the jug", "response": "\"Mine. Hands off.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the wine", "response": "John clutches the jug closer to himself and snarls, \"hands off! Mine!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about Lazarus", "response": "\"Such a good boy, that Lazarus,\" says John, a little bitterly. \"Well, we all have our roles to play, and he'll play his soon enough. Far be it for me to envy him his lot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about Mary", "response": "Who do you mean, the bride, Mary of Bethany or Mary of Nazareth?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bride", "response": "John frowns. \"She seems nice enough, but I seem to recall some rather odd business involving a candle and a mirror, and....\" John stops suddenly and shakes his head. \"No, wait, that's a different Mary.\nYour new mistress is a fine and honourable woman, and your master is fortunate indeed to have her.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take plate", "response": "That seems to belong to John.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about the locusts", "response": "\"What? I happen to like honeyed locusts. Don't knock 'em till you've tried 'em.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about the Father", "response": "\"Father wanted me to make an appearance. That's the only reason I'm here at all.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John for the wine", "response": "John has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about Martha", "response": "\"That woman wants to be everyone's mother. I swear, she could subdue a dragon with her fussing.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThis rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at alcove", "response": "In the alcove are some jars and a bucket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jars", "response": "There are six large jars in the alcove, placed there so the guests may wash the dust from their feet after the long journey to get here. All that splashing about has left each of them about half-full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bucket", "response": "This is the bucket used to carry water from the village well to the house. It's larger than average, but at least that means not having to make quite so many trips back and forth when filling up all those jars in the entryway. Currently, the bucket is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bucket", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna, a bridesmaid and an ancient mariner here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bridesmaid", "response": "You recognise her as one of the bridesmaids who'd been arranged for the wedding. She wasn't actually at the wedding, though: Clopas was running a little late, and a bunch of the bridesmaids, including this one, had to run off to the market to replenish the oil in their lamps when he finally arrived. These bridesmaids missed the wedding altogether as a result, and you thought they'd all gone home. Apparently one of them, at least, is still hanging around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about the oil", "response": "Unfortunately, the ancient mariner appears to have the bridesmaid's whole and unwilling attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mariner", "response": "This is a pitiful old beggar who's been hanging around town lately. He's a former sailor, apparently, and they say he's possessed, but it's just as likely that he's spent a little too much time in the sun with his head uncovered. Either way, you know better than to sit down and let him tell you any of his interminable seafaring stories.\n\n\"There passed a weary time ... a weary time! a weary time!\" the old sailor mumbles.\n\n\"I can well imagine,\" mutters the bridesmaid, with a glazed and weary eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello sailor", "response": "\"Shalom.\"\n\n\"...and all that time, it hung there, a reminder of my sin, and I would have given a whole herd of goats as a sin offering if I could....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the mariner about the albatross", "response": "What, and get him to talk to you? You've seen this man pin down stronger men than yourself, for hours on end, with the simple introduction \"There was a ship...\" and you really don't have the hours to listen to it all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nYou are standing beside the village well, a large stone structure with a heavy wooden cover to keep people and wandering animals from falling in. Off to the west is the road to town, and beyond that is the house and the wedding. Fields stretch out in all other directions.\n\nA few soldiers are hanging about nearby, looking grumpy.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\n\"Hey, you there!\" says one of the soldiers, approaching you. \"You're from the house of Clopas, aren't you? Do us a favour. There's this man we're supposed to arrest, one John son of Zechariah. And we know he's at this wedding, but see, we have no idea what he looks like.\"\n\n\"Crazy wild man living in the wilderness, dressed in animal skins,\" says another, \"great description if he were doing his thing over on the Jordan, but here's this wedding and he's probably all cleaned up for it. Probably looks like decent folk. So if you know the guy and could point him out to us, we'd be much obliged.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "One of the soldiers, apparently the leader of the group, grins at you. \"Good boy, I knew we could count on you. Here, we'll need a signal. When you see this John son of Zechariah character, you let us know it's him by, uh, kissing him. How's that?\"\n\n\"Why can't he just point at the guy?\"\n\n\"Shut up. Weddings are crowded things and we want absolutely no mistakes, got it? So no pointing from a distance or any of that sort of rubbish. And this way, our new friend here can say that he never actually told us who our man was. It's genius.\"\n\nLittle Anna tugs on your sleeve and whispers, \"are you sure this is a good idea, sir?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about the soldiers", "response": "\"Nobody seems to like Herod's soldiers, which I think is a little sad. I mean, they're just doing their job, right? Mary says that doing their job is one thing, but a lot of them could be a little nicer about it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou heave the wooden cover aside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine well", "response": "(the village well)\nThe village well is a large, low stone ring with a rough wooden cover. During the day, it's a gathering space for local servants, women, shepherds, and pretty much the whole town.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "Oh no, you hauled enough water from the well earlier today, filling up those jars for washing feet. You're not doing this again unless you absolutely have to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou carefully reposition the cover over the well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe soldiers creep along behind you with rather more stealth and subtlety than you'd have expected.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nA few soldiers are hanging about nearby, looking stealthy.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, a bridesmaid and an ancient mariner here.\n\nThe bridesmaid glances hopefully at the soldiers following you -- and you know she must be pretty desperate if she's expecting help from Herod's guards -- but they pretend not to notice. One of them peers suspiciously at the old mariner and nudges you with his elbow, brow raised.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss sailor", "response": "You approach the ancient mariner and cough discreetly. He glances at you and blinks. \"There was--\" he begins, but you quickly step back and jerk your head in the direction of the soldiers standing just behind you. Their eyes meet.\n\n\"There was a ship,\" says the ancient mariner, with a sudden rush of unholy enthusiasm.\n\n\"Oh no,\" whispers one of the soldiers as the first one stops in his tracks and, clearly against his will, tries to sit down. The whole group of soldiers try to drag themselves away, as the old mariner hobbles along after them, claiming one after another one of them for his captive audience.\n\nIn all the confusion, the bridesmaid manages to get away and slip inside the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and a bridesmaid here.\n\n\"Thank you,\" says the bridesmaid, \"I didn't think the old man would ever stop talking, and somehow I just couldn't stop listening to him. It's not that his story was all that long and terrible; it's actually not bad, once you've put the pieces together. But he would insist on jumping around at random, and repeating some bits over and over.\" She sighs and turns to enter the courtyard. \"Well, ask me about the story sometime, if you want to know what it was all about, and I'll tell it to you so that it makes sense. For now, I'm just going to go and enjoy what's left of the party.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about oil", "response": "\"Oh, don't remind me. You have no idea how mortifying it all was, being turned away from the door like that!\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...honour one's father and mother. Say what you like, he's always done his duty by her....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the guests", "response": "Friends and family from all over Judaea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThis is where the family keeps the wine and the olive oil. It is a cool, windowless room; the kitchen proper is up some steps to the east.\n\nA rickety set of shelves stands against one wall.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nAnna takes a step back and points up to the top of the shelves. \"Look, there's a jug up there! Maybe there's some wine in it!\" You tell her not to be silly, you know for a fact.... but Anna's already begun clambering up the front of the shelves. As might be expected, the shelves creak alarmingly and begin to sway forward as Anna reaches the top....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Anna", "response": "You snatch Little Anna away from the toppling shelves, and not a moment too soon. The shelves and their precious contents smash into the floor and shatter into pieces. Clopas will have your head in the morning, assuming he's not too hungover then (fat chance of that, all things considered) but in the meantime, Anna just stares wide-eyed at the mess she's caused. \"Ooh,\" she says, \"I guess I shan't be trying that again....\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is where the family keeps the wine and the olive oil. It is a cool, windowless room; the kitchen proper is up some steps to the east.\n\nA broken set of shelves lies shattered and scattered across the floor.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelves", "response": "You always knew that this was how those shelves were going to end up. At least no-one got hurt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shelves", "response": "The splintered shelving may be pointy, but trying to take it would be worse than pointless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the steps", "response": "You want to be careful going up and down these steps. they're rather steep and dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The door to the garden is old and battered and wide open. Through it, you can just make out the peace and quiet of the garden itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, clustered around the venerable old Rabbi.\nThe rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nThe Rabbi is holding court with a crowd of would-be scholars, among whom you recognise Lazarus of Bethany.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...his mother-in-law, would you believe it? Of course he never quite forgave....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Mary", "response": "It seems like every woman is named Mary these days, but this particular Mary is an odd one. She can usually be found hanging about wherever there are learned men having learned discourse; and they say she wants to be a female Rabbi. As if.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wagon driven by a pack of drunken scoundrels. She was barely more than....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about Rabbi", "response": "Mary listens attentively, but has little to tell you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about John", "response": "\"He's certainly very learned. I could listen to him for hours. I haven't seen him this evening, though.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Rabbi", "response": "Zechariah, the Rabbi, is a venerable and ancient man, a learned and highly respected member of the community. Now if only he would shut up once in a while. You've heard it said that he was struck dumb with surprise when he heard he was going to be a father -- given his age and the age of his wife, anyone would be -- and remained that way until his son John was born. But you can hardly believe it.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...in the middle of winter.\nAnyway, she was lost and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Lazarus", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany is a pale, somewhat sickly-looking fellow who was invited along with his sisters Mary and Martha. Martha fusses over him something awful, and you suspect that he brought Little Anna into his household just to divert some of Martha's attention away from himself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about Anna", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany is rather too involved in the ongoing discussion with the Rabbi to pay much attention to what you have to say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about the bridesmaid", "response": "Mary listens attentively, but has little to tell you.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...so the diplomat grabbed the elephant's ear, and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about the wine", "response": "Mary listens attentively, but has little to tell you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about Mary", "response": "(Mary of Bethany)\nMary listens attentively, but has little to tell you.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...must be starving! So I left a platter of her favourite sweetmeats....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nMary, the bride, is about to take a sip from her cup when a guest comes up to offer her congratulations. Mary puts down her cup to thank the guest and promptly forgets about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the cup in the bucket", "response": "You don't really want to draw any attention to that, under the circumstances.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a terrible snob, but you won't find a more honest man....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cup", "response": "Clopas and Mary have been so busy receiving everyone's well-wishes, and with making eyes at each other, that they've barely had time to touch their cups. Under the circumstances, this is probably a good thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Clopas", "response": "As far as employers go, Clopas is not a bad sort. He was rather fearfully late coming in -- his story was that he had to stop and give a hand to some poor Samaritan traveller who'd been set upon by bandits -- and then when he finally did arrive, a bunch of bridesmaids who'd been caught unprepared were sent packing. That's just the kind of guy he is: a bit hard and uncompromising, but always willing to bend over backwards if you need help.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Clopas about Lazarus", "response": "Clopas seems rather pre-occupied with all the complicated business of being a newlywed. It would be a shame to disturb him.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...his mother-in-law, would you believe it? Of course he never quite forgave....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about Lazarus", "response": "Mary seems rather pre-occupied with the complicated business of being a newlywed. It would be a shame to disturb her.\n\nClopas reaches for his cup just as a guest decides to offer her congratulations. Clopas sets down his cup again, reluctantly, to do the polite thing and exchange some small talk with the guest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...rhubarb. Rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb. Rhubarb...?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about the story", "response": "\"There was a ship....\" the bridesmaid describes the voyage of the mariner's ship, which seems mundane enough. \"But that's only the beginning,\" she says.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wagon driven by a pack of drunken scoundrels. She was barely more than....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about the story", "response": "The bridesmaid continues the story, describing a curse which befalls the mariner and his crew.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...honour one's father and mother. Say what you like, he's always done his duty by her....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "The bridesmaid continues the story, describing the nightmarish fate of the mariner's crew and the terrible visions that plagued him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"That's all there is to it, I think,\" says the bridesmaid, shrugging.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"That's all there is to it, I think,\" says the bridesmaid, shrugging.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...such a temper. Their mother's ambitious, though, and won't rest until....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about Rabbi", "response": "\"That's Uncle Zechariah. He's dreadfully old; I can't imagine being that old, can you? And you know, he never stops talking. I remember once Martha filled up his cup with the best wine, but he was so busy talking to Mary and Lazarus that he just put the cup down and forgot about it. Well, Mary and Lazarus and Mary like to listen, but I thought it was a little rude. Martha tells me so all the time. Anna, she says, this non-stop chatter is very tiresome. But of course she nevers tells Uncle Zechariah that to his face, because he's a very important person. But she always makes sure I'm helping her in the kitchen when Uncle Zechariah visits, so I don't get bored.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, clustered around the venerable old Rabbi.\nThe rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nThe Rabbi is holding court with a crowd of would-be scholars, among whom you recognise Lazarus of Bethany.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou notice Mary of Bethany in deep conversation with one of the guests. Or rather, the guest is talking and Mary is listening intently. As the guest moves on towards the main courtyard area, Mary follows along behind, still listening intently and apparently not noticing the change of location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about Lazarus", "response": "\"Martha worries about him because he's not very strong, but he's very smart. Everybody says he's going to be High Priest some day, if he lives long enough. They don't say that last part to his face, of course, and both Martha and Mary get very upset when they hear it.\nThey say it's bad luck, but Lazarus says that if his time comes early, then that's just the way it is.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nMary of Bethany is listening as one of the guests spills his life story to her.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nThe guest, continuing his story, strolls off towards the bridal table. Mary of Bethany follows after, still hanging on to his every word.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...of course no-one likes a tax-collector, but what can you do? At least he's....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThis rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the garden", "response": "This rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThis is about as far from the maddening crowd as you can get, without actually leaving the house. The fig trees provide shade in the daytime, and the air is pleasantly cool; this time of the evening, though, it's rather darker and more shadowy than you care for. The garden itself is to the southeast.\n\nJohn, the Rabbi's son, lounges sullenly against a tree, hugging a nearly-full jug of wine to himself.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about Rabbi", "response": "\"Father wanted me to make an appearance. That's the only reason I'm here at all.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about the soldiers", "response": "John sniffs disdainfully, but declines to say anything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss john", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about John", "response": "\"John ben Zechariah, commonly called the Baptist. What, you really didn't recognise me in this monkey suit (Hebrew unclear - SD.) my father made me put on?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "Is that supposed to be Punic? Your accent is execrable.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is about as far from the maddening crowd as you can get, without actually leaving the house. The fig trees provide shade in the daytime, and the air is pleasantly cool; this time of the evening, though, it's rather darker and more shadowy than you care for. The garden itself is to the southeast.\n\nJohn, the Rabbi's son, lounges sullenly against a tree, hugging a nearly-full jug of wine to himself.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take jug", "response": "John gives Anna a look that sends her scuttling back behind you.\n\"Hands off,\" he growls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the locust", "response": "(first taking the plate of honeyed locusts)\nThat seems to belong to John.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the fig to John", "response": "(first taking the fig trees)\nYou pick a fig and eat it. Yum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about John", "response": "\"I think John is Lazarus's brother, but not a close brother. I mean his parents are totally different people. I wish there were a word for brothers and sisters who aren't actually your brothers and sisters, don't you? Anyway, Mary likes to listen to him, and Lazarus likes to argue with him, but Martha says he ought to clean himself up and marry a nice, respectable girl and settle down. She says he lives out in the wilderness and eats honey and locusts every day, which can't be healthy, but I guess he must like it or he wouldn't do it. Or maybe he's so busy talking he forgets to eat -- his father's the same way.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask John about the locusts", "response": "\"What? I happen to like honeyed locusts. Don't knock 'em till you've tried 'em.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to John", "response": "\"You don't have to tell me,\" John snaps. \"That old man came to the Jordan to be baptised a couple of months ago, and held up two of my disciples for three days, telling it to them. And the whole thing really didn't take more than four minutes, when they repeated it to me later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThis rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about the parents", "response": "Anna looks a little wistful. \"I don't know anything about my parents, but I'd bet they were young ... bet they were smart. Bet they collected things like ashtrays and art.\" She pauses, a little puzzled. \"What's an ashtray?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cup", "response": "She'll only drop it, you're sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the cup to you", "response": "(Little Orphan Anna first taking the cups)\nShe'll only drop it, you're sure.\n\nMary, the bride, is about to take a sip from her cup when a guest comes up to offer his congratulations. Mary puts down her cup to thank the guest and promptly forgets about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cup in bucket", "response": "That's hardly helpful.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...could go for another drink right now. I'm not properly drunk yet....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, clustered around the venerable old Rabbi.\nThe rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nThe Rabbi is holding court with a crowd of would-be scholars, among whom you recognise Lazarus of Bethany.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Lazarus", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany is rather too involved in the ongoing discussion with the Rabbi to pay much attention to what you have to say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Mary", "response": "\"There was a ship...\" you begin, which catches Mary's attention immediately.\n\n\"That sounds familiar,\" she says, giving you her full attention.\n\"Isn't it the beginning part of that rather confused story that the mariner outside tells? If you've got it all organised, I'd like to hear it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "Mary shudders as you describe the curse that befell the mariner's crew. \"How terrible! Should all the people suffer for the sin of one man?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "\"What a terrible story!\" Mary seems to be hanging on to your every word, nonetheless.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...in the middle of winter.\nAnyway, she was lost and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "\"And is that how it ends, with the old mariner turning his gaze away from his suffering to these sea snakes? But why would the Lord relent for something like that?\" Mary looks to you for the moral of the story.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "\"But why would the Lord relent for something like that?\" Mary looks to you for the moral of the story.\n\nMary presses you for further details or possibly an explanation for the more inexplicable aspects of the story, but you have to confess that you cannot add to what you have told her. Disappointed, she returns to the Rabbi and his entourage for more erudite discourse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a pound of flesh, of all things, but then the other gentile's wife pointed out that....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about Martha", "response": "\"My sister means well,\" she says vaguely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...looking for a map of Lutetia and instead discovering that the entire clan....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "(the main table)\nThe table is long, much-used, and heavily stained.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wagon driven by a pack of drunken scoundrels. She was barely more than....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search table", "response": "(the main table)\nThere is nothing on the main table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the table", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...of course no-one likes a tax-collector, but what can you do? At least he's....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nYou are standing beside the village well, a large stone structure with a heavy wooden cover to keep people and wandering animals from falling in. Off to the west is the road to town, and beyond that is the house and the wedding. Fields stretch out in all other directions.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou heave the wooden cover aside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "Little Orphan Anna has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Anna in well", "response": "(the village well)\nThat will only get it wet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bucket in well", "response": "(the village well)\nOh no, you hauled enough water from the well earlier today, filling up those jars for washing feet. You're not doing this again unless you absolutely have to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cover", "response": "You carefully reposition the cover over the well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna, a bridesmaid and an ancient mariner here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nYou are standing beside the village well, a large stone structure with a heavy wooden cover to keep people and wandering animals from falling in. Off to the west is the road to town, and beyond that is the house and the wedding. Fields stretch out in all other directions.\n\nA few soldiers are hanging about nearby, looking grumpy.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\n\"Hey, you there!\" says one of the soldiers, approaching you. \"You're from the house of Clopas, aren't you? Do us a favour. There's this man we're supposed to arrest, one John son of Zechariah. And we know he's at this wedding, but see, we have no idea what he looks like.\"\n\n\"Crazy wild man living in the wilderness, dressed in animal skins,\" says another, \"great description if he were doing his thing over on the Jordan, but here's this wedding and he's probably all cleaned up for it. Probably looks like decent folk. So if you know the guy and could point him out to us, we'd be much obliged.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "Come to think of it, you haven't seen the Rabbi's son since that initial uproar over the (bleagh) honeyed locusts. No telling where he is now, and no telling what you don't know.\n\nLittle Anna tugs on your sleeve and whispers, \"are you sure this is a good idea, sir?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is where the family keeps the wine and the olive oil. It is a cool, windowless room; the kitchen proper is up some steps to the east.\n\nA rickety set of shelves stands against one wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the plate", "response": "You carefully set down the plate of ... food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\n\"Hey, mister!\" Little Anna trots up to you. \"Is it true that there's no more wine? I saw Martha and Amos get into the cart with the donkey and they rode off in such a hurry. Martha said you were going to find a missing jug of wine and maybe that would help. Can I help? Just say the word, sir!\"\n\nHeaven help us.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna, a bridesmaid and an ancient mariner here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nYou are standing beside the village well, a large stone structure with a heavy wooden cover to keep people and wandering animals from falling in. Off to the west is the road to town, and beyond that is the house and the wedding. Fields stretch out in all other directions.\n\nA few soldiers are hanging about nearby, looking grumpy.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\n\"Hey, you there!\" says one of the soldiers, approaching you. \"You're from the house of Clopas, aren't you? Do us a favour. There's this man we're supposed to arrest, one John son of Zechariah. And we know he's at this wedding, but see, we have no idea what he looks like.\"\n\n\"Crazy wild man living in the wilderness, dressed in animal skins,\" says another, \"great description if he were doing his thing over on the Jordan, but here's this wedding and he's probably all cleaned up for it. Probably looks like decent folk. So if you know the guy and could point him out to us, we'd be much obliged.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss john", "response": "John looks at you in puzzlement, then sees the approaching soldiers over your shoulder. \"Oh, I get it,\" he says, his brow darkening, \"this is some sort of identification signal, isn't it? I thought the house of Clopas understood hospitality a little better than that.\"\n\n\"You can come along with us,\" says one of the soldiers, all puffed up with officious importance. John puts up no resistance, but gives you a venomous glance over his shoulder as the soldiers lead him away.\n\nYou are struck by an inexplicaple sense of déjà vu, as the Gauls put it. At any rate, John the Rabbi's son has been taken away and the soldiers are gone, and the errant jug of wine has been left behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nSuccess! Well, assuming there actually is enough wine in the jug to hold off everyone's thirst until Martha and Amos get back. How much wine is there in the jug, anyway?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the jug", "response": "The missing wine jug! Unfortunately, it appears to contain nothing but water.\n\nYou look up from your inspection of the wine jug in time to see Martha and Amos bustle into the kitchen. You can tell from the looks on their faces that their mission has not been a success. \"The only merchant still in the market was a man selling lamp oil,\" Martha tells you, \"he said he'd gotten a very last-minute order for six jars of the stuff, and was hoping there'd be more to come.\" She sighs and glances at the wine jug. \"At least you've been successful. If we water it down a little....\"\n\nYou confess that, as far as you know, watering down the wine is not going to be an issue. Martha groans. \"I'll go tell Clopas,\" she says, \"and see if I can distract the other guests somehow. I don't know what else I can do.\" Taking a deep breath, she marches out into the courtyard like a brave little Maccabean.\n\nAmos, who really should have been the one to inform Clopas, fidgets distractedly and finally pulls out a bowl of dough and proceeds with the baking for the morrow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about the jesus", "response": "\"Oh, I know him, he's a friend of Lazarus's. He's visited us at Bethany a couple of times.\"\n\nThat was odd, now you think about it. John didn't seem at all drunk, and he couldn't possibly have finished off the whole jug by himself. What actually happened to the wine?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, clustered around the venerable old Rabbi.\nThe rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nThe Rabbi is holding court with a crowd of would-be scholars, among whom you recognise Lazarus of Bethany.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about the jesus", "response": "\"Oh, he's dreadfully wise. You've just got to listen a while and you'll understand.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...his mother-in-law, would you believe it? Of course he never quite forgave....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the jesus", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany is rather too involved in the ongoing discussion with the Rabbi to pay much attention to what you have to say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na wine jug", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nClopas reaches for his cup just as a guest decides to offer his congratulations. Clopas sets down his cup again, reluctantly, to do the polite thing and exchange some small talk with the guest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the jug", "response": "If it's not wine, it doesn't belong in the jug.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...looking for a map of Lutetia and instead discovering that the entire clan....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, clustered around the venerable old Rabbi.\nThe rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nThe Rabbi is holding court with a crowd of would-be scholars, among whom you recognise Lazarus of Bethany.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou notice Mary of Bethany in deep conversation with one of the guests. Or rather, the guest is talking and Mary is listening intently. As the guest moves on towards the main courtyard area, Mary follows along behind, still listening intently and apparently not noticing the change of location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nMary of Bethany is listening as one of the guests spills his life story to her.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nThe guest, continuing his story, strolls off towards the bridal table. Mary of Bethany follows after, still hanging on to his every word.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...had this dream about the butcher's late wife, so they called off the wedding....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nMary of Bethany is listening as one of the guests spills his life story to her.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nThe guest concludes his story and disappears into the crowd. Mary nods thoughtfully, then suddenly notices the distinct lack of learned discourse nearby. She even looks a little embarrassed as she hurries back to the west wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about the guest", "response": "(the crowd of guests)\nLittle Anna has entirely too much to say about that, none of it even remotely useful.\n\nClopas reaches for his cup just as a guest decides to offer her congratulations. Clopas sets down his cup again, reluctantly, to do the polite thing and exchange some small talk with the guest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about Mary of Bethany", "response": "\"I think our Mary is the best of all. She always listens when I have a story to tell. Martha says she spends too much time listening and not enough time doing but I think Martha does enough for everybody.\nAnyway, Mary says that all stories mean something if you take the time to listen properly, but a lot of the time she also wants a Rabbi or someone like that to come explain things to her. I think she just likes having people tell her things.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...honour one's father and mother. Say what you like, he's always done his duty by her....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, clustered around the venerable old Rabbi.\nThe rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nThe Rabbi is holding court with a crowd of would-be scholars, among whom you recognise Lazarus of Bethany.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at wall", "response": "The guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, clustered around the venerable old Rabbi.\nThe rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamps", "response": "Several oil lamps light up the courtyard this evening, making it almost as bright as day.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wouldn't believe a word of it. So I said to Thomas, I said....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lamp", "response": "You went through a lot of trouble setting these lamps up earlier today, and you're not about to take them down now. And anyway, they're out of reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about the guest", "response": "(the crowd of would-be scholars)\nMary listens attentively, but has little to tell you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about Rabbi", "response": "Mary listens attentively, but has little to tell you.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...could go for another drink right now. I'm not properly drunk yet....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Rabbi about the story", "response": "The would-be scholars notice the wine jug in your hands, and obligingly let you through to the Rabbi.\n\nThe Rabbi has entirely too much to say about ... some esoteric, metaphysical aspect of whatever it is you were talking about, because you lost it somewhere between the philosophy and the theology.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Rabbi about the jesus", "response": "\"That boy is entirely to smart for his own good.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...down on the Jordan. Surprised to see him here at all, though of course he's disappeared....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Rabbi about John", "response": "\"I take the trouble to pull the boy out of the wilderness and clean him up so he can be presentable, and what happens? He disappears into the garden to sulk. I know, I know, he's practically a prophet, but sometimes I think it would be better if he'd just been a nice little craftsman of some sort instead.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Rabbi about John", "response": "\"He what?\" the old Rabbi stares at you, goggle-eyed, and throws up his hands in horror. \"Then what am I still here talking theology for? Shoo, get out of the way, I got to go do something about my boy. You, Joshua, you're in charge! The rest of you, stay out of trouble!\"\n\nOld Zechariah hustles out of the house with all the speed his old bones can muster, leaving his former entourage to murmur among themselves at this turn of events.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the jesus", "response": "\"Joshua's one of my best friends. I like to think that I'm like Jonathan to his David.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus for jesus", "response": "(Lazarus of Bethany first taking Joshua)\nLazarus of Bethany has better things to do.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...and I'll be writing to Theophilus about that, naturally. He'll be interested to hear....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jesus", "response": "You don't know the guy very well. Most of the guests are relative strangers, and this one is stranger than most: he's supposed to be a carpenter, or so you've heard, but apparently he was already teaching the priests and the Levites their own craft when he was ten. Which makes you kind of glad that you didn't know him way back then.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about the wine", "response": "\"All right, maybe I did have something to do with that. I'm just looking out for my brother and his promises here.\" You tell Joshua how dry the party is getting, but he only shrugs. \"Not my problem, really. Clopas doesn't really need any more wine to have a good party, does he?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about the water", "response": "(Clean water)\nJoshua doesn't seem to have much to say about that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua for the wine", "response": "(Joshua first taking the wine jug)\nJoshua has better things to do.\n\nAnna leans in close to you and says, \"I was wondering, do you think maybe Joshua would help if someone else asked him to, sir? Mary says sometimes that Martha would get a lot more help in the kitchen if she wouldn't nag so -- not that you were nagging at all, sir, but I think sometimes it matters who is doing the asking.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua for the wine", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany has better things to do.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...such a temper. Their mother's ambitious, though, and won't rest until....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about John", "response": "\"John is a great man. If you haven't been baptised by him, you should.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about the carpentry", "response": "Joshua doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...of course no-one likes a tax-collector, but what can you do? At least he's....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua for the wine", "response": "Little Orphan Anna has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Joshua", "response": "You don't know the guy very well. Most of the guests are relative strangers, and this one is stranger than most: he's supposed to be a carpenter, or so you've heard, but apparently he was already teaching the priests and the Levites their own craft when he was ten. Which makes you kind of glad that you didn't know him way back then.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...rhubarb. Rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb. Rhubarb...?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine amos", "response": "Amos is tall, dark and lanky; there's a fair bit of Ethiopian and Egyptian in his blood. He's been appointed head steward for the wedding, though you know that his first love is really the bakery. He has this idea for tiny little bite-sized matzah that he claims are going to make him famous one of these days, once he perfects the recipe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Amos about the food", "response": "\"Well, that part went wonderfully. But I guess we should have paid more attention to the wine, eh? At least the honeyed locusts appear to be gone, even if making up that dish has left us with more leftover honey than I know what to do with.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Amos about honey", "response": "\"Hmm ... that could work, I suppose,\" says Amos.\n\nBefore long, Amos has filled up a tray with honey-flavoured bikkie dough ready for the oven.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dough", "response": "Amos always resorts to baking when he's troubled by something or other. Lately, his recipes seem to taste better (to you, anyway) before they're baked than after; quite fortunately Amos never begrudges you a sample of his experiments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Amos about the dough", "response": "\"I'll get this recipe right one of these days. So if you have any suggestions as to what I can put in this, go ahead and tell me about them.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You taste the dough", "response": "You taste nothing unexpected.\n\nAmos, satisfied that the bikkies are ready for the oven, takes the tray and deposits its contents into the oven, then goes back to mixing up another batch of dough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na wine jug", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThis is where the family keeps the wine and the olive oil. It is a cool, windowless room; the kitchen proper is up some steps to the east.\n\nA rickety set of shelves stands against one wall.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nAnna takes a step back and points up to the top of the shelves. \"Look, there's a jug up there! Maybe there's some wine in it!\" You tell her not to be silly, you know for a fact.... but Anna's already begun clambering up the front of the shelves. As might be expected, the shelves creak alarmingly and begin to sway forward as Anna reaches the top....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Anna", "response": "You snatch Little Anna away from the toppling shelves, and not a moment too soon. The shelves and their precious contents smash into the floor and shatter into pieces. Clopas will have your head in the morning, assuming he's not too hungover then (fat chance of that, all things considered) but in the meantime, Anna just stares wide-eyed at the mess she's caused. \"Ooh,\" she says, \"I guess I shan't be trying that again....\"\n\nAmos pops his head into the winery, takes one good look at the mess, then rubs his head and returns to his baking, muttering that he sees nothing and knows nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThis rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThis is about as far from the maddening crowd as you can get, without actually leaving the house. The fig trees provide shade in the daytime, and the air is pleasantly cool; this time of the evening, though, it's rather darker and more shadowy than you care for. The garden itself is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the figs", "response": "You pick a fig and eat it. Yum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...so the diplomat grabbed the elephant's ear, and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the figs", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...saved the bridge, though if you ask me he should never have wandered off in the first place....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the poison", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...not very bright, but he found the missing animal all the same....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...must be starving! So I left a platter of her favourite sweetmeats....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Amos about the locusts", "response": "\"Well, that particular experiment went well. I'm not trying it again, though I don't know what I'm going to do with the leftover honey.\nThank goodness there aren't any leftover locusts, anyway.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Amos about the wine", "response": "Amos waves you away. \"We're doomed, Micah. I've accepted that. So just leave me to my baking, okay?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "Amos has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Amos about Martha", "response": "\"I can't think why a woman like that isn't already the matriarch of some ever-growing clan. If I weren't a lowly servant --\" Amos stops himself and turns back to his baking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThis is about as far from the maddening crowd as you can get, without actually leaving the house. The fig trees provide shade in the daytime, and the air is pleasantly cool; this time of the evening, though, it's rather darker and more shadowy than you care for. The garden itself is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThis rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamps", "response": "Several oil lamps light up the courtyard this evening, making it almost as bright as day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lamp", "response": "You went through a lot of trouble setting these lamps up earlier today, and you're not about to take them down now. And anyway, they're out of reach.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wagon driven by a pack of drunken scoundrels. She was barely more than....\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a terrible snob, but you won't find a more honest man....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Mary", "response": "It seems like every woman is named Mary these days, but this particular Mary is an odd one. She can usually be found hanging about wherever there are learned men having learned discourse; and they say she wants to be a female Rabbi. As if.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Lazarus", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany is a pale, somewhat sickly-looking fellow who was invited along with his sisters Mary and Martha. Martha fusses over him something awful, and you suspect that he brought Little Anna into his household just to divert some of Martha's attention away from himself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the face", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wouldn't believe a word of it. So I said to Thomas, I said....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about Martha", "response": "\"She's my sister. Why do you ask?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about Anna", "response": "Lazarus absently pats Anna on the head. \"She's not bothering you, is she? She can be a bit of a chatterbox at times, but she means well.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about Rabbi", "response": "\"What? He's a wise and learned man, from a fine priestly family.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about Mary of Bethany", "response": "\"She's my sister. Why do you ask?\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...honour one's father and mother. Say what you like, he's always done his duty by her....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the bride", "response": "\"That Mary is a lovely lady, though I think she's happiest when she's working in the garden. I hear she has quite the charming little plot, all lined with cockle shells and....\" Lazarus pauses in uncertainty. \"Wait, that was a different Mary. Anyway, She'll make a fine wife and mother, I'm sure. Your master is to be congratulated.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...rhubarb. Rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb. Rhubarb...?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the groom", "response": "\"Clopas is a fine fellow, and to be congratulated on his good fortune. Although I gather he's still busy being congratulated, or else he'd be over here adding a little political edge to our theological discussions.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the wine", "response": "Lazarus shrugs. \"A bit of wine at dinner is a good thing, but I avoid excess. It's not good for my health.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the jesus", "response": "\"Joshua's one of my best friends. I like to think that I'm like Jonathan to his David.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...looking for a map of Lutetia and instead discovering that the entire clan....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the health", "response": "\"I'm fine. Really.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the food", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...so the diplomat grabbed the elephant's ear, and....\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss lazarus", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...his mother-in-law, would you believe it? Of course he never quite forgave....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "(the main table)\nThe table is long, much-used, and heavily stained.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hide", "response": "You can run, but you can't hide.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...walked straight up to the high priest without glancing back. They say this means....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smash table", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nClopas reaches for his cup just as a guest decides to offer her congratulations. Clopas sets down his cup again, reluctantly, to do the polite thing and exchange some small talk with the guest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the curtain", "response": "It's not exactly Persian, but it's a heavy, good-looking piece of material.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...could go for another drink right now. I'm not properly drunk yet....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "Little Orphan Anna has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dough", "response": "That seems to belong to Amos.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThis rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the jars", "response": "Even when empty, they're quite heavy; and either way they're dreadfully unwieldy. Best leave them where they are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "You transfer the water from the jug to the bucket. It doesn't exactly help, but at least the water has gone to a better place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at water", "response": "Cool, clear water, with a vaguely mineral aftertaste.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You take a refreshing sip.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...not very bright, but he found the missing animal all the same....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na bucket\na wine jug\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...so the diplomat grabbed the elephant's ear, and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You take a refreshing sip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bucket", "response": "This is the bucket used to carry water from the village well to the house. It's larger than average, but at least that means not having to make quite so many trips back and forth when filling up all those jars in the entryway. Currently, the bucket is full of water, and very heavy.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...of course no-one likes a tax-collector, but what can you do? At least he's....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the water", "response": "(Clean water)\nLazarus of Bethany doesn't seem to have much to say about that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the water to Lazarus", "response": "(first taking Clean water)\nThat seems to be a part of the bucket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about Martha", "response": "\"My sister means well,\" she says vaguely.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...looking for a map of Lutetia and instead discovering that the entire clan....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about the locusts", "response": "\"You'll have to ask Martha, I think,\" Mary says vaguely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find Martha", "response": "She's somewhere about, surely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThis is about as far from the maddening crowd as you can get, without actually leaving the house. The fig trees provide shade in the daytime, and the air is pleasantly cool; this time of the evening, though, it's rather darker and more shadowy than you care for. The garden itself is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThis rather large garden supplements the family's table with a few fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Currently, it's about the only peaceful place on the property. The kitchen is back to the southwest, and a passage leads south to the main entryway. There is a stand of fig trees off to the northwest.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna, a bridesmaid and an ancient mariner here.\n\n\"There was this albatross ... did I mention the albatross?\"\n\n\"Yes,\" says the bridesmaid, barely concealing a yawn, \"yes you did.\"\n\n\"Well, there was this albatross, see, and I thought....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You don't have any business in town.\n\nThe old sailor describes in lurid detail how two hundred men just dropped dead on the deck of a ship. The bridesmaid looks like she's ready to drop dead, herself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nYou are standing beside the village well, a large stone structure with a heavy wooden cover to keep people and wandering animals from falling in. Off to the west is the road to town, and beyond that is the house and the wedding. Fields stretch out in all other directions.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna, a bridesmaid and an ancient mariner here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about story", "response": "Unfortunately, the ancient mariner appears to have the bridesmaid's whole and unwilling attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the mariner about the story", "response": "Little Orphan Anna has better things to do.\n\nThe old sailor seems to break off in the middle of his narrative to describe some beautiful water snakes. The bridesmaid doesn't seem to notice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about John", "response": "\"I think John is Lazarus's brother, but not a close brother. I mean his parents are totally different people. I wish there were a word for brothers and sisters who aren't actually your brothers and sisters, don't you? Anyway, Mary likes to listen to him, and Lazarus likes to argue with him, but Martha says he ought to clean himself up and marry a nice, respectable girl and settle down. She says he lives out in the wilderness and eats honey and locusts every day, which can't be healthy, but I guess he must like it or he wouldn't do it. Or maybe he's so busy talking he forgets to eat -- his father's the same way.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a terrible snob, but you won't find a more honest man....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about Rabbi", "response": "\"What? He's a wise and learned man, from a fine priestly family.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Lazarus about wine", "response": "It seems unlikely that you could get much help there, and anyway it's really not your place to intrude.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...such a temper. Their mother's ambitious, though, and won't rest until....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the jesus about the wine", "response": "You tell Joshua how dry the party is getting, but he only shrugs. \"Not my problem, really. Clopas doesn't really need any more wine to have a good party, does he?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...must be starving! So I left a platter of her favourite sweetmeats....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Clopas about the wine", "response": "Clopas seems rather pre-occupied with all the complicated business of being a newlywed. It would be a shame to disturb him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nMary, the bride, is about to take a sip from her cup when a guest comes up to offer his congratulations. Mary puts down her cup to thank the guest and promptly forgets about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna, a bridesmaid and an ancient mariner here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the water at the mariner", "response": "(first taking Clean water)\nThat seems to be a part of the bucket.\n\n\"There passed a weary time ... a weary time! a weary time!\" the old sailor mumbles.\n\n\"I can well imagine,\" mutters the bridesmaid, with a glazed and weary eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take mariner", "response": "I don't suppose the ancient mariner would care for that.\n\n\"There was a ship,\" quoth the mariner.\n\n\"We've been through this,\" says the bridesmaid, a trifle desperately.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the mariner", "response": "Little Orphan Anna has better things to do.\n\n\"...the dead men rose up, but don't be alarmed ... it was a troop of blessed spirits....\"\n\nThe bridesmaid, however alarmed she might have been the first time around, takes this \"revelation\" with not much more than a resigned sigh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wagon driven by a pack of drunken scoundrels. She was barely more than....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about the mariner", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...walked straight up to the high priest without glancing back. They say this means....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Mary about the mariner", "response": "Mary listens attentively, but has little to tell you.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...his mother-in-law, would you believe it? Of course he never quite forgave....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Mary about the wine", "response": "\"I'm sorry to hear it,\" Mary says sympathetically. \"I wish there were something I could do to help.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua for the wine", "response": "Mary of Bethany has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about Joshua", "response": "\"Oh, he's dreadfully wise. You've just got to listen a while and you'll understand.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give jug to Mary", "response": "Er, maybe it would be best if you don't do that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...of course no-one likes a tax-collector, but what can you do? At least he's....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about the story", "response": "\"Perhaps you can tell me.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a pound of flesh, of all things, but then the other gentile's wife pointed out that....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...had this dream about the butcher's late wife, so they called off the wedding....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Amos about the recipe", "response": "Amos spends a minute or so nattering on about the finer points of his experiments. \"But it's still missing something, I think.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Amos about the honey", "response": "\"Hmm ... I suppose I could make up another batch with that,\" says Amos.\n\nBefore long, Amos has filled up a tray with honey-flavoured bikkie dough ready for the oven.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tray", "response": "Amos calls them \"bakies\" or \"bikkies\" (Hebrew unclear - SD) because they're supposed to be baked. These are less than half-baked, being raw, but look no less delicious and full of honey-flavoured goodness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tray", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na tray of bikkies\na bucket\na wine jug", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bikkies to Lazarus", "response": "Lazarus of Bethany doesn't seem interested.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...looking for a map of Lutetia and instead discovering that the entire clan....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give tray to Joshua", "response": "Joshua's eyes light up as he takes a bikkie and breaks it into four quarters. \"Thanks,\" he says, after muttering a quick blessing over the bikkie quarters and popping one into his mouth. \"I love these things.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua for the wine", "response": "(Joshua first taking the wine jug)\nJoshua has better things to do.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...rhubarb. Rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb. Rhubarb...?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about the wine", "response": "You tell Joshua how dry the party is getting, but he only shrugs. \"Not my problem, really. Clopas doesn't really need any more wine to have a good party, does he?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na tray of bikkies\na bucket\na wine jug\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...thankfully managed to work around their language differences and got the medicine for....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the tray to Joshua", "response": "Joshua's eyes light up as he takes a bikkie and breaks it into four quarters. \"Thanks,\" he says, popping one into his mouth. \"I love these things.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...his mother-in-law, would you believe it? Of course he never quite forgave....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show tray to Joshua", "response": "Joshua's eyes light up as he takes a bikkie and breaks it into four quarters. \"Thanks,\" he says, popping one into his mouth. \"I love these things.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tray on the table", "response": "You put the tray of bikkies on the main table.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nOn the main table is a tray of bikkies.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nClopas reaches for his cup just as a guest decides to offer her congratulations. Clopas sets down his cup again, reluctantly, to do the polite thing and exchange some small talk with the guest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tray", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...such a temper. Their mother's ambitious, though, and won't rest until....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the tray to Anna", "response": "\"Oh, may I?\" Anna takes a bikkie before you can answer, pops it into her mouth, and begins chewing happily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...could go for another drink right now. I'm not properly drunk yet....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nAnna finally unsticks all the bikkie dough from her teeth, and unfortunately returns to her chatterbox ways.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna, a bridesmaid and an ancient mariner here.\n\n\"There was this albatross ... did I mention the albatross?\"\n\n\"Yes,\" says the bridesmaid, barely concealing a yawn, \"yes you did.\"\n\n\"Well, there was this albatross, see, and I thought....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the tray to the mariner", "response": "The ancient mariner absently takes a bikkie and begins munching on it. But when he tries to continue his story, the sticky bikkie dough proves too much for his old jaws, and he is reduced to silence. The bridesmaid seizes her chance. She leaps to her feet, thanks the mariner very nicely for sharing his story with her, and hurries into the house. The mariner stares sadly after her, then helps himself to another bikkie and hobbles off down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and a bridesmaid here.\n\n\"Thank you,\" says the bridesmaid, \"I didn't think the old man would ever stop talking, and somehow I just couldn't stop listening to him. It's not that his story was all that long and terrible; it's actually not bad, once you've put the pieces together. But he would insist on jumping around at random, and repeating some bits over and over.\" She sighs and turns to enter the courtyard. \"Well, ask me about the story sometime, if you want to know what it was all about, and I'll tell it to you so that it makes sense. For now, I'm just going to go and enjoy what's left of the party.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about the story", "response": "\"There was a ship....\" the bridesmaid describes the voyage of the mariner's ship, which seems mundane enough. \"But that's only the beginning,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "The bridesmaid continues the story, describing a curse which befalls the mariner and his crew.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "The bridesmaid continues the story, describing the nightmarish fate of the mariner's crew and the terrible visions that plagued him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "The bridesmaid tells of how the mariner's adventures ended, rather inexplicably, when he stops to admire some sea creatures.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...must be starving! So I left a platter of her favourite sweetmeats....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about moral", "response": "The bridesmaid doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...saved the bridge, though if you ask me he should never have wandered off in the first place....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Mary", "response": "\"There was a ship...\" you begin, which catches Mary's attention immediately.\n\n\"That sounds familiar,\" she says, giving you her full attention.\n\"Isn't it the beginning part of that rather confused story that the mariner outside tells? If you've got it all organised, I'd like to hear it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "Mary shudders as you describe the curse that befell the mariner's crew. \"How terrible! Should all the people suffer for the sin of one man?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"What a terrible story!\" Mary seems to be hanging on to your every word, nonetheless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"And is that how it ends, with the old mariner turning his gaze away from his suffering to these sea snakes? But why would the Lord relent for something like that?\" Mary looks to you for the moral of the story.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...rhubarb. Rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb. Rhubarb...?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the wine jug to Mary", "response": "Er, maybe it would be best if you don't do that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wouldn't believe a word of it. So I said to Thomas, I said....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Lazarus", "response": "It seems unlikely that you could get much help there, and anyway it's really not your place to intrude.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...thankfully managed to work around their language differences and got the medicine for....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the wine jug to Mary", "response": "Er, maybe it would be best if you don't do that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...must be starving! So I left a platter of her favourite sweetmeats....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like Raphael following Tobias, but with significantly less divine intent.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...of course no-one likes a tax-collector, but what can you do? At least he's....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...his mother-in-law, would you believe it? Of course he never quite forgave....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Mary", "response": "Mary frowns. \"I hope you know a little more about it than you did the last time.\" She listens as you quickly go over the initial part of the story again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\n\"Wait up,\" says Mary of Bethany, trailing after you, \"we're not finished yet!\"\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers nearby, her attention focussed on you.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...honour one's father and mother. Say what you like, he's always done his duty by her....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Mary", "response": "You repeat the part about the curse that befell the mariner's crew. Mary nods thoughtfully, still searching your words for any grain of meaning she might have missed the first time around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\n\"Wait up,\" says Mary of Bethany, trailing after you, \"we're not finished yet!\"\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers nearby, her attention focussed on you.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\n\"Wait up,\" says Mary of Bethany, trailing after you, \"we're not finished yet!\"\n\nThis is where the family keeps the wine and the olive oil. It is a cool, windowless room; the kitchen proper is up some steps to the east.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers nearby, her attention focussed on you.\n\nA broken set of shelves lies shattered and scattered across the floor.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Mary", "response": "\"But why would the Lord relent for something like that?\" Mary looks to you for the moral of the story.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "\"But why would the Lord relent for something like that?\" Mary looks to you for the moral of the story.\n\nMary presses you for further details or possibly an explanation for the more inexplicable aspects of the story, but you have to confess that you cannot add to what you have told her. Disappointed, she returns to the Rabbi and his entourage for more erudite discourse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about the story", "response": "\"I've overheard a little bit of the story that the old mariner outside has been telling, sir, and it's really quite amazing, only it's all jumbled up when he tells it. That old mariner seems to have rather an amazing imagination, sir. Or do you think it could all be real? I mean, I hear that a lot of awful things happen at sea, that's why I'm glad I'm not from the tribe of Zebulun. Lazarus told me all about Jacob's blessing on Zebulun, sir. They're supposed to be great sailors, and one imagines that it would be terribly romantic, to be out on the sea with water all around and the sky arching across overhead, but after listening to a bit of the old mariner's story, I think I'd much rather stay on land.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about the zebulun", "response": "Joshua doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a pound of flesh, of all things, but then the other gentile's wife pointed out that....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna and Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cover", "response": "You heave the wooden cover aside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water in the well", "response": "Which do you mean, the village well or the well water?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Village", "response": "(Clean water in the village well)\nI think you've got this backwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the well water in the bucket", "response": "No sense in making a mess here, especially since you're the one who'll have to clean it up afterwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "Oh no, you hauled enough water from the well earlier today, filling up those jars for washing feet. You're not doing this again unless you absolutely have to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the sort of disciple no prophet ever wants.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nYou are standing beside the village well, a large stone structure with a heavy wooden cover to keep people and wandering animals from falling in. Off to the west is the road to town, and beyond that is the house and the wedding. Fields stretch out in all other directions.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou carefully reposition the cover over the well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water into the jars", "response": "You pour the water into one of the jars. It isn't quite full to the top, and there are five more to go....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...saved the bridge, though if you ask me he should never have wandered off in the first place....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Joshua", "response": "You don't know the guy very well. Most of the guests are relative strangers, and this one is stranger than most: he's supposed to be a carpenter, or so you've heard, but apparently he was already teaching the priests and the Levites their own craft when he was ten. Which makes you kind of glad that you didn't know him way back then.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about the feet", "response": "Joshua doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...wouldn't believe a word of it. So I said to Thomas, I said....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Joshua", "response": "You might get further if you tried either asking or telling Joshua about something specific.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...had this dream about the butcher's late wife, so they called off the wedding....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Joshua about the mariner's story", "response": "Joshua doesn't seem to have anything to add to what you tell him.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...rhubarb. Rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb. Rhubarb...?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about the story", "response": "You don't want to hear that long rigmarole again.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...of course no-one likes a tax-collector, but what can you do? At least he's....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Mary", "response": "Mary frowns. \"I hope you know a little more about it than you did the last time.\" She listens as you quickly go over the initial part of the story again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell story to Mary", "response": "You repeat the part about the curse that befell the mariner's crew. Mary nods thoughtfully, still searching your words for any grain of meaning she might have missed the first time around.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...thankfully managed to work around their language differences and got the medicine for....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Mary", "response": "\"But why would the Lord relent for something like that?\" Mary looks to you for the moral of the story.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...saved the bridge, though if you ask me he should never have wandered off in the first place....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the story to Mary", "response": "\"But why would the Lord relent for something like that?\" Mary looks to you for the moral of the story.\n\nMary presses you for further details or possibly an explanation for the more inexplicable aspects of the story, but you have to confess that you cannot add to what you have told her. Disappointed, she returns to the Rabbi and his entourage for more erudite discourse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Joshua", "response": "You don't know the guy very well. Most of the guests are relative strangers, and this one is stranger than most: he's supposed to be a carpenter, or so you've heard, but apparently he was already teaching the priests and the Levites their own craft when he was ten. Which makes you kind of glad that you didn't know him way back then.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...could go for another drink right now. I'm not properly drunk yet....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary for Joshua", "response": "(Mary of Bethany first taking Joshua)\nMary of Bethany has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about the jug", "response": "Mary listens attentively, but has little to tell you.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...had this dream about the butcher's late wife, so they called off the wedding....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about sailor", "response": "Joshua doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...in the middle of winter.\nAnyway, she was lost and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Joshua about the story", "response": "Joshua doesn't seem to have anything to add to what you tell him.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...looking for a map of Lutetia and instead discovering that the entire clan....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary about Joshua", "response": "\"Oh, he's dreadfully wise. You've just got to listen a while and you'll understand.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...so the diplomat grabbed the elephant's ear, and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to Joshua", "response": "\"...down on the Jordan. Surprised to see him here at all, though of course he's disappeared....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "\"...had this dream about the butcher's late wife, so they called off the wedding....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...rhubarb. Rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb. Rhubarb...?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Nazareth", "response": "\"A relative of your master's, I think? I think I met her earlier in the evening ... a quiet woman, very dignified. You've got to admire a woman who can keep calm in the midst of wedding preparations.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about the mariner", "response": "The bridesmaid makes a face. \"That man just would not shut up. It would be one thing if he could tell his story straight, but he would insist on messing it all up. I could tell it better than he does; I mean, I've heard it at least five times over by now, backwards, forwards and sideways.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about John", "response": "\"Rabbi Zechariah's son.\" She smirks a little. \"I don't think there's anyone who doesn't know about his preaching out on the Jordan. I can't imagine what his father must think.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...looking for a map of Lutetia and instead discovering that the entire clan....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about Rabbi", "response": "\"A very fine and learned man, I'm sure, and a pillar of the community. All the same, I think I'll keep my distance: he bores me to tears.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a terrible snob, but you won't find a more honest man....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about Lazarus", "response": "\"Wasn't he one of the potential candidates for the position of High Priest? I hear his health isn't very good.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bridesmaid", "response": "You recognise her as one of the bridesmaids who'd been arranged for the wedding. She wasn't actually at the wedding, though: Clopas was running a little late, and a bunch of the bridesmaids, including this one, had to run off to the market to replenish the oil in their lamps when he finally arrived. These bridesmaids missed the wedding altogether as a result, and you thought they'd all gone home. Apparently one of them, at least, is still hanging around.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a pound of flesh, of all things, but then the other gentile's wife pointed out that....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bridesmaid about the bride", "response": "You think you detect a hint of bitterness in the bridesmaid's tone as she says, \"Mary? She's quite radiant tonight, isn't she?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThe lamps are brightest here, where the main table overlooks the crush of wedding guests to the north and northwest. The family's main sleeping quarters are beyond, to the south, but no-one has any business going there.\n\nThe happy couple sit here, accepting congratulations and well wishes, and occasionally exchanging shy glances as if they'd only just met.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nMary, the bride, is about to take a sip from her cup when a guest comes up to offer her congratulations. Mary puts down her cup to thank the guest and promptly forgets about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Mary", "response": "Mary, the bride, looks absolutely radiant, if a little thirsty. She's been so busy receiving everyone's congratulations that she hasn't been able to take more than a sip from the cup that Amos poured for her, hours ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cup", "response": "You don't really want to draw any attention to that, under the circumstances.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...of course no-one likes a tax-collector, but what can you do? At least he's....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a guilty conscience.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...so the diplomat grabbed the elephant's ear, and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the guests", "response": "You've identified a number of women who might be Mary of Nazareth.\nThat is about all you can say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe guests gather in clumps along the western periphery of the courtyard, under the glow of the hanging lamps. Of particular note is the more scholarly crowd, milling about restlessly since the departure of the Rabbi. The rest of the courtyard is to east and southeast.\n\nMary of Bethany hovers on the periphery, largely ignored by the learned men.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Lazarus of Bethany here.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...down on the Jordan. Surprised to see him here at all, though of course he's disappeared....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about Mary", "response": "(Mary of Bethany)\n\"A lot of people would do well to learn from her.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about the joseph", "response": "Joshua doesn't seem to have much to say about that.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...in the middle of winter.\nAnyway, she was lost and....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Joshua about Mary of the nazareth", "response": "\"She's my mother. Obviously I wouldn't say or do anything but that which would honour her.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Joshua", "response": "You don't know the guy very well. Most of the guests are relative strangers, and this one is stranger than most: he's supposed to be a carpenter, or so you've heard, but apparently he was already teaching the priests and the Levites their own craft when he was ten. Which makes you kind of glad that you didn't know him way back then.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Anna about Mary of the nazareth", "response": "\"Mary is a really common name, isn't it? I know half of the women in the crowd are named Mary, and I can point them out, too.\"\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...must be starving! So I left a platter of her favourite sweetmeats....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lazarus about Mary of the nazareth", "response": "\"Joshua's mother? We actually weren't sure if she would come, you know. But Martha convinced her to put away her widow's weeds and put on a nice, blue dress, and she's somewhere about.\"\n\nPutting together all the information you've gathered, you think you could probably now pick the right Mary out of the crowd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the guests", "response": "Following the clues you've gathered, you manage to identify one of the women hovering around the courtyard as Mary of Nazareth, mother of Joshua.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Mary of Nazareth here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mary of the nazareth about Joshua", "response": "\"I am truly blessed to have such a son,\" she says. She sounds like she means that, too, and yet the words seem to trouble her.\n\nYou hear the guests chattering on: \"...a pound of flesh, of all things, but then the other gentile's wife pointed out that....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Mary about the wine", "response": "You tell Mary of Nazareth how you've almost run out of wine and how it has been suggested that her son might be able to help but that he doesn't seem interested in doing so. \"Let me have a word with him,\" she says.\n\nMary pulls her son aside and repeats to him what you've told her about the wine shortage. He glances at you and tells her what he told you, that it's really not his problem, adding a cryptic phrase, that his \"hour has not yet come.\"\n\nMary seems unperturbed. She simply turns to you and says, \"do whatever he tells you to.\"\n\nYou glance over to Joshua. For a moment it looks like you're back where you began, and then he quietly says to you: \"All right. You know those large water jars in the entryway alcove? Fill them all with water, up to the brim.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Little Orphan Anna, Joshua and Mary of Nazareth here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an Egyptian plague.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like the too-long hem of an over-sized robe.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a lost sheep.\n\nYou are standing beside the village well, a large stone structure with a heavy wooden cover to keep people and wandering animals from falling in. Off to the west is the road to town, and beyond that is the house and the wedding. Fields stretch out in all other directions.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou heave the wooden cover aside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "You lower the bucket into the well and heave it up full of water. Oof, it's heavy; you put down the bucket and pause to catch your breath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou carefully reposition the cover over the well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like an annoying following thing that follows.\n\nThe road to town stretches off to the south, and the house is back to the west. The dust has finally settled from the arrival of guests, and, compared to the noisy hubbub back in the courtyard, the street is blissfully quiet. It's probably even more quiet by the village well, across the street to the east.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a red-headed shadow.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the jars", "response": "You pour the water into one of the jars. It isn't quite full to the top, and there are five more to go....\n\nThere's really no need to describe the tedious task of refilling the jars of water. Suffice it to say that you make several trips to and from the well, with Little Anna constantly hounding at your heels. At last, you have five of the jars filled to the brim; one more bucket of water, and you should be done....\n\nYou are standing beside the village well, a large stone structure with a heavy wooden cover to keep people and wandering animals from falling in. Off to the west is the road to town, and beyond that is the house and the wedding. Fields stretch out in all other directions.\n\nYou're exhausted. But one more bucket should do the trick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou heave the wooden cover aside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "You lower the bucket into the well and heave it up full of water. Oof, it's heavy; you put down the bucket and pause to catch your breath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Anna", "response": "You reach instinctively for Anna, but hesitate for a split-second. Sure, she's only an orphan and she's been nothing but a pest, but ... on the other hand, Mary of Nazareth did say to do exactly what Joshua told you, and Joshua -- who must be some sort of prophet along the lines of Elijah or Elisha if John is to be believed -- said to fill the jars to the brim, and if you lose the bucket.... What do you do?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Anna", "response": "You catch hold of Anna's arm as she goes over the edge, and pull her back to safety. For a moment, you both sit there, a little shocked at what's happened. \"Thank you,\" Anna says, weakly. \"I ... I'm sorry about the bucket. Maybe Joshua won't mind that one of the jars isn't quite full?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou can't see into the well with the cover covering it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in well", "response": "(the village well)\nThe water seems dark and cold, at least from out here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter well", "response": "(the village well)\nIt's cold and dark and wet and you're just asking for trouble, aren't you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close well", "response": "(the village well)\nYou carefully reposition the cover over the well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na tray of bikkies\na wine jug", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Rather annoyingly, Anna trails along behind you like a little lost puppy.\n\nThis oddly-shaped room is the house's main entryway. The street is out to the east, and the courtyard is to the southwest. In addition, a narrow passage leads north to an enclosed garden.\n\nMost of the oddity of the room's shape comes from the placement of an alcove, situated just so, to inconvenience any invading evil spirits.\n\nYou can see Little Orphan Anna here.\n\nJoshua strolls into the entryway. \"Ah, I see the jars all filled up?\"\n\nYou shake your head and mumble something about losing the bucket, as Little Anna begins a long-winded account of what happened at the well. Joshua looks a little bemused, and gestures for you both to settle down. \"Please,\" he says, \"how much of a stickler do you think I am, over these trivialities?\" Producing a ladle which he must have swiped from the kitchen while you were busy hauling water, he draws out a bit of the water from the nearest jar and hands the ladle to you. \"Here, let Amos have a taste of this and see what he thinks.\"\n\nThankfully, Little Anna seems to have decided she can be of more \"use\" pleading your case to Joshua than following you around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "The kitchen is dim and smoky and cluttered, the result of the chaos of preparing for the wedding, currently underway in the courtyard to the south. In the northeast corner, the door to the garden stands wide open, in the hopes of letting in some cool air. Down some steps to the west is the winery.\n\nYou can see Amos here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the ladle to Amos", "response": "You hand the ladle over to Amos, uncomfortably aware that you've got to be playing part of a very sick joke here. Amos, all unaware and curious, takes a sip. His brow shoots up and, amazingly, he takes another sip. Before you know it, he's gone and drunk down half the ladle. \"Micah,\" he gasps, incredulous, \"where'd you get this? This is the good stuff ... Clopas has been holding out on us!\"\n\nWhat? Amos offers the ladle to you, and you hesitantly take a sip ... and it is the best wine you've ever been lucky enough to taste. \"It's perfect,\" Amos says exultantly, \"the aroma! The bouquet! Even the way it sits at the bottom of the ladle, weighting it in a way that demonstrates the absolute perfection of its design! I must tell Clopas!\" And with that, Amos hurries off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You'd better go see about the rest of those jars of ... water? Wine? Whatever it is, you've got to go see.\n\nThe courtyard is a large and spacious place, but the crush of wedding guests makes it seem a lot smaller. Off to the west, the guests gather in smaller, tighter groups under the hanging lamps, and you can see the bridal table to the south. You could retreat north to the kitchen (not that that would be any better) or northeast to the entryway. The bridal chamber is to the east, its doorway screened by an elaborate curtain.\n\nYou can see the bridesmaid, the one you rescued from the ancient mariner, mingling with the guests.\n\nYou can also see Mary of Nazareth here.\n\nYou can see a bit of excitement off to the south, where Amos is waxing lyrical over the sheer perfection of the wine. A job well done, you think, smiling in satisfaction. You don't notice Joshua until he is right behind you. \"Micah?\" he says, and it occurs to you that you never told him your name. \"Micah, where is John ben Zechariah?\"\n\n\"I don't know ... I'm not his keeper,\" you stammer, recognising only too late the parallel with Cain's answer to a similar question about Abel.\n\nThere is an uncomfortable pause. Then Joshua says, \"John would have been arrested sooner or later, that is true. But all the same ... you disappoint me, Micah.\"\n\nHe pauses, waiting for you to respond, but all you can do is hang your head in shame. Sighing, Joshua turns to join the feast.\n\nThree years later...\n\nYou've been out of Clopas's service for a while now. After he found out that you'd let a bunch of soldiers -- unclean soldiers, Herod's soldiers -- into his house, there wasn't much possibility of you staying with him. Since then, you've rattled from master to master, and the rise of Joshua's fame has only served to remind you of your guilt over those events at Clopas's wedding.\n\nJoshua was executed a few days ago; you know that Clopas had high hopes for the man, so he must be quite devastated at this turn of events. It is while musing over this that you catch sight, out of the corner of your eye, of a flash of red hair vanishing behind the lone tree in the middle of the field. For a moment, you think, could it be Little Anna? Before you know it, you find yourself in the middle of the field, under the tree. Little Anna is nowhere in sight.\n\nThis field isn't much to look at. There's a tall tree, more dead than alive; there are some rocks and a lot of clay. The road is off to the south, and a small stream is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "More dead than alive, the tree looks like dead hand clawing at the sky.\n\nYou hear a nasty snapping sound from above, and duck aside just in time. A red-headed man lands on the rocks right beside you with a sound you'd rather not ever hear again. An attempted suicide, if the broken noose about his neck is anything to go by. With a start, you recognise him as Judas Iscariot, one of Joshua's friends. Has Joshua's execution really affected him that badly?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Judas", "response": "You don't know all of Joshua's particular group of friends, but Judas always stood out because of his red hair. As you peer closely at him, his eyelids flutter open. He's still alive! Although, judging by the fall, he's not likely to be alive for much longer.\n\nJudas's voice is a hoarse whisper. \"Water. Please.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is all really too much. Maybe it's best if you just get as far away from here as you can, as quickly as you can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The grasses grow a little higher here, and nearly hide a small stream that trickles past on its way to greener pastures. The field is back to the east; everywhere else is unfamiliar territory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the water", "response": "You scoop up a bit of water in your hands. It begins to trickle out between your fingers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This field isn't much to look at. There's a tall tree, more dead than alive; there are some rocks and a lot of clay. The road is off to the south, and a small stream is to the west.\n\nJudas lies sprawled among the rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the water to Judas", "response": "Judas takes a sip and closes his eyes. He is very still, and for a moment you think he's dead, and then you hear him go on: \"I have sinned. My teacher has been executed by crucifixion ... I betrayed him ... with a kiss, I betrayed him....\"\n\nYou draw back, startled, remembering your own experience with John ben Zechariah and Herod's soldiers. Judas doesn't notice. \"Is there forgiveness? I should have sought forgiveness ... they would not have forgiven me ... I don't know that ... I didn't dare ... I was afraid ... and so I damn myself....\"\n\nSuddenly, his eyes snap open, and he looks straight at you. \"Blessed are the merciful,\" he says, a little louder than you would have thought possible, \"they shall have mercy shown upon them.\" And then he really is gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search Judas", "response": "He's dead. There's nothing more you can do for him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put rocks on Judas", "response": "(first taking the clay)\n\nThat's hardly portable.\nYou need to be holding the clay before you can put it on top of something else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You cannot leave the scene fast enough. There's no way you're going to end up the same way, you tell yourself. What was it he said? He didn't dare ask for forgiveness? You stop at the side of the road and look down towards Jerusalem. Neither John nor his father are still among the living, but there's Joshua's mother ... his closest friends, who'll want to know of Judas's fate ... and Clopas usually has some business in Emmaus at this time of the year, you might be able to catch him there.... It's time to get some things off your chest.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Historical" ]

[ "child protagonist", "escape", "family", "house setting", "IF Competition 2012", "IFComp Game", "male protagonist", "parser", "post-modern", "small map", "translation available", "Victorian", "Xyzzy Awards 2012" ]

[ 3, 6, 7, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "July, 1892.\n\nFather is off to Oxford again, and Mother's gone with him. You know what that means: another day in the care of Uncle Stephen, who is nice but boring, and Aunt Emma, who means well but won't let you do anything fun. Worst of all, it's a Sunday, which means you're sitting very upright in Aunt Emma's parlour, in all your stiff-starched Sunday best, trying to read Uncle Stephen's latest sermon about one of the less-interesting parts of the Bible while Aunt Emma pretends that she wouldn't rather be knitting and Uncle Stephen hides under a pile of Hebrew and Latin and Greek in his study.\n\nPlus, it's gloriously sunny outside, and you can smell the grass from in here. It's just not fair. All the servants have the day off because Uncle Stephen and Aunt Emma don't believe in making people do any real work on Sundays, and you can bet that they -- Janet and Morris and Cookie, each of whom is loads more fun than Uncle Stephen and Aunt Emma put together -- are probably not all cooped up indoors in their Sunday best.\n\nIf only there were some way you could escape....\n\n(Type \"HELP\" for further information, instructions or hints)\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at Victoria", "response": "Mother has a portrait just like this back home, hung in exactly the same place over the parlour fireplace. Everybody you know has the same. You reckon that anyone who doesn't must be a spy, a heretic, a foreigner, or worse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Bible", "response": "Aunt Emma's had the same Bible for as long as you've known her. How she manages to keep it from getting dog-eared, given how often she reads it, you do not know. Aunt Emma has it open on her lap, and you notice that she's using Janet's master key to mark her place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the key", "response": "The master key is usually carried by the servants, which seems a little ironic. But then it's the servants who need to get into every nook and cranny of the house, from attic to coal cellar; normal people only need to get into the civilised living spaces. Since the servants today are out, it's been handed over to Aunt Emma ... which still seems a little ironic, since she's the mistress of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Emma", "response": "Aunt Emma is Uncle Stephen's sister, one of those maiden aunts who always ends up chaperoning people around; which, as you understand it, means it's her job to make sure people don't have any fun. You know she means well, really, but she takes her job much too seriously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fireplace", "response": "The fireplace is cold this time of the year, just as it should be.\nThe mantel above is, as usual, burgeoning with a million little ornaments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mantel", "response": "It's one of those extraordinarily sturdy oak affairs. Every time you visit, it looks as though it could not possibly hold even one more little ornament without collapsing; and yet, every time you visit, it looks as though Aunt Emma has managed to fit one more thing on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nAmong the many souvenirs of ancient history, you spot a duelling pistol. That doesn't look like the sort of thing boring people like Aunt Emma or Uncle Stephen (or, let's face it, anyone in your whole family) are likely to keep around the house!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the pistol", "response": "\"That used to belong to an old friend. I don't normally hold with duelling, but he was a very dear friend and ... you really should get back to your reading, Hector.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the friend", "response": "\"You are referring to a dear, old friend of the family,\" says Aunt Emma, not looking at you. \"He got a commission with the army and went to India and ... war is a nasty, nasty business, Hector. I hope and pray that you never have to see it.\" Well, perhaps, but it would be really exciting....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the war", "response": "\"That,\" says Aunt Emma firmly, \"is thankfully something about which I know absolutely nothing.\"\n\nYour family is so boring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the india", "response": "\"I much prefer to stay in England, thank you very much. Strange lands like India are for wanderers with more courage than sense.\" Aunt Emma pauses. \"Well, courage ... it's a very fine thing, I suppose....\"\n\nYou're sure you hear Aunt Emma say something about \"dear old Captain Davis...\" as she turns back to her Bible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about Davis", "response": "\"Captain Davis was a dear, old friend of the family,\" says Aunt Emma, not looking at you. \"He got a commission with the army and went to India and ... war is a nasty, nasty business, Hector. I hope and pray that you never have to see it.\" Well, perhaps, but it would be really exciting....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about Bible", "response": "Aunt Emma wouldn't have anything interesting to say about that, surely; at least, nothing that you would find interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the armchair", "response": "Give Aunt Emma due credit: she did make sure you always got the most comfortable armchair in the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You've been thoroughly scrubbed and ironed and starched into your least comfortable set of clothes. One day, when you are either Prime Minister or Archbishop of Canterbury -- depending on whether you listen to Mother or Father -- you're going to outlaw starch or declare it anathema or both.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "From here, you can see the lawn and the woods and the distant spires of the cathedral. The sun is shining and you know that the woods are just bursting with interesting things to discover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Cathedral", "response": "Barchester Cathedral is just visible beyond the woods. You can't make out the details, but you know it's all very grand and impressive, at least to someone who isn't made to go there quite as regularly as you are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sun", "response": "Why are you still indoors? Why?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at woods", "response": "The woods look incredibly enticing this time of the year.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nUncle Stephen's latest sermon", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sermon", "response": "Uncle Stephen seems to have picked 1 Chronicles 6:1-15 as the topic of his sermon. Oh dear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sermon to Emma", "response": "Aunt Emma tries to explain the sermon to you. Her rather confused and unintelligible rambling fails to make it any more interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the levi", "response": "Aunt Emma wouldn't have anything interesting to say about that, surely; at least, nothing that you would find interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put sermon on mantel", "response": "There's no room. There's never any room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the window", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one. Also, Uncle Stephen would tan your hide.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the sermon to Emma", "response": "You show Uncle Stephen's latest sermon to Aunt Emma.\n\nAunt Emma tries to explain the sermon to you. Her rather confused and unintelligible rambling fails to make it any more interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the key", "response": "\"Someone has to take care of supper while the servants are away, Hector.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the portrait", "response": "The portrait is out of reach. Besides, that would probably be lèse-majesté, which you just learned about last Spring in\nyour French lessons. You would never want to visit a French crime on your English queen. That would be wrong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "Ask, and it shall be given you; but somehow you doubt if this will be the case here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma for the key", "response": "Ask, and it shall be given you; but that is clearly not the case here.\n\nSomething among the ornaments on the mantel catches the light, and gleams momentarily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pistol", "response": "If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Emma gives you a stern glare that quite effectively puts you in your place. Or keeps you there, at least.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the fireplace", "response": "You'll only get yourself covered in soot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about Uncle", "response": "\"Your uncle is a busy man, Hector. He does not wish to be disturbed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about yourself", "response": "You're not so vain that you need Aunt Emma to tell you what a good boy you are; nor do you care to hear about how you should have washed behind your ears this morning, or some such nonsense.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Parlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel is a duelling pistol, half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nBored, you glance up at the mantel and wonder what Aunt Emma could have added to it since your last visit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read Bible", "response": "It would be rude to go meddling with something while someone else is still holding on to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma for Bible", "response": "Ask, and it shall be given you; but that is clearly not the case here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "Emma gives you a stern glare that quite effectively puts you in your place. Or keeps you there, at least.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the armchair", "response": "The armchair is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "\"What?\"\n\nJuly, 1916\n\nGetting the other fellows to join in on this story-telling lark seemed like a good idea at the time. It was better than yet another game of cards, anyway, and it rather took the mind off who is or is not going to be at mess in the morning.\n\nIt's a little terrifying how accustomed you've gotten to this muddy, grimy hell-hole. You could probably find your way back here in the dark, crawling blind through a maze of twisty trenches, all alike.\n\nYou can see Anderson, Jellicoe, Hardy and Macdougal here.\n\nEveryone is staring at Macdougal, who begins to turn a bright red.\n\n\"What on earth is that supposed to mean?\" barks Anderson at the hapless fellow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Macdougal", "response": "Macdougal joined the battalion only a month ago, thanks to the Military Service Act of January last. Just think, when you were his age, Edward VII was just clambering up onto the throne. Anderson probably picked him for his batman out of pity.\n\n\"Magic words,\" says Macdougal, looking to you in appeal. \"It's standard operating procedure in these games, isn't it?\"\n\n\"I've never heard that one before in my life,\" you declare.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "Your uniform was beautifully starched and crisp when you first left England two years ago. You thought you'd be back (for good, not on leave) before the starch had quite softened on your collar. And now look at you.\n\nJellicoe lets out a snort of exasperation. \"Really,\" he drawls. \"Magic. What nonsense. I'm surprised at you, Macdougal, although goodness knows what they're teaching you in school these days.\"\n\n\"I'd suggest we just get on with it, wouldn't you?\" says Hardy, and Anderson nods in agreement.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel is a duelling pistol, half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nGoodness. What on earth was that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the pistol", "response": "\"That used to belong to Captain Davis. I don't normally hold with duelling, but he was a very dear friend and ... you really should get back to your reading, Hector.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the courage", "response": "\"That is a virtue you would do well to cultivate, but there is such a thing as too much of a good thing.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Bible", "response": "(to Aunt Emma)\nAunt Emma has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Bible to you", "response": "Aunt Emma has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sermon to Emma", "response": "Aunt Emma tries to explain the sermon to you. Her rather confused and unintelligible rambling fails to make it any more interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill emma", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one. Also, Uncle Stephen would tan your hide.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat sermon", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sermon in the fireplace", "response": "That's unlikely to get you any closer to the great outdoors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "No! You want to play!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get up", "response": "Emma gives you a stern glare that quite effectively puts you in your place. Or keeps you there, at least.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the kitchen", "response": "Which do you mean, the kitchen fireplace or the kitchen door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shout fire", "response": "(to Aunt Emma)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the sermon", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Emma gives you a stern glare that quite effectively puts you in your place. Or keeps you there, at least.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about Victoria", "response": "\"She's our Queen, and on the whole she has been a far better ruler than some of the monarchs in our history.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "About the author\nInstructions for Play\nHints\nWalkthrough", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "What to do with >\nGetting Started\nRooms and Travel\nInteracting with Other People\nObjects\nControlling the Game\nHow the World is Assembled\nIf You Get Stuck", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "N n n n n n north", "response": "What to do with >\nGetting Started\nRooms and Travel\nInteracting with Other People\nObjects\nControlling the Game\nHow the World is Assembled\nIf You Get Stuck", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mantle", "response": "It's one of those extraordinarily sturdy oak affairs. Every time you visit, it looks as though it could not possibly hold even one more little ornament without collapsing; and yet, every time you visit, it looks as though Aunt Emma has managed to fit one more thing on it.\n\nOn the mantel is a duelling pistol, half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nSunlight glints off a glass unicorn. Now that's more the sort of pointless ornament you'd expect to find in Aunt Emma's collection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the unicorn", "response": "It's a unicorn, made of glass, rearing up on its hind legs. Its horn appears to have been broken off once upon a time, though it's been glued back on since.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the horn", "response": "It's a unicorn, made of glass, rearing up on its hind legs. Its horn appears to have been broken off once upon a time, though it's been glued back on since.\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Aunt about the unicorn", "response": "\"That used to be part of a much larger glass menagerie,\" says Aunt Emma, \"but, well, the less said about that the better.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "You are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the menagerie", "response": "\"There is nothing interesting to tell there,\" says Aunt Emma. \"The other pieces have gotten either lost or broken over the years, and that unicorn is the last of the lot.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma for the unicorn", "response": "Ask, and it shall be given you; but that is clearly not the case here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nYou spot a statuette of a black falcon in the midst of all the clutter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the falcon", "response": "It's a black bird. How boring. Why anyone would want something like this, you do not know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the falcon", "response": "If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the falcon", "response": "\"Captain Davis picked that up years ago when he was in Malta, and brought it back as present.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the malta", "response": "\"I've never been there, but I've heard that it's quite fascinating.\" Aunt Emma recounts a few vague memories of stories told to her years and years ago, when the earth was young.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nHere's something that's not so bad: a painting of a ship sailing into the sunrise. Or sunset. One of the two.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ship", "response": "A rather fantastic-looking ship, with a dragon figurehead, sails over greenish-blue waves, into the sunrise. Or the sunset. It's rather hard to tell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sunset", "response": "Maybe it's the sunrise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dragon", "response": "If you were a ship's captain, you'd want your ship to have a figurehead like that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sunrise", "response": "Maybe it's the sunset.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the ship", "response": "\"It's a little fantastic for my tastes. But I suppose, as your Uncle Stephen says, the fantastic is a reminder of the wonder and majesty of our Lord, and who am I to argue?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ship", "response": "That sort of thing only happens in books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nThere's a saucer leaning against the wall at the back of the mantel. Normally you wouldn't give it a second glance, but there's something odd about the design.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jabberwock", "response": "You thought at first that the fanciful design around the saucer was a pattern of owls, but you see now you were mistaken. It's flowers ... definitely flowers.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowers", "response": "You thought at first that the fanciful design around the saucer was a pattern of flowers, but you see now you were mistaken. It's owls ... definitely owls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the owls", "response": "You thought at first that the fanciful design around the saucer was a pattern of owls, but you see now you were mistaken. It's flowers ... definitely flowers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about flowers", "response": "Which do you mean, the flower saucer or the elaborate flower centrepiece?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Saucer", "response": "\"That's from Wales. There used to be a whole dinner service, but ... well.\" Aunt Emma seems to be blushing slightly, and you guess it must be because she broke all the rest of the dishes and doesn't want to admit it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the wales", "response": "\"Your Uncle and I, when we were children, spent a summer in Wales. I remember....\" Aunt Emma pauses to stare out the window, but before you can seize the opportunity, she turns back to you and continues, \"That's where we met dear old Owen Davis....\"\n\nYou are considering asking her for more about this Captain Davis character, when Aunt Emma sighs. \"Sometimes I wonder what might have been....\" She turns her attention back to her Bible, determined not to say any more. But when you look up a few moments later, she's staring out the window, Bible forgotten.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(First stealthily slipping out of the armchair)\n\nBright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "Which do you mean, the kitchen door, the front door or the closet?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Front", "response": "The front door is large and imposing ... and creaky. Morris says that Aunt Emma makes him keep it that way so she can hear when anyone comes in or out of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the closet", "response": "The hall closet is where things like winter boots and umbrellas are kept. This one is usually a lot tidier than the one back home, but Mother says that's probably because Aunt Emma and Uncle Stephen don't have a nine-year-old to worry about.\n\nCurrently, the closet is closed.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You open the closet, revealing a walking stick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stick", "response": "Uncle Stephen has taken to long walks over the hills, and as a consequence has gotten himself a walking stick that's really more of a staff, it's so long and sturdy. Father says he's really just practicing for such a time as when he finally gets a bishop's crozier, but Mother thinks Father should not make light of such things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the front door", "response": "\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down and put that walking stick away. It's not a toy.\" She hauls you back into your seat, but not before taking away anything that isn't covered in Uncle Stephen's handwriting and returning them.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the front door", "response": "\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Uncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nHalf-hidden among the papers on the desk, you spot a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. His pipe droops unhappily from his lips, stone-cold dead.\n\nA rather thick folder lies on the floor by the desk, having been displaced by some of Uncle Stephen's reference books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelves", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ...\nConfessiones. Ah yes, the works of Augustine of Hippo. Of\ncourse, Uncle Stephen would only have the Latin translations.\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ... The Woman\nIn White. Must be another one of those exhortations to virtue.\nWhy doesn't Uncle Stephen keep any exciting fiction in his library?\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fireplace", "response": "You wouldn't think, to look at it, that this is actually the back side of the much-larger kitchen fireplace, would you? It's so dressed up that it looks like the front side of something fancy. But yes, the two fireplaces share a flue and everything, though the flue itself is really only accessible from the kitchen side.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake stephen", "response": "Uncle Stephen stirs and looks bemusedly at you. \"Eh? I'm awake.\nWhat is it, Hector?\"\n\nUncle Stephen takes a puff on his pipe and notes with some annoyance that it has somehow gone out. He draws a match from a nearby matchbox, relights the pipe, and puffs contentedly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about Davis", "response": "\"Where'd you hear about him? Owen Davis ... Captain Davis, that is ... salt of the earth, but rather a reckless fellow, I'm afraid: always had been, from the time we first met him, in Wales. He died in the Sepoy Mutiny, in India. We were all dreadfully cut up by it.\"\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the folder", "response": "benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine folder", "response": "It's clearly marked \"Old Sermons\", and its contents are as advertised. This probably qualifies it as a weapon of Mass destruction.\n\nIn the brown folder are Uncle Stephen's old sermons.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about Sepoy", "response": "Aunt Emma looks grim when you mention the Sepoy Mutiny. \"Those people were not Christian. And that is all I have to say on the subject.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the christian", "response": "Aunt Emma isn't the best at explaining that sort of thing, and if you get her started, you're never going to get out of here before sundown. And then there'd be no point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mantel", "response": "It's one of those extraordinarily sturdy oak affairs. Every time you visit, it looks as though it could not possibly hold even one more little ornament without collapsing; and yet, every time you visit, it looks as though Aunt Emma has managed to fit one more thing on it.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nThere's a wooden goblet standing at one end of the mantel. It's very plain, but on the other hand you didn't think people made goblets out of wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine goblet", "response": "It's plain and non-descript, even remarkably so; its only point of interest is that it's a goblet made of wood, which seems like a funny sort of material to make goblets out of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the goblet", "response": "\"That is the cup of a carpenter,\" says Aunt Emma. You wait for her to continue, but she doesn't seem to want to say any more than that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nYou notice a white porcelain cat sitting on the mantel, looking down at you with an expression which might be all-too-human if it only had a mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask her about the cat", "response": "(Aunt Emma about the white cat)\n\"Charming, is it not? I always imagine it's saying hello to me when I come into the parlour in the mornings.\" But how can it, when it has no mouth?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nThere's that old locket with the snake on the front. You remember playing with it when you were very small, and now it's just another memory on Aunt Emma's mantel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the locket", "response": "It's rather large, and very ornate. The snake on the front is curved like the letter S, and no-one as far back as anyone remembers has ever been able to open it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about locket", "response": "\"That thing was in the house when we moved in, and we've never been able to track down the owners. Well. I suppose we're duty-bound to hold on to it until its true owner shows up.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nHow odd, there's a gnomon here, the triangular shadow-casting bit from a sundial, but no sundial.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Gnomon", "response": "It's triangular and made of brass, with a screwy end where it's supposed to screw into a sundial somewhere.\n\nSomeone whispers \"Gnomon is an island\" into your ear, but\nwhen you look around, there's no-one there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the gnomon", "response": "\"Your Uncle Stephen picked that up while on holiday in London. I don't claim to understand everything about your uncle, but this gnomon clearly means something to him.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the Wales", "response": "\"Your Uncle and I, when we were children, spent a summer in Wales. I remember....\" Aunt Emma pauses to stare out the window, but before you can seize the opportunity, she turns back to you and continues, \"That's where we met dear old Owen Davis....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about Owen", "response": "Aunt Emma sighs. \"Sometimes I wonder what might have been....\" She turns her attention back to her Bible, determined not to say any more. But when you look up a few moments later, she's staring out the window, Bible forgotten.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light fireplace", "response": "This dangerous act would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light pipe", "response": "It would be rude to go meddling with something while someone else is still holding on to it.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down and put that large matchbox away. It's not a toy.\" She hauls you back into your seat, but not before taking away anything that isn't covered in Uncle Stephen's handwriting and returning them.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the trinity", "response": "Oh no. You do not want to get your uncle started on that. Life is far too short as it is.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the kensington gardens", "response": "Uncle Stephen wouldn't have anything interesting to say about that, surely; at least, nothing that you would find interesting.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about Sepoy", "response": "\"Nasty business ... years ago, now, but I remember reading about it. That sort of thing isn't likely to happen up here in England, thank goodness.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the wales", "response": "\"The family spent a summer there, a long time ago. Your Aunt Emma and I must have been about 17 or 18, at the time.\" It occurs to you that Mother must have been born in that year. You're old enough to know that parents don't like having the children around when the stork makes a delivery, which probably explains why Uncle Stephen and Aunt Emma were sent to Wales to begin with.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about Owen", "response": "Aunt Emma sighs. \"Sometimes I wonder what might have been....\" She turns her attention back to her Bible, determined not to say any more. But when you look up a few moments later, she's staring out the window, Bible forgotten.\n\n\"Now hold it right there...!\"\n\nJuly, 1916\n\nGetting the other fellows to join in on this story-telling lark seemed like a good idea at the time. It was better than yet another game of cards, anyway, and it rather took the mind off who is or is not going to be at mess in the morning.\n\nIt's a little terrifying how accustomed you've gotten to this muddy, grimy hell-hole. You could probably find your way back here in the dark, crawling blind through a maze of twisty trenches, all alike.\n\nAnderson was doodling on an old letter of recommendation earlier, and seems to have forgotten about it.\n\nYou can also see Anderson, Jellicoe, Hardy and Macdougal here.\n\nAnderson shakes his head. \"I can't believe she'd fall for that a third time. What kind of a weak-minded aunt did you have, Conrad?\"\n\n\"You're the ones who can't figure it out,\" you reply. \"So she'll keep falling for the same stunt until you do.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Hector", "response": "Your uniform was beautifully starched and crisp when you first left England two years ago. You thought you'd be back (for good, not on leave) before the starch had quite softened on your collar. And now look at you.\n\n\"Major Conrad just wants us to try again,\" says Jellicoe, with an air of pouring oil over troubled waters. \"So why don't we go and do that?\"\n\n\"We need a better strategy,\" Hardy muses, drawing the other men to him. \"Look, we've got only so long before she stops mooning over ancient history, and I'm pretty sure the major doesn't mean for the trick to happen more than once. What can we do with those few minutes?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask hardy about the outdoors", "response": "The men can figure this out on their own.\n\nMacdougal says, \"there's bound to be something in one of the other rooms that will convince her to leave us alone.\"\n\n\"It can't be that simple,\" snorts Anderson in reply.\n\n\"Anyway we can just keep trying until we get it right, right?\" Hardy looks around the table, and the others nod. \"So, let's get on with this.\"\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.\n\nGoodness. Where did that dream come from?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "(First stealthily slipping out of the armchair)\n\nThe dining room is a pleasant, sunny room, with a round dining table just large enough for six. A huge bay window looks out over the lawn towards the cathedral: Uncle Stephen's morning reminder of who he is and why he's here. Aunt Emma's parlour is back to the south, and the hall is to the southeast. The butler's door into the kitchen is to the east.\n\nOn the dining table is an elaborate flower centrepiece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the centerpiece", "response": "Aunt Emma believes in \"civilised dining\", which is why she insists on maintaining a pretty centrepiece on the dining table at all times. This centrepiece is beginning to get a little old and dry. The flowers and leaves stick out all over like bristles on a brush, and the ribbons holding it together are looking droopy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ribbons", "response": "This centrepiece is beginning to get a little old and dry. The flowers and leaves stick out all over like bristles on a brush, and the ribbons holding it together are looking droopy.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down and put that elaborate flower centrepiece away. It's not a toy.\" She hauls you back into your seat, but not before taking away anything that isn't covered in Uncle Stephen's handwriting and returning them.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(First stealthily slipping out of the armchair)\n\nThe dining room is a pleasant, sunny room, with a round dining table just large enough for six. A huge bay window looks out over the lawn towards the cathedral: Uncle Stephen's morning reminder of who he is and why he's here. Aunt Emma's parlour is back to the south, and the hall is to the southeast. The butler's door into the kitchen is to the east.\n\nOn the dining table is an elaborate flower centrepiece.\n\nTaken.\n\nBright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nUncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nHalf-hidden among the papers on the desk, you spot a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. His pipe droops unhappily from his lips, stone-cold dead.\n\nA rather thick folder lies on the floor by the desk, having been displaced by some of Uncle Stephen's reference books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light centerpiece", "response": "This dangerous act would achieve little.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down and put that elaborate flower centrepiece away. It's not a toy.\" She hauls you back into your seat, but not before taking away anything that isn't covered in Uncle Stephen's handwriting and returning them.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the butler's door)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "(first opening the kitchen door)\nIt seems to be locked.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nAn armchair, which years of visits have accustomed you to thinking of as \"your\" armchair, is positioned near the fireplace.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, staring off into the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the centerpiece to Emma", "response": "Aunt Emma is distractedly gazing out the window. Surely you have better things to do than to draw her attention back to the task of keeping you in your place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the centerpiece", "response": "Dropped.\n\nAunt Emma sighs and finally looks around. When she sees you out of your seat, she frowns and rises, and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Parlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nYou can also see an elaborate flower centrepiece here.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(First stealthily slipping out of the armchair)\n\nBright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nUncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nHalf-hidden among the papers on the desk, you spot a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. His pipe droops unhappily from his lips, stone-cold dead.\n\nA rather thick folder lies on the floor by the desk, having been displaced by some of Uncle Stephen's reference books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "brown folder: Taken.\nlarge matchbox: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nAn armchair, which years of visits have accustomed you to thinking of as \"your\" armchair, is positioned near the fireplace.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, staring off into the distance.\n\nYou can also see an elaborate flower centrepiece here.\n\nAunt Emma sighs and finally looks around. When she sees you out of your seat, she frowns and rises, but stops in surprise when she sees the folder of Uncle Stephen's old sermons in your hands. \"Oh!\" she says. \"Oh ... are those your Uncle Stephen's old sermons? So that's what you were after! You should have just said so. I see I should have trusted you enough to know you could not possibly mean any mischief when you leave your seat.\"\n\nShe actually smiles and pats you on the head. On the bright side, it looks as though she doesn't mind you wandering around any more, since she makes no further attempt to usher you into your chair. She does, however, firmly advise you to return the large matchbox to its rightful place, and ushers you out into the Hall to do so.\n\nBright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the front door", "response": "As you approach the front door, you hear Aunt Emma call out to you, \"Hector, you're not planning on leaving the house, are you? Please don't.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Uncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. His pipe droops unhappily from his lips, stone-cold dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake stephen", "response": "Uncle Stephen stirs and looks bemusedly at you. \"Eh? I'm awake.\nWhat is it, Hector?\"\n\nUncle Stephen takes a puff on his pipe and notes with some annoyance that it has somehow gone out. He reaches for his trusty matchbox and notes with even more annoyance that it has somehow gone missing. Sighing, he stands up and begins looking around.\n\nUncle Stephen's sharp eyes spot the matchbox in your possession.\n\"Give it here, Hector,\" he says sternly, and you can practically hear him thinking \"Thou shalt not steal\" at you, and you have no choice but to hand over the matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen relights his pipe and settles back behind his mound of boring literature. He'll probably be asleep again in no time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the pipe", "response": "Uncle Stephen just smiles and puffs contentedly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about Davis", "response": "\"Where'd you hear about him? Owen Davis ... Captain Davis, that is ... salt of the earth, but rather a reckless fellow, I'm afraid: always had been, from the time we first met him, in Wales. He died in the Sepoy Mutiny, in India. We were all dreadfully cut up by it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the wales", "response": "\"The family spent a summer there, a long time ago. Your Aunt Emma and I must have been about 17 or 18, at the time.\" Uncle Stephen looks a little lost in the memory, and eventually descends into pointless talk about valleys and old houses and patterned dinner services.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about Mutiny", "response": "\"Nasty business ... years ago, now, but I remember reading about it. That sort of thing isn't likely to happen up here in England, thank goodness.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the india", "response": "\"Hm? Fascinating place, I'm sure, but I would rather leave missionary work to those with a calling to it. Otherwise, it's rather too much trouble....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the pistol", "response": "Uncle Stephen wouldn't have anything interesting to say about that, surely; at least, nothing that you would find interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the stick", "response": "\"A walking stick is a rather useful item, I must say. I simply could not tell you the number of times I've been glad of having a nice, stout staff on hand while walking across the downs.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about Emma", "response": "\"You should ask her yourself,\" says Uncle Stephen vaguely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Uncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nHalf-hidden among the papers on the desk, you spot a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. White smoke curls from the bowl of his pipe.\n\nThe last of the smoke from Uncle Stephen's pipe dissipates into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the smoke", "response": "It curls lazily from the bowl of the pipe and dissipates into the air, smelling up the place something awful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell it", "response": "It smells awful, and for some unknown reason it always makes you feel hungry. The less you have to do with it, the better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the stick to Stephen", "response": "\"A walking stick is a rather useful item, I must say. I simply could not tell you the number of times I've been glad of having a nice, stout staff on hand while walking across the downs.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the pipe", "response": "Uncle Stephen just smiles and puffs contentedly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the tobacco", "response": "Uncle Stephen wouldn't have anything interesting to say about that, surely; at least, nothing that you would find interesting.\n\nUncle Stephen begins to nod drowsily. In a few moments, his pipe droops down onto his chest and he lets out a tiny little snore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen for the pipe", "response": "Ask, and it shall be given you; but that is clearly not the case here.\n\nThe last of the smoke from Uncle Stephen's pipe dissipates into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the painting", "response": "It's a brilliant painting of a town beside the sea, with the sun shining on whitewashed houses and the bluest sky you ever did see. Uncle Stephen always smiles and says he's seen better when you ask him about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about it", "response": "\"I'm rather fond of it, even if your Aunt Emma isn't.\" Uncle Stephen smiles wistfully. \"Admittedly, it's not the artist's best work, but it brings back memories, you see.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the memories", "response": "Uncle Stephen looks a little wistful. \"You know, the late summer of 1886 found me on the continent....\" But you quickly stop him before he gets carried away.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Uncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nHalf-hidden among the papers on the desk, you spot a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen is reading a really ancient-looking manuscript while making notes in another sheaf of papers. White smoke curls from the bowl of his pipe.\n\nUncle Stephen begins to nod drowsily. In a few moments, his pipe droops down onto his chest and he lets out a tiny little snore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at manuscript", "response": "It's one of those ancient, dusty artefacts that Uncle Stephen occasionally gets out of the rare books department at the British Museum. It's all written in funny squiggles that no-one can read.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the manuscript", "response": "Uncle Stephen stirs and looks bemusedly at you. \"Eh? I'm awake.\nWhat is it, Hector?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the manuscript", "response": "\"It's quite an interesting, apocryphal document, I must say. I'll let you read it when I'm done, if you're good.\" Right. Better misbehave before it's too late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the papers", "response": "It looks like a translation of some sort, full of crossed-out bits and notes about notes about other notes. As far as you can tell, it's about some servant's account of the water-into-wine miracle from the Bible, although why Uncle Stephen is working on translating that when he can just read it in any old Bible, you do not know.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Uncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nHalf-hidden among the papers on the desk, you spot a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen is reading a really ancient-looking manuscript while making notes in another sheaf of papers. White smoke curls from the bowl of his pipe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "Uncle Stephen's desk is covered with all sorts of papers. There's a huge dictionary that Uncle Stephen keeps flipping through, and things in languages that you've never even heard of before. Uncle Stephen is sitting right up close to the desk, blocking its only drawer.\n\nOn the desk is a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen begins to nod drowsily. In a few moments, his pipe droops down onto his chest and he lets out a tiny little snore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dictionary", "response": "The dictionary on Uncle Stephen's desk is actually some sort of book about Hebrew grammar. You have enough trouble with Latin and French; Father says he wants to get you started on Greek next year, which sounds like the end of the world as you know it; Hebrew looks like it goes beyond even Greek, Latin and French all put together in terms of things Man was not meant to know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the drawer", "response": "You know there's a drawer in the desk, but Uncle Stephen is sitting right up against it and blocking it from view.\n\nThe last of the smoke from Uncle Stephen's pipe dissipates into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ... Plato's Republic. No surprise there....\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the books", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ... Les Misérables. No. You are not reading French outside of lessons,\nand that is final.\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the books", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ... The Sign\nOf Four. Something about the four gospels, obviously. You'd\nkill to have a decent mystery novel right about now.\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ... King Solomon's Mines. This is either an archaeological report, or\nanother dry examination of ancient Biblical history. Either way, it's probably not very interesting.\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ... The\nHudson's Bay Company. Finally, some R.M. Ballantyne! One that\nyou've already read, but you're not fussy. You are disappointed, however, to discover that this is in fact a prospectus from the real Hudson's Bay Company, full of deadly-dull talk about profits and shares.\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the books", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ... The\nHudson's Bay Company. Another copy of the prospectus you'd\npulled out before, in a different cover. You're not going to be fooled again, though; you don't even bother opening the ruddy thing.\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the books", "response": "\"One can never have too many books, I always say.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the drawer", "response": "Uncle Stephen wouldn't have anything interesting to say about that, surely; at least, nothing that you would find interesting.\n\nUncle Stephen begins to nod drowsily. In a few moments, his pipe droops down onto his chest and he lets out a tiny little snore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn papers", "response": "This dangerous act would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na walking stick\na brown folder\nUncle Stephen's old sermons\n\nThe last of the smoke from Uncle Stephen's pipe dissipates into the air.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Uncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nHalf-hidden among the papers on the desk, you spot a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. His pipe droops unhappily from his lips, stone-cold dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Picking out a random book from the shelves, you find ... De\nDoctrina Christiana. Ah yes, the works of Augustine of Hippo.\nOf course, Uncle Stephen would only have the Latin translations.\n\nYou return the book to the shelves, though not perhaps in quite the same precise location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "It's a large box of matches that Uncle Stephen keeps handy, for lighting his pipe. He goes through an awful lot of them, no-one knows why.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light match", "response": "Uncle Stephen would skin you alive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take match", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na large matchbox\na walking stick\na brown folder\nUncle Stephen's old sermons", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fireplace", "response": "You wouldn't think, to look at it, that this is actually the back side of the much-larger kitchen fireplace, would you? It's so dressed up that it looks like the front side of something fancy. But yes, the two fireplaces share a flue and everything, though the flue itself is really only accessible from the kitchen side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in the fireplace", "response": "large matchbox: That's unlikely to get you any closer to the great outdoors.\nwalking stick: That's unlikely to get you any closer to the great outdoors.\nbrown folder: That's unlikely to get you any closer to the great outdoors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nThe hall closet door is half-open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nAn armchair, which years of visits have accustomed you to thinking of as \"your\" armchair, is positioned near the fireplace.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nYou can also see an elaborate flower centrepiece here.\n\nAunt Emma spots the walking stick in your possession. \"Hector Percival Conrad! What are you doing with your Uncle Stephen's walking stick? Put it back at once!\"\n\nShe practically bullies you out into the hall on the way to returning everything to its rightful place.\n\nBright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nThe hall closet door is half-open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "(the brown folder)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nAn armchair, which years of visits have accustomed you to thinking of as \"your\" armchair, is positioned near the fireplace.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nYou can also see an elaborate flower centrepiece here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "elaborate flower centrepiece: Taken.\ndisplaced gnomon: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\nsnake locket: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\nwhite cat: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\nwooden goblet: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\nflower saucer: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\nship painting: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\nblack falcon: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\nglass unicorn: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\nduelling pistol: If you so much as nudged anything there, you risk having the whole lot come avalanching down upon your head. You're too young to die.\n\nAunt Emma spots the big, brushy centrepiece in your hands. \"Hector Percival Conrad! That belongs in the dining room ... you'll get dry leaves and petals all over the place and Janet isn't around to sweep up after you. Put that back right now!\"\n\nShe practically bullies you out into the hall on the way to returning the stupid thing to its rightful place.\n\nBright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nYou can see a brown folder (in which are Uncle Stephen's old sermons) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Uncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nHalf-hidden among the papers on the desk, you spot a large matchbox.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. White smoke curls from the bowl of his pipe.\n\nThe last of the smoke from Uncle Stephen's pipe dissipates into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nYou can see a brown folder (in which are Uncle Stephen's old sermons) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the front door", "response": "The front door is large and imposing ... and creaky. Morris says that Aunt Emma makes him keep it that way so she can hear when anyone comes in or out of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "brown folder: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The dining room is a pleasant, sunny room, with a round dining table just large enough for six. A huge bay window looks out over the lawn towards the cathedral: Uncle Stephen's morning reminder of who he is and why he's here. Aunt Emma's parlour is back to the south, and the hall is to the southeast. The butler's door into the kitchen is to the east.\n\nOn the dining table is an elaborate flower centrepiece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nan elaborate flower centrepiece\na large matchbox\na brown folder\nUncle Stephen's old sermons", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nUncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. His pipe droops unhappily from his lips, stone-cold dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sermons", "response": "Uncle Stephen's old sermons. You've been forced to read a couple of them, unfortunately, and the fact that there are more just makes your head want to implode.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sermons in the fireplace", "response": "That's unlikely to get you any closer to the great outdoors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the fireplace", "response": "You'll only get yourself covered in soot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sermons to Uncle", "response": "(first taking Uncle Stephen's old sermons)\nYou're not feeling ready for sleep just yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nan elaborate flower centrepiece\na large matchbox\na brown folder\nUncle Stephen's old sermons", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all but the folder", "response": "elaborate flower centrepiece: Dropped.\nlarge matchbox: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nAn armchair, which years of visits have accustomed you to thinking of as \"your\" armchair, is positioned near the fireplace.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sermons to Emma", "response": "Aunt Emma looks in the folder and begins scanning the topmost sermon. A few pages later, she stops and begins to explain the whole thing to you. While she's nowhere near as stuffy as Uncle Stephen, she's also nowhere near as organised: if you'd actually been listening, you might have come out more confused than when you went in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the sermons", "response": "No. No no no. Your sanity would never survive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search it", "response": "In the brown folder are Uncle Stephen's old sermons.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nYou can see a large matchbox and an elaborate flower centrepiece here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You open the closet, revealing a walking stick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the matchbox in the closet", "response": "(first taking the large matchbox)\n\nYou put the large matchbox into the closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close closet", "response": "You close the closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Uncle Stephen spends most of his time shut up in here, reading the most boring books imaginable. One whole wall is lined with shelves full of these books, and then there's the desk with even more books stacked on it. The only decent things you can see here are the fireplace, which is quite grand, and a marvellous painting of the seaside. The hall is back to the west.\n\nUncle Stephen seems to have nodded off in his chair. His pipe droops unhappily from his lips, stone-cold dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake stephen", "response": "Uncle Stephen stirs and looks bemusedly at you. \"Eh? I'm awake.\nWhat is it, Hector?\"\n\nUncle Stephen takes a puff on his pipe and notes with some annoyance that it has somehow gone out. He reaches for his trusty matchbox and notes with even more annoyance that it has somehow gone missing. Sighing, he stands up and begins looking around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Uncle Stephen motions you vaguely away from the desk drawer. It's clearly private, and he would appreciate it if you stayed out of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the matchbox", "response": "\"Rather a necessary evil, I would say. Some people still call them lucifers, so it's rather like letting the devil into your own house ... but do you know, the actual lucifers fell out of fashion when I was a boy, after a more reliable sort of match was invented. There's a lesson right there, my boy, if you'll take note of it.\"\n\nUncle Stephen shakes his head and wanders out into the Hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "You open the drawer, revealing a letter crammed in among an assortment of other junk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the letter", "response": "Uncle Stephen is wandering the house and could walk in on you any minute. You don't have time to give this a proper read, though you can see already that it's more interesting than anything this house has to offer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the drawer", "response": "You close the drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na letter\na brown folder\nUncle Stephen's old sermons", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the letter in the folder", "response": "You put the letter into the brown folder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the letter in the folder", "response": "(first taking the letter)\n\nYou put the letter into the brown folder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat letter", "response": "(first taking the letter)\nThat's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nUncle Stephen is casting about for his missing matchbox. His pipe droops unhappily from his lips, stone-cold dead.\n\nYou can also see an elaborate flower centrepiece here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You open the closet, revealing a large matchbox and a walking stick.\n\nUncle Stephen catches sight of the matchbox sitting where you'd left it, and happily retrieves it. Thankfully, he doesn't seem too interested in wondering how it got there in the first place.\n\nUncle Stephen returns to his study.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the letter", "response": "Let's see. It's from a Mr John Austin, thanking your Uncle Stephen for something ... boring stuff, boring stuff ... well. It looks as though Uncle Stephen has been sending money regularly to this Mr Austin, but why? You separate the letter out into its three pages, and regard each one individually....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nthree pages of a scandalous letter\na brown folder\nUncle Stephen's old sermons", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the letter", "response": "Which do you mean, the first page, the second page or the third page?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "First", "response": "Mr John Austin sends his regards ... lovely weather ... good health ... first child ... all very standard fare, nothing you wouldn't expect to find in a hundred other letters....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the second page", "response": "Thanks for the assistance ... goodness, here's an account of all sorts of money that Uncle Stephen has been sending to this Austin fellow over the past year. Mr Austin sounds as though he should have been a bank clerk, but why on earth would Uncle Stephen be sending him money?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the third letter", "response": "Here's where Mr Austin talks about his wife, which sounds terribly boring. But the way this page is creased, it looks as though Uncle Stephen's been reading and re-reading it over and over, for some odd reason.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nAn armchair, which years of visits have accustomed you to thinking of as \"your\" armchair, is positioned near the fireplace.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "First", "response": "Aunt Emma would never even look at that if you were to present it to her directly. You'll need a more subtle approach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "All", "response": "Sorry, you can only have one item here. Which exactly?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put first in the folder", "response": "You put the first page into the brown folder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put second in the folder", "response": "You put the second page into the brown folder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put third in the folder", "response": "You put the third page into the brown folder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the folder to Emma", "response": "Aunt Emma looks in the folder and begins scanning the topmost sermon. Flipping through the collected sermons, she happens quite by chance upon the first page of that letter to Uncle Stephen. She reads the first few lines, then stops, carefully extracts the offending pages, and hands them to you. \"This doesn't belong in here with your uncle's sermons, Hector; it looks like a private letter, probably from a parishioner. I don't know how it got mixed in with the old sermons, but you had better return it to him.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the folder to Emma", "response": "Aunt Emma looks in the folder and begins scanning the topmost sermon. Flipping through the collected sermons, she happens quite by chance upon the third page of that letter to Uncle Stephen. She reads the first few lines, then stops, carefully extracts the offending page, and hands it to you. \"This doesn't belong in here with your uncle's sermons, Hector; it looks like a private letter, probably from a parishioner. I don't know how it got mixed in with the old sermons, but you had better return it to him.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the folder to Emma", "response": "Aunt Emma looks in the folder and begins scanning the topmost sermon. Flipping through the collected sermons, she happens upon the second page of that letter to Uncle Stephen, the one that you'd left in there. She reads the first few lines, stops, then reads it again. Clearly, the information about Uncle Stephen's money management has caught her attention, and she is not at all happy about it. \"Excuse me, Hector,\" she says, \"but I really must speak to your uncle about something.\"\n\nAunt Emma slips something between the pages of her Bible to mark her place, then takes the folder from you and stalks off. She's left her Bible behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The dining room is a pleasant, sunny room, with a round dining table just large enough for six. A huge bay window looks out over the lawn towards the cathedral: Uncle Stephen's morning reminder of who he is and why he's here. Aunt Emma's parlour is back to the south, and the hall is to the southeast. The butler's door into the kitchen is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the butler's door)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the butler's door)\nYou unlock the butler's door with the master key.\n\nThis is Cookie's domain, the place where all the baking and roasting and cooking gets done. You're generally not allowed in here, although once, ages ago, Uncle Stephen gave you special permission to come in and watch a chimney sweep have a go at the kitchen fireplace.\n\nThe main part of the house is back to the southwest, while a very steep and narrow staircase goes up and down. There's also the butler's door into the dining room, the west.\n\nAn old photograph is framed over the kitchen fireplace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fireplace", "response": "The kitchen fireplace is almost big enough to stand in. It's back-to-back with the fireplace in Uncle Stephen's study, and shares a flue. You remember this from the time Uncle Stephen let you watch the sweep clean out the chimney.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the photo", "response": "A small unit of soldiers poses in front of an elephant. You recognise a much-younger Morris as one of the soldiers; the others are strangers, though one looks vaguely familiar for reasons you can't quite determine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flue", "response": "There's the flue, which is shared with Uncle Stephen's study. You remember the sweep saying that this was highly irregular, although maybe he was just miffed that he had one less chimney to clean and be paid for. It's currently closed, since there's no reason to light a fire just yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open", "response": "What do you want to open?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Flue", "response": "You open the flue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the flue", "response": "Through the open flue, you can hear Uncle Stephen and Aunt Emma speaking rather animatedly in the study. It's a pity they never raise their voices, but you can make out a few words: \"moral obligation\" ... \"finally understood\" ... \"Owen\" ... Mother's name comes up rather more often than one might expect, which probably means you're going to be in so much trouble when she gets back from Oxford.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "Which do you mean, the butler's door or the kitchen door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Butler'S", "response": "First you'll have to close the butler's door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close it", "response": "You close the butler's door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock it", "response": "You lock the butler's door.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is Cookie's domain, the place where all the baking and roasting and cooking gets done. You're generally not allowed in here, although once, ages ago, Uncle Stephen gave you special permission to come in and watch a chimney sweep have a go at the kitchen fireplace.\n\nThe main part of the house is back to the southwest, while a very steep and narrow staircase goes up and down. There's also the butler's door into the dining room, the west.\n\nAn old photograph is framed over the kitchen fireplace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Morris", "response": "That is definitely Morris, Uncle Stephen's faithful gardener and general handyman, in the photograph. He looks a lot younger there than you've ever known him, and considerably less grizzled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the photograph", "response": "A small unit of soldiers poses in front of an elephant. You recognise a much-younger Morris as one of the soldiers; the others are strangers, though one looks vaguely familiar for reasons you can't quite determine.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Only servants are allowed down there. Even Aunt Emma would hesitate to trespass that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "That way is the secret passages to all the rooms that you could just as easily get to from the main stairs, not that you want to. There's no point going that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the photograph", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "(first opening the kitchen door)\nYou unlock the kitchen door with the master key.\n\nBright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nIt sounds as though Aunt Emma is having something of an argument with Uncle Stephen in the study.\n\nThe hall closet door is half-open, revealing a walking stick.\n\nYou can see an elaborate flower centrepiece here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nAn armchair, which years of visits have accustomed you to thinking of as \"your\" armchair, is positioned near the fireplace.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Bright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nIt sounds as though Aunt Emma is having something of an argument with Uncle Stephen in the study.\n\nThe hall closet door is half-open.\n\nYou can see an elaborate flower centrepiece here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stairs", "response": "The stairs go up to the first floor of the house. There's nothing up there but bedrooms and bathrooms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Aunt Emma and Uncle Stephen are having a very private conversation in there. Better keep your distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na walking stick\nthe master key\na Bible\ntwo pages of a scandalous letter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "elaborate flower centrepiece: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "This is Cookie's domain, the place where all the baking and roasting and cooking gets done. You're generally not allowed in here, although once, ages ago, Uncle Stephen gave you special permission to come in and watch a chimney sweep have a go at the kitchen fireplace.\n\nThe main part of the house is back to the southwest, while a very steep and narrow staircase goes up and down. There's also the butler's door into the dining room, the west.\n\nAn old photograph is framed over the kitchen fireplace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flue", "response": "There's the flue, which is shared with Uncle Stephen's study. You remember the sweep saying that this was highly irregular, although maybe he was just miffed that he had one less chimney to clean and be paid for. It's currently open, and if you listen hard you can hear Uncle Stephen and Aunt Emma talking in the study.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the fireplace", "response": "You'll only get yourself covered in soot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan elaborate flower centrepiece\na walking stick\nthe master key\na Bible\ntwo pages of a scandalous letter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stick", "response": "Uncle Stephen has taken to long walks over the hills, and as a consequence has gotten himself a walking stick that's really more of a staff, it's so long and sturdy. Father says he's really just practicing for such a time as when he finally gets a bishop's crozier, but Mother thinks Father should not make light of such things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read Bible", "response": "Aunt Emma seems to have been somewhere in the middle of the Acts of the Apostles: \"... And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(first opening the butler's door)\nYou unlock the butler's door with the master key.\n\nThe dining room is a pleasant, sunny room, with a round dining table just large enough for six. A huge bay window looks out over the lawn towards the cathedral: Uncle Stephen's morning reminder of who he is and why he's here. Aunt Emma's parlour is back to the south, and the hall is to the southeast. The butler's door into the kitchen is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "From here, you can see the lawn and the woods and the distant steeple of St Swithin's. The sun is shining and you know that the woods are just bursting with interesting things to discover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the swithin'S", "response": "That's Uncle Stephen's parish. You were there just this morning, trying to stay awake through Uncle Stephen's sermon.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Only servants are allowed down there. Even Aunt Emma would hesitate to trespass that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the flue", "response": "Through the open flue, you can hear Uncle Stephen and Aunt Emma speaking rather animatedly in the study. It's a pity they never raise their voices, but you can make out a few words: \"moral obligation\" ... \"finally understood\" ... \"Owen\" ... Mother's name comes up rather more often than one might expect, which probably means you're going to be in so much trouble when she gets back from Oxford.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chimney", "response": "I only understood you as far as wanting to hit the flue.\n\nThere's the flue, which is shared with Uncle Stephen's study. You remember the sweep saying that this was highly irregular, although maybe he was just miffed that he had one less chimney to clean and be paid for. It's currently open, and if you listen hard you can hear Uncle Stephen and Aunt Emma talking in the study.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lawn", "response": "It's green, and it looks freshly mown.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "Only servants are allowed down there. Even Aunt Emma would hesitate to trespass that way.\n\n\"What exactly is your interest in the backstairs, any road?\"\n\nJuly, 1916\n\nGetting the other fellows to join in on this story-telling lark seemed like a good idea at the time. It was better than yet another game of cards, anyway, and it rather took the mind off who is or is not going to be at mess in the morning.\n\nIt's a little terrifying how accustomed you've gotten to this muddy, grimy hell-hole. You could probably find your way back here in the dark, crawling blind through a maze of twisty trenches, all alike.\n\nYou can see Anderson, Jellicoe, Hardy and Macdougal here.\n\nHardy blinks at Anderson's question. \"Well, sir, what I was thinking was, I thought perhaps we could get out by the tradesman's door.\"\n\n\"There isn't a tradesman's door,\" you say quickly.\n\n\"No tradesman's door? How do the servants get in and out, then?\nWhere does the butcher deliver? Not the front door, surely?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Jellicoe", "response": "Jellicoe's father was Uncle Stephen's curate back around '95. You didn't care much for him at the time, but two years of hell can make brothers out of anyone.\n\n\"Hardy's right,\" says Anderson slowly, \"there ought to be a tradesman's door. Never would have occurred to me. Never been below-stairs, or thought about what goes on there.\"\n\nMacdougal shrugs. \"I've spent all my life in flats, myself. Setup's a little bit different.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine hardy", "response": "Resourceful chap, Hardy. Not someone you'd care to rub elbows with in peacetime, but his ... acquisitions make life in the trenches just a touch more bearable. Which is why you've taken him as your batman. Hope he lasts.\n\nJellicoe looks from you to the others and back. \"There's a reason, surely, that you didn't poke around more? Or perhaps the door was locked, or blocked somehow, or....\"\n\n\"Right, right,\" you say, \"of course there was. I quite forgot.\nMorris was there....\"\n\nThis is Cookie's domain, the place where all the baking and roasting and cooking gets done. You're generally not allowed in here, although once, ages ago, Uncle Stephen gave you special permission to come in and watch a chimney sweep have a go at the kitchen fireplace.\n\nThe main part of the house is back to the southwest, while a very steep and narrow staircase goes up and down. There's also the butler's door into the dining room, the west.\n\nDeep snoring rumbles up from the servant's stair.\n\nAn old photograph is framed over the kitchen fireplace.\n\nGoodness. What was that all about?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Crumbs, it looks like Morris is back, propped right up against the tradesman's door with a bottle of the demon drink. He'll give you a good whipping for trespassing if he catches you here, so you'd best keep your distance. Besides, the alcohol fumes coming off him would do you in for sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the snoring", "response": "It sounds as though Morris is back, and dead drunk. You don't want to get too close to him when he's like this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan elaborate poppy centrepiece\na walking stick\nthe master key\na Bible\ntwo pages of a scandalous letter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the poppy", "response": "This centrepiece is beginning to get a little old and dry. Poppies and leaves stick out all over like bristles on a brush, and the ribbons holding it together are looking droopy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the poppy", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell the poppy", "response": "There's still the very faint smell of the fields and hedgerows about the poppies, but otherwise it's mostly just dry grass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the flowers to stick", "response": "You firmly affix the centrepiece to the head of the walking stick, using as many of its own ribbons as you can get your hands on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na walking stick (with flower centrepiece attached)\nthe master key\na Bible\ntwo pages of a scandalous letter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stick", "response": "Uncle Stephen has taken to long walks over the hills, and as a consequence has gotten himself a walking stick that's really more of a staff, it's so long and sturdy. There's a bristly flower centrepiece attached to one end, like the head of a brush, which makes it look exceedingly silly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sweep fireplace", "response": "You thrust the flowery end of the walking stick up into the flue, and are rewarded with a sudden explosion of soot ... and the sounds of Aunt Emma and Uncle Stephen's consternation at a corresponding explosion of soot on the other side. Not long after, you hear them both hurrying up the stairs to get themselves cleaned off and changed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "With Aunt Emma and Uncle Stephen otherwise occupied, you quickly open the front door (it creaks like the blazes) and slip outside into the warm, summer sunshine. You're going to be in a world of trouble when you get back, but for the moment there is nothing but you, the summer, and the wonders of God's green earth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nAn armchair, which years of visits have accustomed you to thinking of as \"your\" armchair, is positioned near the fireplace.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, staring off into the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fuck", "response": "If anyone heard you, they'd want to know where you learned such terrible language. And then Morris would be in terrible trouble, and you don't want that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drat", "response": "Quite.\n\nAunt Emma sighs and finally looks around. When she sees you out of your seat, she frowns and rises, and grabs you by the ear. \"What have you been up to, Hector? It's the Lord's day: do try to behave yourself this one day of the week! Now please, sit down.\" She hauls you back into your seat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Damn", "response": "You shouldn't say such things unless you mean it. And you should never mean such things, ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the army", "response": "\"A uniform adds a good deal of dash to a character, I'm sure, and the discipline is much to be recommended.\" Aunt Emma pauses for just a little too long before going on. \"All the same, I cannot say I am at all pleased with the reasons for armies to exist in the first\nplace. However you look at it, war is an absolutely dreadful business.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the army", "response": "\"A uniform adds a good deal of dash to a character, I'm sure, and the discipline is much to be recommended.\" Aunt Emma pauses for just a little too long before going on. \"All the same, I cannot say I am at all pleased with the reasons for armies to exist in the first\nplace. However you look at it, war is an absolutely dreadful business.\"\n\n\"Oh for pity's sake...!\"\n\nJuly, 1916\n\nGetting the other fellows to join in on this story-telling lark seemed like a good idea at the time. It was better than yet another game of cards, anyway, and it rather took the mind off who is or is not going to be at mess in the morning.\n\nIt's a little terrifying how accustomed you've gotten to this muddy, grimy hell-hole. You could probably find your way back here in the dark, crawling blind through a maze of twisty trenches, all alike.\n\nAnderson was doodling on an old letter of recommendation earlier, and seems to have forgotten about it.\n\nYou can also see Anderson, Jellicoe, Hardy and Macdougal here.\n\nAnderson glares at his batman. \"How many times are you going to ask her about that, Macdougal?\"\n\n\"I think Macdougal just likes hearing the Major talk about how war is such a dreadful business,\" says Hardy with a look of amusement.\n\n\"Well, it's getting tiresome,\" snaps Anderson, still glaring at poor Macdougal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill anderson", "response": "Violence is the answer to a lot of things, but this isn't one of them.\n\n\"It's clear she's got nothing else to say on the subject,\" reasons Jellicoe, \"and anyway the story isn't about war or the army or anything like that, is it?\"\n\nYou shake your head in agreement. This was supposed to be a diversion into a more innocent time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "MacDougal flashes you a knowing smile, but says nothing.\n\nMacdougal has the grace to look sheepish. \"Sorry, sir,\" he mumbles. \"I won't do it again.\"\n\n\"Good. Let's move on.\"\n\n\"Agreed.\"\n\nParlour (in the armchair)\nThe parlour is Aunt Emma's domain, and is wonderfully comfortable and cosy on cold winter nights, especially when there's a fire going in the fireplace. On warm summer afternoons, however, it gets stiflingly claustrophobic.\n\nYou are ensconced in an armchair near the fireplace. Escape seems most likely either east into the hall or north into the dining room.\n\nOn the mantel are a flower saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.\n\nFrom her portrait above the fireplace mantel, Queen Victoria gazes benignly down on the room.\n\nAunt Emma sits by the window, dutifully reading her Bible.\n\nIn the armchair you can see Uncle Stephen's latest sermon.\n\nGoodness. What just happened there?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the army", "response": "\"It is certainly a respectable career choice, Macdougal.\" For some reason you can't quite name, you feel reluctant to press the issue further. Nor are you sure why she just called you \"Macdougal\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the army", "response": "\"It is certainly a respectable career choice, Hector.\" For some reason you can't quite name, you feel reluctant to press the issue further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the kitty", "response": "A white porcelain cat, with a red bow perched on one side of its head. Rather disturbingly, it has no mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gnomon", "response": "It's triangular and made of brass, with a screwy end where it's supposed to screw into a sundial somewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fidget", "response": "\"Don't fidget, Hector,\" says Aunt Emma. \"It's unbecoming.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the llew", "response": "Uncle Stephen wouldn't have anything interesting to say about that, surely; at least, nothing that you would find interesting.\n\n\"Hector...!\"\n\nCrumbs! Aunt Emma bears down on you like the wrath of Achilles but stops in surprise when she sees the folder of Uncle Stephen's old sermons in your hands. \"Oh!\" she says. \"Oh ... are those your Uncle Stephen's old sermons? So that's what you were after! You should have just said so. I see I should have trusted you enough to know you could not possibly mean any mischief when you leave your seat.\"\n\nShe actually smiles and pats you on the head. On the bright side, it looks as though she doesn't mind you wandering around any more, since she makes no further attempt to usher you into your chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the gronw", "response": "Uncle Stephen looks inexplicably alarmed. \"We'll have none of that talk here,\" he says sharply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about the llew", "response": "Uncle Stephen wouldn't have anything interesting to say about that, surely; at least, nothing that you would find interesting.\n\nUncle Stephen begins to nod drowsily. In a few moments, his pipe droops down onto his chest and he lets out a tiny little snore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stephen about bloduwedd", "response": "Uncle Stephen stirs and looks bemusedly at you. \"Eh? I'm awake.\nWhat is it, Hector?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the flowers", "response": "(first taking the elaborate flower centrepiece)\nYou hold the elaborate flower centrepiece over your head and pretend for a moment that you're a victorious athlete at the Olympic Games in ancient Greece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the flowers", "response": "You hold the elaborate flower centrepiece over your head and pretend for a moment that it's a halo, your eternal reward for the dreadful trial of sitting through one of Uncle Stephen's interminable sermons.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the flowers", "response": "You hold the elaborate flower centrepiece over your head and pretend for a moment that it's a magic holly wreath that gives you the power of invisibility.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the flowers", "response": "You hold the elaborate flower centrepiece over your head and pretend for a moment that you're an ancient Irish druid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "As you approach the front door, you hear Aunt Emma call out to you, \"Hector, you're not planning on leaving the house, are you? Please don't.\"\n\n\"This is a little bit ridiculous, don't you think?\"\n\nJuly, 1916\n\nGetting the other fellows to join in on this story-telling lark seemed like a good idea at the time. It was better than yet another game of cards, anyway, and it rather took the mind off who is or is not going to be at mess in the morning.\n\nIt's a little terrifying how accustomed you've gotten to this muddy, grimy hell-hole. You could probably find your way back here in the dark, crawling blind through a maze of twisty trenches, all alike.\n\nYou can see Anderson, Jellicoe, Hardy and Macdougal here.\n\nHardy folds his arms. \"I really don't see why we can't just open the door and make a run for it.\"\n\n\"Don't be absurd,\" says Jellicoe, \"we'd be in terrible trouble if we did that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fuck", "response": "Quite.\n\n\"We'd be in trouble anyway, if we ever got out of the house,\" reasons Hardy, not budging. \"Which is the point of this little story, isn't it? Getting out of the house?\"\n\n\"But then we'd have both the aunt and the uncle chasing after us,\" says Macdougal thoughtfully, \"and we'd have to try and find a hiding spot before they catch us, and then we wouldn't be able to enjoy the afternoon because we'd always be looking over our shoulder.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Darn", "response": "Seriously? Your sainted Aunt Emma could do better.\n\nAnderson nods. \"What we need is a head start. It would also help if no-one knew which direction we ran off in. Isn't that right, Conrad?\"\n\nYou nod, not wanting to admit that it had never occurred to you to directly defy Aunt Emma, as per Hardy's suggestion. You were just so used to Aunt Emma's authority that the sound of her voice alone was enough to make you stop in your tracks.\n\nHardy rolls his eyes. \"Fine. Clearly you know what's what better than I do. Let's get back to the story.\"\n\nBright sunlight shines through the sidelights of the front door, to the south. The rest of the hall is dull and muted, with heavy wood panelling. Aunt Emma's parlour is to the west, Uncle Stephen's study is to the east, and the dining room is to the northwest. A small, unobtrusive door behind the stairs goes northeast to the servant areas, and then there's the hall closet.\n\nGoodness. Was that a dream?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nAmong the many souvenirs of ancient history, you spot a duelling pistol. That doesn't look like the sort of thing boring people like Aunt Emma or Uncle Stephen (or, let's face it, anyone in your whole family) are likely to keep around the house!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nSunlight glints off a glass unicorn. Now that's more the sort of pointless ornament you'd expect to find in Aunt Emma's collection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nYou spot a statuette of a black falcon in the midst of all the clutter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "Absolutely everything has some sort of sentimental value. It boggles the mind how any one person can have this much sentiment.\n\nHere's something that's not so bad: a painting of a ship sailing into the sunrise. Or sunset. One of the two.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mantle", "response": "It's one of those extraordinarily sturdy oak affairs. Every time you visit, it looks as though it could not possibly hold even one more little ornament without collapsing; and yet, every time you visit, it looks as though Aunt Emma has managed to fit one more thing on it.\n\nOn the mantel are a displaced gnomon, a snake locket, a white cat, a wooden goblet, an owl saucer, a ship painting, a black falcon, a glass unicorn and a duelling pistol, all half hidden in a crowd of other little ornaments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the unicorn", "response": "\"That used to be part of a much larger glass menagerie,\" says Aunt Emma, \"but, well, the less said about that the better.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the falcon", "response": "Aunt Emma seems to hesitate. \"An ... old friend picked that up years ago when he was in Malta, and brought it back as present.\"\n\nYou're sure you hear Aunt Emma say something about \"dear old Captain Davis...\" as she turns back to her Bible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about the cat", "response": "\"Charming, is it not? I always imagine it's saying hello to me when I come into the parlour in the mornings.\" But how can it, when it has no mouth?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Emma about locket", "response": "\"That thing was in the house when we moved in, and we've never been able to track down the owners. Well. I suppose we're duty-bound to hold on to it until its true owner shows up.\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "Colossal Cash Prize", "cover art", "IFComp 2018", "IFComp Game", "parser", "treasure hunt", "walkthrough" ]

[ 2, 2, 7, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Well, it's time to prove to the whole wide world\nWho's the best and brightest Gamer of 'em all!\nTeams are a-runnin', and a-pushin' and a-shovin'\nAin't we all just a-havin' such a ball?\nWe're a-wearin' every color of the rainbow while a-goin'\nTo some places that we've never ever gone!\nIt's the world's greatest Game. Never played it? What a\nshame!\n'Cause you know it's gonna last us all night long!\n\nAnd disastrous and tremendous\nAnd it's glorious, uproarious and fun!\nFind the treasures!\nFind the clues!\nRun around!\nThat's what you do\nAt The Annual\nAll-Night Diddlebucker Run!\n\n-\"The Diddlebucker Run\" by Wild Bill Adams\n\n\"My, my, that's good popcorn!\"\n\n- Desiderio \"Diddy\" Esposito\n\nDiddlebucker!\n\nConvention Center (Lobby)\nThe lobby area of the Convention Center wraps around the entire complex to the east and west. An excited buzzing fills the air as a great crowd of people funnels through the main doors to Exhibit Hall A to the north.\n\n(For instructions on how to play interactive fiction, contact the author, or get a little help, type \"hint\" at any time.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na check book", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You must state what you would like to listen to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paper", "response": "We have some great news!\n\nabout one another! We're in LOVE! Isn't that great? And it gets even better! We decided that there's no reason to put off our love any longer, so we're ELOPING!!!! We're heading out to Las Vegas right after dropping off this note at the Convention Center. We would have called you, but we didn't want anyone to know until we were already on the plane. You're the first person to find out, though. Aren't you just so happy for us? We'll tell you all about it when we come back next week!\n\nPS Sorry about missing the Diddlebucker, but we knew you wouldn't mind. After all, who wants to stand in the way of true love?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Convention Center (Lobby)\nThe lobby area of the Convention Center wraps around the entire complex to the east and west. An excited buzzing fills the air as a great crowd of people funnels through the main doors to Exhibit Hall A to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crowd", "response": "The members of the crowd are an excited, boisterous lot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Convention Center (Guest Relations)\nHalfway around the loop of the Convention Center lobby is the Guest Relations desk. A young man sits behind the desk. A crowd of people is making its way around you toward the entrance to the exhibit hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You follow the crowd into the exhibit hall...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Exhibit Hall A (Registration)\nMore than a dozen tables stretch across the hall in front of an equally long series of 6-foot-high cubbyhole shelves filled with T-shirts of every color. Above the shelves, a large hanging banner reads \"Team Registration.\" At each table stands a perky representative of Diddlebucker Popcorn assisting one of the teams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the rep about the registration", "response": "You wait in line and finally get to talk with one of the representatives. \"Hi there!\" she says. \"Welcome to the 27th Annual All-Night Diddlebucker Run! Are you the captain of your team?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"Great! Let's get you registered!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Maremelade orange", "response": "She turns to search the shirts in the cubbyholes. It takes her quite a while because of the vast number of shirts. After several moments she finds them.\n\n\"Here they are!\" she says, handing you three maremelade orange shirts. \"Your team is registered. You can get changed in the locker room over by the east wall. Don't forget, the only things you'll be allowed to take out of here when the Diddlebucker starts are your clothes (including your team shirt) and a check book. Good luck and have fun!\" She turns to the next team in line.\n\nExhibit Hall A (Registration)\nMore than a dozen tables stretch across the hall in front of an equally long series of 6-foot-high cubbyhole shelves filled with T-shirts of every color. Above the shelves, a large hanging banner reads \"Team Registration.\" At each table stands a perky representative of Diddlebucker Popcorn assisting one of the teams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "As you step away from the tables, you notice a trash can nearby. Before you can change your mind, you stuff David and Lori's team shirts and their stupid note into it. Who needs those two anyway? You're on your own tonight and that's just fine! You head to the locker room and change into your team shirt. Smiling to yourself, you head to the main floor of the exhibit hall and take one of the few empty seats that are left.\nAfter a while, the main lights dim and the crowd goes wild as Diddy Esposito himself steps onto the stage to a raucous chorus of The Diddlebucker Run. The diminutive old man with the thick mane of\nsnowy white hair smiles widely to the crowd as he steps to the microphone and begins to speak...\n\nTwenty minutes later, Diddy Esposito is wrapping up his remarks. The crowd is hanging on his every word.\n\n\"...and remember at each location in the scavenger hunt, you must find both the treasure that is specific to your team and the clue that will take you to the next location. And of course, if your team is the FIRST to reach the SECRET finish line with ALL FOUR of your team's treasures, your team will split ONE MILLION DOLLARS and each member of your team will also win a LIFETIME SUPPLY OF Diddlebucker POPCORN! Now go out there and make Diddlebucker '87 the BEST Diddlebucker RUN EVER!\"\n\nThe crowd goes absolutely bananas and surges to its feet. You have no choice but to be carried along with the churning sea of cheering Gamers out of the exhibit hall, through the lobby and out into the warm summer evening air...\n\nYou are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to the Convention Center to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside a number of businesses to the north. Installed in the front wall of one of the businesses is a vending machine of some kind. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nYou can see a man playing a saxophone here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "This machine dispenses hot beverages and has been installed in the front wall of one of the businesses here. Affixed to the front of the machine is a list of the free coffees available with a lettered button next to each one. Above the machine is a sign which reads \"Free coffee courtesy of Diddlebucker Popcorn!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coffee", "response": "Nonsense!\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.\n\nSuddenly, a group of teenagers dashes by. Their green and orange shirts read \"Dungeon Masters of Southport.\" The last one to pass points at you and shouts \"Praeumbro caliginosus!\" before laughing and chasing after her teammates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "The elderly man wearing a black suit and sunglasses sways gently to the tunes coming from his saxophone. At his feet is an overturned black bowler hat. He is currently playing The Way You Look\nTonight.\n\nSuddenly, a group of teenagers dashes by. Their green and orange shirts read \"Dungeon Masters of Southport.\" The last one to pass points at you and shouts \"Adnexus!\" before laughing and chasing after his teammates.\n\nThe taxicab disappears into the traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the saxophone", "response": "It looks old, but well cared-for.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bowler", "response": "The black bowler hat is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the check in the bowler", "response": "The saxophone player gives his hat a light kick with his foot, knocking the check book onto the concrete sidewalk.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Ask you walk past the saxophone player, he suddenly breaks into a rendition of Wrong Way Fay. You turn to look at him, but he\nseems to be paying no attention to you, though it's hard to tell with those sunglasses on.\n\nThe taxicab disappears into the traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the check book", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe taxicab disappears into the traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Ask you walk past the saxophone player, he suddenly breaks into a rendition of Wrong Way Fay. You turn to look at him, but he\nseems to be paying no attention to you, though it's hard to tell with those sunglasses on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Ask you walk past the saxophone player, he suddenly breaks into a rendition of Don't Go Down That Lonely Road. You turn to look\nat him, but he seems to be paying no attention to you, though it's hard to tell with those sunglasses on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to the Convention Center to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to a Henry's Burgers to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Like every other HB you've ever been in, this one smells of grease, onions and seasoned salt. A large menu board hangs above a counter, behind which stands a teenage girl wearing a paper hat.\n\nA door in the northeast corner leads to the restroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine girl", "response": "Cindy, for that is what her nametag says, smiles vacantly at you. She is wearing a paper hat and a truly remarkable number of novelty buttons pinned to her shirt, each a different color.\n\nCindy gives you a cheerful wave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cindy about the treasure", "response": "Unfortunately, Cindy seems momentarily distracted by a moth buzzing by one of the ceiling lights.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "You push through the swinging door...\n\nThis is one of those tiny one-person restrooms.\n\nYou can see a mirror, a toilet, a sink and a trash can here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the can", "response": "The trash can has a lid which can be open or closed. The trash can is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the trash can, revealing some garbage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the garbage", "response": "The garbage is pretty disgusting. You don't want to stick your hands in it unless you really have to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move can", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is one of those tiny one-person restrooms.\n\nYou can see a mirror, a toilet, a sink and a trash can (in which are a gift certificate and some garbage) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take certificate", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the certificate", "response": "Each gift certificate has a picture of Henry McHenry, the mascot of Henry's Burgers on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "The sink has a hot handle and a cold handle and a faucet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mirror", "response": "You see yourself. Also, you see some smudges that might be some kind of writing, but they are pretty faint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the smudges", "response": "The writing is too faint to make out clearly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the cold handle", "response": "Cold water pours out of the faucet. You turn the cold handle back off again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on hot handle", "response": "Hot water pours out of the faucet, filling the small room with clouds of steam. You turn the hot handle back off again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "You push through the swinging door...\n\nYou can't be completely sure, but as you re-enter the dining area you could swear that, for just a moment, there was a look of shrewd self-satisfaction on Cindy's face. However, as soon as the restroom door closes behind you, she immediately begins a vague, glazy-eyed inspection of her left hand, her mouth hanging open slightly.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Henry's Burgers\nLike every other HB you've ever been in, this one smells of grease, onions and seasoned salt. A large menu board hangs above a counter, behind which stands a teenage girl wearing a paper hat.\n\nA door in the northeast corner leads to the restroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hat", "response": "You see nothing special about the paper hat.\n\nCindy seems to notice that there is something written on your shirt. Her brow furrows as if in deep concentration as her lips slowly mouth the words written there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the buttons", "response": "Cindy is wearing dozens of novelty buttons pinned to her uniform, each a different color and each one emblazoned with a unique and (supposedly) pithy saying. You notice one button that precisely matches the maremelade orange of your shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cindy about the button", "response": "\"Do you like it? Tell you what, I'll give it to you, but first you have to prove you deserve it!\"\n\nCindy fiddles with the novelty buttons on her shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the certificate to Cindy", "response": "You should SHOW things TO people instead.\n\nCindy seems to notice that there is something written on your shirt. Her brow furrows as if in deep concentration as her lips slowly mouth the words written there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the certificate to Cindy", "response": "Cindy gasps and stares in wonder at the gift certificate.\n\nCindy fiddles with the novelty buttons on her shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cindy about the button", "response": "\"Do you like it? Tell you what, I'll give it to you, but first you have to prove you deserve it!\"\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers bursts into the restaurant. Their lime-colored shirts read \"University Debate Team.\" They search the restaurant in a logical and thorough manner, but find nothing. The last one out the door shouts \"Be it resolved that Smith. will lose big!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cindy about the certificate", "response": "Unfortunately, Cindy seems momentarily distracted by a moth buzzing by one of the ceiling lights.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the board", "response": "The menu offers the usual Henry's Burgers fare: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, fries, shakes, sodas, etc.\n\nCindy suddenly giggles and puts her hands over her mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show shirt to Cindy", "response": "Cindy gasps and stares in wonder at the team shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cindy about the burger", "response": "\"We have the best in town! You really ought to buy one!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the certificate to Cindy", "response": "Cindy gasps and stares in wonder at the gift certificate.\n\nSuddenly, a group of teenagers bursts into the restaurant. Their green and orange shirts read \"Dungeon Masters of Southport.\" They frantically search the restaurant looking for clues, but find nothing. The last one to leave points at you and shouts \"Magicus telum!\" before laughing and chasing after her teammates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the burger", "response": "You must state what you would like to buy the hamburger with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the burger with the check", "response": "Cindy's eyes light up as she takes your check. She stares at it for several agonizing seconds, sniffs it and even gives it an experimental taste with the tip of her tongue. Finally, she shrugs her shoulders happily and puts it in her register. \"Your order will be out in a few minutes!\" she says brightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nCindy fiddles with the novelty buttons on her shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Your order is ready!\" cries Cindy as she proudly places a fry box on the counter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the box", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You throw away the fry box on your way out the door.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Cleveland Avenue West\nYou are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to a Henry's Burgers to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to the Convention Center to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside a number of businesses to the north. Installed in the front wall of one of the businesses is a vending machine of some kind. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nYou can see a man playing a saxophone here.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na chocolate chip cookie\na gift certificate\na check book\nyour team shirt (being worn)\n\nThe taxicab disappears into the traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to the Convention Center to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in silver and blue shirts runs past you, making rude comments about your last name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to a Henry's Burgers to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in black and pink shirts runs past. One of them points at you and laughs on his way by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Like every other HB you've ever been in, this one smells of grease, onions and seasoned salt. A large menu board hangs above a counter, behind which stands a teenage girl wearing a paper hat.\n\nA door in the northeast corner leads to the restroom.\n\nSuddenly, a group of three older men bursts into the restaurant. Their red, white and blue shirts read \"Former Presidents of the United States.\" They search the restaurant for clues in a somewhat dignified manner, but find nothing. Your stare in amazement as Richard Nixon gives you a thumbs-up on his way out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cindy about the box", "response": "Unfortunately, Cindy seems momentarily distracted by a moth buzzing by one of the ceiling lights.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the burger with the check", "response": "More than a little concerned about what Cindy might do with your check this time, you decide you don't really need any more food that badly.\n\nSuddenly, a group of men and women bursts into the restaurant. Their gray shirts identify them as \"The Implementers.\" They frantically search the restaurant for clues, but find nothing. One of them high-fives you before following the others out the door. The back of his shirt reads \"O'Neill.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na chocolate chip cookie\na gift certificate\na check book\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cookie", "response": "It came in the wrong box and wasn't even on the menu. You have no idea how Cindy could possibly think this is what you wanted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside a number of businesses to the north. Installed in the front wall of one of the businesses is a vending machine of some kind. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nYou can see a man playing a saxophone here.\n\nSuddenly, a group of fez-wearing men rides past you on what look like brand new miniature cars. Their gold shirts read \"Nobles of the Ali Baba Temple of the Shrine - Hahira Delegation.\" The last driver beeps as he passes by, waving at you merrily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the cookie to the man", "response": "The man playing a saxophone is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cookie", "response": "You eat the chocolate chip cookie. Not bad.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the list", "response": "(A) The Robert Redford: large, medium roast with cinnamon\n(B) The Princess Di: small, light roast with cream and sugar\n(C) The Stephen King: medium, extra dark roast with cherry\nsyrup\n(D) The Air Jordan: extra large, medium roast with extra foam\n(E) The Cyndi Lauper: extra small, light roast with bubble gum\nsyrup\n(F) The Mike Tyson: extra large, dark roast, with a shot of\nTabasco for that extra \"punch\"\n(G) The Joe Pesci: small macchiato with chocolate sprinkles\n(H) The Scott Baio: plain black coffee\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers dashes by. Their lemon yellow shirts read \"The Brat Pack.\" You jump with surprise when Emilio Estevez gives you an encouraging smack on the backside while running past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Press east", "response": "(the E button)\nThe machine whirs to life. A disposable coffee cup drops from a hidden slot and a jet of hot coffee squirts into the cup. When it has finished a lid drops from the same slot. You secure the lid on the cup before picking it up.\n\nThe taxicab disappears into the traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Like every other HB you've ever been in, this one smells of grease, onions and seasoned salt. A large menu board hangs above a counter, behind which stands a teenage girl wearing a paper hat.\n\nA door in the northeast corner leads to the restroom.\n\nSuddenly, a group of elderly women wearing pink shirts bursts into the restaurant. Their shirts read \"Quilting Ladies of Colonial Hills.\" They tear the place apart looking for clues before dashing back out the door empty-handed. The last one to leave smiles at you while making a rude gesture. She then cackles wickedly and hurries to catch up with her teammates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the coffee to Cindy", "response": "Cindy gasps and stares in wonder at the Cyndi Lauper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the cookie to Cindy", "response": "Cindy gasps and stares in wonder at the chocolate chip cookie.\n\nCindy fiddles with the novelty buttons on her shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cindy about the button", "response": "\"Do you like it? Tell you what, I'll give it to you, but first you have to prove you deserve it!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Nah, the Diddlebucker is taking place out here in the city. There's no reason to go back into the Convention Center.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in black and pink shirts runs past. One of them points at you and laughs on his way by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside a number of businesses to the north. Installed in the front wall of one of the businesses is a vending machine of some kind. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nYou can see a man playing a saxophone here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the coffee to the man", "response": "(the Cyndi Lauper to the man playing a saxophone)\nThe man playing a saxophone is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na Cyndi Lauper (closed)\na chocolate chip cookie\na gift certificate\na check book\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the coffee", "response": "(the Cyndi Lauper)\nIt looks like any other disposable coffee cup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the certificate", "response": "Each gift certificate has a picture of Henry McHenry, the mascot of Henry's Burgers on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You take a good look, but none of the businesses on this side of Cleveland Avenue seem like a good place to find Diddlebucker clues.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in silver and blue shirts runs past you, making rude comments about your hair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "The elderly man wearing a black suit and sunglasses sways gently to the tunes coming from his saxophone. At his feet is an overturned black bowler hat. He is currently playing Unchained Melody.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hat", "response": "The black bowler hat is empty.\n\nThe taxicab disappears into the traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cookie", "response": "Taken.\n\nSuddenly, a group of elderly men in loud pants dashes (sort of) past you. Their plaid T-shirts read \"Golfing Grandpas of Golden Acres.\"\nThe last one to pass by tips his hat at you in a friendly way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the list", "response": "(A) The Robert Redford: large, medium roast with cinnamon\n(B) The Princess Di: small, light roast with cream and sugar\n(C) The Stephen King: medium, extra dark roast with cherry\nsyrup\n(D) The Air Jordan: extra large, medium roast with extra foam\n(E) The Cyndi Lauper: extra small, light roast with bubble gum\nsyrup\n(F) The Mike Tyson: extra large, dark roast, with a shot of\nTabasco for that extra \"punch\"\n(G) The Joe Pesci: small macchiato with chocolate sprinkles\n(H) The Scott Baio: plain black coffee", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take certificate", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave certificate", "response": "You wave the gift certificate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine mascot", "response": "The smiling anthropomorphized cheeseburger is giving a \"thumbs up\" gesture.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to the Convention Center to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Like every other HB you've ever been in, this one smells of grease, onions and seasoned salt. A large menu board hangs above a counter, behind which stands a teenage girl wearing a paper hat.\n\nA door in the northeast corner leads to the restroom.\n\nCindy stares at nothing for several seconds, as if fascinated by something only she can see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the cheeseburger with the certificate", "response": "Once again you think you see a shrewd smile flicker across Cindy's face, though it is replaced so quickly by her usual expression of unbounded cluelessness, that you wonder if you imagined it. She takes the gift certificate and, surprisingly, completes the sale without incident. \"Your order will be out in a few minutes!\" she says brightly while handing you your change.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Cindy about the button", "response": "\"Do you like it? Tell you what, I'll give it to you, but first you have to prove you deserve it!\"\n\nSuddenly, a group of fez-wearing men rides into the restaurant on what look like brand new miniature cars. Their gold shirts read \"Nobles of the Ali Baba Temple of the Shrine - Hahira Delegation.\" They drive all around the restaurant looking for clues, but find nothing. Each driver beeps and waves at Cindy on his way out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Your order is ready!\" cries Cindy as she proudly places a bag on the counter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bag", "response": "It is a white paper bag marked with a stylized HB. The top of the bag has been folded closed.\n\nSuddenly, a group of teenagers bursts into the restaurant. Their silver shirts read \"Breakdancers of River Oaks.\" Their rhythmic search of the restaurant is almost hypnotic, but they come up empty-handed. The last one moonwalks on his way out.\n\nCindy seems to notice that there is something written on your shirt. Her brow furrows as if in deep concentration as her lips slowly mouth the words written there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "You unfold the top of the bag.\n\nCindy gives you a cheerful wave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bag", "response": "It is a white paper bag marked with a stylized HB.\n\nIn the bag is a styrofoam carton.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the carton", "response": "You open the styrofoam carton, revealing a hot dog.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the hot dog to Cindy", "response": "(first taking the hot dog)\nCindy gasps and stares in wonder at the hot dog.\n\nCindy stares at nothing for several seconds, as if fascinated by something only she can see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the hot dog in the carton", "response": "You put the hot dog into the styrofoam carton.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You throw away the white paper bag on your way out the door.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Cleveland Avenue West\nYou are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to a Henry's Burgers to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nSuddenly, a group of elderly men in loud pants dashes (sort of) past you. Their plaid T-shirts read \"Golfing Grandpas of Golden Acres.\"\nThe last one to pass by tips his hat at you in a friendly way.\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside a number of businesses to the north. Installed in the front wall of one of the businesses is a vending machine of some kind. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nYou can see a man playing a saxophone here.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in blue and white shirts comes into view. They are discussing the blue and white card that one of them is holding, but when they see you, they lower their voices and eye you suspiciously until they pass by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the carton in the hat", "response": "The saxophone player gives his hat a light kick with his foot, knocking the styrofoam carton onto the concrete sidewalk.\n\nThe taxicab disappears into the traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hot dog", "response": "Taken.\n\nSuddenly, a group of fez-wearing men rides past you on what look like brand new miniature cars. Their gold shirts read \"Nobles of the Ali Baba Temple of the Shrine - Hahira Delegation.\" The last driver beeps as he passes by, waving at you merrily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome change\na chocolate chip cookie\na Cyndi Lauper (closed)\na check book\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put change in the hat", "response": "applause of several passersby. He then turns to you and pulls open one side of his suit coat, revealing an inside pocket full of several cards, each of a different color. He rifles through the cards for a moment before handing you one that matches the exact maremelade orange of your shirt. Tipping his hat to you, he begins playing again.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the card to Cindy", "response": "Cindy jumps up and down and claps her hands. \"I knew it!\" she cries. \"They told me that someone might show me a card like that and if so, I'm supposed to give you one of these.\" She unpins the maremelade orange button from her shirt and hands it to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine button", "response": "Emblazoned on the maremelade orange button are the words \"THE FUTURE AIN'T WHAT IT USED TO BE!\"\n\nSuddenly, a group of young men and women bursts into the restaurant. Their crimson shirts read \"Young Republicans of Riverside.\" They frantically search the restaurant for clues, but come up empty-handed. The last one to dash out the door shouts \"Let's win this one for the Gipper!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the button", "response": "You put on the maremelade orange button.\n\nSuddenly, a group of three older men bursts into the restaurant. Their red, white and blue shirts read \"Former Presidents of the United States.\" They search the restaurant for clues in a somewhat dignified manner, but find nothing. Your stare in amazement as Jimmy Carter gives you a thumbs-up on his way out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for the cab", "response": "You wait for the taxi. After several moments, you see one coming down the street.\n\nYou whistle sharply and the taxicab pulls to the curb. You open the door and climb inside...\n\nThis is an older vehicle, but it's surprisingly clean. The pine tree air freshener is a nice touch. The cab driver sits in the front seat. You notice an instruction placard and an ID card affixed to the dashboard.\n\nThe driver glances at you in the rear-view mirror. \"Hey, you're one of them Gamers, aren't you?\" he asks, a broad smile on his face. \"You know, me and my buddies played the Diddlebucker back in '79. We came in third place outta like eighty teams. Not bad, eh?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the placard", "response": "\"To ask the cab driver to take you somewhere, just type TRAVEL.\n\nAlso, when near a road, you may type WAIT FOR TAXI to wait for the taxi to arrive.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "\"Hmm... I don't know that place, Gamer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na maremelade orange button (being worn)\nthe first maremelade orange riddle card\na chocolate chip cookie\na Cyndi Lauper (closed)\na check book\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the card", "response": "(the first maremelade orange riddle card)\nOne side of the maremelade orange card bears a large number \"1.\" On the other is the following poem:\n\nIT HAS A BED AND A MOUTH\nAND SOME BRANCHES ALSO\n\nIT GOES WELL WITH BOARD\nSIDE, MOON, SLEEP AND CAKE", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the card to the driver", "response": "(the first maremelade orange riddle card to the cab driver)\nThe cab driver is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "River Walk", "response": "\"Ok, here we go.\" The cabbie starts the meter and pulls into traffic. He expertly drives you through the city for several minutes before finally arriving at your destination. You pay the fee (plus a generous tip) by check and exit the cab. \"Good luck, Gamer!\" the cabbie calls to you through the window before pulling away.\n\nRiver Walk (South)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the southernmost portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. Some kind of concert is being performed on the eastern side of the river. A large crowd has congregated here, blocking passage to the east. They seem to be enjoying the view of the river.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "River Walk (South)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the southernmost portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. Some kind of concert is being performed on the eastern side of the river. A large crowd has congregated here, blocking passage to the east. They seem to be enjoying the view of the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. One souvenir shop in particular stands out from the others. On the far side of the river, a concert is being performed.\n\nSuddenly, a diverse group of Gamers wearing white shirts dashes by you. Their shirts read \"Abrahamic Interfaith League of Piedmont.\" As they pass, a Catholic priest smiles at you and makes a sign of blessing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This shop specializes in the assorted knick knacks and chotchkies that appeal to tourists the world over. A bored-looking teenage guy stands behind the counter by the door. East/west aisles are numbered from 1 to 3. Aisle 1 is to the southwest, Aisle 2 is directly west of you and Aisle 3 is to the northwest.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers bursts into the store. Their neon shirts read \"BTTF Forever!\" They tear the place apart looking for clues, but find nothing. The last one shouts \"This is heavy!\" as he heads out the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine guy", "response": "His nametag says \"CECIL\" and his attitude says \"disaffected.\"\n\nSuddenly, a group of teenagers bursts into the store. Their green and orange shirts read \"Dungeon Masters of Southport.\" They frantically search the store looking for clues, but find nothing. The last one to leave points at you and shouts \"Praeumbro caliginosus!\" before laughing and chasing after his teammates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glasses", "response": "Designed for the tourist who prefers a durable yet inexpensive souvenir, each type of glass has a unique image and saying printed upon it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This shop specializes in the assorted knick knacks and chotchkies that appeal to tourists the world over. A bored-looking teenage guy stands behind the counter by the door. East/west aisles are numbered from 1 to 3. Aisle 1 is to the southwest, Aisle 2 is directly west of you and Aisle 3 is to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "The shelves of this aisle are dedicated to fireworks.\n\nOn the shelves is an Atom Smasher.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Smasher", "response": "The firecracker consists of a large bulb about the size of a softball. The bulb is attached to a pole about three feet long. You can see a fuse attached to the bottom of the bulb. The bulb is labeled with the words \"THE ATOM SMASHER.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "This shop specializes in the assorted knick knacks and chotchkies that appeal to tourists the world over. A bored-looking teenage guy stands behind the counter by the door. East/west aisles are numbered from 1 to 3. Aisle 1 is to the southwest, Aisle 2 is directly west of you and Aisle 3 is to the northwest.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers bursts into the store. Their lime-colored shirts read \"University Debate Team.\" They search the store in a logical and thorough manner, but find nothing. The last one out the door shouts \"Be it resolved that Smith. will lose big!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the keychains", "response": "Most of the keychains are imprinted with various forenames, but others bear images related to the city in particular or to the concept of vacation in general.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "This shop specializes in the assorted knick knacks and chotchkies that appeal to tourists the world over. A bored-looking teenage guy stands behind the counter by the door. East/west aisles are numbered from 1 to 3. Aisle 1 is to the southwest, Aisle 2 is directly west of you and Aisle 3 is to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine guy", "response": "He wears a nametag on his uniform and an indifferent expression on his face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy Smasher", "response": "You must state what you would like to buy the Atom Smasher with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy Smasher with the check", "response": "Cecil takes your check and places it in his register. He promptly crumples up your receipt and throws it away. \"Thank you and have a nice day,\" he mumbles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "After the door closes, you hear someone locking it behind you. You turn around and see that the lights in the store have all been turned out.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## River Walk\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. One souvenir shop in particular stands out from the others. On the far side of the river, a concert is being performed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. On the far side of the river a concert is being performed. An east/west bridge spans the river here, forming the tunnel through which the river flows below. You also notice a narrow gap between two of the shops to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You sneak behind the shops...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Near Darkness\nThe night sky provides some light back here, but not enough to see anything very clearly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You slip into the narrow path...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## River Walk\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. On the far side of the river a concert is being performed. An east/west bridge spans the river here, forming the tunnel through which the river flows below. You also notice a narrow gap between two of the shops to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "River Walk (North)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the far northern portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. There is a dock to the east.\n\nYou can see an 'invisible box' (in which is a mime) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Well, it's not a real box, is it? But the mime is pretending to be trapped in it all the same.\n\nIn the 'invisible box' is a mime.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in black and pink shirts runs past. One of them points at you and laughs on her way by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take box", "response": "Ridiculous!\n\nThe mime sits on a invisible stool and ruminates on her problem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan Atom Smasher\na maremelade orange button (being worn)\nthe first maremelade orange riddle card\na chocolate chip cookie\na Cyndi Lauper (closed)\na check book\nyour team shirt (being worn)\n\nThe mime pretends to eat a banana.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show cookie to the mime", "response": "She's far too focused on her \"predicament\" to pay attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. On the far side of the river a concert is being performed. An east/west bridge spans the river here, forming the tunnel through which the river flows below. You also notice a narrow gap between two of the shops to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "It isn't something you can open.\n\nThe mime knocks on the walls of her \"prison.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This cobblestone bridge spans the river from east to west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "River Walk (East)\nMost of the eastern side of the River Walk has been given over to a free outdoor rock concert. A 50's & 60's cover band belts out classic rock tunes from a stage to the south, while an enthusiastic crowd sings and dances along to the music, many of them waving those little glow sticks that give off a bright green light for several hours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crowd", "response": "The crowd seems to be having a good time.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers dashes by. Their rhinestone-studded T-shirts read \"The International Brotherhood of Elvis Impersonators.\" Each one of them thanks you very much as he runs past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Although the band is certainly talented, the music is almost unbearably loud here, just a few yards from the stage itself. The crowd is too thick to allow you to move any closer to the band and, to be honest, you're not sure your ears could take it anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe lead singer steps away from the microphone as the piano player goes into full Jerry Lee Lewis mode on his solo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine singer", "response": "The lead singer is holding some of those little glow sticks and looks as if he is preparing to toss them into the crowd. You quickly move several steps to your right to better position yourself to catch one.\n\nThe lead singer throws some glow sticks into the crowd. You jump in the air and catch one just in time!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "River Walk (East)\nMost of the eastern side of the River Walk has been given over to a free outdoor rock concert. A 50's & 60's cover band belts out classic rock tunes from a stage to the south, while an enthusiastic crowd sings and dances along to the music, many of them waving those little glow sticks that give off a bright green light for several hours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The crowd stretches too far to the north to bother trying to go that way.\n\nSuddenly, a diverse group of Gamers wearing white shirts dashes by you. Their shirts read \"Abrahamic Interfaith League of Piedmont.\" As they pass, a young nun smiles at you and makes a sign of blessing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stick", "response": "It's a small plastic tube about six inches long and as big around as your thumb. The glow stick is not glowing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break stick", "response": "You bend the glow stick until you hear a satisfying snapping sound. You shake it a few times and it begins to give off a brilliant green glow.\n\nSuddenly, a group of young men and women dashes past you. Their crimson shirts read \"Young Republicans of Riverside.\" The last one to pass by shouts \"Let's win this one for the Gipper!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You sneak behind the shops...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Alley\nThis north/south alley runs behind the River Walk buildings. A narrow path between the buildings leads to the east.\n\nYou can see a metal tub here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tub", "response": "It's a round tub about three feet in diameter and two feet deep. It has two handles on either side to make it easier to carry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the northernmost part of this north/south alley which runs behind the River Walk buildings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This north/south alley runs behind the River Walk buildings. A narrow path between the buildings leads to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This north/south alley runs behind the River Walk buildings.\n\nYou can see a long PVC pipe here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This north/south alley runs behind the River Walk buildings. A ladder runs up the side of one of the buildings here and the alley opens onto the street just a little to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pipe", "response": "It's about three inches in diameter and four feet long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ladder", "response": "The ladder seems to go all the way to the roof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You ascend the ladder...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Rooftop\nThis is the rooftop of one of the River Walk shops. The lights and sounds of the River Walk are fainter up here, but the view is fantastic. It offers a beautiful view of the River Walk below. It is connected to the roof of the store to the north\n\nYou can see a shabbily dressed man here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "He is sitting on the floor, leaning against the bricks of the protective wall that surrounds the roof. His clothes are threadbare and his battered hat keeps most of his face in shadow. As you study him, he draws a long breath on his cigarette, temporarily highlighting his face in an eerie red glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Just as you turn to go, the shabby man flicks his cigarette past you and over the edge of the roof. He casually lights another with a lighter that quickly disappears again into the folds of his clothing.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Rooftop\nThis is the rooftop of The 'Bear' Necessities. It offers a beautiful view of the River Walk below. This roof is connected to the roofs of the stores to the north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This is the rooftop of another of the River Walk shops. It is connected to the roofs of the stores to the north and south. The sights and sounds of the River Walk drift up on the night air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This is the rooftop of another of the River Walk shops. It offers a beautiful view of the River Walk below. It is connected to the roof of the store to the south\n\nYou can see a pile of gravel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gravel", "response": "Your load is too heavy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put gravel in the tub", "response": "It's too awkward to place something in the metal tub while you are carrying it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the tub", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "long PVC pipe: Dropped.\nglow stick: Dropped.\nAtom Smasher: Dropped.\nfirst maremelade orange riddle card: Dropped.\nchocolate chip cookie: Dropped.\nCyndi Lauper: You set the cup on the edge of the roof. Unsurprisingly, it tumbles into the darkness below.\ncheck book: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the pipe and check the book", "response": "long PVC pipe: Dropped.\ncheck book: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na glow stick (providing light)\nan Atom Smasher\na maremelade orange button (being worn)\nthe first maremelade orange riddle card\na chocolate chip cookie\na Cyndi Lauper (closed)\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the cookie and Smasher", "response": "chocolate chip cookie: Dropped.\nAtom Smasher: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the coffee", "response": "You set the cup on the edge of the roof. Unsurprisingly, it tumbles into the darkness below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na glow stick (providing light)\na maremelade orange button (being worn)\nthe first maremelade orange riddle card\na Cyndi Lauper (closed)\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop card", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na glow stick (providing light)\na maremelade orange button (being worn)\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gravel", "response": "Using the tail of your shirt to carry it, you kneel down and carefully scoop up the pile of gravel. You grunt audibly as you stand back on your feet, swaying slightly under the weight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "glow stick: Taken.\nfirst maremelade orange riddle card: Taken.\nAtom Smasher: Taken.\nchocolate chip cookie: Taken.\ncheck book: Taken.\nlong PVC pipe: Taken.\nmetal tub: The tub will be awfully heavy with all that gravel in it. You decide to leave it here.\npile of gravel: No, it was far too much effort to get the gravel in the tub. Let's just leave it there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is the rooftop of another of the River Walk shops. It is connected to the roofs of the stores to the north and south. The sights and sounds of the River Walk drift up on the night air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This is the rooftop of another of the River Walk shops. It offers a beautiful view of the River Walk below. It is connected to the roof of the store to the south\n\nYou can see a metal tub (in which is a pile of gravel) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is the rooftop of The 'Bear' Necessities. It offers a beautiful view of the River Walk below. This roof is connected to the roofs of the stores to the north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is the rooftop of one of the River Walk shops. The lights and sounds of the River Walk are fainter up here, but the view is fantastic. It offers a beautiful view of the River Walk below. It is connected to the roof of the store to the north\n\nYou can see a shabbily dressed man here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the cigarettes", "response": "\"Sorry, Gamer. These things are bad for ya. In good conscience, I can't letcha have one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask man about lighter", "response": "He takes another long drag, while eyeing you intently.\"Ya know, I sure could go for a good cup o' Joe right now,\" he says.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "You descend the ladder...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Alley\nThis north/south alley runs behind the River Walk buildings. A ladder runs up the side of one of the buildings here and the alley opens onto the street just a little to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "River Street is a very busy road. You decide to stay in the Alley.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This north/south alley runs behind the River Walk buildings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This north/south alley runs behind the River Walk buildings. A narrow path between the buildings leads to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You slip into the narrow path...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## River Walk\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. On the far side of the river a concert is being performed. An east/west bridge spans the river here, forming the tunnel through which the river flows below. You also notice a narrow gap between two of the shops to the west.\n\nSuddenly, a group of young men and women dashes past you. Their blue shirts read \"Young Democrats of Cherry Hill.\" The last one to pass by shouts \"We heart Hart!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for the taxi", "response": "You might be waiting a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. One souvenir shop in particular stands out from the others. On the far side of the river, a concert is being performed.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers dashes by. Their lemon yellow shirts read \"The Brat Pack.\" You jump with surprise when Judd Nelson gives you an encouraging smack on the backside while running past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "River Walk (South)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the southernmost portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. Some kind of concert is being performed on the eastern side of the river. A large crowd has congregated here, blocking passage to the east. They seem to be enjoying the view of the river.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for taxi", "response": "The taxicab is already here!\n\nYou whistle sharply and the taxicab pulls to the curb. You open the door and climb inside...\n\nThis is an older vehicle, but it's surprisingly clean. The pine tree air freshener is a nice touch. The cab driver sits in the front seat. You notice an instruction placard and an ID card affixed to the dashboard.\n\n\"Welcome back, Gamer!\" the driver says jovially.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Convention Center", "response": "\"Ok, here we go.\" The cabbie starts the meter and pulls into traffic. He expertly drives you through the city for several minutes before finally arriving at your destination. You pay the fee (plus a generous tip) by check and exit the cab. \"Good luck, Gamer!\" the cabbie calls to you through the window before pulling away.\n\nYou are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to the Convention Center to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside a number of businesses to the north. Installed in the front wall of one of the businesses is a vending machine of some kind. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nYou can see a hot dog, a styrofoam carton and a man playing a saxophone here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the list", "response": "(A) The Robert Redford: large, medium roast with cinnamon\n(B) The Princess Di: small, light roast with cream and sugar\n(C) The Stephen King: medium, extra dark roast with cherry\nsyrup\n(D) The Air Jordan: extra large, medium roast with extra foam\n(E) The Cyndi Lauper: extra small, light roast with bubble gum\nsyrup\n(F) The Mike Tyson: extra large, dark roast, with a shot of\nTabasco for that extra \"punch\"\n(G) The Joe Pesci: small macchiato with chocolate sprinkles\n(H) The Scott Baio: plain black coffee", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press g.", "response": "The machine whirs to life. A disposable coffee cup drops from a hidden slot and a jet of hot coffee squirts into the cup. When it has finished a lid drops from the same slot. You secure the lid on the cup before picking it up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na Joe Pesci (closed)\na long PVC pipe\na check book\na chocolate chip cookie\nan Atom Smasher\nthe first maremelade orange riddle card\na glow stick (providing light)\na maremelade orange button (being worn)\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are standing on the east-west sidewalk outside the entrance to the Convention Center to the north. A constant stream of traffic rumbles up and down Cleveland Avenue just feet away.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hail taxi", "response": "You whistle sharply and the taxicab pulls to the curb. You open the door and climb inside...\n\nThis is an older vehicle, but it's surprisingly clean. The pine tree air freshener is a nice touch. The cab driver sits in the front seat. You notice an instruction placard and an ID card affixed to the dashboard.\n\n\"Welcome back, Gamer!\" the driver says jovially.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "River Walk", "response": "\"Ok, here we go.\" The cabbie starts the meter and pulls into traffic. He expertly drives you through the city for several minutes before finally arriving at your destination. You pay the fee (plus a generous tip) by check and exit the cab. \"Good luck, Gamer!\" the cabbie calls to you through the window before pulling away.\n\nRiver Walk (South)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the southernmost portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. Some kind of concert is being performed on the eastern side of the river. A large crowd has congregated here, blocking passage to the east. They seem to be enjoying the view of the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. One souvenir shop in particular stands out from the others. On the far side of the river, a concert is being performed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You sneak behind the shops...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Alley\nThis north/south alley runs behind the River Walk buildings. A narrow path between the buildings leads to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show coffee to the man", "response": "You hand the cup to the shabbily dressed man. He takes a long sip and a beatific smile spreads across his face. \"Ahhh, that's a good cup o' Joe,\" he sighs. He takes another sip. \"Well, let's see,\" he continues. \"I guess one good turn deserves another.\" He tosses his lighter to you. \"You can keep it, Gamer. I gotta dozen of 'em anyhow.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine lighter", "response": "It's a small disposable lighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Smasher in the tub", "response": "You shove the pole of the Atom Smasher into the gravel. Unfortunately, the pole is rather flimsy and wasn't designed to hold the firework bulb without some other support. The weight of the bulb bends the pole over until the Atom Smasher topples out of the gravel and onto the ground.\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put pipe in the gravel", "response": "You shove the end of the PVC pipe into the gravel. It sticks up fairly well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Smasher in the pipe", "response": "You slide the Atom Smasher's pole into the long PVC pipe, leaving the bulb of the firework sticking out of one end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light fuse", "response": "You must state what you would like to light the fuse with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lighter", "response": "Click. A small flame springs to life from the end of the\nlighter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light fuse with lighter", "response": "FOOSH! The Atom Smasher streaks into the night sky. After a moment, the trail of sparks dies away and you fear the firework might have been a dud. Then, there is a huge explosion of red! BOOM! And another of green! CRACK! Yellow! FIZZ! Dozens of explosions light up the night and the crowds of people below start cheering and applauding, many of them racing this direction to get a better view of the spectacle.\n\nYou release the pressure on the lighter and the flame goes out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na lighter\na check book\na chocolate chip cookie\nthe first maremelade orange riddle card\na glow stick (providing light)\na maremelade orange button (being worn)\nyour team shirt (being worn)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is the rooftop of another of the River Walk shops. It offers a beautiful view of the River Walk below. It is connected to the roof of the store to the south\n\nYou can see a metal tub (in which are a long PVC pipe and a pile of gravel) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You slip into the narrow path...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## River Walk\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. On the far side of the river a concert is being performed. An east/west bridge spans the river here, forming the tunnel through which the river flows below. You also notice a narrow gap between two of the shops to the west. A large crowd has gathered here, staring up at the sky.\n\nSuddenly, a diverse group of Gamers wearing white shirts dashes by you. Their shirts read \"Abrahamic Interfaith League of Piedmont.\" As they pass, a Jewish rabbi smiles at you and makes a sign of blessing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "This cobblestone bridge spans the river from east to west.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in gold shirts knock you out of their way as they run past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "River Walk (East)\nMost of the eastern side of the River Walk has been given over to a free outdoor rock concert. A 50's & 60's cover band belts out classic rock tunes from a stage to the south, while an enthusiastic crowd sings and dances along to the music, many of them waving those little glow sticks that give off a bright green light for several hours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Although the band is certainly talented, the music is almost unbearably loud here, just a few yards from the stage itself. The crowd is too thick to allow you to move any closer to the band and, to be honest, you're not sure your ears could take it anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bridge", "response": "The east/west bridge spans the river, forming a tunnel that the paddle boats can traverse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. On the far side of the river a concert is being performed. An east/west bridge spans the river here, forming the tunnel through which the river flows below. You also notice a narrow gap between two of the shops to the west. A large crowd has gathered here, staring up at the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crowd", "response": "The crowd is staring expectantly at the sky to the north.\n\nSuddenly, a group of fez-wearing men rides past you on what look like brand new miniature cars. Their gold shirts read \"Nobles of the Ali Baba Temple of the Shrine - Hahira Delegation.\" The last driver beeps as he passes by, waving at you merrily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "River Walk (North)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the far northern portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. There is a dock to the east.\n\nYou can see an 'invisible box' (in which is a mime) here.\n\nThe mime pretends to climb a rope.\n\nSuddenly, a group of young men and women dashes past you. Their blue shirts read \"Young Democrats of Cherry Hill.\" The last one to pass by shouts \"We heart Hart!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is a business that rents paddle boats for people to use on the river. A man (Stan, presumably) is sitting in a cabana nearby. A few steps lead down to a dock in the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Stan", "response": "Stan is a blond middle-aged man with a dark tan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boats", "response": "People playfully paddle the little two-seat boats around the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Stan about the boats", "response": "\"I'm afraid we're all out at this end,\" he says. \"You'd better go see what my brother Steve has at the southern dock.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "River Walk (North)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the far northern portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. There is a dock to the east.\n\nYou can see an 'invisible box' (in which is a mime) here.\n\nThe mime sits on a invisible stool and ruminates on her problem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. On the far side of the river a concert is being performed. An east/west bridge spans the river here, forming the tunnel through which the river flows below. You also notice a narrow gap between two of the shops to the west. A large crowd has gathered here, staring up at the sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "River Walk (South)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the southernmost portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. Some kind of concert is being performed on the eastern side of the river. There is a dock to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is a business that rents paddle boats for people to use on the river. A man (Steve, presumably) is sitting in a cabana nearby. A few steps lead down to a dock in the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Steve", "response": "Steve is a blond middle-aged man with a dark tan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Steve about the boats", "response": "Steve's face lights up when he sees your shirt. \"All Gamers ride for free during the Diddlebucker Run,\" he says. \"You're in luck! We have one left. Go take her out for as long as you like. You can bring it back here or leave it at the north dock when you've finished.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "You make your way to the dock.\n\nThe waters of the river lap at the edges of the dock.\n\nYou can see a paddle boat here.\n\nYou get into the paddle boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "River (in the paddle boat)\nThe rush and bustle of the Diddlebucker seem oddly distant as you bob gently in the calm water. Off to the north, the bridge that spans the river forms a wide tunnel through which the water flows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "River (in the paddle boat)\nThe rush and bustle of the Diddlebucker seem oddly distant as you bob gently in the calm water. Just in front of you, the bridge that spans the river forms a wide tunnel through which the water flows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Tunnel (in the paddle boat)\nThis north/south tunnel runs through the bridge that spans the river here. Lanterns hanging from the ceiling provide a warm, inviting glow. In the middle of the tunnel floats a red and white striped paddle boat. Emblazoned on the front of the paddle boat is the smiling face of Diddy Esposito: founder, CEO and mascot of Diddlebucker Popcorn. A portly gentleman in a Panama hat smiles at you from his seat in the boat. On his lap you can see a pile of brightly colored cards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the cards", "response": "Before you can say anything, the portly gentleman raises a hand. \"No need to ask anything or perform any tricks,\" he says with a good-natured laugh. \"You've come this far and that's good enough for me.\" He tosses you a card from the pile in his lap. He then paddles his boat behind yours. \"Good luck to you, Gamer!\" he calls to you before giving your paddle boat a gentle shove with his own.\n\nRiver (in the paddle boat)\nThe rush and bustle of the Diddlebucker seem oddly distant as you bob gently in the calm water. Just to the south, the bridge that spans the river forms a wide tunnel through which the water flows. You can see a dock to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Dock (in the paddle boat)\nThe waters of the river lap at the edges of the dock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "As you step onto the dock, a group of three older men dashes past you and jumps into the paddleboat. Their red, white and blue shirts read \"Former Presidents of the United States.\" Your jaw drops in disbelief when Gerald Ford looks back and gives you a thumbs-up before he starts paddling the boat toward the tunnel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read second card", "response": "One side of the maremelade orange card bears a large number \"2.\" On the other is the following poem:\n\nMS. MNT IS SUPPOSED\nTO BE VERY VOCALIC\nBUT WHAT'S THE POOR WOMAN TO DO?\n\nYOU'LL KNOW THE FIRST WORD\nAND SHOULD GUESS THE SECOND ONE TOO", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a business that rents paddle boats for people to use on the river. A man (Stan, presumably) is sitting in a cabana nearby. A few steps lead down to a dock in the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "River Walk (North)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the far northern portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. There is a dock to the east.\n\nYou can see an 'invisible box' (in which is a mime) here.\n\nThe mime points to her balloons and then at you with a knowing smile on her face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mime", "response": "She is wearing traditional mime makeup, a striped shirt and long black trousers. She is holding a large collection of helium-filled balloons, each one a different color. Predictably, she is performing the \"mime trapped in an invisible box\" routine.\n\nThe mime pretends to climb a rope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nthe second maremelade orange riddle card\na long PVC pipe\na lighter\na check book\na chocolate chip cookie\nthe first maremelade orange riddle card\na glow stick (providing light)\na maremelade orange button (being worn)\nyour team shirt (being worn)\n\nThe mime points to her balloons and then at you with a knowing smile on her face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show second card to the mime", "response": "She's far too focused on her \"predicament\" to pay attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the pipe to the mime", "response": "You should SHOW things TO people instead.\n\nThe mime pretends to climb a rope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. On the far side of the river a concert is being performed. An east/west bridge spans the river here, forming the tunnel through which the river flows below. You also notice a narrow gap between two of the shops to the west.\n\nSuddenly, a group of men and women dashes past you. Their gray shirts identify them as \"The Implementers.\" One of them high-fives you while passing. The back of his shirt reads \"Berlyn.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "River Walk (South)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the southernmost portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. Some kind of concert is being performed on the eastern side of the river. A large crowd has congregated here, blocking passage to the east. They seem to be enjoying the view of the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Stepping out into moving traffic is a bad idea.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ladder", "response": "The ladder is securely fastened to the back wall of the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You ascend the ladder...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## Rooftop\nThis is the rooftop of one of the River Walk shops. The lights and sounds of the River Walk are fainter up here, but the view is fantastic. It offers a beautiful view of the River Walk below. It is connected to the roof of the store to the north\n\nYou can see a shabbily dressed man here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show second card to the man", "response": "\"Gamer, you'd better quit talking to me and get back to the Diddlebucker.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "River Walk (North)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the far northern portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. There is a dock to the east.\n\nYou can see an 'invisible box' (in which is a mime) here.\n\nSuddenly, a group of fez-wearing men rides past you on what look like brand new miniature cars. Their gold shirts read \"Nobles of the Ali Baba Temple of the Shrine - Hahira Delegation.\" The last driver beeps as he passes by, waving at you merrily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the box", "response": "Walking through the imaginary walls of the \"invisible box\" would ruin the illusion and disrupt the mime's performance.\n\nThe mime waves at passersby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show cookie to the mime", "response": "She's far too focused on her \"predicament\" to pay attention.\n\nSuddenly, a group of three older men dashes past you. Their red, white and blue shirts read \"Former Presidents of the United States.\" Your jaw drops as Richard Nixon gives you a thumbs-up on his way by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine second", "response": "One side of the maremelade orange card bears a large number \"2.\" On the other is the following poem:\n\nMS. MNT IS SUPPOSED\nTO BE VERY VOCALIC\nBUT WHAT'S THE POOR WOMAN TO DO?\n\nYOU'LL KNOW THE FIRST WORD\nAND SHOULD GUESS THE SECOND ONE TOO\n\nSuddenly, a group of elderly women wearing pink shirts dashes by you, nearly knocking you to the ground in the process. Their shirts read \"Quilting Ladies of Colonial Hills.\" The last one to pass smiles at you while making a rude gesture. She then cackles wickedly and hurries to catch up with her teammates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "River Walk (North)\nYou can see an 'invisible box' (in which is a mime) here.\n\nThe mime knocks on the walls of her \"prison.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the balloon", "response": "That seems to belong to the mime.\n\nThe mime waves at passersby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "River Walk (South)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Stepping out into moving traffic is a bad idea.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hail taxi", "response": "You whistle sharply and the taxicab pulls to the curb. You open the door and climb inside...\n\nThis is an older vehicle, but it's surprisingly clean. The pine tree air freshener is a nice touch. The cab driver sits in the front seat. You notice an instruction placard and an ID card affixed to the dashboard.\n\n\"Welcome back, Gamer!\" the driver says jovially.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Minute hand", "response": "\"Hmm... I don't know that place, Gamer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You open the door and step out of the taxicab...\n\nRiver Walk (South)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the southernmost portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. Some kind of concert is being performed on the eastern side of the river. A large crowd has congregated here, blocking passage to the east. They seem to be enjoying the view of the river.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in gold shirts knock you out of their way as they run past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Amusement park", "response": "\"Ok, here we go.\" The cabbie starts the meter and pulls into traffic. He expertly drives you through the city for several minutes before finally arriving at your destination. You pay the fee (plus a generous tip) by check and exit the cab. \"Good luck, Gamer!\" the cabbie calls to you through the window before pulling away.\n\nAmerican Dreamland is the largest and most popular amusement park in three states. You used to love coming here as a kid and you still try to make it at least once a year. Normally the park would be closing now, but normal rules don't apply during Diddlebucker weekend. Dozens of groups of people are filing past you and through the entrance to the north. A sign hanging above one of the turnstiles says \"Gamers enter here!\" You notice nobody going in through that line.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the turnstile", "response": "That's not something you can enter.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in gray and yellow shirts runs by. They are singing a classic showtune as they pass.\n\nThe taxicab disappears into the traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The employee greets you warmly as you approach the turnstile. \"Gamers get in free tonight!\" he says. You thank him, taking the map he offers you as you pass by.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## National Mall\nThis is the main avenue of the park that runs from the entrance to the south to the full size replica of the Statue of Liberty to the north. The avenue is illuminated by the alternating red, white and blue street lights, plus the hundreds of thousands of similarly colored mini-lights that cover the rooftops of the various shops and other establishments that line both sides of the avenue. A crowd of people fills the mall, talking, laughing and generally having a good time.\n\nYou look at the map the employee handed you. It shows the seven main areas of the park. Right now, you are in National Mall. The following locations are near you:\n\nStatue of Liberty is to the north.\nKiddie Land is to the northeast.\nVegas Strip is to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-east", "response": "This section of the park is dedicated to children. Given the hour, there are fewer guests in this section of the park than there normally would be, but there are still a few families with their children. There are several rides here, but you exceed the height limitations on every ride but one: The Haunted House.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine House", "response": "This is one of those dark ride attractions that takes place completely indoors. You take a tour through a \"haunted house\" in a train of cars. Throughout the ride, different specters, ghouls and other assorted creatures try to frighten the guests. As it is a ride in Kiddie Land, none of the scares are especially frightening.\n\nYou notice something different about the crowd here at the amusement park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crowd", "response": "The park guests seem to be enjoying themselves. You do not see any Diddlebucker shirts among them. Perhaps you are the first to make it this far!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ride house", "response": "There is a sign placed in front of the waiting area. It reads \"This ride is temporarily closed. We apologize for the inconvenience.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This ride is the centerpiece of the park. This full-scale replica of Lady Liberty reaches 305 feet in the air and towers over every other attraction here. It is the most recognizable symbol of American Dreamland.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb Statue", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ride statue", "response": "You wait in line for quite a while before getting a chance to board the elevator with several other park guests. Eventually, the elevator stops, the doors open and you step out...\n\nStatue of Liberty (Crown)\nThe nighttime view from up here is simply breathtaking. As you look out through the open-air windows in the crown you can see the other places you have visited tonight. The River Walk is off to the south. You can just make out the lights of the concert that is still going on. Off to the east is the downtown area. Somewhere among the skyscrapers is Cleveland Avenue and the Convention Center where this all began. You stare at the sights for several moments, transfixed. Eventually, you tear yourself away from the view and take the elevator back down...\n\nThis ride is the centerpiece of the park. This full-scale replica of Lady Liberty reaches 305 feet in the air and towers over every other attraction here. It is the most recognizable symbol of American Dreamland.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the map", "response": "This is a map of American Dreamland. It shows the seven main areas of the park. Right now, you are in Statue of Liberty. The following locations are near you:\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is to the north.\nThe Great Smoky Mountains is to the northeast.\nLiberty Circle is to the northwest.\nNational Mall is to the south.\nKiddie Land is to the east.\nVegas Strip is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "This is the area of the park which is dedicated to roller coasters. Some of the fastest and tallest roller coasters in the country can be found right here. Normally, you'd jump at the chance to ride Mount Thunderhead or maybe take a spin on The Hatfields & The\nMcCoys, but tonight this area of the park is just way too busy.\nEvery ride looks like it has a wait time of at least an hour or more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Thunderhead", "response": "It's the tallest roller coaster in the world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hatfields", "response": "This wooden roller coaster features two parallel tracks. Two trains of cars \"race\" each other to see which one can complete the ride first. It is one of the oldest and most popular rides in the park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is the gaming section of the theme park. Dozens of carnival-style games line each side of the strip, each one offering a dazzling array of prizes to be won. A crowd of people gathers around each game, cheering the contestants. You see the following games nearby:\n\nWhack-A-George\nGuess Your Age & Weight\nThe Paul Bunyan\nSink the Fink", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine George", "response": "This is like Whack-A-Mole except instead of trying to smack moles with a mallet as they pop up out of their holes, you are trying to smack little figures of King George III.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play george", "response": "The barker watches your approach with interest. \"All right, Gamer,\" she says. \"No charge tonight. All you have to do is watch those kings pop up and smack 'em on the head before they go back down.\" She hands you a mallet before stepping back and pressing a button. Immediately, the little kings start popping out of their holes! You take a swing... [PRESS ANY KEY TO SWING]\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\nBOP!\n\n\"Hey, not bad,\" the barker says as she takes the mallet from your hand. \"You got sixteen out of twenty! That's almost good enough for a prize!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the fink", "response": "Benedict Arnold is jeering at the crowd from the tank, using what is probably an historically inaccurate cockney accent. He spots you right away and manages to insult your lineage, your country, your hair, your shirt and your pets before you even get to the assistant who hands you three balls. \"Nyah, nyah, yeh can't hit nuttin' wi' tose arms,\" he taunts.\n\n\"You get three tries, Gamer,\" the assistant says to you while Arnold continues his jeering. \"Good luck!\" You bring back your arm and whip the ball at the target...\n\nFWISH!\n\nFWISH!\n\nFWISH!\n\n\"Sorry, Gamer,\" the assistant says, retrieving the errant balls while Benedict Arnold guffaws obnoxiously from his secure spot on the platform. \"Better luck next time!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play guess", "response": "\"Old or tall, young or small! Step right up, we guess 'em all!\" says the barker as you approach the game. \"Ah, we have a Gamer tonight!\" he continues. \"Come on up, Gamer, let me amaze you with my extrasensory, telepathic and transmundane ability to guess your weight within ten pounds and your age within ten years! If I can't do at least\none of those, you win a prize!\"\n\nYou step up to the platform...\n\nThe barker gives you a quick glance and guesses your age exactly right. \"Better luck next time, Gamer!\" he calls to you as you step away from the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the alamo", "response": "The barker grins as you approach. \"Step right up, Gamer and let's see what you got! Gamers play free tonight, of course!\" He hands you a rifle. \"Wait for the bell and then shoot the little Texans when they pop up! So simple even a baby can do it!\" He steps back and presses a button. A bell rings and suddenly, the little Texans start popping up everywhere! You take aim...\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\nBANG!\n\n\"Haw, haw!\" chortles the barker as he takes the rifle from your hand. \"You got yourself eight out of ten, Gamer! Not bad! Not bad at all. But not good enough for a prize, either. Better luck next time!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play paul", "response": "\"Step right up, step right up!\" the barker shouts to the crowd as you approach. \"It's time to separate the men from the boys and the women from the girls! Take a swing, ring the bell and get a prize!\" The barker notices you then and grins broadly. \"Here's a champ if I ever saw one,\" he shouts, handing you a large, heavy mallet. \"You get three swings, Gamer. Let's see what you've got!\" You lift the mallet high over your head and swing it down as hard as you can...\n\nBOOM!\n\nBOOM!\n\nBOOM!\n\n\"Good arm,\" the barker says as he takes the mallet from your hand. \"You got the puck two-thirds of the way up! Hit it just a little harder next time and you might win a prize!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play paul", "response": "\"Step right up, step right up!\" the barker shouts to the crowd as you approach. \"It's time to separate the men from the boys and the women from the girls! Take a swing, ring the bell and get a prize!\" The barker notices you then and grins broadly. \"Here's a champ if I ever saw one,\" he shouts, handing you a large, heavy mallet. \"You get three swings, Gamer. Let's see what you've got!\" You lift the mallet high over your head and swing it down as hard as you can...\n\nBOOM!\n\nBOOM!\n\nBOOM!\n\n\"Good arm,\" the barker says as he takes the mallet from your hand. \"You got the puck three-fourths of the way up! Hit it just a little harder next time and you might win a prize!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Hawaiian Islands Water Park is one of the top rated water parks in the nation. Normally the water park closes before the rest of the park, but they've brought in extra lights to keep it open later than usual. Although the sun set a while ago, it is still quite warm, so there is a sizeable crowd here. Some changing rooms are off to the northeast. The nearby attractions are:\n\nMaui Madness\nAloha River", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "This is about what you'd expect from a changing room. This is where park guests change in and out of their swimsuits.\n\nYou can see some lockers here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Change", "response": "Why bother?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ride lanes", "response": "A park employee appears out of nowhere and stops you. \"Park rules state that guests must wear a swimsuit when riding any ride in the water park,\" she says before disappearing into the crowd.\n\nSomething about a young couple walking by catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the couple", "response": "You recognize the girl. She is the representative that checked you in back at the Convention Center! The couple is wearing matching swimsuits the exact same maremelade orange as your team shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask couple about the swimsuits", "response": "\"What's that?\" the young man asks. His eyes flicker briefly towards your shirt. \"Oh...the swimsuits. Do you like them? You know, oddly enough, we do have some extras. Brand new, never worn. We\nmight be willing to part with one of them. What do you think, dear?\" He turns to his companion.\n\n\"Hmm...maybe,\" she says. \"You know, we're big fans of American history,\" she continues. \"Tell you what, bring us something with the face of our thirtieth president on it and we'll let you have one of our extra swimsuits. We'll be in the water park all night. Come back here when you have something!\" With that, the couple turns away and starts discussing which attraction to go on next.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the madness", "response": "This is a dark tunnel slide. Each rider sits in an inner tube and slides through the darkness of a completely enclosed tunnel of incredibly fast curves and steep drops.\n\nThe young couple disappears into the crowd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the typhoon", "response": "On this ride, two people share a figure-eight-style inner tube as they slide through numerous twists and turns, before exiting through a waterfall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine River", "response": "This is a lazy river ride that encircles the water park. Park guests can float along in an inner tube or just swim without one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The center of this area of the park is dominated by the \"White House Tours\" attraction designed to look like the actual White House in Washington, D.C.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine House", "response": "This is more of an attraction than a standard ride. On the outside, it looks just like The Executive Mansion in Washington D.C. The inside is a theater, where guests view a documentary about the American Presidency which culminates in a live presentation by animatronic versions of the thirty-nine men who have been President of the United States.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter House", "response": "A park employee apologizes. \"Unfortunately, we just started a presentation a few minutes ago. Please try back later.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the map", "response": "This is a map of American Dreamland. It shows the seven main areas of the park. Right now, you are in Liberty Circle. The following locations are near you:\n\nVegas Strip is to the south.\nStatue of Liberty is to the southeast.\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is to the east.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is the main avenue of the park that runs from the entrance to the south to the full size replica of the Statue of Liberty to the north. The avenue is illuminated by the alternating red, white and blue street lights, plus the hundreds of thousands of similarly colored mini-lights that cover the rooftops of the various shops and other establishments that line both sides of the avenue. A crowd of people fills the mall, talking, laughing and generally having a good time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shops", "response": "You study the different stores closely. The name of each shop is related to some aspect of Americana. The stores you see nearby are:\n\nJohnny Applepies\nThe Star Spangled Banquet\nUncle Sam-wiches\nThe Columbian\nSilent Cal's Cookies\nHoosier Hospitality\nThe May-Flour\nThe Boston T-Shirt Party\nColora-Donuts\nMinnesodas\nRocky Rhode Island", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter silent", "response": "This cookie shop is designed to reflect the art deco sensibilities of the 1920's. The shop is fairly crowded, but you do notice one unoccupied table in a corner. An exit to the west leads outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It is a small table with a chair next to it. There is a napkin dispenser in the middle of the table.\n\nOn the table is a napkin dispenser (in which is a paper napkin).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine napkin", "response": "Which do you mean, the napkin dispenser or the paper napkin?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paper", "response": "It bears the likeness of Calvin Coolidge eating a gigantic snickerdoodle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the paper", "response": "Taken.\n\nAs you pick up the napkin, a commotion causes you to turn your head. A group of Gamers has just burst into the shop. Their cream and crimson shirts simply say \"Hoosiers.\" They run around the shop desperately looking for clues, but find nothing. One white-haired Gamer throws a chair across the room in frustration before following his teammates out the door.\n\n(It looks like you are no longer the only Gamer to get this far.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Suddenly, a group of Gamers in gray and yellow shirts runs by. They are singing an old sea shanty as they pass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Suddenly, a group of Gamers dashes by. Their neon shirts read \"BTTF Forever!\" The last one shouts \"Great Scott!\" as she passes by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the people", "response": "The park guests seem to be enjoying themselves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nSomething about a young couple walking by catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show napkin to the couple", "response": "The young couple looks pleased. \"That will look great in our collection!\" he says, taking the napkin from you. The young woman agrees. \"Well, a deal is a deal,\" she says, opening a nylon bag she carries slung over one shoulder. She rummages about in the bag. \"Let's see, it's Smith., isn't it? Here it is,\" She tosses you a swimsuit. \"Wear it well!\" The couple turns away, admiring the napkin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the swimsuit", "response": "(the maremelade orange swimsuit)\nThe maremelade orange swimsuit has the word \"Easterbunniesâ´\" printed vertically down the left side and \"Smith.\" horizontally across the backside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You can see some lockers here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Change", "response": "You change into the swimsuit. You put everything else in a locker and head back out to the main area of the water park.\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is one of the top rated water parks in the nation. Normally the water park closes before the rest of the park, but they've brought in extra lights to keep it open later than usual. Although the sun set a while ago, it is still quite warm, so there is a sizeable crowd here. Some changing rooms are off to the northeast. The nearby attractions are:\n\nMaui Madness\nAloha River", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ride typhoon", "response": "You stand in line for quite a while. Eventually, you are paired up with a middle-aged woman. You both get into the inner tube and, after a signal from the worker to your right, it begins ascending a hill. As you near the top, the sounds of the crowd and the attractions die away. Up here, under the night sky, it seems oddly peaceful. But you know that sense of peace won't last, for you eventually reach the peak of the hill. And then...\n\nYour heart leaps into your throat as you fly down the hill! Your companion looks completely terrified while you just try your best to hold on as the inner tube zips through one turn, dashes over a series of hills, flies through a series of curves and finally exits through a waterfall, completely drenching you both. Laughing weakly, the two of you climb out of the inner tube and high five one another before heading off in different directions......\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is one of the top rated water parks in the nation. Normally the water park closes before the rest of the park, but they've brought in extra lights to keep it open later than usual. Although the sun set a while ago, it is still quite warm, so there is a sizeable crowd here. Some changing rooms are off to the northeast. The nearby attractions are:\n\nMaui Madness\nAloha River", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ride madness", "response": "The line of guests leads up a winding staircase and it takes a long time before you reach the top, where you can finally see the dark mouth of the tunnel. You watch for several more minutes as guest after guest goes screaming into that darkness. Finally, it is your turn! The park employee helps you into an inner tube. You barely have a chance to prepare yourself before he gives your tube a shove and you slide down into the void...\n\nYou feel as if you are flying through the dark tunnel. Water sloshes all around you as your inner tube spins, bumps and twirls through the dark.\n\nYour stomach lurches as you take a sharp left...\n\nYou feel as if you are flying through the dark tunnel. Water sloshes all around you as your inner tube spins, bumps and twirls through the dark.\n\nYour heart skips a beat as you take a sharp right...\n\nYou feel as if you are flying through the dark tunnel. Water sloshes all around you as your inner tube spins, bumps and twirls through the dark.\n\nYou gasp in surprise as you drop down a steep incline...\n\nYou finally burst from the darkness and land in a shallow pool of water. What a rush! Wiping the water from your eyes, you shakily hand the inner tube to a park employee and make your way back to the main area of the water park...\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is one of the top rated water parks in the nation. Normally the water park closes before the rest of the park, but they've brought in extra lights to keep it open later than usual. Although the sun set a while ago, it is still quite warm, so there is a sizeable crowd here. Some changing rooms are off to the northeast. The nearby attractions are:\n\nMaui Madness\nAloha River", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ride lanes", "response": "You stand in line for quite a while, ascending a staircase with the other guests. When you finally get to the top, you are matched up with six other riders. You are in the second lane. Although the view up here is spectacular, you're far too focused on the race ahead of you. After a few tense seconds, the park employee blows her whistle and you're off! You slide\n\nAs you come to the end of the slide you realize that you came in seventh place. Oh well, at least the ride was fun!\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is one of the top rated water parks in the nation. Normally the water park closes before the rest of the park, but they've brought in extra lights to keep it open later than usual. Although the sun set a while ago, it is still quite warm, so there is a sizeable crowd here. Some changing rooms are off to the northeast. The nearby attractions are:\n\nMaui Madness\nAloha River", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lanes", "response": "This giant water slide is several lanes wide, allowing for multiple riders to race one another on their way down.\n\nSuddenly, a group of elderly women wearing pink shirts dashes by you, nearly knocking you to the ground in the process. Their shirts read \"Quilting Ladies of Colonial Hills.\" The last one to pass smiles at you while making a rude gesture. She then cackles wickedly and hurries to catch up with her teammates.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Hawaiian Islands Water Park is one of the top rated water parks in the nation. Normally the water park closes before the rest of the park, but they've brought in extra lights to keep it open later than usual. Although the sun set a while ago, it is still quite warm, so there is a sizeable crowd here. Some changing rooms are off to the northeast. The nearby attractions are:\n\nMaui Madness\nAloha River\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers dashes by. Their lime-colored shirts read \"University Debate Team.\" The last one shouts \"Be it resolved that Smith. will lose big!\" as she passes by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ride river", "response": "Unlike the other attractions, there isn't really a line for the Aloha River. This lazy river ride encircles the water park. As the water is very shallow, park guests can either swim or float along in one of the inner tubes already in the water.\n\nAloha River (Southeast)\nYou opt to go without an inner tube, rather than wait for an available one. This ride is actually quite relaxing. You float on your back for a while and gaze at the night sky. You forget about the other park guests around you and drift lazily in the water.\n\nSuddenly, a group of elderly men in plaid swimsuits swims by you. Their swimsuits read \"Golfing Grandpas of Golden Acres.\" The last one to float by salutes you in a friendly way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe water currents carry you around the bend...\n\nAloha River (East)\nYou are floating lazily in the river ride that encircles the water park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "It is so much more relaxing to just float on your back and let the water carry you along with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water currents carry you around the bend...\n\nAloha River (North)\nYou are floating lazily in the river ride that encircles the water park.\n\nYou can see an inflatable ball here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ball", "response": "Taken.\n\nSuddenly, a group of teenagers floats past you in yellow inner tubes. Their green and orange swimsuits read \"Dungeon Masters of Southport.\" The last one to pass points at you and shouts \"Sopio!\" before laughing and paddling the inner tube after her teammates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ball", "response": "The ball has red and white stripes and is roughly the size of a volleyball.\n\nThe water currents carry you around the bend...\n\nAloha River (West)\nYou are floating lazily in the river ride that encircles the water park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water currents carry you around the bend...\n\nAloha River (Southwest)\nYou are floating lazily in the river ride that encircles the water park.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAs relaxing as this is, you really need to get back to the Diddlebucker. With a sigh, you stand up and exit the ride...\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is one of the top rated water parks in the nation. Normally the water park closes before the rest of the park, but they've brought in extra lights to keep it open later than usual. Although the sun set a while ago, it is still quite warm, so there is a sizeable crowd here. Some changing rooms are off to the northeast. The nearby attractions are:\n\nMaui Madness\nAloha River", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You can see some lockers here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Change", "response": "You get your things from the locker, change into your regular clothes and head back out to the main area of the water park.\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is one of the top rated water parks in the nation. Normally the water park closes before the rest of the park, but they've brought in extra lights to keep it open later than usual. Although the sun set a while ago, it is still quite warm, so there is a sizeable crowd here. Some changing rooms are off to the northeast. The nearby attractions are:\n\nMaui Madness\nAloha River", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "Suddenly, a group of Gamers in black and pink shirts runs past. One of them points at you and laughs on his way by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter House", "response": "You walk up to the entrance and a park employee ushers you inside...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The house lights have been dimmed in this large theater facing a white screen to the north. Although you've always enjoyed White House Tours, it isn't nearly as popular as the other rides and attractions and right now you are the only one here. There is an exit to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "There is a big screen in your way.\n\nYou decide to take a seat and wait for the show to start.\n\nWhite House Tours (on the seat)\nThe house lights have been dimmed in this large theater facing a white screen to the north. Although you've always enjoyed White House Tours, it isn't nearly as popular as the other rides and attractions and right now you are the only one here. There is an exit to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nPatriotic music begins to play and the house lights go out just as three more park guests make their way into the theater and sit down in the front row. You make yourself comfortable in your seat as the voice of James Earl Jones begins recounting the early days of the American Presidency......\n\nThe documentary has reached the post-World War II presidencies. You notice that the three men in the front row seem completely transfixed by what is happening on the screen. In the flickering light of the projector you can just make out the names \"Nixon,\" \"Ford\" and \"Carter\" on the backs of their shirts. You continue watching the movie...\n\nThe movie ends with an appropriate fanfare as the screen retracts into the ceiling. The stage lights come up dramatically, illuminating the thirty-nine animatronic representations of the Presidents of the United States standing there. The three men in the front row go absolutely wild with whoops and hollers as each of the different \"Presidents\" on stage acknowledges its introduction by James Earl Jones with a wave and a nod of its head. There is much high-fiving and slapping on the back when Jones reads the names of the thirty-seventh, thirty-eighth and thirty-ninth Presidents....\n\nThe presentation comes to a triumphant conclusion with a stirring speech by \"Abraham Lincoln.\" The house lights come up and the three men in the front row make their way back out the exit to the east, leaving you alone in the theater. You notice that the stage lights were left on for some reason.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "(first getting off the seat)\nYou stand up.\n\nThe House lights are dimmed, but the screen has been retracted into the ceiling, fully exposing the stage behind it to the north, which is illuminated by the stage lights. Although you've always enjoyed White House Tours, it isn't nearly as popular as the other rides and attractions and right now you are the only one here. There is an exit to the east.\n\nYou are on the stage with thirty-nine animatronic representations of the Presidents of the United States.\n\nYou can see a powdered wig here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the wig", "response": "You put on the powdered wig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Presidents", "response": "You give the \"Presidents\" a cursory glance. They are all amazingly lifelike. A great deal of skill and effort was put into making each one resemble the original. Up here on the stage, you notice something you hadn't noticed while watching from your seat; each one seems to be holding something in its left hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You head back outside.\n\nThe center of this area of the park is dominated by the \"White House Tours\" attraction designed to look like the actual White House in Washington, D.C.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play age", "response": "\"Old or tall, young or small! Step right up, we guess 'em all!\" says the barker as you approach the game. \"Ah, we have a Gamer tonight!\" he continues. \"Come on up, Gamer, let me amaze you with my extrasensory, telepathic and transmundane ability to guess your weight within ten pounds and your age within ten years! If I can't do at least\none of those, you win a prize!\"\n\nYou step up to the platform...\n\nThe barker looks at you for several moments, a sly smile on his face. Finally, he guesses your age. He guesses nine years older than you actually are. \"Better luck next time, Gamer!\" He calls to you as you step away from the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ball", "response": "(the inflatable ball)\nYou stuff the inflatable ball under your shirt. Your belly now looks considerably bigger.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in gray and yellow shirts runs by. They are singing a classic showtune as they pass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play guess", "response": "\"Old or tall, young or small! Step right up, we guess 'em all!\" says the barker as you approach the game. \"Ah, the Gamer's back!\" He continues. \"Lucky for you I don't remember what I guessed last time! Come on up, Gamer, let me amaze you again with my extrasensory, telepathic and transmundane ability to guess your weight within ten pounds and your age within ten years!\"\n\nYou step up to the platform...\n\nThe barker looks at you for several moments, a sly smile on his face. Finally, he guesses your age. He guesses seven years older than you actually are. \"Better luck next time, Gamer!\" He calls to you as you step away from the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na powdered wig (being worn)\na map\nthe second maremelade orange riddle card\na long PVC pipe\na lighter\na check book\na chocolate chip cookie\nthe first maremelade orange riddle card\na glow stick (providing light)\na maremelade orange button\nyour team shirt (being worn)\nan inflatable ball (being worn)\na maremelade orange swimsuit\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers dashes by. Their neon shirts read \"BTTF Forever!\" The last one shouts \"What are you lookin' at, Butthead?\" as she passes by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter may", "response": "This is a bakery that sells everything from elephant ears to cupcakes. It is very crowded in here, even at this time of night. There is a long line of people waiting to order. There is an exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the line", "response": "The park guests seem to be enjoying themselves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You entethe colora-donuts", "response": "As you might expect, this shop sells dozens of varieties of donuts. It is very crowded in here, even at this time of night. There is a long line of people waiting to place their orders. There is an exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Suddenly, a group of teenagers dashes by. Their green and orange shirts read \"Dungeon Masters of Southport.\" The last one to pass points at you and shouts \"Adnexus!\" before laughing and chasing after his teammates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the island", "response": "This is an ice cream shop that boats \"1776 different flavors,\" which you assume is an exaggeration. It is very crowded in here, even at this time of night. Every table is occupied and there is a long line of people waiting to order their ice cream. There is an exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You entethe t-shirt", "response": "This shop sells all kinds of T-shirts featuring different attractions at the park. It is very crowded in here, even at this time of night. There is a long line of people waiting to purchase their shirts. There is an exit to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examinthe t-shirts", "response": "The shirts have been pretty thoroughly picked over. For example, the only shirts left promoting the \"White House Tour\" attraction bear the likeness of William Henry Harrison.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the minnesodas", "response": "This is a soda shop. You can get everything from plain cola to milkshakes here. The shop is very crowded, even at this time of night. There is a long line of people waiting to place their orders. There is an exit to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the Uncle", "response": "This is a sandwich shop that specializes in foot-long sub sandwiches. It is very crowded in here, even at this time of night. Every table is occupied and there is a long line of people waiting to order their food. There is an exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cakes", "response": "This shop sells the largest bundt cakes you have ever seen! You see one cake roughly the size of a car tire. The shop is very crowded, even at this time of night. There is a long line of people waiting to place their orders. There is an exit to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cake", "response": "Although many are normal cakes, there are some truly large specimens as well. You have no idea if people eat these cakes in one sitting, carry them around the park or what.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the cake with the check", "response": "The shop is crowded and the line is way too long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cake", "response": "If you want to buy a cake, just say so.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the cake", "response": "You must state what you would like to buy the bundt cakes with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Suddenly, a group of Gamers in brown shirts rudely shove you out of the way as they run by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the Hospitality", "response": "Hoosier Hospitality is where park guests go when they are in need of medical assistance. It is unlikely that there are any clues there.\n\nSuddenly, a group of men and women dashes past you. Their gray shirts identify them as \"The Implementers.\" One of them high-fives you while passing. The back of his shirt reads \"Galley.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter Banquet", "response": "This is a cafeteria-style restaurant. The food appears to be mostly American comfort food: biscuits, gravy, fried chicken, roast beef, etc. Your stomach growls at the sight and smell of it all. It is very crowded in here, even at this time of night. Every table is occupied and there is a long line of people waiting to order their food. There is an exit to the east.\n\nYou can see a cane here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cane", "response": "It's a simple wooden cane with a curved handle and a rubber tip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "Suddenly, a group of Gamers in silver and blue shirts runs past you, making rude comments about your last name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the map", "response": "This is a map of American Dreamland. It shows the seven main areas of the park. Right now, you are in The Great Smoky Mountains. The following locations are near you:\n\nKiddie Land is to the south.\nStatue of Liberty is to the southwest.\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play guess", "response": "\"Old or tall, young or small! Step right up, we guess 'em all!\" says the barker as you approach the game. \"Ah, the Gamer's back!\" He continues. \"Lucky for you I don't remember what I guessed last time! Come on up, Gamer, let me amaze you again with my extrasensory, telepathic and transmundane ability to guess your weight within ten pounds and your age within ten years!\"\n\nYou step up to the platform...\n\nThe barker looks at you for several moments, a sly smile on his face. Finally, he guesses your age. He guesses several decades\nolder than you actually are! You take off the powdered wig and do a little dance without being aided by the cane. The barker laughs uproariously at your antics. \"Ok, Gamer,\" he says. \"You got me. Just remember, I have to get both your age and weight\nwrong for you to win!\"\n\nThe barker studies you again. He takes much longer this time before finally making his guess. His guess is twenty pounds too\nheavy! You take the inflatable ball out of your shirt and dribble it around the platform to the delight of the barker. \"You have gall, Gamer!\" he says with a hearty laugh. \"Here, take your prize. You earned it!\" He tosses you some kind of toy. You thank him and step away from the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine toy", "response": "It's a soft foam hammer designed to look like a medieval weapon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "As you pass through the exit turnstile, an employee gives you a big smile. \"Good luck, Gamer and have a great evening!\" she says as you walk past.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## American Dreamland", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for the cab", "response": "You wait for the taxi. After several moments, you see one coming down the street.\n\nYou whistle sharply and the taxicab pulls to the curb. You open the door and climb inside...\n\nThis is an older vehicle, but it's surprisingly clean. The pine tree air freshener is a nice touch. The cab driver sits in the front seat. You notice an instruction placard and an ID card affixed to the dashboard.\n\n\"Welcome back, Gamer!\" the driver says jovially.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "River Walk", "response": "\"Ok, here we go.\" The cabbie starts the meter and pulls into traffic. He expertly drives you through the city for several minutes before finally arriving at your destination. You pay the fee (plus a generous tip) by check and exit the cab. \"Good luck, Gamer!\" the cabbie calls to you through the window before pulling away.\n\nRiver Walk (South)\nThe River Walk is truly one of the most majestic sights of the city, especially now that the sun has set. This is the southernmost portion of the Walk. Many shops and restaurants line the western side, each lit with festive hanging lights, which reflect prettily in the water of the river to the east. Some kind of concert is being performed on the eastern side of the river. A large crowd has congregated here, blocking passage to the east. They seem to be enjoying the view of the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Suddenly, a group of Gamers dashes by. Their neon shirts read \"BTTF Forever!\" The last one shouts \"Great Scott!\" as she passes by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "River Walk (North)\nYou can see an 'invisible box' (in which is a mime) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the box with the hammer", "response": "Lifting the hammer high above your head, you strike a mighty blow against the invisible \"walls\" that imprison the mime. She falls to her knees and covers her head as if protecting it from thousands of shards of glass. After a moment, she stands up with a look of delight on her face. Free of her imaginary prison, she walks over to you. Wordlessly (of course) she hands you one of the balloons she was carrying. She then gives you a little curtsy before skipping away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine balloon", "response": "The balloon matches the exact maremelade orange of your team shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "River Walk (South)\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for cab", "response": "The taxicab is already here!\n\nYou whistle sharply and the taxicab pulls to the curb. You open the door and climb inside...\n\nThis is an older vehicle, but it's surprisingly clean. The pine tree air freshener is a nice touch. The cab driver sits in the front seat. You notice an instruction placard and an ID card affixed to the dashboard.\n\n\"Welcome back, Gamer!\" the driver says jovially.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The employee greets you warmly as you approach the turnstile. \"Gamers get in free tonight!\" he says. You thank him as you pass by.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## National Mall", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the map", "response": "This is a map of American Dreamland. It shows the seven main areas of the park. Right now, you are in National Mall. The following locations are near you:\n\nStatue of Liberty is to the north.\nKiddie Land is to the northeast.\nVegas Strip is to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the map", "response": "This is a map of American Dreamland. It shows the seven main areas of the park. Right now, you are in Statue of Liberty. The following locations are near you:\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is to the north.\nThe Great Smoky Mountains is to the northeast.\nLiberty Circle is to the northwest.\nNational Mall is to the south.\nKiddie Land is to the east.\nVegas Strip is to the west.\n\nSuddenly, a group of young men and women dashes past you. Their blue shirts read \"Young Democrats of Cherry Hill.\" The last one to pass by shouts \"We heart Hart!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter House", "response": "You walk up to the entrance and a park employee ushers you inside...\n\nThe house lights have been dimmed in this large theater facing a white screen to the north. Although you've always enjoyed White House Tours, it isn't nearly as popular as the other rides and attractions and right now you are the only one here. There is an exit to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "(first getting off the seat)\nYou stand up.\n\nThe House lights are dimmed, but the screen has been retracted into the ceiling, fully exposing the stage behind it to the north, which is illuminated by the stage lights. Although you've always enjoyed White House Tours, it isn't nearly as popular as the other rides and attractions and right now you are the only one here. There is an exit to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hand", "response": "You look closer and realize that each \"President\" is holding a uniquely colored card in its left hand! Now that you know what to look for, you study each \"President\" much more closely. Finally, you find it! In the left hand of \"Andrew Johnson\" you find the third maremelade orange riddle card! You carefully remove the card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine third", "response": "One side of the maremelade orange card bears a large number \"3.\" On the other is the following poem:\n\nBUT YOU MUST DO SOMETHING\nAND HERE IS YOUR CLUE:\n\nSING TO THE RIGHT MAN\nTO MOVE ON IN THIS GAME", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hammer", "response": "It's a soft foam hammer designed to look like a medieval weapon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "What do you want to sing?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the alphabet", "response": "(to yourself)\nYou hum quietly to yourself.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are on the stage with thirty-nine animatronic representations of the Presidents of the United States.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Cleveland", "response": "Grover Cleveland carries himself with a quiet dignity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Ford", "response": "Gerald R. Ford carries himself with a quiet dignity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the map", "response": "This is a map of American Dreamland. It shows the seven main areas of the park. Right now, you are in Statue of Liberty. The following locations are near you:\n\nHawaiian Islands Water Park is to the north.\nThe Great Smoky Mountains is to the northeast.\nLiberty Circle is to the northwest.\nNational Mall is to the south.\nKiddie Land is to the east.\nVegas Strip is to the west.\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in gold shirts knock you out of their way as they run past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "This is the area of the park which is dedicated to roller coasters. Some of the fastest and tallest roller coasters in the country can be found right here. Normally, you'd jump at the chance to ride Mount Thunderhead or maybe take a spin on The Hatfields & The\nMcCoys, but tonight this area of the park is just way too busy.\nEvery ride looks like it has a wait time of at least an hour or more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This section of the park is dedicated to children. Given the hour, there are fewer guests in this section of the park than there normally would be, but there are still a few families with their children. There are several rides here, but you exceed the height limitations on every ride but one: The Haunted House.\n\nYou can see a park employee here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the employee", "response": "Like every employee here, this one has a cheerful look on his face. His nametag says \"Kirk.\" He is eating a piece of cake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the alphabet to Kirk", "response": "You start to sing...\n\nQRSTUV\nWXY and Z!\nNow I know my ABC's\nNext time won't you sing with me?\n\nKirk eyes you nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cake", "response": "It appears to be chocolate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Kirk about the cake", "response": "\"It's delicious! One of my coworkers baked it for me today.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Kirk about Diddlebucker", "response": "It's glorious!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing team to Kirk", "response": "You don't know the words to that song.\n\nSuddenly, a group of men and women dashes past you. Their gray shirts identify them as \"The Implementers.\" One of them high-fives you while passing. The back of his shirt reads \"Bates.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine third", "response": "One side of the maremelade orange card bears a large number \"3.\" On the other is the following poem:\n\nBUT YOU MUST DO SOMETHING\nAND HERE IS YOUR CLUE:\n\nSING TO THE RIGHT MAN\nTO MOVE ON IN THIS GAME\n\nSuddenly, a group of Gamers in black and pink shirts runs past. One of them points at you and laughs on his way by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sing the happy birthday to Kirk", "response": "You start to sing...\n\nHappy birthday to you!\nHappy birthday to you!\nHappy birthday, dear Kiiirrrrrk!\nHappy birthday to you!\n\nKirk applauds your singing with a big smile. \"Thank you, Gamer!\" he says. \"And very well done. That deserves a prize.\" He pulls something out of his pocket and hands it to you. It is a maremelade orange pencil topper shaped like a little tombstone. \"You know,\" he continues, \"I think the ride might be ready to re-open. If you'll just follow me.\" He turns and leads you into the Haunted House.....\n\nThe interior of the Haunted House is, not unexpectedly, fairly dark. A series of black cars connected to a track slowly passes by and leads into a tunnel. Kirk directs you to enter one of the cars. Your car follows the others into the darkness...\n\nMelancholy music plays as you continue through the tunnel. A sinister voice begins to describe the history of the house and all of the gruesome happenings that have taken place there. You exit the tunnel into a Victorian-style living room full of cobwebs, skeletons and other macabre props and decorations. Some movement out of the corner of your eye causes you to turn in your seat. You just catch a glimpse of something flying towards your face before the world suddenly explodes into a thousand stars which are then swallowed by a spinning, dark void...\n\nThe room is completely dark, you can't move and right now all you can focus on is the incredible pain in your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "The room is completely dark, you can't move and right now all you can focus on is the incredible pain in your head.\n\nYour head starts to feel a little better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "The room is completely dark, you can't move and right now all you can focus on is the incredible pain in your head.\n\nThe pain in your head has diminished to a dull throb. Suddenly, the lights come on in the room!\n\nEmployees Only (on the chair)\nThis is a nondescript room. Based on the muffled sounds of sinister music and other sound effects, you can guess that it is one of the backstage rooms of the Haunted House ride that is only accessible to employees. You can't see a door from your position in the chair, so you assume it must be in the south wall behind you.\n\nYou can see a desk (on which is a phone book) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You find that your arms and legs are securely tied to the chair. You are unable to move.\n\nYou hear a door open behind you and the sound of someone entering the room. Your jaw drops open as two people step into view...it can't be! But it is. Your former teammates Lori and David are standing in front of you, each pointing a gun at your heart. \"What's up, Smith.?\" Lori asks by way of greeting. \"Having fun playing the Diddlebucker?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "\"Well,\" she says,\"unfortunately for you, it's not likely to get any better. You see...\" She stops suddenly and cocks her head to one side as if listening to something. \"They've stopped the ride,\" she says to David. \"You'd better go take a look,\" David says. \"Don't worry. I'll keep an eye on our friend here.\" Lori nods and faces you again. \"Ok, look, we're going to make this easy,\" she says, tossing a maremelade orange card onto your lap. \"That's the last riddle card. You're going to solve it for us or we're going to kill you. You have five minutes.\" She disappears from view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the riddle", "response": "The maremelade orange card is face up on your lap. On the side that you can see is the following poem:\n\nBUT SHE'S ALSO A SON\nGET HERE FIRST WITH THE TREASURES\nAND YOU WILL HAVE WON!\n\nHETOL\n\nYou hear the door open and close behind you.\n\nDavid suddenly lowers his gun and kneels down in front of you and begins untying your bonds. \"I'll need to put these ropes back on you before Lori gets back,\" he says. He stuffs the ropes into a pocket. \"Ok, listen carefully,\" he says. \"We don't have a lot of time. Here's the deal. After you asked Lori and me to join your Diddlebucker team, she started thinking and she came to the conclusion that it would be better to split the winnings two ways instead of three. She, and I'm sorry to say this, but she didn't think you'd really be much help. She always thought of herself as the brains of our little group. Anyway, this morning she told me that you had called her and said you were sick and wouldn't be able to play. She said you had asked her to be the new team captain. I didn't know anything about the letter until we got to the Convention Center and we saw you throwing our shirts away. You should have seen her searching through the garbage for them! She was furious! She had to tell me the whole story then. See, she was convinced you'd give up and go home when you got that letter and that we'd be able to play the Diddlebucker ourselves and split the money. But, to be honest, I don't think she ever intended to split the money with me either.\" He holds the gun up. \"The gun she gave me has blanks,\" he says. \"I checked it out when she wasn't looking. She certainly was prepared, I'll give her that. And I'm pretty sure hers doesn't have blanks...\"\n\n\"I'm guessing she intended to let me help her solve the clues and then planned to find some way to get rid of me before we got to the last location. Then, the prize money would all be hers. You messed that up though by not only staying in the game, but by solving the clues faster than anyone else. I pretended to go along with her so I could keep an eye on her and try to protect you if things got out of hand, which they obviously did. We were stuck trailing after you and trying not to be seen. But that changed when we got to American Dreamland. Lori used to work here in high school, remember? She knows\nall about the secret tunnels under this place and how to get to the \"employees only\" sections of the park. After we followed you here, she led us into one of the tunnels so we could plan our next move. But when we got there, we heard voices. Just around the corner in the tunnel a couple of Diddlebucker reps were talking and we were able to figure out that this ride held the last clue. We snuck on using the service entrance, found the clue card and then hid behind one of the coffins waiting for you to show up...\"\n\n\"The thing is, Lori isn't as clever as she thinks she is. She can't figure this card out. And I can't either. And if we don't come up with some kind of answer for her, things are going to get ugly. I know it's not fair, but you're going to have to solve the riddle for her, even if that means letting her win. We don't have time for me to sneak you out of here while she's still on the ride. If you give her the answer, she'll have to keep you alive long enough to check it out to make sure you were right. My guess is she'll ask me to watch you while she goes off to win the money, with some kind of promise that she'll split it with me when she returns. That will give us time to get out of here. I don't think she suspects me of wanting to double-cross her. We can go to the police then. It means you won't win the game, but you'll be alive.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Hotel in the phone book", "response": "You find several listings under the section for \"Hotels and Lodging.\" They are:\n\nThe Cassiopeia Inn\nThe Danbury Hotel\nThe Frederick Inn\nThe Holland Odyssean Hotel\nThe Kilhenny Hotel\nThe Meridian Hotel\nThe Quarternary Inn\nThe Somewhither Inn\nThe Grand Vermillion\nThe Yorkshire Inn", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the holland odyssean", "response": "(to David)\nYou should ASK people ABOUT things instead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask David about the holland odyssean", "response": "\"We're wasting time!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask David about Diddlebucker", "response": "\"We're wasting time!\"\n\nA grinding noise startles both of you. \"The ride has started up again!\" he says. \"I won't be able to hear Lori coming down the hall now.\"\nDavid begins tying you to the chair again. \"I'm sorry I have to do this,\" he says, \"but if Lori finds out I untied you, we're both done for.\" Just as he finishes up, the door opens and Lori steps into the room...\n\nLori is once again pointing a gun at your chest. She turns her head slightly in David's direction, but never takes her eyes off of you. \"It turns out they're only running the ride for Gamers who are ready for the final clue,\" she says. \"That's why we heard it stop. Unfortunately, it started up again as I was making my way back.\" She turns her head fully in your direction. \"That means we're out of time, Smith.. What's the answer to the riddle?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Holland Odyssean Hotel", "response": "Lori grabs the riddle card and scans it. A scowl comes across her face. \"That answer doesn't make any sense, Smith.\" she says. \"If you can't help us solve the riddle, I guess you are of no further use to us.\" She aims her gun at you. David runs toward her as her finger squeezes the trigger. He's fast, but not fast enough. It looks like, for you, this is...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "The Holland Odyssean Hotel", "response": "Lori grabs the riddle card and scans it. An uncertain look comes across her face. \"That might be it,\" she says to David. \"I'm not sure. What do you think?\" David gives you a quick look before studying the card. You notice his hands tremble slightly. \"Yes,\" he says, after few very tense moments. \"Yes, that's it! That's the answer!\" Seemingly reassured by his response, Lori laughs. \"I'm...that is we're\ngoing to be rich, David! Rich!\" David plays his part well, laughing along with her. \"Now,\" Lori continues, \"there's just the matter of the treasures. When we brought you here, we searched you and put your possessions in the desk drawer. Let's just see what you managed to find, shall we?\"\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)Employees Only (on the chair)\nThis is a one of the backstage rooms of the Haunted House ride that is only accessible to employees. There is a door in the southern wall.\n\nYou can see Lori, David and a desk (on which is a phone book) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nLori opens the desk drawer using a key she had in her pocket. \"All right,\" she says, \"there are four treasures. You're going to tell me what they are. You're going to tell the truth and you're going to tell me quickly, or else...\"\n\nLori holds up the maremelade orange swimsuit. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Lori keeps the maremelade orange swimsuit.\n\nLori holds up the inflatable ball. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the inflatable ball on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the maremelade orange button. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Lori keeps the maremelade orange button.\n\nLori holds up the glow stick. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the glow stick on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the chocolate chip cookie. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the chocolate chip cookie on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the check book. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the check book on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the lighter. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the lighter on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the long PVC pipe. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the long PVC pipe on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the map. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the map on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the powdered wig. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the powdered wig on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the cane. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the cane on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the foam hammer. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the foam hammer on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the maremelade orange balloon (deflated). \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Lori keeps the maremelade orange balloon (deflated).\n\nLori holds up the maremelade orange pencil topper. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Lori keeps the maremelade orange pencil topper.\n\nLori looks at the items she is carrying. \"You'd better be telling me the truth about these,\" she says. \"David's going to keep an eye on you while I head to the hotel. If everything goes as planned, I'll come back with the money and we'll let you go free, won't we David?\" David nods. \"Of course we will,\" he says. \"However,\" Lori continues, \"if things do not go as planned...well, that would be very\nunfortunate for you.\" Satisfied that she has made her point, Lori leaves the room...\n\nDavid unties you from the chair. \"I don't know how much of what you told her is true,\" he says, \"but if you still have a chance to win the Diddlebucker, you should take it. There's a short hallway outside this room. Go up the staircase at the end and you'll find a door that will lead you outside. I'm going to the police. I'll tell them everything. Don't worry, Lori's not going to get away with this. Good luck!\" David leaves the room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Employees Only (on the chair)\nThis is a one of the backstage rooms of the Haunted House ride that is only accessible to employees. There is a door in the southern wall.\n\nYou can see a desk (on which are a foam hammer, a cane, a powdered wig, a map, a long PVC pipe, a lighter, a check book, a chocolate chip cookie, a glow stick, an inflatable ball and a phone book) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "foam hammer: Taken.\ncane: Taken.\npowdered wig: Taken.\nmap: Taken.\nlong PVC pipe: Taken.\nlighter: Taken.\ncheck book: Taken.\nchocolate chip cookie: Taken.\nglow stick: Taken.\ninflatable ball: Taken.\nphone book: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first getting off the chair)\n\nThis is a short north/south hallway that leads from the small room to the north to a staircase at the southern end. There are a few passages on either side of the hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You ascend the staircase and push through the door...\n\nThis section of the park is dedicated to children. Given the hour, there are fewer guests in this section of the park than there normally would be, but there are still a few families with their children. There are several rides here, but you exceed the height limitations on every ride but one: The Haunted House.\n\nThe first rays of sunlight are just coming up in the east. You'd better hurry. You're running out of time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This ride is the centerpiece of the park. This full-scale replica of Lady Liberty reaches 305 feet in the air and towers over every other attraction here. It is the most recognizable symbol of American Dreamland.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is the main avenue of the park that runs from the entrance to the south to the full size replica of the Statue of Liberty to the north. The avenue is illuminated by the alternating red, white and blue street lights, plus the hundreds of thousands of similarly colored mini-lights that cover the rooftops of the various shops and other establishments that line both sides of the avenue. A crowd of people fills the mall, talking, laughing and generally having a good time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "As you pass through the exit turnstile, an employee gives you a big smile. \"Good luck, Gamer and have a great day!\" she says as you walk past.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## American Dreamland\nAmerican Dreamland is the largest and most popular amusement park in three states. You used to love coming here as a kid and you still try to make it at least once a year. Normally the park would be closing now, but normal rules don't apply during Diddlebucker weekend. Dozens of groups of people are filing past you and through the entrance to the north. A sign hanging above one of the turnstiles says \"Gamers enter here!\" You notice nobody going in through that line.\n\nA taxicab drives down the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for cab", "response": "The taxicab is already here!\n\nYou whistle sharply and the taxicab pulls to the curb. You open the door and climb inside...\n\nThis is an older vehicle, but it's surprisingly clean. The pine tree air freshener is a nice touch. The cab driver sits in the front seat. You notice an instruction placard and an ID card affixed to the dashboard.\n\n\"Welcome back, Gamer!\" the driver says jovially.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Holland Odyssean Hotel", "response": "\"Ok, here we go.\" The cabbie starts the meter and pulls into traffic. He expertly drives you through the city for several minutes before finally arriving at your destination. You pay the fee (plus a generous tip) by check and exit the cab. \"Good luck, Gamer!\" the cabbie calls to you through the window before pulling away.\n\nThe Holland Odyssean Hotel (Outside)\nThe Holland Odyssean is one of the finer hotels in the city. Due to its unique Gothic architectural style, it has been featured in many movies and TV shows over the years. The entrance to the hotel is to the east and the road is behind you to the west. The sidewalk continues to the north and south.\n\nNearby, a small group of people is crowded around a portable stereo, listening intently to a news broadcast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the stereo", "response": "You hear nothing unexpected.\n\nLori suddenly marches out of the hotel, a look of muderous rage on her face. You stand frozen in terror, wondering what could have possessed you to follow her here. She sees you instantly and whips her gun out of a pocket. \"You were stupid enough to follow me after lying\nto me?\" she screams. \"Sorry, but it's game over for you, Smith.!\" She squeezes the trigger and it looks like you have reached...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Employees Only (on the chair)\nThis is a one of the backstage rooms of the Haunted House ride that is only accessible to employees. There is a door in the southern wall.\n\nYou can see David and a desk (on which is a phone book) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at phone book", "response": "This is a listing of all of the businesses in the city, organized by type. So, to find \"Henry's Burgers\" you would need to look under \"restaurants.\" To look something up in the phone book, say \"CONSULT PHONE BOOK ABOUT [TOPIC].\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You consult the phone book about the hotels", "response": "You find several listings under the section for \"Hotels and Lodging.\" They are:\n\nThe Cassiopeia Inn\nThe Danbury Hotel\nThe Frederick Inn\nThe Holland Odyssean Hotel\nThe Kilhenny Hotel\nThe Meridian Hotel\nThe Quarternary Inn\nThe Somewhither Inn\nThe Grand Vermillion\nThe Yorkshire Inn", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine card", "response": "One side of the maremelade orange card bears a large number \"4.\" On the other is the following poem:\n\nBUT SHE'S ALSO A SON\nGET HERE FIRST WITH THE TREASURES\nAND YOU WILL HAVE WON!\n\nHETOL", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA grinding noise startles both of you. \"The ride has started up again!\" he says. \"I won't be able to hear Lori coming down the hall now.\"\nDavid begins tying you to the chair again. \"I'm sorry I have to do this,\" he says, \"but if Lori finds out I untied you, we're both done for.\" Just as he finishes up, the door opens and Lori steps into the room...\n\nLori is once again pointing a gun at your chest. She turns her head slightly in David's direction, but never takes her eyes off of you. \"It turns out they're only running the ride for Gamers who are ready for the final clue,\" she says. \"That's why we heard it stop. Unfortunately, it started up again as I was making my way back.\" She turns her head fully in your direction. \"That means we're out of time, Smith.. What's the answer to the riddle?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the maremelade orange swimsuit on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the inflatable ball. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Lori keeps the inflatable ball.\n\nLori holds up the maremelade orange button. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the maremelade orange button on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the glow stick. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Lori keeps the glow stick.\n\nLori holds up the chocolate chip cookie. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the chocolate chip cookie on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the check book. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the check book on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the lighter. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Lori keeps the lighter.\n\nLori holds up the long PVC pipe. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Lori keeps the long PVC pipe.\n\nLori holds up the map. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the map on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the powdered wig. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the maremelade orange balloon (deflated) on the desk.\n\nLori holds up the maremelade orange pencil topper. \"Is this one of the treasures?\" she asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Lori drops the maremelade orange pencil topper on the desk.\n\nLori looks at the items she is carrying. \"You'd better be telling me the truth about these,\" she says. \"David's going to keep an eye on you while I head to the hotel. If everything goes as planned, I'll come back with the money and we'll let you go free, won't we David?\" David nods. \"Of course we will,\" he says. \"However,\" Lori continues, \"if things do not go as planned...well, that would be very\nunfortunate for you.\" Satisfied that she has made her point, Lori leaves the room...\n\nDavid unties you from the chair. \"I don't know how much of what you told her is true,\" he says, \"but if you still have a chance to win the Diddlebucker, you should take it. There's a short hallway outside this room. Go up the staircase at the end and you'll find a door that will lead you outside. I'm going to the police. I'll tell them everything. Don't worry, Lori's not going to get away with this. Good luck!\" David leaves the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "maremelade orange pencil topper: Taken.\nmaremelade orange balloon (deflated): Taken.\nfoam hammer: Taken.\ncane: Taken.\npowdered wig: Taken.\nmap: Taken.\ncheck book: Taken.\nchocolate chip cookie: Taken.\nmaremelade orange button: Taken.\nmaremelade orange swimsuit: Taken.\nphone book: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first getting off the chair)\n\nThis is a short north/south hallway that leads from the small room to the north to a staircase at the southern end. There are a few passages on either side of the hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You ascend the staircase and push through the door...\n\nThis section of the park is dedicated to children. Given the hour, there are fewer guests in this section of the park than there normally would be, but there are still a few families with their children. There are several rides here, but you exceed the height limitations on every ride but one: The Haunted House.\n\nThe first rays of sunlight are just coming up in the east. You'd better hurry. You're running out of time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "As you pass through the exit turnstile, an employee gives you a big smile. \"Good luck, Gamer and have a great day!\" she says as you walk past.\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)## American Dreamland\nAmerican Dreamland is the largest and most popular amusement park in three states. You used to love coming here as a kid and you still try to make it at least once a year. Normally the park would be closing now, but normal rules don't apply during Diddlebucker weekend. Dozens of groups of people are filing past you and through the entrance to the north. A sign hanging above one of the turnstiles says \"Gamers enter here!\" You notice nobody going in through that line.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for the cab", "response": "You wait for the taxi. After several moments, you see one coming down the street.\n\nYou whistle sharply and the taxicab pulls to the curb. You open the door and climb inside...\n\nThis is an older vehicle, but it's surprisingly clean. The pine tree air freshener is a nice touch. The cab driver sits in the front seat. You notice an instruction placard and an ID card affixed to the dashboard.\n\n\"Welcome back, Gamer!\" the driver says jovially.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ashley Donaldson Hotel", "response": "\"Ok, here we go.\" The cabbie starts the meter and pulls into traffic. He expertly drives you through the city for several minutes before finally arriving at your destination. You pay the fee (plus a generous tip) by check and exit the cab. \"Good luck, Gamer!\" the cabbie calls to you through the window before pulling away.\n\nThe Ashley Donaldson Hotel (Outside)\nThe Ashley Donaldson Hotel is on the south side of the sidewalk. Its steel and glass towers are a stunning example of postmodern architecture. Over forty stories tall, it is the largest hotel in the city. A revolving restaurant at the top of the tallest tower provides patrons with a breathtaking view of the cityscape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The Ashley Donaldson Hotel (Lobby)\nYou have always dreamed of staying in the Ashley Donaldson someday. The stories of its elegance and splendor are legendary. If the lobby is any indication, the stories were underselling the reality. The chandeliers! The ornate wood trim! The sparkling fountains! The impeccably uniformed workers! You could spend the rest of the day just taking in the grandeur of the lobby, but there isn't time. You have to keep moving. You notice an elevator to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Even the elevator doors are inlaid with gold at the Ashley Donaldson. There is an up button next to the doors.\n\nYou can see an imposing guard here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show button to guard", "response": "(the maremelade orange button to the imposing guard)\nThe guard nods, takes the maremelade orange button from you and puts it in his briefcase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the topper to the guard", "response": "The guard nods, takes the maremelade orange pencil topper from you and puts it in his briefcase.\n\nFor the first time, the guard smiles. \"Congratulations, Gamer,\" he rumbles. He presses the up button. The elevator doors open and the guard gestures for you to enter. You step into the elevator...\n\nThis elevator rides up and down the southern side of the hotel. It's outside walls are made of glass, giving the rider a spectacular view of the hotel grounds and the city beyond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the city", "response": "The reddish glow of the rising sun reflects off of some of the nearby skyscrapers.\n\nThe elevator rises...\n\nThis elevator rides up and down the southern side of the hotel. It's outside walls are made of glass, giving the rider a spectacular view of the hotel grounds and the city beyond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe elevator rises...\n\nThis elevator rides up and down the southern side of the hotel. It's outside walls are made of glass, giving the rider a spectacular view of the hotel grounds and the city beyond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe elevator rises...\n\nThis elevator rides up and down the southern side of the hotel. It's outside walls are made of glass, giving the rider a spectacular view of the hotel grounds and the city beyond.\n\nThe elevator comes to a stop and the doors open. You step out...\n\nThis elegant restaurant sits atop the tallest tower of the Ashley Donaldson Hotel.\n\n\"CONGRATULATIONS!!!!\" You are suddenly surrounded by hundreds of Diddlebucker employees, celebrities, reporters and other well-wishers all shouting, applauding and cheering like crazy. Balloons and confetti rain down from the ceiling and somewhere a band is playing The Stars and Stripes Forever. You are herded to the center\nof the crowd where a stage has been erected. On the stage, Diddy Esposito awaits with a giant check made out to you in the amount of one million dollars! The crowd goes crazy as you accept the check and Diddy shakes your hand...\n\n(PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE)Hours later, all of the interviews with the local and nationwide newscasters are finally over. You've given your report to the police and Lori is safely behind bars. The crowd has mostly dispersed and you finally have a moment to catch your breath. Diddy agreed that David deserved to win as much as you did and the three of you are sitting in a quiet corner of the restaurant discussing the night's events and your futures.\n\n\"You know,\" Diddy says, \"as great as the money and the lifetime supply of popcorn are, they aren't really the best part of being Diddlebucker Champions.\" You and David look at each other. This certainly piques your interest. What could be better than winning a fortune plus a lifetime supply of popcorn? \"Come with me,\" Diddy says. \"I want to introduce you two to some friends of mine.\"\n\nYou follow Diddy through a door into the kitchen area. Standing there are all of the people you met tonight during the Diddlebucker! Cindy is here, along with the shabbily dressed man from the rooftop, Kirk, Cecil who sold you the Atom Smasher, the mime, the saxophone player, the barker and even Tony the taxi driver along with dozens of other people that seem vaguely familiar. You turn to Diddy \"I don't understand,\" you admit. \"What is all this?\"\n\n\"Well, you see,\" Diddy says, \"I only accept the best and brightest into my team of Game Makers. So, I figure, who better to make and run the Diddlebucker Run than the former Diddlebucker Champions themselves? It takes a lot of prep and a lot of brains to put one of these together, you know. You are now part of an elite group. A very highly paid elite group, I should say. Planning for next\nyear's Diddlebucker Run starts next week at my beachside mansion if you two are willing to join us. What do you say?\"\n\nYour wide smiles are all the answer Diddy needs...\n\nCongratulations! You have successfully completed\nDiddlebucker!", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "Australian", "built-in map", "compass status display", "cover art", "female protagonist", "homosexual", "horror", "house setting", "IF Comp 2010", "IFComp Game", "mystery", "profanity", "psychological", "thriller", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2010" ]

[ 3, 18, 13, 2, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Help : H\nStart a New Game : (SPACE)\nRestore : R\nQuit : Q\n\nIMPORTANT: If this is your first time playing The Blind House, please type H and read the Introduction to The Blind House for some general guidelines on how to play.\n\nTwo women. Overcoats, the collars turned against the cold. Windswept hair, anxious eyes. Feet shuffling closer to a modest house.\n\nThe taller woman, a step behind her companion, suppresses a shiver. Her jaw hardens, almost imperceptibly.\n\nGraphicless version of competition release - for ClubFloyd.\n\nThe wind howls at our backs as Marissa fumbles with the lock on the front door. Her little fingers, the tips blue and shrunken, seem to struggle with the bulky mortice key. I bite down on my impatience before it has a chance to flare.\n\nIt is uncertainty that holds me back from assisting. It's not exactly by invitation that I find myself here - more, by necessity - so my grasp of social propriety is somewhat shaken. My nerves, already on edge, are further stirred by the unseasonal cold and I rub my hands together, more as something to occupy my mind than as a genuine attempt to fight the numbness.\n\nAt last, the lock clicks open and Marissa pushes the door open. \"Sorry,\" she murmurs. \"Come in. Please.\" I oblige without delay, stepping into the relative warmth and darkness of Marissa's entry hall. The dimness, the overall drop in stimulation, is soothing. I try not to look too disappointed when she flicks on the light switch.\n\n\"Is there anything... can I get you something?\" Marissa's eyes avoid mine as she delicately shrugs off her coat. I get the distinct impression she's not accustomed to playing hostess and I feel an inconvenient twinge of guilt. I mentally stomp on it. Now is not the time for self-doubt.\n\n[1] \"I'm fine. Thank you, Marissa.\"\n[2] \"Please, don't worry about me. I'm just thankful to be... out of the wind.\"\n[3] \"I'm... actually very tired. Would you mind showing me to somewhere I could sleep?\"\n\n[To respond in dialogue, enter a number, or enter \"repeat\" to reacquaint yourself with the options.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"Yes. Yes, of course.\" She pauses for a moment, staring, then blushes and looks away. \"I'll show you the... your room. There are extra blankets in the cupboard if... if it's cold tonight.\"\nWe are half way down the hall before I even register we have started walking.\n\nHelena's Bedroom (on the bed)\n\nMarissa closes the door behind her and I sigh in relief, sinking down on the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Helena. I'm neatly dressed in a beige overcoat, a white blouse and modest brown skirt. My pale hair follows the curve of my spine in a long, but practical, plait.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "Helena. I'm holding together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "Feeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my beige overcoat and my blouse and skirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the knife", "response": "It's a clean, ordinary kitchen knife.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the knife", "response": "I suppose it's for self-defence, but I feel an inexplicable queasiness when I think about it. Something happened last night that I don't wish to contemplate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "It's a single-sized bed, with a panelled bedhead and deep blue duvet. There is a minimal bedside table next to the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hair", "response": "White-blonde. Even plaited, it nearly reaches my hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the duvet", "response": "Dark blue. It looks warm.\n\nI struggle against the exhausted trembling of my hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear duvet", "response": "(first trying to take the duvet)\nI have no reason to take that.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Helena's Bedroom (on the bed)\nThis is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, reflected in a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is a closed door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "There's a mirror facing the foot of the bed. I can't see much reflected in it from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "(first getting off the bed)\nThe room dips threateningly as I get to my feet. My limbs attempt to tremble; I suppress them impatiently. Sleeping somewhere so foreign to me will be difficult, but I must be near collapsing from exhaustion. I should at least try to get some rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cupboard", "response": "An oak linen cupboard, imposingly tall and square-edged. Bevelled double-doors hang above a large drawer at the base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "My bedroom door. It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The window mostly looks out onto the fence between Marissa's property and her neighbour's. The fence itself is plain chain-link, but some privacy is offered by the climbing rose vine.\n\nEvening approaches. It is still light outside, though the sky is dreary.\n\nCream-coloured venetian blinds are in their compressed position above the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the bed", "response": "I sit down on the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Doff overcoat", "response": "I... no, not right now. My coat gives me a certain feeling of security. I'll take it off later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "I'm so tired that my hands are trembling involuntarily, but I'm just not comfortable enough to sleep yet. If only I could make this room feel safer, somehow. It's light in here, and I feel uneasy about my door being unlocked.\n\nThe mirror facing the bed stares back at me, menacing.\n\nFatigue plucks at the edges of my consciousness. It's getting late.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the mirror", "response": "A hazy memory from last night wavers at the periphery of my mind. I feel my skin prickle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "(first getting off the bed)\nWith what key?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, reflected in a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is a closed door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Sliding open the drawer, I impatiently wave away the wispy cloud of dust that floats forth. I can see some paintings stacked up inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the paintings", "response": "A stack of old paintings. They can't have been touched for years - even inside the drawer, they've somehow managed to accumulate a thin layer of dust. Their subjects all seem to be women relaxing together in various settings - under parasols in a scenic park, by a fireplace in a cosy living room, lazing on a drifting canal boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You opethe double-doors", "response": "I open the cupboard doors. Peering inside, I see a few shelves covered in neatly-folded bed linens.\n\nMy vision is fading around the edges. I need to sleep, as soon as possible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take linens", "response": "I take a single blanket from the shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blanket on the window", "response": "That would be pointless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blanket", "response": "It's a cream synthetic blanket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cover the mirror with the blanket", "response": "I throw the blanket over the mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the blinds", "response": "I close the blinds.\n\nMy eyes take but a moment to adjust; the darkness is soothing.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is a closed door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "I open my bedroom door.\n\nLight radiates back into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "My bedroom door. It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter door", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is a door which I can only assume leads to the master bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "(the east door)\nI knock gently on the east door.\n\nThere is no response. I don't think Marissa's in there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the east door", "response": "I knock gently on the east door.\n\nThere is no response. I don't think Marissa's in there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the east door", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is a door which I can only assume leads to the master bedroom.\n\nI struggle against the exhausted trembling of my hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Hallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. Doors in the east and west walls lead to other rooms. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is an open door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The blinds are closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "I close my bedroom door.\n\nMy eyes take but a moment to adjust; the darkness is soothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "My bedroom door. It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "With what key?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "My bedroom door. It's closed.\n\nMy vision is fading around the edges. I need to sleep, as soon as possible.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is a closed door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the bed", "response": "I sit down on the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "I'm so tired that my hands are trembling involuntarily, but I'm just not comfortable enough to sleep yet. If only I could make this room feel safer, somehow. I feel uneasy about my door being unlocked.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Helena's Bedroom (on the bed)\nThis is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is a closed door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cupboard", "response": "An oak linen cupboard, imposingly tall and square-edged. Bevelled double-doors hang above a large drawer at the base.\n\nThe double-doors hang open, revealing several shelves covered in bed linens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "(first getting off the bed)\nThat's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stab linens", "response": "I'm loath to encourage such violence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening my bedroom door)\nHallway\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is a door which I can only assume leads to the master bedroom.\n\nMy vision is fading around the edges. I need to sleep, as soon as possible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first opening the hallway door)\nLiving Room\nIt's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is a display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible through the glass.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway and doors in the east and west walls lead to other rooms. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "The dining table is so tiny it's almost square.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chairs", "response": "A pair of dining chairs flank each side of the little table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cabinet", "response": "The cabinet is dark timber with a glass panel. I can see some strange-looking ornaments lining a shelf inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ornaments", "response": "I'm a little taken aback by the ornaments. They're crude and disfigured, limbs out of proportion and faces melted into disturbing expressions - screams, sighs, grimaces. They're certainly not what I would choose to display in my own living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A nondescript alcove separates the front door from the living area to the north. Two large windows here allow a little light to permeate the otherwise dull living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "What an unconscionable thought. No. I'm not safe out there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "It's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is a display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible through the glass.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway and doors in the east and west walls lead to other rooms. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(first opening the west door)\nKitchen\nThe kitchen has a dated feel to it; a laminate bench runs around two walls of the room, and white tiles line the wall above an aging sink and stove. An old fridge is tucked into the far corner of the room, and several potted plants decorate the bench around the spotless appliances.\n\nA calendar and old-fashioned cordless phone hang on the wall near the door leading east.\n\nMy vision is fading around the edges. I need to sleep, as soon as possible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "It's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is a display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible through the glass.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to another room. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first trying to open the east door)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Hallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. Doors in the east and west walls lead to other rooms. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(first opening the west door)\nBathroom\nThe bathroom is modestly sized and equipped, and as pristine as a hospital room. A white basin faces the door, a small mirrored cabinet attached to the wall above it. A toilet and shower are fixed against the north and south walls respectively. Just left of the doorway on the east wall is a small plastic table, covered in toiletries and other miscellany.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Hallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. A door in the west wall leads to the bathroom and a door in the east wall leads to another room. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the east door)\nStudio\nThis is surely an artist's studio. The concrete-floored room gives the impression of spaciousness simply because of how empty it is: an artist's easel sits right in the centre of the space, with an expensive-looking chair facing it. A floor-length window on the east wall adds to the discomforting sense of open space. The north wall, bare-bricked, looks strangely out of character with the painted walls of the rest of the house. The door is set into the west wall.\n\nMarissa, apparently deep in concentration, doesn't even glance up from her painting as I enter the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Marissa", "response": "Marissa turns her eyes upon me, questioning.\n\n[1] \"Is there a key to my room?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Marissa fiddles nervously with her blouse. It strikes me how unnecessarily frilly the thing is; she certainly has plenty to fiddle with. \"Is it not by the bedside? I must've forgotten, sorry. A minute...\"\n\nI watch her patter down the hallway and dart into my room. Her desire to take care of me seems more genuine than is warranted - or deserved, I catch myself thinking. Before last month, we had not seen each other since sixth form at college, years ago. She had no real reason to help me, no real reason to bring me to her home today.\n\nOn the other hand, it seems pointless to question her motives when I'm unable to clarify even my own. Last night... I didn't know what to do. She just happened to be the one I remembered. Maybe I thought I could be anonymous here. Safe.\n\nMaybe I just knew she'd be unable to refuse.\n\nI see Marissa walking back down the hall towards me, an odd look on her face. A vague look, I think. Something approaching regret stirs in me - maybe it's my own unease that has flustered her into losing keys. \"Here,\" she says, dropping the key into my expectant palm, \"I'm sorry.\" I manage to suppress a grimace as she places a well-meaning hand on my injured arm.\n\n\"I know having a key must be important to you now,\" she goes on, \"but... you'll be safe here, you know. I don't think anyone could have followed us.\"\n\n[1] \"Thank you for understanding.\"\n[2] \"I'm sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you.\"\n[3] \"It's difficult to be certain of that. Thanks for the key.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the arm", "response": "[To respond in dialogue, enter a number, or enter \"repeat\" to reacquaint yourself with the options.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "She smiles uncertainly and returns to her painting.\n\nI struggle against the exhausted trembling of my hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the arm", "response": "They're tender.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about arm", "response": "They're fine. They'll be fine.\n\nMarissa's brush flicks deftly against the canvas as she refines some small detail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Hallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. A door in the west wall leads to the bathroom and a door in the east wall leads to Marissa's studio. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "(with my bedroom door key)\nI lock my bedroom door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the bed", "response": "I sit down on the bed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "I double-check the lock on the door and undress in the dark, tossing my clothes onto a shelf in the wardrobe. The bedsheets are comfortingly crisp against my skin.\n\nI am so thoroughly exhausted that - blissfully - I drift off to sleep almost immediately and am not forced to endure the company of my thoughts for long.\n\nNightmares chase me for hours.\nBut I'm already on the bed.\nI wake suddenly, disoriented.\n\nThe room is dark and I have neither clock nor watch, but I feel certain it is not yet dawn. There is a strange splattering noise coming from outside; it takes me a moment to register it as rain.\n\nThe window rattles in the wind and the blinds chatter against the pane. I stand, my bare flesh prickling in the cold, and wander over to the window. The blinds seem damp and I wonder if the window is leaking. Moisture beads, brims, overflows in a pattern that seems chillingly familiar. The slats - so sharp - are not slats: they are knives, and the knives are in my hands. Rivulets of auburn bleed into the rain, plasmatic. Red stains spreading to the rhythm of the rattling window.\nA gasp sounds as I bring the knives down again. My gasp. I wake again - properly - my heart racing painfully. Awake. Thank god.\nHelena's Bedroom (on the bed)\nThis is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is a closed door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.\n\nIt is dark in here, but I can still make out the room around me.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Helena's Bedroom (on the bed)\nThis is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is a closed door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.\n\nIt is dark in here, but I can still make out the room around me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in cupboard", "response": "(first opening the linen cupboard)\nInside the cupboard are a few shelves covered in neatly-folded bed linens. My overcoat is in here, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the overcoat", "response": "(first trying to take the beige overcoat)\nI don't need it just now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about House", "response": "Feeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against my bedroom door key and the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my blouse and skirt.\n\n>I'm not sure what that refers to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "My arms are a mess. I'll have to clean them up before going back to bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the arms", "response": "My arms look terrible. The blood is fresh and bright, the cuts underneath about a day old. They must have been aggravated as I slept.\n\nRunning some water over my arms might help to relieve the heat and itching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first unlocking my bedroom door with my bedroom door key, then opening my bedroom door)\nHallway\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is a door which I can only assume leads to the master bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Hallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. A door in the west wall leads to the bathroom and a door in the east wall leads to Marissa's studio. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The bathroom is modestly sized and equipped, and as pristine as a hospital room. A white basin faces the door, a small mirrored cabinet attached to the wall above it. A toilet and shower are fixed against the north and south walls respectively. Just left of the doorway on the east wall is a small plastic table, covered in toiletries and other miscellany.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "I close the bathroom door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the sink", "response": "I turn on the basin tap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wash arms", "response": "I run some cool water over my itching forearms. Bloodied water swirls down the drain, stark against the white of the basin.\n\nOddly, there seems to be some redness under my fingernails, too. I pick out some dried flakes and wash them away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine arms", "response": "With the blood cleaned away, the gashes on my arms are exposed, looking like so many horrid red mouths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toiletries", "response": "An assortment of feminine toiletries. Nothing unexpected.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "(first trying to open the medicine cabinet)\nIt seems to be locked.\n\n>It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search table", "response": "On the plastic table are some toiletries, a perfume bottle, a packet of plasters, a bottle of hair dye and a vase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plasters", "response": "A 50-pack of adhesive bandages.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vase", "response": "A traditional tall vase in green glazed ceramic. A few browning flowers hang wilted over the lip of the vase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the sink", "response": "That's already off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hair dye", "response": "It's a bottle of hair dye. Auburn #602.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the perfume", "response": "A pretty, tulip-shaped glass bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bandage arms", "response": "With what?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bandage arms with bandages", "response": "(first trying to take the packet of plasters)\n(first opening the packet)\nI take a handful of plasters and slip them into my skirt pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine arms", "response": "With the blood cleaned away, the gashes on my arms are exposed, looking like so many horrid red mouths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bandage arms with bandages", "response": "(the plasters in my pocket)\nI count out twenty plasters - ten for each arm - and methodically peel off each strip of backing paper and stick them in place.\n\nSomething wobbles in my peripheral vision. I snap my head up and stare at the mirror, at once on edge. Nothing. Only my reflection staring back at me. The odour of blood must be affecting my senses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bandage bandage with bandage", "response": "(first trying to take the plasters)\nI'd rather leave the plasters where they are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the arms", "response": "They're clean and plastered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "I find myself unable to focus on the mirror. My vision fills with black when I try to look at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "As I turn to leave, the surface of the mirror draws my eye; it seems, impossibly, to waver and shimmer. I pinch my forehead, trying to stay in the present, but memories from last night overwhelm my conscious mind. A struggle with a knife. A woman, her name I can't recall - only her eyes: angry tunnels, and then suddenly lifeless. Stunned regret supplanted by terror. Fumbling to clean the fast-coagulating mess. Running. Calling the only number I could focus on. Marissa's gentle concern, innocent of the reason for my distress.\n\nEnough. I'm safe here. I should try to sleep again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the bathroom door)\nHallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. A door in the west wall leads to the bathroom and a door in the east wall leads to Marissa's studio. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is a door which I can only assume leads to the master bedroom.\n\nI can hear a strange muffled sound here, almost like a human voice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the east door", "response": "The noise is coming from behind the east door. I lean in, pressing a palm to the doorframe, and listen intently. It sounds like whimpering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the east door", "response": "I knock gently on the east door.\n\nThere is no response.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "(myself)\nI try not to make a habit of conversing with myself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the door", "response": "Which do I mean, my bedroom door or the east door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the east door", "response": "The air is silent, now. Perhaps Marissa has also been suffering from nightmares tonight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is an open door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.\n\nIt is dark in here, but I can still make out the room around me.\n\nI feel a weird tingling in my right knuckles. I massage them gingerly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "(with my bedroom door key)\n(first closing my bedroom door)\nI lock my bedroom door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the knuckles", "response": "They're fine. Perhaps a little red, but that may just be the cold. I'm not sure what that tingling was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "(on the bed)\nI sit down on the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "The bed does look inviting. Should I sleep now?\nWearily, I repeat the motions of undressing and crawl into bed.\nMorning. I exhale slowly and run my fingertips along my arms, feeling the plasters there. Apparently, last night wasn't just a dream.\n\nRising from the bed, I stumble over to the cupboard to dress - almost tripping on the open drawer on the way. Did I forget to close it last night?\nExcuse me?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the drawer", "response": "(first getting off the bed)\nI close the drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "Feeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against my bedroom door key and the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my blouse and skirt.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look in the drawer", "response": "(first opening the drawer)\nA stack of old paintings. They can't have been touched for years - even inside the drawer, they've somehow managed to accumulate a thin layer of dust. Their subjects all seem to be women relaxing together in various settings - under parasols in a scenic park, by a fireplace in a cosy living room, lazing on a drifting canal boat.\n\nThis painting looks fresher than those beneath it. The image is disturbing. Moreso, the longer I look at it. Depicted is a woman floating naked in the ocean, red strands of seaweed unfurling in the current and... strangling her about the neck. Her dying eyes are wild, staring upwards as though pleading.\n\nA glint of wayward sunlight flashes at me from the mirror. The blanket must have fallen off sometime during the night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the blanket", "response": "I start to lift the blanket and pause, my pulse suddenly in my throat. Is that... blood?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "It's smeared with blood. I can't remember touching it last night... I'd better leave it here for now.\n\n>I don't understand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Marissa's studio. The concrete-floored room gives the impression of spaciousness simply because of how empty it is: an artist's easel sits right in the centre of the space, with an expensive-looking chair facing it. A floor-length window on the east wall adds to the discomforting sense of open space. The north wall, bare-bricked, looks strangely out of character with the painted walls of the rest of the house. The door is set into the west wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the north wall", "response": "Row after row of exposed, unpainted bricks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the easel", "response": "An old but sturdy wooden easel. There's a canvas on the easel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the canvas", "response": "Marissa is painting a landscape, apparently without visual reference. It looks near completion - a desolate cliff overlooking a misty ocean. Melancholic, but admittedly quite beautiful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "It's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is a display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible through the glass.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to another room. The entry hall is to the south.\n\nThe house is utterly still; I think Marissa must have gone out for the day. Perhaps I can take this chance to look around a little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "The kitchen has a dated feel to it; a laminate bench runs around two walls of the room, and white tiles line the wall above an aging sink and stove. An old fridge is tucked into the far corner of the room, and several potted plants decorate the bench around the spotless appliances.\n\nA calendar and old-fashioned cordless phone hang on the wall near the door leading east.\n\nA handwritten note has been placed near the middle of the bench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the note", "response": "Helena,\nI hope you slept well. Sorry we didn't get a chance to talk much last night - it's just that I'm not used to company. I'll be back this evening. Please make yourself at home.\n-M", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look in the fridge", "response": "(first opening the fridge)\nMarissa's fridge seems reasonably well-stocked; perhaps she bought some of these fresher items yesterday after receiving my call.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine calendar", "response": "It's a calendar, pinned on the wall and open to the current month. It's completely empty of appointments, but every Tuesday has been neatly highlighted in yellow. Today is Tuesday, I suddenly remember.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "Steel, and stainless indeed. Marissa certainly keeps her space clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stove", "response": "The kitchen appliances are of little interest to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at plants", "response": "The plants are pleasant enough; they bring a little life into the drab kitchen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the phone", "response": "A telephone base is attached to the wall, next to the door. A basic-looking handset sits on the cradle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dial 999", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\n(first taking the telephone handset)\n(dialing \"999\")\nI have no idea who \"999\" is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dial the pizza", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\n(dialing \"pizza\")\nI have no idea who \"pizza\" is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the mom", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\n(dialing \"mom\")\nI have no idea who \"mom\" is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dial marissa", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\n(dialing \"Marissa\")\nI have no idea who \"Marissa\" is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dial Marrisa", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\n(dialing \"Marrisa\")\nI have no idea who \"Marrisa\" is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the handset", "response": "The handset has very little functionality; it must be a relatively old model. On the LCD, there is a remarkably brief list of what appears to be contacts stored in the phone's memory:\n\n1. Estelle: 01395847839\n2. CAB: 01395137503\n3. PHC: 01395042356", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the CAB", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\n(dialing \"CAB\")\nI have no idea who \"CAB\" is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dial 2", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\nI'm fairly certain that's the number for the local Citizens Advice Bureau. I have no reason to call them myself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dial 3", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\nPHC... I've no idea who or what that might mean. At any rate, I'm not going to call them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dial 1", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\nI don't even know who \"Estelle\" is!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The kitchen has a dated feel to it; a laminate bench runs around two walls of the room, and white tiles line the wall above an aging sink and stove. An old fridge is tucked into the far corner of the room, and several potted plants decorate the bench around the spotless appliances.\n\nA calendar and old-fashioned cordless phone hang on the wall near the door leading east.\n\nA handwritten note has been placed near the middle of the bench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the fridge", "response": "I close the fridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I replace the telephone handset on the base.\n\nIt's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is a display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible through the glass.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to another room. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "The old television set is hooked up to a video recorder. A box on the floor nearby seems to be filled with several video cassettes.\n\nThe television is off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "It's a plain cardboard box. Inside, there are some films on cassette tape, as well as some homemade tapes labelled \"all the roses that were ever painted\" and \"Neverending Fantasia\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tv", "response": "I switch the television on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Fantasia in the vcr", "response": "(first taking the \"Neverending Fantasia\" tape)\nImmediately, a new image appears on the television screen.\n\n\"Neverending Fantasia\" - it looks to be a children's film about a boy who escapes an unhappy reality and ventures into a fantasy world. Even fast-forwarding through it, I can see how the tape has been damaged in sections from countless viewings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at all the the roses", "response": "It's a videocassette tape labelled \"all the roses that were ever painted\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all the the roses that were ever painted in the vcr", "response": "(first taking the \"all the roses that were ever painted\" tape)\n(first removing the \"Neverending Fantasia\" tape)\nI put the \"Neverending Fantasia\" tape back in the box.\n\nImmediately, a new image appears on the television screen.\n\nA documentary about Matisse. Skimming through it, I find myself questioning why the man is so famous; his paintings look gaudy and amateurish to me - not at all like the little I've seen of Marissa's art. The film covers some philosophising about the purity of art and the dangers of expressing \"over-excitement\" in a painting. Most interesting is the sentiment expressed towards the end, an entreaty to all artists: \"guard the original naivet?\". Fascinating - at least, as far as it concerns those with naivet? left to guard. I wonder how much Marissa takes these philosophies to heart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the armchair", "response": "I sit down on the armchair, facing the television. A cardboard box on the floor nearby appears to be providing storage for a collection of video cassettes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open cabinet", "response": "(first leaving the armchair)\nI open the cabinet.\n\nSome misshapen, unglazed red clay ornaments decorate the shelf. They're unsettling to look at.\n\nOne ornament stands out from the disturbing clay figures: an imposing porcelain queen, swathed in an elaborate blue gown, her head tilted back regally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the queen", "response": "The detail on the porcelain figure is incredible. It exudes a presence that belies its tiny stature. Quite a contrast to the ugly ornaments surrounding it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the queen", "response": "Judging by the sheer level of detail, this ornament must have cost some serious money. It might even be an antique. It certainly doesn't fit in with anything else in the room. A gift, perhaps?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first trying to open the east door)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "It's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is an open display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible inside.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to another room. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Hallway (north end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the south. In the west wall is a door leading to another room. A striking painting hangs on the north wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the painting", "response": "The painting is of a brightly coloured landscape: a silhouetted forest against a vivid sunset, stark orange casting the foreground into blues. The figure of a woman can be made out in the darkness, clinging to a tree dramatically. Her long hair covers her face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the painting", "response": "The very bottom of the painting lacks detail - it looks almost unfinished, as though the artist had finished all the important details and then abandoned the effort.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the woman", "response": "She is almost draped across the tree, her hair falling wildly across her face, rendering her without identity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(first opening the west door)\nLaundry\nI find myself in a tiny laundry; there is scarcely room to move around the sink and washing machine that occupy most of the space in here, and I'm forced to hunch inelegantly to avoid being battered by the clothes hanging from a line across the ceiling. A crumpled blouse is on the lid of the washing machine.\n\nIn the west wall is a door leading outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the blouse", "response": "(Marissa's blouse)\nA pale, long-sleeved blouse, smelling faintly of perfume. It is stained dark on one sleeve.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stain", "response": "It looks like an ink stain, perhaps an imprint from something Marissa had written on her arm. Squinting, I think I can almost make out writing. \"4, 9\"?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "It's probably an imprint from something Marissa had written on her arm. It says \"4, 9\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at clothesline", "response": "A thin plastic line is suspended across the ceiling, with an assortment of ladies' garments on hangers arranged along it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the washer", "response": "A top-loading washing machine. A blouse has been tossed onto the lid, presumably waiting to be washed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look in the washer", "response": "(first taking Marissa's blouse)\n(first opening the washing machine)\nThe washing machine is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Don blouse", "response": "(Marissa's blouse)\nIt's too small for me. Besides, it's not clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I feel cold beads of sweat forming on my neck as I consider going outside. Marissa's assurance that no-one could possibly have followed us here seems empty and foolhardy with the outside world so close. I hesitate, wrestling with my rapid breathing. It is only her back garden, I tell myself. No-one is there.\n\nNo point in dragging Marissa's blouse around. I'll leave it here.\n\n(first opening the back door)\nBack Garden\nThe back door opens westward onto a small, fairly sparse back garden. A pair of concrete steps lead down from the doorway onto a neat but plain lawn, and facing them is a chain-link fence separating Marissa's property from her neighbour's. The fence is completely covered by a thick rose vine bearing magnificent red flowers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowers", "response": "The vine is heavy with red roses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fence", "response": "A chain-link fence, weighed down by a climbing rose vine.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The back door opens westward onto a small, fairly sparse back garden. A pair of concrete steps lead down from the doorway onto a neat but plain lawn, and facing them is a chain-link fence separating Marissa's property from her neighbour's. The fence is completely covered by a thick rose vine bearing magnificent red flowers.\n\nI find my breath is coming in short gasps. Being outdoors is making me intensely nervous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rose", "response": "(the roses on the vine)\nCarefully avoiding the thorns, I gather a handful of roses from the vine.\n\nI blink and frown in the glare of the clouds, conscious that a neighbour could be watching me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell the roses", "response": "(the cluster of roses)\nThey're fresh and heady.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "There's nowhere to go in that direction. The only obvious exit is east (to the laundry).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the roses", "response": "(the cluster of roses)\nA handful of vivid red roses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I'm holding a cluster of roses.\n\nFeeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against my bedroom door key and the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my blouse and skirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The laundry is tiny; there is scarcely room to move around the sink and washing machine that occupy most of the space in here, and I'm forced to hunch inelegantly to avoid being battered by the clothes hanging from a line across the ceiling. A crumpled blouse is on the lid of the washing machine.\n\nIn the west wall is a door leading outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "Which do I mean, the back door or the laundry door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Back", "response": "I close the back door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Hallway (north end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the south. In the west wall is a door leading to the laundry. A striking painting hangs on the north wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the painting", "response": "The painting is of a brightly coloured landscape: a silhouetted forest against a vivid sunset, stark orange casting the foreground into blues. The figure of a woman can be made out in the darkness, clinging to a tree dramatically. Her long hair covers her face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the woman", "response": "She is almost draped across the tree, her hair falling wildly across her face, rendering her without identity.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look behind the painting", "response": "The forest has an enchanting illusion of depth to it, but there's only blank wall behind the painting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is a door which I can only assume leads to the master bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first trying to open the front door)\nWhat an unconscionable thought. No. I'm not safe out there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the roses", "response": "These could make a thoughtful gift. No-one has ever given me flowers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flowers in the vase", "response": "(the cluster of roses in the vase)\nThere's no room for the roses with those dead flowers in the vase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take dead", "response": "I pluck out the ruined flowers and flush them away. As I begin to tip out the murky water, a quiet clank sounds from inside the vase, and I barely catch a small yale key before it drops down the drain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flowers in vase", "response": "I fill the vase with some water, then take some time to satisfactorily arrange the roses. They improve the room considerably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowers", "response": "A handful of vivid red roses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "As I turn to leave, I catch sight of my hands. My fingertips are slightly stained, as though the red from the roses has rubbed off onto them. Impossible, surely. I turn on the tap and rinse my fingers, frowning. Reddish water swirls down the drain, stark against the white of the basin.\n\nHallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. A door in the west wall leads to the bathroom and a door in the east wall leads to Marissa's studio. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the east door with the key", "response": "Which do I mean, the yale key or my bedroom door key?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yale", "response": "That's unlocked at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is a door which I can only assume leads to the master bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bathroom is modestly sized and equipped, and as pristine as a hospital room. A white basin faces the door, a small mirrored cabinet attached to the wall above it. A toilet and shower are fixed against the north and south walls respectively. Just left of the doorway on the east wall is a small plastic table, covered in toiletries and other miscellany. A vase of red roses lends some colour to the otherwise monochromatic room.\n\nMarissa's bottle of hairdye has fallen onto the floor. Fortunately, none of the content seems to have spilled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hair dye", "response": "Frowning slightly, I place the bottle back on the plastic table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the cabinet with the yale key", "response": "I unlock the medicine cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open medicine cabinet", "response": "I open the medicine cabinet.\n\nThe interior of the cabinet is stained with age, but spotlessly clean. Inside, I can see a canister of Valium and a tube of superglue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glue", "response": "Super Glue. Bonds on contact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the glue", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the Valium", "response": "Valium? I wouldn't have expected Marissa to assent to such quackery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the Valium", "response": "Diazepam: anxiolytic, hypnotic. For treating symptoms of anxiety, agitation and insomnia. Take one tablet once a day as directed by doctor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the glue", "response": "Always useful, I suppose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter shower", "response": "I'm clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at toilet", "response": "A white toilet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "Marissa's fridge seems reasonably well-stocked; perhaps she bought some of these fresher items yesterday after receiving my call.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Water plants", "response": "They look very well tended to without my interference.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break queen", "response": "For some reason, I do feel violently inclined towards the porcelain queen. I think it's that haughty expression. I'm not going to damage Marissa's possessions, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pick up queen", "response": "I lift the queen, involuntarily reverent. She - it - is heavier than it appears, but I'm still so struck by its delicacy that I carefully place it back on its shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the chairs", "response": "The chairs are fine where they are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter chair", "response": "I sit down on the lesser-used dining chair. I feel an inexplicable discomfort, sitting here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "I stand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the dining table", "response": "On closer inspection, it looks like the table folds out to a more substantial length, but the hinges are rusted stiff from disuse.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Living Room (on the chairs)\nIt's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is an open display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible inside.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to another room. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the table", "response": "(first leaving the chairs)\nThat's not something I can stand on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelf", "response": "There are some ornaments on the shelf. They're crude and disfigured, limbs out of proportion and faces melted into disturbing expressions - screams, sighs, grimaces. They're certainly not what I would choose to display in my own living room.\n\nOdd. That porcelain queen seems to have disappeared from the cabinet. Marissa must have moved it out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "Feeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against a tube of superglue, a medicine cabinet key, my bedroom door key and the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my blouse and skirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ornaments", "response": "They're crude and disfigured, limbs out of proportion and faces melted into disturbing expressions - screams, sighs, grimaces. They're certainly not what I would choose to display in my own living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ornaments", "response": "They're relatively ugly and uninteresting. I don't care to mess with them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine windows", "response": "They let in natural light - a rare commodity in this house, it would seem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the east door", "response": "It's closed and locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the cabinet", "response": "The cabinet is dark timber with a glass panel. I can see some strange-looking ornaments lining a shelf inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search ornaments", "response": "They're relatively ugly and uninteresting. I don't care to mess with them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "There's nowhere to go in that direction. The only obvious exit is east (to the living room).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the north wall", "response": "I find myself remembering the strange numbers printed on Marissa's blouse - \"4,9\". Oh, surely not. Feeling a touch self-conscious, I count across to the fourth brick in the ninth row, and give it a gentle nudge. Sure enough, it is loose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the loose brick", "response": "I pull the brick free from the wall. Through the hole it leaves, I can see right into the adjacent room.\n\nI feel a touch dizzy. My hands are covered in mortar grit - and blood?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brick", "response": "An ordinary brown brick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Well, no point in lugging this brick around the house. Dropped.\n\nHallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. A door in the west wall leads to the bathroom and a door in the east wall leads to Marissa's studio. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bathroom is modestly sized and equipped, and as pristine as a hospital room. A white basin faces the door, a small mirrored cabinet attached to the wall above it. A toilet and shower are fixed against the north and south walls respectively. Just left of the doorway on the east wall is a small plastic table, covered in toiletries and other miscellany. A vase of red roses lends some colour to the otherwise monochromatic room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wash hands", "response": "They're clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Marissa's studio. The concrete-floored room gives the impression of spaciousness simply because of how empty it is: an artist's easel sits right in the centre of the space, with an expensive-looking chair facing it. A floor-length window on the east wall adds to the discomforting sense of open space. The north wall, bare-bricked, looks strangely out of character with the painted walls of the rest of the house. The door is set into the west wall.\n\nI can see a brick here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the hole", "response": "I lean in towards the hole, close enough that the edges of the surrounding bricks feel sharp against my brow and cheekbone, and look through to the dimly-lit master bedroom. I can't make out much detail, but there seems to be something unusual about the walls. Perhaps it's only the shadows, but I feel as though I'm being watched.\n\nI feel certain this loose brick can't have come about by chance. Marissa must have left that blouse and the co-ordinates out for me to find - maybe she wants me to keep an eye on her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the blood", "response": "A gritty mixture of mortar and blood is smeared over my hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub", "response": "What do I want to rub?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rub blood", "response": "I wipe away the muck on my hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The huge window could easily be mistaken for a door, only it doesn't seem to be openable. It looks out onto an isolated street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the street", "response": "The neighbourhood is quiet and leafy. I imagine Marissa must be the youngest inhabitant of the street by far; the houses here have an unmistakable \"retiree\" look to them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in the chair", "response": "I sit down on the studio chair. I immediately notice that it's at entirely the wrong height and angle for my body.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Studio (on the chair)\nMarissa's studio. The concrete-floored room gives the impression of spaciousness simply because of how empty it is: an artist's easel sits right in the centre of the space, with an expensive-looking chair facing it. A floor-length window on the east wall adds to the discomforting sense of open space. The north wall, bare-bricked, looks strangely out of character with the painted walls of the rest of the house. The door is set into the west wall.\n\nI can see a brick here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You adjust the chair", "response": "Marissa has obviously adjusted this chair to suit her own proportions; I have no reason to meddle with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(first leaving the chair)\nHallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. A door in the west wall leads to the bathroom and a door in the east wall leads to Marissa's studio. The living room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "There's nowhere to go in that direction. The only obvious exit is east (to hallway (south end)).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "North", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is the door to Marissa's bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, reflected in a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is an open door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.\n\nI can see a blanket here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the blinds", "response": "I open the blinds, revealing the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The window mostly looks out onto the fence between Marissa's property and her neighbour's. The fence itself is plain chain-link, but some privacy is offered by the climbing rose vine.\n\nThe sky outside is overcast and uninviting.\n\nCream-coloured venetian blinds are in their compressed position above the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the drawer", "response": "The drawer is at the base of the cupboard, with two squarish knobs protruding from it. I can see some paintings stacked up inside the open drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paintings", "response": "A stack of old paintings. They can't have been touched for years - even inside the drawer, they've somehow managed to accumulate a thin layer of dust. Their subjects all seem to be women relaxing together in various settings - under parasols in a scenic park, by a fireplace in a cosy living room, lazing on a drifting canal boat.\n\nHere is another painting that I'm certain wasn't here before. A mattress lies in the centre of a bare wooden floor, covered in a mass of bloodstained bedsheets. Nested in the middle of the sheets is the body of a woman - she is asleep, or perhaps dead. Her skin is so pale and the brushstrokes so clumsy that it is difficult to tell limb from sheet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the painting", "response": "Where are these paintings coming from? Is Marissa trying to communicate something?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the woman", "response": "(the woman in bedsheets)\nI think she is smiling. It is a disturbing image.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bedsheets", "response": "Various neutral-coloured linens - blankets, duvets, sheets, pillowcases. They all look freshly-laundered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "It's a single-sized bed, with a panelled bedhead and deep blue duvet. There is a minimal bedside table next to the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blanket", "response": "It's smeared with blood. I can't remember touching it last night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "It's completely bare. Not even a clock or a lamp to break up the surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cupboard", "response": "An oak linen cupboard, imposingly tall and square-edged. Bevelled double-doors hang above a large drawer at the base.\n\nThe double-doors hang open, revealing several shelves covered in bed linens. My overcoat is in here, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the overcoat", "response": "It might be prudent to keep my arms covered.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the overcoat", "response": "I put on the beige overcoat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "Feeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against a tube of superglue, a medicine cabinet key, my bedroom door key and the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my beige overcoat and my blouse and skirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blouse in the washer", "response": "(Marissa's blouse in the washing machine)\n(first trying to take Marissa's blouse)\nCarrying around the blanket is cumbersome enough. I'd prefer to put that down, first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blanket in the washer", "response": "(first taking Marissa's blouse)\n(first opening the washing machine)\nI heap the blanket into the machine and run it through a wash cycle, my gaze wandering idly over the room. The washing machine rumbles to a stop. I extract the blanket and hang it over the clothesline.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blouse in the washer", "response": "(Marissa's blouse in the washing machine)\nI'll let Marissa take care of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the blanket", "response": "Damp, but clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the washer", "response": "The washing machine is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hangers", "response": "The clothes are uniformly simple and practical.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "No point in dragging Marissa's blouse around. I'll leave it here.\n\nHallway (north end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the south. In the west wall is a door leading to the laundry. A striking painting hangs on the north wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is the door to Marissa's bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, reflected in a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is an open door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the perfume", "response": "(first trying to take the perfume bottle)\nI have no reason to take that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dye", "response": "It's a bottle of hair dye. Auburn #602.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the dye", "response": "That sort of vanity has never really made much sense to me. Who is it for, anyway?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the perfume", "response": "Does she just wear this around the house?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It's white plastic, with a subtle abstract pattern painted on it - that much looks home-made.\n\nNeatly arranged on the table are a bottle of hair dye, some toiletries, a perfume bottle, a packet of plasters and a vase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at pattern", "response": "It's deceptively intricate; I imagine such a pattern would have taken some hours to paint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vase", "response": "A traditional tall vase in green glazed ceramic. An attractive arrangement of red roses fills the vase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell the roses", "response": "They're fresh and heady.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "Feeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against a tube of superglue, a medicine cabinet key, my bedroom door key and the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my beige overcoat and my blouse and skirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bench", "response": "Grey marble laminate. A note is on the bench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "Helena,\nI hope you slept well. Sorry we didn't get a chance to talk much last night - it's just that I'm not used to company. I'll be back this evening. Please make yourself at home.\n-M", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "Steel, and stainless indeed. Marissa certainly keeps her space clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fridge", "response": "A tall white fridge. It seems well-maintained, but age is beginning to show: there are flecks of corrosion along the edges.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stove", "response": "The kitchen appliances are of little interest to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the phone", "response": "A telephone base is attached to the wall, next to the door. A basic-looking handset sits on the cradle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the handset", "response": "(first taking the handset)\nThe handset has very little functionality; it must be a relatively old model. On the LCD, there is a remarkably brief list of what appears to be contacts stored in the phone's memory:\n\n1. Estelle: 01395847839\n2. CAB: 01395137503\n3. PHC: 01395042356", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dial 1", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\nI don't even know who \"Estelle\" is!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the calendar", "response": "What's the significance of Tuesdays, I wonder?\n\nThe calendar seems to be hanging oddly; it isn't flat against the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look behind the calendar", "response": "I lift the calendar, and find a key hanging on the pin behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "(the mortice key)\nI remove the key from behind the calendar and pocket it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I replace the telephone handset on the base.\n\nIt's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is an open display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible inside.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to another room. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first trying to open the east door)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "Feeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against a mortice key, a tube of superglue, a medicine cabinet key, my bedroom door key and the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my beige overcoat and my blouse and skirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the east door with the mortice key", "response": "I unlock the east door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the east door)\nStudy\nThe modest study has a cold, neglected feel to it; the air is still and oppressive, the silence broken by the stern, relentless ticking of a wall clock. A flimsy desk against the far wall provides support for a primitive-looking computer. An overflowing bookcase sits against the south wall, while the door leads back west to the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The house has a faint traces of perfume everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "The ticking sets me on edge if I concentrate on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clock", "response": "It's a plain, unattractive, ticking timepiece. The hands point to 7:03.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bookcase", "response": "The bookcase is tall and expansive; despite this, it is crammed beyond its intended capacity with books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "The books mostly seem to fall into three genres: art theory, fantasy and romance. There is also a sprinkling of non-fiction books with titles like \"Training the Black Dog\" and \"The Light at the End of Depression\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at training the black Dog", "response": "There are quite a number of self help books in the bookcase. I can see terms like \"cognitive therapy\" and \"self-esteem\" repeating through several of the titles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "The white desk is of the kind designed to fold up for easier storage. An old computer is on the desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine computer", "response": "The computer is a bulky beige model - it certainly doesn't look recently-bought. The CRT monitor is currently blank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the computer", "response": "The computer hums and grumbles its way to life.\n\nA dialog box is on screen, requesting the user password for \"Marissa\". Damn.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The modest study has a cold, neglected feel to it; the air is still and oppressive, the silence broken by the stern, relentless ticking of a wall clock. A flimsy desk against the far wall provides support for a primitive-looking computer. An overflowing bookcase sits against the south wall, while the door leads back west to the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clock", "response": "It's a plain, unattractive, ticking timepiece. The hands point to 7:15.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "It's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is an open display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible inside.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to the study. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the note", "response": "I don't need to take the note with me; I can read it where it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn note", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the art theory in the books", "response": "Which do I mean, the art theory books, the romance books, the fantasy books or the self help books?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the art theory books", "response": "Art theory, history, essays and other related texts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the romance books", "response": "A few \"stock standard\" Mills & Boon, though most of the books seem to be from smaller publishers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine fantasy books", "response": "Fantasy novels about strong-willed lady knights and sorceresses. I think I can see a scrap of paper protruding from one of the books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the scrap", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scrap", "response": "It's a scrap of lined paper, probably torn from a notebook. In small, neat writing are the words \"serenity devoid\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Type serenity devoid", "response": "The password field vanishes.\n\nThe desktop is displayed. The following icons are available to click on:\n\nWord Processor", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open mail", "response": "I'm not sure what that refers to.\n[If I am trying to \"open\" something on the computer screen, I should try \"click\"-ing it instead.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You click the mail", "response": "I double-click on the \"Mail\" icon.\n\nMarissa's inbox. The following emails are available to read or reply to:\n\nPlymvale Health Centre Auto reminder: Prescription renewal Pain~M.eds 80% discounted prices\nHelena Jevne Re: Re: Hi\nClassmateReunion.com Inquiry Results\nHelena Jevne Re: Hi\nHelena Jevne Hi\nEstelle Clements Thank you\nEstelle Clements Request\n\nI can also click an \"escape\" button to return to the operating system.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the request", "response": "I am expecting some company later this week. Would you be available to come over on Wednesday in addition to your usual Tuesday?\nEstelle", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read thank you", "response": "Thank you. I appreciate it. You are always so reliable.\nEstelle", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read hi", "response": "Dear Marissa,\nIt was lovely to run into you again today. You're looking well. It is such a pleasure to speak to you again after so many years. I hope you made it home safely.\nWell wishes,\nHelena", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the inquiry results", "response": "Dear Marissa,\nIn response to your recent inquiry, this email is to inform you that your search for \"Helena Jevne\" returned 0 results.\nThanks for using ClassmateReunion.com!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the prescription renewal", "response": "This is an automated message to remind you to renew your prescription for Valium. We look forward to seeing you at Plymvale Health Centre soon. Please do not reply to this email.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Escape", "response": "[Try \"click escape\" or \"click esc\"]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You click the escape", "response": "I return to the operating system.\n\nThe desktop is displayed. The following icons are available to click on:\n\nWord Processor", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You click the browser", "response": "I double-click on the \"Browser\" icon.\n\nThe browser is open. The following icons are available to click on:\n\n\n\nI can also click an \"escape\" button to return to the operating system.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You click the history", "response": "Empty! Either she doesn't actually use this computer, or she goes to the bother of clearing her history. How paranoid.\n\nThe browser is open. The following icons are available to click on:\n\n\n\nI can also click an \"escape\" button to return to the operating system.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You click the favourites", "response": "Marissa has very few favourites saved: there are a couple of art blogs, an online bookstore, and one of those \"classmate finder\" websites.\n\nThe browser is open. The following icons are available to click on:\n\n\n\nI can also click an \"escape\" button to return to the operating system.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Click bookstore", "response": "I could while away many hours browsing through all this, but then Marissa would likely come home and find me in here. Besides, I'm sure I can manage to occupy myself with other things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You click the Word Processor", "response": "I double-click on the \"Word Processor\" icon and glance briefly over the program. Marissa has only one recently-opened document: a Tax Invoice template for \"M. Ridley Cleaning\". Her business, I assume. Interesting. I give the file a cursory glance, then close the word processor.\n\nThe desktop is displayed. The following icons are available to click on:\n\nWord Processor", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clock", "response": "It's a plain, unattractive, ticking timepiece. The hands point to 3:16.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clock", "response": "It's a plain, unattractive, ticking timepiece. The hands point to 3:17.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "It's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is an open display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible inside.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to the study. The entry hall is to the south.\n\nI can hear a phone ringing from somewhere to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The kitchen has a dated feel to it; a laminate bench runs around two walls of the room, and white tiles line the wall above an aging sink and stove. An old fridge is tucked into the far corner of the room, and several potted plants decorate the bench around the spotless appliances.\n\nA calendar and old-fashioned cordless phone hang on the wall near the door leading east.\n\nA handwritten note has been placed near the middle of the bench.\n\nThe phone rings out just as I step into the room. It echoes eerily in my head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dial 1", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\n(first taking the telephone handset)\nCurious, I dial \"Estelle\". The phone rings once. Twice. Six times, then a female voice - no, a recording of one - answers in stiff Oxford English: \"Hello, you've reached Estelle. I am unable to receive your call at this time, so please leave a message after the tone and I will get back to you as soon as possible.\" I hang up before the tone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "(examining the handset)\nThe handset has very little functionality; it must be a relatively old model. On the LCD, there is a remarkably brief list of what appears to be contacts stored in the phone's memory:\n\n1. Estelle: 01395847839\n2. CAB: 01395137503\n3. PHC: 01395042356", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dial 1", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\nCurious, I dial \"Estelle\". The phone rings once. Twice. Six times, then a female voice - no, a recording of one - answers in stiff Oxford English: \"Hello, you've reached Estelle. I am unable to receive your call at this time, so please leave a message after the tone and I will get back to you as soon as possible.\" I hang up before the tone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\nI don't really have cause to call her again. Besides, that stiff voice sends a chill up my spine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about Estelle", "response": "Her name alone nauseates me. I am certain there is something dangerous about that woman.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dial 3", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\nPHC... Plymvale Health Centre? I don't need to call them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I replace the telephone handset on the base.\n\nI flinch, startled, as I step into the living room: an elaborately-dressed woman is sitting at Marissa's dining table, bold as day. She looks to be in her late fifties and glares at me from beneath a permanently-wrinkled brow.\n\n[1] \"Who are you?\"\n[2] \"What are you doing here?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "The woman meets my eyes with a steely gaze. \"Surely, you've already read enough of my correspondence with Marissa to know.\" My vision wobbles threateningly, but I square my shoulders and glare back at her.\n\n[1] \"What are you doing here?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "She smirks. \"Marissa wishes it. Can you honestly say the same for yourself?\" I can begin to feel rage quietly building up beneath my ribcage.\n\n[1] \"I think you should leave, now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"You utter imbecile. Can't you even recognise yourself in the mirror?\"\n\n[1] \"Mirror? What would you know about that?\"\n[2] \"Of course I can, you vile woman!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the woman", "response": "An older woman with an air of wealth and haughtiness. She wears a strikingly elaborate blue gown, and a tiara is nestled in her silver perm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at gown", "response": "What an excessive garment! It looks oddly familiar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tiara", "response": "It seems a strange accessory for a grown woman. What might it represent to her?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the queen", "response": "(the strange woman)\nAn older woman with an air of wealth and haughtiness. She wears a strikingly elaborate blue gown, and a tiara is nestled in her silver perm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I was watching from behind the glass - as, obviously, were you.\"\n\nI gasp, tiny fibres from the carpet floating into my mouth; somehow I am lying cheek-down on the floor. The woman is gone. Presumably, the old bitch struck me prone.\n\nI raise myself to my feet, feeling angry for the intrusion. Who exactly is this woman that Marissa is dealing with?\n\nI hear the front door open and look over to see Marissa entering the room. She greets me with a shy smile and places her handbag down on the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the queen", "response": "I'm admittedly relieved the porcelain figure is gone. Somehow, that little queen made me more uncomfortable than the ugly clay ornaments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Marissa", "response": "Marissa turns her eyes upon me, questioning.\n\n[1] \"You're home. How has your day been?\"\n[2] \"Marissa. Where have you been all day?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "She seems confronted, her head lowering. \"Just at work. There's a lady I help... it's housekeeping. Nothing glamourous. How was your day?\"\n\n[1] \"I've just... looked around your house a little.\"\n[2] \"Fine. Why do you ask?\"\n[3] \"I've had a pleasant stay. Thanks for all your kindness.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "I feel a twinge of something unpleasant in my chest. Treacherously, my lip twitches. Marissa's eyes, wide and unsettlingly clear, flick down to my mouth, then meet my eyes seriously. That vague look enters her expression again.\n\n\"Of course.\" She closes her eyes for a moment before staring at me seriously. \"Helena... I'm sure you'd do no harm here.\" She almost reaches for my arm, then seems to think better of it. The silence swells.\n\n[1] \"I'll let you get on with your business.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Marissa clears her throat. \"I'm going to take a shower. I'll be out soon. Please don't mind me.\" She walks off down the hallway and I am again left alone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the handbag", "response": "A soft fabric handbag with a shoulder strap. I can see something inside it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in handbag", "response": "The contents of the handbag are neat and few. A purse, a keyring and a piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the keyring and the paper", "response": "No... as a guest, I think I need to be more mindful than that. One action at a time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the keyring", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the paper", "response": "(the piece of paper)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine keyring", "response": "A metal keyring, with an intricately plaited decoration of thread and beads trailing from it. On the ring are a well-used mortice key and a gold mortice key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paper", "response": "(the piece of paper)\nIt's a little memo, written in a stern hand. \"Marissa. Kindly make the arrangements today as discussed. The white roses are appreciated. Everything else you'll need is in my room. Estelle.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Hallway (south end)\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north. A door in the west wall leads to the bathroom and a door in the east wall leads to Marissa's studio. The living room is to the south.\n\nI can hear the shower running.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is the door to Marissa's bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the east door witthe well-used mortice key", "response": "I unlock Marissa's bedroom door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(first opening Marissa's bedroom door)\nMarissa's Bedroom\nMarissa's bedroom is initially confusing to the eye; the walls are almost entirely covered in an eccentric display of unframed paintings and tiny mirrors in mismatched frames. Lace curtains drape over a window in the north wall, letting dappled light filter onto a white-framed bed. In the dimly-lit south side of the room is a bedside table, covered in a pale floral cloth and a reading lamp. A white wardrobe, far less intimidating than the one in the spare room, is here too. The door is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paintings", "response": "The paintings are nearly all landscapes, with any human figures silhouetted or obscured by scenery. Every painting seems almost to glitter with creativity, and yet there is a sense of longing to all of them - each waterfall is not dramatically foregrounded, but lingers, hazy, behind a layer of mist; each sky seems to stretch endlessly, not quite delivering on the promise of a horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wardrobe", "response": "A tall white wardrobe for clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wardrobe", "response": "I open the white wardrobe, revealing some clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clothes", "response": "Marissa's clothes - mostly simple garments, with a few lacy affairs tossed in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine mirrors", "response": "There are dark eyes everywhere, blinking at me from every wall. The mirrors are framed in a whimsical assortment of frames, ranging from dark wrought iron, to embossed silver, to raw timber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the curtains", "response": "The window looks out to the north. The neighbourhood looks lifeless beneath the grey sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "A little round table with a floral cloth draped over it. A drawer, its face rounded with the curve of the table, faces towards the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Around me, all over the walls, blonde women lunge forward in reflective fragments. Dizzy, I focus on the drawer. There is a small diary inside, its cover hand painted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine diary", "response": "The cover is a painting of a girl, her head rested on her folded arms, melancholy blue eyes staring out beyond the image.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open diary", "response": "It is important that I know as much as possible about Marissa's situation in order to help her. Later, I am sure she will understand to thank me for my concern. I remove the diary from the drawer and spread it open on the bed.\n\nThere are several pages filled with text. I read the first entry.\n\n\"Life outside the studio window blurs on without me. Sometimes, when the loneliness is at its strongest, I move my easel close to the door and hide behind it, watching the neighbourhood's movements. There is a little old lady across the road who I often see struggling to carry her groceries inside from the bus. No-one is ever there to help her. I wonder what her name is, why she is alone.\"\nExcuse me?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read diary", "response": "I continue reading.\n\n\"I'm trying to keep to my schedule. Cleaning, always cleaning. Nothing is ever clean enough. Nothing is ever essential enough. I look away from my canvas and everything seems without essence and covered in dirt.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"Estelle is the kindest employer I could ever hope for. Today she told me a little more about her work at the opera theatre. I listened, spell-bound as a child. I think she knows I have no anecdotes of my own to contribute, so she just talks and smiles kindly. I guess what she is is a friend, though I retreat from the word with uncertainty.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "\"I am sure the sunrise is influencing my palette - dear Matisse would not approve! - but oh, the studio is spectacular in the dawn light. I paint all night until I am too exhausted to think, and then I sleep and sleep and sometimes I can't get out of bed. The itch of tears is fresh in my eyes when I wake because I dream of such pretty things and then I wake, and I stare at my blank ceiling, blankness reflected in such blank eyes.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "\"Oh Nan, how is it that I live like this? I dreamt of you and I hope I keep your house well enough for you because I do still miss you, every day. I hope you are in peace.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"Coming back from Estelle's today, I ran into Helena Jevne. She is still as strikingly beautiful as she was back in school. And goodness, so tall. Nervous as I was, I could not escape from our conversation for over two hours... but in retrospect, I am glad. She seems such a strong-minded, sensible person. Better-adjusted than me, most likely. She has brought me back from this slumber of blankness, I think. I dare to hope that maybe I will see her again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"Alone. It bites at me over and over and over and I have forgotten my schedule, but it seems so meaningless so meaningless so\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"I almost can't look at my paintings after they are painted. The loss of that moment of creation is painful. I dreamt of so many things, once. Now I hold onto a series of singular dreams, fluttering against my palms as I grasp them, almost too afraid to breathe for fear of crushing their delicacy, and I paint them with a mechanical concentration. And can't look back. I am beginning on the cliffside I saw in my dream. I hope it will be enough for now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "\"Emails. So nerve-wracking. Of course I am intimidated by her; her wisdom and her worldliness must see right through my meek existence. 'Purity' is what I value, I tell myself. In the face of another human being, though, my convictions waver... and even if I weren't so shy, I don't know if I could let a person into my life. Especially... well, oh. I don't know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "This page is smeared with dark stains, rendering most of it illegible. \"... phone call in the night ... ecked and the key wasn't there ... rror had been smashed in viole ...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "The dark stains continue on this page, and the following. \"... been here for over a week now ... re white roses from the garden, stained with hairdye! She must have tak ... aints, everywhere! ... drawer, found the most terrible thing but didn't dare ...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "I flip through the pages, reading the few fragments I can, all written in a hand seemingly overcome by distress. \"... ntire mirror covered in plasters! and I ... heart-stopping crashes and then a thud on my door ... ound the mark of a fist! What does sh ... scraping at the brickwork ... a knife, no less! and bloo ...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "The rest of the pages are blank.\n\nFrom somewhere to the west, I can hear Marissa calling for me. My clammy palms betray an inexplicable apprehension.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "Feeling in my skirt pockets, my fingers brush against Estelle's memo, a keyring, a scrap of paper, a study door key, a medicine cabinet key, my bedroom door key and the cold, unnerving steel of a kitchen knife. I'm wearing my beige overcoat and my blouse and skirt.\n\nI thought there was something else I was carrying before... well, perhaps not.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Marissa's bedroom is initially confusing to the eye; the walls are almost entirely covered in an eccentric display of unframed paintings and tiny mirrors in mismatched frames. Lace curtains drape over a window in the north wall, letting dappled light filter onto a white-framed bed. In the dimly-lit south side of the room is a bedside table, covered in a pale floral cloth and a reading lamp. A white wardrobe, far less intimidating than the one in the spare room, is here too. The door is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I quickly return the diary.\n\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is the door to Marissa's bedroom.\n\nMarissa runs past in a tearful blur, almost crashing into me as she dashes into the bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Marissa's bedroom is initially confusing to the eye; the walls are almost entirely covered in an eccentric display of unframed paintings and tiny mirrors in mismatched frames. Lace curtains drape over a window in the north wall, letting dappled light filter onto a white-framed bed. In the dimly-lit south side of the room is a bedside table, covered in a pale floral cloth and a reading lamp. A white wardrobe, far less intimidating than the one in the spare room, is here too. The door is to the west.\n\nMarissa is here. Her small frame heaves with silent sobbing, her eyes unfocused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "\"Never mind,\" I mutter. Marissa's eyes glaze over for a moment, and then - as though I had never disturbed her - she resumes her crying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Feeling particularly cautious, I lock the door behind me. There could be all manner of danger in this house, and I feel obliged to keep Marissa safe.\n\nThe carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is the door to Marissa's bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "The interior of the cabinet is stained with age, but spotlessly clean. Inside, I can see a canister of Valium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Valium", "response": "Diazepam: anxiolytic, hypnotic. For treating symptoms of anxiety, agitation and insomnia. Take one tablet once a day as directed by doctor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the vase", "response": "In the vase is a cluster of roses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the hole", "response": "I lean in towards the hole and look through to the dimly-lit master bedroom. I can see the shadowy figure of Marissa hunched into herself on the bed, oddly silhouetted by the window behind her. Her face is flecked with reflected light from the mirrors on the bedroom walls, highlighting the tears on her cheeks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The huge window could easily be mistaken for a door, only it doesn't seem to be openable. It looks out onto an isolated street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "It's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with a handbag placed on top and two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is an open display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible inside.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to the study. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ornaments", "response": "They're crude and disfigured, limbs out of proportion and faces melted into disturbing expressions - screams, sighs, grimaces. They're certainly not what I would choose to display in my own living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The kitchen has a dated feel to it; a laminate bench runs around two walls of the room, and white tiles line the wall above an aging sink and stove. An old fridge is tucked into the far corner of the room, and several potted plants decorate the bench around the spotless appliances.\n\nA calendar and old-fashioned cordless phone hang on the wall near the door leading east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "There's nowhere to go in that direction. The only obvious exit is east (to the living room).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dial 1", "response": "(on the telephone handset)\n(first taking the telephone handset)\nI don't really have cause to call her again. Besides, that stiff voice sends a chill up my spine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I replace the telephone handset on the base.\n\nIt's a beige little living room; the offering of pale light filtering from the entry hall to the south somehow doesn't help to shake the sleepy, lifeless feeling here. An undersized dining table forms the centrepiece of the room, with a handbag placed on top and two chairs pushed beneath it. Wedged into the northwest corner of the room is a television, an old-fashioned armchair tucked up next to it. Against the north wall to the east is an open display cabinet with a single shelf of ornaments visible inside.\n\nA door to the north leads to the hallway, a door in the west wall leads to the kitchen and a door in the east wall leads to the study. The entry hall is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the paintings", "response": "A stack of old paintings. They can't have been touched for years - even inside the drawer, they've somehow managed to accumulate a thin layer of dust. Their subjects all seem to be women relaxing together in various settings - under parasols in a scenic park, by a fireplace in a cosy living room, lazing on a drifting canal boat.\n\nAnother new painting. This one is so messy it's difficult to be certain of the details, but it looks to be a figure of a blonde giantess attacking a human female with a knife. The giantess figure is apparently translucent: within her, another female is visible, her mouth frozen in a scream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the duvet", "response": "Which do I mean, the blankets or the duvet?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blue", "response": "Dark blue. It looks warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about yourself", "response": "Why should I be afraid of whatever is inside me? I have every right to companionship. I am the only one who could possibly appreciate someone like Marissa. She needs me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "I find myself unable to focus on the mirror. My vision fills with black when I try to look at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine vine", "response": "From here, it appears that the rose vine has laid claim to the entire fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blinds", "response": "Plastic venetian blinds. Cream-coloured.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, reflected in a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is an open door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examinthe double-doors", "response": "They're bevelled and panelled, and stained dark like the rest of the cupboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelves", "response": "Several shelves supporting a variety of bed linens. There'd be room for my clothes in here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "About what, specifically?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the painting", "response": "I can't begin to imagine what this is supposed to mean! Is this some obscure message from Marissa?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the bed", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake", "response": "As far as I'm aware, I'm awake.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, reflected in a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is an open door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The window mostly looks out onto the fence between Marissa's property and her neighbour's. The fence itself is plain chain-link, but some privacy is offered by the climbing rose vine.\n\nThe sky outside is overcast and uninviting.\n\nCream-coloured venetian blinds are in their compressed position above the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search window", "response": "(on the bed)\nI sit down on the bed.\n\n>(first getting off the bed)\nFrom here, it appears that the rose vine has laid claim to the entire fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blue", "response": "Soft.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Helena's Bedroom (on the bed)\nThis is my room, at least for now. It is remarkably clean, the walls a warm off-white. The bed rests against the west wall, reflected in a portrait-sized mirror facing the foot of the bed. Right of the mirror, in the east wall, is an open door, and right of that is an imposing oak cupboard. A window in the north wall overlooks the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "It's completely bare. Not even a clock or a lamp to break up the surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean table", "response": "(first getting off the bed)\nThat would be pointless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search table", "response": "Although the table is bare, I think I can see some scratches in the wood: on the north edge, there are 3 notches, on the east edge, there are 4 notches and on the south edge, there is 1 notch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the scratches", "response": "(the bedside table)\nIt's completely bare. Not even a clock or a lamp to break up the surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn table", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gold key", "response": "It's a mortice key, most likely fitting a door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the keyring", "response": "A metal keyring, with an intricately plaited decoration of thread and beads trailing from it. On the ring are Marissa's bedroom door key and a gold mortice key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The carpeted hallway extends away to the north and south. In the west wall is a door leading to the guest bedroom, and in the east wall is the door to Marissa's bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "(first trying to open the front door)\nThis is hardly the time to abandon Marissa!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the front door", "response": "(with the gold mortice key)\nI ensure the front door is securely locked. For Marissa's own protection.\n\nI lock the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first unlocking Marissa's bedroom door with Marissa's bedroom door key, then opening Marissa's bedroom door)\nMarissa's Bedroom\nMarissa's bedroom is initially confusing to the eye; the walls are almost entirely covered in an eccentric display of unframed paintings and tiny mirrors in mismatched frames. Lace curtains drape over a window in the north wall, letting dappled light filter onto a white-framed bed. In the dimly-lit south side of the room is a bedside table, covered in a pale floral cloth and a reading lamp. A white wardrobe, far less intimidating than the one in the spare room, is here too. The door is to the west.\n\nMarissa is here. She weeps steadily into one hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Marissa", "response": "She glances up from crying and meets my eyes for the briefest of moments, her gaze watery and fearful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Marissa looks at me with teary eyes, a startling red ringing the grey irises. I hesitate, sensing the likely gravity of this conversation. Should I talk to her now?\n[1] \"Why are you crying?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Marissa swallows and just stares.\n\n[1] \"Is someone trying to hurt you? I might know who.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "She looks disbelieving and glances around the room, as though looking for an exit.\n\nI follow her gaze across the dozens of tiny mirrors on the walls. In each one, I see a different angle of the face of the woman I killed. My pocket feels suddenly heavy and I slip my hand in there, sweatily clutching the handle of my knife.\n\n[1] \"It's that woman, isn't it? The one you work for. Marissa, you deserve so much more. She came here today, you know. Just walked straight in the front door. I won't let her hurt you.\"\n[2] \"I won't hurt you, Marissa.\"\n[3] \"I know what it's like to be alone.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Marissa's words come out almost in a whisper, but they strike me as painfully as an open palm. \"What are you doing, Helena? What do you want from me?\"\n\nMy consternation must show in my features. Marissa, apparently emboldened, says, \"I think... W-what I think is that you've been trying to trap me here. In my own house.\" She takes a deep breath. \"B-but I don't think you're capable of really hurting anyone other than yourself.\" She is visibly shaking. I might be, too.\n\n\"Helena?\"\n\nI pluck listlessly at the bandages on my arm. Damnably, I don't think she is wrong. She stares at me and I understand - completely, at last - that this has to end here.\n\nI try to speak but my tongue seems to have closed off my throat.\nI glance back at her one last time - that perfectly preserved girl - and start walking down the hallway. My eyes fall on the fist-shaped dent where I \"knocked\" on her bedroom door my second night here, the bathroom mirror, completely obscured by adhesive bandages, the once-white roses turned ruddy as they drink their vase of hair dye. I pass through the living room and glance briefly at the porcelain ornament smashed into pieces on the floor.\n\nYes, everything she said about me was true.\n\nI open the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You repeat", "response": "The available options are:\n\n[1] \"It's that woman, isn't it? The one you work for. Marissa, you deserve so much more. She came here today, you know. Just walked straight in the front door. I won't let her hurt you.\"\n[2] \"I won't hurt you, Marissa.\"\n[3] \"I know what it's like to be alone.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "We look at each other quietly. Marissa's face is soft and open. 'Impressionable' seems the fitting word, as though I could mould her features with a gesture. The edge of a sunset filters in across the bed, softly meshed with the shadow of the lace curtain.\n\n\"I saw what you've written about me,\" I eventually confess. She looks afraid, lowering her eyelashes. \"Sometimes,\" I explain, \"fear can distort your perception of events. You needn't be afraid, though. Anything I have done is only to protect you. I'm here, now. You don't have to be alone anymore.\" She lifts her eyes to meet mine and slowly takes a breath, about to say something - but seems to choke on her words.\n\nI lean forward and embrace her gently. Her little frame, at first so tense, eventually softens in my arms. \"What I dream of,\" she murmurs, \"is a life of balance, of purity and serenity, devoid of trouble or depression.\" It sounds like a quote, but the sentiment is clear to me. I smile into her hair, holding her closer. She slumps into me, quiet and submissive.\nWith me, she will be safe. And I know she will not stray from me again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill Marissa", "response": "I shiver. No.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the keyring to Marissa", "response": "I think I'll keep that to myself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Marissa looks at me with teary eyes, a startling red ringing the grey irises. I hesitate, sensing the likely gravity of this conversation. Should I talk to her now?\n[1] \"Why are you crying?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Marissa swallows and just stares.\n\n[1] \"Is someone trying to hurt you? I might know who.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "She looks disbelieving and glances around the room, as though looking for an exit.\n\nI follow her gaze across the dozens of tiny mirrors on the walls. In each one, I see a different angle of the face of the woman I killed. My pocket feels suddenly heavy and I slip my hand in there, sweatily clutching the handle of my knife.\n\n[1] \"It's that woman, isn't it? The one you work for. Marissa, you deserve so much more. She came here today, you know. Just walked straight in the front door. I won't let her hurt you.\"\n[2] \"I won't hurt you, Marissa.\"\n[3] \"I know what it's like to be alone.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "She shifts away from me a little, sliding across the duvet, and I feel a pang of irritation.\n\n\"I know there's something going on, Marissa. Please don't try to deceive me. Your tears are evidence enough.\" I brush her cheekbone gently with my thumb. She blinks and flinches. My right hand, still in my pocket, twitches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the space", "response": "I hesitate, moistening my lips. \"I'm sure you're being exploited. You...\" She isn't looking at me. I catch her by the chin and force her eyes to meet mine. \"You make yourself an easy target, all alone here.\" I continue. Her breathing is lightly audible. It rings in my ears like the ocean. \"I don't think you understand what people are like. They can't possibly understand how to appreciate you.\"\n\n\"What are you talking about.\" Her words fall flat; more of a statement than a question. It is obvious she knows exactly what I am talking about; the girl is addled by years of solitude. \"But I am here to end that! Don't you see?\" I smile, my heart almost leaping out my throat. She just stares.\n\nI lean forward to smooth out the tear-clumped tangles in her hair. Frustratingly, she edges back further. \"There was a girl before, you know,\" I explain, \"But she and I used to argue now and then.\"\n\n\"Was there?\" she asks. She is almost flat on the bed, now. I think I am leaning a little too heavily on her abdomen, but I feel I shouldn't draw away just yet. Her body is so warm against my hand. And there, she is crying again. Her eyes are wide. She looks shocked, but that will pass. \"Just hush,\" I say, stroking her hair. \"Hush.\" Her crying soon fades to silence.\nI curl up close to her, burying my face in her still-warm neck. I lie with her, long after it goes cold.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Horror", "Humor" ]

[ "cover art", "Ectocomp 2012", "female protagonist", "graphics", "horror", "humor", "I7 source available", "music", "NightFloyd transcript", "parser", "treasure hunt" ]

[ 0, 8, 4, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Each year on Samhain night, Ghosterington Manor, the lair of legendary (and dead) bad poet, futurist and occultist Vigilance Ghosterington, materialises atop the same lonely cliff. It stays there for three hours, tempting adventurers to brave its dangers before disappearing at midnight for another year. It is said that Ghosterington's last four poems - the worst he ever wrote, now worth millions of dollars - are still inside the manor. But nobody has lived to bring them out.\n\nThis year is your year, for you are the famous adventurer and treasure finder Jubilee Grief, and you're determined to survive the dangers of Ghosterington Manor, find the poems, sell them and retire as a (more) famous millionaire.\n. . .\n\nA screaming wind lashes the cliff face as you ascend it with your anti-spelunking equipment. Suddenly a higher pitched squeaking pierces through to your ears. After your recent trip to the Amazon you'd know that sound anywhere: Killer vampire bats!\n\nWithout hesitation you whip out your six shooter and kick away from the cliff face, scanning for potential attackers. Three rapidly approaching dark shapes swing into view and you open fire - BLAOW BLAOW BLAOW!\n\nThe three clipped bats flap and flail as they tumble to their deaths hundreds of feet below. You use your climbing pack to brace yourself as you swing back into the cliff, but the violent collision tears open a side pocket and your box of ammunition tumbles into space. Drat! Now you've only got the three bullets in your gun left to use in the house. Better make them count.\n(* The title image would appear here if you were playing this game in an interpreter with graphics support.)\n\n(* You would be hearing the theme music now if you were playing this game in an interpreter with sound support.)\n\nWindswept and thoroughly bedraggled, you finally manage to haul yourself over the top of the cliff. Untangling yourself from your climbing pack, you contemplate that which stands before you. Ghosterington Manor is huge, black, wooden and windowless. Its famously inviting front door stands to your north. The cliff plummets away from you in all other directions, making you dizzy.\n\n(WHEN YOU'RE READY TO LEAVE THE MANOR, COME BACK HERE TO THE CLIFFTOP.)\n\nYou can see your climbing pack here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Your hair's tied back in a tight ponytail and you're wearing your flexible black climbing and spying catsuit. Your minimal look has become all the rage with female adventurers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pack", "response": "The pack is a big pile of ropes and pulleys you used to get up here. You'll leave it here by the cliff until it's time to leave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na black catsuit (being worn)\na six shooter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shooter", "response": "This trusty weapon has extricated you from more sticky situations than you can recall. It's loaded with three bullets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the catsuit", "response": "It makes you totally inconspicuous or attractive as the situation calls for. Amazing!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the catsuit", "response": "Messing with your catsuit could get you killed!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na xyzzy (being worn)\na xyzzy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at xyzzy", "response": "You feel confused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Each year on Samhain night, Ghosterington Manor, the lair of legendary (and dead) bad poet, futurist and occultist Vigilance Ghosterington, materialises atop the same lonely cliff. It stays there for three hours, tempting adventurers to brave its dangers before disappearing at midnight for another year. It is said that Ghosterington's last four poems - the worst he ever wrote, now worth millions of dollars - are still inside the manor. But nobody has lived to bring them out.\n\nThis year is your year, for you are the famous adventurer and treasure finder Jubilee Grief, and you're determined to survive the dangers of Ghosterington Manor, find the poems, sell them and retire as a (more) famous millionaire.\n. . .\n\nA screaming wind lashes the cliff face as you ascend it with your anti-spelunking equipment. Suddenly a higher pitched squeaking pierces through to your ears. After your recent trip to the Amazon you'd know that sound anywhere: Killer vampire bats!\n\nWithout hesitation you whip out your six shooter and kick away from the cliff face, scanning for potential attackers. Three rapidly approaching dark shapes swing into view and you open fire - BLAOW BLAOW BLAOW!\n\nThe three clipped bats flap and flail as they tumble to their deaths hundreds of feet below. You use your climbing pack to brace yourself as you swing back into the cliff, but the violent collision tears open a side pocket and your box of ammunition tumbles into space. Drat! Now you've only got the three bullets in your gun left to use in the house. Better make them count.\n(* The title image would appear here if you were playing this game in an interpreter with graphics support.)\n\n(* You would be hearing the theme music now if you were playing this game in an interpreter with sound support.)\n\nWindswept and thoroughly bedraggled, you finally manage to haul yourself over the top of the cliff. Untangling yourself from your climbing pack, you contemplate that which stands before you. Ghosterington Manor is huge, black, wooden and windowless. Its famously inviting front door stands to your north. The cliff plummets away from you in all other directions, making you dizzy.\n\n(WHEN YOU'RE READY TO LEAVE THE MANOR, COME BACK HERE TO THE CLIFFTOP.)\n\nYou can see your climbing pack here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You're in the vestibule of Ghosterington Manor, a well appointed hall of black marble. Doorways lead west and north, and you can leave the manor to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in a creaky, high-ceilinged hall of blackest wood. There are rooms west and east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're in the fabled Contrition Corner, where Vigilance Ghosterington was said to have flagellated himself after writing each of his awful poems. The stories must have been true because the walls really are red with his blood! Doorways leave this creepy room to the north and east.\n\nOn the west wall is a painting of Vigilance Ghosterington himself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the painting", "response": "Ghosterington's generally weak and tardy face, pale beneath his widow's peak, is compensated for by a rather cruel but good looking mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mouth", "response": "As you step closer to examine the mouth, a tiny voice from behind the painting whispers:\n\n\"Brown cow's what I used to use\nI need another living muse\ntell me now what should it be\nas well you might, ho ho, hee hee!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Coffee", "response": "The voice whispers:\n\n\"Your answer, poorly,\nmakes me sorely.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blood", "response": "The walls are dark with the ancient dried out blood of a self-hating bad poet. It's sad. Sad and gross.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move painting", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.\n\nA white statue materialises in the room. Perspiration immediately breaks out on your forehead. You instinctively realise that this is the thing called Terror Statue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Statue", "response": "A tall white marble statue of a robed man. You want to lift your eyes to his face but you're too afraid to look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Punch statue", "response": "Your fear prevents you from approaching Terror Statue. The only way to attack him is by shooting at him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot statue", "response": "The statue vanishes in the blink of an eye just before your bullet would have hit it.\n\nYou've got two more bullets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The western way continues in all directions - except west.\n\nAn armoudillo shell lies discarded on the floor here.\n\nYou hear an alarming grinding and ticking sound as a silvery figure plods into the room. It's a clockwork girl. Her bloody metal face is stretched into a permanently agonised grimace. She's wielding an axe and looking at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shell", "response": "You can tell at a glance that it's unwieldy and would reduce your ability to adventure. It might be worth examining more closely, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine girl", "response": "She's hideous, built out of metal and chunks of female flesh and tied together with veins and gristle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shell", "response": "Emitting an angry buzzing sound, the clockwork girl spins towards you and deftly removes your head with her axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is a plush room brightly lit by panels far above you in the walls and with a lush rug underfoot. Exits go south and east.\n\nA writing desk is here. This must be where Ghosterington birthed his dread works.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room. The rug muffles her footsteps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "There's a big, dusty bed here. You wonder if Ghosterington ever really slept in this manor. The place has shown no signs of being anything than unliveable. Exits go west, south and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is a room made of solid, shining gold. Exits lead in all directions.\n\nYou hear a click from the floor as you enter the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The eastern way continues in all directions - except east.\n\nA long dead plant sits in a pot here, black and thoroughly dry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the plant", "response": "You can tell at a glance that it's unwieldy and would reduce your ability to adventure. It might be worth examining more closely, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plant", "response": "One of the papery leaves is in fact not a leaf but a piece of paper. You take it.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This room is upholstered in pink velvet. The nauseating colour and texture makes you shudder. Exits lead west and south.\n\nThere's a small vanity here.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\npaper A\na black catsuit (being worn)\na six shooter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine paper a.", "response": "There's one word on it: elephant.\n\nTerror Statue materialises in the room and your heart skips a beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is a room made of solid, shining gold. Exits lead in all directions.\n\nYou hear two clicks from the floor as you enter the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The western way continues in all directions - except west.\n\nAn armoudillo shell lies discarded on the floor here.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shell", "response": "Emitting an angry buzzing sound, the clockwork girl spins towards you and deftly removes your head with her axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is a room made of solid, shining gold. Exits lead in all directions.\n\nYou hear three clicks from the floor as you enter the room.\n\nIn an instant, the golden ceiling descends to the floor, crushing you flat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gun", "response": "This trusty weapon has extricated you from more sticky situations than you can recall. You've got two more bullets.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The western way continues in all directions - except west.\n\nThe clockwork girl is ticking away here and brandishing her axe.\n\nAn armoudillo shell lies discarded on the floor here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the axe", "response": "You try to snatch the axe from the clockwork girl's hands but it doesn't budge. She takes a retaliatory swipe at you. You realise that your head is now rolling across the floor as a result.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is a plush room brightly lit by panels far above you in the walls and with a lush rug underfoot. Exits go south and east.\n\nA writing desk is here. This must be where Ghosterington birthed his dread works.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room. The rug muffles her footsteps.\n\nTerror Statue materialises in the room and your heart skips a beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rug", "response": "The rug looks a bit loose. The clockwork girl is standing on it, watching you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the rug", "response": "You yank the rug and the clockwork girl topples over. She thrashes about madly, whirring and clicking like an overturned beetle, but she's not flexible enough to get back on her feet.\n\nA cold wall of pure fear is radiating from the statue. Your limbs tremble, your blood runs icy, then every part of you just stops at once.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot statue", "response": "The statue vanishes in the blink of an eye just before your bullet would have hit it.\n\nYou've got one shot left.\n\nEmitting an angry buzzing sound, the clockwork girl spins towards you and deftly removes your head with her axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is a plush room brightly lit by panels far above you in the walls and with a lush rug underfoot. Exits go south and east.\n\nTerror Statue is here.\n\nA writing desk is here. This must be where Ghosterington birthed his dread works.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room. The rug muffles her footsteps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "There's a big, dusty bed here. You wonder if Ghosterington ever really slept in this manor. The place has shown no signs of being anything than unliveable. Exits go west, south and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This room is upholstered in pink velvet. The nauseating colour and texture makes you shudder. Exits lead west and south.\n\nThere's a small vanity here.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The eastern way continues in all directions - except east.\n\nA long dead plant sits in a pot here, black and thoroughly dry.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in the vestibule of Ghosterington Manor, a well appointed hall of black marble. Doorways lead west and north, and you can leave the manor to the south.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You're in a creaky, high-ceilinged hall of blackest wood. There are rooms west and east from here.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You're in the fabled Contrition Corner, where Vigilance Ghosterington was said to have flagellated himself after writing each of his awful poems. The stories must have been true because the walls really are red with his blood! Doorways leave this creepy room to the north and east.\n\nOn the west wall is a painting of Vigilance Ghosterington himself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The western way continues in all directions - except west.\n\nAn armoudillo shell lies discarded on the floor here.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is a plush room brightly lit by panels far above you in the walls and with a lush rug underfoot. Exits go south and east.\n\nTerror Statue is here.\n\nA writing desk is here. This must be where Ghosterington birthed his dread works.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room. The rug muffles her footsteps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "There's a big, dusty bed here. You wonder if Ghosterington ever really slept in this manor. The place has shown no signs of being anything than unliveable. Exits go west, south and east.\n\nTerror Statue materialises in the room and your heart skips a beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a plush room brightly lit by panels far above you in the walls and with a lush rug underfoot. Exits go south and east.\n\nA writing desk is here. This must be where Ghosterington birthed his dread works.\n\nThe clockwork girl plods into the room. The rug muffles her footsteps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the rug", "response": "You yank the rug and the clockwork girl topples over. She thrashes about madly, whirring and clicking like an overturned beetle, but she's not flexible enough to get back on her feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the axe", "response": "You try to snatch the axe from the clockwork girl's hands but it doesn't budge. She takes a retaliatory swipe at you. You realise that your head is now rolling across the floor as a result.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "Can it be? There's actually a dusty sheet of paper still here on the desk. It's one of Vigilance Ghosterington's poems! It's his famous scissors poem. You carefully take the poem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the poem", "response": "I run up to her post-haste and cry,\n\n\"Don't run with scissors,\"\n\nThe guck on me would make me scream\nIt'd really suck when you couldn't see\nhow freaked I was by your eyejuice on me", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\nthe scissors poem\npaper A\na black catsuit (being worn)\na six shooter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The western way continues in all directions - except west.\n\nAn armoudillo shell lies discarded on the floor here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shell", "response": "You turn the shell over and a piece of paper tumbles out. It's one of Vigilance Ghosterington's poems! It's his famous Thomas Hardy poem. You carefully take the poem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read hardy", "response": "Yo, write me, Tess of the D'Urbervilles!\nA-where you been hiding your mad email skills?\nI'm up here jumping like a yeoman\nbut I kinda got the feeling you been on the lam.\n\nand it ain't up on the heath, DAMN GIRL, I made an inspection!\nYou say you're a tall chick and just wanna have fun\nbut this silence sucks some major ass and's making me glum", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is a plush room brightly lit by panels far above you in the walls and with a lush rug underfoot. Exits go south and east.\n\nThe clockwork girl is thrashing about uselessly on the floor.\n\nA writing desk is here. This must be where Ghosterington birthed his dread works.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "There's a big, dusty bed here. You wonder if Ghosterington ever really slept in this manor. The place has shown no signs of being anything than unliveable. Exits go west, south and east.\n\nTerror Statue is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "This room is upholstered in pink velvet. The nauseating colour and texture makes you shudder. Exits lead west and south.\n\nThere's a small vanity here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vanity", "response": "In a drawer of the vanity you find a crumpled sheet of paper. It's one of Vigilance Ghosterington's poems! It's his famous Molecular Biology poem. You carefully take the poem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the biology", "response": "What would you say if I said, \"You have nice genes, babe.\" ?\n\nLet's wear white labcoats and have dinner sometime.\n\nIf I was a molecular biologist, I'd add some ligase to your buffer right now. In my lab, you'd find all the restriction enzymes you'd ever need.\n\nIn my lab, there would always be a bottle of fine white wine on the ice - stored in a separate refrigerator to the molecular biology specimens, of course.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The eastern way continues in all directions - except east.\n\nA long dead plant sits in a pot here, black and thoroughly dry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is a room made of solid, shining gold. Exits lead in all directions.\n\nYou hear three clicks from the floor as you enter the room.\n\nIn an instant, the golden ceiling descends to the floor, crushing you flat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mouth", "response": "As you step closer to examine the mouth, a tiny voice from behind the painting whispers:\n\n\"Brown cow's what I used to use\nI need another living muse\ntell me now what should it be\nas well you might, ho ho, hee hee!\"\n\nTerror Statue materialises in the room and your heart skips a beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Elephant", "response": "The voice whispers:\n\n\"You got it wrong\nkaboo, kabong!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mouth", "response": "A cold wall of pure fear is radiating from the statue. Your limbs tremble, your blood runs icy, then every part of you just stops at once.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shoot terror", "response": "(Terror Statue)\nThe statue vanishes in the blink of an eye just before your bullet would have hit it.\n\nYou've got one shot left.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Grey elephant", "response": "The voice whispers:\n\n\"With suchly flunk\nYou truly stunk.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in a creaky, high-ceilinged hall of blackest wood. There are rooms west and east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the plant", "response": "Let's get sane.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pot", "response": "You already searched the long dead plant. There's nothing else there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This room is upholstered in pink velvet. The nauseating colour and texture makes you shudder. Exits lead west and south.\n\nThere's a small vanity here.\n\nTerror Statue materialises in the room and your heart skips a beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "There's a big, dusty bed here. You wonder if Ghosterington ever really slept in this manor. The place has shown no signs of being anything than unliveable. Exits go west, south and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bed", "response": "You rummage through the bed and find a sheet of paper hidden amongst the sheets. You take it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine paper b.", "response": "There's one word on it: purple.\n\nTerror Statue materialises in the room and your heart skips a beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a plush room brightly lit by panels far above you in the walls and with a lush rug underfoot. Exits go south and east.\n\nThe clockwork girl is thrashing about uselessly on the floor.\n\nA writing desk is here. This must be where Ghosterington birthed his dread works.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Purple elephant", "response": "The painting slides aside and out of sight, revealing a passage to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Ooooh, a Secret Room!\nFew things are more exciting in an adventurer's life than the discovery of a secret room. These things include: jetpacking around Mount Everest, playing Twister on the moon and sharing a pot of tea with Lara Croft. You have done all these things, but you're still pretty pleased to have discovered this tiny secret location in Ghosterington Manor. There's a lever on the wall and an exit to the east.\n\nTrying and failing to be inconspicuous in the corner is a chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chest", "response": "You open the chest and find something inside. It's one of Vigilance Ghosterington's poems! It's his famous lobster poem. You've hit the jackpot! You carefully take the poem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the lobster", "response": "I tied my lobster to a tree. I came back later, but woe was me!\n\"Oh where oh where can my lobster be?\" (I asked no-one in particular.) Mirelle offered the following: \"Perhaps he has eloped in the romantic tradition.\"\nI considered what Mirelle had told me.\nWe disagreed, and a short while later our relationship began to go downhill.\n\nMy lobster ne'er was returned to me! Now I walk the Seine alone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "You move the lever to the OFF position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lever", "response": "It's labelled 'TERROR', and is currently in the off position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You're in the fabled Contrition Corner, where Vigilance Ghosterington was said to have flagellated himself after writing each of his awful poems. The stories must have been true because the walls really are red with his blood! Doorways leave this creepy room to the west, north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You retrieved the following poems from the manor:\n\nThe Thomas Hardy poem 2 million dollars\nThe Molecular Biology poem 4 million dollars\nThe lobster poem 9 million dollars\n\nTotal monetary value: 16 MILLION DOLLARS\n\nTotal cultural value: HIGHLY QUESTIONABLE", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n--- UH OH, IT'S MIDNIGHT ---\n\nGhosterington Manor vanishes and you vanish along with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Slice of life" ]

[ "1980s", "animated art", "ASCII art", "bbs", "character graphics", "coming of age", "d&d", "game within a game", "graphics", "I7 source available", "IF Competition 2012", "IFComp Game", "male protagonist", "Miss Congeniality Winner", "modem", "parser", "retro", "sound", "teenage protagonist", "vorple", "Xyzzy Awards 2012", "XYZZY Best NPCs" ]

[ 5, 20, 14, 1, 3 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "***You have connected to THE GUILD BBS*** Type LOGIN to enter the Adventurers' Lounge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Login", "response": "(Guilded Youth v2.0 for the IFComp 2012. HELP and CREDITS are available. Sound enabled on Chrome.)\n\n***WELCOME, TONY THE THIEF***\n\nYou can see a map, Harry the Barbarian, Paula the Mage, Ryan the Bard, Maximus the Cleric and Chris the Paladin here.\n\n\"hey tony\" says Ryan.\n\n\"voltron would kill optimus\" says Harry.\n\n\"he's like 5 robots in one\" says Harry.\n\n\"Optimus would have his whole team backing him up,\" says Chris.\n\nMaximus floats in on a cloud of glory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the map", "response": "Taken.\n\nPaula winks at you.\n\n\"VOLTROOOOOOOOOOOOOON!\" says Harry.\n\nChris transforms into an awesomebot.\n\nMaximus frowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the map", "response": "It's the route from your house to the Manor.\n\n\"LESS THAN MEETS THE EYE111\" says Harry.\n\n\"My child, strive to stay in character,\" advises Maximus sternly.\n\nPaula yawns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "Your access on the BBS only allows you to EXAMINE, LOOK, WAIT, SHOW something TO someone, or TAKE something.\n\nMaximus sees your attempt and smiles smugly, casually turning invisible -- something only a 8th level Guild member could do.\n\nChris drives circles around Harry.\n\n\"i stomp on your stupid ass!\" exclaims Harry.\n\nMaximus summons a dragon which proceeds to incinerate Harry the Barbarian and then disappear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Paula", "response": "Paula radiates with green sparkly power.\n\n\"Language and character violations will not be tolerated,\" intones Maximus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Ryan", "response": "A jaunty tunesmith.\n\nYou decide to leave before Maximus kicks you for some violation.\n\nType LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Maximus", "response": "Type LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Logout", "response": "***DISCONNECTED***\n\nYou switch off your C-64, dropping the room into complete darkness. Your eyes adjust quickly, as befits a fifth level thief. In the hallway you wait and listen for the sounds of your parents' deep sleep. From the upper floor window you gaze upon your dangerous destination. The Oakville Manor.\n\nYour front door clicks behind you. You turn to the east, where the Manor beckons invisibly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The map was a joke -- you don't really need a map to find your way, even past midnight. The forest at the end of the cul-de-sac smells damp and green, leading further to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Thanks to the full moon, you only trip once.\n\nYou've lived beside these woods for half of your 14 years. The way on leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You cross the electrical tower field, feeling rather than hearing its low hum. Superstition stops you from looking up at its wires. You can see the new development in the distance, the cause of your urgent mission, its machines like sleeping behemoths. But your destination is further east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Even crowded by wild brush, the grandest building in your neighbourhood still has a silent dignity. And to think: a few days from now, it'll be erased from history.\n\nThe Manor looms to the north. You know from experience that there's a coachhouse behind it, which you could get to by following a rough path to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You remember the first time you and Ryan found this place, he dared you to knock on the front door. You did him one better, opening the door and pushing it open to reveal the dark hall beyond. There was a cold-iron smell that conjured up a vision of shackles wrapped around a skeleton's wrists. Last year, when you drank your first beer behind the portables, you recognized the smell and realized the abandoned house must have just been a drinking spot for teenagers.\n\nYou can still see the dark hall in your mind's eye, mysterious shapes beckoning just beyond the front threshold. What were they?\n\nYou won't be plumbing the Manor's mysteries tonight: large planks of wood are nailed firmly across the front door. You curse under your breath. You can leave the portico to the south, or enter the Manor to the north.\n\nA paper in a plastic sheath is stapled to the planks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paper", "response": "It's a Notice of Demolition. Ryan overheard his mom talking to her other historical preservation friends about it, apparently there's some kind of structural damage that makes it dangerous. Personally you think it's more dangerous to let the cookie-cutter semi-detached monotony ooze slowly over the entire city.\n\nThe date on it indicates it's got three days to live. If you don't get to explore it fully it won't be the end of the world: just the end of your boyhood dreams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the paper", "response": "It's stapled down with about a million heavy duty staples. Plus, you can read it as it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "The double doors are large enough to drive a horse and carriage into, but one of them is missing, leaving an entryway to the north. Or you can return to the front of the Manor to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "There's a significant hole in the roof that lets in enough light to look around. You and Ryan have been in here before: until he saw a raccoon here it was practically your clubhouse. It's pretty well picked over as a result. You can leave to the south.\n\nA flutter of motion attracts your eye to something in the corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the corner", "response": "A magazine concerning ladies of the night. Unquestioningly valuable to many gentlemen of your acquaintance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "You manage to peel it off the floorboards.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "There's a significant hole in the roof that lets in enough light to look around. You and Ryan have been in here before: until he saw a raccoon here it was practically your clubhouse. It's pretty well picked over as a result. You can leave to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The double doors are large enough to drive a horse and carriage into, but one of them is missing, leaving an entryway to the north. Or you can return to the front of the Manor to the southwest.\n\nLoot in hand, you head for home, thinking about what your fellow adventurers will say when they see it.\n\nYou can see Harry the Barbarian, Paula the Mage, Ryan the Bard, Maximus the Cleric and Chris the Paladin here.\n\n\"Greetings, thief,\" says Maximus.\n\n\"2400 baud is totally enough! \" exclaims Harry.\n\nPaula laughs at 4800 baud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show tome to Ryan", "response": "\"Dude are you crazy waving that thing around?\" says Ryan the Bard.\n\n\"Yah Concrete Beach are just snobs, they're all pirates anyway,\" says Chris.\n\nMaximus says a silent prayer for pirates to mend their ways.\n\n\"I know they're pirates, I want the warez!!!\" exclaims Harry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ryan about the tome", "response": "Your access on the BBS only allows you to EXAMINE, LOOK, WAIT, SHOW something TO someone, or TAKE something.\n\nMaximus sees your attempt and smiles smugly, casually turning invisible -- something only a 8th level Guild member could do.\n\nThe other guild members chatter on. You wonder if there is a way to convince them to join you in a raid on the Manor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Ryan", "response": "You'd rather not fill the air with idle chatter. A silent thief is an effective thief. Though if you really need to get something done, you can ASK someone ABOUT something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Maximus about the tome", "response": "Your access on the BBS only allows you to EXAMINE, LOOK, WAIT, SHOW something TO someone, or TAKE something.\n\nMaximus sees your attempt and smiles smugly, casually transforming into a wyvern and back -- something only a 8th level Guild member could do.\n\n\"Whatcha got there?\" says Harry the Barbarian. \"SHOW it TO me!\n\nThe other guild members chatter on. You wonder if there is a way to convince them to join you in a raid on the Manor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the tome to Cleric", "response": "You don't dare. You'd be kicked from the Guild for sure.\n\n\"Whatcha got there?\" says Harry the Barbarian. \"SHOW it TO me!\n\nThe other guild members chatter on. You wonder if there is a way to convince them to join you in a raid on the Manor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the tome to Barbarian", "response": "\"where did you get this?\" whispers Harry. \"this is awesome!\"\n\nYou explain the Manor and the potential treasures within, if only you had a companion strong enough to breach the gate...\n\n***Harry the Barbarian has joined your party.***\n\nNow that you've got some muscle on board, time for another Manor raid.\n\nType LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Harry looks at the planks appraisingly. You can leave the portico to the south, or enter the Manor to the north.\n\nA paper in a plastic sheath is stapled to the planks.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Harry looks at the planks appraisingly. You can leave the portico to the south, or enter the Manor to the north.\n\nA paper in a plastic sheath is stapled to the planks.\n\nYou can also see Harry the Barbarian here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the planks", "response": "You're not one for ordering people about. You can ASK someone ABOUT something if you like.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Harry about the planks", "response": "You show Harry the problematic plank and he pulls a well-worn crowbar from his long bag. His chatter as he efficiently wrenches off the wood makes him oblivious to a slight clink you hear... then a rustle... and you'd swear it came from inside the house.\n\nYou push the door open with a creak...\n\nYou cross the threshold into the Manor, and achieve one of your boyhood dreams. You breathe the rarefied air, not sure what it is you smell, but appreciating that you're the first to have smelled it in... decades?\n\nTo the west you hear a shuffling and scratching. Maybe some animals got in?\n\nYou look around the space, slowly taking it in. A curving staircase, badly damaged, used to lead to the second floor. Strange shapes loom throughout the space. Hallways heading off to the east and the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shapes", "response": "You touch them and a plume of dust is raised -- dust that actually seems thicker than the sheets themselves. Across the room, Harry yanks one off and spends a full minute rubbing his eyes and coughing. For his trouble he's revealed a couple of unremarkable chairs.\n\nYour thief's instincts tell you that there's nothing but unwanted furniture under the sheets, too old to be fashionable but not old enough to be antique.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Based on the animal (?) sounds you heard earlier, you decide to leave that for last.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "The formidable door has one of those fancy crystalline doorknobs, which won't turn. It does, however, pull out in your hand and fall to the floor.\n\n\"Whoa, big guy,\" Harry says, patting you on the back. \"Easy there. Don't need to wreck the place.\n\nThe doorknob rolls to a stop on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the doorknob", "response": "You turn the crystal under the light, feeling its pleasing weight in your hand. As you slip your loot in your pocket, you feel a lightness in your belly.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the doorknob", "response": "Crystal or glass, beautifully cut in either case.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You take a few steps up and can go no further. There's about six stairs missing, a huge hole leading down into a pitch blackness. The hand rail bridges the gap and seems pretty sturdy, but not enough to bet your life on.\n\nAs you come down, Harry lets out a relieved breath. \"You don't look like much of a long jumper.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at stairs", "response": "There's about six stairs missing, a huge hole leading down into a pitch blackness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The Manor still has loot for the taking: you can smell it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Harry", "response": "Stocky and jocky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shapes", "response": "You touch them and a plume of dust is raised -- dust that actually seems thicker than the sheets themselves. Across the room, Harry yanks one off and spends a full minute rubbing his eyes and coughing. For his trouble he's revealed a couple of unremarkable chairs.\n\nYour thief's instincts tell you that there's nothing but unwanted furniture under the sheets, too old to be fashionable but not old enough to be antique.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "There are birds on the wallpaper, the fragments that remain, their black eyes appearing to watch you.\n\nFurther west there looks to be a dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the birds", "response": "Bird eyes have always creeped you out. You are fond of magpies, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You make your way towards the dining room, you start to hear hushed voices. Harry kicks something that hits the wall with a metal sound. Your heart jumps as the low voices in the other room pause.\n\nWhen they start up again you back slowly away, but not before pocketing the object Harry kicked.\n\nYou escape through the front door and emerge...\n\n\"Who the heck were those guys?\" said Harry. \"Jesus. Creepy.\"\n\nYou pull out your loot and admire it, a finely designed dessert fork. Sterling silver from its weight, and beautiful in the moonlight.\n\nHarry notices the look on your face. \"What are you, a klepto?\"\n\nYou decide it's time to head home west, away from prying eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "As you head for home, Harry keeps on with his blather. \"Oh, oh yeah. Your Guild character. Don't you think you take it a little too seriously?\"\n\nYou don't dignify that with an answer.\n\n\"Hey how can you be a thief with a good alignment anyway? Isn't that the opposite?\"\n\nYou walk faster and leave the Barbarian to struggle along with his large bag, and his ignorance, alone.\n\nYou can see Paula the Mage, Ryan the Bard, Maximus the Cleric and Chris the Paladin here.\n\nChris is here, shining a sword of great antiquity.\n\nPaula is checking her makeup in the sword's reflection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the doorknob", "response": "Crystal or glass, beautifully cut in either case.\n\nMaximus is enjoying the lack of barbaric chatter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fork", "response": "It's only slightly tarnished, and will polish up nicely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the fork to Mage", "response": "\"Doesn't match my other cutlery,\" says Paula the Mage. \"But thanks anyway, sweetie.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "O fork", "response": "\"Sounds like Victorian cutlery,\" Chris whispers. Chris agrees to meet you at the Manor later tonight.\n\n***Chris the Paladin has joined your party.***", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the knob to Bard", "response": "\"Cool loot,\" whispers Ryan. He agrees to meet you at your place later tonight.\n\n***Ryan the Bard has joined your party.***\nThat's enough reinforcements for another Manor raid. Type LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Logout", "response": "***DISCONNECTED***\n\nRyan meets you in front of your house. He's as jumpy as always. You check to see if he's brought his picks, and he pulls them briefly out of a schoolbag festooned with band names.\n\nThe Manor beckons invisibly to the east.\n\nYou can see Ryan the Bard here.\n\n\"Never actually used them except on the test lock,\" Ryan says, pulling his hat off and waving it at his face. It's pretty muggy out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The forest at the end of the cul-de-sac smells damp and green, leading further to the east.\n\nYou describe the kind of keyhole it is as you head over. \"Oh yeah, those are easier than modern ones.\" He gives you a sly smile. \"Maybe you wanna give it a shot.\"\n\nYou punch him in the shoulder at the reminder of your one thiefly failure. You've never had a knack for picks. It came up when Ryan wanted to join the Guild as a thief, but luckily he changed his mind and decided his mastery of three chords qualified him as a bard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You've lived beside these woods for half of your 14 years. The way on leads east.\n\nYou ask him about the kids at his new school, the Catholic one his mom made him go to. \"Pretty boring. I'm the only one into hardcore and cool music there,\" he bragplains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You cross the electrical tower field, feeling rather than hearing its low hum. Superstition stops you from looking up at its wires. You can see the new development in the distance, the cause of your urgent mission, its machines like sleeping behemoths. But your destination is further east.\n\nYou ask him if he's made it downtown to a hardcore show yet. He shrugs. \"Not yet. They start so late that there's like no way to get back here before transit stops.\"\n\nHe shoots a glance at you to see how well this latest excuse works. You keep your face neutral. You can mock him after the job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Even crowded by wild brush, the grandest building in your neighbourhood still has a silent dignity. And to think: a few days from now, it'll be erased from history.\n\nThe Manor looms to the north. You know from experience that there's a coachhouse behind it, which you could get to by following a rough path to the northeast.\n\nThere's a girl in a track suit in front of the Manor. You keep it cool and introduce yourself.\n\n\"Hey I'm Chris,\" she says, then trains her dark eyes on your friend. \"And I guess you're Ryan?\"\n\nRyan, as usual in the presence of a non-boy, is motionless, so you nod for him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Chris", "response": "She's wearing a tracksuit and a short haircut. Something about her eyes makes her look ready for a fight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Chris stops when she sees the planks and the forcible entry. \"Whoa, I didn't know you guys broke in, I thought it was abandoned.\" Doubt flickers across her eyes. \"My dad's a cop. It'd kill him if I --\" She shakes her head. Then she notices the notice stapled to the door and relaxes a bit. \"Oh, well. If it's gonna be trashed anyway...\" You can leave the portico to the south, or enter the Manor to the north.\n\nA paper in a plastic sheath is stapled to the planks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A curving staircase, badly damaged, used to lead to the second floor. Strange shapes loom throughout the space. Hallways heading off to the east and the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "\"Uh,\" Ryan says, \"Sounds like there's people there. Why don't we search the other rooms first?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ryan about the door", "response": "\"Ready to do your magic?\" you say to Ryan, motioning at the locked door.\nHis eyes go big and he shakes his head, glancing over at Chris. Oh, right. That comment about her dad being a cop has him spooked. Not that it takes a lot to get him spooked.\n\nA curving staircase, badly damaged, used to lead to the second floor. Strange shapes loom throughout the space. Hallways heading off to the east and the west. Chris looks around, a smile on her face. She seems intrigued by the hole in the stairs.\n\nYou can see Chris the Paladin and Ryan the Bard here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Chris about the hole", "response": "Chris approaches the hole in the stairs and adjusts her headband.\n\nShe tests the banister first and then hangs from it. You feel your heart lurch as her legs dangle into the hole. \"When I started gymnastics,\" she says, going hand over hand across the gap. \"I always used to imagine using my training in an adventure.\"\n\n\"This is kind of an adventure,\" pipes up Ryan, looking at you for confirmation. \"Right?\"\n\nShe gets to the other side, and flips her feet out onto solid ground.\n\n\"Sure, kid,\" she says. She takes a penlight out of her sweatpants pocket and disappears into the second floor darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ryan about the door", "response": "You and Ryan go to the door. Ryan sizes it up as he takes out his picks. \"Keep an eye out for the cop's daughter,\" he says, a pick hanging from his mouth as he goes about his work.\n\nA few seconds later, the door to the east is open. Ryan can't keep a smile off his face, and you pat him on the shoulder.\n\nThis was clearly a library or office of some kind. The walls are lined with bookshelves, empty but for thick layers of dust. There's a large desk pushed against a wall at a weird angle. You picture the owners packing up and needing to get it out of the way to get something else out of the door.\n\nYou can leave to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move desk", "response": "A few seconds of futile pushing makes it clear why it was left here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "The desk was probably too big to get out through the door, so they just left it there. All its drawers are missing. It's a lovely old wooden specimen, however, and it saddens you it will be smashed to pieces in two days. As you run a fond hand over it, you notice a glint in the inkwell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at inkwell", "response": "The glint you saw is from a letter opener. Your lithe fingers tease it out and Ryan crowds around. \"Oooh, a dagger,\" he says. You reluctantly hand it over.\n\nRyan feels the edge and then scoffs. \"Super-dull,\" he says, handing it back.\n\nYour heart lightens and you don't correct him. You secret it away for closer inspection later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the opener", "response": "Pretty bad-ass looking for an antique.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bookshelves", "response": "Not a single book left behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "\"There you guys are,\" Chris says grumpily as you come out. She gets up from the bottom of the stairs, where she's been sitting.\n\nShe's got her arms crossed and a funny look on her face. Despite her efforts, you notice there's a small bulge in her jacket.\n\nYou're about to ask her about it when there's a smashing sound to the west, followed by a peel of laughter.\n\nRyan nearly jumps out of his skin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "When Ryan sees you heading towards the noise instead of away, he makes for the exit.\n\n\"Um... band practice, gotta go... nicetomeetyoubye!\" he says. When he gets out of the house he abandons all dignity and just starts running.\n\nChris gives you a sly smile and walks along with you.\n\nThere are birds on the wallpaper, the fragments that remain, their black eyes appearing to watch you.\n\nFurther west there looks to be a dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You inch forward a bit and try to catch a glimpse of the dining room occupants. You dip in and out, catching a glimpse of a long haired one, a guy with some kind of suit jacket, and two or three more. They appear to be setting the table...?\n\nYou feel Chris's hand on your arm, pulling you back.\n\nThe clink of dinner plates and cutlery cover up the sounds of conversation.\n\n\"...definitely candles, it gives...\"\n\nChris lets go of your arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You lean in and listen in a bit more.\n\n\"...as if we're the lords of the Manor. The pinnacle of suburban decadence. Rome before the malls moved in.\"\n\nChris gives you a confused look, and you shrug.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "No way are you going in there without at least two people to back you up. \"Probably we should get out while the getting's good,\" Chris whispers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A curving staircase, badly damaged, used to lead to the second floor. Strange shapes loom throughout the space. Hallways heading off to the east and the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This was clearly a library or office of some kind. The walls are lined with bookshelves, empty but for thick layers of dust. There's a large desk pushed against a wall at a weird angle. You picture the owners packing up and needing to get it out of the way to get something else out of the door.\n\nYou can leave to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You can leave the portico to the south, or enter the Manor to the north.\n\nA paper in a plastic sheath is stapled to the planks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Even crowded by wild brush, the grandest building in your neighbourhood still has a silent dignity. And to think: a few days from now, it'll be erased from history.\n\nThe Manor looms to the north. You know from experience that there's a coachhouse behind it, which you could get to by following a rough path to the northeast.\n\nYou leave the house behind.\n\nChris kneels to tie her running shoe. Her jacket pocket opens wide -- inside is a gold gleam that makes your fingers itch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gold", "response": "It's gorgeous, clam-shaped and golden.\n\nWhen Chris stands, a golden pocketwatch falls to the ground.\n\nChris looks at you. \"See ya around, I guess.\" She melts into the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take watch", "response": "You lean over to pick up the watch, and -- bam! -- Chris tackles you from out of nowhere! You find yourself on your back, her arm pinning your neck down. \"Dirty... thief...\" she puffs, smirking, her eyes shining.\n\nHer hands go all over your body, searching for something. Finally her hand rests on a ridge in your pants.\n\n\"Ah hah...\" she crows. \"What have we here? Holding out on me, you dirty thief?\" She's breathing hard, her face a few inches from yours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kiss her", "response": "You can't -- she's got you pinned too good, but then she reads your intentions and lets up just... enough... for you to kiss her. When you try to slip her some tongue, she gasps and pins you again. \"Oh no, oh no you don't,\" she says, her eyes blazing, covering your mouth with her hand.\n\nWhen you don't struggle, she rolls off you and takes the letter opener with her. You look up at the sky, the moon barely visible, thinking about how weird it is that you're lying in the grass in front of the Manor. A few nights from now, it'll all be gone.\n\n\"What's that handle, mother of pearl?\" Chris says, squinting at it before tossing it onto your chest. \"You find the coolest stuff in these old houses.\"\n\nThe watch sits in your open palm. You look up at Chris, and she's snapping a hairclip that got dislodged into place.\n\nYou have never wanted anything more in your life.\n\n\"Why don't you hold onto that for me, thief,\" she says, pulling her collar up. \"My dad would find it eventually.\"\n\nShe looks at you, a strange smile twisting her lips, and then she runs off into the forest.\n\nYou look longingly after her to to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You can see what you're carrying in the left column, and your current party members in the right column.\n\nLoot in hand, you head for home.\n\nYou can see Harry the Barbarian, Ryan the Bard, Paula the Mage and Maximus the Cleric here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the watch to max", "response": "\"An exquisite item,\" Maximus says. \"It'll help you tick off the hours you'll spend in hell for your evil ways.\"\n\nYou explain that the Manor is condemned anyway. \"The Oakville Manor? I know that grand old place...\" Maximus says. He agrees to join your raiding party.\n\n***Maximus the Cleric has joined your party.***\n\"dice are stupid anyway,\" Harry says. \"no skill.\"\n\nMaximus struggles with his vow of serenity.\n\n\"hi tony,\" whispers Paula.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show opener to Harry", "response": "\"Are you threatening me? hahahahahaha\" says Harry the Barbarian.\n\nHarry scratches his bum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show opener to Paula", "response": "\"Ooh, pretty pretty... I do get a lot of correspondence...\" she says. Paula agrees to join your raiding party.\n\n***Paula the Mage has joined your party.***\n\nThat's enough backup for a final Manor raid. Type LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Logout", "response": "\" he says. \"If it gets traced back to the Guild, they can easily shut us down.\"\n\nYou cross the electrical tower field, feeling rather than hearing its low hum. Superstition stops you from looking up at its wires. You can see the new development in the distance, the cause of your urgent mission, its machines like sleeping behemoths. But your destination is further east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Even crowded by wild brush, the grandest building in your neighbourhood still has a silent dignity. And to think: a few days from now, it'll be erased from history.\n\nThe Manor looms to the north. You know from experience that there's a coachhouse behind it, which you could get to by following a rough path to the northeast.\n\nPaula -- you assume it's Paula, though she looks more goth than witch -- takes one last drag on her smoke before killing it under a creeper boot.\n\n\"Hello, boys,\" says Paula in a soft, deep voice. \"You ready to knock over this joint?\"\n\nYou nod.\n\nPaula turns toward the Manor and begins to pull on lacy gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Max glances at the paper. \"I'd like to say that my only interest in entering this building is to preserve--\"\n\nPaula cuts him off with a stagey yawn.\n\nYou can leave the portico to the south, or enter the Manor to the north.\n\nA paper in a plastic sheath is stapled to the planks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A curving staircase, badly damaged, used to lead to the second floor. Strange shapes loom throughout the space. Hallways heading off to the east and the west. It's familiar ground to you now, but the others look around in awe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Max stops you. \"First things first: let's find the wine cellar.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "You come up to the huge ragged hole in the stairs. Max peers into the hole. \"Looks like it goes straight to the wine cellar,\" he says, pulling off his backpack.\n\nAll business, he pulls out a rope and attaches it to the banister, letting the end dangle down into the inky hole.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You take a few steps up and can go no further. There's about six stairs missing, a huge hole leading down into a pitch blackness with a rope disappearing into it. The hand rail bridges the gap and seems pretty sturdy, but not enough to bet your life on.\n\nMax, wearing a headband with a light attached, starts to climb down the rope. There's a tense moment when the banister squeaks, but it holds fast.\n\nAlone, you and Paula trade a silent look of surprise.\n\nShe's about to say something when a laugh comes from the room to the west. The dining room. And is that the tinkle of cutlery?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the rope", "response": "You remember gym class rope climbing last year and decide against it. You're nimble, but your upper body strength is for shit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You stop just outside the dining room in the hallway and peek in. There's a whole dinner party going on inside. You whisper to Paula that you recognize the guy from yesterday.\n\n\"Yes,\" she says, her face flooding with emotion. \"I recognize him too.\"\n\nBefore you can contest, she adjusts her hat, squares her shoulders, and strides into the dining room... taking you with her.\n\nThere are six people around the large table, the guys from yesterday plus a couple more. The guy with the strange bangs and suit jacket is at the head of the table beside a goth girl who's too beautiful to look at directly. The table is laid out beautifully, a candelabra melting onto the white tablecloth, chipped plates trimmed with gold.\n\nYou can see Paula the Mage here.\n\nPaula sits down at an empty chair and seats you beside her. There's no plate, but she reaches across the table and wrenches a drumstick from the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine guy", "response": "A beard big enough to hide a mouse in. You can smell the patchouli from here. A thin tattooed girl glances over at him frequently.\n\n\"Um... hi,\" says the fellow in the suit jacket. Everyone's staring at Paula as she gnaws the drumstick, and you will yourself invisible.\n\nShe points the drumstick at him and you see a drop of grease fall onto the tablecloth. \"You stole my idea, Erik. And then you didn't even invite me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the candelabra", "response": "There's more candles than abra, and it doesn't look all that steady.\n\n\"Well, I would say it was our idea,\" says Erik.\n\nPaula reaches over and takes the closest goblet. Its bespectacled owner pretends he doesn't notice. She takes a sip and then spits it out, luckily away from you. \"A white? With duck, Erik?\"\n\nErik grimaces. \"They were out of--\"\n\nHe stops suddenly, seeing Max in the doorway with a bottle of wine in each hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "What do you want to sit on?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "There are six people around the large table, the guys from yesterday plus a couple more. The guy with the strange bangs and suit jacket is at the head of the table beside a goth girl who's too beautiful to look at directly. The table is laid out beautifully, a candelabra melting onto the white tablecloth, chipped plates trimmed with gold.\n\nThere's a bottle of white wine with a dusty label, within arms' reach.\n\nYou can also see Maximus the Cleric and Paula the Mage here.\n\n\"Ah, sommelier,\" Paula waves him over, proving herself an improvisational genius. Max comes, his eyes stunned, and only squeaks a bit as she pulls the dusty bottles from his grasp.\n\nShe sets one on the table and reads the label on the other. Max backs away towards the door, and then makes a break for it, his backpack clinking with other bottles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the duck", "response": "(first taking Drumstick)\nYou're not really hungry.\n\n\"Ah -- a pinot noir,\" she says, uncorking it with surprising ease. \"That's suitable for duck.\"\n\nShe goes around the table, picking up a goblet still full of wine. \"What's the point in doing something --\" throws the white wine onto the floor, \"-- if you're not going to go all the way with it?\" She fills the goblet and bangs it down onto the table, sloshing red, and the candelabra sways a bit. The light in the room sways too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the wine", "response": "(the bottle of white wine)\nA good thief doesn't get high on his own supply.\n\n\"The rules are the least interesting part of this,\" Erik snaps back. \"You always take things too far.\"\n\nThe dreadlocked man gulps down his white and holds it up for Paula, who overfills it. \"Whoops, I guess I do. I guess it's why you kicked me out of the freak clique, huh?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bottle", "response": "(the bottle of white wine)\n\nTaken.\n\n\"Look, Paul,\" started Erik, his voice tired and sad. \"I--\"\n\n\"It's Paula, you stupid fuck!\" She throws the bottle at him,\nand the last thing you see before you leave the room is the candelabra falling onto the tablecloth.\n\nIn a rush you see the birds on the wallpaper, the front door still open, the flattened grass in front of you and before too long, you're back in your bedroom. You take off your clothes, trying to decide if they smell of smoke or just of guilt.\n\nYou're in your bed when the fire sirens start to wail and the flames are becoming visible on the Manor. It's sad, but when you consider that the Manor was otherwise facing crowbars and rough hands and wrecking balls in the morning... better a funeral pyre.\n\n***\n\nA week, two weeks, three weeks pass. You use your nights for sleeping, not sneaking. Your modem neither winks or squeals. And no one in the Guild squeals either, since the knock on your door never comes. When Ryan tells you something funny Harry said online yesterday, you realize -- if even Ryan is sticking his head up -- that the smoke has cleared.\n\nYou decide to LOGIN again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the wine to Chris", "response": "(the bottle of white wine to Chris the Paladin)\nFor some reason, this feels like a significant choice. Any of your friends would like the wine. Are you sure? (Y/N)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You reconsider.\n\n\"Here: COPS DON'T SUSPECT ARSON\" says Harry.\n\nMaximus lifts his staff and Harry vanishes.\n\nPaula rolls her eyes.\n\n\"Long time no see\" says Chris.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "\"Well well,\" whispers Chris. \"Quite a score, thief.\" You arrange to meet tonight.\n\n***Chris the Paladin has joined your party.***\n\nType LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Logout", "response": "***DISCONNECTED***\n\nYou start smelling the burned Manor from the forest. Guilt and excitement compete in your belly as you emerge...\n\nThe ring of brush is blackened. The Manor's roof is caved in, beaten to its knees by the firehose water. They must have gotten here quickly as there's good chunks of the eastern wing that are mostly intact.\n\nThe portico is wrapped in that yellow police tape that you've only seen in cop shows.\n\nTo the northeast is the coachhouse, tonight's rendezvous spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The double doors are large enough to drive a horse and carriage into, but one of them is missing, leaving an entryway to the north.\n\nThe small structure seems to have far enough away to have been spared the fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "There's a significant hole in the roof that lets in enough light to look around. The moonlight gives everything an unearthly hue.\n\nChris isn't here.\n\nYou look up at the moon through the roof, feeling like a jackass.\n\nWhen you turn to leave, you see her framed in the doorway, grinning. \"Had to make sure this wasn't a set up.\"\n\nShe sits down on a wooden crate and pulls tumblers out of her duffel bag. She smells them first before sticking them out. \"Wine me!\"\n\nLater that night, drunk, she chews you out for not including her in your scheme to burn down the Manor. You explain that it wasn't a scheme, that you would never not include her in schemes, and she makes you pinky promise... and then pinky wrestle, then the kissing, and the rubbing, and then the puking puts an end to that.\n\nBut it's only the beginning of your scheming together. After a particularly successful scheme eight years later, the two of you lie in a bed with a view of the Mediterranean, tracing the route of what got you there from your...\n\nClick here to play again.\ndebugcheapnitfol quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "***You have connected to THE GUILD BBS*** Type LOGIN to enter the Adventurers' Lounge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Skipthru", "response": "There are six people around the large table, the guys from yesterday plus a couple more. The guy with the strange bangs and suit jacket is at the head of the table beside a goth girl who's too beautiful to look at directly. The table is laid out beautifully, a candelabra melting onto the white tablecloth, chipped plates trimmed with gold.\n\nPaula sits down at an empty chair and seats you beside her. There's no plate, but she reaches across the table and wrenches a drumstick from the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the girl", "response": "Which do you mean, the goth girl or the thin tattooed girl?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goth", "response": "Black lipstick and eyeshadow is all you get before you have to avert your eyes. She's definitely not from your school, or any school that you can imagine. Beside her is a dreadlocked guy with a large beard, picking his teeth with a bone.\n\n\"Um... hi,\" says the fellow in the suit jacket. Everyone's staring at Paula as she gnaws the drumstick, and you will yourself invisible.\n\nShe points the drumstick at him and you see a drop of grease fall onto the tablecloth. \"You stole my idea, Erik. And then you didn't even invite me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the thin girl", "response": "Feathered short hair with bird-like nervous movements to match, but you don't know if it's Paula-inspired.\n\n\"Well, I would say it was our idea,\" says Erik.\n\nPaula reaches over and takes the closest goblet. Its bespectacled owner pretends he doesn't notice. She takes a sip and then spits it out, luckily away from you. \"A white? With duck, Erik?\"\n\nErik grimaces. \"They were out of--\"\n\nHe stops suddenly, seeing Max in the doorway with a bottle of wine in each hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Erik about Manor", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Ah -- a pinot noir,\" she says, uncorking it with surprising ease. \"That's suitable for duck.\"\n\nShe goes around the table, picking up a goblet still full of wine. \"What's the point in doing something --\" throws the white wine onto the floor, \"-- if you're not going to go all the way with it?\" She fills the goblet and bangs it down onto the table, sloshing red, and the candelabra sways a bit. The light in the room sways too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the wine", "response": "(the bottle of white wine)\n\nTaken.\n\n\"The rules are the least interesting part of this,\" Erik snaps back. \"You always take things too far.\"\n\nThe dreadlocked man gulps down his white and holds it up for Paula, who overfills it. \"Whoops, I guess I do. I guess it's why you kicked me out of the freak clique, huh?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Look, Paul,\" started Erik, his voice tired and sad. \"I--\"\n\n\"It's Paula, you stupid fuck!\" She throws the bottle at him,\nand the last thing you see before you leave the room is the candelabra falling onto the tablecloth.\n\nIn a rush you see the birds on the wallpaper, the front door still open, the flattened grass in front of you and before too long, you're back in your bedroom. You take off your clothes, trying to decide if they smell of smoke or just of guilt.\n\nYou're in your bed when the fire sirens start to wail and the flames are becoming visible on the Manor. It's sad, but when you consider that the Manor was otherwise facing crowbars and rough hands and wrecking balls in the morning... better a funeral pyre.\n\n***\n\nA week, two weeks, three weeks pass. You use your nights for sleeping, not sneaking. Your modem neither winks or squeals. And no one in the Guild squeals either, since the knock on your door never comes. When Ryan tells you something funny Harry said online yesterday, you realize -- if even Ryan is sticking his head up -- that the smoke has cleared.\n\nYou decide to LOGIN again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the wine to Paula", "response": "(the bottle of white wine to Paula the Mage)\nFor some reason, this feels like a significant choice. Any of your friends would like the wine. Are you sure? (Y/N)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "\"Ah, wondered what happened to that,\" Paula whispers. You arrange to meet tonight.\n\n***Paula the Mage has joined your party.***\n\nType LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Logout", "response": "***DISCONNECTED***\n\nYou start smelling the burned Manor from the forest. Guilt and excitement compete in your belly as you emerge...\n\nThe ring of brush is blackened. The Manor's roof is caved in, beaten to its knees by the firehose water. They must have gotten here quickly as there's good chunks of the eastern wing that are mostly intact.\n\nThe portico is wrapped in that yellow police tape that you've only seen in cop shows.\n\nTo the northeast is the coachhouse, tonight's rendezvous spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The double doors are large enough to drive a horse and carriage into, but one of them is missing, leaving an entryway to the north.\n\nThe small structure seems to have far enough away to have been spared the fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "There's a significant hole in the roof that lets in enough light to look around. The moonlight gives everything an unearthly hue.\n\nYou can see Paula the Mage here.\n\nPaula is sitting cross-legged on a wooden crate, looking up at the moonlight. She's not wearing her makeup today, and you can get a sense of how she looked when she was Paul.\n\nShe stretches out her hand for the wine. \"Well, c'mon, let's see if it was worth burning a house down for.\"\n\nThat night you hear the whole history of the Freak Clique. The baffling pyrotechnics you witnessed in the dining room was the tip of the iceberg, the final scene in a complex teenaged drama -- a type that you never want to star in.\n\nBut by the end of the story you decide that Paula is one of the weirdest people you've ever met, and so of course she becomes one of your best friends.\n\nTwenty years later, she throws you a crazy bachelor party which ends, as always, with the two of you in your cups reminiscing about your...\n\nClick here to play again.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "%", "response": "***You have connected to THE GUILD BBS*** Type LOGIN to enter the Adventurers' Lounge", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Skipthru", "response": "There are six people around the large table, the guys from yesterday plus a couple more. The guy with the strange bangs and suit jacket is at the head of the table beside a goth girl who's too beautiful to look at directly. The table is laid out beautifully, a candelabra melting onto the white tablecloth, chipped plates trimmed with gold.\n\nPaula sits down at an empty chair and seats you beside her. There's no plate, but she reaches across the table and wrenches a drumstick from the bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Um... hi,\" says the fellow in the suit jacket. Everyone's staring at Paula as she gnaws the drumstick, and you will yourself invisible.\n\nShe points the drumstick at him and you see a drop of grease fall onto the tablecloth. \"You stole my idea, Erik. And then you didn't even invite me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Well, I would say it was our idea,\" says Erik.\n\nPaula reaches over and takes the closest goblet. Its bespectacled owner pretends he doesn't notice. She takes a sip and then spits it out, luckily away from you. \"A white? With duck, Erik?\"\n\nErik grimaces. \"They were out of--\"\n\nHe stops suddenly, seeing Max in the doorway with a bottle of wine in each hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Ah, sommelier,\" Paula waves him over, proving herself an improvisational genius. Max comes, his eyes stunned, and only squeaks a bit as she pulls the dusty bottles from his grasp.\n\nShe sets one on the table and reads the label on the other. Max backs away towards the door, and then makes a break for it, his backpack clinking with other bottles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Ah -- a pinot noir,\" she says, uncorking it with surprising ease. \"That's suitable for duck.\"\n\nShe goes around the table, picking up a goblet still full of wine. \"What's the point in doing something --\" throws the white wine onto the floor, \"-- if you're not going to go all the way with it?\" She fills the goblet and bangs it down onto the table, sloshing red, and the candelabra sways a bit. The light in the room sways too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the wine", "response": "(the bottle of white wine)\n\nTaken.\n\n\"The rules are the least interesting part of this,\" Erik snaps back. \"You always take things too far.\"\n\nThe dreadlocked man gulps down his white and holds it up for Paula, who overfills it. \"Whoops, I guess I do. I guess it's why you kicked me out of the freak clique, huh?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the wine to Ryan", "response": "(the bottle of white wine to Ryan the Bard)\nFor some reason, this feels like a significant choice. Any of your friends would like the wine. Are you sure? (Y/N)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "\"Wicked!!!! Let's get wasted!\" Ryan whispers. You arrange to meet tonight in the usual place.\n\n***Ryan the Bard has joined your party.***\n\nType LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Logout", "response": "***DISCONNECTED***\n\nYou start smelling the burned Manor from the forest. Guilt and excitement compete in your belly as you emerge...\n\nThe ring of brush is blackened. The Manor's roof is caved in, beaten to its knees by the firehose water. They must have gotten here quickly as there's good chunks of the eastern wing that are mostly intact.\n\nThe portico is wrapped in that yellow police tape that you've only seen in cop shows.\n\nTo the northeast is the coachhouse, tonight's rendezvous spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Wisely, your instincts refuse to let you return to the scene of the crime.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The double doors are large enough to drive a horse and carriage into, but one of them is missing, leaving an entryway to the north.\n\nThe small structure seems to have far enough away to have been spared the fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "There's a significant hole in the roof that lets in enough light to look around. The moonlight gives everything an unearthly hue.\n\nYou can see Ryan the Bard here.\n\nRyan jumps a bit as he sees you. You lift the bottle of wine. \"Nice! I got some jungle juice to put us over the top,\" he says, pulling a soda bottle out. \"And some pretzels!\"\n\nYou hunker down on the floor and start to work on the cork.\n\nThat night you develop a lifetime hatred of gin and a renewed faith in your friendship with Ryan. At school he'd become a bit evasive lately, but you find out how hard he's trying to fit in. It's something you don't care about, but it explains why he acts so weird in class sometimes.\n\nTen years later you're on tour together and in a convenience store in Detroit. Ryan finds a bottle of the same stuff. You lift it & some pretzels and drink it in a squat later that night, laughing about your....\n\nClick here to play again.\ndebugcheapnitfol quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take bottle", "response": "(the bottle of white wine)\n\nTaken.\n\n\"Ah -- a pinot noir,\" she says, uncorking it with surprising ease. \"That's suitable for duck.\"\n\nShe goes around the table, picking up a goblet still full of wine. \"What's the point in doing something --\" throws the white wine onto the floor, \"-- if you're not going to go all the way with it?\" She fills the goblet and bangs it down onto the table, sloshing red, and the candelabra sways a bit. The light in the room sways too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"The rules are the least interesting part of this,\" Erik snaps back. \"You always take things too far.\"\n\nThe dreadlocked man gulps down his white and holds it up for Paula, who overfills it. \"Whoops, I guess I do. I guess it's why you kicked me out of the freak clique, huh?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the wine to Harry", "response": "(the bottle of white wine to Harry the Barbarian)\nYou're about to when Harry opens his big mouth again.\n\n\"Here: COPS DON'T SUSPECT ARSON\" says Harry.\n\nMaximus lifts his staff and Harry vanishes.\n\nPaula rolls her eyes.\n\n\"Long time no see\" says Chris.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the wine to Maximus", "response": "(the bottle of white wine to Maximus the Cleric)\nFor some reason, this feels like a significant choice. Any of your friends would like the wine. Are you sure? (Y/N)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "\"Splendid! I presumed that lost in the... accident,\" whispers Maximus. You arrange to meet tonight.\n\n***Maximus the Cleric has joined your party.***\n\nType LOGOUT to continue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "There's a significant hole in the roof that lets in enough light to look around. The moonlight gives everything an unearthly hue.\n\nYou can see Maximus the Cleric here.\n\nMaximus is reading a book that he puts away when you arrive. You recognize it from the cover art. \"Looking forward to the second edition?\"\n\nMaximus' nostrils flare. \"Actually, I'm not.\" He raps the book inside his backpack. \"The Dungeon Masters Guide is pretty much the definitive edition. It's held me well for a decade, and I have no intention of changing.\"\n\nYou nod soberly and show him the wine. \"Ah,\" he says, taking out a satchel and removing some money from it. He gives you eight dollars. \"10% of the anticipated retail value,\" he says. He puts it in his backpack, nods to you, and leaves the coachhouse.\n\nYou can't decide if you're disappointed or relieved not to be drinking with Maximus.\n\nFive years later, you're on campus going between classes. You see Maximus walking towards you, earnestly talking to a guy your age about something called a hedge fund. He sees you seeing him, but he averts his eyes, and soon the two of them disappear into the School of Business. You check the wallet you snagged on the way by and confirm that it's him. It's funny, because of all of you, he seemed most likely to be a lifer... but it seems that Maximus the Cleric now disavows your...\n\nClick here to play again.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "cover art", "fantasy", "first person", "genie", "IF Competition 2000", "IFComp Game", "multiple protagonists", "nonhuman protagonist", "past tense", "walkthrough" ]

[ 5, 11, 12, 4, 0 ]

[ { "action": "You examine Seegan", "response": "(Seegan)\nHer physical undercurrents flowed of unattractiveness. Her emotional\nwinds raged with sadness, separation, self-reconciliation and\ndetermination. Her mental flows darted and crackled with creativity.\n\nShe wore the ring that contained my essence.\n\nSeegan stared at me. Her eyes had the typical glaze of awe but lacked\nthe typical glimmer of San.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You talk to Seegan", "response": "I told my Purpose. I was a servant of limited power who would grant\nthree wishes. The first wish was to be stated within one minute of my\nexplanation. The second was to be stated on the day one year from the\nfirst, in the same physical location as the first. The third, ten\nyears on the day and in the same location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ring", "response": "The brass ring had the word \"Canloc\" inscribed. It had been my\ncontainer for many summoners. I would return to it after granting\nwishes. It protected me from complete loss of Purpose.\n\nSeegan took out a hand mirror, looked at it for a final assessment and\nthen put it away. She told me, \"I've thought about it, and I wish to\nbe beautiful.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "stated desire. Of those that would accomplish this, only one was I\nWillful enough to channel.\n\nwas, by itself, more Purposeful than I could manage. But if I\nsimultaneously channeled an attractor current, I could integrate them\nthrough my summoner and fulfill the wish. I chose the undercurrent of\n\n1) lycanthropy.\n2) a deep sleep.\n3) an inhumanly shrill voice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "The wish was granted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Seegan", "response": "(Seegan)\nHer physical undercurrents stormed with attractiveness. Her emotional\nwinds raged with conflicting happiness and separation, dilemma and\ndetermination. Her mental flows darted and crackled with creativity.\nHer movements resembled those of a fox.\n\nShe wore the ring that contained my essence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search undercurrent", "response": "I wondered. Which did I mean, Seegan's physical, Seegan's emotional\nor Seegan's mental?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Seegan's mental", "response": "Her mental undercurrents were difficult for me to interpret. Cold,\nthen hot, then cold again. These winds were conditioned, although not\nruled, by her emotions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the seegan's physical", "response": "Her undercurrents continued their warmth but now flowed with the winds\nand not against them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the emerald", "response": "The emerald was as large as a human head. Its \"neck\" was tapered to a\nsharp point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Seegan's emotional", "response": "The cold winds of separation flurried within her. Together with the\nphysical they linked, although distantly, to those of her father.\nDeep within these flurries was a pocket of fear, apparently kept in\ncheck by the torrent outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the emerald", "response": "Through Will of Purpose, I channeled the undercurrents of the emerald.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the body", "response": "I found the remains to be no different than any other.\n\nThrough Will of Purpose, I continued channeling the undercurrents of\nthe emerald.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the emerald", "response": "I dropped my undercurrent connection with the emerald.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I was not impeded by the elements of the physical world. The farther\nI traveled from the location of my initial summons, the more Purpose I\nexpended.\n\nThen too I realized where I was and could [recall the area] whenever I\nneeded.\n\nVault Hall, Nearer to the Entrance\nThe passageway began there and continued east. There were doors on\nthe northern and southern sides, each with a set of uniquely engraved\nrunes. A thick, stone wall blocked physical travel west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the runes", "response": "The runes on the northern door depicted a sun melting various objects.\nThose on the southern door showed lemmings running to and over a\ncliff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Blasts of the mental passed through me as I entered the room. But\nthey had no effect at all.\n\nVault Storage, Money\nAt one time, stacks of coins made of rare metals were stored there.\nOnce, in fulfilling a wish, I channeled those coins and bestowed them\nto a former summoner. To be able to perform this San-filled\nchanneling, I was forced to attach a poison that would form on the\ncoins when in direct contact with sunlight. The summoner took his\ntreasure with him, but he did not return for this third wish. How my\nring returned to the vault, I could only speculate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Vault Hall, Nearer to the Entrance", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Blasts of the physical passed through me as I entered the room. But\nthey had no effect at all.\n\nVault Storage, Jewelry\nThat room had been designed to store jewelry in glass cases. All but\none piece of jewelry had been taken.\n\nI saw a necklace there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the necklace", "response": "Other than an inscribed name, \"Ivogard\", I saw nothing special about\nthe necklace.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You enter the ring", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Beware", "response": "[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction.*\n\nSuch was my first experience of joy. Until that point in time, every\nsummoner returning for another wish had increased San. Through the\nhappiness of Seegan, I felt more Purpose than I had ever known.\n\n\"Great Djinni,\" my summoner said with much passion. \"I can't thank\nyou enough--not only for making me beautiful, but for giving me the\nextra gift of being able to turn into a fox. I escaped these vaults\nbecause in fox form I was able to slip between the bars and dash\nquickly to the nearest village.\n\nIt was at that village I met my husband. I owe you that thanks as\nwell. I know I didn't need to explain, but I wanted to express my\nhappiness.\n\nDo you have any further instructions for my second wish? I will await\nyour word before wishing.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Seegan", "response": "I told her that, in addition to the previous rules, I could not undo\nany direct effects of previous wishes.\n\n(I wondered then whether I should have told her about my new Purpose.\nThanking her seemed \"correct\" somehow and yet not \"appropriate\"\nbecause it would likely have interfered with many undercurrents.)\n\n\"I've known my second wish since I knew I was pregnant. I wish my\nbaby a long, healthy, happy, prosperous life.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "My recent exponential increase in Purpose evoked in me an awareness.\nThe attractor winds that gave me control of the undercurrents were\nviewed as curses by my summoners. By the time the summoner called\nupon me anew, any Satisfaction that might have been gained initially\nwas eliminated by these curses.\n\nWhy had Seegan been Satisfied? I knew only one possibility. She was\nwithout San.\n[I pondered.]\n\nstated desire. Two of the requirements were a long and healthy life\nfor her baby. The undercurrents of her baby, lycanthropy and life\nspan, were incompatible. The were-fox undercurrent needed redirection\nat that point in time or be integrated fully soon after.\n[I pondered. And for the first time, I could grant at least some of\nthe wish without an associated \"curse\".]\n\nHer baby had strong undercurrents of happiness. I would not need to\ndo anything to grant that portion of the wish. However, prosperity\nwas another matter. I could have channeled the undercurrents to make\nthat happen, but not without cost. I realized that I greatly risked\nSatisfaction if I attached a curse. Perhaps there was treasure still\nremaining somewhere around the vaults that could assure prosperity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Blasts of the physical passed through me as I entered the room. They\ndid no damage, but I felt their associated sensations.\n\nVault Storage, Jewelry\nThat room had been designed to store jewelry in glass cases. All but\none piece of jewelry had been taken.\n\nI saw a necklace there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the necklace", "response": "linked it to an area far beneath that room. I would not be able to\nchannel the necklace nor any of its powers.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The underground continued indefinitely. The earth there was rich in\nminerals, particularly iron. I felt a vague sense of Purpose there.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I descended.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "Blasts of the physical passed through me as I entered the room. But\nthey had no effect at all.\n\nVault Storage, Jewelry\n\nI saw a necklace there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I was not impeded by the elements of the physical world. The farther\nI traveled from the location of my initial summons, the more Purpose I\nexpended.\n\nThen too I realized where I was and could [recall the area] whenever I\nneeded.\n\nVault Hall, Nearer to the Entrance\nThe passageway began there and continued east. There were doors on\nthe northern and southern sides, each with a set of uniquely engraved\nrunes. A thick, stone wall blocked physical travel west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Blasts of the physical passed through me as I entered the room. They\ndid no damage, but I felt their associated sensations.\n\nVault Storage, Jewelry\nThat room had been designed to store jewelry in glass cases. All but\none piece of jewelry had been taken.\n\nI saw a necklace there.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I descended.\n\nThe underground continued indefinitely. The earth there was rich in\nminerals, particularly iron. I felt a vague sense of Purpose there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "My recent exponential increase in Purpose evoked in me an awareness.\nThe attractor winds that gave me control of the undercurrents were\nviewed as curses by my summoners. By the time the summoner called\nupon me anew, any Satisfaction that might have been gained initially\nwas eliminated by these curses.\n\nWhy had Seegan been Satisfied? I knew only one possibility. She was\nwithout San.\n[I pondered.]\n\nstated desire. Two of the requirements were a long and healthy life\nfor her baby. The undercurrents of her baby, lycanthropy and life\nspan, were incompatible. The were-fox undercurrent needed redirection\nat that point in time or be integrated fully soon after.\n[I pondered. And for the first time, I could grant at least some of\nthe wish without an associated \"curse\".]\n\nHer baby had strong undercurrents of happiness. I would not need to\ndo anything to grant that portion of the wish. However, prosperity\nwas another matter. I could have channeled the undercurrents to make\nthat happen, but not without cost. I realized that I greatly risked\nSatisfaction if I attached a curse. Perhaps there was treasure still\nremaining somewhere around the vaults that could assure prosperity.\n\nThrough Will of Purpose, I continued channeling the undercurrents of\nthe emerald.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the emerald to the baby", "response": "I could only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter Seegan", "response": "(Seegan)\nThat was not something I would enter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the emerald to Seegan", "response": "(Seegan)\nSeegan did not seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the emerald", "response": "The emerald was as large as a human head. Its \"neck\" was tapered to a\nsharp point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Seegan", "response": "(Seegan)\nHer physical undercurrents stormed with attractiveness and combined\nwith those of another life. Her emotional winds raged with happiness\nand determination. Her mental flows darted and crackled with\ncreativity. Her movements resembled those of a fox.\n\nShe wore the ring that contained my essence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the seegan's physical", "response": "Her undercurrents continued their warmth but now flowed with the winds\nand not against them. An independent current flowed within her. She\nwas with child.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "I was not impeded by the elements of the physical world. The farther\nI traveled from the location of my initial summons, the more Purpose I\nexpended.\n\nThen too I realized where I was and could [recall the area] whenever I\nneeded.\n\nWinter left its presence there. Snow was piled up against the\nentrance. The wind was blowing through there and making a whistling\nsound. A trail lead through a range of hills to the west. The\nvaults, built into a hill, were to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snow", "response": "The snow was white and cold. It formed a blanket for the hills.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Outside, Just Above Trail Surface\nThe snow-covered hills appeared taller when viewed from the surface of\nthe trail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hills", "response": "Each hill was gently rounded. No hill protruded much higher than the\nothers. No vegetation extended above the blanket of snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Outside, Just Above Trail Surface", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "I rose above the surface.\n\nOutside, above Trail Level\nThe sky was humid and gray. The surrounding hills rolled beyond every\nhorizon. I felt no sense of Purpose there.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Outside, Just Above Trail Surface\nThe snow-covered hills appeared taller when viewed from the surface of\nthe trail.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "I was not impeded by the elements of the physical world. The farther\nI traveled from the location of my initial summons, the more Purpose I\nexpended.\n\nThen too I realized where I was and could [recall the area] whenever I\nneeded.\n\nThe underground continued indefinitely. The earth there was rich in\nminerals, particularly iron. I felt a vague sense of Purpose there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recall vault entry room", "response": "I had to rely on memories gained recently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recall Vault", "response": "I remembered being in that vaulted area many times before. Although\nit was certainly possible that things had changed since the previous\nsummoning.\n\nTrl Entr Vaul Pssg Pssg Hill\nHill Hill Hill Coin Pprs Hill\nHill Hill Hill Hill Hill Hill", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The remains of a former summoner rested here. An emerald had taken\nthe place of his head.\n\nThe summoner known as Seegan rested before me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Vault Hall, Nearer to the Entrance\nThe passageway began there and continued east. There were doors on\nthe northern and southern sides, each with a set of uniquely engraved\nrunes. A thick, stone wall blocked physical travel west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Vault Hall, Away from the Entrance\nThe passageway ended there, beginning from the east. There were doors\non the northern and southern sides, each with a set of uniquely\nengraved runes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the runes", "response": "The runes on the northern door depicted a plague. Those on the\nsouthern door were two rivers flowing into and out of each other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Outside, Just Above Trail Surface\nThe snow-covered hills appeared taller when viewed from the surface of\nthe trail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Outside, Just Above Trail Surface", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "the room. They did no damage, but I felt their associated sensations.\n\nVault Storage, Papers\nThe room had many papers stored there.\n\nI sensed strong undercurrents from one of the deeds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Vault Hall, Away from the Entrance", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "entered the room. But they had no effect at all.\n\nVault Storage, Artifacts\nThe room had many unique items stored there, but I was not concerned\nwith them.\n\nI sensed strong undercurrents from a brass lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "It was a brass lamp with the name \"Canloc\" inscribed on its base.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "entered the room. They did no damage, but I felt their associated\nsensations.\n\nVault Storage, Artifacts\nThe room had many unique items stored there, but I was not concerned\nwith them.\n\nI sensed strong undercurrents from a brass lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the lamp", "response": "been fulfilled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Blasts of the mental passed through me as I entered the room. They\ndid no damage, but I felt their associated sensations.\n\nVault Storage, Money\nAt one time, stacks of coins made of rare metals were stored there.\nOnce, in fulfilling a wish, I channeled those coins and bestowed them\nto a former summoner. To be able to perform this San-filled\nchanneling, I was forced to attach a poison that would form on the\ncoins when in direct contact with sunlight. The summoner took his\ntreasure with him, but he did not return for this third wish. How my\nring returned to the vault, I could only speculate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recall Canloc", "response": "I had to rely on memories gained recently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the necklace", "response": "Other than an inscribed name, \"Ivogard\", I saw nothing special about\nthe necklace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Blasts of the mental passed through me as I entered the room. They\ndid no damage, but I felt their associated sensations.\n\nVault Storage, Money\n\nThrough Will of Purpose, I continued channeling the undercurrents of\nthe emerald.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the emerald", "response": "The emerald was as large as a human head. Its \"neck\" was tapered to a\nsharp point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "the room. They did no damage, but I felt their associated sensations.\n\nVault Storage, Papers\nThe room had many papers stored there.\n\nI sensed strong undercurrents from one of the deeds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Blasts of the physical passed through me as I entered the room. They\ndid no damage, but I felt their associated sensations.\n\nVault Storage, Jewelry\n\nI saw a necklace there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the emerald", "response": "I had a link to the emerald. I did not need another.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the necklace", "response": "linked it to an area far beneath that room. I would not be able to\nchannel the necklace nor any of its powers.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I descended.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "I was not impeded by the elements of the physical world. The farther\nI traveled from the location of my initial summons, the more Purpose I\nexpended.\n\nThen too I realized where I was and could [recall the area] whenever I\nneeded.\n\nOutside, Just Above Trail Surface\nThe snow-covered hills appeared taller when viewed from the surface of\nthe trail.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I descended.\n\nI saw a simple, large, circular room. Within the room were three\npedestals, each one meter tall. Each appeared the same, each was\nspaced a uniform distance from the walls and from each other. Each\npedestal was the same in physical construction. They were made of\niron.\n\nA small circle had been inscribed around the exact center of the room.\n\nI saw the beginnings of many undercurrents there. That room would\nsoon be a focal point for a cataclysmic occurrence.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go down", "response": "I was not impeded by the elements of the physical world. The farther\nI traveled from the location of my initial summons, the more Purpose I\nexpended.\n\nThen too I realized where I was and could [recall the area] whenever I\nneeded.\n\nThe underground continued indefinitely. The earth there was rich in\nminerals, particularly iron. I felt a vague sense of Purpose there.\n\nI touched the necklace and felt powerful physical undercurrents that linked it to an area far beneath that room. I would not be able to channel the necklace nor any of its powers.\" The undercurrents of confusion made my commands meaningless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Deed", "response": "Through Will of Purpose, I channeled the undercurrents of the Deed of\nNobility.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recall entr", "response": "I had to rely on memories gained recently.\n\nThrough Will of Purpose, I continued channeling the undercurrents of\nthe Deed of Nobility.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "wish.\n\nThrough Will of Purpose, I continued channeling the undercurrents of\nthe Deed of Nobility.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Vault Hall, Nearer to the Entrance\n\nThrough Will of Purpose, I continued channeling the undercurrents of\nthe Deed of Nobility.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The remains of a former summoner rested here. An emerald had taken\nthe place of his head.\n\nThe summoner known as Seegan rested before me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop Deed", "response": "I dropped my undercurrent connection with the Deed of Nobility.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "My recent exponential increase in Purpose evoked in me an awareness.\nThe attractor winds that gave me control of the undercurrents were\nviewed as curses by my summoners. By the time the summoner called\nupon me anew, any Satisfaction that might have been gained initially\nwas eliminated by these curses.\n\nWhy had Seegan been Satisfied? I knew only one possibility. She was\nwithout San.\n[I pondered.]\n\nstated desire. Two of the requirements were a long and healthy life\nfor her baby. The undercurrents of her baby, lycanthropy and life\nspan, were incompatible. The were-fox undercurrent needed redirection\nat that point in time or be integrated fully soon after.\n[I pondered. And for the first time, I could grant at least some of\nthe wish without an associated \"curse\".]\n\nHer baby had strong undercurrents of happiness. I would not need to\ndo anything to grant that portion of the wish. However, prosperity\nwas another matter. I could have channeled the undercurrents to make\nthat happen, but not without cost. I realized that I greatly risked\nSatisfaction if I attached a curse. Perhaps there was treasure still\nremaining somewhere around the vaults that could assure prosperity.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "world [physically west] and a complex of vaults [physically east].\n\nThe room was a trap for physical beings. On one side of the room was\na raised portcullis. To the other were the vaults for storage. A\npatterned stone wall blocked their unauthorized access.\n\nThe remains of a former summoner rested here. An emerald had taken\nthe place of his head.\n\nThe summoner known as Seegan rested before me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "I was not impeded by the elements of the physical world. The farther\nI traveled from the location of my initial summons, the more Purpose I\nexpended.\n\nThen too I realized where I was and could [recall the area] whenever I\nneeded.\n\nVault Hall, Nearer to the Entrance\nThe passageway began there and continued east. There were doors on\nthe northern and southern sides, each with a set of uniquely engraved\nrunes. A thick, stone wall blocked physical travel west.\n\nVault Hall, Away from the Entrance\nThe passageway ended there, beginning from the east. There were doors\non the northern and southern sides, each with a set of uniquely\nengraved runes.\n\nOutside, Just Above Trail Surface\nThe snow-covered hills appeared taller when viewed from the surface of\nthe trail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "I gave her the deed that would restore the nobility of her husband.\n\nThe wish was granted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ring", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.\n[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction.*\n\nSeegan returned, although her physical currents had ceased. She was a\nspirit, but her Purpose was still her own.\n\nMy summoner spoke to me. \"Djinni, you made my life not only happy and\nfulfilling but also Purposeful. I could not have asked for more.\n\nI died due to my lycanthropy. The human body cannot handle such\nfrequent and disrupting changes to itself.\n\nBut I gained immeasurably from my wishes and wouldn't change a thing.\nMy last wish is for you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "entered the room. But they had no effect at all.\n\nVault Storage, Artifacts\nThe room had many unique items stored there, but I was not concerned\nwith them.\n\nI sensed strong undercurrents from a brass lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ring", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.\n[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction.*\n\nSeegan returned, although her physical currents had ceased. She was a\nspirit, but her Purpose was still her own.\n\nMy summoner spoke to me. \"Djinni, you made my life not only happy and\nfulfilling but also Purposeful. I could not have asked for more.\n\nI died due to my lycanthropy. The human body cannot handle such\nfrequent and disrupting changes to itself.\n\nBut I gained immeasurably from my wishes and wouldn't change a thing.\nMy last wish is for you.\"\n[I pondered.]\n\n\"It was foretold that it was my Destiny to come here, that I was to\nwish my heart's desire. I did not understand the implications of all\nthat had transpired then and what a pawn I was. Now, in my afterlife,\nI do.\n\nboy arrives. Destiny will be decided there. If the three choices are\nin place, the boy will select which servant to unleash unchecked in\nthe world and thereby its course. If not, Will ceases to exist.\n\nYou will require much Purpose in order to reach this room. Thus, my\nlast wish is for you to gain that Purpose. Good luck, my friend.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "At first I did not know where to begin. Eventually I realized I was\nable to manipulate my own undercurrents through those of Seegan.\nWithout her wish, I would have never been able to achieve that.\n\nThe Purpose undercurrents were strong, but her physical link to them\nwas weakening rapidly. I connected my own limited Purpose to the\nstream with her help. As I did so, her link completely dissipated.\n\nThe final wish was granted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "entered the room. Now closer in Purpose to physical beings, I began\nto feel some of the effects these traps caused.\n\nVault Storage, Artifacts\nThe room had many unique items stored there, but I was not concerned\nwith them.\n\nI sensed strong undercurrents from a brass lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lamp", "response": "Through Will of Purpose, I channeled the undercurrents of the lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Blasts of the physical passed through me as I entered the room. Now\ncloser in Purpose to physical beings, I began to feel some of the\neffects these traps caused.\n\nVault Storage, Jewelry\nThat room had been designed to store jewelry in glass cases. All but\none piece of jewelry had been taken.\n\nI saw a necklace there.\n\nThrough Will of Purpose, I continued channeling the undercurrents of\nthe lamp.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I descended.\n\nI saw a simple, large, circular room. Within the room were three\npedestals, each one meter tall. Each appeared the same, each was\nspaced a uniform distance from the walls and from each other. Each\npedestal was the same in physical construction. They were made of\niron.\n\nA small circle had been inscribed around the exact center of the room.\n\nI saw the beginnings of many undercurrents there. That room would\nsoon be a focal point for a cataclysmic occurrence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the lamp on the pedestal", "response": "origin. This expended nearly all of my remaining Purpose. Thus, I\nentered my container, losing all links to the physical undercurrents.\nI could not depart until I was summoned anew.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "[My section of these chronicles was complete.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\nEach summons meant the opportunity to destroy. Only the destruction\nthat caused human suffering gave me subsequent Purpose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "In the context of my permitted existences, I had never been able to\nsustain Purpose. I would be forced to return to my bottle, each time\ndesiring the trip to be my last. I knew with enough Purpose I could\nbe free of any summoners, free to cause limitless destruction.\n\nOasis, Military Headquarters\nThe largest tent in the oasis was there where the military leaders\nplotted. Maps were placed throughout.\n\nThe summoner known as Major Labiiq continued his studies.\n\nLabiiq looked out at me, expectantly. Summoners would wait for me to\ndestroy their enemies, only to learn I destroyed whatever caused\nmisery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the Major", "response": "Purpose had better uses than for talking needlessly.\n\nLabiiq looked out at me, expectantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "I was not that kind of servant.\n\nLabiiq looked out at me, expectantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recall the Oasis", "response": "I had to rely on memories gained recently.\n\nLabiiq looked out at me, expectantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the maps", "response": "Only one of the maps interested me--Labiiq's camp:\n\nSand Fort Silo Tent Tent Fort Sand\nSand Fort Tent Watr HQ Fort Sand\nSand Fort Site Cmls Supp Fort Sand\nSand Fort Fort Fort Fort Fort Sand\nSand Sand Sand Sand Sand Sand Sand\n\n|\n|\nRuined Vaults -- Pandora's Room(?)\n\naway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Oasis, Water Site\nThe spring of fresh water marked the center of the oasis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Oasis, West\nPrivate tents followed the rows of trees there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tents", "response": "The tents and trees were typical of human settlements in the desert.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Oasis, Grain Storage\nThere were several silos where the humans stored their grain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Oasis, Water Site", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Oasis, Camel Area\nThe camels had been trained and were equipped for battle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the camels", "response": "There were thirty camels there. At that time I thought that was a\nsmall number for an army fortress to have.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Oasis, NorthEast\nPrivate tents followed the rows of trees there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You destroy the tents", "response": "As I looked at each tent in turn, it became consumed in flame. The\ntrees soon caught fire. Then I called for a windstorm to blow it\naway. Somehow, however, I did not derive the Purpose that I felt I\nshould have from doing all that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "alternately angled, sharply pointed logs. The bulwark completely\nsurrounded the oasis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You destroy the bulwark", "response": "The logs had been treated to resist fire, but I merely Willed them to\nburn and they did so instantly. The fire spread quickly and consumed\nthe entire oasis barricade. Unexpectedly, I did not derive the\nPurpose that I felt I should have from doing that.\n\nShortly thereafter, the enemies of Labiiq sensed weakness in his camp.\nThey left their nearby desert posts and stormed his oasis. With the\nbulwark destroyed, they entered easily...\n\nOnly to find a Purpose-starved servant waiting for them.\n[I sated my Purpose.]\n\nAfterwards there was nothing of real import nearby to destroy. Soon I\nfound myself confronted with the detestable necessity of returning to\nmy container.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Oasis, NorthEast", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Oasis, Military Headquarters\n\nThe summoner known as Major Labiiq continued his studies.\n\nRather than the look of horror most summoners had by that point,\nLabiiq cast a calm and knowing presence upon me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Major", "response": "Labiiq appeared much the same as any human. However I did not sense\nEbo--the downfall of many of his kind--within him. He carried the\nbottle that was my prison.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Oasis, Excavation Site\nI sensed strong undercurrents from that place the humans were\nexcavating.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "As was my nature, I would have to destroy in order to create.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "What did I want to dig?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bottle", "response": "different style than the ones of that day. Inscribed upon it was the\nname \"Ivogard\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Oasis, Water Site\nThe spring of fresh water marked the center of the oasis.\n\nOasis, Excavation Site\nI sensed strong undercurrents from that place the humans were\nexcavating.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You destroy the Site", "response": "away. After that, I opened the sand below, creating a tunnel. Low\nrecent gains from my destructions made me surprised how Purposeful I\nbecame after that one. But Destiny had always made Itself easy to\nfollow.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "unnavigable for humans. The air supports I created held the loose\nsand walls in tact.\n\nI sensed something farther down.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "Ruined Vault, Jewelry Room\nThat room was perhaps once part of a larger vault complex, but then\njoined only the room to the east as still in tact. It had been\ndesigned to store jewelry in glass cases. All but one piece of\njewelry had been taken.\n\nI saw a necklace there.\n\nI needed Purpose immediately and sensed an intense source of it in the\nadjacent room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the necklace", "response": "When I touched the necklace, I felt powerful physical undercurrents\nthat linked it to an area far beneath that room. The necklace\ndesolidified and then descended through the earth.\n\nI needed Purpose immediately and sensed an intense source of it in the\nadjacent room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Ruined Vault, Artifact Room\nThe room had many unique items stored there, but I was not concerned\nwith them.\n\nI sensed strong undercurrents from a black box.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "The box appeared plain, but it evoked a ceratin curiosity humans would\nfind nearly impossible to resist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "Spirits of ill Will escaped the box even before I had finished opening\nit. They set upon me immediately, but soon realized they could not\naffect me. Thus they scattered, seeking to find those they might\ntorment.\n\nDestroying often gained Purpose, but never as much as from the simple\nact I had done at that moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Ruined Vault, Jewelry Room\n\nLabiiq appeared on a flying carpet. \"Thank you again for your\nindirect and unintentional services. You have provided the box that\nwill secure my promotion but that would have surely destroyed me had I\nopened it.\n\nThe wish-granting djinni may be below, but I have far too much San to\nuse it safely. Still, I was not speaking falsely about the prophecy.\nSurely your Destiny is in that Room.\"\n\nWith those words he grabbed the box from the adjacent room, nodded to\nme a final time and flew away.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "I saw a simple, large, circular room. Within the room were three\npedestals, each one meter tall. Each appeared the same, each was\nspaced a uniform distance from the walls and from each other. Each\npedestal was the same in physical construction. They were made of\niron. On one of the pedestals was a lamp. On another was a necklace.\n\nA small circle had been inscribed around the exact center of the room.\n\nI saw the beginnings of many undercurrents there. That room would\nsoon be a focal point for a cataclysmic occurrence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the necklace", "response": "I entered my container as I could do nothing else. I could not depart\nuntil I was summoned anew.\n[My section of these chronicles was complete.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n\"Mirror, mirror, in my hand\nWho's the fairest in the land?\"\n\nAs the servant of the mirror, I was compelled to answer my summoner\ntruthfully. I replied to her as I had many times to that same\nquestion.\n\n\"What I say to you is true\nNo girl alive is as fair as you\"\n[I waited while she basked in her vanity.]\n\nSela occupied the majority of the room. To her right was the foot of\na bed. To her left was part of a closet door. Just behind her was an\napple. My mirrored space was a reflection of that, but the real world\ncontinued beyond any such parameters.\n\nSela gazed into the mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "I appeared in form the same as my beholder, though with a certain\nethereal quality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Sela", "response": "As human consensus judged such things, she was the most beautiful\nwoman who lived at that time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the apple", "response": "I saw nothing special about the apple.\n\n\"As sure as the moon, I'll see my face soon,\" said Sela. With that,\nshe set my hand mirror down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "[I waited again for someone to look into my mirror.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\nAgain, Sela held the mirror and asked a question.\n\n\"Mirror, mirror, I must know more\nAre any more beautiful that came before?\"\n\none so many times. Yet, always, eventually, a summoner would ask a\nquestion that required a disappointing answer. And when her Will was\nlow I would absorb her essence into the mirror, gaining all the more\nknowledge.\n\nI replied,\n\"Alas, a fairer girl did once abide\nHer name was Seegan, I must confide\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "[I waited for her to understand.]\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction*\n\nExcept for Seegan and Labiiq, my previous summoners were consumed with\nAje. Sela then too was without it. A challenge awaited and her\nresolve hardened, her Will became high. At that moment, I possessed\nmore Purpose than I had since Labiiq.\n\nWhen Purpose was integrated sufficiently, I could move reflected\nobjects near me to the void of the non-reflected. And I would be able\nto implement the final segment of my plan if she agreed to my\nproposal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "[I would then relate that.]\n\n\"Ugly turned fair\nWinter came to a vault\nA wish granted from there\nTainted not with cursed fault\n\nA man clever with care\nTurned retreat to assault\n\nYou will soon learn the why--\nThe heart of the matter\n\nI lead them to three\nWho would give them their fame\n\nOnly freedom would please\nNo more life in a frame\n\nI must join them thereby\nOr that Purpose is shatter\n\nSet me there in that Nowhere, two-thirds likely my tomb\nOn another pedestal, a lamp among the gloom\nLong before The Choice is made, the beauty legend you assume", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "[I waited for her to understand.]\n\nSela did think on this proposition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move apple", "response": "I pushed its reflection to the nothingness that was the Void. And\nthat which was being reflected disappeared as well. Sela observed the\naction with dispassion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the nothingness", "response": "I was confined to my mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "I saw nothing special about the canopied bed.\n\n\"The risk-reward is fair I feel\nI say to you we have a deal,\" said Sela.\n\"How do I reach this 'Room' that you mention?\nAnd how shall I leave, by what convention?\"\n\nI replied,\n\"An earthly servant shall take you down\nFirst pack your bags and leave this town\nMeet it at the Heart of Clay\nIt owes the mirror a favor, say\n\nSet me on the final top\nMake sure I stay, I must not drop\n\nIts magic word, its name unique\nTo leave the way your kind has done\nJust step into the middle sun\n\nPick me up for objects weeded\"\n\nSela set me down and presumably readied herself for her journey.\n[I waited.]\n\nquickly. I heard a deeper voice in mid-sentence, \"... inquiring about\nthe death of Ayla Exeter.\" Another voice offered, \"It's a shame, it\nis. With each passing day, she was becoming the most beautiful woman\nin the land. I'd like to get my hands on the knave who gave her that\npoisoned apple.\"\n\nSela brought up my mirror steadily and turned her back. She offered\nsweetly, \"Brave men, a second please brace. Allow a poor woman a\nbrief check of her face.\" \"Awww, you don't need t' do that m'lady.\nYou're the most beautiful in the land,\" said the second guard.\n\nIn a clear view by then, I could see two men slowly, very slowly,\ndrawing conclusions from the conversation that had just transpired.\n\nThe road through the gates was narrow, the gates were made of steel.\nTo her right was a bearded guard. To her left was a bespectacled\nguard. My mirrored space was a reflection of that, but the real world\ncontinued beyond any such parameters.\n\nSela was detained for questioning, nonchalantly holding up her mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move bearded guard", "response": "I pushed his reflection to the nothingness that was the Void. And\nthat which was being reflected disappeared as well. Sela observed the\naction with dispassion.\n\nhappened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move guard", "response": "I pushed his reflection to the nothingness that was the Void. And\nthat which was being reflected disappeared as well. Sela observed the\naction with dispassion.\n\nSela calmly put my mirror back in her pack.\n\npedestal in the Room of Choices. I told her truthfully that the lamp\nshe sought was dangerous, so that she need merely speak the name\ninscribed upon it--'Canloc'--to invoke the djinni within.\n\nSan influenced her wish in its typical way.\n\nI awaited Destiny.\n[My section of these chronicles was complete.]\n\n\"A little boy entered the Room. He stood on his toes to reach the top\nof one of the pedestals.\n\nThe End.\"\n\n\"Which one did he choose, Nanny Exeter?!\"\n\n\"We live in a world where the only servants are human, my child.\nThink on that as you fall asleep. Good night, sweet one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passed.\n\n\"As sure as the moon, I'll see my face soon,\" said Sela. With that,\nshe set my hand mirror down.\n[I waited again for someone to look into my mirror.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\nAgain, Sela held the mirror and asked a question.\n\n\"Mirror, mirror, I must know more\nAre any more beautiful that came before?\"\n\none so many times. Yet, always, eventually, a summoner would ask a\nquestion that required a disappointing answer. And when her Will was\nlow I would absorb her essence into the mirror, gaining all the more\nknowledge.\n\nI replied,\n\"Alas, a fairer girl did once abide\nHer name was Seegan, I must confide\"\n[I waited for her to understand.]\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction*\n\nExcept for Seegan and Labiiq, my previous summoners were consumed with\nAje. Sela then too was without it. A challenge awaited and her\nresolve hardened, her Will became high. At that moment, I possessed\nmore Purpose than I had since Labiiq.\n\nWhen Purpose was integrated sufficiently, I could move reflected\nobjects near me to the void of the non-reflected. And I would be able\nto implement the final segment of my plan if she agreed to my\nproposal.\n[I would then relate that.]\n\n\"Ugly turned fair\nWinter came to a vault\nA wish granted from there\nTainted not with cursed fault\n\nA man clever with care\nTurned retreat to assault\n\nYou will soon learn the why--\nThe heart of the matter\n\nI lead them to three\nWho would give them their fame\n\nOnly freedom would please\nNo more life in a frame\n\nI must join them thereby\nOr that Purpose is shatter\n\nSet me there in that Nowhere, two-thirds likely my tomb\nOn another pedestal, a lamp among the gloom\nLong before The Choice is made, the beauty legend you assume\n[I waited for her to understand.]\n\nSela did think on this proposition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move apple", "response": "I pushed its reflection to the nothingness that was the Void. And\nthat which was being reflected disappeared as well. Sela observed the\naction with dispassion.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Sela occupied the majority of the room. To her right was the foot of\na bed. To her left was part of a closet door. My mirrored space was\na reflection of that, but the real world continued beyond any such\nparameters.\n\nSela stood near with mirror in hand.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Sela occupied the majority of the room. My mirrored space was a\nreflection of that, but the real world continued beyond any such\nparameters.\n\nSela stood near with mirror in hand.\n\n\"The risk-reward is fair I feel\nI say to you we have a deal,\" said Sela.\n\"How do I reach this 'Room' that you mention?\nAnd how shall I leave, by what convention?\"\n\nI replied,\n\"An earthly servant shall take you down\nFirst pack your bags and leave this town\nMeet it at the Heart of Clay\nIt owes the mirror a favor, say\n\nSet me on the final top\nMake sure I stay, I must not drop\n\nIts magic word, its name unique\nTo leave the way your kind has done\nJust step into the middle sun\n\nPick me up for objects weeded\"\n\nSela set me down and presumably readied herself for her journey.\n[I waited.]\n\nquickly. I heard a deeper voice in mid-sentence, \"... inquiring about\nthe death of Ayla Exeter.\" Another voice offered, \"It's a shame, it\nis. With each passing day, she was becoming the most beautiful woman\nin the land. I'd like to get my hands on the knave who gave her that\npoisoned apple.\"\n\nSela brought up my mirror steadily and turned her back. She offered\nsweetly, \"Brave men, a second please brace. Allow a poor woman a\nbrief check of her face.\" \"Awww, you don't need t' do that m'lady.\nYou're the most beautiful in the land,\" said the second guard.\n\nIn a clear view by then, I could see two men slowly, very slowly,\ndrawing conclusions from the conversation that had just transpired.\n\nThe road through the gates was narrow, the gates were made of steel.\nTo her right was a bearded guard. To her left was a bespectacled\nguard. My mirrored space was a reflection of that, but the real world\ncontinued beyond any such parameters.\n\nSela was detained for questioning, nonchalantly holding up her mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the gates", "response": "Moving the gates was beyond my Purpose at that time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move beard", "response": "I pushed his reflection to the nothingness that was the Void. And\nthat which was being reflected disappeared as well. Sela observed the\naction with dispassion.\n\nhappened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the glasses", "response": "I pushed his reflection to the nothingness that was the Void. And\nthat which was being reflected disappeared as well. Sela observed the\naction with dispassion.\n\nSela calmly put my mirror back in her pack.\n\npedestal in the Room of Choices. I told her truthfully that the lamp\nshe sought was dangerous, so that she need merely speak the name\ninscribed upon it--'Canloc'--to invoke the djinni within.\n\nSan influenced her wish in its typical way.\n\nI awaited Destiny.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "Purpose had better uses than for talking needlessly.\n\nSeegan took out a hand mirror, looked at it for a final assessment and\nthen put it away. She told me, \"I've thought about it, and I wish to\nbe beautiful.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Seegan", "response": "(Seegan)\nHer physical undercurrents stormed with attractiveness. Her emotional\nwinds raged with conflicting happiness and separation, dilemma and\ndetermination. Her mental flows darted and crackled with creativity.\n\nShe wore the ring that contained my essence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine emotional", "response": "The cold winds of separation flurried within her. Together with the\nphysical they linked, although distantly, to those of her father.\nDeep within these flurries was a pocket of fear, apparently kept in\ncheck by the torrent outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ring", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.\n[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction.*\n\nSuch was my first experience of joy. Until that point in time, every\nsummoner returning for another wish had increased San. Through the\nhappiness of Seegan, I felt more Purpose than I had ever known.\n\n\"Great Djinni,\" my summoner said with much passion. \"I can't thank\nyou enough--not only for making me beautiful, but for giving me the\nextra gift of the most pleasant sleep I have ever experienced. My...\nYOUR ring kept me warm somehow, as long as I was wearing it. I awoke\nmonths later when a traveling soldier arrived here and escorted me to\nthe nearest village.\n\nIt was at that village I met my husband. I owe you that thanks as\nwell. I know I didn't need to explain, but I wanted to express my\nhappiness.\n\nDo you have any further instructions for my second wish? I will await\nyour word before wishing.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Seegan", "response": "(Seegan)\nHer physical undercurrents stormed with attractiveness and combined\nwith those of another life. Her emotional winds raged with happiness\nand determination. Her mental flows darted and crackled with\ncreativity.\n\nShe wore the ring that contained my essence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at physical", "response": "Her undercurrents continued their warmth but now flowed with the winds\nand not against them. An independent current flowed within her. She\nwas with child.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine emotional", "response": "stormy mixture. She had recently joined Purpose with a husband,\nrestored a link to her father, and was with child. However, the\nundercurrents of her sisters battered hers with a jealous rage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine mental", "response": "Her mental undercurrents were difficult for me to interpret. Cold,\nthen hot, then cold again. These winds were conditioned, although not\nruled, by her emotions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Seegan", "response": "I told her that, in addition to the previous rules, I could not undo\nany direct effects of previous wishes.\n\n(I wondered then whether I should have told her about my new Purpose.\nThanking her seemed \"correct\" somehow and yet not \"appropriate\"\nbecause it would likely have interfered with many undercurrents.)\n\n\"I've known my second wish since I knew I was pregnant. I wish my\nbaby a long, healthy, happy, prosperous life.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "My recent exponential increase in Purpose evoked in me an awareness.\nThe attractor winds that gave me control of the undercurrents were\nviewed as curses by my summoners. By the time the summoner called\nupon me anew, any Satisfaction that might have been gained initially\nwas eliminated by these curses.\n\nWhy had Seegan been Satisfied? I knew only one possibility. She was\nwithout San.\n[I pondered.]\n\nstated desire. Two of the requirements were a long and healthy life\nfor her baby. Purpose did not require expenditure for these. The\nundercurrents of her baby flowed naturally and compatibly with her\ndesires. Rare it was that this occurred. And to that point, never\ndid I derive subsequent Satisfaction.\n[I pondered. And for the first time, I could grant at least some of\nthe wish without an associated \"curse\".]\n\nHer baby had strong undercurrents of happiness. I would not need to\ndo anything to grant that portion of the wish. However, prosperity\nwas another matter. I could have channeled the undercurrents to make\nthat happen, but not without cost. I realized that I greatly risked\nSatisfaction if I attached a curse. Perhaps there was treasure still\nremaining somewhere around the vaults that could assure prosperity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "wish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The remains of a former summoner rested here. An emerald had taken\nthe place of his head.\n\nThe summoner known as Seegan rested before me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "I gave her the deed that would restore the nobility of her husband.\n\nThe wish was granted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Vault Hall, Nearer to the Entrance", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "It was a brass lamp with the name \"Canloc\" inscribed on its base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the lamp", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.\n[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction.*\n\nSeegan returned, although her physical currents had ceased. She was a\nspirit, but her Purpose was still her own.\n\nMy summoner spoke to me. \"Djinni, you made my life not only happy and\nfulfilling but also Purposeful. I could not have asked for more.\n\nI died in childbirth with my third son. I fell into another deep\nsleep from which I could not return. Fortunately, my son is healthy\nand all else is well.\n\nBut I gained immeasurably from my wishes and wouldn't change a thing.\nMy last wish is for you.\"\n[I pondered.]\n\n\"It was foretold that it was my Destiny to come here, that I was to\nwish my heart's desire. I did not understand the implications of all\nthat had transpired then and what a pawn I was. Now, in my afterlife,\nI do.\n\nboy arrives. Destiny will be decided there. If the three choices are\nin place, the boy will select which servant to unleash unchecked in\nthe world and thereby its course. If not, Will ceases to exist.\n\nYou will require much Purpose in order to reach this room. Thus, my\nlast wish is for you to gain that Purpose. Good luck, my friend.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "To a summoner, I appeared to be a concentrated haze though with no\nreal form.\n\nSeegan took out a hand mirror, looked at it for a final assessment and\nthen put it away. She told me, \"I've thought about it, and I wish to\nbe beautiful.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "stated desire. Of those that would accomplish this, only one was I\nWillful enough to channel.\n\nwas, by itself, more Purposeful than I could manage. But if I\nsimultaneously channeled an attractor current, I could integrate them\nthrough my summoner and fulfill the wish. I chose the undercurrent of\n\n1) lycanthropy.\n2) a deep sleep.\n3) an inhumanly shrill voice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ring", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.\n[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction.*\n\nSuch was my first experience of joy. Until that point in time, every\nsummoner returning for another wish had increased San. Through the\nhappiness of Seegan, I felt more Purpose than I had ever known.\n\n\"Great Djinni,\" my summoner said with much passion. \"I can't thank\nyou enough--not only for making me beautiful, but for giving me the\nextra gift of a magical voice. I shattered the bars with my scream\nand followed the trail back to the village.\" (I, being not human, was\nunaffected by her voice.)\n\n\"It was at that village I met my husband. I owe you that thanks as\nwell. I know I didn't need to explain, but I wanted to express my\nhappiness.\n\nDo you have any further instructions for my second wish? I will await\nyour word before wishing.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at physical", "response": "Her undercurrents continued their warmth but now flowed with the winds\nand not against them. An independent current flowed within her. She\nwas with child.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "My recent exponential increase in Purpose evoked in me an awareness.\nThe attractor winds that gave me control of the undercurrents were\nviewed as curses by my summoners. By the time the summoner called\nupon me anew, any Satisfaction that might have been gained initially\nwas eliminated by these curses.\n\nWhy had Seegan been Satisfied? I knew only one possibility. She was\nwithout San.\n[I pondered.]\n\nstated desire. Two of the requirements were a long and healthy life\nfor her baby. Such was the first wish of my summoner that she was\n\"cursed\" with a destructive voice. The undercurrents of her baby, the\nvoice of its mother and its health, were incompatible.\n[I pondered. And for the first time, I could grant at least some of\nthe wish without an associated \"curse\".]\n\nHer baby had strong undercurrents of happiness. I would not need to\ndo anything to grant that portion of the wish. However, prosperity\nwas another matter. I could have channeled the undercurrents to make\nthat happen, but not without cost. I realized that I greatly risked\nSatisfaction if I attached a curse. Perhaps there was treasure still\nremaining somewhere around the vaults that could assure prosperity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the lamp", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.\n[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction.*\n\nSeegan returned, although her physical currents had ceased. She was a\nspirit, but her Purpose was still her own.\n\nMy summoner spoke to me. \"Djinni, you made my life not only happy and\nfulfilling but also Purposeful. I could not have asked for more.\n\nseveral thugs. My voice at that intensity paralyzed them. It cost me\nmy own life the process, but what mother wouldn't give her own for her\nchild?\n\nBut I gained immeasurably from my wishes and wouldn't change a thing.\nMy last wish is for you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "[I pondered.]\n\n\"It was foretold that it was my Destiny to come here, that I was to\nwish my heart's desire. I did not understand the implications of all\nthat had transpired then and what a pawn I was. Now, in my afterlife,\nI do.\n\nboy arrives. Destiny will be decided there. If the three choices are\nin place, the boy will select which servant to unleash unchecked in\nthe world and thereby its course. If not, Will ceases to exist.\n\nYou will require much Purpose in order to reach this room. Thus, my\nlast wish is for you to gain that Purpose. Good luck, my friend.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You grant wish", "response": "The remains of a former summoner rested here. An emerald had taken\nthe place of his head.\n\nThe spirit of Seegan floated before me.\n\nAt first I did not know where to begin. Eventually I realized I was\nable to manipulate my own undercurrents through those of Seegan.\nWithout her wish, I would have never been able to achieve that.\n\nThe Purpose undercurrents were strong, but her physical link to them\nwas weakening rapidly. I connected my own limited Purpose to the\nstream with her help. As I did so, her link completely dissipated.\n\nThe final wish was granted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "entered the room. Now closer in Purpose to physical beings, I began\nto feel some of the effects these traps caused.\n\nVault Storage, Artifacts", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Blasts of the physical passed through me as I entered the room. Now\ncloser in Purpose to physical beings, I began to feel some of the\neffects these traps caused.\n\nVault Storage, Jewelry\nThat room had been designed to store jewelry in glass cases. All but\none piece of jewelry had been taken.\n\nI saw a necklace there.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Oasis, Military Headquarters\nThe largest tent in the oasis was there where the military leaders\nplotted. Maps were placed throughout.\n\nThe summoner known as Major Labiiq continued his studies.\n\nLabiiq stopped to examine some maps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You destroy the Water", "response": "spring into the sky. Unexpectedly, I did not derive the Purpose that\nI felt I should have from doing that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You destroy the camels", "response": "Oasis, Camel Area\nThe camels had been trained and were equipped for battle.\n\ncamels directly but by forcing them from the oasis and into the\ndesert. The humans could see their only source of tranportation\nslowly leave them.\n\nThis did not translate to Purpose, however.\n\nShortly thereafter, the enemies of Labiiq sensed weakness in his camp.\nThey left their nearby desert posts and stormed his oasis. They\ndiscovered an opening in the bulwark and rushed in...\n\nOnly to find a Purpose-starved servant waiting for them.\n[I sated my Purpose.]\n\nAfterwards there was nothing of real import nearby to destroy. Soon I\nfound myself confronted with the detestable necessity of returning to\nmy container.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Oasis, Military Headquarters\n\nThe summoner known as Major Labiiq continued his studies.\n\nRather than the look of horror most summoners had by that point,\nLabiiq cast a calm and knowing presence upon me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the bottle", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.\n[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction*\n\nRarely was I summoned again by the same human. Never were any pleased\nwith what I accomplished. Until then. Perhaps his Satisfaction could\nbe used to gain enough Purpose for my permanent freedom.\n\nLabiiq looked out at me, calmly. \"I know you rarely honor requests,\nbut I think you'll feel differently when you hear mine. First a\nlittle background...\n\nResearch from my dig has revealed the location of others of your kind.\nAccording to my scrolls, three powerful servants are to wait in a\n\"Room of Choices\" for a little boy. It will be this boy who chooses\nthe fate of the people.\n\nNow I won't confirm or deny the validity of this prophecy, but the\ntime for this event is unspecified. Even if three of you are supposed\nto be there, there is no mention of when this is to occur. Other\nscrolls on this matter claim there are different types of \"servants.\"\nSome can grant wishes, some exist to wreak havoc, and so on.\n\nI believe this \"Room of Choices\" is far below my excavation site. I\nbelieve there is a chance a wish-granting servant is there. I don't\nbelieve my men will ever be able to dig below these shifting sands\nenough to reach there.\n\nBy explaining all of this, I'm giving you an opportunity to build your\npower and to be one of the choices. To build your power in the short\nterm, my studies indicate following your nature. To build your power\npermanently, you need to become the chosen one. If you're so chosen,\nmy studies indicate you will have your permanent freedom and even\ndominion in the world to come.\n\nBut first you must get me the wish granter's container.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "Oasis, Water Site\n\nOasis, Excavation Site\nI sensed strong undercurrents from that place the humans were\nexcavating.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You destroy the Site", "response": "away. After that, I opened the sand below, creating a tunnel. Low\nrecent gains from my destructions made me surprised how Purposeful I\nbecame after that one. But Destiny had always made Itself easy to\nfollow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You destroy the box", "response": "toward that end, I would have gained more Purpose if the box were in\ntact.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passed.\n\nSeegan took out a hand mirror, looked at it for a final assessment and\nthen put it away. She told me, \"I've thought about it, and I wish to\nbe beautiful.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter ring", "response": "I entered my container, losing all links to the physical\nundercurrents. I could not depart until I was summoned anew.\n[I waited for my next summons.]\n\n*An implosion of Purpose*\n\n*An implosion of Satisfaction.*\n\nSuch was my first experience of joy. Until that point in time, every\nsummoner returning for another wish had increased San. Through the\nhappiness of Seegan, I felt more Purpose than I had ever known.\n\n\"Great Djinni,\" my summoner said with much passion. \"I can't thank\nyou enough--not only for making me beautiful, but for giving me the\nextra gift of being able to turn into a fox. I escaped these vaults\nbecause in fox form I was able to slip between the bars and dash\nquickly to the nearest village.\n\nIt was at that village I met my husband. I owe you that thanks as\nwell. I know I didn't need to explain, but I wanted to express my\nhappiness.\n\nDo you have any further instructions for my second wish? I will await\nyour word before wishing.\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "anthropomorphised animals", "chest", "cover art", "graded success", "IF Competition 2013", "IFComp Game", "male protagonist", "money", "multiple endings", "nautical", "nautical directions", "open-ended", "optimisation puzzle", "parser", "pirate", "pirates", "rat", "replay puzzle", "second person", "ship", "ship wreck", "strong NPCs", "time limit", "treasure hunt", "turn limit", "variable final score", "Xyzzy Awards 2013", "XYZZY Best Individual NPC" ]

[ 4, 14, 18, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You can't help thinking this could have been avoided.\n\n\"I know what you're thinking, lad. And you're right, this is all your fault. But you can't exactly blame yourself, either.\"\n\nThe captain makes a pained clicking noise. \"You did your best, and it wasn't good enough. All we can do now is make the best of a bad situation.\"\n\nHe allows himself a moment of silence. Then he fixes you with a beady black eye:\n\n\"You think you maybe oughta get to work?\"\n\nCaptain Verdeterre's Plunder\nAn account of the wreck of the Feckless by Ryan Veeder\n\nThis is the foremost section of the hold, the location of the giant hole that the reef tore in the ship's hull. Water is gushing in at an alarming rate.\n\nThe rest of the hold (and the stairs to the decks above) is aft.\n\n\"All right,\" says Captain Verdeterre. \"Let's round up everything that's worth anything and put it in that bag.\" He indicates a nearby sack, which you pick up.\n\nA perturbed-looking gorilla skull hangs from a hook on the wall.\n\nIn one corner of the room is a pewter goblet.\n\nA thick book lies close by.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "{To maintain the urgency of your situation, it is asked that you refrain from handling more than one item at a time. We sincerely regret any inconveniences suffered as a result of this policy.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "You pick up the book.\n\n\"Oh, just drop that,\" says Verdeterre. \"We're looking for\ntreasure, not mildewy books.\"\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the book in the bag", "response": "You put the thick book into the commodious sack.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enable the nautical Vocabulary Notes", "response": "{Nautical Vocabulary Notes have been enabled. They may be disabled with the command \"DISABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\" at your convenience.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the skull", "response": "The captain smiles at the skull. \"Good old Charlie! What a spirited guy. If I had the chance, I think I'd shoot him again.\"\n\nYou stuff the gorilla skull into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cup", "response": "\"That one, for sure,\" says the captain. \"People will pay all kinds of money for fancy chalices like that.\"\n\nYou stuff the pewter goblet into the sack.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. {Nautical Vocabulary Note: \"Ballast\" is\nheavy material kept in the hold to help stabilize the ship.} Fore\nfrom here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nAn ornate vase stands nearby.\n\nThe water is up to your waist.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "You yank on the lid of the strongbox, but it's locked tight.\n\n\"Oh, shoot,\" says Verdeterre. \"I forget where I left the key. Knowing me, it's probably hidden extremely well. But I can't remember what was in there, either, so it's not a big loss.\"\n\nNow the water is up to your chest.\n\nThe vase is overturned by the waves and lost.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. {Nautical Vocabulary Note: \"Ballast\" is\nheavy material kept in the hold to help stabilize the ship.} Fore\nfrom here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nThe captain strokes his tail thoughtfully.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine captain", "response": "Captain Verdeterre cuts an imposing figure, with his plumed hat and his snappy jacket. There are so many reasons to look up to him: his tactical brilliance, his dauntlessness, his self-certainty—and his ability to inspire the certainty of others in himself.\n\nYou can't literally look up to him, as he's several feet shorter than you, but that's because he's a rat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "There's no title on the cover or the spine. It looks profoundly uninteresting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the book", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou open the book. Carved into the pages is a cavity containing a steel bracelet.\n\n\"Well, how about that,\" says Verdeterre.\n\nYou stretch out your neck as the waters close over your shoulders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bracelet", "response": "You stuff the steel bracelet into the sack.\n\nThe waters have reached your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the crate", "response": "\"Leave that be!\" Verdeterre barks. \"There's no room for any huge boxes on the lifeboat.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the crate", "response": "In the smelly crate is a musky grey lump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lump", "response": "It's grey and irregular, like a rock. It could almost be a rock, but it smells more strongly than any rock you've encountered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the lump", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the portrait", "response": "Verdeterre sighs. \"It'll be a shame to sell off an item of such gorgeousness and sentimentality,\" he says, \"but I suppose these are desperate times.\"\n\nYou stuff the captain's portrait into the sack.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the doll", "response": "\"You know,\" says Verdeterre, \"that doll gives me an idea. Better take it along.\"\n\nYou stuff the wooden doll into the sack.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the barrel", "response": "Trying to turn over the barrel in water this deep is an unsuccessful endeavor, and it rolls away on the rising waves.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sextant", "response": "\"I hate those things,\" says the captain. \"Nobody will build one that's small enough for us to use.\"\n\nYou stuff the sextant into the sack.\n\nThe water is up to your waist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flag box", "response": "You are unable to pick up the flag box, as it has been securely attached to the cabin floor. In retrospect, that wasn't a great idea.\n\nNow the water is up to your chest.\n\nThe flag box is covered by water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "{Nautical Vocabulary Note: A \"galley\" is a room on a ship where\nfood is prepared.}\n\nThis room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nThe waters have reached your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the violin", "response": "\"Sure was nice of Blaise to leave that behind for us,\" Verdeterre sniggers.\n\nYou stuff the violin into the sack.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Ah, open air. The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead. {Nautical\nVocabulary Note: A \"bulkhead\" is a wall.}\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. You need to get to higher ground.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "{Nautical Vocabulary Note: A \"galley\" is a room on a ship where\nfood is prepared.}\n\nThis room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nYou can't hold your breath any longer, and now water rushes into your mouth and nostrils. You're able to struggle for a little while, but it's no use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "Ah, open air. The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead. {Nautical\nVocabulary Note: A \"bulkhead\" is a wall.}\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe water glides over the decks and soon it is up to your ankles.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the locket", "response": "\"Ooh, jewelry! Good eye, Tibert!\" says the captain.\n\nYou stuff the silver locket into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "Here is where the captain sleeps, where he eats, where he does his deep thinking. Most of this happens in his bed. Hung on one wall is a shelf, set aside for the captain's favorite objects.\n\nA pin is sticking out of the forward bulkhead, holding up the handkerchief outside.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.\n\nOn the shelf are a gold medallion and an iron key.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.\n\nThe rising waters swallow up the pin.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the medallion", "response": "You give the medallion a quick once-over and ask Verdeterre, \"What did you do to earn this?\"\n\n\"I stole it.\"\n\nYou stuff the gold medallion into the sack.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "Verdeterre's eyes light up as you lift the key. \"I know what that is! That's the key to the strongbox in the hold! I knew it was somewhere.\"\n\nNow the water reaches your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan iron key\na false book (open but empty)\na commodious sack\na gold medallion\na silver locket\na violin\na sextant\na wooden doll\na captain's portrait\na steel bracelet\na pewter goblet\na gorilla skull\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pillow", "response": "You pick up the pillow.\n\n\"Oh, no. I'm gonna miss that little guy,\" says Verdeterre. \"I've never been able to get to sleep without it. But it needs to must, when devils drive!\"\n\nYou stuff the silk pillow into the sack.\n\nThe rising waves climb up to your waist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nThe water is up to your chest.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck. {Nautical Vocabulary Note: A \"quarterdeck\" is a raised deck at the stern of a ship.}\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nSoon the main deck will be too deep underwater for you to walk around on it.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the statuette", "response": "You stuff the bronze statuette into the sack.\n\nThe main deck has to be under at least five feet of water now.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now. It tastes salty.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "{Nautical Vocabulary Note: The \"top\" is a platform at the top of\none of the lower masts of a ship, providing support to the topmast, which is a mast that's attached to the top of a lower mast. Atop the topmast is the topgallant mast.}\n\nWhat a dizzying height! The shrouds reach higher, of course, but up here is high enough.\n\nA piece of brass is caught between the boards.\n\nA seagull is perched further out on the rigging.\n\nThe rising water has almost reached the level of the upper decks.\n\nThe captain scampers up the lines ahead of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. {Nautical Vocabulary Note: A \"capstan\" is a cylindrical mechanism used to haul heavy objects and increase tension in cables by winding them around its barrel.} The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up\na short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. You need to get to higher ground.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the boat", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe water closes over your head. What would your like for the final action in your life to be?\n\n\"Fine, go down with the ship,\" says the Captain. \"But I'm taking that sack with me.\"\n\nHe wrests the sack from your grasp, climbs in the lifeboat, and casts off without you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the boat", "response": "Are you sure you want to abandon ship? [y/n]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n I feel like this is probably the best you could have done. So relax! Pull up a chair!\"\n\nThere is only one chair in the apartment, however, and Captain Verdeterre is sitting in it, so you nod politely and continue to stand as he curls up and drifts off to sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nAn ornate vase stands nearby.\n\nA crystal ball is rolling around on the floor.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "Ah, open air. The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "Here is where the captain sleeps, where he eats, where he does his deep thinking. Most of this happens in his bed. Hung on one wall is a shelf, set aside for the captain's favorite objects.\n\nA pin is sticking out of the forward bulkhead, holding up the handkerchief outside.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.\n\nOn the shelf are a gold medallion and an iron key.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key and the medallion", "response": "{To maintain the urgency of your situation, it is asked that you refrain from handling more than one item at a time. We sincerely regret any inconveniences suffered as a result of this policy.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "Verdeterre's eyes light up as you lift the key. \"I know what that is! That's the key to the strongbox in the hold! I knew it was somewhere.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downward", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nThe waters have reached your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You can't move in that direction from here. {The available\ndirections are displayed in the status bar above.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the strongbox with the key", "response": "You unlock the iron strongbox.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the strongbox", "response": "You open the strongbox, revealing a green glass bottle. The captain's eyes brighten. \"Now I remember! Grab hold of that bottle before it sinks!\"\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bottle", "response": "You stuff the green glass bottle into the sack.\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. You need to get to higher ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bottle", "response": "The bottle is filled with a dark liquid, and the label says \"Prévenge\", although you don't know that (you can't read).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nOn top of one cabinet is a piece of hardtack.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hardtack", "response": "Taken.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Moving toward the right side of the deck only causes the ship to lurch distressingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.\n\nDespite the height of the water, you can still just barely reach the iron strongbox.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ascend", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan iron key\na commodious sack\na green glass bottle\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the barrel", "response": "When you peek under the barrel you discover an ancient-looking oil lamp.\n\n\"That's gotta be worth something!\" according to the captain, so you toss it in the bag.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nOn top of one cabinet is a piece of hardtack.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hardtack", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe water is up to your waist.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get ambergris", "response": "Captain Verdeterre wrinkles his nose. \"What on earth is that thing? I don't like the looks of it.\"\n\nYou hold onto it anyway.\n\nNow the water is up to your chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the handkerchief", "response": "You yank on the handkerchief, but it stays lodged in the wall; it's tied on from the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "Here is where the captain sleeps, where he eats, where he does his deep thinking. Most of this happens in his bed. Hung on one wall is a shelf, set aside for the captain's favorite objects.\n\nA pin is sticking out of the forward bulkhead, holding up the handkerchief outside.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.\n\nOn the shelf is a gold medallion.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pin", "response": "You pull the pin out from the handkerchief, and it falls between the boards. Now you should be able to retrieve the hanky from the other side of the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "The captain enjoys the privilege of sleeping in a human-sized bed, rather than a rat-sized bed, or a hammock. It's a nice-looking bed, too.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the bed", "response": "You stoop down to check under the captain's bed, and turn up a curvy shell, bigger than your hand.\n\n\"That's a nautilus,\" Verdeterre explains. \"You oughta see one when the squishy part is still inside. It's a sight that'd keep you up at night, let me tell you. Anyway, let's try and sell it.\"\n\nYou stuff the nautilus shell into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the handkerchief", "response": "The captain smiles as you lift up the handkerchief. \"Well, boy, I did make a promise, and I keep my promises. The hanky's yours.\"\n\nYou rub the silk between your fingers, and remark by way of expressing your gratitude that it's a very fine prize.\n\nThe captain nods. \"You're right about that. Actually, it's probably too fine. Yes, you'd better put it in with the other loot so we can sell it later. Good idea.\"\n\nYou stuff the silk handkerchief into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe water glides over the decks and soon it is up to your ankles.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the mirror", "response": "You pick up the mirror, and Verdeterre motions for you to point it at him. He checks to make sure he's wearing his hat at an appropriately jaunty angle. He nods in approval.\n\nYou stuff the hand mirror into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dagger", "response": "You pull on the handle of the dagger, but it remains stuck in the mast.\n\n\"Hey, that was Saad's, right?\" Verdeterre asks. \"What happened to him?\"\n\n\"I think you told him you were going to kill him, so he ran away,\" you say.\n\nHe frowns. \"Man, I think you're right. Wow. I shoulda been nicer.\"\n\nYour knees are underwater now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "What a dizzying height! The shrouds reach higher, of course, but up here is high enough.\n\nA piece of brass is caught between the boards.\n\nA seagull is perched further out on the rigging.\n\nThere might be about a foot of water over the main deck now.\n\nThe captain scampers up the lines ahead of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the brass", "response": "It's a miniature crown, maybe the size of a tablespoon.\n\n\"That!\" Verdeterre shrieks. \"That is important. Put that in the sack. Do not lose that.\"\n\nYou stuff the tiny brass crown into the sack.\n\nThe deck below is still sinking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the hardtack to the seagull", "response": "The seagull doesn't seem interested.\n\nBy now the main deck is under about three feet of water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the seagull", "response": "The seagull seems to look straight back at you, a challenge in its eye. It has a gold watch clutched in its talons. Or do they count as talons if they're webbed?\n\n\"Seagulls! Vermin of the sea! I hate them,\" the captain grumbles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show hardtack to the seagull", "response": "The seagull is unimpressed.\n\nBy now the main deck is under about three feet of water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the seagull", "response": "Your shot goes wide, but the report is enough to make the seagull drop its prize and fly away. The watch falls into the water.\n\nBy now the main deck is under about three feet of water.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nThe water is up to your chest.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nThe waves close over your shoulders.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The crew's quarters were never intended to be welcoming or well-appointed. The walls are lined with hammocks. The exit is aft.\n\nThe water reaches your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nA fid is lying on the deck.\n\nThe main deck has to be under at least five feet of water now.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get fid", "response": "\"Do we need this?\" you ask your captain, indicating the fid.\n\nHe says, \"I kinda doubt it, but you might as well.\"\n\nYou pick up the fid.\n\nYour chance to return to the main deck is almost gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the figurehead", "response": "You have to lean uncomfortably over the gunwale to get a good look, but there she is: a wooden human woman in need of a coat of paint.\n\n\"Hey, what's that she's wearing?\" asks Verdeterre.\n\nIn fact, the figurehead is wearing very little, but Verdeterre indicates what seems to be a non-wooden necklace around her neck. \"Go get that!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the necklace", "response": "The only way to reach that necklace would be to climb out onto the bowsprit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb onto the bowsprit", "response": "You climb out to hang precariously from the bowsprit.\n\nFrom this position you can look right in the figurehead's face. She seems entirely too calm, given the circumstances.\n\nAround her neck is a string of pearls.\n\nThe waters continue to bury the main deck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the necklace", "response": "You pull one hand free from the bowsprit to snatch up the necklace, and nearly lose your grip.\n\n\"Careful down there!\" Verdeterre cries. \"I don't know what I'd do with myself if you lost any of our stuff. You should probably toss the necklace up to me so you don't drop it. Or I guess just put it in the bag.\"\n\nYou stuff the pearl necklace into the sack.\n\nThe water is too high now for you to safely hang from the bowsprit without drowning.\n\nVery, very carefully, you climb back from the bowsprit to the relative safety of the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe rising water has almost reached the level of the upper decks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "It's too late to go back down now. The deck below is almost completely flooded.\n\nThe main deck is utterly lost now, and the waters begin inching up over the fo'c'sle and quarterdeck...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water glides over the fo'c'sle deck and soon it is up to your ankles. You are going to die here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.\n\n\"What a disappointment,\" Captain Verdeterre says, as he swims away.\n\nYou wish you could swim.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nNow the water reaches your hips.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "It's too late to go back down now. The deck below is completely flooded.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe rising waves climb up to your waist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water is up to your chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe waves close over your shoulders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water reaches your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. Unfortunately, there isn't really anywhere to go from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink bottle", "response": "There's nothing suitable to drink here.\n\nThe water closes over your head. What would your like for the final action in your life to be?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na fid\na silk handkerchief\na musky grey lump\na piece of hardtack\nan iron key\na commodious sack\na pearl necklace\na tiny brass crown\na hand mirror\na nautilus shell\nan oil lamp\na green glass bottle\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bottle", "response": "That's not something you can open.\n\nYou can't hold your breath any longer, and now water rushes into your mouth and nostrils. You're able to struggle for a little while, but it's no use.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "Are you sure you want to abandon ship? [y/n]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n I feel like this is probably the best you could have done. So relax! Pull up a chair!\"\n\nThere is only one chair in the apartment, however, and Captain Verdeterre is sitting in it, so you nod politely and continue to stand as he curls up and drifts off to sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "You would have thought the hull was too strong to be busted up so much by a reef, but on the other hand you did hit that reef pretty hard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gun", "response": "This, your trusty pistol, may still technically belong to the captain. Sometimes he says he gave it to you, and sometimes he says he's loaning it to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sack in the hole", "response": "You can't let go of the sack. You're under orders to fill it with treasure.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nAn ornate vase stands nearby.\n\nA crystal ball is rolling around on the floor.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot strongbox", "response": "You shoot at the strongbox. Your bullet, the only bullet you have, bounces off harmlessly and disappears.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flag box", "response": "The flag box contains, or used to contain, all of the flags a pirate ship could ever need. Over the course of your many voyages, a lot of the flags were ripped up angrily, or destroyed in the course of hilarious pranks.\n\nRight now it's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the flag box", "response": "You open the flag box, revealing a red and yellow flag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flag", "response": "You pull the flag out of the box and unfold it: the design is a yellow cross on a red field. \"Whose flag is this?\" you ask your captain.\n\n\"I dunno. I think Denmark? Anyway, it's useless. Toss it.\"\n\nYou nod, and throw the flag somewhere where it won't get in the way.\n\nThe flag that was underneath is striped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get striped", "response": "You unfold the striped flag to see the entire design. It's a blue stripe, a white stripe, a red stripe, a white stripe, and a blue stripe.\n\n\"That's the Russian flag,\" Verdeterre explains. \"You're holding it upside down.\"\n\nIt's just a Russian flag anyway, so you toss it. The next flag in the box has a red X on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get X", "response": "This flag has a red X on a white field. \"That's the Swiss flag,\" Verdeterre says, but then he stops himself: \"No, wait. The Swiss flag is a white cross on red. So this one, I guess, is for... the Swiss navy.\"\n\nThe captain seems put off a bit at himself, so you throw away the offending flag.\n\nAt the bottom of the flag box is an old tapestry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the tapestry", "response": "You pull out the tapestry and unfold it. It depicts a rat in clerical garb lying on his back, his stomach pierced by the spear of a human paladin. The rat's fingers are either raised in pious benediction or twisted in pain.\n\n\"Hey, that's the Martyrdom of Saint Incertus!\" says Verdeterre. \"He's the patron saint of the pursued, I think. Too bad he's not the patron saint of shipwrecks. Better take it along.\"\n\nYou fold it up carefully. \"Why did they martyr him?\" you ask.\n\n\"Well, between the Human Catholic Church and the Rat Catholic Church there are some differences in the rules—such as, according to the human church, you're not allowed to declare yourself a saint. It's considered presumptuous. But we did get a tapestry out of it.\"\n\nYou stuff the tapestry of Saint Incertus into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nDespite the height of the water, you can still just barely reach the iron strongbox.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You get the vase", "response": "The captain squeaks approvingly. \"That's a good one. That'll keep us fed for a week.\"\n\nYou stuff the ornate vase into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "What a dizzying height! The shrouds reach higher, of course, but up here is high enough.\n\nA piece of brass is caught between the boards.\n\nA seagull is perched further out on the rigging.\n\nThe captain scampers up the lines ahead of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the seagull", "response": "Your shot goes wide, but the report is enough to make the seagull drop its prize and fly away. The watch falls to the deck below.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nA gold watch is lying on the deck, apparently undamaged after its descent.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the watch", "response": "You pick up the watch. \"That scumbag bird tried to steal our watch,\" Verdeterre says, \"but we sure showed him, right?\"\n\nYou stuff the gold watch into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nA fid is lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops fid", "response": "\"Do we need this?\" you ask your captain, indicating the fid.\n\nHe says, \"I kinda doubt it, but you might as well.\"\n\nYou pick up the fid.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nThe captain surveys the situation with a sober eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the figurehead", "response": "You have to lean uncomfortably over the gunwale to get a good look, but there she is: a wooden human woman in need of a coat of paint.\n\n\"Hey, what's that she's wearing?\" asks Verdeterre.\n\nIn fact, the figurehead is wearing very little, but Verdeterre indicates what seems to be a non-wooden necklace around her neck. \"Go get that!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb out onto the bowsprit", "response": "You climb out to hang precariously from the bowsprit.\n\nFrom this position you can look right in the figurehead's face. She seems entirely too calm, given the circumstances.\n\nAround her neck is a string of pearls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the necklace", "response": "You pull one hand free from the bowsprit to snatch up the necklace, and nearly lose your grip.\n\n\"Careful down there!\" Verdeterre cries. \"I don't know what I'd do with myself if you lost any of our stuff. You should probably toss the necklace up to me so you don't drop it. Or I guess just put it in the bag.\"\n\nYou stuff the pearl necklace into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Very, very carefully, you climb back from the bowsprit to the relative safety of the fo'c'sle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dagger", "response": "You pull on the handle of the dagger, but it remains stuck in the mast.\n\n\"Hey, that was Saad's, right?\" Verdeterre asks. \"What happened to him?\"\n\n\"I think you told him you were going to kill him, so he ran away,\" you say.\n\nHe frowns. \"Man, I think you're right. Wow. I shoulda been nicer.\"\n\nThe water glides over the decks and soon it is up to your ankles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine fid", "response": "It's a long wooden cone with a mean-looking point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the dagger", "response": "That's fine where it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "The captain sighs as you yank on the dagger. \"It's not coming out,\" he says.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "The dagger stays stuck. Verdeterre rolls his eyes.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.\n\nThe mirror disappears beneath the waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "As much as you pull, the knife won't budge. \"Leave it alone, will you?\" cries Verdeterre.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "You pull again. You're almost there. You can feel the dagger's resolve fading.\n\nNow the water reaches your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "The dagger stays stuck. Verdeterre rolls his eyes.\n\nThe rising waves climb up to your waist.\n\n{A friendly reminder: Substantial resources have been invested in\nthe research and implementation of this game's Nautical Vocabulary Notes. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you very much.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "The captain sighs as you yank on the dagger. \"It's not coming out,\" he says.\n\nThe water is up to your chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nThe waves close over your shoulders.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the davits", "response": "The davits lean out over the side of the vessel, and a lifeboat hangs underneath them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "Are you sure you want to abandon ship? [y/n]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n I feel like this is probably the best you could have done. So relax! Pull up a chair!\"\n\nThere is only one chair in the apartment, however, and Captain Verdeterre is sitting in it, so you nod politely and continue to stand as he curls up and drifts off to sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nAn ornate vase stands nearby.\n\nA crystal ball is rolling around on the floor.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the statuette", "response": "You stuff the bronze statuette into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wheel", "response": "This is where you were standing when it happened. The captain said he needed some shuteye. You told him you could handle steering by yourself for a while. He trusted you.\n\nYou've got to make it up to him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the statuette", "response": "The statuette depicts a man with the head of a bird, wearing an extremely elaborate headdress. Or maybe those are just his own feathers.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "What a dizzying height! The shrouds reach higher, of course, but up here is high enough.\n\nA piece of brass is caught between the boards.\n\nA seagull is perched further out on the rigging.\n\nThe captain scampers up the lines ahead of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the brass", "response": "It's a miniature crown, maybe the size of a tablespoon.\n\n\"That!\" Verdeterre shrieks. \"That is important. Put that in the sack. Do not lose that.\"\n\nYou stuff the tiny brass crown into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the crown on the statuette", "response": "First you take the tiny brass crown.\n\nTaken.\n\nIf you leave things lying around, you're liable to forget about them entirely.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You examine doll", "response": "It's a little wooden girl, with rosy cheeks and spindly limbs. She doesn't have a scrap of clothing on her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in barrel", "response": "When you peek under the barrel you discover an ancient-looking oil lamp.\n\n\"That's gotta be worth something!\" according to the captain, so you toss it in the bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the oil lamp", "response": "This grubby antique probably hasn't been used in years. There's no oil inside, that's for sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn dagger", "response": "{It is politely requested that you respect the orientation of the curved dagger.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dagger", "response": "The handle is finely crafted, and the blade comes to a point in a dramatic curve.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na commodious sack\nan oil lamp\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The crew's quarters were never intended to be welcoming or well-appointed. The walls are lined with hammocks. The exit is aft.\n\nAn old zither lies in the corner.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the zither", "response": "You point at the zither, and the captain says \"Yeah, sure. It's out of tune, though.\"\n\nYou lift the instrument from the floor. \"How do you know?\"\n\n\"I don't, but it stands to reason, right?\"\n\nYou stuff the zither into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play zither", "response": "You plunk out a couple notes. It doesn't sound like music to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na commodious sack\na zither\nan oil lamp\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nA fid is lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get fid", "response": "\"Do we need this?\" you ask your captain, indicating the fid.\n\nHe says, \"I kinda doubt it, but you might as well.\"\n\nYou pick up the fid.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downward", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the davits", "response": "The davits lean out over the side of the vessel, and a lifeboat hangs underneath them.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The crew's quarters were never intended to be welcoming or well-appointed. The walls are lined with hammocks. The exit is aft.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hammocks", "response": "It's hard to be comfortable in one of these, but there's an upside: lately you haven't had to share this room with anybody at all!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.\n\nThe little wooden doll floats away.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nOn top of one cabinet is a piece of hardtack.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the violin", "response": "\"Sure was nice of Blaise to leave that behind for us,\" Verdeterre sniggers.\n\nYou stuff the violin into the sack.\n\nThe water is up to your waist.\n\nThe currents carry the hardtack out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nNow the water is up to your chest.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na commodious sack\na violin\na zither\nan oil lamp\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The crew's quarters were never intended to be welcoming or well-appointed. The walls are lined with hammocks. The exit is aft.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nA fid is lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get fid", "response": "\"Do we need this?\" you ask your captain, indicating the fid.\n\nHe says, \"I kinda doubt it, but you might as well.\"\n\nYou pick up the fid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe water glides over the decks and soon it is up to your ankles.\n\n{A friendly reminder: Substantial resources have been invested in\nthe research and implementation of this game's Nautical Vocabulary Notes. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you very much.}\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine fid", "response": "It's a long wooden cone with a mean-looking point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nNow the water reaches your hips.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nThe rising waves climb up to your waist.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the boat", "response": "Are you sure you want to abandon ship? [y/n]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is the foremost section of the hold, the location of the giant hole that the reef tore in the ship's hull. Water is gushing in at an alarming rate.\n\nThe rest of the hold (and the stairs to the decks above) is aft.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.\n\nA perturbed-looking gorilla skull hangs from a hook on the wall.\n\nIn one corner of the room is a pewter goblet.\n\nA thick book lies close by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the skull", "response": "The captain smiles at the skull. \"Good old Charlie! What a spirited guy. If I had the chance, I think I'd shoot him again.\"\n\nYou stuff the gorilla skull into the sack.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the book", "response": "You pick up the book.\n\n\"Oh, just drop that,\" says Verdeterre. \"We're looking for\ntreasure, not mildewy books.\"\n\nYou open the book. Carved into the pages is a cavity containing a steel bracelet.\n\n\"Well, how about that,\" says Verdeterre.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bracelet", "response": "You stuff the steel bracelet into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nAn ornate vase stands nearby.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ball", "response": "\"Good eye. Superstitious suckers eat that kind of thing up.\" Verdeterre chuckles.\n\nYou stuff the crystal ball into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Ah, open air. The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "Here is where the captain sleeps, where he eats, where he does his deep thinking. Most of this happens in his bed. Hung on one wall is a shelf, set aside for the captain's favorite objects.\n\nA pin is sticking out of the forward bulkhead, holding up the handkerchief outside.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.\n\nOn the shelf are a gold medallion and an iron key.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the medallion", "response": "You give the medallion a quick once-over and ask Verdeterre, \"What did you do to earn this?\"\n\n\"I stole it.\"\n\nYou stuff the gold medallion into the sack.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nDespite the height of the water, you can still just barely reach the iron strongbox.\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. You need to get to higher ground.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock strongbox", "response": "(with the iron key)\nYou unlock the iron strongbox.\n\nThe water closes over your head. You might have time to do one last thing before you drown...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the strongbox", "response": "You open the strongbox, revealing a green glass bottle. The captain's eyes brighten. \"Now I remember! Grab hold of that bottle before it sinks!\"\n\nYou can't hold your breath any longer, and now water rushes into your mouth and nostrils. You're able to struggle for a little while, but it's no use.\n\nThe Captain, as it turns out, is a fairly capable swimmer, and he paddles away without you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You get the ball", "response": "\"Good eye. Superstitious suckers eat that kind of thing up.\" Verdeterre chuckles.\n\nYou stuff the crystal ball into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.\n\nA lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nDespite the height of the water, you can still just barely reach the iron strongbox.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock strongbox", "response": "(with the iron key)\nYou unlock the iron strongbox.\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. You need to get to higher ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the strongbox, revealing a green glass bottle. The captain's eyes brighten. \"Now I remember! Grab hold of that bottle before it sinks!\"\n\nThe water closes over your head. You might have time to do one last thing before you drown...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bottle", "response": "You stuff the green glass bottle into the sack.\n\nYou can't hold your breath any longer, and now water rushes into your mouth and nostrils. You're able to struggle for a little while, but it's no use.\n\nThe Captain, as it turns out, is a fairly capable swimmer, and he paddles away without you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nDespite the height of the water, you can still just barely reach the iron strongbox.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "You yank on the lid of the strongbox, but it's locked tight.\n\n\"Oh, shoot,\" says Verdeterre. \"I forget where I left the key. Knowing me, it's probably hidden extremely well. But I can't remember what was in there, either, so it's not a big loss.\"\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. You need to get to higher ground.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "It's too late to go back down now. The deck below is almost completely flooded.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine painting", "response": "The canvas is a foot and a half wide, and the image of Verdeterre is somewhat larger than the captain himself. Rendered more or less expertly in oils, the portrait successfully conveys the courage and ingenuity that Verdeterre has difficulty projecting in person.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at shelf", "response": "The captain had this shelf set up to display the most beloved of his possessions that he was able to keep track of.\n\nOn the shelf are a gold medallion and an iron key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the bed", "response": "On the captain's bed is a silk pillow.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Here is where the captain sleeps, where he eats, where he does his deep thinking. Most of this happens in his bed. Hung on one wall is a shelf, set aside for the captain's favorite objects.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.\n\nA pin is sticking out of the forward bulkhead, holding up the handkerchief outside.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.\n\nOn the shelf are a gold medallion and an iron key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the locket", "response": "Verdeterre looks on with interest as you struggle to undo the locket's tiny clasp, and when you finally get it open he asks, \"Who's the picture of?\"\n\nThe tiny painting depicts a fairly respectable-looking rat. Engraved inside the cover is the name \"Etienne\". You turn the interior toward Verdeterre for inspection.\n\n\"Oh, hey, I know her. Let me see that,\" he says, prying the locket from your hands. He swings it over his head and throws it as far away as possible.\n\n\"Cool, that's taken care of. Let's get a move on.\" You decide it's best not to ask.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nOn top of one cabinet is a piece of hardtack.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the violin", "response": "\"Sure was nice of Blaise to leave that behind for us,\" Verdeterre sniggers.\n\nYou stuff the violin into the sack.\n\nThe water is up to your waist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the hardtack", "response": "Before tucking into the hardtack, you look over at your captain. He nods in approval, and you scarf the whole thing down.\n\nNow the water is up to your chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nNow the water is up to your chest.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ambergris", "response": "Captain Verdeterre wrinkles his nose. \"What on earth is that thing? I don't like the looks of it.\"\n\nYou hold onto it anyway.\n\nYou stretch out your neck as the waters close over your shoulders.\n\nThe crate disappears under the water, and the horrible smell starts to fade away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "Here is where the captain sleeps, where he eats, where he does his deep thinking. Most of this happens in his bed. Hung on one wall is a shelf, set aside for the captain's favorite objects.\n\nA pin is sticking out of the forward bulkhead, holding up the handkerchief outside.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.\n\nOn the shelf are a gold medallion and an iron key.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the medallion", "response": "You give the medallion a quick once-over and ask Verdeterre, \"What did you do to earn this?\"\n\n\"I stole it.\"\n\nYou stuff the gold medallion into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the medallion", "response": "The medal shines so brightly that you cannot doubt it is real gold. The face has been stamped with the image of an angry-looking lion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelf", "response": "The captain had this shelf set up to display the most beloved of his possessions that he was able to keep track of.\n\nOn the shelf is an iron key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shelf", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the shell", "response": "You hear nothing unexpected.\n\nThe water glides over the decks and soon it is up to your ankles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the shell", "response": "Taken.\n\nIf you leave things lying around, you're liable to forget about them entirely.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.\n\n{A friendly reminder: Substantial resources have been invested in\nthe research and implementation of this game's Nautical Vocabulary Notes. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you very much.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pin", "response": "You pull the pin out from the handkerchief, and it falls between the boards. Now you should be able to retrieve the hanky from the other side of the wall.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hanky", "response": "The captain smiles as you lift up the handkerchief. \"Well, boy, I did make a promise, and I keep my promises. The hanky's yours.\"\n\nYou rub the silk between your fingers, and remark by way of expressing your gratitude that it's a very fine prize.\n\nThe captain nods. \"You're right about that. Actually, it's probably too fine. Yes, you'd better put it in with the other loot so we can sell it later. Good idea.\"\n\nYou stuff the silk handkerchief into the sack.\n\nNow the water reaches your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nThe rising waves climb up to your waist.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the point", "response": "The handle is finely crafted, and the blade comes to a point in a dramatic curve.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "What a dizzying height! The shrouds reach higher, of course, but up here is high enough.\n\nA piece of brass is caught between the boards.\n\nA seagull is perched further out on the rigging.\n\nThe sea continues to bury the main deck, inching its way toward you.\n\nThe captain scampers up the lines ahead of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the seagull", "response": "Your shot goes wide, but the report is enough to make the seagull drop its prize and fly away. The watch falls into the water.\n\nSoon the main deck will be too deep underwater for you to walk around on it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nThe water reaches your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now.\n\nThe dagger's edge glints one last time before disappearing in the murk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n***\n***The return to civilization was a long one, but you both survived, and the long task of liquidating your assets finally began. Now, having dealt with numerous fences, suckers, and a few legitimate businessmen, you take inventory of your priceless treasures and how much they turned out to worth:\n\nThe skull of an African gorilla, sold for 70 Spanish dollars to a credulous fellow already possessing the incomplete skeleton of an orangutan...\nA musky grey lump, later identified as a piece of rare ambergris, valued at 179 dollars...\nAn unremarkable but serviceable violin, sold for 50 dollars...\nA silk handkerchief, sold for 10 dollars...\nA medallion of mysterious provenance, sold for 68 dollars...\nA slightly chipped nautilus shell, sold to a British dandy for 49 dollars...\n\n...For a total of 426 Spanish dollars.\n\nThe first mate's share of that came to 26 Spanish dollars and 5 reales.\n\n***", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Ah, open air. The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "Here is where the captain sleeps, where he eats, where he does his deep thinking. Most of this happens in his bed. Hung on one wall is a shelf, set aside for the captain's favorite objects.\n\nA pin is sticking out of the forward bulkhead, holding up the handkerchief outside.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.\n\nOn the shelf are a gold medallion and an iron key.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "Verdeterre's eyes light up as you lift the key. \"I know what that is! That's the key to the strongbox in the hold! I knew it was somewhere.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nDespite the height of the water, you can still just barely reach the iron strongbox.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock box", "response": "(with the iron key)\nYou unlock the iron strongbox.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "You open the strongbox, revealing a green glass bottle. The captain's eyes brighten. \"Now I remember! Grab hold of that bottle before it sinks!\"\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. You need to get to higher ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bottle", "response": "You stuff the green glass bottle into the sack.\n\nThe water closes over your head. You might have time to do one last thing before you drown...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the doll", "response": "\"You know,\" says Verdeterre, \"that doll gives me an idea. Better take it along.\"\n\nYou stuff the wooden doll into the sack.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ambergris", "response": "Captain Verdeterre wrinkles his nose. \"What on earth is that thing? I don't like the looks of it.\"\n\nYou hold onto it anyway.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sextant", "response": "\"I hate those things,\" says the captain. \"Nobody will build one that's small enough for us to use.\"\n\nYou stuff the sextant into the sack.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the flagbox", "response": "You open the flag box, revealing a red and yellow flag.\n\nThe water is up to your waist.\n\nThe waves lift the barrel off the floor, and it rolls away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flag", "response": "You pull the flag out of the box and unfold it: the design is a yellow cross on a red field. \"Whose flag is this?\" you ask your captain.\n\n\"I dunno. I think Denmark? Anyway, it's useless. Toss it.\"\n\nYou nod, and throw the flag somewhere where it won't get in the way.\n\nThe flag that was underneath is striped.\n\nNow the water is up to your chest.\n\nThe flag box is covered by water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the flagbox", "response": "You open the flag box, revealing a red and yellow flag.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flag", "response": "You pull the flag out of the box and unfold it: the design is a yellow cross on a red field. \"Whose flag is this?\" you ask your captain.\n\n\"I dunno. I think Denmark? Anyway, it's useless. Toss it.\"\n\nYou nod, and throw the flag somewhere where it won't get in the way.\n\nThe flag that was underneath is striped.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flag", "response": "You unfold the striped flag to see the entire design. It's a blue stripe, a white stripe, a red stripe, a white stripe, and a blue stripe.\n\n\"That's the Russian flag,\" Verdeterre explains. \"You're holding it upside down.\"\n\nIt's just a Russian flag anyway, so you toss it. The next flag in the box has a red X on it.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flag", "response": "This flag has a red X on a white field. \"That's the Swiss flag,\" Verdeterre says, but then he stops himself: \"No, wait. The Swiss flag is a white cross on red. So this one, I guess, is for... the Swiss navy.\"\n\nThe captain seems put off a bit at himself, so you throw away the offending flag.\n\nAt the bottom of the flag box is an old tapestry.\n\nThe water is up to your waist.\n\nThe waves lift the barrel off the floor, and it rolls away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the tapestry", "response": "You pull out the tapestry and unfold it. It depicts a rat in clerical garb lying on his back, his stomach pierced by the spear of a human paladin. The rat's fingers are either raised in pious benediction or twisted in pain.\n\n\"Hey, that's the Martyrdom of Saint Incertus!\" says Verdeterre. \"He's the patron saint of the pursued, I think. Too bad he's not the patron saint of shipwrecks. Better take it along.\"\n\nYou fold it up carefully. \"Why did they martyr him?\" you ask.\n\n\"Well, between the Human Catholic Church and the Rat Catholic Church there are some differences in the rules—such as, according to the human church, you're not allowed to declare yourself a saint. It's considered presumptuous. But we did get a tapestry out of it.\"\n\nYou stuff the tapestry of Saint Incertus into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your chest.\n\nThe flag box is covered by water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sextant", "response": "\"I hate those things,\" says the captain. \"Nobody will build one that's small enough for us to use.\"\n\nYou stuff the sextant into the sack.\n\nYou stretch out your neck as the waters close over your shoulders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nThe waters have reached your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.\n\nThe water carries away the portrait of your noble captain, who whimpers pathetically as it disappears.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now.\n\nThe rising waves push the violin off of its hook, and it floats away.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the locket", "response": "\"Ooh, jewelry! Good eye, Tibert!\" says the captain.\n\nYou stuff the silver locket into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "Here is where the captain sleeps, where he eats, where he does his deep thinking. Most of this happens in his bed. Hung on one wall is a shelf, set aside for the captain's favorite objects.\n\nA pin is sticking out of the forward bulkhead, holding up the handkerchief outside.\n\nOn the captain's bed is a silk pillow.\n\nOn the shelf is a gold medallion.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pin", "response": "You pull the pin out from the handkerchief, and it falls between the boards. Now you should be able to retrieve the hanky from the other side of the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the medallion", "response": "You give the medallion a quick once-over and ask Verdeterre, \"What did you do to earn this?\"\n\n\"I stole it.\"\n\nYou stuff the gold medallion into the sack.\n\nThe water glides over the decks and soon it is up to your ankles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hanky", "response": "The captain smiles as you lift up the handkerchief. \"Well, boy, I did make a promise, and I keep my promises. The hanky's yours.\"\n\nYou rub the silk between your fingers, and remark by way of expressing your gratitude that it's a very fine prize.\n\nThe captain nods. \"You're right about that. Actually, it's probably too fine. Yes, you'd better put it in with the other loot so we can sell it later. Good idea.\"\n\nYou stuff the silk handkerchief into the sack.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "You pull on the handle of the dagger, but it remains stuck in the mast.\n\n\"Hey, that was Saad's, right?\" Verdeterre asks. \"What happened to him?\"\n\n\"I think you told him you were going to kill him, so he ran away,\" you say.\n\nHe frowns. \"Man, I think you're right. Wow. I shoulda been nicer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take dagger", "response": "You pull again. You're almost there. You can feel the dagger's resolve fading.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "With a mighty tug, you wrench the dagger from the mast. \"All right, cool; put it in the bag,\" says Verdeterre.\n\nYou stuff the curved dagger into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the mirror", "response": "You pick up the mirror, and Verdeterre motions for you to point it at him. He checks to make sure he's wearing his hat at an appropriately jaunty angle. He nods in approval.\n\nYou stuff the hand mirror into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the locket", "response": "\"Ooh, jewelry! Good eye, Tibert!\" says the captain.\n\nYou stuff the silver locket into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ambergris", "response": "Captain Verdeterre wrinkles his nose. \"What on earth is that thing? I don't like the looks of it.\"\n\nYou hold onto it anyway.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb", "response": "What do you want to climb?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "What a dizzying height! The shrouds reach higher, of course, but up here is high enough.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.\n\nA piece of brass is caught between the boards.\n\nA seagull is perched further out on the rigging.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downward", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the bowsprit", "response": "You climb out to hang precariously from the bowsprit.\n\nFrom this position you can look right in the figurehead's face. She seems entirely too calm, given the circumstances.\n\nAround her neck is a string of pearls.\n\nYou notice that the waters have just crested over the main deck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the necklace", "response": "You pull one hand free from the bowsprit to snatch up the necklace, and nearly lose your grip.\n\n\"Careful down there!\" Verdeterre cries. \"I don't know what I'd do with myself if you lost any of our stuff. You should probably toss the necklace up to me so you don't drop it. Or I guess just put it in the bag.\"\n\nYou stuff the pearl necklace into the sack.\n\nThe water continues to rise down on the main deck.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Very, very carefully, you climb back from the bowsprit to the relative safety of the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe main deck keeps on sinking.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You descend", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n***\n***The return to civilization was a long one, but you both survived, and the long task of liquidating your assets finally began. Now, having dealt with numerous fences, suckers, and a few legitimate businessmen, you take inventory of your priceless treasures and how much they turned out to worth:\n\nA musky grey lump, later identified as a piece of rare ambergris, valued at 179 dollars...\nA silk handkerchief, sold for 10 dollars...\nA silver locket, sold to a lovesick and desperate young man for 15 dollars...\nA Yemeni jambiya, with a handle of rhinoceros horn, worth 276 dollars...\nA cheap hand mirror, worth 12 dollars to a man who thought his soul was trapped inside...\nA medallion of mysterious provenance, sold for 68 dollars...\nA cheap reproduction of a Ptolemaic statuette of the Egyptian god Thoth, melted down into lead ingots worth four dollars...\nAn extremely fine pearl necklace, sold to a \"Bavarian princess\" for 186 dollars...\n\n...For a total of 750 Spanish dollars.\n\nThe first mate's share of that came to 46 Spanish dollars and 7 reales.\n\n***", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nA fid is lying on the deck.\n\nThe deck below is still sinking.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fid", "response": "\"Do we need this?\" you ask your captain, indicating the fid.\n\nHe says, \"I kinda doubt it, but you might as well.\"\n\nYou pick up the fid.\n\nBy now the main deck is under about three feet of water.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nThe water is up to your chest.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pin", "response": "The pin is pulled through two corners of the handkerchief, making it impossible to pull the cloth away from the other side of the partition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pillow", "response": "You pick up the pillow.\n\n\"Oh, no. I'm gonna miss that little guy,\" says Verdeterre. \"I've never been able to get to sleep without it. But it needs to must, when devils drive!\"\n\nYou stuff the silk pillow into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop it", "response": "Taken.\n\nIf you leave things lying around, you're liable to forget about them entirely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na silk pillow\na commodious sack (empty)\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.\n\nThis was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the map table", "response": "In lieu of an actual map, some vague charts have been carved on the surface of the table. To you they are meaningless; to Verdeterre they are invaluable guides to the sea.\n\nOn the map table is a sextant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the charts", "response": "You squint at the charts. \"Where exactly are we?\" you ask.\n\n\"I thought I told you to quit asking,\" says the captain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crate", "response": "It's a large crate, used for transporting various different types of cargo.\n\nIn the smelly crate is a musky grey lump.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nDespite the height of the water, you can still just barely reach the iron strongbox.\n\nYou can barely see where you're going, squeezing your eyes to keep out the salt water. You need to get to higher ground.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Aft", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nAn ornate vase stands nearby.\n\nA crystal ball is rolling around on the floor.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the vase", "response": "Sure is dark in there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get vase", "response": "The captain squeaks approvingly. \"That's a good one. That'll keep us fed for a week.\"\n\nYou stuff the ornate vase into the sack.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the vase at the seagull", "response": "(first taking the ornate vase)\nTaken.\n\nYou lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vase", "response": "The white ceramic is painted with a pattern of twisting blue vines and leaves. It seems very fragile.\n\n\"It's Chinese,\" explains the captain. \"The guys we stole it from were Spanish, but I'm pretty sure the guys they stole it from were Chinese.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the vase", "response": "If you leave things lying around, you're liable to forget about them entirely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the fid in the vase", "response": "Better not. You wouldn't want to break anything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot vase", "response": "You shoot the vase, which shatters to pieces. Your captain slaps his tiny forehead with his tiny paw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na fid\na commodious sack (empty)\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot vase", "response": "You shoot the vase, which shatters to pieces. Your captain slaps his tiny forehead with his tiny paw.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nThe captain surveys the situation with a sober eye.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nA crystal ball is rolling around on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ball", "response": "The crystal is bright and clear. Verdeterre and the fortune-teller were business partners, briefly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na commodious sack (empty)\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cut pillow", "response": "Cutting that up would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fore", "response": "This is the foremost section of the hold, the location of the giant hole that the reef tore in the ship's hull. Water is gushing in at an alarming rate.\n\nThe rest of the hold (and the stairs to the decks above) is aft.\n\nA perturbed-looking gorilla skull hangs from a hook on the wall.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pillow in the hole", "response": "First you take the silk pillow.\n\nTaken.\n\nIf you leave something in there, you're liable to never find it again.\n\nYou're struggling to keep your head above water.\n\nThe gorilla skull seems to eye you accusingly as it sinks into the murk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the skull", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Rat", "response": "I don't suppose Captain Verdeterre would care for that.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the ball", "response": "The sphere gleams, and the words of the fortune-teller bubble up in your mind: death by water...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nAn ornate vase stands nearby.\n\nA crystal ball is rolling around on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search ballast", "response": "There's no time to be bothering with the ballast. The ballast has done its job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot vase", "response": "You shoot the vase, which shatters to pieces. Your captain slaps his tiny forehead with his tiny paw.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nA crystal ball is rolling around on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the doll", "response": "\"You know,\" says Verdeterre, \"that doll gives me an idea. Better take it along.\"\n\nYou stuff the wooden doll into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Captain about the doll", "response": "The captain shushes you. \"Maybe save the chitchat for dry land, you know?\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search crate", "response": "In the smelly crate is a musky grey lump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the portrait", "response": "Verdeterre sighs. \"It'll be a shame to sell off an item of such gorgeousness and sentimentality,\" he says, \"but I suppose these are desperate times.\"\n\nYou stuff the captain's portrait into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take lamp", "response": "You stuff the oil lamp into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot shell", "response": "You shoot the nautilus shell, and it shatters. The captain curses at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the bed", "response": "Verdeterre jumps between you and the bed. \"What do you think you're doing?\" he hisses. \"We've got wealth to amass!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move bed", "response": "That's fine where it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot captain", "response": "You couldn't. What would you do without him?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the pillow", "response": "Your bullet reduces the silk pillow to shreds. The captain curses at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "First you take the gold medallion.\n\nTaken.\n\nYou can't wear that!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the crystal ball", "response": "You aim and fire, and your bullet (your only bullet) bounces off the crystal ball harmlessly.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot strongbox", "response": "You used up your only bullet when you shot that crystal ball.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.\n\nThe crystal ball disappears as the current sweeps over it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This is the foremost section of the hold, the location of the giant hole that the reef tore in the ship's hull. Water is gushing in at an alarming rate.\n\nThe rest of the hold (and the stairs to the decks above) is aft.\n\nA perturbed-looking gorilla skull hangs from a hook on the wall.\n\nIn one corner of the room is a pewter goblet.\n\nA thick book lies close by.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.\n\nThe book sinks out of sight.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot gorilla", "response": "You used up your only bullet when you shot that iron strongbox.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.\n\nThe goblet is lost in the swirling waters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot gorilla", "response": "You fire at the skull, which explodes into pieces and is gone forever.\n\n\"No! Oh, Charlie!\" cries the captain. He looks up at you in disbelief. \"What did you do that for?\"\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nOn top of one cabinet is a piece of hardtack.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "The cabinet's door won't budge. It's locked.\n\nVerdeterre rolls his eyes. \"Yeah, I have no idea where the key is. Just forget about it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the cabinet", "response": "\"Good idea!\" Verdeterre shouts, as he gets out of the way. You blast away the lock, and the cabinet door falls open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in cabinet", "response": "In the cabinet are a porcelain plate and a pile of silverware.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the plate", "response": "\"Where did that come from?\" Verdeterre mumbles. \"Do you think Blaise was holding out on us?\"\n\nYou stuff the porcelain plate into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the silverware", "response": "Verdeterre nods in approval as you struggle to pick up every fork, knife, and spoon. For him to assist in any way would be unprofessional.\n\nYou stuff the pile of silverware into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the violin", "response": "\"Sure was nice of Blaise to leave that behind for us,\" Verdeterre sniggers.\n\nYou stuff the violin into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hardtack", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the doll", "response": "\"You know,\" says Verdeterre, \"that doll gives me an idea. Better take it along.\"\n\nYou stuff the wooden doll into the sack.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the crate", "response": "In the smelly crate is a musky grey lump.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lump", "response": "Captain Verdeterre wrinkles his nose. \"What on earth is that thing? I don't like the looks of it.\"\n\nYou hold onto it anyway.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "Ah, open air. The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the locket", "response": "\"Ooh, jewelry! Good eye, Tibert!\" says the captain.\n\nYou stuff the silver locket into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the handkerchief", "response": "The captain smiles as you lift up the handkerchief. \"Well, boy, I did make a promise, and I keep my promises. The hanky's yours.\"\n\nYou rub the silk between your fingers, and remark by way of expressing your gratitude that it's a very fine prize.\n\nThe captain nods. \"You're right about that. Actually, it's probably too fine. Yes, you'd better put it in with the other loot so we can sell it later. Good idea.\"\n\nYou stuff the silk handkerchief into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the hardtack", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou notice that the waters have just crested over the main deck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water continues to rise down on the main deck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "\"Au clair de la lune, something, something...\" Hmm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the hardtack at the gull", "response": "(first taking the piece of hardtack)\nYou lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.\n\nYou notice that the waters have just crested over the main deck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the hardtack to the gull", "response": "The seagull doesn't seem interested.\n\nThe water continues to rise down on the main deck.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.\n\nThe mirror disappears beneath the waves.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n***\n***The return to civilization was a long one, but you both survived, and the long task of liquidating your assets finally began. Now, having dealt with numerous fences, suckers, and a few legitimate businessmen, you take inventory of your priceless treasures and how much they turned out to worth:\n\nA Dutch peg doll which, after some modification and repainting, was sold as an \"African fertility idol\" for 36 dollars...\nA musky grey lump, later identified as a piece of rare ambergris, valued at 179 dollars...\nAn unremarkable but serviceable violin, sold for 50 dollars...\nA plate of fine Japanese porcelain, sold to a heron enthusiast for 160 dollars...\nAn incomplete set of Verlaine silver worth 90 dollars...\nA silk handkerchief, sold for 10 dollars...\nA silver locket, sold to a lovesick and desperate young man for 15 dollars...\nA medallion of mysterious provenance, sold for 68 dollars...\n\n...For a total of 608 Spanish dollars.\n\nThe first mate's share of that came to 38 Spanish dollars.\n\n***", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at the sea", "response": "It goes on forever: a blue expanse uninterrupted by any island. Who would have thought something so boring could be so deadly?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The crew's quarters were never intended to be welcoming or well-appointed. The walls are lined with hammocks. The exit is aft.\n\nAn old zither lies in the corner.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search hammocks", "response": "Rifling through your old crewmates\" hammocks, you find something heavy: a chessboard.\n\n\"Hey, where'd that come from?\" Verdeterre asks.\n\n\"It was in one of the hammocks,\" you answer.\n\n\"Yeah, I meant before that.\"\n\n\"Oh. I don't know. Sorry.\"\n\n\"It's okay,\" says Verdeterre.\n\nYou stuff the chessboard into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot zither", "response": "You shoot the zither, and it explodes in a wild display of chipped wood and popping strings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na commodious sack\na chessboard\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search hammocks", "response": "Verdeterre shoos you away from the hammocks. \"I think we already looked there.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hammocks", "response": "Before you can start pulling down a hammock, Verdeterre clicks at you.\n\n\"Don't bother. We'll find something for you to sleep in. Or under. Leave it to me,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the zither", "response": "You point at the zither, and the captain says \"Yeah, sure. It's out of tune, though.\"\n\nYou lift the instrument from the floor. \"How do you know?\"\n\n\"I don't, but it stands to reason, right?\"\n\nYou stuff the zither into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search boat", "response": "The life boat is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the bowsprit", "response": "You climb out to hang precariously from the bowsprit.\n\nFrom this position you can look right in the figurehead's face. She seems entirely too calm, given the circumstances.\n\nAround her neck is a string of pearls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss figurehead", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the necklace", "response": "You pull one hand free from the bowsprit to snatch up the necklace, and nearly lose your grip.\n\n\"Careful down there!\" Verdeterre cries. \"I don't know what I'd do with myself if you lost any of our stuff. You should probably toss the necklace up to me so you don't drop it. Or I guess just put it in the bag.\"\n\nYou stuff the pearl necklace into the sack.\n\nYou notice that the waters have just crested over the main deck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the figurehead", "response": "From this position you can look right in the figurehead's face. She seems entirely too calm, given the circumstances.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "Very, very carefully, you climb back from the bowsprit to the relative safety of the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe water continues to rise down on the main deck.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nThe captain eyes you expectantly.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n***\n***The return to civilization was a long one, but you both survived, and the long task of liquidating your assets finally began. Now, having dealt with numerous fences, suckers, and a few legitimate businessmen, you take inventory of your priceless treasures and how much they turned out to worth:\n\nA zither, origins unknown, sold to a musical enthusiast for 40 dollars...\nA cheap hand mirror, worth 12 dollars to a man who thought his soul was trapped inside...\nA small brass crown, which Verdeterre refused to even consider selling...\nA gold watch, used as bait in a grift that netted 160 dollars...\nAn ivory chessboard worth 28 dollars...\nAn extremely fine pearl necklace, sold to a \"Bavarian princess\" for 186 dollars...\n\n...For a total of 426 Spanish dollars.\n\nThe first mate's share of that came to 26 Spanish dollars and 5 reales.\n\n***", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cup", "response": "\"That one, for sure,\" says the captain. \"People will pay all kinds of money for fancy chalices like that.\"\n\nYou stuff the pewter goblet into the sack.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the skull", "response": "The captain smiles at the skull. \"Good old Charlie! What a spirited guy. If I had the chance, I think I'd shoot him again.\"\n\nYou stuff the gorilla skull into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You open the strongbox", "response": "You yank on the lid of the strongbox, but it's locked tight.\n\n\"Oh, shoot,\" says Verdeterre. \"I forget where I left the key. Knowing me, it's probably hidden extremely well. But I can't remember what was in there, either, so it's not a big loss.\"\n\nThe water closes over your head. You might have time to do one last thing before you drown...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the skull", "response": "The captain smiles at the skull. \"Good old Charlie! What a spirited guy. If I had the chance, I think I'd shoot him again.\"\n\nYou stuff the gorilla skull into the sack.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na thick book (closed)\na commodious sack\na gorilla skull\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lump", "response": "Captain Verdeterre wrinkles his nose. \"What on earth is that thing? I don't like the looks of it.\"\n\nYou hold onto it anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the box", "response": "You are unable to pick up the flag box, as it has been securely attached to the cabin floor. In retrospect, that wasn't a great idea.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This was the map room originally, and then it became a kind of general storage space, and then it was picked almost clean by various deserters.\n\nThe captain strokes his tail thoughtfully.\n\nThe flag box stands nearby.\n\nIn the center of the room is the map table; sitting on top is a sextant.\n\nThere's a barrel over in the corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nOn top of one cabinet is a piece of hardtack.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the cabinet", "response": "\"Good idea!\" Verdeterre shouts, as he gets out of the way. You blast away the lock, and the cabinet door falls open.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "That has been taken care of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the silverware", "response": "Verdeterre nods in approval as you struggle to pick up every fork, knife, and spoon. For him to assist in any way would be unprofessional.\n\nYou stuff the pile of silverware into the sack.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the plate", "response": "\"Where did that come from?\" Verdeterre mumbles. \"Do you think Blaise was holding out on us?\"\n\nYou stuff the porcelain plate into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the violin", "response": "\"Sure was nice of Blaise to leave that behind for us,\" Verdeterre sniggers.\n\nYou stuff the violin into the sack.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na musky grey lump\na commodious sack\na gold medallion\na violin\na porcelain plate\na pile of silverware\na tapestry of Saint Incertus\na crystal ball\na gorilla skull\na flintlock pistol", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nA fid is lying on the deck.\n\nThe main deck keeps on sinking.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb bowsprit", "response": "You climb out to hang precariously from the bowsprit.\n\nFrom this position you can look right in the figurehead's face. She seems entirely too calm, given the circumstances.\n\nAround her neck is a string of pearls.\n\nThere might be about a foot of water over the main deck now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take necklace", "response": "You pull one hand free from the bowsprit to snatch up the necklace, and nearly lose your grip.\n\n\"Careful down there!\" Verdeterre cries. \"I don't know what I'd do with myself if you lost any of our stuff. You should probably toss the necklace up to me so you don't drop it. Or I guess just put it in the bag.\"\n\nYou stuff the pearl necklace into the sack.\n\nThe deck below is still sinking.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "Very, very carefully, you climb back from the bowsprit to the relative safety of the fo'c'sle.\n\nBy now the main deck is under about three feet of water.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nThe water is up to your chest.\n\n{A friendly reminder: Substantial resources have been invested in\nthe research and implementation of this game's Nautical Vocabulary Notes. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you very much.}\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The crew's quarters were never intended to be welcoming or well-appointed. The walls are lined with hammocks. The exit is aft.\n\nThe waves close over your shoulders.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search hammocks", "response": "Rifling through your old crewmates\" hammocks, you find something heavy: a chessboard.\n\n\"Hey, where'd that come from?\" Verdeterre asks.\n\n\"It was in one of the hammocks,\" you answer.\n\n\"Yeah, I meant before that.\"\n\n\"Oh. I don't know. Sorry.\"\n\n\"It's okay,\" says Verdeterre.\n\nYou stuff the chessboard into the sack.\n\nThe water reaches your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n\" you ask.\n\n\"Shut up,\" Verdeterre snaps. But then his eyes open, and he scurries over to you with an unfamiliar expression on his face.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" he says. \"I shouldn't have yelled at you like that. I owe all of this to you. I owe a lot of it to you, anyway. But I've never thanked you.\"\n\nHe touches your hand with his paw. \"Thank you, Tibert. Thank you for joining my crew. Thank you for not abandoning me like every single other jerk I ever hired did. And thank you for making me so incredibly rich.\"\n\nYou can't think of anything to say. Verdeterre turns around to survey his money again.\n\n\"Yeah. Yes,\" he says. \"I am going to buy a polar bear.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "A lot of the things kept in the hold are just ballast, but there are a few items of interest. Fore from here is the rest of the hold, and stairs lead up to the lower deck.\n\nRoughly in the center of the space is an iron strongbox.\n\nThe waters have reached your chin. You're having trouble keeping your footing.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock strongbox", "response": "(with the iron key)\nYou unlock the iron strongbox.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "You open the flag box, revealing a red and yellow flag.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take flag", "response": "You pull the flag out of the box and unfold it: the design is a yellow cross on a red field. \"Whose flag is this?\" you ask your captain.\n\n\"I dunno. I think Denmark? Anyway, it's useless. Toss it.\"\n\nYou nod, and throw the flag somewhere where it won't get in the way.\n\nThe flag that was underneath is striped.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nOn top of one cabinet is a piece of hardtack.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take plate", "response": "\"Where did that come from?\" Verdeterre mumbles. \"Do you think Blaise was holding out on us?\"\n\nYou stuff the porcelain plate into the sack.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the silverware", "response": "Verdeterre nods in approval as you struggle to pick up every fork, knife, and spoon. For him to assist in any way would be unprofessional.\n\nYou stuff the pile of silverware into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your thighs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the violin", "response": "\"Sure was nice of Blaise to leave that behind for us,\" Verdeterre sniggers.\n\nYou stuff the violin into the sack.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You twist the dagger", "response": "{It is politely requested that you respect the orientation of the curved dagger.}\n\nJacqueline undoes 236 times.\nJacqueline undoes 405 times.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dagger", "response": "[Previous turn undone.]\n\nYou pull on the handle of the dagger, but it remains stuck in the mast.\n\n\"Hey, that was Saad's, right?\" Verdeterre asks. \"What happened to him?\"\n\n\"I think you told him you were going to kill him, so he ran away,\" you say.\n\nHe frowns. \"Man, I think you're right. Wow. I shoulda been nicer.\"\n\nThe water glides over the decks and soon it is up to your ankles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dagger", "response": "You pull again. You're almost there. You can feel the dagger's resolve fading.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dagger", "response": "With a mighty tug, you wrench the dagger from the mast. \"All right, cool; put it in the bag,\" says Verdeterre.\n\nYou stuff the curved dagger into the sack.\n\nNow the water is up to your shins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nA fid is lying on the deck.\n\nThere might be about a foot of water over the main deck now.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the bowsprit", "response": "You climb out to hang precariously from the bowsprit.\n\nFrom this position you can look right in the figurehead's face. She seems entirely too calm, given the circumstances.\n\nAround her neck is a string of pearls.\n\nThe deck below is still sinking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the necklace", "response": "You pull one hand free from the bowsprit to snatch up the necklace, and nearly lose your grip.\n\n\"Careful down there!\" Verdeterre cries. \"I don't know what I'd do with myself if you lost any of our stuff. You should probably toss the necklace up to me so you don't drop it. Or I guess just put it in the bag.\"\n\nYou stuff the pearl necklace into the sack.\n\nBy now the main deck is under about three feet of water.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "Very, very carefully, you climb back from the bowsprit to the relative safety of the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe sea continues to bury the main deck, inching its way toward you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downward", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nThe waves close over your shoulders.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n\" you ask.\n\n\"Shut up,\" Verdeterre snaps. But then his eyes open, and he scurries over to you with an unfamiliar expression on his face.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" he says. \"I shouldn't have yelled at you like that. I owe all of this to you. I owe a lot of it to you, anyway. But I've never thanked you.\"\n\nHe touches your hand with his paw. \"Thank you, Tibert. Thank you for joining my crew. Thank you for not abandoning me like every single other jerk I ever hired did. And thank you for making me so incredibly rich.\"\n\nYou can't think of anything to say. Verdeterre turns around to survey his money again.\n\n\"Yeah. Yes,\" he says. \"I am going to buy a polar bear.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold, and in fact actually smells somewhat pleasant. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\n{This game includes Nautical Vocabulary Notes for your\nedification. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you.}\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.\n\nAh, open air. The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.\n\nYou have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.\n\nYou can't move in that direction from here. {The available\ndirections are displayed in the status bar above.}\n\nYou can't move in that direction from here. {The available\ndirections are displayed in the status bar above.}", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.\n\nThis end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nYour life boat is hanging from the davits here.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The crew's quarters were never intended to be welcoming or well-appointed. The walls are lined with hammocks. The exit is aft.\n\nAn old zither lies in the corner.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get fid", "response": "The bowsprit extends from the prow here, and below that is the figurehead. Down the stairs abaft is the capstan.\n\nA fid is lying on the deck.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.\n\n\"Do we need this?\" you ask your captain, indicating the fid.\n\nHe says, \"I kinda doubt it, but you might as well.\"\n\nYou pick up the fid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at rigging", "response": "To any experienced sailor, navigating a ship's labyrinthine web of rigging is as simple as walking down the street, and to you it is only slightly more difficult. You've been working on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the fid at the rigging", "response": "Futile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb rigging", "response": "You scramble back down to the deck.\n\nThe mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nA hand mirror is lying on the floor.\n\nHOW DID THIS GET HERE. THIS SHOULDN'T HAPPEN. REPORT A BUG PLEASE.\n.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You do hear music. It's coming from a narrow tunnel that somebody gnawed in the planks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the tunnel", "response": "You reach in as far as your arm will go, but you don't manage to get ahold of anything.\n\n\"Hey, what are you doing over there? What do you want with that hole?\" Verdeterre asks, yanking your hand out of the tunnel. \"Don't stick your flat little nose where it doesn't belong. If there's something to be gotten out of a rat tunnel, I'll get it out. Hold on, and don't\nbe screwing around up here while I'm away.\"\n\nThe captain disappears into the tunnel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Ha! Ha ha!\" The captain emerges from the tunnel, dragging a tiny wooden chest behind him. \"Can you believe this? It's my music box! It must have turned itself on when you hit the reef!\"\n\nHe leans against the case and wipes his brow. \"Good job finding it,\" he says.\n\nDid he just say \"good job\"Verdeterre clicks loudly, dispelling your reverie. \"Hey. Put this in the bag,\" he demands.\n\nYou stuff the music box into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThere might be about a foot of water over the main deck now.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You do hear music. It's coming from a narrow tunnel that somebody gnawed in the planks.\n\nThe deck below is still sinking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the tunnel", "response": "You reach as far into the hole as your arm will go, but you don't manage to get ahold of anything.\n\nCaptain Verdeterre looks back up at you from the waters rising on the main deck. \"Uh, I don't think we have time for that right now,\" he says. \"We should probably get to the lifeboat pretty soon.\" You withdraw your arm.\n\nBy now the main deck is under about three feet of water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThe main deck keeps on sinking.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the tunnel", "response": "You reach as far into the hole as your arm will go, but you don't manage to get ahold of anything.\n\nCaptain Verdeterre looks back up at you from the waters rising on the main deck. \"Uh, I don't think we have time for that right now,\" he says. \"We should probably get to the lifeboat pretty soon.\" You withdraw your arm.\n\nThere might be about a foot of water over the main deck now.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nYour chance to return to the main deck is almost gone.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThe water continues to rise down on the main deck.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in tunnel", "response": "You reach as far into the hole as your arm will go, but you don't manage to get ahold of anything.\n\nCaptain Verdeterre looks back up at you from the waters rising on the main deck. \"Uh, I don't think we have time for that right now,\" he says. \"We should probably get to the lifeboat pretty soon.\" You withdraw your arm.\n\nThe main deck keeps on sinking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nThe water glides over the decks and soon it is up to your ankles.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.\n\nYou have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThe water continues to rise down on the main deck.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the tunnel", "response": "You reach as far into the hole as your arm will go, but you don't manage to get ahold of anything.\n\nCaptain Verdeterre looks back up at you from the waters rising on the main deck. \"Uh, I don't think we have time for that right now,\" he says. \"We should probably get to the lifeboat pretty soon.\" You withdraw your arm.\n\nThe main deck keeps on sinking.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the tunnel", "response": "You reach in as far as your arm will go, but you don't manage to get ahold of anything.\n\n\"Hey, what are you doing over there? What do you want with that hole?\" Verdeterre asks, yanking your hand out of the tunnel. \"Don't stick your flat little nose where it doesn't belong. If there's something to be gotten out of a rat tunnel, I'll get it out. Hold on, and don't\nbe screwing around up here while I'm away.\"\n\nThe captain disappears into the tunnel.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You'd better not. Captain Verdeterre said no screwing around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mainmast", "response": "The mainmast is the tallest and most important mast of the ship. Someone has wedged a dagger in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot up", "response": "You must name something more substantial.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "cheapglulxe quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sextant", "response": "\"I hate those things,\" says the captain. \"Nobody will build one that's small enough for us to use.\"\n\nYou stuff the sextant into the sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The lower deck is quite a bit homier than the hold. The galley is fore, and the map room is aft. Stairs lead down to the hold and up to the main deck.\n\nA portrait of your captain hangs on one wall.\n\nLying on the floor is a wooden doll.\n\nThere's a large wooden crate here, because there was no room for it anywhere else.\n\nThe rising water has reached your ankles.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This room used to be the domain of Blaise, the ship's cook. Now the cabinets are empty, and the room is in a state of rapidly sinking disrepair.\n\nOn top of one cabinet is a piece of hardtack.\n\nHanging on the wall is an old violin.\n\nNow the water is lapping at your shins.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the cabinet", "response": "\"Good idea!\" Verdeterre shouts, as he gets out of the way. You blast away the lock, and the cabinet door falls open.\n\nYour knees are covered by the rising waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take silverware", "response": "Verdeterre nods in approval as you struggle to pick up every fork, knife, and spoon. For him to assist in any way would be unprofessional.\n\nYou stuff the pile of silverware into the sack.\n\nYou wince as the waters climb up around your hips.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You have often stood here, at the stern of the vessel, with a steady hand on the ship's wheel, wondering where you were going. Right now you are not going anywhere.\n\nFrom here you can see the vast stretches of sea you crossed to reach this point—they look much like the stretches of sea you can see in every other direction. Downstairs is the main deck.\n\nA bronze statuette is lying on the boards.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.\n\nFor a second there, you could swear you heard music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe water continues to rise down on the main deck.\n\n\"Ha! Ha ha!\" The captain emerges from the tunnel, dragging a tiny wooden chest behind him. \"Can you believe this? It's my music box! It must have turned itself on when you hit the reef!\"\n\nHe leans against the case and wipes his brow. \"Good job finding it,\" he says.\n\nDid he just say \"good job\"Verdeterre clicks loudly, dispelling your reverie. \"Hey. Put this in the bag,\" he demands.\n\nYou stuff the music box into the sack.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The sea stretches out in all directions. There is no land in sight.\n\nYou can worry about that later, though. Fore is the mainmast, aft is the captain's quarters, upstairs is the quarterdeck, and downstairs is the lower deck.\n\nA silk handkerchief hangs from the aft bulkhead.\n\nThere's a silver locket lying on the deck.\n\nYour knees are underwater now.\n\nThe silver locket sinks out of sight.\n\nThe captain rushes ahead of you, since coming here was his idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The mainmast is lodged in the deck here, near the middle of the ship. It's somewhat like the ship's belly button. Fore is the capstan, aft are the stairs to the lower deck, and up at the top of the mainmast is the top.\n\nThe point of an exotic-looking dagger is lodged in the mast.\n\nThe water rises up around your thighs.\n\nThe captain darts ahead to take stock of the situation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "You pull on the handle of the dagger, but it remains stuck in the mast.\n\n\"Hey, that was Saad's, right?\" Verdeterre asks. \"What happened to him?\"\n\n\"I think you told him you were going to kill him, so he ran away,\" you say.\n\nHe frowns. \"Man, I think you're right. Wow. I shoulda been nicer.\"\n\nNow the water reaches your hips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "The captain sighs as you yank on the dagger. \"It's not coming out,\" he says.\n\nThe rising waves climb up to your waist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dagger", "response": "With a mighty tug, you wrench the dagger from the mast. \"All right, cool; put it in the bag,\" says Verdeterre.\n\nYou stuff the curved dagger into the sack.\n\nThe rising waves climb up to your waist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "This end of the deck is home to the capstan. The crew's quarters are fore and the mainmast is aft. Up a short flight of stairs is the fo'c'sle.\n\nThe life boat, still connected to the davits, is also floating on the rising water.\n\nThe water is up to your chest.\n\nThe captain scurries along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the chessboard", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe water is in your mouth now. It tastes salty.\n\n{A friendly reminder: Substantial resources have been invested in\nthe research and implementation of this game's Nautical Vocabulary Notes. If you would like to enable Nautical Vocabulary Notes, please enter the command \"ENABLE NAUTICAL VOCABULARY NOTES\". Thank you very much.}", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You shove off with all due haste.\n\n***\n***The return to civilization was a long one, but you both survived, and the long task of liquidating your assets finally began. Now, having dealt with numerous fences, suckers, and a few legitimate businessmen, you take inventory of your priceless treasures and how much they turned out to worth:\n\nThe skull of an African gorilla, sold for 70 Spanish dollars to a credulous fellow already possessing the incomplete skeleton of an orangutan...\nA flawless crystal ball worth 60 dollars...\nA musky grey lump, later identified as a piece of rare ambergris, valued at 179 dollars...\nA plate of fine Japanese porcelain, sold to a heron enthusiast for 160 dollars...\nAn incomplete set of Verlaine silver worth 90 dollars...\nA broken sextant, which cost 20 dollars to fix before being sold for 68 dollars, for a total profit of 48 dollars...\nA remarkably well-preserved tapestry of Saint Incertus the Audacious, worth 160 dollars to the monks of his order...\nA Yemeni jambiya, with a handle of rhinoceros horn, worth 276 dollars...\nA medallion of mysterious provenance, sold for 68 dollars...\nAn ivory chessboard worth 28 dollars...\nA slightly chipped nautilus shell, sold to a British dandy for 49 dollars...\nAn extraordinary Genevese music box worth 300 dollars...\n\n...For a total of 1488 Spanish dollars.\n\nThe first mate's share of that came to 93 Spanish dollars.\n\n***", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Historical" ]

[ "cover art", "drama", "drinking", "espionage", "female protagonist", "IFComp 2016", "IFComp Game", "island", "matriarchy", "mystery", "Mythology", "parser", "religion", "second person", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2016" ]

[ 4, 8, 7, 4, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Isle of Aeaea, the eastern Aegean.\n3,500 years ago.\n\n\"What tidings from the northern wastes?\" asked the High Priestess.\n\nHer elderly eyes were glued to the north, across the moonlit lagoon, beyond the cliffs on the other side, towards the great sea. Deep in though, she didn't notice a human shape silhouetted against the glistening waters, scurrying along the clifftop.\n\n\"Alas, my potnia, the Achaeans have taken Tiryns\", said the other woman, her voice so quiet her Egyptian lilt was almost unrecognisable \"They are spreading through the Argolis like wildfire.\"\n\n\"Wildfire\", echoed the High Priestess. \"The Achaeans have a new Wanax, do they not?\"\n\n\"Be truer to say their new Wanax has them - lined up like pieces upon a game-board. Hear me, Circe, I have not the slightest doubt that he had a part in my sister's murder.\"\n\nCirce turned with a placating gesture.\n\n\"Before we publicly accuse the most powerful Wanax of the northern wastes of sacrilegious killing...\"\n\n\"My potnia, you and I know full well that my sister was all that stood between Achaean greed and the palace of Tiryns. Wake up, Circe. Palace after palace, they are bringing their sky-gods southwards and they care not an iota for us or the Goddess. Today it is Tiryns and tomorrow perhaps a closer port, and before we react they shall have a foothold in Crete. Perchance my potnia is growing soft in her old age? Maybe the Goddess needs a more... youthful vehicle for the fulfilment of her designs?\"\n\n\"Oh, let me guess, one of you Avaris women? Do you reckon I cling to this life just to spite you?\"\n\n\"Kindly give us your candidates for evaluation, then. One of your nieces, I suppose?\"\n\n\"In due time. Phaedra shows potential but she is still too young. And concerning Ariadne...\"\n\nThe other woman let go a short, hearty laugh.\n\n\"Ariadne! We Thebans always love a good joke, but it is high time we made a serious move, my potnia.\"\n\n\"Very well. I shall send for her in the morning, and we shall reach a decision before sunset. In fact, you can go fetch my niece yourself.\"\n\n\"Pray tell, which one, my potnia?\"\n\n\"Oh, very droll, very droll...\"\n\nAriadne in Aeaea by Víctor Ojuel\n\nArt by Ara Carrasco.\n\nThe author wishes to thank those who kindly (and bravely!) tested this game in its infancy, namely Ara Carrasco, Matthew Holland, Liz Mercuri and Andrew Schultz.\n\nhow to play.\nType ABOUT AUTHOR to learn more about the author.\nType ABOUT GAME to know more about the game and its historical/mythological setting.\n\n\n\nYou wake up from a dream of winding passages and a beast chasing you, to a morning which is little better: no labyrinth but a tangle of limbs, no beast but a pulsing headache and a concert of snores. A pale, blueish light filters through the wooden ceiling.\n\nWhich is odd, because the living quarters of the palace are all stone, and the other priestesses are rarely this physically affectionate and come to think about that...\n\nYou open your eyes and bolt upright.\n\nThis is not quite the palace's living quarters, more like a ragged wooden shelter. Your memories of yesterday are vague: you remember waiting until the other novices fell asleep, climbing down the outer wall of the palace, sneaking along the clifftop to meet the shepherd boys, and then all is a blur.\n\nAn empty jug lies on its side against a wall, abandoned where it stopped rolling. Just like the human occupants of the hut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Instructions", "response": "These are all the actions you need to complete the game:\n\nUse N, S, E, W, NE, NW, SE and SW to move in the cardinal directions. Use ENTER and OUT to get in and out of buildings.\nUse INVENTORY to see the objects you carry and the clothes you wear. Use LOOK to see your surroundings.\nUse EXAMINE to learn more about a certain object or person.\nUse TAKE to pick up objects and GIVE TO to\ninteract with humans.\nUse WEAR and TAKE OFF to don and disrobe pieces of clothing.\nUse TALK TO to interact socially.\nUse PUSH and PULL to move heavy objects.\nAnd if you get stuck and would like a hint, use THINK to switch on your grey cells!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Now that your vision has cleared a little, you take better stock of your surroundings. The hut is little more than a rough wooden shack, and the only furniture is a rudimentary rack on one side of the entrance. Most of the space is taken up by the... bed, if you could call it that. Two boys are sleeping there, snoring drunkenly. There is an Ariadne-shaped empty space between them.\n\nAn empty jug lies on its side against a wall, abandoned where it stopped rolling. Just like the human occupants of the hut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Ariadne of Knossos, daughter of Minos, of the royal line of Pasiphaë the Sun-Maiden. At your formidable seventeen springtimes, you are an initiate priestess of the Isle of Aeaea, holiest of priestly orders of Potinaja, the Great Goddess.\n\nAnd right now you are not exactly at your brightest - hungover, hungry and naked after a deliciously rough night. But the poets don't need to know about your early years when they sing your praises for the centuries, do they?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are nude.\n\nYou are empty-handed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boys", "response": "The boys are snoring loudly. One of them is really worth it, the other one only passable in the mercilessly sober light of the morning. So they even out and it's fine. (You understate things. You always do. As befits a sophisticated lady of royal lineage.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine jug", "response": "It is a stylish round design with a small flat base, red clay with a striking black many-tentacled octopus. Such a modern and expensive model can only be imported from Crete and way above the means of a goatherder, so it was probably you who brought it from the palace.There lingers the faint perfume of fine wine, but it is completely empty. You probably had more than your fair share of it last night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "You lift the jug with one hand: unsurprisingly, it's empty. A pity - by the Goddess, you could use a drink. And some breakfast... Then your eyes catch the glint of something metallic. You squat again, screwing your eyes in the half-light. There was something behind the jug... a pin? It seems to be a sort of golden brooch. You can guess it was carefully hidden somewhere, until last night's whirlwind of men and clothes ended up with the little golden bauble thrown in a corner. Now this is a surprise...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the brooch", "response": "You take the brooch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brooch", "response": "You take a good look at it, from all sides. It is gold indeed, and the device is a lion sitting on its hind legs. You have no idea what it means, so at least it's not Cretan. Not from one of the great palaces, at any rate, or you'd know, but it is an expensive piece of art, and not from Aeaea either. Only the Goddess knows how it came into the hands of a rustic goatherder. Well, obviously it was the Goddess' will that you'd find it. It will look better on you anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the brooch", "response": "Wear it where? Pin it in your skin? This kind of jewelry without clothes is not just kinky, also painful. Better put on some clothes first, then wear the brooch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rack", "response": "A simple wooden platform to hold the meagre posessions of the goatherder. The only interesting ones are a loaf of bread and a pile of discarded pieces of clothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clothing", "response": "Someone undressed hastily here. You might have had something to do with the undressing. Or with the haste.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear clothing", "response": "(first taking pile of clothes)\nYour clothes should be somewhere around here. Now, let's think, you were wearing a tunic, right? If only you could remember where you left it... Rifling through the clothing (raw woollen shirts, leather pants, ragged boots) yields no result, except for a stench of sweat and seawater (now how do shepherds get wet with seawater? Are they so rustic that they bathe dressed?). You drop the lot with a weary sigh. Now where did you take off that bloody tunic, really?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bread", "response": "A hard piece of coarse, stale bread, perhaps adequate fare for shepherds but utterly unedible by humans.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "Feeling your stomach churning, you snatch away the piece of bread. Too much wine and no dinner, time you ate something solid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "The boys are lying on top of what probably was a nice and fluffy pile of straw a few hours ago. After last night's activities, the straw has been evenly spread through the hut and they are practically sleeping on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the bed", "response": "You have already done all you felt like doing with, and on, that bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Now that your vision has cleared a little, you take better stock of your surroundings. The hut is little more than a rough wooden shack, and the only furniture is a rudimentary rack on one side of the entrance. Most of the space is taken up by the... bed, if you could call it that. Two boys are sleeping there, snoring drunkenly. There is an Ariadne-shaped empty space between them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the floor", "response": "Girl, you are seriously confused this morning. Maybe time to cut down on the wine a bit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search boys", "response": "You have already done all you felt like doing to him/them last night. Possibly. Memories still a bit hazy, but you've had your fun. In any case, you feel like breakfast without conversation, so better get a move on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "Shielding your eyes against the light, you step outside. It takes you a few moments to adjust to sunlight, and your headache doesn't particularly like it. When you open your eyes again, the grand landscape of the Isle of Aeaea unfolds against a crisp blue morning sky.\n\nIn all directions, the hills climb up and down, reddish earth embroidered with dark green shrubs and a few small pine woods, sometimes broken by white, sheer rock. The land slopes downwards, from the cliffs in the west to the eastern beaches. The shepherd's hut is the only visible shelter. The isle narrows to the north and broadens to the south, where a few smoke columns indicate the location of the palace. The shepherd's hut is nearby.\n\nA herd of goats is roaming the pastures nearby, grazing on the short, tough grass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the goats", "response": "A nearby goat is breakfasting on something that looks like a piece of textile of some so... oh by the Goddess, it's your tunic! You try to shoo the beast, or frighten it in some way to discourage the munching of your clothes, but it seems to love the change in diet. Damn...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bread to the goat", "response": "You wave the bread in front of the stupid animal's eyes. Eventually you catch its attention, and it approaches and reluctantly stops chewing your tunic to munch on the bread.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tunic", "response": "You swiftly snatch away the tunic, lest the animal changes its mind. It's not exactly clean, and part of a shoulder seems to have been bitten off, but surely asymmetric shoulders must be the fashion in some faraway island? And it beats showing up naked in the palace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear tunic", "response": "You pull the tunic in place, and hold the torn shoulder while you pin it with the brooch, then smooth the torn edges under it. It holds, and possibly even adds a fanciful highlight to the otherwise plain garment. Can't wait to be ordained a full priestess and do away with these rags. Anyway, for the moment you are decent again, or decent enough to sneak back into the palace. And head straight for the kitchen, adds your rumbling stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tunic", "response": "Fine linen, fashionably pleated like the Egyptian girls from the Avaris chapter, but edged with embroidered dolphins and saffron crocus. It is one of the pieces Mother sewed for you before your departure for Aeaea (which is goatshit. Your know full well Mother could never sew to save her life.) The torn shoulder has been repaired with a flashy golden brooch, and the effect is rather fetching, if you do say so yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You really don't fancy going cross-country through these solitudes like a goat. Better do like a human and follow the clifftop path to the west, or go back inside the hut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "A narrow path on top of the cliffs follows the crescent shape of Aeaea. The isle's rocky arms stretch like the horns of a bull piercing the sea. The Saffron Bay occupies most of the view, sheer cliff faces the height of a hundred men plunging vertically into the waters below. The palace complex shines across the bay like white teeth on jagged, blackened gums.\n\nThe path clings to the clifftop, coming from the civilised south and stretching towards the sharp edge of the isle to the northwest. To the east lie the hilly scrublands frequented only by shepherds and goatherds. As you know full well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "Let us hope this is not what the poets will remember you for...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This is where the elegant curve of the Saffron Bay becomes wider and the downward slope is more benign. Most of the productive fields of the isle are around here, tended by peasants indentured to the palace, a few free settlers and scores of slaves. The olive trees, vineyards and farms of this side provide most of the local foodstuffs. The path follows the clifftop to the wild north and it becomes a proper paved road to the southwest, towards the entrance to the palace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The ceremonial road ends in an ample paved space before the grand entrance to the palace. Men and oxen come on go along the road like ants and mill around the vast plaza, transporting all manners of goods from the palace stores to the port below, overseen by administrative-rank priestesses and keen-eyed archers. The great complex is three stories high, fronted with a majestic row of crimson red and marine blue tapered columns.\n\nA couple of archers wink at you (old \"friends\", so to speak), and quite a few priestesses frown (older \"friends\", so to speak).\n\nThe ceremonial paved road snakes descends towards the southeast and the harbour. The palace lies west, blocking the view of the bay. A narrow path leads northeast, following the clifftops, towards the wilderness.\n\nWell, finally here you are. Now, if you can only slip unnoticed to the side wall that is never guarded, and just climb up to the first floor terrace, then it should be easy to...\n\n\"Why, if it isn't the wayward Ariadne!\" booms a female voice behind you, grating on your hungover brains.\n\nYou close your eyes, hard, taking an extra moment before turning around to face her. Oh sweet Potinaja, fair lady, let it not be old Circe...\n\nAnd the Goddess must have a perverse sense humour, because the offending lady is indeed not your aunt... but your sister.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sister", "response": "Your younger sister is considerably smaller than you, of slighter build, and is wearing the complete paraphernalia of a confirmed potnia - ruched and tiered red-and-blue longskirt, ceremonial apron, fitten open gilet and headdress. Her eyes and breasts are heavily made up with kohl and crushed coral. You used to look after her when she was just a bawling toddler... and now she has been ordained a potnia before you. Curses.\n\n\"Phaedra.\" you say, in an extremely friendly way. The sight of her is the very last thing you needed right now and... oh by the Goddess, what is she wearing?\n\n\"Oh, I can see you have noticed...\" she purrs in triumph. You roll your eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Phaedra", "response": "You take a deep breath for your next reply:\n\n\"What are you doing, all tarted up like that?\", you ask, trying to sound not at all taken aback.\n\n\"You watch that tongue when speaking to a potnia, dear\nsister, specially while you are still an initiate\", Phaedra\nsays, savouring each word. The realisation comes late to your fried brains: has she been ordained yet? Before you? But you're at least two springtimes her senior! And you shed first blood at more or less the same age, so...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Phaedra", "response": "You take a deep breath for your next reply:\n\n\"I see. Grovelling at Aunt Circe's feet has finally paid up\".\n\n\"Pay? Circe, like all us potnias, is just a conduit for the designs of the Goddess, praise be the fair Potinaja,\" she recites, doing a little dance around you, presumably to rub in the offence, \"And talking about payment, how does whatever you do pay? What a lovely brooch, sister. A little trinket from a client of yours?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "You take a deep breath for your next reply:\n\n\"Oh, sweet lady, does it come to this? Come, come, sister, be not so bitter\", you smile in sympathy, taking her arm sororally, \"Is it my fault no sane man was ever interested in you?\"\n\n\"Men, is that so?\" she brushes your hand aside \"I hear you sleep with goatherders.\"\n\n\"Oh, I hear you sleep with the goats.\"\n\n\"Oh very droll...\"\n\n\"Potinaja wept, you even got the rancid mannerisms...!\"\n\nHer eyes become linear slits, snake-like under the copious makeup. \"I shan't have you profer blasphemies, least of all in presence of a potnia. You shall go see Circe and send my regards...\"\n\n\"Oh, that I shall...\"\n\n\"...and if I do learn later that you have not, or have not used the proper formula and respect, I shall ask the High Priestess to have you seconded to my retinue, to do my hair and prepare the potions. Understood, initiate?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "You take a deep breath for your next reply:\n\nYou shut your mouth in time. Normally no priestess would be on a position to do that, but Phaedra is a royal as well, and of Pasiphaë's line, and her standing with your aunt is obviously better than yours. (Actually there are at least three slaves that Circe regards higher than she does you...). And then again, you'd sooner jump into the sea and try to make it back to Crete swimming than go through the humiliation of being your little sister's handmaiden.\n\n\"Understood.\"\n\n\"Understood what?\"\n\n\"Understood, my potnia.\"\n\n\"Oh, I am so loving the sound of that. I shall see you later, initiate, do make haste\", she sing-songs as she walks away. You pull a face at her back and quietly tell the Goddess how much you love little Phaedra.\n\nWell. Perhaps you really, really should have not stolen that toy crocodile when she was five.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The ceremonial road ends in an ample paved space before the grand entrance to the palace. Men and oxen come on go along the road like ants and mill around the vast plaza, transporting all manners of goods from the palace stores to the port below, overseen by administrative-rank priestesses and keen-eyed archers. The great complex is three stories high, fronted with a majestic row of crimson red and marine blue tapered columns.\n\nA couple of archers wink at you (old \"friends\", so to speak), and quite a few priestesses frown (older \"friends\", so to speak).\n\nThe ceremonial paved road snakes descends towards the southeast and the harbour. The palace lies west, blocking the view of the bay. A narrow path leads northeast, following the clifftops, towards the wilderness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the palace unchallenged by either priestess or archer patrols.\n\nThe main megaron is flanked with tapered red columns, centered around a central great hall that opens to two long wings. The western wing contains the workshops, stores and administrative dependencies. The north wing is mainly taken up with living quarters for priestess in the upper floors, and servants and slaves in the lower ones. But the definitive majestic piece of the megaron is the monumental gipsum stairway leading up, to the High Priestess' dependencies.\n\nThe megaron is in full swing, with dozens of priestesses of diverse rank coming and going about palace business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "The residence of the High Priestesses is less sumptuous than what you had imagined the first time. It is nevertheless the most luxurious room in the whole island, somewhat in spite of Circe herself. The focal point of the room is a great wooden table, strewn with a thousand little objects around a map.\n\nThe High Priestess is studying something intently at the great table, stopping only occasionally to gaze out of the window, never quite bothering to look in your general direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the map", "response": "It is surprisingly difficult to identify the landmasses. This one must be Aeaea; the bottom-heavy crescent is unmistakeable. Crete must be big and west of here, so it should be that vaguely rectangular block over there, with Knossos and Phaistos marked prominently and a dozen smaller palaces dotted around. South lies the Egyptian coast, so the symbol there must mark the position of Avaris. And far to the northwest, in the wastes beyond the sea, there's a cluster of black figurines. All of them are modelled in the likeness of a sitting lion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the circle", "response": "You are so lost it would take a big ball of twine to get you out of your confusion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Circe", "response": "You put your left fist to your left temple, performing the adoration gesture. Circe pays no attention to you. You ahem-ahem a little, still to no reaction from the High Priestess, so you just chatter away.\n\n\"My potnia, I come on behalf of my beloved sister...\"\n\n\"Now, that is a droll one\", she mutters, still not looking at you. She rereads a line from a tablet, then moves another figurine over the map.\n\n\"I bring my beloved sister Phaedra's respect and best wishes for the High Priestess, on the occasion of my noble sister's ordainment...\"\n\n\"I am sure you must be very proud of her, are you not?\", she says dryly.\n\n\"Very\" you reply with equal enthusiasm, \"As proud as if it was my own and belated induction into the Goddess' mysteries\", you drone on monotonously.\n\n\"Do I hear a complaint?\"\n\n\"Actually...\"\n\n\"Shut up, it's a rhetorical question. Because I hear many complaints every day, and quite a few have something to do with one of my nieces being somewhat unruly.\"\n\nBeing essentially a sensible young woman despite what certain uncharitable individuals might think, you let that one pass and force a smile.\n\n\"Anything else?\", she asks. You are biting your tongue, hard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"Auntie Circe,\" you try, affectionately \"when is my ordainment going to take place? I yearn to serve the Goddess and I am already old enough for the mysteries...\"\n\n\"Age has nothing to do with it, child,\" she interrupts, still contemplating her map, \"Maturity has. Just as some women shed first blood earlier, the Goddess blesses certain minds sooner than others...\"\n\n\"So the lesson today is patience...\" you sigh boredly.\n\n\"...and some she does not touch ever at all. What, patience? The Goddess and I have wasted ours with you, Ariadne.\"\n\n\"Auntie, I promise, if this is about the drinking and... uhm, merrymaking, I swear I shall just...\"\n\n\"Oh shut up, girl. What am I now, one of those bloody Lukkan puritans? Shut up, it's another rhetorical question. Merrymaking, the\ngoatshit one has to hear! Mark my words, I do not give a fig if you fuck each and every fisherman in Aeaea while drunk as an Alassian sailor...\"\n\n\"Auntie Circe...!\"\n\n\"...and don't you Auntie Circe me as if I was some senile\nspinster! What, scandalised? Oh, the irony! Listen, you might well despise your sister because she is a bit stupider than you (which is no small measure), or because she is quite insufferable (not to say you are not), or just because she is your sister, which is reason enough... Bugger me, did I hate your noble mother when we were your age, did I! And she was just like you, chasing men and women and whatnot, and the Goddess and I could not care less because she was also useful, and that is the whole point. Pasiphaë is and was useful, and thus she is Wanassa of Knossos. Your sister Phaedra doesn't have her political vision but she's fanatical and ruthless, and one day she shall be Wanassa of Phaistos. Now tell me, wench, what are you\ngood for?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "\"Is it another rhetorical question?\"\n\n\"Very, very droll\", Circe sighs, fingering one of the figurines on the map. \"An easier one, then. What do we export, here in Aeaea?\"\n\n\"Saffron and potnias?\"\n\n\"Very well. You might not be Wanassa material since you have no political wits... or an officiant priestess, given how obviously the Goddess chooses not to speak through you, but we might at least make a store administrator out of you yet.\"\n\n\"Stores?\" you gasp, horrified \"Sitting downstairs all day, counting measures of olive oil? Aunt, I'm begging you, send me back to Knossos rather than...!\"\n\n\"It was not a rhetorical question, girl. Dozens of palaces rely on us to provide suitable potnias as Wanassas,\" she says, making a broad gesture over the map, \"and we do deliver. I need not remind you who brokered your mother's marriage to the Wanax of Knossos, or why he and thirty other dinasties send me their daughters for education and ordainment. In due time, your sister will be Wanassa of Phaistos. The Wanax shall get a powerful priestess to take care of divine affairs while he wages wars. Your father shall get a reliable alliance. And the Goddess and I shall get an influent agent in southern Crete, same as Pasiphaë has been in the north coast for decades.\"\n\n\"I am still a royal of the Pasiphaë line, I can marry...\"\n\n\"Marry as you please. The world is full of bloody royals, do you know how many new siblings you've gotten since you came? Every petty warlord has two or three score bastards, and do you know what a nightmare genealogy has become? I should know, my father is the bloody Sun. Anyway. Princes and princesses are a fig a dozen. Potnias are scarce and precious. Should I send you back unordained, Minos would be offended and Pasiphaë's position weakened. I shall not undo the work of a generation for your sake.\"\n\nShe waves you away and concentrates on the maps, moving another of the lion-shaped thingies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lions", "response": "Your head is killing you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lion", "response": "A golden brooch representing a sitting lion, of unknown origin. You found it at the shepherd's hut, which is quite a mystery. Perhaps you should look into it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look athe lion-shaped thingies", "response": "Sweet lady Potinaja, what do you mean?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Circe", "response": "\"I shall prove to you I am useful to you and the Goddess.\"\n\nWithout looking up from her maps, Circe waves you away.\n\n\"Pray be not a nuisance, niece. Go do as you please but bother me no more.\"\n\nShe is obviously concerned with something, very much unrelated to your tribulations, and somehow related to the many lion-shaped figurines she keeps herding around the map.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the figurines", "response": "A black piece of stone. Obviously Circe is using them to signify some sort of kingdom or faction over her map. Each is shaped like a sitting lion. Now where have you seen that before?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the brooch to Circe", "response": "Holding the torn shoulder with your fingers, you undo the brooch and throw it on the table. It lands squarely among the black lion-shaped figurines, sending them on sudden expeditions across the sea. Circe looks up, startled.\n\n\"How dare you...?\", she starts.\n\n\"Answering your next, non-rhetorical question, I have my own sources, just like you, aunt dear. I thought this might interest you, since you seem so fond of little lion figurines.\"\n\n\"Do you know what this is?\" Circe says, as she takes the brooch and looks at it intently before staring back at you. \"Its meaning? Where does it come from?\"\n\n\"Let's see - yes, no, kind of. It's a brooch. I have no idea what it stands for. It comes from somewhere in the northern wastes, since you are piling all your toys there?\"\n\nThe High Priestess takes a deep breath, obviously pondering whether to discuss important matters with you. Finally, she sighs and looks away. Was that a little chuckle?\n\n\"Young Ariadne, what do you know about the Achaeans?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Circe", "response": "\"Achaeans. Northern barbarians, a few sad excuses for palaces. No fleet worth of the name. The only thing they are good at is making cheap copies of every piece of pottery Father sells them at outrageous prices. They are desperate for some culture. Are we sending them many potnias?\"\n\n\"Not a single one. They have their own unsavoury gods. And a very unsavoury new Wanax. With very, very unsavoury methods.\"\n\n\"You sound jealous, aunt.\" Circe waves a finger at you.\n\n\"Do not get cocky, child. If you have found this in Aeaea, and I can only imagine where or how, it might mean we have a little spy problem. Now, I do not have enough archers to keep a patrol on all shores at all times, and sending them to search every ship and warehouse in the harbour would alert the spy... So...\", she says, looking up and down at you with a critical eye.\n\n\"So\" you echo, tossing your hair dramatically, \"You got yourself a secret agent, auntie.\"\n\nShe hmphs. You smile. Then remember something.\n\n\"Ah, my potnia? On an unrelated note, can I have that brooch back? Holding this thing in place all day is tiring.\"\n\nThe High Priestess of Aeaea mutters something unpleasant about your generation while fumbling about her things, then slides a clay token over the table towards you, together with the brooch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the brooch", "response": "You take the Achaean brooch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the brooch", "response": "Are you still hungover? Do you think it is a good idea to hunt around for an Achaean spy while wearing this for all the world to see? Perhaps Circe was right about your true calling after all...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the token", "response": "You palm the little piece of clay gleefully. Circe is notoriously stingy with supplies.\n\n\"The price of saffron is down and imports are killing us, Ariadne.\" she says warily \"Take better care of your clothes from now on. And do not get anywhere near goats.\"\n\n\"By the Goddess, how do you...?\"\n\n\"I have been your age. Just avoid rumiants in general.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the token", "response": "A piece of fired clay, bearing three symbols - the glyphs for \"priestess tunic\", \"high quality\" and the personal seal of Circe. A requistion order for the palace stores, from the highest authority.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The residence of the High Priestesses is less sumptuous than what you had imagined the first time. It is nevertheless the most luxurious room in the whole island, somewhat in spite of Circe herself. The focal point of the room is a great wooden table, strewn with a thousand little objects around a map.\n\nCirce is looking at you, appraisingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "The main megaron is flanked with tapered red columns, centered around a central great hall that opens to two long wings. The western wing contains the workshops, stores and administrative dependencies. The north wing is mainly taken up with living quarters for priestess in the upper floors, and servants and slaves in the lower ones. But the definitive majestic piece of the megaron is the monumental gipsum stairway leading up, to the High Priestess' dependencies.\n\nThe megaron is in full swing, with dozens of priestesses of diverse rank coming and going about palace business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "The chambers are filled with the hustle of a few dozen workers carrying goods into our out of the stores. Slaves bring in copper ore and oil pithoi in carts, checked and accounted for by palace administrators. Throngs of artisans from the workshops bring their finished crafts for inspection, and receive clay tokens in exchange. This is a part of the palace you seldom visit willingily, except to pilfer some baubles or chat with your friend. If you don't manage to fulfil your quest, you might well be spending the rest of your days here... The mere idea makes you shiver.\n\nOne of of the administrator catches your eye. It's Satiah, one of your last friends. She nods slightly in your direction while she keepts doing calculations on her abacus and counting tokens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Satiah", "response": "Satiah is more or less your age. She has the darker skin that identifies her as coming from the Avaris chapter, which is somewhere in the Two Lands, on the delta of an incredibly big river, far to the south. She wears the full pleated linen favoured by admininstrative priestesses when they are not facing the public, decorated with the insignia of a mid-junior priestess - quite a promotion for accounting duty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Satiah", "response": "\"Why, bad girl Ariadne is back. What tidings, love?\", she greets, with her unmistakeable Egyptian lilt.\n\n\"Hey, Satiah. My sister is such a bitch.\"\n\n\"We have had this conversation already.\", she observes, looking at you sideways.\n\n\"Oh. So, you want to hear about last night? It was like a dream. I\nmet these two satyrs under the moonlight...\"\n\n\"And that one as well. You Keftius are like trained songbirds who only know two songs.\"\n\n\"Fine. You tell me about your fascinating adventures, then. How many measures of olives? Did someone, gasp, forget to record a few copper ingots? Tell me about your night of wild passion with your abacus.\"\n\n\"Ari, love, why are we always talking about men or pouring goatshit about other women? Can we not have a relevant conversation, like priestesses are supposed to? Do you reckon this is what the Goddess wants to discuss through us?\"\n\n\"I... never thought of it that way, honestly.\"\n\n\"Well, I mean not to offend, dear Ariadne, but perhaps that is one reason why you are still only an initiate at seventeen? While the rest of our year-sisters have their own shrines on the other shore of the Great Green? Even Phaedra is prancing around with rouged boobs and acting like she is Circe reborn.\"\n\n\"Oh, my hangover. Catch you later.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the token to Satiah", "response": "Satiah takes the token and gives it a cursory glance, then a double take.\n\n\"Aha. Somebody's connections are starting to pay off?\"\n\n\"Thank you for your kind words, Satiah. I am so glad I can share this very special moment with a good friend.\"\n\n\"All I am saying is,\" she shrugs, \"it is quite unusual to see two of these within the same day, both for nieces of the High Priestess. And I have been a witness to Phaedra's initiation in the third mysteries, but you I have not seen since you talked me into pilfering that wine jug for you.\"\n\n\"So I am working my way to ordainment a different way, does that make me a worse priestess than my dear, dear sister?\"\n\nSatiah smiles sympathetically, says nothing (because she is an amazing friend) and sends a slave for the goods (because she does not trust you alone in a room filled with valuable stuff). She inspects the garments when they arrive, nods and drops the token in the appropiate jar.\n\n\"All yours. And congratulations. You must have done something quite impressive, given your record, to impress the old girl so. Care to gossip about it, or you're too important now for your old friend, my potnia?\"\n\nYou give her a conspiratorial wink.\n\n\"Secret mission. High priesthood business. Can't talk\", you whisper in a mysterious and alluring way. Satiah tsk-tsks and shields her eyes in mock shock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\ntunic\n\nYou are carrying:\nan Achaean brooch\nwine jug (empty)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the garments", "response": "With the appropiate reverence, you take the ceremonial garments", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear garments", "response": "You should get rid of the tunic first, or it will look ridiculous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jug to Satiah", "response": "\"You did not smash it this time? Good. Keep it for now. If I take it I shall have to account for it and I am all out of pottery tokens. Call it inventories adjustment.\"\n\n\"I was not giving it back, Satiah. I was asking for a refill.\"\n\n\"Potinaja wept, Ari, you have a drinking problem.\"\n\n\"The boys drank almost all of it, I promised. Pretty please?\"\n\nShe frowns, calls one of her helpers and mutters some instructions in his ear. He takes the jug, disappears and brings it back after a while. Satiah smiles and hands it back to you.\n\n\"There.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The chambers are filled with the hustle of a few dozen workers carrying goods into our out of the stores. Slaves bring in copper ore and oil pithoi in carts, checked and accounted for by palace administrators. Throngs of artisans from the workshops bring their finished crafts for inspection, and receive clay tokens in exchange. This is a part of the palace you seldom visit willingily, except to pilfer some baubles or chat with your friend. If you don't manage to fulfil your quest, you might well be spending the rest of your days here... The mere idea makes you shiver.\n\nSatiah smiles at you from behind her desk, fingers flying on the abacus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The main megaron is flanked with tapered red columns, centered around a central great hall that opens to two long wings. The western wing contains the workshops, stores and administrative dependencies. The north wing is mainly taken up with living quarters for priestess in the upper floors, and servants and slaves in the lower ones. But the definitive majestic piece of the megaron is the monumental gipsum stairway leading up, to the High Priestess' dependencies.\n\nThe megaron is in full swing, with dozens of priestesses of diverse rank coming and going about palace business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The ceremonial road ends in an ample paved space before the grand entrance to the palace. Men and oxen come on go along the road like ants and mill around the vast plaza, transporting all manners of goods from the palace stores to the port below, overseen by administrative-rank priestesses and keen-eyed archers. The great complex is three stories high, fronted with a majestic row of crimson red and marine blue tapered columns.\n\nA couple of archers wink at you (old \"friends\", so to speak), and quite a few priestesses frown (older \"friends\", so to speak).\n\nThe ceremonial paved road snakes descends towards the southeast and the harbour. The palace lies west, blocking the view of the bay. A narrow path leads northeast, following the clifftops, towards the wilderness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the palace unchallenged by either priestess or archer patrols.\n\nThe main megaron is flanked with tapered red columns, centered around a central great hall that opens to two long wings. The western wing contains the workshops, stores and administrative dependencies. The north wing is mainly taken up with living quarters for priestess in the upper floors, and servants and slaves in the lower ones. But the definitive majestic piece of the megaron is the monumental gipsum stairway leading up, to the High Priestess' dependencies.\n\nThe megaron is in full swing, with dozens of priestesses of diverse rank coming and going about palace business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You start towards the living quarters, but you stop after a couple of steps. What's the point? You have already been caught, and in the worst of ways, so why pretend? Better carry on with your own business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take off the tunic", "response": "You shimmer out of tunic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear garments", "response": "You put on ceremonial priestly garments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A narrow path on top of the cliffs follows the crescent shape of Aeaea. The isle's rocky arms stretch like the horns of a bull piercing the sea. The Saffron Bay occupies most of the view, sheer cliff faces the height of a hundred men plunging vertically into the waters below. The palace complex shines across the bay like white teeth on jagged, blackened gums.\n\nThe path clings to the clifftop, coming from the civilised south and stretching towards the sharp edge of the isle to the northwest. To the east lie the hilly scrublands frequented only by shepherds and goatherds. As you know full well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "In all directions, the hills climb up and down, reddish earth embroidered with dark green shrubs and a few small pine woods, sometimes broken by white, sheer rock. The land slopes downwards, from the cliffs in the west to the eastern beaches. The shepherd's hut is the only visible shelter. The isle narrows to the north and broadens to the south, where a few smoke columns indicate the location of the palace. The shepherd's hut is nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the hut", "response": "Here you are, back in the hut. The boys are gone, it is marginally tidier than it was this morning, and there is still nothing but a wooden rack and a miserable bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rack", "response": "The rack is empty. No bread, no clothes (at a guess, the shepherds must be wearing them)... You stop for an instant, look at it twice. Wasn't it a bit further away from the wall, this morning? It might just be the shepherd boys tidying up after your tryst, or there might be another reason for pushing the rack against the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "The bedding has been half-heartedly remade after last night, but still consists of loose straw piled on the floor. You kick it around a bit, but you find no more brooches or anything else but dusty straw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the rack", "response": "You take both ends of the rack, plant your feet firmly on the ground and pull. It is not terribly heavy, and you manage to separate it a couple of handspans from the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rack", "response": "The rack is empty. No bread, no clothes (at a guess, the shepherds must be wearing them)... You stop for an instant, look at it twice. Wasn't it a bit further away from the wall, this morning? It might just be the shepherd boys tidying up after your tryst, or there might be another reason for pushing the rack against the wall. Pulling the rack away from the wall has revealed a small hole in the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hole", "response": "What a surprise, a small cache. Now this goatherders are much more mysterious than you thought.\nThe hole contains a small but finely made daidala.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine daidala", "response": "It is a little statuette of a bull, cast in bronze and lacquered in black, with lovingly carved ivory horns, small enough that it can stand on your open palm. The head is articulated, so that the horns can point up or down - either menacing, as during the ritual bulldancing, or towards the earth, in worship of the Goddess. Very, very clever, and so finely detailed it looks almost menacing. This belongs in a major shrine. You have very seldom seen works of similar craftsmanship... and all of them were tributes sent from your native Crete. You examine it carefully again. Yes, without the shadow of a doubt - this is no Achaean artifact. Only Cretan masters can produce such perfection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "Surprised, you take the statuette with careful fingers. What a place to find a holy piece. Really, what were these lads up to? Depending on its origin, they could be guilty of a most blasphemous crime.\n\nWell, well. Now you are really, really interested in having a conversation with those two. Where are they gone?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You examine the grass", "response": "The volcanic landscape of Aeaea is at its wildest here - not a flouncy-skirted priestess in sight, not a rumour of toiling workers or a flash of sunlight over a magnificient building, nary a word of praise for the Goddess except the calls of goats and the song of birds. Which is kind of pretty is you're that kind of person, but being a sophisticated lady and having spent ten years in Aeaea, you find it rather boring and unstimulating.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Here you are, back in the hut. The boys are gone, it is marginally tidier than it was this morning, and there is still nothing but a wooden rack and a miserable bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "The crescent of Aeaea narrows to a bullhorn-sharp point here and the clifftop resolves into a rocky chaos of crags plunging dramatically into foaming waters. From here you can see the whole curve of the Saffron Bay, steep as the edge of a cauldron, with the palace a miniature on the other side. Without even a single goat to feed on the thorny bushes, the only living presence is the gulls that circle overhead, looking for fish in the the clashing waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the olive trees", "response": "What can you say, the saffron fields produce most of the exports of Aeaea, and the rest of the fields are merely foodstuffs. Some fields are tended by slaves, property of the palace or of the settlers, and most of the free men are depend on the palace in one way or the other: some are indentuered workers, some are technically free but rely on bartering their produce for clay tokens only exchangeable for other stuff in the palace stores... Not that you care much for the boring details. Your interest in agricultural matters has always been quite low.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "The ceremonial road ends in an ample paved space before the grand entrance to the palace. Men and oxen come on go along the road like ants and mill around the vast plaza, transporting all manners of goods from the palace stores to the port below, overseen by administrative-rank priestesses and keen-eyed archers. The great complex is three stories high, fronted with a majestic row of crimson red and marine blue tapered columns.\n\nA few priestesses blink, then nod respectfully as they pass, eyeing your attire. A couple of archers almost stand at attention when they see you approach.\n\nThe ceremonial paved road snakes descends towards the southeast and the harbour. The palace lies west, blocking the view of the bay. A narrow path leads northeast, following the clifftops, towards the wilderness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The paved road snakes downhill towards the glistening blue waters. The beach on the southern tip hosts the only port in the isle, a collection of warehouses and shipyards clustered around the harbour. The air smells of salt, rotting seaweed and adventure. Burly longshoremen sing coarse shanties as they unload a merchant ship, while the palace indentured workers wait to cart the loads to the workshops in the hill.\n\nA dozen or so whores are pitching their wares to the sailors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the whores", "response": "They are gaudily dressed and most of them are girls. A couple of them have had the cheek to dress up in flouncy skirts and open bodices, in imitation of priestly garb. Such a near-blasphemy is indicative of their liminal status, for they are one of the collectives in Aeaea more loosely bound to the palace. As far as the High Priestess is concerned, they are legally free settlers and economically unnecesary for the Goddess, but also a natural element of the portuary facilities. Apart from helping in the harvest of saffron, which is the customary duty of all Aeaeans, their nominal allegiance to Circe boils down to their personal piety.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the whores", "response": "You approach the prostitutes, reasoning that they probably know each ship and sailor that moves around these parts.\n\nThe group falls into a respectful silence, turning and bringing fists to temples in the adoration gesture. A tall Peleset woman with her hair braided with red and blue thread meets your eyes levelly.\n\n\"My potnia,\" she says diplomatically, \"We are conducting business this side of the harbour as agreed, and not obstructing palace business in any way. We are all healthy and a moon ago we donated a...\"\n\n\"I am here on palace business indeed but not of that sort. Have you seen any Achaeans... err, northern barbarians? Long black hair, beards, helmets made of boar tusks? Mycenaeans, Tirynsians, Athenians?\"\n\n\"A lot of sailors fit that description, except for the helmets. And who can tell where they come from? In any case, my potnia, almost all our customers are foreigners, mostly Cretan and Alassian.\"\n\n\"Have you seen anyone wearing brooches shaped like lions?\"\n\n\"How do they look like?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the brooch to the whore", "response": "You show the lion brooch to the Peleset woman, whose eyes open wide as soon as she sees it.\n\n\"I have never seen a sailor wear such a thing...\", she starts, but you cut her off.\n\n\"Come on. You have seen it before! Lying to me is lying to the Goddess...\"\n\n\"...but as I was about to say, a man offered me one of those a few nights ago. Not this one, but a very similar one.\"\n\n\"And do you still have it? Who was that man, was he a northerner?\"\n\n\"Oh, I don't have it any more\", she says slowly, looking you in the eye, \"but I know where to find him.\"\n\n\"Lead me to him and you can keep this one as well.\"\n\n\"Thank you, most generous potnia. The man is a local, a shepherd or something. I had seen him many times, bringing milk and goatmeat to town and eyeing the girls. Obviously we were never interested in his custom, but as I say, he suddenly was very rich. I did not ask where he got that little brooch, but he said something about going fishing in the crags.\"\n\n\"Fishing in the crags... and say, are you feeling well these\ndays? No rashes or itches or blood in your urine?\"\n\nShe smiles and shakes her head. You silently praise the Goddess and, as agreed, let her have the brooch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sailors", "response": "A confusion of seamen, foreign captains in exotic clothing and toiling longshoremen. It would be an interesting spectacle if you did not have urgent matters to tend to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The ceremonial road ends in an ample paved space before the grand entrance to the palace. Men and oxen come on go along the road like ants and mill around the vast plaza, transporting all manners of goods from the palace stores to the port below, overseen by administrative-rank priestesses and keen-eyed archers. The great complex is three stories high, fronted with a majestic row of crimson red and marine blue tapered columns.\n\nA few priestesses blink, then nod respectfully as they pass, eyeing your attire. A couple of archers almost stand at attention when they see you approach.\n\nThe ceremonial paved road snakes descends towards the southeast and the harbour. The palace lies west, blocking the view of the bay. A narrow path leads northeast, following the clifftops, towards the wilderness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the palace unchallenged by either priestess or archer patrols.\n\nThe main megaron is flanked with tapered red columns, centered around a central great hall that opens to two long wings. The western wing contains the workshops, stores and administrative dependencies. The north wing is mainly taken up with living quarters for priestess in the upper floors, and servants and slaves in the lower ones. But the definitive majestic piece of the megaron is the monumental gipsum stairway leading up, to the High Priestess' dependencies.\n\nThe megaron is in full swing, with dozens of priestesses of diverse rank coming and going about palace business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The chambers are filled with the hustle of a few dozen workers carrying goods into our out of the stores. Slaves bring in copper ore and oil pithoi in carts, checked and accounted for by palace administrators. Throngs of artisans from the workshops bring their finished crafts for inspection, and receive clay tokens in exchange. This is a part of the palace you seldom visit willingily, except to pilfer some baubles or chat with your friend. If you don't manage to fulfil your quest, you might well be spending the rest of your days here... The mere idea makes you shiver.\n\nSatiah smiles at you from behind her desk, fingers flying on the abacus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Satiah", "response": "\"Tell me, Satiah, do you really like it here?\"\n\n\"Indeed I do. This palace might look like a rock, solid as the foundations of the earth, but it is actually dangling in a fine balance, always on a tipping point between copper ore coming in and finished goods coming out, saffron exported and meat imported, and the fluctuating number of mouths to nourish. The Goddess provides but it is up to us to keep her equilibrium or this isle would perish in a fortnight without us admin girls.\"\n\n\"What about traveling, serving overseas?\"\n\n\"Ariadne dearest, I am already serving overseas, remember?\"\n\n\"Oh, yes, you told me about Avaris. Sorry, I have a bull-sized hangover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Satiah", "response": "\"I have just had a conversation with our beloved High Priestess.\"\n\n\"And? Are you still a free woman?\"\n\n\"I have been told The World Is More Complicated Than I Know and also that I Play But a Small Part in It.\"\n\n\"Knowing Circe, it sounds surprisingly harmless. Anything troubling your mind?\"\n\n\"Have you seen or heard of any Achaeans around here?\", you ask casually.\n\n\"There used to be that girl, the straw-haired one? I think she was from somewhere up north? She was sent to Wilusha, assistant Wanassa, two springtimes ago maybe?\"\n\n\"Ah, yes. Nah, I was thinking more like traders, ambassadors, perhaps sailors? Do you get any trade from the northerners?\"\n\n\"Occasionally. Not recently. They almost never trade directly with\nus, I hear most of the commerce goes through your island of Keftiu, so you probably know more than I do, you Cretan know-it-all. And they would have no business here anyway, they are dealt with at the harbour, and good riddance. Potinaja save me from dealing with the maniacs at port authority.\"\n\n\"Thank you, Satiah.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the wine", "response": "Try again, this time making some sense.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are wearing:\nceremonial priestly garments\n\nYou are carrying:\nbull daidala\ntunic\nwine jug (full of water)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You drain it in a couple of long, greedy gulps. It does wonders to alleviate your hangover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jug to Satiah", "response": "Satiah grimaces and calls a worker to refill your jug, then hands it back to you again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine jug", "response": "It is a stylish round design with a small flat base, red clay with a striking black many-tentacled octopus. Such a modern and expensive model can only be imported from Crete and way above the means of a goatherder, so it was probably you who brought it from the palace.Satiah has made sure it was refilled... with fresh water. What a party pooper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Satiah", "response": "\"What tidings, Ariadne?\n\n\"Secret stuff. Anything suspicious happening around here?\"\n\n\"Just a Sherden trader screwing the Goddess on the saffron-pottery exchange rate, but nothing that would interest an important agent of the High Priestess like you. Let us have a jug tonight and talk, shall we?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The main megaron is flanked with tapered red columns, centered around a central great hall that opens to two long wings. The western wing contains the workshops, stores and administrative dependencies. The north wing is mainly taken up with living quarters for priestess in the upper floors, and servants and slaves in the lower ones. But the definitive majestic piece of the megaron is the monumental gipsum stairway leading up, to the High Priestess' dependencies.\n\nThe megaron is in full swing, with dozens of priestesses of diverse rank coming and going about palace business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You start towards the living quarters, but you stop after a couple of steps. What's the point? You have already been caught, and in the worst of ways, so why pretend? Better carry on with your own business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ascend", "response": "The residence of the High Priestesses is less sumptuous than what you had imagined the first time. It is nevertheless the most luxurious room in the whole island, somewhat in spite of Circe herself. The focal point of the room is a great wooden table, strewn with a thousand little objects around a map.\n\nCirce is looking at you, appraisingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Circe", "response": "\"So where shall I begin?\", you ask in a conspiratorial tone. Circe rolls her eyes.\n\n\"Last time I had this sinking feeling the earth shook and it rained ash for a moon.\"\n\n\"Aunt?\"\n\n\"Well, get properly dressed, but remember it is not an official ordainment but a temporary promotion, just for this mission.\" She starts putting the figurines back in place \"Then possibly try and trace back the origin of that brooch? Further investigate the place where you found it? Track whoever gave it ti you? Ask questions discreetly to the right people? Seduce men and suss out their secrets? Sweet lady Potinaja, ask me not about complicated matters of intrigue, I am but the elderly High Priestess of Aeaea. You youngsters have it all figured out, surely. I shall just stay here and play around with my strategic toys while you do the Goddess' will.\"\n\nYou make the adoration gesture again, this time with a slight smile, and get ready to go. A secret mission for the High Priestess, no less! Time to prove your mettle... and avoid ending up as a bloody clerk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the daidala to Circe", "response": "\"Look what I found\", you say, putting the daidala on the table. Circe looks puzzled for a second.\n\n\"Where have you gotten that from? Ariadne, I expect you not to use your mission as an excuse to commit sacrilegious actions...\"\n\n\"It was among the possessions of a suspected Achaean agent. But it is clearly not Achaean. I suspect it was stolen from a shrine in Crete, which is probably not beneath the barbarians, but why bring it here?\"\n\n\"And then again, why bring something as incriminating as the brooch? Perhaps we are dealing with a particularly stupid spy, or perchance it is a different matter. Whatever the case, if sacrilege is involved we need solve it more than ever, Ariadne. Pursue that lead. Find your man.\"\n\n\"I shall, my potnia.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The crescent of Aeaea narrows to a bullhorn-sharp point here and the clifftop resolves into a rocky chaos of crags plunging dramatically into foaming waters. From here you can see the whole curve of the Saffron Bay, steep as the edge of a cauldron, with the palace a miniature on the other side. Without even a single goat to feed on the thorny bushes, the only living presence is the gulls that circle overhead, looking for fish in the the clashing waves.\n\nAnd then there's the goatherd, with no goats in sight, looking quite out of place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at goatherd", "response": "Well, at least he is the handsome one of last night's duo, a swarthy square of a man, all straight lines and coiled muscle under tan skin. He's wearing boots and loincloth and carries bag. He's looking around shiftily, as if looking for a way to escape... or maybe get rid of you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the goatherd", "response": "The man meets your eyes with a jolt, then does a double take. You see the doubt in his eyes for an instant and smile warmly, just in case he's thinking of escaping. Or giving you a little nudge over the cliff.\n\n\"Why, if it is not my favourite goatherder. I never thought you would be so difficult to get. Considering.\"\n\nHe starts off with some remarks about last night that you might find rudely enticing if you didn't know him to be an Achaean spy.\n\nAnd a sacrilegious thief of holy daidala, for good measure.\n\n\"So what are you doing in these solitudes all by your own? Should you not be tending to your herd?\"\n\nHe looks one way and the other, scratches his head and ahem-ahems for a while, until you suggest that maybe he's fishing in the\ncrags? He nods, then stops and looks at you (you let nothing show\non your face), licks his lips, then nods again vigorously. \"Why, aye, fishing! Indeed!\".\n\nWithout a line or a hook, of course. And then there's that metallic clink every time he shifts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "\"So what were you fishing?\"\n\n\"Pretty girls, and look, it worked!\"\n\nYou roll your eyes, but not so much that you don't keep a watch on him. He's trying to goatshit his way out of this one? Fine, then you'll need to confront him with solid proof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the daidala to the goatherd", "response": "\"So where did you fish this one?\", you say, holding the statuette high. He looks horrified. You press on:\n\n\"And I know about the brooch too, and the whole lot of them. And the High Priestess does as well, in case you were thinking of a little accident. Now, confess, and I shall make sure she is merciful with you. How long have you been an Achaean spy?\n\n\"Ah-aka... what is an Akayan? And I'm no spy! I know nothing, I-I just...! the goats...! I thought you, you and I...\n\n\"Cut the goatshit. Where did you find this? And the brooch? Confess or you shall know Potinaja's wrath!\"\n\n\"D-downstairs!\"\n\nYou blink, watching out for any ruse. He gestures downwards with his head, towards the cliffs. You nod. Carefully, he moves towards a few thorny bushes and moves them aside.\n\n\"There is a path down the cliff.\"\n\n\"Guide me. You go first.\"\n\nHe sighs, nods and disappears down the hidden passage, looking just as if he was sinking into the tangle of thorns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You find the secret way behind the bushes and carefully descend.\n\nTaking a deep breath, you navigate your way through the narrow passage. A few steps ahead of you, the shepherd beckons. The passageway is little more than an excavated slope for a few paces, and then it merges into a natural cavern, open on one side to a vista of the northern seascape. You follow the man along the zigzagging open cavern, descending down the face of the cliff, until you reach a tiny pebble beach at the foot of the crags. As far as you can see, there is nothing but open seas ahead. Behind you, Aeaea is a continuous wall of sheer rock, uninterrupted except for this small beach. It is scarcely twenty strides wide... and its main feature is a huge warship, wrecked against the rock on the western side of the beach.\n\nSweet Potinaja. This is something Circe would kill to know. Hopefully not literally.\n\nThe goatherd is pacing up and down the narrow beach, looking shifty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the warship", "response": "You approach the wreck carefully. The bow third is a mess of splintered wood, smashed against the rocks, the rest more or less intact. A couple of dead bodies, presumably from the ship, are stranded on the pebbles. The ship itself is long, single-masted, sleek and probably rode low over the water. Definitely not a Cretan merchant ship - more like a barbarian warship.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bodies", "response": "The corpses are both bloated and whitish, having spent many days at sea. You take a look at the nearest one. It is a man, that much you know, with a sword hung from a tasseled shoulder belt. The weapon is of good quality and northern make, so you are looking at an Achaean officer, may the Goddess have mercy on his heretic heart. You grimace. A ship this size carried more warriors, obviously, perhaps thirty or forty. Perhaps most of them were swept to the sea in the gale, or jumped out in terror, or died here on the beach and were thrown back into the ocean by whoever found the wreck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the goatherd", "response": "\"You see, my potnia, me and my friend found this last new moon, and though we tried to save the sailors...\"\n\n\"Goatshit\", you interrupt, turning towards him with a dramatic flourish, \"You tricked them into running aground, surely with some lamps. Do you expect a potnia to believe this Achaean warship just happened to shipwreck here, on the only beach in the whole coast, on a moonless night, and in the only spot where you and your mate would be able to loot their ship?\"\n\n\"Well...\"\n\n\"Don't answer, you fool. It's what we priestesses call a rhetorical question.\"\n\n\"Actually, maybe it is a gift from the Goddess herself...\"\n\n\"Don't you explain the Goddess to me, man, I'm a bloody potnia! So you pulled out your little trick, not that I mind because they were Achaean scum anyway, and then tried to sell the stuff in town. You made just one mistake - bedding me! I do not mean that as a literal mistake, mind you. But when you mess with Ariadne, secret agent of the High Priestess...\"\n\n\"Please, holy Ariadne...!\"\n\n\"Oh, shut up. Circe will be certainly interested in these shipwrecked Achaeans, she does give not a fig for thieving goatherders. But you should have told me in the first place.\"\n\nYou take one last good look around. Being pretty sure you have learned all there was to discover here, you say a brief prayer to the Goddess - to guide the dead northerners to her underground realm, even if they scarcely deserve it. The goatherd stands respectfully at attention, although there is no way he can understand your oration, delivered in your native Cretan.\n\nOut of the corner of your eye, you see something stir among the rocks! And the goatherder has seen it as well, because he jumps scared, thinking it is one of the corpses rising. Being an initiate in the first mysteries, you go investigate, intoning incantations against the wrath of the dead.\n\nBut the boy is not quite dead. He is a young one, of perhaps eleven or twelve years old, barely standing on his two feet, reeking of seawater and malnutrition. He collapses as soon as you reach him.\n\n\"Go fetch help!\", you order, and the goatherder disappears towards the passage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boy", "response": "A boy or eleven or twelve, dressed according to Cretan fashion, with taste and a touch of distinction. Not at all what you would expect to find in an Achaean wreck! Perhaps he was a prisoner? The kidnaped son of some Cretan great, held for ransom, as a guarantee of some peace? You need to interrogate him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the boy", "response": "\"Boy, do you speak Cretan? Do you hear me?\", you try to shake him awake, but he's too delirious with thirst.\n\n\"...ther... sorry, Father... shouldn't have... are coming... Minos... shouldn't... coming... coming for... should... Father... the bull...\"\n\n\"Hold on, boy. I shall get you some water.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jug to the boy", "response": "You tilt the jug so that the boy can drink - it takes a few tries in his state. Little by little, he regains consciousness. He looks at you, frightened, so you smile as warmly as this crazy day allows.\n\n\"I am Cretan like you, and a potnia. You are safe with me, boy. What is your name and how come you where aboard an Achaean warship?\"\n\n\"My-my name is Icarus\", he says, making a feeble attempt at an adoration gesture, \"and my father was...\", and there he clams up, opening his eyes wide and looking at you with a suspicious expression. You tsk-tsk.\n\n\"I am not one of them. My name is Ariadne, and I am the daughter of the Wanassa of Knossos, whom you surely have heard of. So what about your father?\"\n\n\"Hmph. He's a fisherman.\"\n\n\"Sure she is, and I am a talking dolphin in disguise. See my fins? I was swimming around today, minding my own dolphinic business and blam, I came upon that wreck and said, what about having this little boy for breakfast...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Icarus", "response": "\"So where did the Achaeans get you?\"\n\nHe thinks about it for too long. He's making it up.\n\n\"At Phaistos. While we... I was trying to board a ship.\"\n\n\"You and your father? Who is he? Is he the reason you were captured... and trying to board a ship? Were you both on the run? Why?\"\n\nHe stammers a little, then pretends to faint.\n\n\"Come on, Icarus. I am not a friend at all of the awful men that got you. Did they get your father as well? Let me guess, he is an important man in Crete, am I right? A lagawetes, perhaps? A commander?\"\n\n\"A fisherman, like I said, from Phaistos.\"\n\n\"Goatshit. You have the Knossos accent, Icarus, and your skin is too white and soft for the son of a fisherman, not to mention your clothes. Your hands look rough, though... is he a great artisan? Oh, I know. Perhaps a maker of beautiful objects?\"\n\nHis eyes go wide in fear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "He is keeping his mouth shut, but you know full well there is something more here. Perhaps you can refresh his memory... with a little memento from his father.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Icarus", "response": "You chat a little with the boy as you walk your way back to the palace. He is still reserved and wary of saying too much, but you gather a few juicy hints here and there. His father got enmeshed in some kind of intrigue with Mother, and Father was not amused. Both are in good health. You have four new siblings, four brothers and a sister. There was an earth-shake two years ago, but the damages were very minor, and it ceased as soon as three bulls were sacrificed. Gortyn burned to the ground (all good, you never liked Gortynians).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The crescent of Aeaea narrows to a bullhorn-sharp point here and the clifftop resolves into a rocky chaos of crags plunging dramatically into foaming waters. From here you can see the whole curve of the Saffron Bay, steep as the edge of a cauldron, with the palace a miniature on the other side. Without even a single goat to feed on the thorny bushes, the only living presence is the gulls that circle overhead, looking for fish in the the clashing waves.\n\nThe shepherd has opened a narrow downwards passage through a few thorny bushes.\n\nIcarus arrives from below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "A narrow path on top of the cliffs follows the crescent shape of Aeaea. The isle's rocky arms stretch like the horns of a bull piercing the sea. The Saffron Bay occupies most of the view, sheer cliff faces the height of a hundred men plunging vertically into the waters below. The palace complex shines across the bay like white teeth on jagged, blackened gums.\n\nThe path clings to the clifftop, coming from the civilised south and stretching towards the sharp edge of the isle to the northwest. To the east lie the hilly scrublands frequented only by shepherds and goatherds. As you know full well.\n\nIcarus arrives from the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is where the elegant curve of the Saffron Bay becomes wider and the downward slope is more benign. Most of the productive fields of the isle are around here, tended by peasants indentured to the palace, a few free settlers and scores of slaves. The olive trees, vineyards and farms of this side provide most of the local foodstuffs. The path follows the clifftop to the wild north and it becomes a proper paved road to the southwest, towards the entrance to the palace.\n\nIcarus arrives from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The ceremonial road ends in an ample paved space before the grand entrance to the palace. Men and oxen come on go along the road like ants and mill around the vast plaza, transporting all manners of goods from the palace stores to the port below, overseen by administrative-rank priestesses and keen-eyed archers. The great complex is three stories high, fronted with a majestic row of crimson red and marine blue tapered columns.\n\nA few priestesses blink, then nod respectfully as they pass, eyeing your attire. A couple of archers almost stand at attention when they see you approach.\n\nThe ceremonial paved road snakes descends towards the southeast and the harbour. The palace lies west, blocking the view of the bay. A narrow path leads northeast, following the clifftops, towards the wilderness.\n\nIcarus arrives from the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You enter the palace unchallenged by either priestess or archer patrols.\n\nThe main megaron is flanked with tapered red columns, centered around a central great hall that opens to two long wings. The western wing contains the workshops, stores and administrative dependencies. The north wing is mainly taken up with living quarters for priestess in the upper floors, and servants and slaves in the lower ones. But the definitive majestic piece of the megaron is the monumental gipsum stairway leading up, to the High Priestess' dependencies.\n\nThe megaron is in full swing, with dozens of priestesses of diverse rank coming and going about palace business.\n\nIcarus arrives from the outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "Circe looks up and blinks hard, twice. You smile your Competent Niece and Even Better Potnia smile and fill her in with the facts of your investigation, only embellishing slightly. As like how you fought to death two of the Achaeans who were still alive (you are resolute!), or the time you invoked the Goddess to reveal the identity of the boy (the Potinaja obviously wants you ordained!).\n\nCirce listens with something like excited exasperation, then sends you out while she grills Icarus.\n\nYou take advantage of the situation to go fetch some breakfast, at long last. You come across Phaedra, and have a grand time prancing in your priestly finery while she watches incredulously. Halfway through the tale of how you are performing secret missions for the High Priestess, she runs away in an undignified rage. Finally, the day is starting to look up.\n\nThat evening just before sunset, Circe sends for you.\n\n\"Well, well, perhaps the Goddess has found a way to speak through you...\", she says.\n\n\"She needed some help in doing so, but I really cannot blame her, auntie. I was quite out of voice this morning.\"\n\n\"...and if you would just shut up for a while and kneel down, I shall recite your ordainment invocation. Tonight you shall be brought to the sacred cave and initiated in the third mysteries, and so please the Goddess, by daybreak you shall be a full priestess, worthy of the regalia.\"\n\n\"My potnia...\"\n\n\"And then\", she adds, with a harsh edge in her voice, \"we shall talk, Ariadne.\"\n\nShe turns towards the last rays of the setting sun, and frowns, as if watching the setting of a different sun.\n\n\"We shall talk about what must be done to save Crete.\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Science Fiction" ]

[ "cover art", "IF Competition 2006", "IFComp Game", "laboratory setting", "male protagonist", "replay puzzle", "science fiction", "SF", "single puzzle", "space station", "time travel", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2006" ]

[ 3, 15, 8, 5, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "\"Attention! Attention! We have arrived on station. Drop Team\nBeta: Review your mission profile and report to Primary Transport Room.\"\n\nDrop Team Beta - That means you.\n\nDamn.\n\nMöbius\n\n(First time players should type \"about\".)\n\nYou must have dozed off for a few minutes; you had only meant to lie down for a few seconds between tasks. Hopefully no one saw you, since sleeping on duty will land you in the brig.\n\nSitting up, you are relieved to find that you are alone in your quarters.\n\nYour Quarters (on your rack)\nYour sparse quarters barely merit description. The gray metal bulkheads remain bare since you haven't even had the energy to hang pin-ups. The standard sleeping rack rests against one wall, across from the standard work desk holding your sidearm and your Tactical Display Unit.\n\nYou would really like to get away from here for a while, away from the your team members who clearly despise you.\n\nThe hatch to the passageway is to the port side (commonly called west by the rank and file not concerned with the long traditions of the Galactic Marines).", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at Unit", "response": "The Tactical Display Unit (TDU) is a small binocular unit which fits over your eyes and displays critical mission information. It incorporates the standard communications array which can be used to contact the ship and other teammates during a mission. It is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it on", "response": "You stumble to your feet, retrieve your TDU, and put it on, activating it automatically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "That's already on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mp", "response": "You access the profile on your TDU:\n\nWe have received a distress signal from scientists involved in project Möbius. We have been unable to establish further communication. Drop Team Beta is instructed to transport to the project's laboratory to investigate. The team will provide medical and technical assistance as needed.\n\nThe project is studying the creation of various temporal distortions (further details classified per Statute MSC-1316). Damaged equipment may result in the release of multitemporal radiation, so all TDUs have been configured to monitor radiation levels.\n\nDrop team should take minimal gear: TDU, sidearm, and basic specialty-specific equipment.\n--- End Mission Profile ---\n\nGood. This mission shouldn't be too bad, and since your only specialty is security you won't even have to trudge to the armory for equipment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "The desk is the usual all-purpose workspace, but since you try to avoid working here it is currently just a storage space for your sidearm. A small tag on the side says \"Titaniumcase\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the desk", "response": "The desk has no drawers; it is essentially a slab of metal with legs.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The usual quarters: bulkheads, sleeping rack, desk holding your sidearm. The hatch to the passageway is to the port side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sidearm", "response": "You retrieve your sidearm from the desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "It is a standard anti-personnel energy weapon, fully charged (as per regulation).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rack", "response": "Your rack is just a utilitarian bunk. You probably couldn't fall asleep on it except for all the extra work they make you do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You open the hatch and step out into the passageway, remembering (of course) to close the hatch behind you.\n\nThe passageway outside your quarters resembles all passageways in the Solaris: dull, clean, functional. Like all Scout ships (and\nother government projects) it was designed without any unneeded amenities, like comfort. The head is directly across from your quarters, while the armory, mess, and other useful places are aft. The rest of your team has quarters along this section (while Drop Team Alpha is located nearer to the bridge). The Primary Transport Room is forward from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You brace yourself and step into the transport room.\n\nThe main focus of the room is the transport pad, which covers most of the floor. The transport is controlled remotely, to help prevent unauthorized use. A few monitors and diagnostic equipment surround the pad, but otherwise the room is empty.\n\nSergeant Jacobson is staring at you impatiently. Behind him you see Medic Davis giving his medical kit a final inspection and Specialist Thorne adjusting his technical sensor settings.\n\n\"So you finally decided to show up, eh Private?\" the Sergeant sneers at you. You are the last to arrive, naturally. \"Have you read the mission profile?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "\"You will address me as Sergeant!\" barks the Sergeant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y sergeant", "response": "\"Finally, the jackass is ready. Ok, let's get ready for transport! Watch the MRL readings; we'll transport back if they become critical.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"Communications check... Good, TDU communication is functioning. Remember not to shoot the scientists...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Jacobson", "response": "The sergeant's jaw is as as hard as his ass. He is giving the final mission briefing.\n\n\"Begin transport sequence.\"\n\nThe transport begins. At least scientists won't be shooting at you, or, at any rate, they're probably not very good shots...\n\nAfter the usual brief nauseating sensations, you regain your composure and look around.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nYou're glad you weren't in here during whatever happened to this place. The walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYou are the first to be transported, as always, in order to make sure that the area is secure. If you are still alive in a minute or two, the rest of the team should join you.\n\nbeen configured to monitor radiation levels.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the head scientist", "response": "Grotesque burns cover her face, which may have been attractive. She is in slightly better condition than her clothing, but will not survive long without help. She clutches a metallic rod in one fist, stretched out toward the reactor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rod", "response": "The absorbing rod is a dark metal, and very heavy for its size. You have seen absorbing rods and cones (apparently identical except for their shape) used in reactors to absorb radiation emissions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Reactor", "response": "The reactor is a large cylinder slightly larger than you. It has clearly been damaged, and glows brightly in a way that you are sure it shouldn't. Radiation shielding covers the outside and looks like it can be opened for access.\n\nIt's strange that the rest of your team hasn't arrived yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the assistant", "response": "He is younger than the scientist, though disfiguring burns make this a bit uncertain. You guess he will be dead in half an hour without care. His lab coat seems essentially unburned; if it had been buttoned the rest of him might have fared as well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take coat", "response": "You're only trained for security; you should contact the ship before taking any action.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rod", "response": "You manage to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Reactor", "response": "An angry beep from your TDU warns you of intense radiation buildup in the temporal reactor shielding; since you do not want to die, you decide not to touch it.\n\nYou can't possibly handle this by yourself. What the hell happened to the rest of the team?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "The cabinet has no seams or handles; there is no obvious way to open it.\n\nWith a deafening Boom! the temporal reactor finally goes\ncritical and explodes.\n\nYou look around, surprised that you are not dead. Not even hurt, as far as you can tell. In fact, you seem to still be in the laboratory, which looks much as it did when you first transported here.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nOne thing is different: Another marine is standing here, looking around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the marine", "response": "He looks exactly like you, with the same red uniform, and carries his sidearm and his TDU.\n\nThe other marine looks closely at the head scientist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the coat", "response": "The lab coat is mostly white, with a blue trim at the cuffs. The coat must be heat resistant to have survived (like most Marine uniforms). The assistant must do the dangerous work, since the scientist is not wearing any protective gear.\n\nThe other marine looks closely at the reactor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search cabinet", "response": "The emergency cabinet is a solid metal panel set into the wall, with no apparent seams or handles.\n\nThe other marine looks closely at the technical assistant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the array", "response": "The video and audio input panels are still recognizable, but most of the communications array has been burned away. Presumably the scientists sent their distress call before the destruction happened.\n\nThe other marine tries to communicate on his TDU.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine transporter", "response": "(the personal transporter)\nThis transporter is a smaller version of the ones used by Marine ships, and is suitable for transporting a single person. This is apparently the only way of accessing the lab, and unfortunately has been damaged beyond use.\n\nThe other marine manages to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "The table is made of highly polished metal, now scraped and discolored. Among the wrecked equipment you can see a partially burned notebook, a wrench, and a radiation damper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the notebook", "response": "This seems to be a record of the Möbius Project's results. Much of\nthe\nnotebook is burned, but you can make out a few fragments. The scientists seem to be trying to create loops in time, allowing several versions of an object to exist simultaneously. Apparently there have been problems, involving unduplicated objects being pulled into one part of the loop. These objects remain visible, but can not be touched. The temporal reactor also seems to have become unstable.\n\nThe rest of the fragments are technical jargon, much beyond your comprehension.\n\nThe other marine tries to communicate on his TDU.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the damper", "response": "The radiation damper is a thick magnetized box with a pulse switch on the front. It can safely be attached to a radiated metallic object and then activated, emitting a brief intense pulse which temporarily neutralizes radiation which has built up on the surface of the object.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nYou seem to have survived the explosion again, but it seems to be causing some sort of loop in time. The other marine must be a previous version of yourself.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the self", "response": "Your uniform is a bit creased, but fortunately no one has disciplined you for this yet. Otherwise, you look the same as always.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the lab coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the damper", "response": "The radiation damper emits a happy beep, then makes a faint sizzling sound before growing quiet.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the emergency cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Reactor", "response": "You touch the temporal reactor, and quickly pull your hand back in pain. Although no longer radiated, the temporal reactor is still intensely hot.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the head scientist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the coat", "response": "You manage to pull the coat off of the assistant without hurting him more.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the communications array.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Reactor with the coat", "response": "You probably need to wrap the lab coat around your arm or something first.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the personal transporter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wrap the coat around the arm", "response": "You wrap the lab coat around your arm.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the utility table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Reactor", "response": "Möbius\nAn Interactive Twist by J.D. Clemens", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Reactor", "response": "Identification number: //F4AC2E84-CAF7-4FC0-8D48-DAA23392ACFE// Standard interpreter 1.0 (6b) / Library serial number 060709\nStandard Rules version 1/060430 by Graham Nelson\nMenus by Emily Short\nCase Management by Emily Short\nChanged Implicit Action by Emily Short\nBasic Screen Effects version 2 by Emily Short\nLocksmith version 2 by Emily Short\n\nYour hand protected by the lab coat, you manage to open the reactor shielding, leaving a faint shadow of the previous shield. Just inside the opening you can see a small receptacle, which looks like it is meant to hold a small rod or cone.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the notebook.\n\nThat's already open.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the radiation damper.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coat", "response": "Your hand merely passes through the lab coat.\n\nYour previous self retrieves the radiation damper from the utility table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rod", "response": "You manage to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.\n\nYour previous self attaches the radiation damper to the reactor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at himself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self activates the radiation damper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n(You could also simply wait for death.)\n\nYour previous self touches the reactor, and quickly pulls his hand back in pain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self manages to pull the coat off of the assistant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self wraps the lab coat around his arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self manages to open the reactor shielding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put rod in the Reactor", "response": "The temporal reactor is closed.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nThe lab is restored again. Although you are enjoying the peace away from your ship, the exploding reactor is starting to become tiresome.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for the death", "response": "You settle in and wait.\nYour previous self's hand passes through the space where the lab coat once was.\n\nYour previous self manages to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.\nHe now unsuccessfully tries to insert something into the closed reactor.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nYou are back where you started. Maybe you need to put something in the reactor to absorb the radiation.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coat", "response": "You manage to pull the coat off of the assistant without hurting him more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wrap the coat around the arm", "response": "You wrap the lab coat around your arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Reactor", "response": "As you are about to touch the temporal reactor, you are seared by the intense radiation which has built up in it; you quickly lose consciousness.\n\nAlthough you do not witness it, you assume that the reactor exploded again.\n\nYou are back where you started. Maybe you need to put something in the reactor to absorb the radiation.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rod", "response": "You manage to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.\n\nYour previous self retrieves the radiation damper from the utility table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self attaches the radiation damper to the reactor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the damper", "response": "Your hand merely passes through the radiation damper.\n\nYour previous self manages to pull the coat off of the assistant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self wraps the lab coat around his arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n(You could also simply wait for death.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on damper", "response": "Your hand merely passes through the radiation damper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the rod", "response": "You drop the absorbing rod on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rod in the Reactor", "response": "The temporal reactor is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rod in the Reactor", "response": "The temporal reactor is closed.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nYou are back where you started. Maybe you need to put something in the reactor to absorb the radiation.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self manages to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the damper on", "response": "The radiation damper emits a happy beep, then makes a faint sizzling sound before growing quiet.\n\nYour previous self's hand passes through the space where the radiation damper once was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coat", "response": "You manage to pull the coat off of the assistant without hurting him more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wrap it around the arm", "response": "You wrap the lab coat around your arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Reactor", "response": "Your hand protected by the lab coat, you manage to open the reactor shielding, leaving a faint shadow of the previous shield. Just inside the opening you can see a small receptacle, which looks like it is meant to hold a small rod or cone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self's hand passes through the space where the radiation damper once was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self unsuccessfully tries to insert something into the closed reactor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Reactor", "response": "The shield of the reactor is open, revealing a central chamber too bright to study. A small receptacle sits empty just inside the opening; it looks like it is meant to hold a small rod or cone.\n\nYour previous self unsuccessfully tries to insert something into the closed reactor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self unsuccessfully tries to insert something into the closed reactor.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nYou are back where you started. Maybe you need to put something in the reactor to absorb the radiation.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for death", "response": "You settle in and wait.\n\nYour previous self retrieves the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nThen he attaches the radiation damper to the reactor.\n\nA moment later he activates the radiation damper.\n\nNext he manages to pull the coat off of the assistant.\n\nHe now wraps the lab coat around his arm.\n\nAfter that he manages to open the reactor shielding.\n\nHe then looks closely at the reactor.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nYou are back where you started. Maybe you need to put something in the reactor to absorb the radiation.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it on", "response": "The radiation damper emits a happy beep, then makes a faint sizzling sound before growing quiet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rod in the Reactor", "response": "You insert the absorbing rod into the receptacle; this should control the radiation once the shielding is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close Reactor", "response": "You close the reactor shielding; hopefully the reactor is now safe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You contact the ship", "response": "There is still no reply.\n\nA bright but silent explosion appears from the reactor, and then all goes black.\n\nYou are back in the lab, which looks much as it did when you first beamed in, but your previous self is still here. You're sure you fixed the reactor, so something else must be going on.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine panel", "response": "The control panel is closed, but hinges at one edge and a small gap at the other suggest that you could open it. Presumably the reactor controls are inside.\n\nYour previous self retrieves the radiation damper from the utility table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "An angry beep from your TDU warns you of intense radiation buildup in the control panel; you hesitate before touching it.\n\nYour previous self attaches the radiation damper to the previous reactor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wrench", "response": "You retrieve the wrench from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self activates the radiation damper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the panel", "response": "As you are about to touch the control panel, you are seared by the intense radiation which has built up in it; you quickly lose consciousness.\n\nAlthough you do not witness it, you assume that the reactor exploded again.\n\nAnother explosion. Maybe there is a previous version of the reactor, just like there is of you.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the control panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it on", "response": "The radiation damper emits a happy beep, then makes a faint sizzling sound before growing quiet.\n\nYour previous self retrieves the wrench from the utility table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the panel", "response": "You touch the control panel, and quickly pull your hand back in pain. Although no longer radiated, the control panel is still intensely hot.\n\nYour previous self touches the control panel, and quickly pulls his hand back in pain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coat", "response": "You manage to pull the coat off of the assistant without hurting him more.\n\nYour previous self touches the control panel, and quickly pulls his hand back in pain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it on the arm", "response": "You wrap the lab coat around your arm.\n\nYour previous self's hand passes through the space where the lab coat once was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the panel", "response": "Your hand protected by the lab coat, you manage to open the control panel, revealing two buttons.\n\nYour previous self reaches for the previous reactor and is seared by the intense radiation built up in it; he slumps to the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at buttons", "response": "(the control panel)\nInside the control panel you see two buttons, one labeled \"Reactor Shield\" and the other \"Emergency Cabinet\".\n\nThe radiation damper is attached to the control panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Cabinet", "response": "In the cabinet you see a first aid kit, a rations patty, a mini blaster, and an absorbing cone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cone", "response": "The absorbing cone is a dark metal, and very heavy for its size. You have seen absorbing cones and rods (apparently identical except for their shape) used in reactors to absorb radiation emissions. The rod shape is the more recent model; cones are primarily stored as backups now.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nHere again. Maybe you need some help from your previous self.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wrench", "response": "You retrieve the wrench from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self attaches the radiation damper to the control panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the panel with the wrench", "response": "The wrench merely passes through the control panel.\n\nYour previous self manages to pull the coat off of the assistant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYour previous self manages to open the control panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put rod in Reactor", "response": "You insert the absorbing rod into the receptacle; this should control the radiation once the shielding is closed.\n\nAs you withdraw your arm, you feel your skin blister from the radiated shielding; you feel like you are about to collapse.\n\nYour previous self looks closely at the emergency cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self manages to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the damper on panel", "response": "You attach the radiation damper to the control panel, being careful not to get too close.\n\nYour previous self retrieves the wrench from the utility table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it on", "response": "The radiation damper emits a happy beep, then makes a faint sizzling sound before growing quiet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it on Reactor", "response": "You need to remove the radiation damper from the control panel first.\n\nThe wrench, held by your previous self, passes through the space where the control panel once was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You remove the damper from the control panel.\n\nThe wrench, held by your previous self, passes through the space where the control panel once was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for the death", "response": "(You could also simply sleep.)\n\nYou settle in and wait.\nYour previous self's hand passes through the emergency cabinet button.\n\nYour previous self somehow reaches through the control panel and presses the reactor shield button and you see the faint shadow of the previous shield slide open.\nAfter that he inserts the absorbing rod into the receptacle of the previous reactor and is blistered by the radiated shielding.\nNext he somehow reaches through the control panel and presses the reactor shield button and you see the faint shadow of the previous shield slide closed. Hopefully his version of the reactor is now safe.\n\nHe then succumbs to radiation exposure and collapses.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nYou are back where you started. Maybe there is something besides the absorbing rod which can fix the reactor.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for death", "response": "You settle in and wait.\n\nYour previous self retrieves the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nHe then attaches the radiation damper to the control panel.\n\nHe now activates the radiation damper.\n\nNow he removes the damper from the control panel.\n\nAfter that he attaches the radiation damper to the previous reactor.\n\nThe temporal reactor finally goes critical and explodes again.\n\nYou are back where you started. Maybe there is something besides the absorbing rod which can fix the reactor.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You settle down for a nap, hoping this will all go away.\n\nAlthough you do not witness it, you assume that the reactor exploded again.\n\nYou are back where you started. Maybe there is something besides the absorbing rod which can fix the reactor.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self settles down for a nap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the damper", "response": "The radiation damper emits a happy beep, then makes a faint sizzling sound before growing quiet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coat", "response": "You manage to pull the coat off of the assistant without hurting him more.\n\nYour previous self retrieves the radiation damper from the utility table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wrap the coat around the arm", "response": "You wrap the lab coat around your arm.\n\nYour previous self attaches the radiation damper to the control panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the panel", "response": "Your hand merely passes through the control panel.\n\nYour previous self activates the radiation damper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the panel", "response": "Your hand merely passes through the control panel.\n\nYour previous self settles down for a nap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Press emergency", "response": "(the emergency cabinet)\nYou are unable to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cone", "response": "You retrieve the absorbing cone from the emergency cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open Reactor", "response": "As you are about to touch the temporal reactor, you are seared by the intense radiation which has built up in it; you quickly lose consciousness.\n\nAlthough you do not witness it, you assume that the reactor exploded again.\n\nYou are back where you started. You still haven't gotten the reactor fixed in both sides of the loop.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You settle down for a nap, hoping this will all go away.\n\nAlthough you do not witness it, you assume that the reactor exploded again.\n\nYou are back where you started. You still haven't gotten the reactor fixed in both sides of the loop.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour previous self is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self settles down for a nap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it on", "response": "The radiation damper emits a happy beep, then makes a faint sizzling sound before growing quiet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rod", "response": "You manage to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.\n\nYour previous self attaches the radiation damper to the control panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rod in Reactor", "response": "You insert the absorbing rod into the receptacle; this should control the radiation once the shielding is closed.\n\nAs you withdraw your arm, you feel your skin blister from the radiated shielding; you feel like you are about to collapse.\n\nYour previous self settles down for a nap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nYour previous self somehow reaches through the control panel and presses the emergency cabinet button and the cabinet slides open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it on Reactor", "response": "You attach the radiation damper to the temporal reactor, being careful not to get too close.\n\nYour previous self manages to pry the rod out of the scientist's hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it on", "response": "The radiation damper emits a happy beep, then makes a faint sizzling sound before growing quiet.\n\nYour previous self somehow reaches through the control panel and presses the reactor shield button and you see the faint shadow of the previous shield slide open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coat", "response": "You manage to pull the coat off of the assistant without hurting him more.\n\nYour previous self inserts the absorbing rod into the receptacle of the previous reactor and is blistered by the radiated shielding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "You put on the lab coat. Now if you just had a helmet, some gloves, and a thick lead box you would be safe from explosions.\n\nYour previous self somehow reaches through the control panel and presses the reactor shield button and you see the faint shadow of the previous shield slide closed. Hopefully his version of the reactor is now safe.\n\nThen he succumbs to radiation exposure and collapses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the coat on the arm", "response": "You wrap the lab coat around your arm.\n\nYour previous self somehow reaches through the control panel and presses the reactor shield button and you see the faint shadow of the previous shield slide closed. Hopefully his version of the reactor is now safe.\n\nThen he succumbs to radiation exposure and collapses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open Reactor", "response": "Your hand protected by the lab coat, you manage to open the reactor shielding, leaving a faint shadow of the previous shield. Just inside the opening you can see a small receptacle, which looks like it is meant to hold a small rod or cone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cone", "response": "You retrieve the absorbing cone from the emergency cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in Reactor", "response": "You insert the absorbing cone into the receptacle; this should control the radiation once the shielding is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close Reactor", "response": "You close the reactor shielding; hopefully the reactor is now safe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nInstead of the reactor exploding, you feel a strange twisting...\n\nAlthough you do not think that the reactor exploded, you find yourself back in the original laboratory. Yet things feel different somehow.\n\nMöbius Laboratory\nThe walls and most of the equipment are charred and twisted, including the communications array and a personal transporter. A utility table is still bolted to one wall, next to a small cabinet labeled \"For Emergency Use Only\".\n\nThe central feature is a large cylindrical machine, with the words \"Temporal Reactor\" stenciled on the front. A closed control panel protrudes from the wall next to the reactor.\n\nThe head scientist and her assistant are lying on the floor near the reactor, severely burned and unconscious. They will certainly die without immediate medical help.\n\nYour other self seems to have disappeared.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the damper", "response": "You retrieve the radiation damper from the utility table.\n\nA shimmering catches your attention, and to your relief you see the rest of your team finally arrive.\n\n\"I see you haven't managed to kill yourself yet,\" the sergeant sneers at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nMedic Davis quickly assesses the scientist and the assistant. Seeing that they need critical care, he calls for an immediate transport and all three disappear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nSpecialist Thorne rushes over to the reactor and attaches a sensor. After studying the sensor, he pulls out another gadget and connects it to the reactor.\n\n\"Luckily I have the right equipment to fix this,\" he informs the sergeant. \"Otherwise it would probably have gone critical and exploded.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAfter adjusting some settings, Thorne activates the gadget, which makes several beeps before quieting. Thorne looks pleased, retrieves his devices, and nods to the sergeant.\n\n\"I heard about a guy who got caught in a temporal explosion once. He and the reactor got stuck in a loop and the repair crew had to figure out how to repair both versions of the reactor. Worse, protocol seemed to require that they retrieve both copies of his body, which was a real pain.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"All right,\" barks the sergeant, \"I think we're done here.\" Activating his TDU, \"Transport control: Drop Team Beta ready for retrieval.\"\n\nA moment later you feel the usual dizzying sensation...\n\nFortunately, this transport is much less eventful, and you find yourself back aboard the Solaris. You had actually begun to\nenjoy the solitude of the lab, but you resign yourself to the drudgery and contempt that surely awaits. You decide not to tell any of your shipmates about your experience, since they probably wouldn't believe you, but at least you know that you were able to single-handedly fix a reactor and escape a temporal paradox.\n\nDuring your ordeal you experienced twenty-three time loops, making you about 3 hours and 50 minutes older than your twin brother (if you had a twin brother).", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Humor" ]

[ "beach", "cave", "cover art", "fourth wall", "gender-neutral protagonist", "humor", "I7 source available", "Inform 7", "investigation of human mind", "parser", "surreal" ]

[ 3, 18, 15, 4, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "I know, I know I know, we're gonna be late. But here's the thing: I'm in a coma. Yeah.\n\nAnd my brain has put together this bizarre fantasy world, to try and keep me sane, or protect my fragile psyche from the trauma of⦠whatever the coma is about, and I can't wake up until I escape from the dream-world. And that's gonna take a while, because I am really comfortable. I mean in the dream-world and also in the real world, right here.\n\nSo I don't have a lot of incentive. To wake up, I mean.\n\nSo I don't have a lot of incentive. To wake up, I mean.Well, if you're gonna be so stubborn about it, you can come in the dream-world and solve all the extremely symbolic puzzles and \"rescue\" me from my delusions. I guess it's only fair to let you try.\n\ndelusions. I guess it's only fair to let you try.But hold on. I said hold on! Let me think of a name. For the dream-world. It has to be sufficiently fantasy-sounding, but it also has to be obviously symbolic of something. Hmm.\n\nsymbolic of something. Hmm.Okay, I've got it.\n\nsymbolic of something. Hmm.Okay, I've got it.## Nautilisia\nA bizarre and whimsical dream-world steeped in pseudo-Jungian symbolism, by Ryan Veeder\n\nYeah, it's a stupid name, but it's the best I can come up with.\n\nOkay, so you start out in this stately manor. It's like stately Wayne manor, in that it's on top of a hill, and it's very expansive and full of expensive things, but there's no labyrinthine cave system underneath it. There's even a big grandfather clock in here, that symbolizes punctuality, but it doesn't tell the time. Because it's a dream!\n\nYou can go outside by going south. Just because it's a dream doesn't mean there aren't still compass directions. Work with me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look like yourself. Don't overthink it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clock", "response": "There aren't even any hands! Or numbers! The face of the clock is just a spinning, spiraling shape, and when you look at it you realize that time is meaningless.\n\nThere's also that chamber underneath the face, where they keep the pendulums.\n\nIn the big grandfather clock are some zig-zaggy pendulums.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pendulums", "response": "There's two of them, and they're made out of this white iridescent substance. And they're in a weird shape, like, a zig-zag shape. They're basically two long white zig-zags.\n\nThey're just hanging there inside the clock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the clock", "response": "Okay so you open up the clock and there are these two pendulums inside. I don't know how they work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pendulums", "response": "You pick up the zig-zaggy pendulums.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wave them", "response": "You look ridiculous waving the zig-zaggy pendulums.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel the pendulums", "response": "The pendulums have a mechanical smoothless and angularity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste pendulums", "response": "Man, how does eating stuff even work in dreams? Can you taste in a dream?\n\nThis reminds me of that joke about the guy who dreamed he was eating a big marshmallow and when he woke up his pillow was gone. But I don't think there's any actual food items in this dream.\n\nActually, that gives me an idea. Here: You taste the zig-zaggy pendulums, and in accordance with the deranged dream-logic of tastes, the zig-zaggy pendulums taste like bananas.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pendulums in the clock", "response": "You put the zig-zaggy pendulums into the big grandfather clock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pendulums", "response": "There's two of them, and they're made out of this white iridescent substance. And they're in a weird shape, like, a zig-zag shape. They're basically two long white zig-zags.\n\nThey're just hanging there inside the clock.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "It's like stately Wayne manor, in that it's on top of a hill, and it's very expansive and full of expensive things, but there's no labyrinthine cave system underneath it. There's even a big grandfather clock in here, that symbolizes punctuality, but it doesn't tell the time. Because it's a dream!\n\nYou can go outside by going south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the pendulums", "response": "You pull on the pendulums and they detach, almost as if you were meant to carry them around with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take them", "response": "You already have those.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the expensive things", "response": "You better not screw around with those expensive things too much. They're pretty expensive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clock", "response": "No, you can't go running around the stately manor. I don't have the creative energy to decide what's in there. Just pretend there's a curse or something on the rest of the manor, and the curse is keeping you from going to any rooms other than the one you're in. If you want to leave, you can go south.\n\nNo, you don't get it. This clock is huge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "As you exit the manor and symbolically shed the shackles of civilization, the sweet summer wind blows like a piccolo song across your weathered brow.\n\nSo, from up here in front of the stately manor, you can see all the rest of the island, which I don't know if I've mentioned this yet but my dream world has taken the form of an island. To your right, which is west of you if you're facing south, is a thick jungle, with leaves that are deep greens and purples in their colors. It symbolizes the terror and the wonderment of the unknown. But it is impenetrable to you from where you're standing.\n\nDown the hill to the southwest is a white sandy beach. I'll tell you what it symbolizes when you get there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nThe sweet summer wind is still blowing like a piccolo song.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The gulf that this enchanted beach envelops is itself enchanted, or ensorcelled, with a magical glamour which makes\neveryone who sees it want to just sit around and take a break for once in their lives. It symbolizes taking a break for once in your life. Only you are able to resist this enchantment, because you alone are so incredibly uptight about getting stuff done all the time and being on time for things.\n\nBack to the northeast is the hill, and over to the west is that dark, scary jungle.\n\nA little ways out into the water is a white ship, pitching and yawing on the restless sea.\n\nA Siren is here, sitting and singing on a coral reef.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jungle", "response": "The jungle is thick, and leafy. It represents... what did I say it represented? Maybe danger?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Siren", "response": "A Siren is actually supposed to be a bird-woman, I guess, but I want this sea-maid to be more like a mermaid. From the hips down she is one hundred percent fish, but from the fish up she is one hundred percent woman, with long, streaming hair.\n\nAnd she's singing a song, but it's not like she's gonna hypnotize you or anything. She's not evil. She symbolizes the beauty that can be found in life if you don't take everything so seriously all the time\n\nShe's wearing a girdle, which is kind of a curvy belt kind of thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "A hollow voice puts its hand over your mouth and says \"Shush!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the girdle", "response": "The Siren's girdle is a pale, opalescent belt thing, pulled snug around her waist. It is the only thing she's wearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boat", "response": "Apparently wrecked here on the shallow reef. It's white, and shiny, like something out of a dream. I mean, it literally is in this dream that I'm describing to you right now. It symbolizes... Actually, go in there first; give me a second to think about this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "The Siren sings in what might be a Romance language, or might be random dream-syllables: \"Seré una ola. Seré la luna. He sido\ntodo,\nsoy yo.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You paddle out toward the white ship.\n\nWhen you are inside the ship, you realize that it symbolizes loneliness. Specifically, loneliness brought on by being an artist, which all artists suffer from deep inside their souls. This is the ship of pearl, which painters sail into the seas of paint, and which sculptors sail across seas of clay, and of marble, searching for the distant moorages of inspiration. I could keep going, but you don't seem to be as into this as I am so I guess I'll stop.\n\nThe interior of the ship is lit by a pale, eerie luminescence.\n\nIt looks like whatever painter or poet who piloted this craft last left their leather trunk in here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trunk", "response": "A large leather trunk, scratched and pitted by the slings and arrows of being lugged all over the place for years and years. It symbolizes mystery. The mysterious initials OWH are inscribed on top.\n\nIt has a big lock thing on it, but no keyhole: Instead, there's just two depressions in the front, in the shape of the astrological symbol for Aquarius. See? Symbolism.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trunk", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pendulums in the depressions", "response": "You insert the pendulums into the depressions, and they click into place. The pendulums were the symbol for Aquarius all along, and the symbol was the key to the trunk! You solved the mystery!\n\nThe trunk opens, revealing a wreathèd horn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the horn", "response": "You pick up the horn from the trunk; it has a strange weight to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the horn", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\nIt's a huge conical, spiral shell of the type you often find on islands, like in that book, Animal Farm. Wait, that's not it.\nThat wasn't even on an island. What book am I thinking of?\n\nIt looks like somebody has already drilled a hole in it for you to blow into.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the horn", "response": "You put your ear up to the wreathèd horn, and as if by magic you hear the soft sighing of a person in a coma, waiting to be awoken. Or maybe you're just hearing the noise of your own blood vessels, multiplied in the conical natural echo chamber. Since this is a magical dream world, it could be either one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste horn", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the wreathèd horn tastes like Bavarian cream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the horn", "response": "It's a huge conical, spiral shell of the type you often find on islands, like in that book I can't remember. Shoot, what was it?\n\nIt looks like somebody has already drilled a hole in it for you to blow into.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the horn", "response": "It's a huge conical, spiral shell of the type you often find on islands, like in... Oh! Lord of the Flies. I knew I'd\nremember it eventually.\n\nIt looks like somebody has already drilled a hole in it for you to blow into.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow horn", "response": "You start to blow into the horn, but the tremendous sound that emerges is too much for you to handle. It symbolizes the conclusion of the individuation process, which, if attained prematurely, would result in a psychological short-circuit. What I'm saying is, this is not the time or place for unleashing the power of the horn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You leave the ship and swim back toward the shore.\n\nThe gulf that this enchanted beach envelops is itself enchanted, or ensorcelled, with a magical glamour which makes\neveryone who sees it want to just sit around and take a break for once in their lives. It symbolizes taking a break for once in your life. Only you are able to resist this enchantment, because you alone are so incredibly uptight about getting stuff done all the time and being on time for things.\n\nBack to the northeast is the hill, and over to the west is that dark, scary jungle.\n\nA little ways out into the water is a white ship, pitching and yawing on the restless sea.\n\nA Siren is here, sitting and singing on a coral reef.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen siren", "response": "The Siren smiles and says hello. She is extremely helpful and would love to tell you about anything you want to ask her about.\n\nI only understood you as far as wanting to listen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Siren about herself", "response": "She smiles. She says she's doing just fine, thanks for asking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Siren about Nautilisia", "response": "\"You have to understand,\" explains the Siren, \"After you solve all the puzzles, the dream will be over. It's in the nature of dreams, to end. And when the sleeper awakens, Nautilisia will be gone... only the memory of this dream land will exist in the waking world.\n\n\"But someday, you might recall this island... That memory must be the real Nautilisia.\"\n\nShe smiles. \"I stole that speech from a video game.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Siren about the girdle", "response": "\"Do you like it?\" she asks. \"I got it on Etsy for like sixteen bucks.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Siren about horn", "response": "When you bring up the wreathèd horn, the Siren's eyes go wide. \"That horn is an artifact of tremendous psychic potential!\" she whispers. \"Either that, or it symbolizes psychic potential.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Siren about the beach", "response": "The Siren says she isn't crazy about sand. You can't blame her, really. Sand is annoying sometime.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "The Siren sees you digging and freaks out. \"Great!\" she yells. \"Dig it! Dig it! Dig to the center of the earth!!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine coral", "response": "Coral is super scratchy, you know that? It cuts you open and then the saltwater gets in there and it stings like a mother. This dream coral symbolizes the fundamental painfulness of existence.\n\nI guess I don't know why the Siren is sitting on it then.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Siren about the gulf", "response": "The Siren looks out to the sea and sighs. \"This island symbolizes a lot of things,\" she says. \"A lot of things.\" She sighs again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the coral", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the coral", "response": "Don't start with that stuff. Nautilisia is a safe place, a peaceful place. Play along a little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "When you start singing, the Siren glares at you and starts singing louder. So you stop singing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "You hop up in the air, but are unable to stay aloft. I've never been able to fly in a dream, so I'm deciding you can't fly either.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "Your dancing is abominable! Quit ruining my dream-world!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "No, I'm already asleep. A person in a coma is always asleep basically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss siren", "response": "The Siren isn't the type to get all sexy on you unprovoked, but since you decided to initiate things, the Siren goes ahead and rocks\nyour world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss siren", "response": "When you move in for some more action, the Siren does that thing where she pulls her head away at the last moment. So annoying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hair", "response": "(the long streaming hair)\nHer hair is black. Long and black and wet. It's all the more black for its being wet.The strands are all tangled up after a long day of swimming around, though, and she seems a bit frustrated at this.\n\nBut I can't decide whether her hair should cover up her boobs or not. I mean, maybe it's not very important, but I'm getting hung up on it anyway. For now I'm gonna say it covers up... neither boob.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boobs", "response": "As you gaze upon the Siren's boobs, which apparently the Siren does not mind you doing, I am going to decide whether they're covered up by her hair or not. It's not a completely arbitrary question, you know. This kind of detail does a lot to determine the overall tone of my dream world.\n\nI'm gonna say... just the left boob is covered up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the left breast", "response": "Oh, come on. Let's be mature, okay? Just say \"boobs.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boobs", "response": "As you gaze upon the Siren's boobs, which apparently the Siren does not mind you doing, I am going to decide whether they're covered up by her hair or not. It's not a completely arbitrary question, you know. This kind of detail does a lot to determine the overall tone of my dream world.\n\nI'm gonna say... both boobs are covered up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Brush hair", "response": "Which do you mean, your hair or the long streaming hair?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Yeah! Yeah, exactly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "No?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I keep forgetting what this jungle is supposed to symbolize. I think it was intrigue. The branches, heavy with purple leaves, lean down toward you in a vaguely threatening way. It's a scary experience, but it's also kind of exciting. That's the fun of being in a coma-induced dream world.\n\nA rough path through the vegetation leads from the gulf to the east to a clearing in the northwest.\n\nA long vine hangs from the trees, swaying like a snake in front of your face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine vine", "response": "It dances hypnotically before your vision. It's a symbol of risk. You have to take risks, see? Otherwise you can't get anywhere in life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the vine", "response": "After giving a little resistance, the vine falls to the ground, dislodging something from the branches in the process.\n\nWhen the entire length of the vine has fallen, it turns into a giant green snake, which slithers off into the jungle. That snake symbolizes the horrible things that can happen when you take risks.\n\nThe thing you dislodged finally hits the ground. It's a shell, a venus comb. That thing could have killed you!\n\nYou see what happens when you take risks?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine comb", "response": "It's a seashell, spiral in shape and conical in form, but it's covered in dozens of long, skinny spines, like a hairbrush designed by H.R. Giger. It symbolizes beauty as a desirable but fundamentally dangerous aspect of experience.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shell", "response": "(the venus comb)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You comb the hair", "response": "The venus comb pokes your hand something fierce, but it straightens your hair out nicely. When I say \"your hand\" and \"your hair\" I mean \"your dream-hand\" and \"your dream-hair,\" obviously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The gulf that this enchanted beach envelops is itself enchanted, or ensorcelled, with a magical glamour which makes\neveryone who sees it want to just sit around and take a break for once in their lives. It symbolizes taking a break for once in your life. Only you are able to resist this enchantment, because you alone are so incredibly uptight about getting stuff done all the time and being on time for things.\n\nBack to the northeast is the hill, and over to the west is that dark, scary jungle.\n\nA little ways out into the water is a white ship, pitching and yawing on the restless sea.\n\nA Siren is here, sitting and singing on a coral reef.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You comb long hair", "response": "As you approach her hair with the dangerous shell, the Siren's eyes go wide.\n\n\"Is this what I think it is? Where on earth did you find this? Well, anyway, thank you.\"\n\nShe takes the comb from you and immediately starts brushing her hair.\n\n\"I suppose it's customary to repay you somehow, right? Well, here.\"\n\nShe takes off her girdle, which dream-logically turns into... something else, I guess, and hands it to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na Siren's girdle\na wreathèd horn", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the girdle", "response": "Now that she's not wearing it, the Siren's girdle has turned into more of a two-dimensional curvy H shape, like a crude drawing of a girdle being worn around an hourglass waist. It's still pale and opalescent, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "I keep forgetting what this jungle is supposed to symbolize. I think it was the unknown. The branches, heavy with purple leaves, lean down toward you in a vaguely threatening way. It's a scary experience, but it's also kind of exciting. That's the fun of being in a coma-induced dream world.\n\nA rough path through the vegetation leads from the gulf to the east to a clearing in the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "This is an open area in the jungle, symbolizing the eye of the\nstorm. It isn't the center of the jungle, but it's the center of\nyour experience at this point in time. It's like the guy says: Wherever you go, there you are.\n\nThe path leading back into the jungle is southeast of here, but to your north is a rock wall, carved with a curious design.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the design", "response": "It's a carving, a depression kind of thing, in the shape of the astrological symbol for Pisces.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the girdle in the carving", "response": "The girdle, which was all along the symbol for Pisces, fits perfectly into the slot on the wall. Both of them dissolve into a silver mist. You overcame the dream logic and defeated the puzzle!\n\nThis is my favorite one, by the way. Because I'm a Pisces. Anyway, good job.\n\nIt turns out that behind the rock is a huge cave.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This is an open area in the jungle, symbolizing the eye of the\nstorm. It isn't the center of the jungle, but it's the center of\nyour experience at this point in time. It's like the guy says: Wherever you go, there you are.\n\nThe path leading back into the jungle is southeast of here, but to your north is the mouth of an awesome-looking cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You have finally found your way to the Caves of Thought. This cave represents thought, and thinking. There are stalactites and stalagmites and that kind of thing, but the area has been kept mostly empty, so as not to distract from your meditations as you approach the center of the island.\n\nThe tunnel continues to the northeast, but if you want you can return to the light and air of the clearing to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the echo", "response": "(to yourself)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "This cave represents deep thought. See, there are always deeper levels of thought. Getting really deep in thought is a necessary step on the path to self-attainment. So, keep going.\n\nThe way out is southwest, but the deeper caves are to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stalactites", "response": "I actually don't remember the difference. Stalagmites might... They might something. Man, this is gonna keep me up all night. Or it would, if I wasn't in a coma.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "I know, it probably seems like there are too many sections in this cave. I totally understand why you would feel that way. But having a bunch of caves like this is a necessity. It's called\n\"pacing.\" Just trust me.\n\nEven deeper caves are to the south; the less deep caves are west of here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Danke Schoen, darling, Danke Schoen,\nThank you for all the joy and pain...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Okay, okay, here for once is something more interesting than just more caves.\n\nAt this curve in the tunnel, the east wall is made up of a bunch of rocks. I mean, the whole place is made out of rocks, but these rocks are smaller and... rubblier.\n\nThe cave continues to the north and southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste rocks", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the wall of rocks tastes like glue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rocks", "response": "You pull out one of the rocks from the wall. The rest of the rocks immediately fall down in a big pile.\n\nBut then: a rush of air! A shaft of light! You've uncovered a path to the surface. Nice job!\n\nLet's say this symbolizes an act of mutual recognition between your conscious and unconscious minds. I mean, my conscious and unconscious minds. Either way, good going.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Here's the place in the tunnel where there's an exit to the surface instead of an east wall.\n\nThe cave continues to the north and southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "So, from up here in front of the stately manor, you can see all the rest of the island. An entrance has opened into the caves beneath the jungle to the west of you.\n\nDown the hill to the southwest is a white sandy beach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "It's like stately Wayne manor, in that it's on top of a hill, and it's very expansive and full of expensive things, but there's no labyrinthine cave system underneath it. Well okay, I guess actually there turned out to be a labyrinthine cave system underneath it,\nsorry to disappoint you.\n\nThere's even a big grandfather clock in here, that symbolizes punctuality, but it doesn't tell the time. Because it's a dream!\n\nYou can go outside by going south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Sorry, this is another room where there isn't really anything going on. I swear I'm not doing this just to frustrate you.\n\nI know sometimes it seems like I'm doing stuff just to be annoying, but I always have a good reason. I mean, I always think I\nhave a good reason. Sometimes it turns out later that I didn't actually have a good reason, but I never start out with the intention of doing nothing but screwing with you.\n\nThe caves go northeast and northwest from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "This is it. You have reached the deepest part of the caves. From here on out, you've still got underground rooms, but it's more like an ancient underground shrine than a plain old cave.\n\nFrom here you can go back southeast, or you can go northeast, in which direction you can discern an unearthly glow.\n\nBut first, gaze into that pool of still water, and see the face of your destiny.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pool", "response": "In the pool is a goat-fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examinthe goat-fish", "response": "It's a baby goat-fish. Maybe more of a kid-fish. It only has little nubby horns, and the fish end of it wriggles around energetically. This baby goat-fish represents youthful idealism, or youthful ignorance. I guess those are kind of the same thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tastthe goat-fish", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the goat-fish tastes like pickles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You asthe goat-fish about itself", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "The pool is too small for you to swim in, so you shrink down to the size of a frog and swim around in it for a while. Then you return to your normal size.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet goat-fipet goat-fish", "response": "The goat-fish bleats contentedly as you nuzzle its goaty little face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You takthe goat-fish", "response": "It takes a couple tries, but eventually you scoop the baby goat-fish up out of the pool. It emits a few high-pitched bleats and then it calms down in your comforting grasp.\n\nThe goat-fish bleats a little bleating song.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You squeeze it", "response": "You achieve nothing by this.\n\nThe goat-fish nibbles on your finger.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is it. You have reached the deepest part of the caves.\n\nFrom here you can go back southeast, or you can go northeast, in which direction you can discern an unearthly glow.\n\nThe baby goat-fish wriggles its way up your arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glow", "response": "It glimmers, or glistens, or maybe even glisters--no, I'd\nbetter stick with glistens--with a radiance you find very slightly unnerving.\n\nThe kid-fish crawls up to your shoulder and tries to headbutt you in the neck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-east", "response": "This room is awash in light: In the south wall, an archway towers over you, glowing as if reflecting the brightness of a distant galaxy.\n\nThe room with the pool is back to the southwest, and it looks like there's a shortcut to the east. I put that shortcut there just for you.\n\nThe baby goat-fish almost falls to the ground, but you catch it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the archway", "response": "This archway is a symbol of the ultimate, I mean the penultimate barrier between my comatose mind and the outside world. It literally is that, but it's also symbolically that. The lines are beginning\nto blur.\n\nThe path through the arch is blocked by a big door.\n\nAll of a sudden, the baby goat-fish yawns and falls asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "This idle door is actually the barrier you have to worry about. I guess if the arch is the symbolic barrier, then this door is the literal barrier. By \"literal\" here I mean \"literal-within-the-dream-world.\"\n\nIn the door is another keyhole-depression, this one in the shape of, like, a V with a ridiculous curly thing attached to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You taste the fish", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the goat-fish tastes like pickles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the door", "response": "See, that would make sense, but the goat-fish is a literal (dream-)goat-fish, not a Capricorn symbol. You've got a\nclassic confusion between signifier and signified on your hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shake the fish", "response": "Aw, but it's so cute when it's sleeping! Just let it rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the capricorn", "response": "(the goat-fish)\nIt's a baby goat-fish. Maybe more of a kid-fish. It only has little nubby horns, and the fish end of it wriggles around energetically. This baby goat-fish represents youthful idealism, or youthful ignorance. I guess those are kind of the same thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the capricorn in the depression", "response": "(the goat-fish in the keyhole-depression)\nSee, that would make sense, but the goat-fish is a literal (dream-)goat-fish, not a Capricorn symbol. You've got a\nclassic confusion between signifier and signified on your hands.\n\nThe baby goat-fish snores a little bleating snore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow horn", "response": "You start to blow into the horn, but the tremendous sound that emerges is too much for you to handle. It symbolizes the conclusion of the individuation process, which, if attained prematurely, would result in a psychological short-circuit. What I'm saying is, this is not the time or place for unleashing the power of the horn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow capricorn", "response": "(the goat-fish)\nThat's not something you can blow into. Or, at any rate, you don't need to blow into it. Let's do something else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop it", "response": "No, no! You can't leave it here alone! It can't fend for itself!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fish", "response": "It's a baby goat-fish. Maybe more of a kid-fish. It only has little nubby horns, and the fish end of it wriggles around energetically. This baby goat-fish represents youthful idealism, or youthful ignorance. I guess those are kind of the same thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Here's the place in the tunnel where there's an exit to the surface instead of an east wall.\n\nThe cave continues to the north and southwest, and there's that tiny shortcut to the shining archway to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "So, from up here in front of the stately manor, you can see all the rest of the island. An entrance has opened into the caves beneath the jungle to the west of you.\n\nDown the hill to the southwest is a white sandy beach.\n\nThe goat-fish burps in its sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Siren abouthe goat-fish", "response": "The Siren tells you she is extremely worried about the well-being of her little goat-fish Tarin, who got lost in a cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel streaming hair", "response": "The Siren is totally cool with your feeling her hair, which falls away like bashful silk through your fingers. She must use one heck of a conditioner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the tarin to Siren", "response": "Her jaw drops. \"Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh. You brought Tarin!\"\n\nThe goat-fish leaps into the Siren's arms with a triumphant bleat and she immediately begins cooing over it.\n\n\"You know, I actually have the perfect reward for you. Check this out:\" She produces a piece of pearlescent material from an invisible drawer or something.\n\n\"Do you recognize this? It's the symbol for Capricorn. It's thematically appropriate, because Tarin here is a goat-fish, right? Anyway, I want you to have it.\" She hands it to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You taste the streaming hair", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the long streaming hair tastes like finely-shredded dark chocolate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You taste the capricorn", "response": "(the Capricorn symbol)\nAccording to the dream-logic of tastes, the Capricorn symbol tastes like a goat-fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This room is awash in light: In the south wall, an archway towers over you, glowing as if reflecting the brightness of a distant galaxy.\n\nThe room with the pool is back to the southwest, and it looks like there's a shortcut to the east. I put that shortcut there just for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "This idle door is actually the barrier you have to worry about. I guess if the arch is the symbolic barrier, then this door is the literal barrier. By \"literal\" here I mean \"literal-within-the-dream-world.\"\n\nIn the door is another keyhole-depression, this one in the shape of, like, a V with a ridiculous curly thing attached to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the capricorn in the door", "response": "(the Capricorn symbol in the idle door)\nThe Capricorn symbol slides into place with a click. The door dematerializes, its constituent dream-atoms disappearing into the dream-aether.\n\nNice job! The path to the final challenge is now open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You have reached the end of your quest. Here, at the center of Nautilisia, is the sunless crypt that symbolizes the spiritual and psychological profundity of the coma that I've been in all this time.\n\nThe ceiling above roils with irisdescent turmoil, symbolizing the conflux of emotions that are going on in my brain. A spiral design on the floor leads your gaze toward the center of the room, which is the center of the center of Nautilisia:\n\nLying prostrate on a dais of nacreous stone and wrapped in webs of gauze is my own comatose body.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the body", "response": "That's definitely me. You'd know my face anywhere. And I'm definitely, definitely in a coma. This symbolizes the fact that I'm in a coma right now.\n\nSo, this is the final puzzle! How can you possibly wake me up, and release my mind from this nice nap? I mean, this coma?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the spiral", "response": "You're gonna have to take my word for it, but the spiral on the floor is a logarithmic spiral with a growth factor of about 1.6180339887. This symbolizes the mathematical perfection of pure thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste body", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the comatose body tastes like a comatose person. What is wrong with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dais", "response": "The word \"nacreous\" looks like it means \"gross,\" but it actually refers to the texture of nacre, i.e. mother-of-pearl. So you can imagine this dais as like a great big pearl growing out of the floor.\n\nI guess when I put it that way it sounds kind of gross anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You taste dais", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the dais of nacreous stone tastes like asay Kleenex.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ceiling", "response": "The irised ceiling of the crypt casts all kinds of weird colored lights across the room, symbolizing the blurring of self, shadow, anima, and animus. It also symbolizes emotional turmoil. It symbolizes both things at the same time. That's part of the blurring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste ceiling", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the irised ceiling tastes like the candy coating of an M&M.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You taste yourself", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, yourself taste like vanilla ice cream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow horn", "response": "When you put your lips to the wreathèd horn, it emits a huge, deep moan like a mob of whales singing in unison. The ceiling rumbles. The sleeper stirs.\n\nI'm trying to decide how many times you should have to blow the horn to make me wake up. How about nine?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "The conch blasts again, like waves crashing on a glass beach. The vibrations shake the irised ceiling.\n\nYeah, nine is probably too many. How about seven?\n\nFine. Because I like you: three times. Just one more time.\n\nNo?\n\nNo?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow horn", "response": "You blow into the wreathèd horn again, with a tone like a hurricane inside a crystal bell.\n\nThen the ceiling cracks, and shatters, and the light of the sun, symbolizing the clarity of conscious thought, shines into the previously sunless crypt, which symbolizes the stagnancy of\nabsolute introspection, right onto my unconscious body, which symbolizes me.\nAnd then everything goes white.\nAnd now I'm awake. Look, see? I'm awake. We can get going now.\nAnyway, thanks for putting up with all that nonsense. I know I probably goof off too much, and it gets to be a pain some of the time. I really do want both of us to have fun, even if some of the time the only one having any fun is me. So I really appreciate your tolerance. I guess \"tolerance\" isn't the right word. You know what I mean.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You sit on the reef", "response": "When you sit on the reef, it scratches your butt. I'm trying not to be sadistic, but you make it so easy sometimes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the reef", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste reef", "response": "According to the dream-logic of tastes, the bare coral reef tastes like .", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take a the break", "response": "All right. Let me tell you how it's done.\nSit down on the sand and close your eyes. Listen to the nice lady singing. Listen to the wind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit down", "response": "See? Nothing is urgent. Everything will happen when it needs to happen.\nMaybe the moon is shining through some palm leaves. Maybe an old man is tuning his violin. Maybe it starts to rain a little, but then it stops.\nOkay, open your eyes. There. Wasn't that nice?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss body", "response": "Oh! Oh, that's adorable! That wasn't the solution I had in mind, but maybe it should work. Do you think that should be what wakes me up?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "All right, then. When you kiss me, it'll break the psychic spell, and Nautilisia will disappear, but I'll finally wake up from this coma and we can get going to whatever it is you think is so important.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "Okay, that's fine. Let's say you kiss me, but nothing happens. Go ahead and try to figure out the \"real\" solution.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill body", "response": "Ow! Ow! Stop! STOP. Seriously, stop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gauze", "response": "No no no no! I'm not wearing anything under those webs.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Mythological" ]

[ "alternative endings", "ancient Greece", "Anonymous", "built-in hints", "cover art", "grief", "hospital", "IF Competition 2012", "IFComp Game", "journey", "magic", "male protagonist", "multiple endings", "Mythology", "NightFloyd transcript", "orpheus", "Oxford", "profanity", "romance", "strong NPCs", "Xyzzy Awards 2012" ]

[ 4, 16, 12, 2, 2 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Are you sure you want to quit?\n\nPress any key to continue.\nEurydice\n\nThis room is full of silence. Freshly disturbed dust hangs upon the air. There are patterns of pressure upon the carpet, suggesting there are spaces where once there weren't. The walls are bare, but for the occasional pictureless hook. There is a wardrobe here, a chest of drawers and a skeleton of shelves against the far wall.\n\nThe only way out is to the west onto the upstairs landing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You've been better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wardrobe", "response": "The wardrobe casts a knobbly shadow against the bare wall behind it. The door hangs very slightly open, showing a crack of darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wardrobe", "response": "You step into the wardrobe and sit down in the space, pressing your senses against the emptiness as if longing alone is enough to create something from nothing. With your eyes closed you can almost feel the soft pressure of Celine's clothes against your face and breathe in the scent of her rising from the disturbed fabric. But you cannot delude yourself for nearly as long as you would like to. This wardrobe is empty. There is nothing here, and you get out again before you start to feel foolish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelves", "response": "These shelves are a framework for nothing but air. The books they held not so very long ago evade you now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at drawers", "response": "A pale pine set of drawers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawers", "response": "There is no point opening them because you know they contain nothing, and you don't want to have to remember everything that's gone. All her scarves, and rings, and pretty things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hooks", "response": "The walls are magnolia, the colour of amnesia and rented houses.\nThere used to be a framed print of Munch's Madonna hanging from one of these picture hooks, and passion in Celine's voice as she talked about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine carpet", "response": "The carpet is the colour of sand, as though the room has become a tideline, washed clean of its cockleshell memories and mermaid-hair dreams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The upstairs landing is dimly illuminated from the light in the empty room. From here, you can hear a murmur of voices coming from the living room downstairs.\n\nTo the north is Dave's room, to the west your own. The empty room that was Celine's is to the east. There is a flight of stairs leading up to John's room and another going down to the ground floor of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "The voices are too muffled by distance for you to make out anything beyond the fact that people are speaking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Your room is a complete mess. The bed is unmade. The bookshelves that once lined the walls are a ruin of fallen books and splintered wood. There are piles of things that shouldn't be piled everywhere. All the things you thought you cared about feel like mockery.\n\nA mysterious lyre, slightly battered from possibly having fallen from your bookshelves, lies among the wreckage.\n\nBehind you, to the east, is the upstairs landing", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bookshelves", "response": "Your books are strewn like roadkill across the carpet among the jagged pieces of shelving, far beyond any easy rescue. Along with the books, have come the sort of foolish tokens that reside half-forgotten on bookshelves. You have a Cuddly Cthulhu and a Darth Vader Mr Potato Head, a string of silver starred tinsel you forgot to take down two Christmases ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lyre", "response": "It looks out of place. It is not an especially beautiful object; if anything it seems worn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hug", "response": "(yourself)\nIf you think that'll help.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hug Cthulhu", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Cthulhu", "response": "He is really rather cute for an elder God.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tinsel", "response": "It is rather dusty and threadbare; now it crowns a pile of fallen books with stars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at potato", "response": "This is a very silly item. It was marketed as Darth Tater. You were quite delighted by it, at the time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tinsel", "response": "It is October - you have already accumulated ten months of bad luck. No need to carry it round with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Cthulhu", "response": "Elder Gods should not be carried around like a child's comforter; it is undignified for them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take lyre", "response": "You certainly can't remember ever having bought, or been given, a lyre. It is smooth and slightly warm in your hands, its shape a graceful curve like a human spine.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Your room is a complete mess. The bed is unmade. The bookshelves that once lined the walls are a ruin of fallen books and splintered wood. There are piles of things that shouldn't be piled everywhere. All the things you thought you cared about feel like mockery.\n\nBehind you, to the east, is the upstairs landing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine piles", "response": "It's just stuff, the accumulated detritus of a life lived heedlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the tinsel", "response": "(first taking tinsel)\nIt is October - you have already accumulated ten months of bad luck. No need to carry it round with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear the potato", "response": "(first taking Darth Vader Mr Potato Head)\nYou don't really want to be carrying him round.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Dave's room is little more than a storage space. The bed is just a bare mattress and there are boxes of books - mostly yours - piled everywhere. Damp socks, and half-finished laundry, strew the floor.\n\nThe upstairs landing lies to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the socks", "response": "Dave's socks are plentiful and, truthfully, not entirely pleasant. They are bought in bulk by his parents and are therefore always identical, bobbly and embroidered - incongruously - with Ws. You are not sure if they are damp because they have recently come out of the washing machine or because they desperately need to go in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine boxes", "response": "You own far more books than can be stuffed onto your shelves - here they live in boxes and gather dust. Every now and then you open them up and rifle through them and it's like meeting old friends you forgot you cared for.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mattress", "response": "An uncovered bed really gives a place a transient look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na lyre", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the lyre", "response": "You plunk disconsolately at the lyre for a bit.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Dave's room is little more than a storage space. The bed is just a bare mattress and there are boxes of books - mostly yours - piled everywhere. Damp socks, and half-finished laundry, strew the floor.\n\nThe upstairs landing lies to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "You are eaten by a grue - just kidding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The upstairs landing is dimly illuminated from the light in the empty room. From here, you can hear a murmur of voices coming from the living room downstairs.\n\nTo the north is Dave's room, to the west your own. The empty room that was Celine's is to the east. There is a flight of stairs leading up to John's room and another going down to the ground floor of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You pad about halfway up the staircase and then a vague sense of guilt assails you ... you probably shouldn't be snooping around in John's room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "There is so much guilt washing about at the moment that violation of privacy hardly seems like bothering over and you make your way up the stairs to John's room.\n\nJohn's room occupies the attic spaces. It is a room of peculiar geometries. The whole place is a mess at present, and the blinds of the skylights are down so that triangular shadows cast themselves across the walls. There are no obvious signs of Celine, but why would there be? There is the jester's mask she bought John for Christmas hanging on the wall.\n\nLying on the floor, in a corner, is a plastic bag\n\nThe stairs down will take you back to the upstairs landing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mask", "response": "From last Christmas, you seem to remember, another lifetime. Like all Celine's gifts, it came exquisitely wrapped - black and gold, perhaps, to match the mask itself. You wonder if Celine's box of wrapping paper, ribbons and decorations is still beneath the eaves, or if her parents took that too. \"Why go to all that trouble for something that's just going to be ripped off?\" you'd ask. But Celine loved the ephemeral. And, so, apparently did you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mask", "response": "You have no intention of stealing it but you unhook it carefully from the wall and, after a moment of hesitation, place it against your face. The interior of the mask is cool and smooth, like dead skin. You look out at the world from a different face, your peripheral vision imprisoned by the edges of the eyeholes. You trace your fingers over the painted smile. It strikes you as no less real than any other expression you have worn lately and it is with reluctance that you return the mask to its place on the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bag", "response": "It is a weirdly bulbous shape. The handles are knotted together so it looks as if the bag has bunny ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "You undo the tight knots with difficulty and look inside, already knowing what you'll find. The contents gleam silver like pirate treasure - the empty packets of Celine's medication you found on the floor of her bedroom the night she disappeared. It is not the first time you have asked yourself if you should have insisted on taking it with you to the hospital, but it is not a question you dare ask yourself too often.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine packets", "response": "Diazepam ... fluoxetine ... aripiprazole ... the names fly past you, tangling your tongue up in a merciless succession of rarely used letters. Most of the packets are empty but not all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the packets", "response": "You rifle through the packets and eventually find one that isn't gutted. You pop a couple of pills from their foil cocoon ... although they represent a peculiar form of memorabilia to say the least.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome pills\na lyre", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pills", "response": "(the pills)\nSmallish, off-white, round, innocuous, except not.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "John's room occupies the attic spaces. It is a room of peculiar geometries. The whole place is a mess at present, and the blinds of the skylights are down so that triangular shadows cast themselves across the walls. There are no obvious signs of Celine, but why would there be? There is the jester's mask she bought John for Christmas hanging on the wall.\n\nLying on the floor, in a corner, is a plastic bag\n\nThe stairs down will take you back to the upstairs landing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the blinds", "response": "You stand beneath the skylight and draw up the blinds. From this peculiar angle you can see nothing but sloping roofs and an expanse of endless sky. Light as bright as orange juice pours down from the setting sun but it is not warm. After a moment or two, you let the blinds fall back into place. You don't want John to know you were messing about in his room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shadows", "response": "They form strange shapes and gather up in corners like they are plotting something. It is very Lovecraftian, which John would probably appreciate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "Strange notes fall from the strings of the lyre, not discordant but you can't describe it. And you aren't quite sure you like the music. It tastes like lemon juice in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "You don't really feel like playing more. The inside of your mouth feels sour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat lyre", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Your singing is abominable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mask", "response": "Better not keep indulging yourself with painted fancies. Besides, it belongs to John and you shouldn't really be fiddling with it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Winter light lies in anaemic strips upon the floor from where it has fallen through the glass panels in the front door. There is an awful painting hanging on the wall. The murmuring voices are more of a babble now; too many over-lapping conversations create an alien, baboonish gibberish.\n\nThe outside world lurks to the west and the living room to the north. Or you could always just retreat upstairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "There are too many voices for you to be able to make out much of any conversation. Besides, eavesdropping is the most foolish of vices.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the painting", "response": "You painted this - in the loosest sense of the word - when you were about eighteen and nurturing an over-inflated sense of your own creativity. It is a black canvas with a heavily textured shape of reddish swirls in the middle and a speckling of white stars in one corner. Sometimes it looks like a wound, sometimes like a freshly forming galaxy. Your last housemate thought it was something obsence. So much for your aristic soul. Ho hum. So much for your artistic soul.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "There are lots of people gathered in the living room. Stepping inside unfortunately catches the attention of the one you like least. Laurie clatters towards you and, before you can do anything to save yourself, captures you in a hug you feel vaguely socially obligated to endure. You hold yourself as rigid as a blade until she goes away again. The rush of hatred you feel towards her is positively intoxicating.\n\nThere are so many people here. Have they come to ... what? Stare at the bereft? Why? Is this how other people grieve? En masse?\n\nYour housemate John is sitting cross-legged on the floor at the end of the coffee table, frowning over a game of a Go. His opponent, Twitch, sits opposite and appears much more laid-back about the whole business. Rick is slumped on the sofa, a bottle of port at his elbow; Elsie is sitting next to him, apparently watching the game. Jess is huddled in a cloak on the other sofa, Adrian beside her, looking almost as uncomfortable as you probably do. As for Laurie, she's leaning against the fireplace, and wearing an expression of infinite suffering like she's living her own little Victorian melodrama.\n\nAnd finally, in the far corner of the room by the open door to the kitchen, like a person in its own right, is the last piece of household furniture you bought in consultation with Celine: a wrought iron coat stand. So nouveau-gothic darling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stand", "response": "You seem to own far more coats than four people living in a house could possibly need or want. The metal of the coatstand is almost entirely obscured beneath fabric. One of your own coats is just visible. There are two identical big brown dusters belonging to Dave. Celine's slightly shabby, soft velvet jacket. A zebra-striped hoodie of John's. His big military coat with the golden buttons. More beneath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the coat", "response": "You unhook your coat with difficulty from the coatstand, nearly over-toppling the whole teetering structure. Folding it over your arm, you can feel the edge of something caught in the lining.\n\nTwitch steeples his fingers as he ponders the board in front of him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the coat", "response": "Digging through your pockets, your fingers catch the edge of something that has fallen down into the depths of the lining. After an impressive display of digital dexterity, you fish out a 50p coin.\n\nSomeone makes a desultory remark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the coin", "response": "This is exactly what it looks like, except it is relatively freshly minted and has a brightness to it that would have delighted you when you were a small child.\n\nTwitch steeples his fingers as he ponders the board in front of him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at John", "response": "You remember the first time you invited John and Celine to come to dinner. You can see them now on the doorstep, John slightly behind, handsome and distinguished in a military-style coat with gold buttons and braiding, Celine, in black just like always, holding out to you a hand-tied bouquet of flowers the colour of her lipstick, and smiling.\n\nSomebody asks the Rick the time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hug laurie", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.\n\nJess and Adrian converse in soft whispers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Laurie", "response": "Laurie is small and pretty, pale with apparent grief, and you despise her. She's only here because she's dating Twitch (although they are both fucking other people) and she must have met Celine all of twice. You suspect she is enjoying the enactment of tragedy.\n\nLaurie stands behind Twitch, combing her fingers through his lightly curling hair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Twitch", "response": "You only know Twitch by reputation. He is an old school friend of Celine's and your paths have never crossed. He looks like the clinically depressed stoner he is, which is not devoid of a certain glamour. He has restless fingers and idle eyes.\n\nJess leans over and makes a show of being of interested in the progress of the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Jess", "response": "You cannot look at Jess at the moment without remembering the drive the hospital, stars streaking overhead, the slow drip-drip-drip of time in the waiting room, and the hushed, awkward solemnity of a brief bedside visitation.\n\nJess shifts on the sofa, sinking a little further into her jumper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Rick", "response": "Rick is a man not suited to inaction. On the sofa like this, he looks like a pile of himself. The port he is drinking is surely of excellent quality but it seems to afford him little pleasure at the moment.\n\nSomebody asks the Rick the time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Elsie", "response": "You don't know Elsie very well, but this mainly because there is not much overlap between your lives bar some friends in common. She has always struck you as a terribly nice person.\n\nSomeone makes a desultory remark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Adrian", "response": "You find a flickering of kindred in Adrian's glance. You are sure he finds this gathering almost as unendurable as you do.\n\nJess and Adrian converse in soft whispers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell john", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nTwitch steeples his fingers as he ponders the board in front of him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell coat", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nElsie smiles at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You hear nothing unexpected.\n\nRick opens a new bottle of port.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to John", "response": "\"How's the game going,\" you ask. There is a pause as John considers. \"I'm losing,\" he concludes finally. \"Oh,\" you say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Laurie", "response": "God no. You don't want to support her delusion that she has any place here. If you tried to talk to her, you might have to kill her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Twitch", "response": "Like most comprehensively broken people there is a touch of the rockstar about Twitch, and he wears it well. You are conscious of an uncomfortable intermingling of attraction and disdain, and that makes you rather shy of talking to him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Elsie", "response": "\"Would you like a cup of a tea?\" asks Elsie, the moment you step into her visual range. You shake your head and thank her. Elsie is a perpetual tea-maker. It might annoy you in somebody else but Elsie's tea is the sincerest tea you have ever drunk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Rick", "response": "\"Care for some port, m'dear?\" offers Rick, with a valiant semblance of his usual bonhommie. \"It's a very fine old tawny.\" You don't doubt it but you aren't sure inebriation would be the best addition to your mood right now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Rick the the time", "response": "(To communicate in Eurydice, TALK TO a character.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Adrian", "response": "Under different circumstances you would actually quite like to talk to Adrian. Maybe you are deluding yourself with suspicions of kinship but you can more readily imagine yourself saying something that feels true to him than anyone else. But how can you speak of anything in this company, at this time. Better not to talk to him at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to yourself", "response": "You soliloquise, because you're a bit of an arse:\nFull fathom five thy father lies;\nOf his bones are coral made;\nThose are pearls that were his eyes;\nNothing of him that does fade,\nBut doth suffer a sea-change\nInto something rich and strange.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The extensive living / dining area was one of the features that drew you all to this house when you were looking for places to rent. That and - despite the fact none of you have been able to bring yourself to do anything as prosaic as cleaning for days - the fact it's not an abject shit hole like most of places on offer when you were doing the rounds.\n\nCurrently, it's all cluttered with people. Your housemate John is sitting cross-legged on the floor at the end of the coffee table, frowning over a game of a Go. His opponent, Twitch, sits opposite and appears much more laid-back about the whole business. Rick is slumped on the sofa, a bottle of port at his elbow; Elsie is sitting next to him, apparently watching the game. Jess is huddled in a cloak on the other sofa, Adrian beside her, looking almost as uncomfortable as you feel. As for Laurie (fucking Laurie), she's leaning against the fireplace, and wearing an expression of infinite suffering like she's living her own little Victorian melodrama\n\nThe coat stand is still in its corner, looming like an unexpected guest.\n\nYour escape routes are east into the kitchen, or south into the hall.\n\nLaurie paces back and forth in front of the fireplace, her fuck-me boot heels clomping on the wooden floor - clearly she is not garnering enough attention to feel comfortable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You remember long, sun-drenched afternoons in here with Celine, baking and talking, filling up the kitchen with laughter, the scent of sweet things cooking and occasionally smoke and the smell of stuff you've burned to a crisp. The kitchen is surprisingly spacious for a rented house. It has faux-granite counter tops and matching tiling, and fitted cupboards in shades of coffee and cream. It would be a pleasure to cook in such a kitchen.\n\nScattered across the worksurface nearest the hob is an array of cooking utensils, onion skins and pepper cores, including the wooden knifeblock you bought for a tenner in Boswells during a sale.\n\nVera and Tilda (plants, not people, and therefore bearable) are on\nthe little round kitchen table.\n\nNatalie is by the hob, stirring a pan of pasta.\n\nThe back door leads into the back garden to the north, and, if you're feeling particularly brave (or masochistic), the living room is to the west", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vera", "response": "Vera-the-Aloe is an aloe vera plant, hence the name. You christened her in an excess of cleverness. Celine grew her from a tiny shoot\nHer soil is dry, and her long leaves are droopy, fraying brown at the ends.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Tilda", "response": "Tilda is also a plant, although you've forgotten what kind. You named her Tilda after Tilda Swinton because she is a very beautifully androgynous plant. She has green leaves, shiny as wax, and generous, open-mouthed flowers with immensely long, lascivious stamen. Celine also bought and nurtured Tilda. She seems to be fine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the Vera", "response": "(first taking Vera)\nYou're not massively keen on the idea of wandering around with a houseplant under your arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat tilda", "response": "(first taking Tilda)\nYou're not massively keen on the idea of wandering around with a houseplant under your arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the vera", "response": "Um, it's a plant, remember?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Natalie", "response": "Oh hell, you'd entirely forgotten Natalie was here. She's come up from London for you, especially for you ... to be with you now in your time of need. You know you ought to feel gratitude but you can't seem to muster any.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Natalie", "response": "Natalie comes over and hugs you. She is no Laurie but you find touching people, and being touched, difficult at the moment. The world waits for you, or possibly recedes from you, behind a pane of glass, visible but inaccessible. Somebody breaching it is a dull kind of ache.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hug natalie", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pan", "response": "It looks ... like human intenstines flobbing around in simmering water. You can't remember the last time you felt hungry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the knifeblock", "response": "Currently it contains only one knife.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the knife", "response": "You draw the knife from the knife block, earning yourself a worried look from Natalie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the knife", "response": "A cleaver-style knife, still relatively sharp despite your ineptitude with a sharpening stone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "Natalie looks at the lyre, and then at you, rather curiously as you pluck the strings at random.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut yourself", "response": "Self-harming in front of Natalie would be juvenile and ridiculous.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The kitchen is surprisingly spacious for a rented house. It has faux-granite counter tops and matching tiling, and fitted cupboards in shades of coffee and cream. It would be a pleasure to cook in such a kitchen.\n\nScattered across the worksurface nearest the hob is an array of cooking utensils, onion skins and pepper cores, including the wooden knifeblock you bought for a tenner in Boswells during a sale.\n\nVera and Tilda (plants, not people, and therefore bearable) are on the little round kitchen table.\n\nNatalie is by the hob, stirring a pan of pasta.\n\nThe back door leads into the back garden to the north, and, if you're feeling particularly brave (or masochistic), the living room is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss natalie", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play knife", "response": "That would make you feel very silly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut natalie", "response": "Random acts of violence are probably unnecessary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cupboards", "response": "They're just household cupboards, banal, ordinary cupboards, filled with banal, ordinary things, some of which belonged to Celine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat natalie", "response": "(first taking Natalie)\nYou can't really see reason to cart that around with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The back garden is really little more than a lawn-gone-wild and a weedy patio. The sky is a cool grey curtain backlit by the weak sun. The chill air bites at your skin.\n\nYou can get back into the house to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the patio", "response": "Yellowing stone, green weeds, a maze of cracks and encroachment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lawn", "response": "The blades are tipped by an unhealthy yellow and sway indolently in the slight breeze. As you watch, a violent ripple of motion seizes the stalks and whips them back and forth. At first you think it must be the wind but then you see a blur of a new green in the grass and a snake slithers onto the patio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lawn", "response": "The blades are tipped by an unhealthy yellow and sway indolently in the slight breeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snake", "response": "You would not have thought there were such snakes in England. It is a strong, sinuous creature, dappled in black diamonds like a snake on a Snakes And Ladders board. It has hateful yellow eyes, as blank as pieces of glass. You are not by nature inclined towards anthropomorphisation but there is something both directed and malignant in its gaze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "A sudden surety takes possession of your fingers and they dance seemingly of their accord across the lyre strings as if they find them familiar. Music floats across the still evening air, honey-sweet and sad. You play to the neglected grass and the uncharted sky, to the inconstant breeze and the fading light. Even the snake lifts its head, and sways entranced.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "You are reluctant to touch the lyre again so soon, in case you dispel your own song by remembered incompetence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hug the snake", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the snake", "response": "Random acts of violence are probably unnecessary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snake", "response": "The snake has risen up from its coil, its eyes wide as its head moves back and forth in the thrall of the music from your lyre.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the snake", "response": "Keep your hands to yourself!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut yourself", "response": "You toy with the idea of dragging the knife across your arm. You are really too old for these adolescent theatrics but for a few moments there is actually something like pleasure in the contemplation of neat parallel lines, slowly filling up red. If nothing else would be something to feel.\nYou tell yourself again that you shouldn't be acting out like a teenager. The edge of the blade is cool. You remember Celine's arms, covered from shoulder to wrist, in long white scars, the skin creased like the folds of an accordion. They were not ugly, but it was difficult to see such violence and pain enacted by choice upon her own bodyOh why the hell not. You push your sleeve right back and very calmly cut yourself. There is that split-second of anxiety before the blade touches you for the first time, as if your very nature recoils from what you are about to do, but the motion is almost gentle. The next three cuts come in a frenzy. The pain - bright and clean - hits only after you see the blood. A familiar giddiness washes over you after and you feel an artificial ease, as if something wound too tight inside you has finally given way. When the endorphins fade away, you hear a rustle and the snake disappears into the grassThat's more than enough of that. In the aftermath, although you feel vaguely better, you also feel vaguely embarrassed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The back garden is really little more than a lawn-gone-wild and a weedy patio. The sky is a cool grey curtain backlit by the weak sun. The chill air bites at your skin.\n\nYou can get back into the house to the south.\n\nA snake, still as stone, has partially emerged from the long grass.\nIt seems to be watching you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The kitchen is surprisingly spacious for a rented house. It has faux-granite counter tops and matching tiling, and fitted cupboards in shades of coffee and cream. It would be a pleasure to cook in such a kitchen.\n\nScattered across the worksurface nearest the hob is an array of cooking utensils, onion skins and pepper cores, including the wooden knifeblock you bought for a tenner in Boswells during a sale.\n\nVera and Tilda (plants, not people, and therefore bearable) are on the little round kitchen table.\n\nNatalie is by the hob, stirring a pan of pasta.\n\nThe back door leads into the back garden to the north, and, if you're feeling particularly brave (or masochistic), the living room is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Natalie", "response": "\"How are you doing, hon?\" she asks, all warmth and sympathy. You suspect \"doing\" is a polite way of saying \"coping\". \"I'm fine,\" you lie. And, then, because it's so obvious a lie: \"It's hard, of course.\" \"Yeah.\" Natalie gazes you at with an expression that is starting to become familiar - why do people always look at the bereaved that way?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Natalie", "response": "\"I'm nearly done with the pasta,\" says Natalie, \"so at least this way I'll know you're eating.\" You mumble your thanks, inevitably sounding ungracious. You feel monstrous, caged behind your glass, snapping at proffered kindness, howling at a heedless sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Natalie", "response": "Seeing you lingering in this awkward, Natalie stops stirring and smiles at you encouragingly. \"I'm here for you,\" she says. \"Do you want to talk?\" You have to bite back sarastic things you don't mean. So you keep smiling and shake your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You had better not wander around the house carrying a cleaver. For a start, you could fall over and accidentally stab yourself, which would be embarrassing. But also it could make the people in the living room - who are technically your guests - feel uncomfortable", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The extensive living / dining area was one of the features that drew you all to this house when you were looking for places to rent. That and - despite the fact none of you have been able to bring yourself to do anything as prosaic as cleaning for days - the fact it's not an abject shit hole like most of places on offer when you were doing the rounds.\n\nCurrently, it's all cluttered with people. Your housemate John is sitting cross-legged on the floor at the end of the coffee table, frowning over a game of a Go. His opponent, Twitch, sits opposite and appears much more laid-back about the whole business. Rick is slumped on the sofa, a bottle of port at his elbow; Elsie is sitting next to him, apparently watching the game. Jess is huddled in a cloak on the other sofa, Adrian beside her, looking almost as uncomfortable as you feel. As for Laurie (fucking Laurie), she's leaning against the fireplace, and wearing an expression of infinite suffering like she's living her own little Victorian melodrama\n\nThe coat stand is still in its corner, looming like an unexpected guest.\n\nYour escape routes are east into the kitchen, or south into the hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to John", "response": "\"How are you doing?\" you ask, since it is the officially sanctioned question at a time like this. \"Still losing,\" he says. You didn't mean the game, and you're pretty sure John didn't either but it's probably better this way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Elsie", "response": "\"How are you doing?\" you both say, at exactly the same time and with exactly the same intonation. You smile awkwardly at each other. \"I'm okay,\" you say into the pause that follows. \"I don't think I am,\" says Elsie, shyly. Her honesty ripples through the room like a stone dropped into a fetid pond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Elsie", "response": "You feel obliged to click into comforting mode. It is not that you don't want to comfort Elsie, it's just you're afraid that all your words are lies. \"I have to believe that it's a choice she made,\" you say. \"She was so unhappy, you can understand why she did it.\" But you don't. You don't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Elsie", "response": "Elsie nods. You wonder if her faith makes this even harder for her. You want to ask about it, but what can you say? \"So do you think Celine has gone to Hell for what she did?\" Maybe not.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Elsie", "response": "Neither of you really dare say anything else. It's too delicate a balance to maintain, between honesty and lies, compassion and cruelty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Twitch", "response": "\"Is that a lyre\" asks Twitch, unexpectedly. You look at the lyre, surprised to find yourself carrying it even though you already knew you were. \"Yes,\" is the only reply you are capable of forming at the moment. There is a pause. Twitch nods with the sort of profound understanding only displayed by the stoned. \"Cool,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to John", "response": "\"Why on earth are you playing Go?\" you ask. John shrugs.\n\"Distraction is good,\" he says, finally. \"Surely you can do better than Go?\" you say, striving for a levity that goes down about as well as cyanide. John just shrugs again, Swedish and withdrawn. \"Why not?\" offers Twitch, who presumably brought the board with him and you cannot really think, or be bothered to think, of an answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to John", "response": "You decide to leave him to the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Laurie", "response": "God no. You don't want to support her delusion that she has any place here. If you tried to talk to her, you might have to kill her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Jess", "response": "You know that Jess is grieving much as you are grieving but she has tangled it up in a need to support others, and - you think - to be seen to be supporting others. She wants people to at look her and say to themselves \"she's so brave\" and then she can believe it for herself. But you don't want to be supported, you don't want to be the mechanism by which others distract themselves. Grief is not enobling in you. It seems to make you hard, ungracious, cold and churlish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Adrian", "response": "Under different circumstances you would actually quite like to talk to Adrian. Maybe you are deluding yourself with suspicions of kinship but you can more readily imagine yourself saying something that feels true to him than anyone else. But how can you speak of anything in this company, at this time. Better not to talk to him at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Rick", "response": "Rick produces a silver hip flask with a flourish. \"Absinthe?\" he suggests, raising his brows, entirely conscious of the effect. Amusement temporarily alleviates the atmosphere in the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Rick", "response": "Rick reaches a hand into a shopping bag languishing by the side of the sofa. \"Iberian ham?\" he says. \"Brie? Some pate?\" You are starting to feel churlish but you keep shaking your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Rick", "response": "Rick has probably run out of random indulgent foodstuffs to offer you by now, and you do not want to press in case the temporary semblance of normality founders. You remember that some of the people in this room are your friends and that you will not always feel this way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Jess", "response": "Anyway, you think, hard, ungracious, cold and churlish as you are, Jess is here specifically and explicitly for John. When somebody dies, there is a grief hierarchy, topped by those denoted closest to the deceased, usually based upon length of acquaintence. Blood, is of course, thicker than water, more meaningful than love.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Jess", "response": "For the moment, it is probably best you don't talk to Jess. It has so little to do with her, in any real sense, but she seems to inspire particularly miserable thoughts in you at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "The few discordant notes you manage to strike garner you a collection of odd looks, both sympathetic and less sympathetic, and it occurs to you that you're behaving rather strangely.\n\nLaurie paces back and forth in front of the fireplace, her fuck-me boot heels clomping on the wooden floor - clearly she is not garnering enough attention to feel comfortable.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The extensive living / dining area was one of the features that drew you all to this house when you were looking for places to rent. That and - despite the fact none of you have been able to bring yourself to do anything as prosaic as cleaning for days - the fact it's not an abject shit hole like most of places on offer when you were doing the rounds.\n\nCurrently, it's all cluttered with people. Your housemate John is sitting cross-legged on the floor at the end of the coffee table, frowning over a game of a Go. His opponent, Twitch, sits opposite and appears much more laid-back about the whole business. Rick is slumped on the sofa, a bottle of port at his elbow; Elsie is sitting next to him, apparently watching the game. Jess is huddled in a cloak on the other sofa, Adrian beside her, looking almost as uncomfortable as you feel. As for Laurie (fucking Laurie), she's leaning against the fireplace, and wearing an expression of infinite suffering like she's living her own little Victorian melodrama\n\nThe coat stand is still in its corner, looming like an unexpected guest.\n\nYour escape routes are east into the kitchen, or south into the hall.\n\nRick opens a new bottle of port.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na 50p coin\nyour coat\nsome pills\na lyre\n\nJohn hands an empty glass to Rick who obligingly sloshes port into it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear coat", "response": "Wearing a coat indoors is generally considered a bit odd.\n\nJohn sighs heavily as he loses yet another game of Go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nJohn sighs heavily as he loses yet another game of Go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear coat", "response": "It is a little chilly but you'll be going back inside sooner or later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snake", "response": "The snake has risen up from its coil, its eyes wide as its head moves back and forth in the thrall of the music from your lyre.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the pills", "response": "While imitation may be thought to be the sincerest form of flattery, you should probably not start randomly taking someone else's medication. It didn't do much good for Celine, after all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the pills to Natalie", "response": "Natalie is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na knife\na 50p coin\nyour coat\nsome pills\na lyre", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn around", "response": "You glance nervously over your shoulder but there is nothing untoward.\n\nPlaying pieces clink in the silence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Winter light lies in anaemic strips upon the floor from where it has fallen through the glass panels in the front door. There is an awful painting hanging on the wall. The murmuring voices are more of a babble now; too many over-lapping conversations create an alien, baboonish gibberish.\n\nThe outside world lurks to the west and the living room to the north. Or you could always just retreat upstairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is just an ordinary street, lined by Victorian terraces, with their slightly over-ambitious moulding and bow windows. In the distance you can hear the muted roar of traffic streaming down the Abingdon Road. It is not quite suburbia but it's a pocket of Oxford unreached by spires, dreaming or otherwise. The fading light is nonetheless tinged by gold. The sky is a swirl of grey and pink, like the interior of a shell. There is a biting promise of winter in the air.\n\nHinksey Park is to the northwest, your house to the east, and other places lie elsewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear coat", "response": "You shrug into your coat. It is a familar weight across your shoulders and you feel something shift within the tattered lining.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the coat", "response": "What else do you expect to find in there? An undiscovered Shakespearean sonnet", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na 50p coin\nyour coat (being worn)\nsome pills\na lyre", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "You feel like a busker as you plunk away on the lyre and you sound ... very bad indeed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "The gate to Hinksey Park is not far from your house but by the time you arrive the sky is already suffused by a greyness that has blotted out the potential glories of an Oxford sunset. Night is snapping at your heels. The park is the old fashioned kind, a basic arrangement of paths and benches, grass and trees. The nearest bench is over-hung by a willow tree, which has wept a burthen of withered foliage onto the seat. There is a lake, girdled by a path and an open air swimming pool.\n\nA river, which must be a tributary of the Thames, flows to the west. Malborough Road lies to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine willow", "response": "Oh willow, thou art sick. Autumn has stripped its bravado, leaving it frail and naked in the gathering dusk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lake", "response": "The lake is misshapen splodge in the gloom. The breeze occasionally picks up ripples on the water. At its edge, an enormous swan twists its neck towards the sky and flings wide its white wings like an angel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pool", "response": "Currently it's just an empty hollow, painted chlorine blue. You used to go all the time during the summer months - sometimes with Celine. You used to say she was a water-ninja she could swim so fast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the path", "response": "A path, plainly paved and circling the Lake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the swan", "response": "Swans are peculiar creatures. How can something so beautiful be so ungainly?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the bench", "response": "You go into the park and sit down on the nearest bench, letting the darkness enclose you. You're not very far from the houses and the road but the light and the noise doesn't reach you here. You could be in another world. The feeling of being entirely alone saturates your skin like cold. You listen to the almost imperceptible sound of air moving across the lake and through the scrubby grass. Tilting your head back, you stare at the sky. It looks as if it is made of stone. You wonder if this is how Celine felt, sitting on this bench perhaps, waiting to die, and stand up again hastily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the swan", "response": "Are you mad? They can be really dangerous. You read a story once of a swan breaking a man's leg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The river is a snake of moving darkness. There is a railway line running parallel on the other side and open fields after that. There is some kind of flat-bottomed boat by the bank nearest to you, and a tall man, in a long coat, is standing in the bow of the boat.\n\nHinksey Park is behind you to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "The man is so swathed about in garments it is hard to make out much about him. He is imposingly tall, or would be if he didn't stand in the hunched-over fashion he does, and seems gaunt. His hood is pulled down over his face, so you only occasionally catch glimpses of his profile: you piece together an impression of sharp-nosed pallor and pale eyes the colour of dirty water. One of his gloved hands rests upon the pole he probably uses to propel the boat through the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boat", "response": "You're not really an expert in boats. This one seems to be designed upon similar principles to a punt, although it lacks the comfortable cushions, champagne and strawberries you know for a fact to be an essential part of any punting trip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the coin to the man", "response": "You toss the coin to ferryman. It turns over and over in the air, flashing silver, and then he reaches out a gloved hand and engulfs it in darkness. He carries it to his mouth and bites it. \"That's not silver,\" he says. But then he shrugs. \"It'll do. In you get.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the boat", "response": "As you step towards the boat the Ferryman intercepts you again. \"Coming back is harder than going,\" he says. \"Are you sure?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "You step into the boat. There is a space for a single passenger but it is not exactly luxurious. You barely have time to sit down upon the damp wooden boards before the ferryman takes his first stroke, propelling the boat forward at an unlikely speed that causes the moving air to catch at you like icy hands. You remember that someone told you once that a punt can travel at 30 miles an hour in\nfavourable conditions ... but this one slips across the moonslick water as effortlessly as if it is glass. At any rate, you are glad that the man has sufficient taste to punt from the Oxford end. You tilt your head back. You are going so fast that the stars are smeared across the sky.\n\nSomething has happened. You have lost track of time, or track of yourself, or something. You were looking at the sky, feeling stars upon your skin, no, you were in a boat, cold seeping through you, wind tangling in your hair. But there is no trace of the punt here, or the man, or even a river. How did you get here? Where are you? There is a set of open wrought iron gates before you, as intricate as briars. Beyond them, hazy in the darkness to the southeast, a round lawn, dotted with trees. It all feels familiar somehow.\n\nGuarding the gate is biggest dog you have ever seen, a haunch of bloody meat and a vast water bowl at its feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "The trafficless road twines away into darkness. You could probably get to Headington, and from there into town but you're a long way from home and still not entirely sure how you got here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the meat", "response": "This well-gnawed haunch is marbled red and white like cartoon meat. Flesh hangs from the bone in bloody tatters. It must have belonged to a damn big animal. You hope it was an animal. Maybe it's the leg of the last person who tried to go through the gates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at bowl", "response": "The water within reflects pieces of the moon. It's just a dog's drinking bowl, although it is noticeably larger than average, presumably to accommodate three thirsty mouths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dog", "response": "\"Dog\" somehow doesn't cover it. This creature would put a lion to shame, although there is something more serpentine about it than leonine. Maybe it's the three heads, on their long, sinuous necks, and the whiplashing tail with its barbed end. It is covered in sleek black fur and its slitted eyes are ruby red.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the dog", "response": "\"Nice doggie\" you say, hopefully and the creature glares at you as if it feels horrendously patronised. You try making soothing sounds, while desperately maintaining a posture that would make it feel neither hostile nor amorous towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "All three heads turn in your direction as you lift the lyre, and a strange shiver runs down the length of the beast's back. If it was human you don't know what emotions you'd ascribe to it. It holds itself still and silent, only the heaving of its flanks to betray the fact it lives at all. And you play, strange, savage music, spiralling out of the lyre, drenched inhuman colours, filling your mouth up with heat and the tang of metal. Your heart tightens sickeningly in your chest, pulsing with the lyre strings, something like excitement, something like dread. The dog trembles where it stands, its eyes ablaze.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The wrought iron gates hang open.\n\nBeyond them, hazy in the darkness to the southeast, a round lawn, dotted with trees.\n\nGuarding the gate is biggest dog you have ever seen, a haunch of bloody meat and a vast water bowl at its feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You move. The beast throws back all three heads and hurls a howl of blood-curdling ferocity at the sky. And the clouds shake. You think it would probably be for the best to stop moving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "You feel as if you have been running, and running hard, and your fingers tremble on the strings, fearful of the lyre and its music.\nBut everything has changed. Softly, softly, comes the scent of green things growing, dark places, damp fur, warmth in your belly and all around, different songs. You lose time, the names of things. The stars becomes nothing but distant light. Your four clawed feet trample complex concepts to nothing but travelled earth, and happiness is the flow of the night. Then comes the creeping cold, not without, but within, and it snaps like winter at your heels. And you don't know what it means that yours is now the only song, and yours the only pounding paws, and yours the fur and yours the hunger and you alone who slumber in the dark places and dream of dreams once shared. The music fades to silence, and the dog slumps to the ground, ungainly now. Its eyes fall closed and it seems to sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You muster up your courage and sidle past the subdued monster, holding your breath lest you rouse it.\n\nYou could be visiting a stately home, or an Oxford college, or a country church, except you're not. You know there are more modern constructions hidden away behind it, one of which - the severely acute ward - lies like Sleeping Beauty's castle behind thorns of metal and stone.\n\nCircling an oval of moderately well-kept grass is a gravel path and, beyond it to the west, a sandstone building gleams palely golden against the shadowed sky. The gates loom to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sandstone building", "response": "From its harmonious proportions and the flanking classical pillars, you suspect the main building must be Regency in design ... that or made out of lego blocks. There is something desperate in the rigidity of its symmetries, as if somebody believed that order could be imposed upon the universe by the application of lots of straight lines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you cross the lawn, your footsteps lost among the many you have already taken, you feel a horrible tightness round you heart as if someone had a hand round it and was squeezing. There is a burning at the back your throat, like a lump of tears and bile is stuck there.\n\nThe path sidles away down the side of the main building, taking you away from facades. Here, there are no country house lawns, no sandstone and classical pillars. There are patches of scrubby grass, borders that may perhaps bloom one spring, and scattered buildings that are too perfectly, facelessly functional to have anything of beauty or ugliness to them. There are jaunty painted signs to Cotswold House and Wintle Ward.\n\nVaughan Thomas waits to the west, the Hospital Approach is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the signs", "response": "The signs are big, friendly and helpful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you walk down the path, a human cry breaks upon the silence and dies.\n\nVaughan Thomas Ward is another grey building. It has a bow-window which looks like an ill-at-ease addition to its uniformity. There is also an awkward, spindly tree guarding a nearby bench.\n\nThe door that leads west into Vaughan Thomas has been painted blue. There is a doorbell next to it in industrial grey. The path leading to and from Vaughan Thomas lies to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the doorbell", "response": "Strangely totemic, it has a button for you to press and a grill - such as you might find on the visor of the villain in a sci-fi movie - for you talk into.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to voice", "response": "You mumble your name into the grill, and explain you have come to get Celine. A warped sigh gusts out of the grill with such force you are surprised it doesn't ruffle your hair. Then crackling dies away and the grill speaks to you no further. You assume that that means someone is coming to open the door but for all you know they could be activating the lever that drops you into the alligator pit.\n\nYou are starting to wonder if perhaps they've forgotten you're there, or if answering the doorbell is a mere hobby, when there comes the sound of muted rattling and banging from behind the door as someone on the other side begins the ceremony required to open it. It is finally eased open, just enough for you to squeeze through, by a Nurse, glowering at the effort required to perform the most basic tenets of her job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "As you edge past the Nurse, she put out a log-like arm to momentarily stop you entering. \"You'll need to see the Doctor first,\" she says, gruffly. \"You can't take a patient away without the doctor's permission.\" You nod your understanding, although your mind is full of Escape from Alcatraz visions, search lights flashing, sirens screaming and helicopters whirling overhead as you and Celine run, hand in hand, giggling into a different coloured future.\n\nThere are soft felt pinboards on the wall, above a row of chairs. An over-stacked bookself shoved in the corner and a square table do nothing to break the monotony. The Warneford Hospital has a distinctive smell. It is the smell of a place that very consciously has no smell, underscored by a desperate edge of nicotine.\n\nThis interminably greyish corridor meanders north, west and south. East would take you outside again, through the blue door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bookshelf", "response": "There are overly-rifled paperbacks, yellowed by use, stuffed haphazardly onto the shelves. A quick glance at the spines reveals them to be without exception the kind of airport novels you probably wouldn't want to read even at an airport. Or in a loony bin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The greyness unrolls before you like the tongue of a sick frog. This sign above your head (this is not an exit) reminds you that it's women only past this point, but who is going to see you at this time of night?\n\nIdentical doors, all closed but for the one that stands slightly ajar to the west, line the corridor. Going north will return you to the Vaughan Thomas Corridor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "An inmate - dapper, or as dapper as a man in a mental aslyum can be, sidles up to you. He wrings his hands in constant anxiety. \"I wonder if you could possibly oblige me in a small favour,\" he says. \"I'm terribly embarrassed but I threw my clock radio out of the window because the aliens were talking to me through it and now I cannot listen to classic fm. And I daren't tell the nurses because they will think I did a mad thing. I can pay you back, of course, and if you would take care to get one without an alien transponder, I think it would help. And you won't tell the nurses will you?\" He looks bewildered as he tells his story, as if he caught himself trying to eat soup with the salad fork. You make your promises and he retreats, thanking you profusely.\n\nThere are soft felt pinboards on the wall, above a row of chairs. An over-stacked bookself shoved in the corner and a square table do nothing to break the monotony. The Warneford Hospital has a distinctive smell. It is the smell of a place that very consciously has no smell, underscored by a desperate edge of nicotine.\n\nThis interminably greyish corridor meanders north, west and south. East would take you outside again, through the blue door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is a primitive conservatory of sorts. It is by far the most attractive room in the Warneford, which reflects well on neither the Warneford nor the room. It has wicker chairs and, disconcertingly, there is white-sheeted hospital bed against one of the walls. The square, unbeautiful windows overlook the grounds and currently admit a spill of moonlight the colour of old milk.\n\nThere is a woman curled up on one of the wicker chairs, looking away from you, out over the shadowed grounds.\n\nThe Vaughan Thomas corridor lies to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the woman", "response": "She seems to be at the unforgiving end of the spectrum of middle-age, her face worn and withered by the cold glare of the moon. Shadows emphasise the gauntness of her cheeks and define in cruel charcoal the lines that radiate from her eyes. Her coarse, ash blonde hair falls straight to her waist and hangs like dead weight. Garlands of withered flowers give her the air of an aging hippie. Under your scrutiny, she turns her head in your direction and smiles and you feel a fleeting trace of warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the woman", "response": "Hesitantly you offer a polite greeting and are relieved when the woman turns away from the window and smiles at you in return. If she is an inmate she is, at least, not antisocially mad. \"Hello,\" she says, \"I can see that you're a visitor.\" Her voice is as deep and rich as freshly turned earth. You think of honey-drunk bees and heavy, golden days. \"So am I,\" she says. \"At least, I think I am. It's sometimes so hard to tell.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to woman", "response": "She turns away from you again towards the windows. \"I wish I could make something flourish here,\" she says. \"I can sometimes make things grow but it's not the same.\" She strokes a hand absently through the brittle strands of her hair. \"I miss the colours of things. It all fades so quickly. What's your favourite colour,\" she asks, suddenly, with a glance in your direction. You tell her and she smiles again. \"Of course it is,\" she says. \"Mine is green.\" Same as Celine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the woman", "response": "She is plucking at her skirt. As the fabric moves you realise it isn't grey, as you first thought, but a pale green, all but washed out. \"I'm truly sorry about your friend,\" she says. And there must be a look on your face that makes her add: \"That is why you're here, isn't it?\" Her voice is gentle and her eyes are pale and sad in the moonlight. \"You know you shouldn't have come. She can't leave with you.\" She is silent a moment. When she continues speaking the reassurance in her voice is as warm as sunlight against your skin.\n\"Of course you'll miss her. It will never be easy but it will be easier than this. And one day you'll stop and be surprised at just how easy it is. Then I'm afraid you'll feel guilty but that, too, will pass. As it should.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the woman", "response": "The woman smiles reassuringly at you and her regard travels across your skin, leaving a glissando of fading warmth in its wake. Then she turns away and casts her gaze out of the window again, moonlight etching the lines on her face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Two nurses are standing by the pay phone, talking animatedly about nothing you can catch. It is strange to hear giggles and whispering, as if this was some kind of ordinary place. They fall silent as you approach and then disappear into an office.\n\nThere are soft felt pinboards on the wall, above a row of chairs. An over-stacked bookself shoved in the corner and a square table do nothing to break the monotony. The Warneford Hospital has a distinctive smell. It is the smell of a place that very consciously has no smell, underscored by a desperate edge of nicotine.\n\nThis interminably greyish corridor meanders north, west and south. East would take you outside again, through the blue door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the large, bow-windowed room you could see from outside. Dull light washes in from the corridor behind you and flickers from beneath the door to the television room. Square tables are neatly arranged and the far wall boasts a display of artwork. Upon the air hangs the cloying scent of old, institutional dinners.\n\nThe Doctor's Office lies to the north, the Vaughan Thomas corridor to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is a typical Doctor's office. It has a clinical air, but no more than you would expect. It is really very neat in here. The walls are hung with what look to be modern art prints, all in identical frames, imprisoned behind glass.\n\nThe Doctor is sitting behind the desk, his elbows resting atop it and his chin upon the platform provided by his interlocked fingers.\n\nThe door to the south leads back to the dining hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Doctor", "response": "He seems surprisingly young for his role. His hair is coal black and his eyes only one shade lighter, stark against the white coat that hangs open over an austere pinstriped suit. He has a stern, unlovely face and returns your regard steadily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Doctor", "response": "\"Yes?\" The Doctor's voice is not quite impatient, but the clipped quality of it suggests it very soon will be. \"You know I cannot accede to your ...\" He stops abruptly, as if searching for a word, and settles finally on \"...request\". I suggest you let me send you home, where you belong.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "At your refusal, the Doctor frowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the art", "response": "You look at each of the paintings in turn. They are placed a precise intervals along the grey wall. Each print has the name of the piece and the artist printed along the bottom. First, there is a Rothko, Blue, Green, and Brown. Then IKB 73. And finally Composition in Red, Blue, and Yellow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Doctor", "response": "Before you can speak again, the Doctor forestalls you. \"I'm afraid you will not change my mind with tragic looks or eloquent words. I have seen and heard them all a hundred throusand million times before.\" You wonder, briefly, whether you are supposed to challenge him to a game of chess or, possibly riddles. \"I cannot be tricked,\" he says, as if in answer. \"Nor changed. It is not my nature.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Doctor", "response": "\"Your insistence is as wearisome as it is predictable,\" comments the Doctor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play lyre", "response": "Time seems to unravel around you like the fraying threads of a tapestry as you lift the lyre into your arms. The Doctor is on his on his feet, his face pale with fury and his eyes ablaze, but it's too late to stop you. Music fills the air like cherry blossom, sweetly drifting, falling like fleeting kisses upon the senses and fading as swiftly as a summer evening. For a moment, the Doctor is tranfixed, his face naked in pain and sorrow, and then his cold hands are wrenching the lyre from your grasp. The notes shatter into rainbows of refracted light and then they're gone. There is a vicious crack, like a bone breaking, and the Doctor flings the pieces of the lyre to the floor. In seconds nothing remains of the lyre but a sprinkling of dust the colour of old blood. \"Take her then,\" he cries, \"take her and may damnation have you both. You'll find Celine in the gardens beyond the Sun Room. Take her with you, as you wish, but remember: don't turn around, or she's mine forever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You hear footsteps behind you, slapping like wet fish against the grey hospital floor. You freeze and half-turn but then they recede.\n\nThere are soft felt pinboards on the wall, above a row of chairs. An over-stacked bookself shoved in the corner and a square table do nothing to break the monotony. The Warneford Hospital has a distinctive smell. It is the smell of a place that very consciously has no smell, underscored by a desperate edge of nicotine.\n\nThis interminably greyish corridor meanders north, west and south. East would take you outside again, through the blue door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The greyness unrolls before you like the tongue of a sick frog. This sign above your head (this is not an exit) reminds you that it's women only past this point, but who is going to see you at this time of night?\n\nIdentical doors, all closed but for the one that stands slightly ajar to the west, line the corridor. Going north will return you to the Vaughan Thomas Corridor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The memories of past visits rise up to gnaw at you like wolves. You see Celine, sitting on the bed, the colour washed out of her by her surroundings, her knees pulled up to her chin. Jess is there beside her, back to the wall, feet dangling off the end of the bed. You'd snuck in and you're kneeling on the floor, elbows folded on the coverlet. You're probably pretty damn uncomfortable. Spread out between you are brightly coloured cards. You're playing Once Upon A Time, a game for telling fairytales. \"Are you sure I used to like this?\" Celine is asking. \"Yes,\" you say, \"it's one of your favourites.\" \"You used to win all the time,\" Jess adds. Celine laughs, uncertain. \"That doesn't seem very likely,\" she says. \"It'll come back,\" you say, half-reassuring, half-pleading. Except it, of course, doesn't. None of it does.\n\nA small, perfectly square, yellow-painted room, probably identical to all the others on this corridor. The carpet is a greyish-blue, only slightly stained. There is a pine-coloured wardrobe and bedside table, a single bed and a chair. There are signs of occupation - the black cardigan hanging on the back of the chair, books and a radio on the bedside table - but it's not the kind of room you can personalise. It is a transitory space. Above the bed, the wall is splashed with a grid of cards and postcards, twenty or thirty of them maybe, pinned up there as bright as butterfly wings.\n\nYou can see the Women's Corridor through the door to the east.\n\nOn the narrow strip of a windowsill is a houseplant, another daub of colour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the houseplant", "response": "This is Sylvia (after Sylvia Plath who also, we know, went mad), an Anthurium with dark red flowers, all Georgia o'Keefe. It was a gift you nearly weren't permitted to give because of the toxic leaves. \"No committing suicide by eating Sylvia,\" you said, pretending to admonish. And how Celine had laughed. \"I promise not to kill myself by eating an anthurium,\" she said with mock solemnitude, knowing at least ten better ways to do it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Sylvia", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A young-ish, not entirely unpretty woman, who steals from the other inmates and has no visitors, is staring blankly out of a window at the shadow-sloshed world outside. She turns, smiles hopefully and shyly at you and then flees. You try to feel more kindness towards her but she pilfered Celine's favourite perfume.\n\nThere are soft felt pinboards on the wall, above a row of chairs. An over-stacked bookself shoved in the corner and a square table do nothing to break the monotony. The Warneford Hospital has a distinctive smell. It is the smell of a place that very consciously has no smell, underscored by a desperate edge of nicotine.\n\nThis interminably greyish corridor meanders north, west and south. East would take you outside again, through the blue door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a primitive conservatory of sorts. It is by far the most attractive room in the Warneford, which reflects well on neither the Warneford nor the room. It has wicker chairs and, disconcertingly, there is white-sheeted hospital bed against one of the walls. The square, unbeautiful windows overlook the grounds and currently admit a spill of moonlight the colour of old milk.\n\nNow you notice a set of doors at the back of the room have been flung wide open, drawing you like a beckoning finger, west, towards the shadow-smothered gardens.\n\nThe Vaughan Thomas corridor lies to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Somebody tried. Here there are the elements of a garden. Grass, although it is mainly mud. Banks of soil where perhaps flowers might grow. Squatting shrubs, hunched in upon themselves. And in silhouette the anorexic shapes of trees, stripped before the oncoming winter. Moonlight forms puddles here and there.\n\nThe Sun room waits to the east.\n\nCeline is sitting on a stone bench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Celine", "response": "Ok.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The silence of the hospital surrounds you like an itchy blanket.\n\nThere are soft felt pinboards on the wall, above a row of chairs. An over-stacked bookself shoved in the corner and a square table do nothing to break the monotony. The Warneford Hospital has a distinctive smell. It is the smell of a place that very consciously has no smell, underscored by a desperate edge of nicotine.\n\nThis interminably greyish corridor meanders north, west and south. East would take you outside again, through the blue door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A small, perfectly square, yellow-painted room, probably identical to all the others on this corridor. The carpet is a greyish-blue, only slightly stained. There is a pine-coloured wardrobe and bedside table, a single bed and a chair. There are signs of occupation - the black cardigan hanging on the back of the chair, books and a radio on the bedside table - but it's not the kind of room you can personalise. It is a transitory space. Above the bed, the wall is splashed with a grid of cards and postcards, twenty, thirty, forty of them maybe, pinned up there as bright as butterfly wings.\n\nYou can see the Women's Corridor through the door to the east.\n\nOn the narrow strip of a windowsill is a houseplant, another daub of colour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cardigan", "response": "An ankle-length black wool cardigan, thick and soft, the sort of garment you could curl up inside and feel comforted. You think it was a present from John. The smell of the Warneford and cigarette smoke clings to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the radio", "response": "You thought it might help her pass the difficult, interminable hours. It didn't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cardigan", "response": "You don't want the cardigan. When her parents came to take everything that was left of her, you told yourself that people were not their things. You have to keep believing that because otherwise you'll have nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "One of Celine's few friends (one to whom you have lost endless games of Scrabble) passes you with a nod and a greeting. \"I'm very much looking forward to the coping with psychosis workshop tomorrow,\" he comments, with a look so wry and self-knowing you cannot help but laugh. He waves and vanishes into his room.\n\nThere are soft felt pinboards on the wall, above a row of chairs. An over-stacked bookself shoved in the corner and a square table do nothing to break the monotony. The Warneford Hospital has a distinctive smell. It is the smell of a place that very consciously has no smell, underscored by a desperate edge of nicotine.\n\nThis interminably greyish corridor meanders north, west and south. East would take you outside again, through the blue door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a primitive conservatory of sorts. It is by far the most attractive room in the Warneford, which reflects well on neither the Warneford nor the room. It has wicker chairs and, disconcertingly, there is white-sheeted hospital bed against one of the walls. The square, unbeautiful windows overlook the grounds and currently admit a spill of moonlight the colour of old milk.\n\nNow you notice a set of doors at the back of the room have been flung wide open, drawing you like a beckoning finger, west, towards the shadow-smothered gardens.\n\nThe Vaughan Thomas corridor lies to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Somebody tried. Here there are the elements of a garden. Grass, although it is mainly mud. Banks of soil where perhaps flowers might grow. Squatting shrubs, hunched in upon themselves. And in silhouette the anorexic shapes of trees, stripped before the oncoming winter. Moonlight forms puddles here and there.\n\nThe Sun room waits to the east.\n\nCeline is sitting on a stone bench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Celine", "response": "Celine is beautiful but not today. The monochrome palette of the Warneford has wrung her out. Her clothes are too black, her skin is too pale, her eyes too dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Celine", "response": "Celine smiles to see you, convincing gladness, desperate eyes. You exchange the usual greetings, the usual enquiries, and, as ever, she thanks you for coming to see her, as if it is a kind and wonderful thing and not a terrible strain for both of you. You tell her silly stories of the colour of the October leaves and how much you're looking forward to the blossom trees. She listens, and laughs, and pretends.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Celine", "response": "Celine is not feeling so good and will only tell you so if you press her. She has - quite literally - forgotten the way home, along with everything she learned on her art history course last term. She has forgotten the tombstone cake you made for Jess's birthday. She has forgotten Rick's parents are dead. She has forgotten the entirety of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It'll come back, you tell her, don't worry, and anyway we can watch it all over again - think how much fun that'll be. She listens, and laughs, and pretends.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Celine", "response": "Celine tells you her secrets, the ones she hasn't forgotten, the ones you wish she could forget, the ones she has forgotten you already know. You try to make it okay with your words. And Celine listens, and laughs, and pretends.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Celine", "response": "Suddenly you remember. It's time to go home. \"Will you follow me?\" you ask, and Celine nods. She seems only a little afraid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Celine", "response": "\"You will follow me, won't you?\" you say again and Celine assures you she will.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is a primitive conservatory of sorts. It is by far the most attractive room in the Warneford, which reflects well on neither the Warneford nor the room. It has wicker chairs and, disconcertingly, there is white-sheeted hospital bed against one of the walls. The square, unbeautiful windows overlook the grounds and currently admit a spill of moonlight the colour of old milk.\n\nAs you enter the sunroom from the gardens, your own footsteps sound on the floor but you hear no others. Perhaps Celine has not followed as promised she would.\n\nThe Vaughan Thomas corridor lies to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "There are soft felt pinboards on the wall, above a row of chairs. An over-stacked bookself shoved in the corner and a square table do nothing to break the monotony. The Warneford Hospital has a distinctive smell. It is the smell of a place that very consciously has no smell, underscored by a desperate edge of nicotine.\n\nYou strain to hear even the slightest hint of movement but there is nothing, nothing at all. Perhaps you have been tricked. Yes, that seems very likely.\n\nThis interminably greyish corridor meanders north, west and south. East would take you outside again, through the blue door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You look around for the nurse but then notice that the door seems to be standing very slightly ajar. You seize the opportunity and slip through\nVaughan Thomas Exterior\nVaughan Thomas Ward is another grey building. It has a bow-window which looks like an ill-at-ease addition to its uniformity. There is also an awkward, spindly tree guarding a nearby bench.\n\nThe only thing that follows you now, it seems, is silence.\n\nThe door that leads west into Vaughan Thomas has been painted blue. There is a doorbell next to it in industrial grey. The path leading to and from Vaughan Thomas lies to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The path sidles away down the side of the main building, taking you away from facades. Here, there are no country house lawns, no sandstone and classical pillars. There are patches of scrubby grass, borders that may perhaps bloom one spring, and scattered buildings that are too perfectly, facelessly functional to have anything of beauty or ugliness to them. There are jaunty painted signs to Cotswold House and Wintle Ward.\n\nVaughan Thomas waits to the west, the Hospital Approach is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Here on the Warneford lawn again you can see a streak of lightness at the eastern edge of the sky. Behind you, a smear of gold and grey, is the Warneford. Before you, to the northwest, the wrought iron gates, as tall as thistles to a child, inevitably sealed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You can't, the gates bar your way, as insurmountable as death itself. All you can do now is turn around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the gates", "response": "there will be no opening them. The metal tears at the skin of your hands and you send a chorus of clattering to the silent sky. They are securely sealed and there is no forcing them. You can't go back, you can't go through them. It's time to turn around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn around", "response": "You turn around slowly, as you know you inevitably must. Celine is standing behind you, smiling. The rising sun gleams upon her hair and in her eyes, her cheeks flushed with the first light of dawn. The grass at her feet is a carpet of flowers and as you rush into her opening arms you find yourself clutching at nothing but a flurry of petals the colour of her lipstick.\n\nMarlborough Road looks exactly as it did when you left it, except it is greyish in the dawn. It seems you have been wandering all night long. Your house is dark and quiet behind its curtained windows, as if it has closed its eyes. The world waits at your back, the front door lies ahead, waiting for you to open it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "As you reach out to the door handle, a flash of colour catches your eye. There is a flower petal stuck to your palm. Shaken free by your movement, it drifts to the ground, gleaming briefly in the gloom. The door swings open and you step inside, into neither emptiness nor cold, and your hand warm as if someone holds it still.\n\nWould you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, QUIT or UNDO the last command?", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Horror" ]

[ "Demon", "devil", "escape", "Evil protagonist", "IFComp 2015", "IFComp Game", "library", "male protagonist", "present tense", "second person", "torture", "undead", "vampire", "violence", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2015" ]

[ 2, 10, 7, 3, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You open your eyes, feeling alive again, after being... dead?\n\nWho are you? You need time to remember.\n\nIt's dark, but you can see.\n\nYou are in a sinister place, you should be frightened. Or not?\n\nYou are unbearably thirsty, but not for water.\n\nDarkiss 1: The Awakening\n\nOriginally written in Italian and then translated into English Licensed under a CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International License\n\nCrypt (in the coffin)\nHidden in the bowels of the mountain, this chamber has hosted your immortal body for centuries, while your enemies spent their miserable days hunting you down at your castle. The coffin is on a stone pedestal at the centre of the room. On the ceiling is a fresco of the red sun of Valmar. To the east a narrow tunnel leads to the other rooms of your hideout.\n\nYou're lying in the coffin, very weak. You struggle to keep your eyes open, while your necrotic flesh is recovering its former appearance. You feel a stab of pain, when you remember the stake drove through your heart. You should be dead, but you aren't. Something happened.\n\n[For instructions type INFO and press return.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You're the nightmare from which people can't wake.\n\nDead twice. One by the hand of your maker, the second by the fiend who drove a stake through your heart while you were sleeping defenceless in your coffin.\n\nAlive thrice, it seems, although this last one shouldn't be possible. Something happened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour suit\nyour boots", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the suit", "response": "You are wearing a suit black like the darkness.\n\nThere's a key in a pocket of the suit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the key", "response": "You can use it to unlock a locked door or something similar, if you find the right keyhole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boots", "response": "Your boots are black and ready to step on everyone who dares to cross your way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the coffin", "response": "The coffin in which you are lying is cold and dark enough to satisfy a prince of darkness like you. It's almost a pity to leave it, but you have to get out to recover your energy and exact your revenge.\n\nThe coffin is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You get out of the coffin.\n\nHidden in the bowels of the mountain, this chamber has hosted your immortal body for centuries, while your enemies spent their miserable days hunting you down at your castle. The coffin is on a stone pedestal at the centre of the room. On the ceiling is a fresco of the red sun of Valmar. To the east a narrow tunnel leads to the other rooms of your hideout.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at fresco", "response": "Painted on the ceiling shines the red sun of Valmar that lights up the dark nights of the vampires with its eight evil rays.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pedestal", "response": "The coffin lies on a massive block of black stone on which your name has been engraved: \"Martin Voigt\". There is also the ancient motto: \"Nemo me impune lacessit\". An expression that you reread with particular pleasure, waiting to transform it into a lethal reality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "You're walking through the east-west tunnel which connects the crypt with the other rooms of the hideout. It is a narrow passage of irregular stone that nobody had dared to walk through before the arrival of the fools who (temporarily) put an end to your life.\n\nHow much time has passed since then? Who cares! What are days, weeks, months, even years against the recovered eternity that will allow you to destroy your puny enemies and drink to their death in the next millennium?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stone", "response": "You're walking through the east-west tunnel which connects the crypt with the other rooms of the hideout. It is a narrow passage of irregular stone that nobody had dared to walk through before the arrival of the fools who (temporarily) put an end to your life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "You've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere.\n\nWhile you look around trying to remember something more about yourself, hundreds of little yellow eyes seem to stare malevolently at you, without recognising you as the ancient master of this creepy dungeon. But when you regain your strength, a billion sinister wing beats will clap for the return of the prince of darkness.\n\nTo the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nAt the centre of the chamber, on a low pedestal of grey stone, you can see a white wooden coffin, decorated with the images of red roses and the letters S. C.\n\nThe coffin is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bats", "response": "Probably the bats were drawn by yourself. You have always had a passion for painting that over the centuries you have been able to cultivate with great effort, achieving - as in this case - remarkable results. At the moment you don't remember for which reason you decided to cover the walls with bats, however there are a lot, although you can't say exactly how many. By the way, you can try to count them, if you want.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You count the bats", "response": "Led by a sudden curiosity, you start to count the bats drawn on the walls to know exactly how many they are. However, after a while, you lose count and have to start over again. Your excellent sight in the dark is still too weak and you can't focus for more than a few seconds. At the end, there seem to be 103 bats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the coffin", "response": "A deeper examination of the coffin reveals that it is the place in which your latest lover rested. A graceful girl named Sabrina, with whom you spent exquisitely pleasant moments, slowly sucking her veins dry while she waited for the dark gift that would make her eternally young and beautiful.\n\nBut you enjoyed drinking her sweet blood too much to decide to turn her into a vampire. Every day you ordered your minions to take care of her, making her recover the energy lost during the past night with banquets and transfusions, so that you could drink again at the delicious spring of her jugular, when the sun set. In order to make her available at all times, you had even brought her to your hideout, hosting her in this wooden coffin that you decorated yourself so beautifully.\n\nWho knows if she managed to escape the fury of your persecutors. However, the fact that the coffin lid, usually open, has been closed and firmly nailed down doesn't bode well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The unpleasant sensation of not being alone is the first thing you felt when you entered this room. Painted on the walls, the floor and the ceiling, the giant spiders that surround you make for a rather disquieting company, even for you. Although perfectly still and little more than stylised drawings, they appear to be extraordinarily alive with shiny yellow eyes and wide open mandibles, ready to tangle you up in the huge web that envelops the room to devour you like a bug.\n\nTo the south you may return to the bats room, to the east and to the west you can explore other rooms of the hideout, to the north you see a solid iron door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "What combination do you want to try to open the door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The solid iron door at the centre of the northern wall seems to be the panel of a giant safe. Without keyhole, in its centre it has four small wheels with numbers from 0 to 9 that, knowing the right combination, should serve to open the door by turning the handle set at their side. Unfortunately you have no idea what the combination could be. You only know that you never succeeded in memorizing it, so it's possible that you've left a hint somewhere to remember it.\n\nThe door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the web", "response": "As the bats, also these spiders have been drawn by you. You have always had a passion for painting that over the centuries you have been able to cultivate with great effort, achieving - as in this case - remarkable results. At the moment you don't remember for which reason you decided to cover the walls with spiders, however there are a lot, although you should not know to say exactly how many. By the way, you can try to count them, if you want.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You count the spiders", "response": "Led by a sudden curiosity, you start to count the spiders drawn on the walls to know exactly how many they are. However, after a while, you lose count and have to start over again. Your excellent sight in the dark is still too weak and you cannot focus for more than a few seconds. At the end, there seem to be 69 spiders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "There are so many books on the shelves of your library that, for a moment, it seems really incredible that you have read, or even just browsed through, all of them. Then you remember you have always been a voracious reader: over the centuries these books have been your best friends, helping you with their engaging stories to cope with the loneliness in which every vampire is forced to spend most of his life.\n\nAt the centre of the room is a desk still covered with papers; behind it you can see a priceless human-skin armchair. To the east you return to the spiders room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Actually the amount of books that you see here is only a small part of that, certainly bigger, collection that you amassed over the centuries in the library room of your castle. However, between the most recent volumes, there are all the most famous vampire tales written by Bram Stoker, Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu, John William Polidori, Charles Nodier, Marcel Schwob, Stanislaus Eric Stenbock, Julian Osgood Field, Anne Rice, Richard R. McCammon and Fred Saberhagen.\n\nThere are also the frightful stories of Edgar Allan Poe, Ambrose Bierce, Howard Phillips Lovecraft, Stephen King, Clive Barker and the delirious works of Franz Kafka, Tommaso Landolfi and Dino Buzzati.\n\nHowever there is no trace of the Necronomicon, the black magic book that you used to celebrate profane rites and bloody tributes to Valmar and the other mighty gods of the night. You seem to recall that you left it in the library room of your castle. Then you realise with horror that it might have been stolen by your killers. Eventually, you convince yourself that you must have hidden it somewhere else, although you don't remember where.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the armchair", "response": "The human skin armchair is a piece of furniture of inestimable value. Actually you don't even remember whom you skinned to make it, but surely it had to be one of your arch-enemies, so every time you sit in it you feel a great pleasure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on it", "response": "You have too many thing to do to flop out on the armchair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "Many of the papers scattered on the desk are the purchase agreements of the houses that you bought all over the world, to have a secure shelter everywhere. However, between the agreements, you find a paper with a mysterious word written on it: \"SBYS\". Surely a note you took to remind yourself of an important thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "Under the surface of the desk (still covered with papers) you see a drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "You open the drawer, revealing a medallion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the medallion", "response": "The medallion has your name carved on: \"Martin Voigt\". It is attached to a small chain that allows to wear it.\n\nSuddenly it comes to your mind that there should be a secret passage in the library room, behind a shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the medallion", "response": "(first taking the medallion)\nYou put on the medallion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelf", "response": "Placed on the walls, the shelves of your library are full of the books that you read over the centuries, to fight the loneliness that grips every vampire.\n\nThere are some scratches on the floor, near the western shelf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the western shelf", "response": "You are still too weak to move one of the shelves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scratches", "response": "The scratches on the floor are near the western shelf.\n\nSuddenly it comes to your mind that \"SBYS\" may mean Snakes by Spiders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search papers", "response": "Many of the papers scattered on the desk are the purchase agreements of the houses that you bought all over the world, to have a secure shelter everywhere. However, between the agreements, you find a paper with a mysterious word written on it: \"SBYS\". Surely a note you took to remind yourself of an important thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Painted on the walls, the floor and the ceiling, the giant spiders that surround you make for a rather disquieting company, even for you. Although perfectly still and little more than stylised drawings, they appear to be extraordinarily alive with shiny yellow eyes and wide open mandibles.\n\nTo the south you may return to the bats room, to the east and to the west you can explore other rooms of the hideout, to the north you see a solid iron door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in a small painted black room that appears to be a temple. You can see a kneeling stool in front of a large painting with a golden frame, hung on the back wall. The subject of the picture is a very beautiful lady, with a pale face and long dark hair, who stares at you with a sensual expression. After a moment, you remember she is Lilith, the gorgeous and cruel vampire who, more than a thousand years ago, threw you in this bloody abyss of darkness, letting you drink her blood after having pierced your jugular with her long, sharp canines so many times.\n\nMuch time has passed since then, but you never forgot the encounter that changed your life (and your death) forever. Hence you created this place of prayer to keep in contact with her, certain that one day Lilith will answer to your invocations and return to you. To the west a passage leads to the spiders room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You join your hands and start to pray for the return of Lilith, without anything happening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the painting", "response": "Probably it was you who painted this picture, to keep a memory of the image of the woman who turned you into an immortal creature with great powers. Lilith was really wonderful and you fell in love at first sight. You were 26 years old when she appeared, and you had already had much experience with women. As the young descendant of one of the richest family in the region, you were the object of desire of all the girls of the territory, who did all that they could to get your attention. To you, one was equal to the other, you continuously changed lovers to gather new experience, thinking only of having as much fun as possible. When Lilith arrived, everything changed.\n\nThe first time you saw her was at a party thrown by your family to let you meet new people, in the hope that you would eventually meet the woman of your life. She came to the house in the evening, with a cousin whose name you didn't even remember. She was very beautiful and her unusual vivacity fascinated you immediately. The freshness of her appearance made her look very young, but she talked as if she were already highly experienced. When you finally managed to be alone with her, you took her hand for a walk in the woods, where nobody would disturb you.\n\nYou thought that such an exuberant girl wouldn't have any objections about there in the woods, away from prying eyes. Instead it was her who took you. When you saw her eyes change their colour to red like two rubies and her cuspids become monstrously long fangs, it was too late to go back. However you are grateful to Lilith for not allowing you to run away. You could have never imagined the pleasure you felt when she pierced your neck with her teeth and sucked your blood almost to the last drop.\n\nLilith disappeared right after, but she came back to meet you many other nights, in your house garden or directly in your room, when you would open the window and invite her to come in and drink your blood again. Even she grew fond of you: after drinking your blood for weeks, to prevent your death she decided to give you the dark gift that would turn you into an immortal night wanderer. Then she vanished forever, leaving you to your destiny with the memory of her fiery eyes and eager lips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stool", "response": "On this kneeling stool you spent entire nights praying for the return of Lilith. On the shelf you also carved the phrase \"Gutta cavat lapidem\" to spur you to persist and not lose hope of finding your lover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move painting", "response": "It's better to leave that at its stead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Painted on the walls, the floor and the ceiling, the giant spiders that surround you make for a rather disquieting company, even for you. Although perfectly still and little more than stylised drawings, they appear to be extraordinarily alive with shiny yellow eyes and wide open mandibles.\n\nTo the south you may return to the bats room, to the east and to the west you can explore other rooms of the hideout, to the north you see a solid iron door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere. To the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nAt the centre of the chamber, on a low pedestal of grey stone, you can see the white wooden coffin, in which Sabrina, your latest lover, rested. It is decorated with the images of red roses and the letters S. C.\n\nThe coffin is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You try to go to east, but you have to halt when you see the big white cross painted on the floor. An obstacle that is insurmountable for you, placed by someone who wants to prevent you from leaving your hideout.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cross", "response": "Simply frightening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Summon sabrina", "response": "First you should open the coffin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "If you weren't more than accustomed to horrific views of death and destruction, what is under your feet would make you jump back. Painted on the floor, snakes of every colour and size crawl and coil on each other, creating an apparently entangled mess. Some of them also climb onto the walls, brushing against the ceiling and making seemingly meaningless drawings.\n\nWhile you look at the forked tongues projecting out of their mouths, you seem to hear them hissing: they curse those who reduced you to such a miserable form and ask for your return onto the throne of darkness. To the north there is the passage that goes to the bats room, to the south a solid wooden door (without a keyhole), to the east and to the west the entrances to two other rooms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You count the snakes", "response": "Led by a sudden curiosity, you start to count the snakes drawn on the floor to know exactly how many they are. However, after a while, you lose count and have to start over again. Your excellent sight in the dark is still too weak and you can't focus for more than a few seconds. At the end, there seem to be 104 snakes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snakes", "response": "As the bats and the spiders, also these snakes were drawn by yourself. You have always had a passion for painting that over the centuries you have been able to cultivate with great effort, achieving - as in this case - remarkable results. At the moment you don't remember for which reason you decided to cover the walls with snakes, however there are a lot, although you can't say exactly how many.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "The solid wooden door on the southern wall of the snakes room is curiously without any keyhole. However, at its side is a lever that may allow you to open (and close) it.\n\nThe door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "It seems to be stuck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lever", "response": "The lever is in the high position, you can try to pull it and set it in the low position.\n\nAt its side is a slot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine slot", "response": "The slot is a little vertical opening near the door.\n\nIt's possible to insert something into it, if you have an object small enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Although many years have passed since the last time you used these amazing devices of pain and death, the torture chamber still smells of the fear and blood of the poor wretches that ended up here. If you concentrate, you can hear their screams, which still gives you a fit of pleasure.\n\nA threatening iron maiden is at the centre of the room. Between the chains hanging from the ceiling, you see a breaking wheel and a pillory. There is also a rusty cage, in which you enjoyed to lock - this you remember well - the mates of the people you were torturing. So they could see what they would soon endure. To the east you may return to the snakes room.\n\nYou can see a bottle of liquor and a black leather mask here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mask", "response": "This is the leather mask that you liked to wear while you tortured your prisoners. Painted on it there is a horrible skull, which makes it even more frightful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the liquor", "response": "With this bottle of liquor you liked to disinfect the wounds of your prisoners, after scattering salt on them. On the label there is a skull that is a quite significant indicator of its alcohol by volume.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "Around you, there is an absolute and distressing silence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mask and the bottle", "response": "black leather mask: Taken.\nbottle of liquor: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "In this cage you used to lock up your prisoners to show them the horrible tortures that you inflicted on their mates.\n\nThe cage is closed.\n\nIn the cage is a skeleton.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skeleton", "response": "Looking at those fetid bones, you suddenly remember the reverend Maximilian Bauer. Another fool who ignited your anger by attempting to destroy you with an exorcism. You sentenced him to be eaten alive by rats. Probably, when you caught him and locked in the cage, he thought he would be \"only\" tortured and killed by starvation, as many others before him. But you felt so inspired that night that you decided to use your telepathic powers to set up a memorable execution. It is impossible to forget his face when he saw the horde of rats entering the torture chamber and then filling up the cage, feasting upon him...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the maiden", "response": "Considered one of the most amazing torture devices in human history, the iron maiden is an iron cabinet with a hinged front and spike-covered interior, tall enough to accommodate a human being. The spikes can pierce the victim's body without damaging the vital organs, thus causing the victim to slowly and dreadfully bleed to death. Actually, your prisoners had already bled dry enough at the time when you locked them up in the iron maiden. However it was wonderful to listen to their cries while the spikes tore them apart.\n\nThe iron maiden is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the iron maiden. It's empty, but the view of the spikes is delicious.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the spikes", "response": "The spikes are rusty, blood encrusted, very long and sharp... It's really a pity you have no prisoner to close into the iron maiden.\n\nThere is some blonde hair caught on the spikes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hair", "response": "The long blonde hair you are looking at probably belonged to Sandra Koch. She was a vampire hunter who wanted to revenge the death of her sister Samantha, killed by you in Vienna. Captured by your servants while she was looking for your hideout, she indeed found you but this wasn't good news for her.\n\nStruck by her beauty and her rebel attitude, you spent a lot of nights drinking her blood and torturing her endlessly, pulling out of her every kind of shriek. Eventually she asked for death as a relief and you decided to give her a really impressive execution, locking her up in the iron maiden.\n\nProbably, when you got her out of it, some hair got caught on the spikes. You cut her body to pieces and gave it to the wolves that infested the mountain slope, then you smiled and shouted in the night: \"Next!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take hair", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wheel", "response": "The breaking wheel looks painful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pillory", "response": "The pillory is secured to the floor with a sturdy iron base.\n\nThe pillory is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "In this cage you used to lock up your prisoners to show them the horrible tortures that you inflicted on their mates.\n\nThe cage is closed.\n\nIn the cage is a skeleton.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Painted on the floor, snakes of every colour and size crawl and coil on each other, creating an apparently entangled mess. Some of them also climb onto the walls, brushing against the ceiling and making seemingly meaningless drawings. To the north there is the passage that goes to the bats room, to the south a solid wooden door (without a keyhole), to the east and to the west the entrances to two other rooms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are in a room lacking decorations that seems to be a sort a storage room, where you kept your clothes and the tools that you could need when you were in action. A big wardrobe is on the back wall, while on the floor you see a heavy chest. To the west you may return to the snakes room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wardrobe", "response": "It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the wardrobe, revealing a black cloak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cloak", "response": "With this black cloak on, you carried out your bloodiest actions, spreading terror all over the world and destroying anyone who dared to oppose your dark supremacy. The view of it alone gives you strength and you are sure that wearing it again could help you regain all your energy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cloak", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "You wear the cloak and you feel stronger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the mask", "response": "Wearing the mask you can still feel the smell of the blood and the fear of the prisoners whom you tortured.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open chest", "response": "You open the chest, revealing an axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the axe", "response": "Your eyes shine while you look at the axe you used to cut to pieces the corpses of your victims, before feeding them to the wolves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Painted on the floor, snakes of every colour and size crawl and coil on each other, creating an apparently entangled mess. Some of them also climb onto the walls, brushing against the ceiling and making seemingly meaningless drawings. To the north there is the passage that goes to the bats room, to the south a solid wooden door (without a keyhole), to the east and to the west the entrances to two other rooms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You count the snakes", "response": "You aren't convinced that the snakes are exactly 104, so you decide to count them again. Even this time you have to do many attempts to complete the task, but maybe it has been worth because now you know the snakes are 103, instead of 104.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Painted on the walls, the floor and the ceiling, the giant spiders that surround you make for a rather disquieting company, even for you. Although perfectly still and little more than stylised drawings, they appear to be extraordinarily alive with shiny yellow eyes and wide open mandibles.\n\nTo the south you may return to the bats room, to the east and to the west you can explore other rooms of the hideout, to the north you see a solid iron door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You count the spiders", "response": "You aren't convinced that the spiders are exactly 69, so you decide to count them again. Even this time you have to do many attempts to complete the task, but maybe it has been worth because now you know the spiders are 70, instead of 69.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wheel", "response": "Actually you needn't bother with the small wheels and the handle: in order to attempt to open the door, just type \"open door\" and then enter the combination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "What combination do you want to try to open the door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "7210", "response": "The door opens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Your hideout wouldn't be complete without a place for storing your treasures. Your minions have always been too curious and bold for your liking, so you had this big and impregnable safe made that, as you predicted, perfectly resisted the attack of your killers. The room is indeed full of treasures. Maybe, if you had also protected the access to your crypt with such a security door, you wouldn't have ended up so bad.\n\nActually, you're almost glad to have been murdered so horribly because, now that you are alive again, you can plan a terrible revenge. To the south you may return to the spiders room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the treasures", "response": "The treasures stored in this room form a shiny heap of golden and silver coins, jewels, precious stones, that overflows the chests and covers almost all the floor, with paintings, sculptures and other items of inestimable value. It is a wealth conquered in over one thousand years of life, that also includes a lot of houses scattered all over the world, that you will soon haunt again.\n\nPlunging your eyes and hands in your treasures, you recover your beloved Stradivarius violin, an exquisite piece of art that you've played for centuries, in your happiest moments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the violin", "response": "Ah, here is your fabulous Stradivarius violin. A really exquisite piece of your collection of treasures stolen all around the world. Music and musical instruments are among the things you love most.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play violin", "response": "(first taking the violin)\nTo play the violin you should have the bow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the treasures", "response": "The treasures stored in this room form a shiny heap of golden and silver coins, jewels, precious stones, that overflows the chests and covers almost all the floor, with paintings, sculptures and other items of inestimable value. It is a wealth conquered in over one thousand years of life, that also includes a lot of houses scattered all over the world, that you will soon haunt again.\n\nSearching well in your treasures, you also find the violin bow. However, the horsehair bundle is gravely frayed and it's unlikely that you can play the violin with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the hair to the bow", "response": "Attempting to repair the frayed bundle of the bow with the hair found in the iron maiden is a really complicated work. However, at the end, you seem to have done a good job that could allow you to play the violin again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the violin", "response": "To play the violin you should have the bow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the treasure", "response": "The treasures stored in this room form a shiny heap of golden and silver coins, jewels, precious stones, that overflows the chests and covers almost all the floor, with paintings, sculptures and other items of inestimable value. It is a wealth conquered in over one thousand years of life, that also includes a lot of houses scattered all over the world, that you will soon haunt again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere. To the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nAt the centre of the chamber, on a low pedestal of grey stone, you can see the white wooden coffin, in which Sabrina, your latest lover, rested. It is decorated with the images of red roses and the letters S. C.\n\nThe coffin is closed.\n\nA big white cross painted on the floor blocks the passage that goes to east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Painted on the floor, snakes of every colour and size crawl and coil on each other, creating an apparently entangled mess. Some of them also climb onto the walls, brushing against the ceiling and making seemingly meaningless drawings. To the north there is the passage that goes to the bats room, to the south a solid wooden door (without a keyhole), to the east and to the west the entrances to two other rooms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop coffin", "response": "You hit the coffin with your axe, starting to break the decorated lid. You go on with the demolition until you see what remains of what, once, was the body of a beautiful girl. So, Sabrina was buried alive in her own coffin. Your killers hadn't even shown some mercy for a defenceless girl. They killed her in so horrible a way that shall be revenged, along with your horrific execution, as soon as possible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Sabrina", "response": "The corpse is in an advanced state of decay: it's difficult to recognize the forms and the lineaments of the beautiful lady who had the honour to rest near you in your hideout. Now, she's naked, bald, with hands and feet tied, a big \"V\" branded on her forehead and the mouth open in a mute scream of desperation. Before being buried alive, Sabrina must have suffered every kind of atrocity: these tortures must be revenged as your horrific execution must.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the medallion in the slot", "response": "(before you remove the medallion)\n\nYou insert the medallion into the slot, leaving the small chain hanging along the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "You hear a click when you pull the lever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the medallion", "response": "The medallion is stuck into the slot: no matter how hard you pull its chain, it doesn't seem to come out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Many of the wretches that wanted to put an end to your atrocities spent their last hours of life here, waiting to see what fate they would face, after daring to oppose to your wicked supremacy. Caught by your minions on the mountain slope, while they tried to achieve their silly goals, they had been locked up in this narrow cell and left in the deepest darkness for days and nights, without food and water, until you felt inspired enough to take care of them. The walls, the ceiling, the floor and also the door have been covered with graffiti - some of which written in blood - that report curses and prayers of every kind, all unheard, seemingly. The exit that leads to the snakes room is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the graffiti", "response": "Among the innumerable and delirious messages written on the cell walls, you find something interesting: a magic formula that seems to have the power to summon the spirits of the dead from the netherworld.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the formula", "response": "Reciting this magic formula, you should have the power to summon the spirits of the dead from the netherworld.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Painted on the floor, snakes of every colour and size crawl and coil on each other, creating an apparently entangled mess. Some of them also climb onto the walls, brushing against the ceiling and making seemingly meaningless drawings. To the north there is the passage that goes to the bats room, to the south a solid wooden door (without a keyhole), to the east and to the west the entrances to two other rooms.\n\nThe small chain of your medallion hangs from the slot at the side of the lever, near the wooden door on the south wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere. To the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nAt the centre of the room is the demolished coffin in which lies the decayed corpse of your latest lover, Sabrina.\n\nA big white cross painted on the floor blocks the passage that goes to east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recite", "response": "What do you want to recite?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recite the formula", "response": "First you should learn it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You learn the formula", "response": "You learn the magic formula to summon the spirits from the netherworld. Now, to verify if it works, you just have to recite it in an appropriate place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recite formula", "response": "Stretching out your arms to receive the occult forces that you are going to summon, you recite the magic formula found among the graffiti in the cell. A mysterious sorcery that you didn't know before today. However, it seems to work well: when you finish to utter the words of the formula, Sabrina's ghost appears in front of you, exiting from the mouth of her corpse.\n\n\"Oh, Martin!\" exclaims the sepulchral apparition. \"Have you seen what those bastards did to me? It was professor Anderson and his gang, those who already came to look for you at my village. They eventually found our hideout. They arrived to the camp in the morning. They were a lot and well-armed, your minions were taken by surprise and they were overpowered and slain in few hours.\"\n\n\"I was spared only to suffer a worse fate\" continues the spectre. \"They knew who I was and said that I would have a special treatment. They ripped my clothes off and shaved my hair off, before whipping me and beating me up to allow me to 'expiate my sins'. Then they branded me with the vampire symbol. When they brought me here, I had gone through so much pain I couldn't stay on foot. Before burying me alive in the coffin, they forced me to attend your execution and that was the most horrible moment.\"\n\n\"I tried to advise you of their coming\" says Sabrina after a pause caused by the tension that those terrible memories still cause in her. \"I shouted and shouted with all my breath, while we walked through the tunnel leading to your crypt. But you were sleeping, you couldn't wake up, so they killed you merciless. Now, seeing you alive again is a great joy for me because I'm sure that my death will be revenged together with yours and who did us wrong will die in horrible pain. Maybe, one day, you'll find the way to get me out of this damned place, where there's no escape from suffering and everything burns, burns, buuurns!\"\n\nSuddenly Sabrina's corpse and the coffin catch fire in front of you, as if they have been reached by the same hell flames that tortured the girl's soul. While you look at the fire burning up, you seem to see Sabrina's spirit leave this reality to return to the netherworld.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Although many years have passed since the last time you used these amazing devices of pain and death, the torture chamber still smells of the fear and blood of the poor wretches that ended up here. If you concentrate, you can hear their screams, which still gives you a fit of pleasure.\n\nA threatening iron maiden is at the centre of the room. Between the chains hanging from the ceiling, you see a breaking wheel and a pillory. There is also a rusty cage, in which you enjoyed to lock - this you remember well - the mates of the people you were torturing. So they could see what they would soon endure. To the east you may return to the snakes room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recite the formula", "response": "It's better not: if the spirit of the skeleton came from the netherworld, he could want to take revenge upon he who reduced him so.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cage", "response": "You unlock and open the cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the skeleton", "response": "I'm afraid taking the whole skeleton would be complicated. Why don't you just take one bone?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bone", "response": "You get a shinbone from the skeleton.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the medallion", "response": "The medallion is stuck into the slot: no matter how hard you pull its chain, it doesn't seem to come out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bone", "response": "This shinbone belonged to the reverend Maximilian Bauer, an old enemy who you condamned to be eaten alive by rats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere. To the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nAt the centre of the room is a coffin on fire, in which the corpse of your lover Sabrina is burning.\n\nA big white cross painted on the floor blocks the passage that goes to east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The books that fill the shelves of your library have been your best friends over the centuries. With their engaging stories they helped you to cope with the loneliness in which every vampire is forced to spend most of his life. At the centre of the room is a desk still covered with papers; behind it you can see a priceless human-skin armchair. To the east you return to the spiders room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the western shelf", "response": "In theory you would be still too weak to move one of the heavy shelves. However, wearing your cloak you seem to have regained some of your usual energy and wickedness. Indeed, after some useless efforts, you succeed in removing one the shelves from the wall, finding a secret passage that leads to west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Now that you are here you remember this room. A hiding place designed to protect a very important item: your copy of Necronomicon, the very rare black magic book that allows to summon demons and reach the most frightful dimensions of the universe. The volume is where you left it, on a lectern at the centre of the room. It seems to invite you to use its occult powers again. To the east you may return to the library room.\n\nHung on the back wall, there is a cloth flag with a dark dragon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flag", "response": "The dragon has always been the emblem of your family. Initially it was white, but you turned it into black to make it more appropriate to your status of prince of darkness.\n\nThe flag is a bit frayed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the book", "response": "Written in blood and bound with human skin, the Necronomicon is a cursed book whose existence many people even prefer to deny. The Church tried to delete every trace of it for centuries, after putting it on a blacklist. Many of those who used it, to summon the demons and visit the frightful places of the netherworld, were killed by the same forces they had tried to dominate. But you, who don't fear the death because you're already dead, have always known how to take advantage of the power of Necronomicon. A quick look at the book index is enough to find what you need: the spell to summon Praseidimio, a powerful demon who already helped you in the past. To have him at your service again, you just have to call his name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "Written in blood and bound with human skin, the Necronomicon is a cursed book whose existence many people even prefer to deny. The Church tried to delete every trace of it for centuries, after putting it on a blacklist. Many of those who used it, to summon the demons and visit the frightful places of the netherworld, were killed by the same forces they had tried to dominate. But you, who don't fear the death because you're already dead, have always known how to take advantage of the power of Necronomicon. A quick look at the book index is enough to find what you need: the spell to summon Praseidimio, a powerful demon who already helped you in the past. To have him at your service again, you just have to call his name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lectern", "response": "Focus on the book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The books that fill the shelves of your library have been your best friends over the centuries. With their engaging stories they helped you to cope with the loneliness in which every vampire is forced to spend most of his life. At the centre of the room is a desk still covered with papers; behind it you can see a priceless human-skin armchair. To the east you return to the spiders room.\n\nTo the west, behind a moved shelf, you see a passage that leads to a secret room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flag on the cross", "response": "The power of the cross is too great to overcome it simply covering it with the flag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave flag", "response": "You look ridiculous waving the flag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wish for the revenge", "response": "If you want to make a wish, just tell Praseidimio about that.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the demon about the revenge", "response": "\"Tell me about the wish you would like me to grant\" Praseidimio says. \"So I'll decide whether to fulfil it or not.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the demon about Anderson", "response": "\"A tough cookie\" Praseidimio says. \"Very tough, maybe too tough!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell demon about Sabrina", "response": "\"A graceful girl, who thanks to you will be doomed forever\" Praseidimio says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell demon about Lilith", "response": "\"A really powerful vampire and... a really charming woman\" Praseidimio says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the demon about blood", "response": "\"A priceless thing!\" Praseidimio says. \"Especially for you vampires.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the demon about cross", "response": "\"A gadget which soon goes out of style\" Praseidimio exclaims.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nPainted on the walls, the floor and the ceiling, the giant spiders that surround you make for a rather disquieting company, even for you. Although perfectly still and little more than stylised drawings, they appear to be extraordinarily alive with shiny yellow eyes and wide open mandibles.\n\nTo the south you may return to the bats room, to the east and to the west you can explore other rooms of the hideout, to the north you see a solid iron door.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Praseidimio watches you going to east and says: \"I'm sorry, but I'm not willing to follow you there. I'll stay here and wait for your return.\"\n\nYou are in a small painted black room that appears to be a temple. You can see a kneeling stool in front of a large painting with a golden frame, hung on the back wall. The subject of the picture is Lilith, the gorgeous and cruel vampire who, more than a thousand years ago, threw you in this bloody abyss of darkness, letting you drink her blood after having pierced your jugular with her long, sharp canines so many times.\n\nMuch time has passed since then, but you never forgot the encounter that changed your life (and your death) forever. Hence you created this place of prayer to keep in contact with her, certain that one day Lilith will answer to your invocations and return to you. To the west a passage leads to the spiders room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You join your hands and start to pray for the return of Lilith, without anything happening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Painted on the walls, the floor and the ceiling, the giant spiders that surround you make for a rather disquieting company, even for you. Although perfectly still and little more than stylised drawings, they appear to be extraordinarily alive with shiny yellow eyes and wide open mandibles.\n\nTo the south you may return to the bats room, to the east and to the west you can explore other rooms of the hideout, to the north you see a solid iron door.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nThe books that fill the shelves of your library have been your best friends over the centuries. With their engaging stories they helped you to cope with the loneliness in which every vampire is forced to spend most of his life. At the centre of the room is a desk still covered with papers; behind it you can see a priceless human-skin armchair. To the east you return to the spiders room.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.\n\nTo the west, behind a moved shelf, you see a passage that leads to a secret room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nYou've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere. To the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.\n\nAt the centre of the room is a coffin on fire, in which the corpse of your lover Sabrina is burning.\n\nA big white cross painted on the floor blocks the passage that goes to east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The white cross drawn on the floor prevents you from going to east.\n\nDo you want to ask Praseidimio to help you overcome the cross? (y/n)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Praseidimio refuses to fulfil your wish, saying that you can overcome the cross on your own.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fire", "response": "It's a terrible sight that makes you understand how lucky you are to be an immortal evil vampire, who'll never goes to burn to hell.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na flag\na shinbone\nan axe\na violin bow\na violin\na bottle of liquor\n\nYou are wearing:\na black cloak\na black leather mask\nyour suit\nan iron key\nyour boots\n\nYou also have:\na magic formula", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour liquor on the flag", "response": "It would be useless.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flag in the bottle", "response": "I'm sure you can find more important things to do.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the violin", "response": "You play a music so sweet that moves also Praseidimio.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nPainted on the walls, the floor and the ceiling, the giant spiders that surround you make for a rather disquieting company, even for you. Although perfectly still and little more than stylised drawings, they appear to be extraordinarily alive with shiny yellow eyes and wide open mandibles.\n\nTo the south you may return to the bats room, to the east and to the west you can explore other rooms of the hideout, to the north you see a solid iron door.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Praseidimio watches you going to east and says: \"I'm sorry, but I'm not willing to follow you there. I'll stay here and wait for your return.\"\n\nYou are in a small painted black room that appears to be a temple. You can see a kneeling stool in front of a large painting with a golden frame, hung on the back wall. The subject of the picture is Lilith, the gorgeous and cruel vampire who, more than a thousand years ago, threw you in this bloody abyss of darkness, letting you drink her blood after having pierced your jugular with her long, sharp canines so many times.\n\nMuch time has passed since then, but you never forgot the encounter that changed your life (and your death) forever. Hence you created this place of prayer to keep in contact with her, certain that one day Lilith will answer to your invocations and return to you. To the west a passage leads to the spiders room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nPainted on the floor, snakes of every colour and size crawl and coil on each other, creating an apparently entangled mess. Some of them also climb onto the walls, brushing against the ceiling and making seemingly meaningless drawings. To the north there is the passage that goes to the bats room, to the south a solid wooden door (without a keyhole), to the east and to the west the entrances to two other rooms.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.\n\nThe small chain of your medallion hangs from the slot at the side of the lever, near the wooden door on the south wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nAlthough many years have passed since the last time you used these amazing devices of pain and death, the torture chamber still smells of the fear and blood of the poor wretches that ended up here. If you concentrate, you can hear their screams, which still gives you a fit of pleasure.\n\nA threatening iron maiden is at the centre of the room. Between the chains hanging from the ceiling, you see a breaking wheel and a pillory. There is also a rusty cage, in which you enjoyed to lock - this you remember well - the mates of the people you were torturing. So they could see what they would soon endure. To the east you may return to the snakes room.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recite the formula", "response": "It's better not: if the spirit of the skeleton came from the netherworld, he could want to take revenge upon he who reduced him so.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na flag\na shinbone\nan axe\na violin bow\na violin\na bottle of liquor\n\nYou are wearing:\na black cloak\na black leather mask\nyour suit\nan iron key\nyour boots\n\nYou also have:\na magic formula", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the liquor on the cross", "response": "You're crazy if you think to overcome the cross power by pouring the liquor on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour liquor on the fire", "response": "It's better not, you would risk to burn the entire hideout.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn cross", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the cross.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop cross", "response": "Cutting that up would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You burn liquor", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the bottle of liquor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the flag to the bone", "response": "The flag is too large to tie it to the bone. Why don't you try to make it smaller?\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rip the flag", "response": "You rip the flag, obtaining some cloth stripes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the stripes to the bone", "response": "You tie the stripes to the bone and roll them around one of its extremities, making a sort of rudimentary torch. Now, to light it up, you have to find some fuel and, obviously, a fire.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light torch", "response": "Before lighting up the torch with the fire from the coffin, you should pour some fuel on it to be sure it burns well and long enough.\n\nBefore lighting up the torch with the fire from the coffin, you should pour some fuel on it to be sure it burns well and long enough.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the liquor on the torch", "response": "You pour some liquor on the torch. Now, to light it up, you just need some fire.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the liquor on the torch", "response": "You already did it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light torch", "response": "You put the torch, drenched with alcohol, on the flaming coffin: it lights up and starts to burn slowly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light cross", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the cross.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nMany of the wretches that wanted to put an end to your atrocities spent their last hours of life here, waiting to see what fate they would face, after daring to oppose to your wicked supremacy. Caught by your minions on the mountain slope, while they tried to achieve their silly goals, they had been locked up in this narrow cell and left in the deepest darkness for days and nights, without food and water, until you felt inspired enough to take care of them. The walls, the ceiling, the floor and also the door have been covered with graffiti - some of which written in blood - that report curses and prayers of every kind, all unheard, seemingly. The exit that leads to the snakes room is to the north.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn web", "response": "I doubt you can do it with some spiders painted on the floor.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn self", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to yourself.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nYour hideout wouldn't be complete without a place for storing your treasures. Your minions have always been too curious and bold for your liking, so you had this big and impregnable safe made that, as you predicted, perfectly resisted the attack of your killers. The room is indeed full of treasures. To the south you may return to the spiders room.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You can go only south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn painting", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the picture.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn books", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the books.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn papers", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the papers.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nThis hiding place was designed to protect a very important item: your copy of Necronomicon, the very rare black magic book that allows to summon demons and reach the most frightful dimensions of the universe. The volume is where you left it, on a lectern at the centre of the room. It seems to invite you to use its occult powers again. To the east you may return to the library room.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na torch\nan axe\na violin bow\na violin\na bottle of liquor\n\nYou are wearing:\na black cloak\na black leather mask\nyour suit\nan iron key\nyour boots\n\nYou also have:\na magic formula", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nYou're walking through the east-west tunnel which connects the crypt with the other rooms of the hideout. It is a narrow passage of irregular stone that nobody had dared to walk through before the arrival of the fools who (temporarily) put an end to your life.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nHidden in the bowels of the mountain, this chamber has hosted your immortal body for centuries, while your enemies spent their miserable days hunting you down at your castle. The coffin is on a stone pedestal at the centre of the room. On the ceiling is a fresco of the red sun of Valmar. To the east a narrow tunnel leads to the other rooms of your hideout.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light Praseidimio", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the demon Praseidimio.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn sun", "response": "I'm sure you can find more important things to do.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pedestal", "response": "The coffin lies on a massive block of black stone on which your name has been engraved: \"Martin Voigt\". There is also the ancient motto: \"Nemo me impune lacessit\". An expression that you reread with particular pleasure, waiting to transform it into a lethal reality.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the coffin", "response": "In the coffin is a wooden stake.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stake", "response": "You really want to take it back?! After it kept you nailed to your coffin for years? You'd rather not.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn stake", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the wooden stake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nYou're walking through the east-west tunnel which connects the crypt with the other rooms of the hideout. It is a narrow passage of irregular stone that nobody had dared to walk through before the arrival of the fools who (temporarily) put an end to your life.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the torch in chain", "response": "That can't contain things.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the chain", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "You sing a song to the devil, without achieving any (apparent) help.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "No problem!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "It's better not to bring the Necronomicon outside of its hiding place.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the books", "response": "Actually the amount of books that you see here is only a small part of that, certainly bigger, collection that you amassed over the centuries in the library room of your castle. However, between the most recent volumes, there are all the most famous vampire tales written by Bram Stoker, Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu, John William Polidori, Charles Nodier, Marcel Schwob, Stanislaus Eric Stenbock, Julian Osgood Field, Anne Rice, Richard R. McCammon and Fred Saberhagen.\n\nThere are also the frightful stories of Edgar Allan Poe, Ambrose Bierce, Howard Phillips Lovecraft, Stephen King, Clive Barker and the delirious works of Franz Kafka, Tommaso Landolfi and Dino Buzzati.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the paintings", "response": "The treasures stored in this room form a shiny heap of golden and silver coins, jewels, precious stones, that overflows the chests and covers almost all the floor, with paintings, sculptures and other items of inestimable value. It is a wealth conquered in over one thousand years of life, that also includes a lot of houses scattered all over the world, that you will soon haunt again.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "demon Praseidimio: I don't suppose the demon Praseidimio would care for that.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "demon Praseidimio: I don't suppose the demon Praseidimio would care for that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Praseidimio watches you going to east and says: \"I'm sorry, but I'm not willing to follow you there. I'll stay here and wait for your return.\"\n\nYou are in a small painted black room that appears to be a temple. You can see a kneeling stool in front of a large painting with a golden frame, hung on the back wall. The subject of the picture is Lilith, the gorgeous and cruel vampire who, more than a thousand years ago, threw you in this bloody abyss of darkness, letting you drink her blood after having pierced your jugular with her long, sharp canines so many times.\n\nMuch time has passed since then, but you never forgot the encounter that changed your life (and your death) forever. Hence you created this place of prayer to keep in contact with her, certain that one day Lilith will answer to your invocations and return to you. To the west a passage leads to the spiders room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "demon Praseidimio: I don't suppose the demon Praseidimio would care for that.\npassage: That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nThis hiding place was designed to protect a very important item: your copy of Necronomicon, the very rare black magic book that allows to summon demons and reach the most frightful dimensions of the universe. The volume is where you left it, on a lectern at the centre of the room. It seems to invite you to use its occult powers again. To the east you may return to the library room.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "demon Praseidimio: I don't suppose the demon Praseidimio would care for that.\nflaming coffin: It's better not, you would risk to burn yourself. cross: That's fixed in place.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fire", "response": "It's a terrible sight that makes you understand how lucky you are to be an immortal evil vampire, who'll never goes to burn to hell.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search fire", "response": "The flaming coffin is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "demon Praseidimio: I don't suppose the demon Praseidimio would care for that.\nmedallion: The medallion is stuck into the slot: no matter how hard you pull its chain, it doesn't seem to come out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nYou are in a room lacking decorations that seems to be a sort a storage room, where you kept your clothes and the tools that you could need when you were in action. A big wardrobe is on the back wall, while on the floor you see a heavy chest. To the west you may return to the snakes room.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "demon Praseidimio: I don't suppose the demon Praseidimio would care for that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "First you should close the door.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "You hear a click when you pull the lever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the medallion", "response": "You pull the small chain and take the medallion back that you inserted in the slot near the lever.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the medallion", "response": "You put on the medallion.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The white cross drawn on the floor prevents you from going to east.\n\nDo you want to ask Praseidimio to help you overcome the cross? (y/n)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the medallion", "response": "The medallion has your name carved on: \"Martin Voigt\". It is attached to a small chain that allows to wear it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the medallion", "response": "You're already wearing that!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You count the bats", "response": "You aren't convinced that the bats are exactly 103, so you decide to count them again. Even this time you have to do many attempts to complete the task, but maybe it has been worth because now you know the bats are 102, instead of 103.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere. To the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.\n\nAt the centre of the room is a coffin on fire, in which the corpse of your lover Sabrina is burning.\n\nA big white cross painted on the floor blocks the passage that goes to east.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cross", "response": "Simply frightening.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mask", "response": "This is the leather mask that you liked to wear while you tortured your prisoners. Painted on it there is a horrible skull, which makes it even more frightful.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mask", "response": "You already have that.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the cloak", "response": "You take off the black cloak.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cloak on the cross", "response": "The power of the cross is too great to overcome it simply covering it with the cloak.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the cloak", "response": "You wear the cloak and you feel stronger.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kneel", "response": "You kneel on the stool, in front of the painting of Lilith.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "Kneeling in front of her picture, you pray for the return of Lilith. You need her more than ever, at this moment of great difficulty. At the beginning you can't find the words, then you remember the invocations repeated for centuries, waiting for the return of the only woman that is really important for you. Often, many hours would pass before you got up, without anything happening.\n\nRather unusually, this time, as you've just started to repeat your supplications the picture of the vampire comes to life and starts speaking, emanating a diabolical halo of red light: \"Martin Voigt, how much time has passed since the last time we met? Your death grieved me and I'm glad to have you in my sight again.\"\n\nYou smile, but Lilith frowns at you and says: \"I know you're happy to see me again, but this is no time for love. If you think I'm the one who performed the magic that brought you to life, you're right. If you think I did it to allow you to accomplish your goal of revenge, you're wrong. I've a more ambitious and lethal project for you.\"\n\n\"Unfortunately you still seem to be very weak\" she continues. \"I doubt you can go further in such a feeble state. Maybe I have to give you another bit of help to let you recover your energy and leave your hideout. But, first, I have to verify that you still know the basis of our history. If you give the correct answer to my question, I shall instill in you the power to overcome one of the obstacles set in your way... How many rays has the red sun of Valmar that lights up the dark nights of us vampires?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "8", "response": "\"You're right, my dear!\" says Lilith. \"I congratulate you on your memory, it seems that your powers haven't weakened that much in these years of oblivion. However, to help you overcome the obstacles that bar your way to freedom, I'll offer you my curse.\"\n\nThe charming vampire points her finger at you and instills in you a new, wicked energy.\n\n\"Now you may fearlessly face the symbols and the spells that your enemies set in your way\" she explains. \"When you come out, forget your foolish plan of revenge and come to me at the Yoshiwara Club. I'm gathering the largest army of vampires in history, to prepare for the battle that will lead us to subdue humankind. Soon we'll turn the most frightening fantasies into reality and take what should have long been ours: the world!\"\n\n\"Don't worry now about the road to the Yoshiwara Club, at the right moment the Love will drive you there\" ends Lilith, before vanishing in a final blinding flash of red light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You'll have to get off the kneeling stool first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the kneeling stool.\n\nYou are in a small painted black room that appears to be a temple. You can see a kneeling stool in front of a large painting with a golden frame, hung on the back wall. The subject of the picture is Lilith, the gorgeous and cruel vampire who, more than a thousand years ago, threw you in this bloody abyss of darkness, letting you drink her blood after having pierced your jugular with her long, sharp canines so many times.\n\nMuch time has passed since then, but you never forgot the encounter that changed your life (and your death) forever. Hence you created this place of prayer to keep in contact with her, certain that one day Lilith will answer to your invocations and return to you. To the west a passage leads to the spiders room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nYou've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere. To the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.\n\nAt the centre of the room is a coffin on fire, in which the corpse of your lover Sabrina is burning.\n\nA big white cross has been painted on the floor of the passage that goes to east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Protected by the curse received from Lilith, you easily overcome the white cross painted on the floor and proceed to east, followed by Praseidimio.\n\nBeyond the cross drawn on the floor to impede your passage, there is a narrow corridor that goes from west to east. It connects the bats room with the stone steps that should lead out of your hideout, towards the dark maze of caves that hides its entry. On the floor, the ceiling and the walls, you can see many other magic symbols. They have been drawn to avoid your escape, but their effect on you is nullified by Lilith's curse.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.\n\nThe impossibility of seeing your image reflected in a mirror is one of the things that you hate most about your vampire condition. So the gigantic mirror that is in your way towards your freedom, to the east, is a horrible view to you. Your persecutors thought of everything to keep you imprisoned in your own hideout. The mirror is too large to be covered, bypassed or climbed upon, so you have to find a way to destroy it, if you want to leave the hideout.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break mirror", "response": "The axe hits the mirror without scratching it. Clearly it's unbreakable.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn mirror", "response": "I doubt it's useful to set fire to the mirror.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "The mirror is too frightening for you to examine it carefully. However, it's too large to be covered, bypassed or climbed upon, so you have to find a way to destroy it, if you want to leave the hideout.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The mirror blocks your way.\n\nDo you want to ask Praseidimio to help you to break the mirror? (y/n)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Praseidimio stares at the mirror uncertain. Being near him you see that his image too isn't reflected but he doesn't seem to care about it. Probably a small gesture would be enough for him to break the mirror, as it was for you when you were at the top of your strength.\n\nAt last, acknowledging that it's a problem too difficult to solve for a vampire in such a bad condition, the demon agrees to grant your wish. He points one of his shapeless excrescences to the mirror and breaks it, scattering its small fragments on the floor.\n\n\"You've been satisfied\" says Praseidimio, before disappearing in a cloud of red smoke. \"Now go on with your revenge. And may the red sun of Valmar shine on your dark nights of vampire!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Through a twisty maze of tunnels, you've reached the cave that leads out of mountain bowels, to the east. Just another effort and you'll be free to go to Lilith at the Yoshiwara Club and accomplish your revenge. However, to the west you can return to the dark gallery that takes to your hideout.\n\nA big black wolf stands between you and the exit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wolf", "response": "Having come in to have a shelter for the night, the animal must be very hungry. Its fangs are longer and pointier than yours: leaving the cave without being eaten won't be easy. The wolf seems to have \"smelt\" your supernatural origin and this could have enraged it even more. Trying to bypass it seems to be impossible, and you're still too weak to attack it. Maybe, if you find the way to appease it, you can pass.\n\nThe wolf growls at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite wolf", "response": "You aren't strong enough to face the wolf.\n\nThe wolf growls at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na torch\na violin bow\na violin\na bottle of liquor\n\nYou are wearing:\na medallion\na black cloak\na black leather mask\nyour suit\nan iron key\nyour boots\n\nYou also have:\na curse\na magic formula\n\nThe wolf howls and looks at you with hateful eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You burn wolf", "response": "The wolf is too fast for you to burn it with the torch. Besides, he doesn't seem to be scared by the fire.\n\nThe wolf howls and looks at you with hateful eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the violin", "response": "You play some very sweet music that calms the wolf and makes it fall asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite wolf", "response": "It would be a coward's deed to attack a sleeping wolf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Outside the cave, every sense of yours is assaulted by the garlic flowers planted all around the entrance. A new attempt to block your escape from the mountain bowels, to keep you from making the world your kingdom of terror again.\n\nLuckily the mask you are wearing has such a strong smell of blood that it attenuates the stench of garlic, allowing you to stay outside the cave, near the flowers. However, to continue your escape you must find the way to destroy the field which surrounds you.\n\nThe smell of the garlic field is terrible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light garlic", "response": "With your rudimentary torch, you set fire to the garlic field. The sight of the flowers burning is wonderful and soon the stink that prevented you from leaving the cave fades away, covered by the acrid smell of the fire and by the scent of your victory which gets closer.\n\nDelimited by the scree slope of the mountain, the fire quickly dies after destroying the field. The road to the freedom seems to be clear, but in such a bad condition you can't go far. You're still too weak to turn into a bat and fly away. Moreover, outside your hideout you won't have any protection, because you no longer know anyone that could help you.\n\nWhile you think how to recover your energy, you see a girl arriving from the botton of the slope. She has blonde hair, wears a violet dress and she seems to come towards you, probably drawn by the smoke of the fire. She quickly reaches the charred field, then she notices your presence and stops, uncertain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the violin", "response": "You play a very sweet music that the girl seems to like.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the girl", "response": "The girl is rather pretty: she has big blue eyes, long blonde hair and a gorgeous little body that inspires a sense of protection... or defeat that you are going to satisfy.\n\nThe girl seems to be scared by your horrible appearance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite girl", "response": "The girl is too far for you to bite her before she runs away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the mask", "response": "The girl smiles when you remove the mask and show her your face. Maybe she was waiting for that to cross the charred field and reach you near the cave entrance. \"Sir, it's so strange meeting you here in the dead of night\" she exclaims, visibly excited. \"I'd like to ask you what you are doing here, all alone, and if it was you who set the field on fire, but maybe first all of all you should tell me your name.\"\n\nDo you want to reveal your identity to the girl? (y/n)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You show your medallion to the girl, who opens her eyes wide and represses an exclamation of surprise. \"You are Martin Voigt\" then she says, full of thrill. \"The ancient lord and master of all these lands and the people who live on them. I've heard a lot of times talking about you, but I thought you had died many years ago. Instead, you are alive. It's a honour for me to make your acquaintance, all my clan has always been faithful to you, serving you until your disappearance. Surely there will be a big party at the camp, when they know that you are back. Meanwhile I'll be at your service to satisfy every your need\" the girl says, getting closer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell girl", "response": "The smell of burnt emanated from the field is delicious.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite girl", "response": "The girl is doomed. Maybe, if she had known who you really are, an evil vampire who only wants to drink blood and destroy everything, she wouldn't have offered you her help with so much generosity. But now it's too late to change her mind. The girl is so helpful that she lets you hug her without moving. Maybe she thinks that you want to thank her. Only when she feels your lips touching her neck, she sees what your real intention is. She tries to wiggle out from your hug, but your grip is too strong and there's nobody that can hear her screams of terror.\n\nBiting her is a great pleasure. When her blood finally flows down into your throat, you feel on top of the world. You drink with savage greed. When you stop, the girl is exhausted and collapses on the ground. Instead, you've recovered all your energy: after laughing to the moon, you finally can turn into a bat and fly towards the Yoshiwara Club, where Lilith is waiting for you to bring humankind to its apocalypse.\n\nYou'll live many other adventures, Martin Voigt, on this land and on others that you'll visit soon. Meanwhile, you have accomplished your first mission, leaving your hideout, despite the obstacles set on your way, and recovering the energy you need to take your bloody revenge.\n\n*** You have won ***\n\nIn that game you scored 55 out of a possible 55, in 357 turns, achieving the rank of Prince of darkness!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You're already swimming in a sea of troubles.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "What do you want to dig?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Floor", "response": "You have already dug your grave a long time ago... and now you are in it up to your ears.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Darn", "response": "Watch your language or I'll call Van Helsing!\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the coffin", "response": "Who do you think you are, Giordano Bruno?\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick spikes", "response": "You lick the blood encrusted spikes finding them delicious.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the door", "response": "Who do you think you are, Hulk?\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the halloween", "response": "\"A great party\" Praseidimio says. \"The dead come out of the graves and we demons have really fun!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the zork", "response": "\"A great game!\" Praseidimio exclaims.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the hell", "response": "\"That's the place where we all are going to\" Praseidimio says. \"But for an evil vampire like you there may be an even worse destination.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the heaven", "response": "\"Tell me about the wish you would like me to grant\" Praseidimio says. \"So I'll decide whether to fulfil it or not.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the peace", "response": "\"Is something edible?\" Praseidimio said, perplexed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the lucifer", "response": "\"A very good colleague\" Praseidimio says. \"But I'm the best!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the dracula", "response": "\"A great novel, ruined by a terrible ending\" Praseidimio said. \"But I'm sure that you'll be luckier.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about the sex", "response": "\"Sex is the best way to be damned\" Praseidimio says. \"It's a pity we demons can't have it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite demon", "response": "You have no reason to attack Praseidimio. Besides, it wouldn't be wise to challenge his arcane powers.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask demon about Yoshiwara Club", "response": "\"A nightmare place!\" Praseidimio exclaims.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Praseidimio follows you.\n\nYou've reached the wide, octagonal chamber that is at the centre of the hideout. The walls and the ceiling are covered with menacing black bats, painted on the background of a gloomy cave, with stalactites and stalagmites scattered everywhere. To the west you may return to the crypt; to the north, east and south three dark passages lead to the other rooms of the hideout.\n\nPraseidimio is at your side, ready to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.\n\nAt the centre of the room is a coffin on fire, in which the corpse of your lover Sabrina is burning.\n\nA big white cross has been painted on the floor of the passage that goes to east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the door.\n\n\"Think well to what wish to make\" says Praseidimio. \"As you know, we demons are very powerful and we don't like to be disturbed for trifles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "You hear a click when you pull the lever.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the medallion", "response": "You pull the small chain and take the medallion back that you inserted in the slot near the lever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the stripes to the bone", "response": "You tie the stripes to the bone and roll them around one of its extremities, making a sort of rudimentary torch. Now, to light it up, you have to find some fuel and, obviously, a fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the liquor on the torch", "response": "You pour some liquor on the torch. Now, to light it up, you just need some fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light torch", "response": "You put the torch, drenched with alcohol, on the flaming coffin: it lights up and starts to burn slowly.\n\nPraseidimio sniggers thinking of the next soul that he'll send to burn to hell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na torch\nan axe\na violin bow\na violin\na bottle of liquor\n\nYou are wearing:\na medallion\na black cloak\na black leather mask\nyour suit\nan iron key\nyour boots\n\nYou also have:\na curse\na magic formula", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the curse", "response": "This curse should give you the energy you need to overcome the symbols of Good.\n\nPraseidimio fluctuates around you, eager to give his contribution to the triumph of evil over good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Through a twisty maze of tunnels, you've reached the cave that leads out of mountain bowels, to the east. Just another effort and you'll be free to go to Lilith at the Yoshiwara Club and accomplish your revenge. However, to the west you can return to the dark gallery that takes to your hideout.\n\nA big black wolf stands between you and the exit.\n\nThe wolf howls and looks at you with hateful eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the wolf", "response": "If you want to talk to someone, you have to write: >ask [or tell] someone about something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the wolf about the wolf", "response": "Who do you think you are, Saint Francis of Assisi?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the violin", "response": "You play some very sweet music that calms the wolf and makes it fall asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Outside the cave, every sense of yours is assaulted by the garlic flowers planted all around the entrance. A new attempt to block your escape from the mountain bowels, to keep you from making the world your kingdom of terror again.\n\nLuckily the mask you are wearing has such a strong smell of blood that it attenuates the stench of garlic, allowing you to stay outside the cave, near the flowers. However, to continue your escape you must find the way to destroy the field which surrounds you.\n\nThe smell of the garlic field is terrible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You burn the garlic", "response": "With your rudimentary torch, you set fire to the garlic field. The sight of the flowers burning is wonderful and soon the stink that prevented you from leaving the cave fades away, covered by the acrid smell of the fire and by the scent of your victory which gets closer.\n\nDelimited by the scree slope of the mountain, the fire quickly dies after destroying the field. The road to the freedom seems to be clear, but in such a bad condition you can't go far. You're still too weak to turn into a bat and fly away. Moreover, outside your hideout you won't have any protection, because you no longer know anyone that could help you.\n\nWhile you think how to recover your energy, you see a girl arriving from the botton of the slope. She has blonde hair, wears a violet dress and she seems to come towards you, probably drawn by the smoke of the fire. She quickly reaches the charred field, then she notices your presence and stops, uncertain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the mask", "response": "The girl smiles when you remove the mask and show her your face. Maybe she was waiting for that to cross the charred field and reach you near the cave entrance. \"Sir, it's so strange meeting you here in the dead of night\" she exclaims, visibly excited. \"I'd like to ask you what you are doing here, all alone, and if it was you who set the field on fire, but maybe first all of all you should tell me your name.\"\n\nDo you want to reveal your identity to the girl? (y/n)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The girl looks away, embarrassed, and says: \"I'm sorry, sir. I didn't want to be indiscreet. I've heard that one time here there was the hideout of Martin Voigt, the legendary lord and master of all these lands and the people who live on them. For a moment, I thought it might be you. Before returning to my camp, I'll still stay here a while: I'd be glad if you changed your mind and showed me a proof of your identity.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Surreal" ]

[ "built-in map", "cover art", "dysfunctional families", "family", "female protagonist", "House", "house setting", "IFComp 2015", "IFComp Game", "Inform 7", "multiple endings", "parser", "puzzleless", "second person", "time travel", "Xyzzy Awards 2015" ]

[ 7, 8, 10, 3, 2 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "The white door in the hallway is new. You can't remember having seen it before. After the children left home, you had expected the house to be quieter. You hadn't expected it to grow. Now, with Brady gone, Samantha living with her boyfriend one town over, and everything being packed for the move, unexpected doorways and passages are the norm. Just yesterday morning, you had been vacuuming the bedroom and noticed a small archway behind the wardrobe leading to goodness knows where.\n\nSometimes, on the nights when Derek doesn't come home, you imagine you can hear the creaks and groans of rending wood and stone as the house tortuously shifts itself into new configurations.\n\nWhen Derek arrived home from work last night, you tried to tell him about it, as you do most nights.\n\n\"You should be glad of the extra space, Elaine,\" he said, \"you've always wanted a workroom.\" Most of the time he just sighs and turns the TV on, only half listening to you.\n\nA Deconstructural Fiction by Ade McT\n\nThe week starts like it always does. Slowly. It was an effort to get out of bed this morning. Derek had left before the morning light spilled half-heartedly into the room and from the coolness of the sheets on his bed, you judge he had left early. His coffee cup was still warm, though. You imagine he had taken his coffee out into the garden.\n\nSome mornings, especially in summer when the weight of light on your eyelids wakes you early, you come across him in the garden staring across the expanse of lawn. At these times especially you try not to intrude but occasionally you will watch him through the kitchen window, wondering what he is thinking about.\n\nBut today all that's left of Derek's morning routine is a half-empty coffee cup and a few toast crumbs on the sideboard. A week can go past when these remains are all you see of him, and this morning, like every morning, you begin your day by wiping away this evidence that Derek was ever here. Most of the rest of the morning is spent doing those little things that are done on auto-pilot, and, once done, forgotten until they need to be done again.\n\nIt's not until you are on the upstairs hallway, dusting the leaves of the rubber plant, that you see the white door you noticed yesterday stands open, light spilling from it into the darkened hall.\n\ntyping \"help\" will get you started with some special commands.)\n\nThe hallway has no windows. It's always been a dingy place when the doors to the bedrooms are closed. Pictures line the walls, barely illuminated. To the south of you is the spare room, opposite it, Brady's room and the hallway stretches toward the east side of the house. A flight of stairs leads down into the entrance hall, and the new white door hangs open next to the staircase to the west.\n\nThe rubber plant you brought home from the garden centre a year after you moved in sits on a small plinth in the corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at pictures", "response": "You don't really enjoy having your picture taken. You haven't for years. If the camera comes out, it's always you who is holding it, or trying to blend into the background blur, looking away.\n\nWhen you were first married, it was fun, and you still have the black and white passport sized set of linked photographs from the photo-booth in which you and Derek made funny faces at the camera, laughing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na map", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the map", "response": "You started drawing the map on the day you noticed the house start to grow. Now, your drawing seems to have taken on a life of it's own. Each morning, it has changed. Sometimes, when you are walking around the house, the map seems to come to life in your hands.\n\nYou see that since yesterday, there is a new door on the west wall of the hallway, and a new door east of the Main Bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You don't often look at yourself. It's difficult to pinpoint the moment when you stopped looking in the mirror, or glancing at your hair in a handy reflection in a shop window. How would someone else sum you up? Elaine Paterson. 40 years old. Dowdy in a neat and unassuming sort of way. Quiet. You wear thick jumpers when it's cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plant", "response": "Perhaps it's where you put it, but for some reason, over the years, this plant has grown slowly, the leaves small, the trunk pencil-wide.\n\nYou remember the day you brought it home. \"It won't grow flowers, you know,\" had said Derek as soon as he saw you come in the door.\n\nYou nodded and smiled. \"Yes,\" you had said, \"It says so on the label.\" You remember having a cold, coughing, the wind outside had made your fingers feel like they belonged to someone else.\n\n\"You know,\" he had said, \"Malcolm and Judy were thinking of inviting us to dinner tonight.\"\n\n\"Oh?\" you replied, unwilling to commit, a vague feeling of dread creeping over you.\n\n\"We should go. Maybe you could try and make an effort this time.\"\n\nYou didn't answer him, but you felt bright spots of red appears on your cheeks. He turned, losing interest in both the plant and you, and walked away. Three steps. You had been left holding the plant, uncertain.\n\n\"Where shall we put it,\" you had said to his back, your voice small. \"It might look nice in the lounge.\"\n\n\"Good Lord, no,\" he had snapped. \"What's the point if it will never flower? Ugly looking thing anyway. Keep it out of the way somewhere.\"\n\nYou had burst into tears right there in the middle of the entrance hall. It was the first time you had ever cried in this house. Maybe that's why you remember it so clearly. So you had stuck it away in the upstairs hall - out of sight.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The hallway has no windows. It's always been a dingy place when the doors to the bedrooms are closed. Pictures line the walls, barely illuminated. To the south of you is the spare room, opposite it, Brady's room and the hallway stretches toward the east side of the house. A flight of stairs leads down into the entrance hall, and the new white door hangs open next to the staircase to the west.\n\nThe rubber plant you brought home from the garden centre a year after you moved in sits on a small plinth in the corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first opening the spare room door)\n\nThe work bench, so recently unpacked and painstakingly pieced together, sits unused in the corner. The vast expanse of empty floor is intimidating.\n\nOver the years, the function of this room has changed and evolved alongside the family. It used to be a playroom for the children. Then it was an office when Derek worked at home for six months. Then it was a spare bedroom for visitors. But it was used so infrequently that Derek suggested you use it as a workroom \"to do all those things you've always wanted to do.\"\n\nIt was a good idea, but now you've cleared the old bed away and put a workbench in here, it still remains almost entirely unused. It's as if, when confronted with all this space and opportunity, your mind went blank, and everything you thought of seemed a waste of time somehow. It's like you're paralysed by indecision.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bench", "response": "The wooden surface of the workbench is entirely empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the bench", "response": "You get onto the workdesk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "(first getting off the workdesk)\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The hallway has no windows. It's always been a dingy place when the doors to the bedrooms are closed, but the open door allows some light to creep in. Pictures line the walls, barely illuminated. To the south of you is the spare room, opposite it, Brady's room and the hallway stretches toward the east side of the house. A flight of stairs leads down into the entrance hall, and the new white door hangs open next to the staircase to the west.\n\nThe rubber plant you brought home from the garden centre a year after you moved in sits on a small plinth in the corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Away from the faint light from the stairwell, the hall is darker, and the pictures that continue to line the walls are more indistinct. The door in the north wall leads to Samantha's room, opposite it, your and Derek's room, and the hallway stretches to the west. To the east, a doorway leads into the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "(first opening Brady's bedroom door)\n\nBrady's room remains in the state it was when he moved out. You've left it untouched in the hope that one day you will hear a knock on the door and it will be Brady there, his tall thin frame slightly stooped, leaning against the doorway, a five day scrag of beard covering his habitual cheeky grin.\n\nThe posters on the wall, reminders of winning sports teams and fading rock bands, are further apart than yesterday, as though spaced out and shifted by some unseen hand, showing acres of cream wallpaper. The bed, stripped of sheets, is only a textured mattress, the desk, piled with hockey trophies from his schooldays. Grey light from the window filters into the hallway behind you.\n\nDerek had said that Brady wasn't going to be back, and you should remove his things - sell them maybe - empty the room. You had shaken your head. \"He'll be back,\" you said, \"he'll always come home.\" Derek had disagreed. Privately, lately, you have been doubting it also. It wouldn't hurt for him to call, you often find yourself thinking. When the message light blinks on the answering machine, you always have a moment of hope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the posters", "response": "Brady's tastes always ran to...loud. The posters seem to be mainly long haired men shouting into the camera or clean cut young men, heavily muscled under hockey armour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Through the window, you can see the garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the garden", "response": "Brady's room overlooks the lawn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "The wooden desk is battered and dented and completely covered by Brady's old hockey trophies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Day", "response": "It's Monday today.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "More of a futon. Brady always insisted he felt more comfortable sleeping closer to the floor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The posters on the wall, reminders of winning sports teams and fading rock bands, are further apart than yesterday, as though spaced out and shifted by some unseen hand, showing acres of cream wallpaper. The bed, stripped of sheets, is only a textured mattress, the desk, piled with hockey trophies from his schooldays. Grey light from the window filters into the hallway behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The hallway has no windows. It's always been a dingy place when the doors to the bedrooms are closed, but the open door allows some light to creep in. Pictures line the walls, barely illuminated. To the south of you is the spare room, opposite it, Brady's room and the hallway stretches toward the east side of the house. A flight of stairs leads down into the entrance hall, and the new white door hangs open next to the staircase to the west.\n\nThe rubber plant you brought home from the garden centre a year after you moved in sits on a small plinth in the corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Away from the faint light from the stairwell, the hall is darker, and the pictures that continue to line the walls are more indistinct. The door in the north wall leads to Samantha's room, opposite it, your and Derek's room, and the hallway stretches to the west. To the east, a doorway leads into the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pictures", "response": "It's like a history, this hallway, or a story. Black and white becomes colour. Hairstyles change from long to short and then long again. Young people become middle aged. Babies appear and disappear, becoming children. Through it all is the constant presence of Derek: A frowning boy; a serious looking young man with neat hair; A harried young father balancing two small children in his arms at some seaside resort; A middle aged man sat at the kitchen table.\n\nAt this end of the hallway you are part of the tale, but your story seems to end somewhere in the middle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The pause before you enter Sam's room is almost subconscious. When she was at home, you were always an uninvited presence there and with both of you in her room, resentment hung thick, turning most interactions poisonous. Now, even with the room vacated there's a sense, at the doorway, of unwelcoming. It's not something you've been able to shake off even after these last two months without her.\n\n(first opening Sam's bedroom door)\n\nThe bed under the window seems further away today. The floor, uncluttered with Sam's possessions, has stretched slightly during the night. You used to be able to touch the empty desk from the door, and the walls, bare of brightly coloured posters, appear taller - the ceiling more distant.\n\nAfter Sam left, Derek had piled everything remaining into black plastic bags and, shaking with anger, had dumped them in the garbage. You feel now that maybe this had been the wrong thing to do - that you should have taken Sam's possessions from the trash and stored them somewhere. But, at the time, you had been angry too.\n\nIt had been the first time you noticed the house's growth. As Derek removed books and posters and CD's and plastic figurines or furry jumbles of cuddly toys, the walls of the room had expanded. Walking across the floors had taken longer. Not much, but enough to be noticeable. Eight years living in the same house, vacuuming the same floors, has made you sensitive to any small change.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "You bought this bed when Sam was only eight. You had just moved here. At the time it had been a princess bed with a pink gauze canopy. Over the years, Sam had grown out of the canopy, but she had refused to let the bed go, even though, as she grew, her feet stuck further and further over the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine desk", "response": "Just a plain wooden desk but, over the years, Sam has decorated it in graffiti, sequins, and vari-colored crepe paper, depending on her moods.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Away from the faint light from the stairwell, the hall is darker, and the pictures that continue to line the walls are more indistinct. A little more light spills in from the open door. The door in the north wall leads to Samantha's room, opposite it, your and Derek's room, and the hallway stretches to the west. To the east, a doorway leads into the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first opening the bathroom door)\n\nThe bathroom is all in pale green. The toilet, sink and bath were here when you moved in, and there never really seemed to be a reason to change them. The mirrored cabinet above the sink steams up when anyone has a shower and because of the poor ventilation through the small fan in the window, the grouting between the tiles has always had mold problems.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Through the window, you can see the garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cabinet", "response": "Your face, in the mirror, appears care-worn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "You open the mirrored cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close cabinet", "response": "You close the mirrored cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toilet", "response": "The toilet is old, but serviceable. It's supported the whole family for eight years.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bath", "response": "The bath is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Away from the faint light from the stairwell, the hall is darker, and the pictures that continue to line the walls are more indistinct. A little more light spills in from the open door. The door in the north wall leads to Samantha's room, opposite it, your and Derek's room, and the hallway stretches to the west. To the east, a doorway leads into the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "(first opening the main bedroom door)\n\nThis has always been your favourite room. The large south facing window lets in plenty of light which makes it brighter than the rest of the house. However, over the last couple of days, the wooden floor has stretched, each pine tile becoming larger and the two single beds that used to be separated by the width of the small table are now several paces apart. Your dressing table, loaded with detritus, is under the window and a wardrobe in the corner partially obscures a new passageway that leads out of the eastern side of the house.\n\nThe beds are new. It had been your suggestion. You had surprised yourself one night, when, after a couple of glasses of wine, you had said to Derek, \"Shall we get single beds, do you think? You need to get up so early, and you know how I toss and turn and keep you awake sometimes.\"\n\nDerek had looked up, surprised. \"I suppose we might as well,\" he had said, after a pause, \"it's not as though we need a double at our time of life.\"\n\nIt had been a strange feeling, that first night, when the new beds had been unpacked and covered in freshly bought linen. Twenty five years of sleeping next to a warm, breathing body, and space to throw out an arm or a leg and still feel supported, replaced by open space each side of you. It had been a strange feeling, but not an unpleasant one, and you had slept better that first night than in a long time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the detritus", "response": "Just your accumulated personal items that seem to have built up over the years. A small avalanche of lipsticks and mascara bottles, hairbrushes and curlers, foundation and pins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Through the window, you can see the driveway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the driveway", "response": "From here you can see over the driveway and a little way along the street.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "Which do you mean, your bed or Derek's bed?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at your bed", "response": "A single bed. It's quite small, but comfortable. After twenty years of sharing a bed, you had forgotten how pleasurable it was to be able to sleep in your own space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the derek's bed", "response": "Derek prefers a much harder mattress to you. He says it's good for his back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dust", "response": "You rub the map.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wardrobe", "response": "A large wooden wardrobe in the corner of the room. It is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wardrobe", "response": "You open the wardrobe, revealing your and Derek's clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine clothes", "response": "A thicket of greys and green, the clothes hang listlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the wardrobe", "response": "You get into the wardrobe.\n\nIn the wardrobe you can see your and Derek's clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You would have to get out of the wardrobe first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the wardrobe.\n\nThis has always been your favourite room. The large south facing window lets in plenty of light which makes it brighter than the rest of the house. However, over the last couple of days, the wooden floor has stretched, each pine tile becoming larger and the two single beds that used to be separated by the width of the small table are now several paces apart. Your dressing table, loaded with detritus, is under the window and a wardrobe in the corner partially obscures a new passageway that leads out of the eastern side of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "As you walk through the entrance, the air seems to shimmer\nsomehow.\n\nYou recognise this room. It's the downstairs hallway in your Aunt May's house. It has the same musty becalmed air, smelling of age and dust.\n\nThe old clock in the corner punctuates the seconds with its deep bass ticking. All the pictures are still on the wall - lined up ancestors and forgotten relatives mixing with cheap reproductions of Monet's landscapes. A musty old sofa against the wall is lit up by the one window. A door to the south leads into your Aunt's front room.\n\nYou were here only last month. Just before your Aunt was finally shipped off to the old folk's home. It wasn't a pleasant visit. Aunt May had been quiet, pensive, sad even. She had spent the whole time staring out of the window into her garden and hardly speaking. When you came in, Aunt May had been sat ramrod straight in her armchair. She turned her head when you entered the room, but hardly seemed to recognise you.\n\nShe had been upset. Your Aunt Anna was taking her to an old folk's home because she was getting too frail to look after herself. When she had asked you if she couldn't come and live with you, a big part of you wanted to say yes. But, with the move, and everything that was happening with Samantha, it just seemed as though the fight with Derek would be too daunting.\n\nSo you had made some excuses.\n\nOn your way out she had looked up at you. \"Remember me,\" she had said. \"But not like this.\" You hadn't known how to respond. So you had left quietly, closing the lounge door behind you. Your mother's younger sister, Anna, had taken May to the home two weeks later. You haven't seen her since.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pictures", "response": "A brief history of your maternal family tree. Uncles and aunts you have a passing acquaintance with mingle with more distant relatives. Dotted here and there are Monet prints. Your Aunt May loved Monet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sofa", "response": "Your Aunt May has had this faded old thing for years. It was in her caravan when you were a child.\n\nShe always told you it was a wedding present . When you pointed out that she had never been married, Aunt May would tap her nose and wink. As a young woman, you pretended to be annoyed but secretly you were delighted that this woman had so many secrets. So many hidden sides to her. You always hoped that when you reached her age, your life would have been as complicated and interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Through the window, you can see the vegetable garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the garden", "response": "Aunt May's garden used to be beautiful. And productive. She grew all kinds of vegetables and fruit. When she visited, it was always with a basket in which were unlikely combinations of odd vegetables. Aubergines mixed alongside purple french beans and baby turnips. Now, with her advancing years, she has let it become overgrown and wild.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clock", "response": "Aunt May has had this clock forever. Its tick is like a constant note in your life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the map", "response": "You see that since yesterday, there is a new door on the west wall of the hallway, and a new door east of the Main Bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Despite her age, Aunt May keeps her home spotlessly clean. The window allows her to watch the comings and goings in the street from her strategically positioned armchair. An old dresser holds brass ornaments and a selection of glass flowers. The only door leads back out into the hallway.\n\nOn the dresser is an old folk's home leaflet.\n\nAunt May sits in her chair, hands folded quietly in her lap, staring out of the window. She looks up and smiles wanly. It seems to take her a while to recognise you. \"Hello, Elaine love,\" she says, eventually. \"It's nice that you could drop in, especially now I'm not going to be here much longer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to May", "response": "To engage in a conversation, try to ASK Aunt May ABOUT something, TELL Aunt May ABOUT something, or SHOW Aunt May something. Or, even, try saying \"hello\". Once you are chatting, you can just use \"ASK ABOUT something\", or if you are feeling confident, as a short hand, just \"A something\". You could also ask Aunt May to do things using: Aunt May, GO SOUTH for example.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about may", "response": "\"Hi, Aunt May,\" you say.\n\n\"Yes, dear?\" she asks.\n\n\"How are you, Auntie May?\" you ask.\n\n\"I'm fine, thank you,\" she assures you. \"Not that any of you care.\"\n\nAunt May sighs heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the leaflet", "response": "\"Shady Willow Retirement Community\". The photographs make it look quite nice.\n\nAunt May shifts in her seat, and clasps her hands in her lap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about yourself", "response": "You prattle on for a while about your life, and the move, and Derek and the kids, but it's not long before you run out of things to say, and the enormous silence in the room reasserts itself.\n\n\"Sounds like things are going well,\" says Aunt May, but she shakes her head slightly. \"I'm surprised you've got time to come and visit.\"\n\nAunt May lets out a sigh that seems to come right from deep inside her. \"\"Oh, Elaine,\" she says, \"they're wanting me to go to an old folk's home. I don't want to go. They're saying I'm not right on my own because of the fire.\"\n\nThe call with Aunt Anna had been difficult. After the fire, she had wanted you to take Aunt May \"for a few weeks while we get her sorted out\". You had thought at the time, with some justification, that it was unfair of her to ask at such short notice. Anna is only just older than you. She has plenty of space in her house now her kids have left home. She blamed her husband. \"He's always working,\" she had said. \"I don't think I can cope with her by myself.\" You had demurred, making some excuses about moving house and Samantha being difficult. \"You could at least try, Elaine,\" Anna had ended the call by saying. \"We don't ask you to do much for the family.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about the fire", "response": "\"Did you have a fire?\" you say.\n\n\"Just a little accident,\" replies Aunt May. \"I nodded off while my dinner was on the stove.\"\n\nAunt May turns her head slightly to look up the street, but you can't see what she is looking at.\n\n\"I know I can't stay,\" says Aunt May, and her voice catches for a moment, \"but it would be nice to live with someone I loved rather than all those strangers.\"\n\nAunt May had stayed with Anna for just a short time. She moved back into her flat despite Anna's protestations. Anna wanted to sell May's house. To do it up and use the money to fund May's final years in an old folks home. Your other aunts had disagreed. They wanted to get May a nurse - to let her stay here amongst all her things. The conversation had passed you by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask May about Anna", "response": "\"How is Aunt Anna?\" you ask.\n\n\"Don't talk to me about her\", says your Aunt, her voice raising slightly. \"She's no sister of mine. Forcing me into that Shady Willows place. It's a place for old people. Not for me.\"\n\nAunt May looks at you directly. \"I know you've had a tough time recently, Elaine, she says, \"and I don't want to put on you, but you've got all that spare space now Brady and Sam are gone, and I know you're lonely what with Derek working all the time. Perhaps I could come and stay with you? We could be company for each other, and I could help out a bit around the house. What do you say?\"\n\nDo you tell Aunt May \"yes\" or \"no\"?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"I'd love to have you, Aunt May,\" you reply. \"You're welcome to say as long as you like.\"\n\nAunt May smiles, and a tear trickles slowly down the side of her nose. \"I knew you'd come through, Elaine,\" she says. \"You've always had the kindest heart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hug may", "response": "You place a kiss against your Aunt's dry cheek. She smiles, but doesn't turn to face you.\n\n> ASK MAY ABOUT DEREK\n\n\"Derek's been working hard,\" you say. \"He says he is up for a promotion\"\n\n\"I remember when you met him,\" replies Aunt May. \"You two looked good together.\"\n\nAunt May coughs, and dabs at her lips with a small handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about the garden", "response": "\"Your garden's a bit overgrown,\" you say. \"Doesn't Mr Turner come around anymore?\"\n\n\"No,\" replies Aunt May. \"I can't really afford him these days on my pension, and I don't get out there much anymore.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell May about the house", "response": "\"We're moving house,\" you say. \"Derek has picked us a little bungalow up cheap. It's going to be much less work now the kids have left home.\"\n\n\"Does it have a garden?\" asks Aunt May. \"You always loved gardening.\"\n\nYou don't answer, because you realise you are not entirely sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bye", "response": "Aunt May just shakes her head. \"I'm sure with your young legs, you could do that,\" she says.\n\nAunt May wipes a weary hand across her face.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Despite her age, Aunt May keeps her home spotlessly clean. The window allows her to watch the comings and goings in the street from her strategically positioned armchair. An old dresser holds brass ornaments and a selection of glass flowers. The only door leads back out into the hallway.\n\nOn the dresser is an old folk's home leaflet.\n\nAunt May sits in her chair, hands folded quietly in her lap, staring out of the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flowers", "response": "You used to play with the brass ornaments as a child. They are a mix of circus animals and ancient horse brasses. The glass flowers are your Aunt's pride and joy. She has collected them for years.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dresser", "response": "A chipped white antique dresser.\n\nOn the dresser is an old folk's home leaflet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "On your way out of the room, Aunt May looks up at you. \"I'll see you soon,\" she says, with a wide smile, \"just give me a call when you're ready for me.\" Her smile turns slightly wolfish. \"I'll call Anna and give her the good news.\"\n\nThe old clock in the corner punctuates the seconds with its deep bass ticking. All the pictures are still on the wall - lined up ancestors and forgotten relatives mixing with cheap reproductions of Monet's landscapes. A musty old sofa against the wall is lit up by the one window. A door to the south leads into your Aunt's front room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The window is shut: you'd break the glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This has always been your favourite room. The large south facing window lets in plenty of light which makes it brighter than the rest of the house. However, over the last couple of days, the wooden floor has stretched, each pine tile becoming larger and the two single beds that used to be separated by the width of the small table are now several paces apart. Your dressing table, loaded with detritus, is under the window and a wardrobe in the corner partially obscures a new passageway that leads out of the eastern side of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Away from the faint light from the stairwell, the hall is darker, and the pictures that continue to line the walls are more indistinct. A little more light spills in from the open door. The door in the north wall leads to Samantha's room, opposite it, your and Derek's room, and the hallway stretches to the west. To the east, a doorway leads into the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The hallway has no windows. It's always been a dingy place when the doors to the bedrooms are closed, but the open door allows some light to creep in. Pictures line the walls, barely illuminated. To the south of you is the spare room, opposite it, Brady's room and the hallway stretches toward the east side of the house. A flight of stairs leads down into the entrance hall, and the new white door hangs open next to the staircase to the west.\n\nThe rubber plant you brought home from the garden centre a year after you moved in sits on a small plinth in the corner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The walls and floor seem to glow, as if lit by something inside the very fabric of the building. The only exit is back out to the hallway to the east.\n\nIn the centre of the room, an old fashioned movie projector sits atop a plinth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the projector", "response": "It looks exactly like the projector your Aunt May used to have. Maybe she still does.\n\nWhen you were a child, every time your Mum took you to Aunt May's, the projector would make an appearance. Aunt May delighted in showing films of the family and films she had taken on her travels. Year after year, new footage emerged. It seemed never ending. You favourite movie was of your Mum as a young girl, playing on the beach with her sisters. It's a sharp, clear memory. Your Mum looks at the camera for a moment with a half-smile - distracted by something happening just off screen - and it was like you were there with them.\n\nThe projector is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the projector", "response": "The projector crackles to life, the reels beginning to whirr and spin. On the wall opposite the door, silently, a white square of projected light appears.\n\nThe white square is split and slashed by the visual crackle of fleeting imperfections and the number three flashes up, surrounded by a dark circle. Then this disappears and is replaced by the number two. Then the number one. The countdown stops, and the screen shows only pure white light.\n\nThe film ends, to be replaced with crackles and dashes of visual noise. There is a clatter from the projector, and then a high speed whirring as it rewinds itself to the beginning. With a click, the white square disappears as the projector switches off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plinth", "response": "The plinth is a twisted, organic looking column leading up to a small platform, on top of which is an old-fashioned movie projector.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "The glassed front door leads directly south onto the driveway, and carpeted stairs angle up to the first floor. Doors lead east to the lounge and the dining room to the north. The room is bare except for an occasional table next to the front door in the southern wall, on which the telephone and answering machine squat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the answering machine", "response": "The display on the answering machine is blank. The play messages button is right next to the display.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A slim plastic phone in its cradle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "A small wooden table you bought to stand the phone on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Sometimes you think this room is made entirely from memories: the barometer on the wall that has indicated rain for years; the picture of your daughter, staring defiantly at the camera, flanked by the peaks of mountains; the wood paneling, a forgotten texture below the bookshelves; the books themselves, all green and blue leather - alphabetised soldier-sentries; a balding sofa and chair where Derek spends most of his evenings staring at the TV mounted to the wall.\nThe too-small window overlooks the front driveway and lets in only just enough light.\n\nWhen you came to view the house, eight years ago this coming May, the first thing you had noticed was this window. A south facing room should be bright, sunlit, welcoming. Over the years, you had always meant to change it - to get the builders in and make it larger. Maybe a bay-window in which you could sit and read while the sun warmed your shoulders.\n\nBut for some reason you had never got round to it, and now, if you are being honest with yourself, you are glad. Some days, you spend all day in here, curled up on the sofa, welcoming the tepid light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sofa", "response": "Over the years the leather of the sofa has become shiny and worn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the barometer", "response": "This was your Aunty May's. It's never worked. The needle has always been stuck halfway between rain and drizzle.\n\nAunt May gave it to you for your sixteenth birthday. It was an odd present, being broken even back then, but you had dutifully smiled and accepted it. Your father had hung it up in your bedroom where it lived on the wall between (and occasionally covered by) posters of Pink Floyd and, later, Nirvana.\n\nWhen she gave it to you, your Aunt had said \"It's always useful for a sixteen year old to know the weather.\" She had said it with a wink, before planting a hairy kiss on your cheek. According to your mother, May had always been the strange sister. The oldest of six, she let her grey hair flow long and wild over her shoulders and had lived most of her life in a caravan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Derek joined a book club. It sent him one blue leather bound classic per month for two years. Then it sent him one green bound work by Dickens. Now it's sending him red bound works by authors in their \"American Masters\" series. Neither he nor you have every actually read one, although you did start \"Little Dorrit\" once. The text was so small and dense though you kept drifting off to sleep and reading the same paragraph over and over again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "A large flat screen attached to the wall opposite the window. Derek insisted on getting the largest. It is currently switched off, and the darkened screen shows a weakened reflection of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tv", "response": "You switch the TV on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "A large flat screen attached to the wall opposite the window. Derek insisted on getting the largest. It is switched on, and a game show desperately tries to gain your attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "A large flat screen attached to the wall opposite the window. Derek insisted on getting the largest. It is switched on, and a news program desperately tries to gain your attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "A large flat screen attached to the wall opposite the window. Derek insisted on getting the largest. It is switched on, and a talk show desperately tries to gain your attention.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Sometimes you think this room is made entirely from memories: the barometer on the wall that has indicated rain for years; the picture of your daughter, staring defiantly at the camera, flanked by the peaks of mountains; the wood paneling, a forgotten texture below the bookshelves; the books themselves, all green and blue leather - alphabetised soldier-sentries; a balding sofa and chair where Derek spends most of his evenings staring at the TV mounted to the wall.\nThe too-small window overlooks the front driveway and lets in only just enough light.\n\nThe TV spills sounds and flickering images into the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the tv", "response": "You switch the TV off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "All the bric-a-brac on the sideboard has been packed away for the move, leaving only dusty imprints on the wood. It had been filled with colourful plates and cups and seldom-used cookery books and odds and ends that the family had brought back from various holidays that couldn't find another home. Now the brown boxes on the floor and table, taped and anonymous, only serve to remind you of how much there is left to do before the removal van arrives next week.\n\nIt hadn't been your idea to sell the house. Now, with the move only a few days away, the sheer volume of things you have accumulated as a family is entirely daunting. You have tried to pack, but instead, half way through filling a box, you find yourself wandering around the house with an ornament or a lamp or a small table in your hands, wondering where to put it.\n\nWhen he gets home from work, Derek doesn't say anything, but you can sense his frustration that the pile of packed boxes in the dining room hasn't grown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sideboard", "response": "This was your mother's, who had got it from her mother. It covers most of the wall against which it stands. You can't remember a time in your life when it wasn't present in your home.\n\nYour mother gave it to you when you were first married, and had moved into the little flat over the shop. \"A good start,\" she had said, \"something to build on.\"\n\nIt had been far too big for your tiny new home, but you and Derek, laughing, had maneuvered it into place. You remember it had covered half of the kitchen door, so you both had to enter the room sideways.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The kitchen is due an update - it feels very seventies, with a faux marble worktop, dark wood-effect cupboards and garish tiling. The refrigerator is covered in scraps of paper and bills, all held in place by magnetic capital letters. The back door leads out of the east wall into the garden.\n\nThe kitchen in the new house is smaller than this. That's OK, though. You don't spend as much time in here as you used to when the kids were at home. Derek usually doesn't get home until after he's eaten. The last time you cooked a proper meal was probably a couple of months ago. Before Sam left. You had cooked her favourite, lasagna, because she said she didn't feel well, and she had looked so tired and unhappy. You wanted to cheer her up. Straight afterward, she had run to the toilet to throw it all back up again.\n\nA calendar on the wall shows a grid of boxes for the month, all covered in small handwriting.\n\nOn the refrigerator is a yellow post-it note.\n\nThe clock on the wall ticks the seconds away into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look athe post-it note", "response": "\"I'll be home at 7.00 pm. Derek.\"\n\nThat's so like Derek. To put his name. As if you wouldn't know who had written it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine clock", "response": "The clock reads 3:13 pm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine calendar", "response": "Today your only job, according to the calendar, is to pack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fridge", "response": "The fridge has become Derek's filing cabinet. It's where he puts all the unpaid bills and reminders and bank statements, all held in place in some sort of order by a magnetic alphabet.\n\nOn the refrigerator is a yellow post-it note.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "The mostly empty shelves remind you that you need to tell Derek to go to the supermarket on his way home from work tomorrow. When you let go of the handle, the fridge door closes by itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the back door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "High fences surround the garden, giving it an air of privacy, sheltered from the street and any watchful eyes peeping from behind curtains in the neighbour's windows. A small patio area, attached to the side of the house, on which is a table and a set of peeling wooden chairs gives way to scrubby grass that you haven't quite got around to cutting for far too long.\n\nDerek calls this your \"little patch of wilderness\". That's his half-joke that isn't a joke at all, but instead, really it's a cutting indictment wrapped up in humour - contempt masked with levity.\n\n\"You can't even look after the bloody garden,\" Derek snapped at you once, after an argument about something you can't even remember. \"It's what you wanted. It's why we moved here for goodness sake.\"\n\nWhen you were first married, gardening had been your passion. You inherited it from your mother, you suppose, whose own garden was, each year, a wondrous mass of colour and life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The kitchen is due an update - it feels very seventies, with a faux marble worktop, dark wood-effect cupboards and garish tiling. The refrigerator is covered in scraps of paper and bills, all held in place by magnetic capital letters. The back door leads out of the east wall into the garden.\n\nA calendar on the wall shows a grid of boxes for the month, all covered in small handwriting.\n\nOn the refrigerator is a yellow post-it note.\n\nThe clock on the wall ticks the seconds away into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the back door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clock", "response": "The clock reads 3:23 pm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "All the bric-a-brac on the sideboard has been packed away for the move, leaving only dusty imprints on the wood. It had been filled with colourful plates and cups and seldom-used cookery books and odds and ends that the family had brought back from various holidays that couldn't find another home. Now the brown boxes on the floor and table, taped and anonymous, only serve to remind you of how much there is left to do before the removal van arrives next week.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The glassed front door leads directly south onto the driveway, and carpeted stairs angle up to the first floor. Doors lead east to the lounge and the dining room to the north. The room is bare except for an occasional table next to the front door in the southern wall, on which the telephone and answering machine squat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first opening the front door)\n\nBounded by small grass borders that, via some unseen line down the middle, demarcate your house from the next, the driveway stretches out onto the road to the south. The open plan nature of the street is disconcerting.\n\nYou're still not used to it, this openness of space, and this sharing of communal grass. When you grew up, each house in your terrace had its own little square patch of front garden bounded by a low stone wall. Sometimes with iron railings, painted green, or rusty, or shining black. Each garden had been a little statement by the house owner or tenant. Some had been lush bursts of colour in the spring and summer, some unkempt and weed-choked. Others had only been bare flagstones, empty and stark.\n\nIt had been a matter of pride for your mother, that little twelve foot by twelve foot patch of space. Your father had the back yard reserved for his chickens and vegetables. Your mother owned that front space. It was hers entirely. She made it reflect herself.\n\nYour car is parked here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the car", "response": "Just a small grey car. You can't even remember what make and model it is. Nor can you remember the last time your drove it anywhere. Derek occasionally takes it out for a spin \"to stop it seizing up.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the car", "response": "The car is locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock car", "response": "You don't have the keys. It's been so long since you've driven anywhere that you're not even sure where they are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the front door", "response": "You close the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The bathroom is all in pale green. The toilet, sink and bath were here when you moved in, and there never really seemed to be a reason to change them. The mirrored cabinet above the sink steams up when anyone has a shower and because of the poor ventilation through the small fan in the window, the grouting between the tiles has always had mold problems.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The old clock in the corner punctuates the seconds with its deep bass ticking. All the pictures are still on the wall - lined up ancestors and forgotten relatives mixing with cheap reproductions of Monet's landscapes. A musty old sofa against the wall is lit up by the one window. A door to the south leads into your Aunt's front room.\n\nThe room feels empty somehow, as if all the life in it has drained away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Despite her age, Aunt May keeps her home spotlessly clean. The window allows her to watch the comings and goings in the street from her strategically positioned armchair. An old dresser holds brass ornaments and a selection of glass flowers. The only door leads back out into the hallway.\n\nThe room feels empty somehow, as if all the life in it has been used up.\n\nOn the dresser is an old folk's home leaflet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The window is shut: you'd break the glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The bed under the window seems further away today. The floor, uncluttered with Sam's possessions, has stretched slightly during the night. You used to be able to touch the empty desk from the door, and the walls, bare of brightly coloured posters, appear taller - the ceiling more distant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Look", "response": "You see that since yesterday, there is a new door on the west wall of the hallway, and a new door east of the Main Bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Sometimes you think this room is made entirely from memories: the barometer on the wall that has indicated rain for years; the picture of your daughter, staring defiantly at the camera, flanked by the peaks of mountains; the wood paneling, a forgotten texture below the bookshelves; the books themselves, all green and blue leather - alphabetised soldier-sentries; a balding sofa and chair where Derek spends most of his evenings staring at the TV mounted to the wall.\nThe too-small window overlooks the front driveway and lets in only just enough light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine barometer", "response": "This was your Aunty May's. It's never worked. The needle has always been stuck halfway between rain and drizzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Derek", "response": "To engage in a conversation, try to ASK Derek ABOUT something, TELL Derek ABOUT something, or SHOW Derek something. Or, even, try saying \"hello\". Once you are chatting, you can just use \"ASK ABOUT something\", or if you are feeling confident, as a short hand, just \"A something\". You could also ask Derek to do things using: Derek, GO SOUTH for example.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Derek about the work", "response": "\"Hi,\" you say.\n\n\"Hmm?\" he replies non-commitally, his eyes not leaving the TV.\n\n\"How was work?\" you ask.\n\nDerek shrugs. \"It was ok. Nothing exciting to report.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Derek about May", "response": "When you first told Derek about Aunt May being shipped off to a home, he had been furious. \"Why didn't you tell me,\" he had said, barely containing his anger. \"She could have come and lived with us. You know you would have liked that. You and May have always got along.\"\n\n\"I thought you would have been against it,\" you had said, weakly.\n\nDerek had sighed. \"Don't put this on me.\" You haven't really spoken about it since, and Derek looks so tired you're too nervous to bring it up again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Derek about the move", "response": "\"Are you looking forward to moving?\" you ask.\n\n\"It will be nice to get out of this place and start afresh,\" says Derek. \"We need to hurry up with the packing though. The movers will be here next Tuesday.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Derek about the projector", "response": "You start to tell Derek about the white room, and the plinth and the projector. But something holds you back. You realise you don't want to. That this is somehow too private to share with this man, even though you've been married all these years.\n\nDerek switches over the channel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Derek about food", "response": "\"You need to go to the supermarket tomorrow,\" you remind him. Derek grunts in acknowledgement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tomorrow", "response": "In your dreams, you are running towards something, but it is constantly moving away from you. There is a hand reaching out, but it is just out of reach and someone is calling you but you can't quite make out if it is a child or just the wind blowing through a partially open window.\n\n\n\nThe morning has disappeared. You don't know where it went. The house continues its inexorable growth. Earlier, when you were dusting the upstairs hallway it seemed to take so much longer than usual, and a new door had appeared through which you were sure you could hear muted voices.\n\nActually, you had woken late, and, slightly disoriented by the brightness of the morning, it had taken you a while to get your bearings. The phone had been ringing. You lay in bed and let it go to answer phone.\n\nAs you drifted in and out of a doze, you listened to Aunt May pottering about the house. She tends to rise early. Ever since she moved in, each morning, you lie in bed listening to her moving about. It's comforting somehow, and, with Derek working so many hours, it's been nice to have someone to share the last days in the house with.\n\nThe kitchen is due an update - it feels very seventies, with a faux marble worktop, dark wood-effect cupboards and garish tiling. The refrigerator is covered in scraps of paper and bills, all held in place by magnetic capital letters. The back door leads out of the east wall into the garden.\n\nA calendar on the wall shows a grid of boxes for the month, all covered in small handwriting.\n\nOn the refrigerator is a yellow post-it note.\n\nThe clock on the wall ticks the seconds away into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "I have to work late tonight. I'll stay in town. Derek.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "All the bric-a-brac on the sideboard has been packed away for the move, leaving only dusty imprints on the wood. It had been filled with colourful plates and cups and seldom-used cookery books and odds and ends that the family had brought back from various holidays that couldn't find another home. Now the brown boxes on the floor and table, taped and anonymous, only serve to remind you of how much there is left to do before the removal van arrives next week. The pile of boxes seems to be higher than yesterday, but that's ok, because the room seems to have grown to accommodate them.\n\nOn a plinth in the corner, a rubber plant brushes the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plant", "response": "Since being moved into the sunlight of the dining room, the plant seems to have had a new lease on life. Its leaves stretch above your head, oriented toward the warming sun through the window.\n\nIt was Aunt May's doing, moving the plant into the dining room. As soon as she had seen it on the upstairs hallway, she had cried out in horror and insisted that you move it immediately. Derek wasn't too happy. He doesn't like clutter. But you have to admit, in the sunshine, the plant transforms a little. Leaves that were dull greyish green suddenly sparkle in the sun. You could almost imagine it sighing with relief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open boxes", "response": "They are securely taped shut and there's nothing in there that you really want to have to pack again.\n\nIn the distance, you can hear the phone ringing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The glassed front door leads directly south onto the driveway, and carpeted stairs angle up to the first floor. Doors lead east to the lounge and the dining room to the north. The room is bare except for an occasional table next to the front door in the southern wall, on which the telephone and answering machine squat.\n\nThe display on the answering machine flashes with the number 1.\n\nYou hear noises coming from the room above. Aunt May keeps unconventional hours. Sometimes you will hear her moving about the house in the early hours of the morning. Some days she stays in bed till lunchtime and the house remains quiet. Most days, she stays in her room, sitting in her chair and watching through the window. Her presence is comforting somehow, and you know you can always pop in and have someone to talk to.\n\nThe phone on the hall table rings insistently.\n\nThe phone stops ringing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "A briskly impersonal voice says \"Hi, Mrs Paterson?\" There is a pause. \"It's Churchill's removals, you were going to call to arrange a time for pick up on Tuesday. Can you give us a call please and ask to speak to Karen. Thank you.\"\n\nThe machine whirrs on to the next message.\n\nDerek's voice, made small by distance, says \"Hi Elaine, it's me. I just got a call at the office from the removals people. I guess you forgot to ring them. I told them to turn up at about 10 am on Tuesday. See you tomorrow night.\"\n\nThe machine falls silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tomorrow", "response": "In your dreams, you are running towards something, but it is constantly moving away from you. There is a hand reaching out, but it is just out of reach and someone is calling you but you can't quite make out if it is a child or just the wind blowing through a partially open window.\n\n\n\nThe morning has disappeared. You don't know where it went. The house continues its inexorable growth. Earlier, when you were dusting the upstairs hallway it seemed to take so much longer than usual, and a new door had appeared through which you were sure you could hear muted voices.\n\nActually, you had woken late, and, slightly disoriented by the brightness of the morning, it had taken you a while to get your bearings. The phone had been ringing. You lay in bed and let it go to answer phone.\n\nAs you drifted in and out of a doze, you listened to Aunt May pottering about the house. She tends to rise early. Ever since she moved in, each morning, you lie in bed listening to her moving about. It's comforting somehow, and, with Derek working so many hours, it's been nice to have someone to share the last days in the house with.\n\nThe kitchen is due an update - it feels very seventies, with a faux marble worktop, dark wood-effect cupboards and garish tiling. The refrigerator is covered in scraps of paper and bills, all held in place by magnetic capital letters. The back door leads out of the east wall into the garden.\n\nA calendar on the wall shows a grid of boxes for the month, all covered in small handwriting.\n\nOn the refrigerator is a yellow post-it note.\n\nThe clock on the wall ticks the seconds away into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The glassed front door leads directly south onto the driveway, and carpeted stairs angle up to the first floor. Doors lead east to the lounge and the dining room to the north. The room is bare except for an occasional table next to the front door in the southern wall, on which the telephone and answering machine squat.\n\nThe display on the answering machine flashes with the number 1.\n\nYou hear noises coming from the room above. Aunt May keeps unconventional hours. Sometimes you will hear her moving about the house in the early hours of the morning. Some days she stays in bed till lunchtime and the house remains quiet. Most days, she stays in her room, sitting in her chair and watching through the window. Her presence is comforting somehow, and you know you can always pop in and have someone to talk to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Call removals company", "response": "Your fingers hover over the buttons, but you can't bring yourself to dial. The thought of speaking to a disembodied voice fills you with dread.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "A briskly impersonal voice says \"Hi, Mrs Paterson?\" There is a pause. \"It's Churchill's removals, you were going to call to arrange a time for pick up on Tuesday. Can you give us a call please and ask to speak to Karen. Thank you.\"\n\nThe machine falls silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe phone on the hall table rings insistently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You answer the phone", "response": "You move towards the phone, but you just can't bear to speak to a disembodied voice right now.\n\nThe phone on the hall table rings insistently.\n\nThe phone stops ringing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the answering machine", "response": "The display on the answering machine is flashing with the number 1. The play messages button is right next to the display.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "Derek's voice, made small by distance, says \"Hi Elaine, it's me. I just got a call at the office from the removals people. I guess you forgot to ring them. I told them to turn up at about 10 am on Tuesday. See you tomorrow night.\"\n\nThe machine falls silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "The hallway has no windows. It's always been a dingy place when the doors to the bedrooms are closed, but the open door allows some light to creep in. Pictures line the walls, barely illuminated. To the south of you is Aunt May's room, opposite it, Brady's room and the hallway stretches toward the east side of the house. A flight of stairs leads down into the entrance hall, and the new white door hangs open next to the staircase to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The hallway stretches endlessly from east to west through the house. The blank white walls are broken only by a door to the north.\n\nYou can hear voices, low and muted, coming through the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "As you walk through the entrance, the air seems to shimmer\nsomehow.\n\nYou recognise this place. It's been months since you were here, but this is where you brought Samantha after she had told you. There she is, sat in the same chair, shoulders sagging sullenly, face turned away from you, chin in her hand. She looks so young.\n\n(first opening the reception door)\n\nThe reception area is painted a clinical light green and smells of disinfectant. Rows of chairs line the walls. A reception desk in the corner hold pamphlets and leaflets. The only other door apart from the one back into your house is in the opposite wall.\n\nYou pause at the entrance for a moment. The only sounds in the room are the clicking heels of the nurse behind the reception desk. The cold air in the room makes you shiver.\n\nThe receptionist stands behind the desk staring out into space.\n\nSamantha sits quietly on one of the chairs. She barely glances up at you as you enter the room.\n\nAt first, Samantha had not wanted you to come. Sat at the dining room table, she had hid her face behind her hair when she told you. \"I've got an appointment at the Doctor's,\" she had said. \"I guess you won't be coming.\"\n\nBut you had surprised yourself. \"Of course I'm coming,\" you had replied. \"You're not keeping it,\" you said, before you had even thought what that would mean. The words had come directly out of you, an unintended accusation.\n\nSamantha's head had jerked upwards. \"It's my baby,\" she said, \"I'll do what I want.\"\n\nThe Doctor had been kind, if a little distant. Samantha had trembled next to you while he outlined her options, each more distressing than the last. When he had asked her what she wanted to do, Samantha, her face white and close to tears, had not replied. She had turned to look at you, her eyes beseeching you to answer for her. \"What do you think, Mum?\" she had said. You hadn't replied straight away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sam about the baby", "response": "\"Hey, Sam,\" you say.\n\n\"Yeah?\" replies Sam.\n\n\"When did you know?\" you say.\n\n\"I suppose I guessed when I took the pregnancy test,\" replies Sam, sarcastically. You restrain the urge to shout at her. There's so many things you could say.\n\nSamantha sighs with irritation and rubs her face.\n\n\"What do you think, Mrs. Paterson?\" the doctor had asked you, eventually. \"This is Samantha's decision, but I'm sure she would like your guidance and support.\"\n\nYou had answered him. Samantha had burst into tears and ran from the room.\n\nIt's my choice,\" Samantha had screamed in the car on the way home. And then she had left. Gone to live with her boyfriend. When Derek had come home, you had hesitantly told him about Sam's condition, and the row. Derek had been furious. Not about the pregnancy, that he had accepted without comment. He had been furious with her because she had left home. \"Of course we would have supported her,\" he had said. \"Whatever she decided.\"\n\nYou had kept quiet.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The reception area is painted a clinical light green and smells of disinfectant. Rows of chairs line the walls. A reception desk in the corner hold pamphlets and leaflets. The only other door apart from the one back into your house is in the opposite wall.\n\nThe receptionist stands behind the desk writing something down.\n\nSamantha sits quietly on one of the chairs.\n\n\"Miss Paterson?\" the receptionist says, brightly, interrupting your train of thought. \"Doctor Bridge will see you now.\"\n\nSamantha glances in your direction, gets up unwillingly from the chair and walks slowly into the Doctor's office.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The reception area is painted a clinical light green and smells of disinfectant. Rows of chairs line the walls. A reception desk in the corner hold pamphlets and leaflets. The only other door apart from the one back into your house is in the opposite wall.\n\nThe receptionist stands behind the desk tidying up the desk surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The hallway stretches endlessly from east to west through the house. The blank white walls are broken only by a door to the north.\n\nYou can hear voices coming through the open door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The hallway has no windows. It's always been a dingy place when the doors to the bedrooms are closed, but the open door allows some light to creep in. Pictures line the walls, barely illuminated. To the south of you is Aunt May's room, opposite it, Brady's room and the hallway stretches toward the east side of the house. A flight of stairs leads down into the entrance hall, and the new white door hangs open next to the staircase to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The walls and floor seem to glow, as if lit by something inside the very fabric of the building. The only exit is back out to the hallway to the east.\n\nIn the centre of the room, an old fashioned movie projector sits atop a plinth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on projector", "response": "The projector crackles to life, the reels beginning to whirr and spin. On the wall opposite the door, silently, a white square of projected light appears.\n\nThe picture coarsens and then slips into focus. Aunty May is sitting in a featureless bedroom staring out of the window. As you watch, a nurse comes into the room and puts a tray down on the table next to her. Aunt May doesn't turn her head.\n\nThe film ends, to be replaced with crackles and dashes of visual noise. There is a clatter from the projector, and then a high speed whirring as it rewinds itself to the beginning. With a click, the white square disappears as the projector switches off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the back door)\n\nHigh fences surround the garden, giving it an air of privacy, sheltered from the street and any watchful eyes peeping from behind curtains in the neighbour's windows. A small patio area, attached to the side of the house, on which is a table and a set of peeling wooden chairs gives way to scrubby grass that you haven't quite got around to cutting for far too long.\n\nWhen Aunt May arrived, she had taken one look at the garden and given a gasp of horror. \"You used to like gardening,\" she had said, shaking her head. \"We've got to get this sorted out.\"\n\n\"There's no point, Aunt May,\" you had replied. \"We're moving soon.\"\n\nAunt May had looked at you shrewdly. \"Hmmm....\" she had said, \"We'll see. This new house of yours, does it actually have a garden?\"\n\n\"Not really,\" you had said.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "You bought the garden furniture set after the patio had been built. It's only a cheap wooden affair, now patched and faded from the weather.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Sometimes you think this room is made entirely from memories: the picture of your daughter, staring defiantly at the camera, flanked by the peaks of mountains; the wood paneling, a forgotten texture below the bookshelves; the books themselves, all green and blue leather - alphabetised soldier-sentries; a balding sofa and chair where Derek spends most of his evenings staring at the TV mounted to the wall.\nThe too-small window overlooks the front driveway and lets in only just enough light, especially now the room is so much larger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Your Aunt has put her chair in front of the window where she can watch the comings and going of your neighbours. Her old sofa is against one wall alongside the grandfather clock that ticks time away in its deep voice. On the other side of the room is the dresser, weighed down with glass ornaments. Pictures cover most of the walls.\n\nWhen Aunt May moved in, somehow you managed to squeeze all her things into the room. Fortunately, the room has expanded to accept them.\n\nAunt May sits in her chair, hands folded quietly in her lap, staring out of the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about the garden", "response": "\"Hi, Aunt May,\" you say.\n\n\"Yes, dear?\" she asks.\n\nYou remember when you used to visit Aunt May years ago. You always took away a bag of home gown vegetables. The kids complained in the car on the way home, knowing that for the next few days, there would always be something green on their plate. \"I used to like growing my vegetables,\" says Aunt May. \"Frozen veg just aren't the same.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask May about Derek", "response": "\"He never seems to have much time these days,\" you say. \"It's like he's avoiding being at home.\"\n\n\"Don't you worry, love, he's always loved you deep down.\" Aunt May shakes her head. \"It's a funny thing, isn't it. The more you love them, the further away they seem to get.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask May about Samantha", "response": "\"Sam...\" you begin, but it's still too raw.\n\nAunt May looks at you and smiles sadly, \"Children are hard, aren't they? I never had any, but I watched over your aunties and your mother growing up and they never stopped breaking my heart.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about the baby", "response": "Aunt May doesn't respond. She just shakes her head slightly and purses her lips.\n\nAunt May shifts in her seat, and clasps her hands in her lap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about the projector", "response": "You tell Aunt May about the white room, and about the plinth and the projector. She looks out of the window for a while, as if deep in thought. \"I don't know what they are,\" she says, \"but it sounds like there's something that can be changed. It sounds like the past is not always as fixed as you might think.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about the rubber plant", "response": "\"It's still not doing well,\" you say, \"the rubber plant I bought. Do you remember?\"\n\n\"I did tell you to put somewhere more sunny,\" responds Aunt May, a little acidly. \"They like sun on their leaves, a ficus.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about may", "response": "\"I said I'm fine.\"\n\nAunt May sighs heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about yourself", "response": "\"You look nice, love.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about the removals", "response": "Aunt May doesn't respond. She just shakes her head slightly and purses her lips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask may about the barometer", "response": "\"I've still got the barometer you gave me for my sixteenth,\" you say.\n\n\"That's nice,\" says Aunt May, \"I hope you got it fixed.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Your Aunt has put her chair in front of the window where she can watch the comings and going of your neighbours. Her old sofa is against one wall alongside the grandfather clock that ticks time away in its deep voice. On the other side of the room is the dresser, weighed down with glass ornaments. Pictures cover most of the walls.\n\nAunt May sits in her chair, hands folded quietly in her lap, staring out of the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pictures", "response": "A brief history of your maternal family tree. Uncles and aunts you have a passing acquaintance with mingle with more distant relatives. Dotted here and there are Monet prints. Your Aunt May loved Monet.\n\nAunt May turns her head slightly to look up the street, but you can't see what she is looking at.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clock", "response": "Aunt May has had this clock forever. Its tick is like a constant note in your life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The hallway has no windows. It's always been a dingy place when the doors to the bedrooms are closed, but the open door allows some light to creep in. Pictures line the walls, barely illuminated. To the south of you is Aunt May's room, opposite it, Brady's room and the hallway stretches toward the east side of the house. A flight of stairs leads down into the entrance hall, and the new white door hangs open next to the staircase to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The hallway stretches endlessly from east to west through the house. The blank white walls are broken only by a door to the north.\n\nYou can hear voices coming through the open door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Away from the faint light from the stairwell, the hall is darker, and the pictures that continue to line the walls are more indistinct. A little more light spills in from the open door. The door in the north wall leads to Samantha's room, opposite it, your and Derek's room, and the hallway stretches to the west. It seems to be so much longer than yesterday. To the east, a doorway leads into the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Despite her age, Aunt May keeps her home spotlessly clean. The window allows her to watch the comings and goings in the street from her strategically positioned armchair. An old dresser holds brass ornaments and a selection of glass flowers. The only door leads back out into the hallway.\n\nThe room feels empty somehow, as if all the life in it has been used up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search table", "response": "Which do you mean, the small table or the dressing table?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the small table", "response": "You bought this a couple of months ago when you got the new beds. Now both you and Derek have a reading lamp. Derek likes to read late sometimes and at least now the light doesn't spill directly into your eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The reception area is painted a clinical light green and smells of disinfectant. Rows of chairs line the walls. A reception desk in the corner hold pamphlets and leaflets. The only other door apart from the one back into your house is in the opposite wall.\n\nThe receptionist stands behind the desk sorting through some paperwork.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the receptionist about Samantha", "response": "\"Hi,\" you say.\n\n\"How can I help you?\" replies the receptionist.\n\n\"The doctor will see you soon,\" says the receptionist, and smiles without showing her teeth. \"I'm sure you can discuss any issues with him.\" She turns away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pamphlets", "response": "Glossy brochures with titles like \"Is Adoption for You?\" or \"You and Your Baby\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the receptionist about the time", "response": "The receptionist smiles at you, but doesn't respond. She just goes back to her work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait until 5 PM", "response": "You potter around the house until 5:00 pm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The reception area is painted a clinical light green and smells of disinfectant. Rows of chairs line the walls. A reception desk in the corner hold pamphlets and leaflets. The only other door apart from the one back into your house is in the opposite wall.\n\nThe receptionist stands behind the desk tidying up the desk surface.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Your Aunt has put her chair in front of the window where she can watch the comings and going of your neighbours. Her old sofa is against one wall alongside the grandfather clock that ticks time away in its deep voice. On the other side of the room is the dresser, weighed down with glass ornaments. Pictures cover most of the walls.\n\nAunt May sits in her chair, hands folded quietly in her lap, staring out of the window.\n\nAunt May coughs, and dabs at her lips with a small handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The posters on the wall, reminders of winning sports teams and fading rock bands, are further apart than yesterday, as though spaced out and shifted by some unseen hand, showing acres of cream wallpaper. The bed, stripped of sheets, is only a textured mattress, the desk, piled with hockey trophies from his schooldays. Grey light from the window filters into the hallway behind you.\n\nStill no word from Brady. You had hoped that when the phone rang this morning, it was him and it would have been his voice on the answering machine. It was still too hard to actually pick up the phone though - that's why you stayed in bed. Just a message on the machine would have been enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "(first opening the front door)\n\nBounded by small grass borders that, via some unseen line down the middle, demarcate your house from the next, the driveway stretches out onto the road to the south. The open plan nature of the street is disconcerting.\n\nYour car is parked here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The street is too open. There are too many eyes - all those blank windows reflecting and multiplying the world. Even thinking about passing the end of the driveway makes you feel uncomfortable. It's as if, unbounded by anything solid, all that space is too big to endure. It might dissipate you entirely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "(first opening the front door)\n\nThe glassed front door leads directly south onto the driveway, and carpeted stairs angle up to the first floor. Doors lead east to the lounge and the dining room to the north. The room is bare except for an occasional table next to the front door in the southern wall, on which the telephone and answering machine squat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "Which do you mean, the front door, the lounge door or the dining room door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dust plant", "response": "You rub the Rubber Plant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The kitchen is due an update - it feels very seventies, with a faux marble worktop, dark wood-effect cupboards and garish tiling. The refrigerator is covered in scraps of paper and bills, all held in place by magnetic capital letters. The back door leads out of the east wall into the garden.\n\nA calendar on the wall shows a grid of boxes for the month, all covered in small handwriting.\n\nOn the refrigerator is a yellow post-it note.\n\nThe clock on the wall ticks the seconds away into the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clock", "response": "The clock reads 5:18 pm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You watch the tv", "response": "A large flat screen attached to the wall opposite the window. Derek insisted on getting the largest. It is switched on, and an advertisement desperately tries to gain your attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the tv", "response": "You switch the TV off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The reception area is painted a clinical light green and smells of disinfectant. Rows of chairs line the walls. A reception desk in the corner hold pamphlets and leaflets. The only other door apart from the one back into your house is in the opposite wall.\n\nThe receptionist stands behind the desk staring out into space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the chair", "response": "You get onto the chairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait until 6", "response": "You potter around the house until 6:00 pm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "(first getting off the chairs)\n\nThe hallway stretches endlessly from east to west through the house. The blank white walls are broken only by a door to the north.\n\nYou can hear voices coming through the open door.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "Colossal Cash Prize", "cover art", "funny", "IFComp 2019", "IFComp Game", "island", "parser", "steampunk", "treasure hunt", "underwater" ]

[ 1, 6, 6, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Under the Sea:\nThe Treasure of the Santa Tortosa\n\nSome weeks ago at your Adventurers' Society back in London, Keira, the rather cute librarian, mentioned a rumour about a mysterious map buried on a tiny island with a single palm tree somewhere in the Caribbean. Supposedly, the map would lead to the treasure of the sunken galleon Santa Tortosa. After much research and a long journey, you have arrived on the island, and soon you will see whether those rumours were true. Either way, you will definitely have a good story to tell at the next Society meeting!\n\nYou are standing on a lonely beach in the shadow of a single palm tree. Little spots of sunlight are sparkling on the gently rolling waves. In the distance you hear some seagulls. A few steps to the south the ocean begins. Your ship has left, as your expedition team is on its way to other explorations, and will pick you up again afterwards.\n\nYour custom-made scuba gear lies on top of the trunk it came in, close to the water. Its shiny brass helmet shows a reflection of yourself.\n\nYou can see a shovel here.\n\nPS: If you are new to text adventures, enter GUIDE for help.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "shovel: Taken.\nscuba gear: As you prepare for your dive, you notice that the pressure gauge is missing. If you want to handle or wear the scuba gear you have to look for the pressure gauge first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na shovel\nyour waterproof wristwatch (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the watch", "response": "The wristwatch is clearly a modern piece of equipment that even serves as a small, steam-powered analytical engine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Professor Oliver von Bremen, a great adventurer and bon vivant. You were born into Lower-Saxony aristocracy, but have always found the marvels of modern science and engineering much more appealing than the tea party chitchat at court.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "On the lonely beach stands a single palm tree. Little spots of sunlight are sparkling on the gently rolling waves. In the distance you hear some seagulls. A few steps to the south the ocean begins. Your ship has left, as your expedition team is on its way to other explorations, and will pick you up again afterwards.\n\nYour custom-made scuba gear lies on top of the trunk it came in, close to the water. Its shiny brass helmet shows a reflection of yourself.\n\nYou can see a trunk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "Investigation of the log reveals nothing interesting. But it definitely is a nice palm tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ocean", "response": "The ocean is calm, perfect for diving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the helmet", "response": "The brass helmet is part of the scuba gear. It looks big, but being custom-made, it fits you perfectly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trunk", "response": "The trunk is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the trunk", "response": "The trunk is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the trunk", "response": "Under the trunk, you discover the pressure gauge that fell off the scuba gear. You reconnect it, and your gear looks ready to wear now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gear", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour scuba gear\na shovel\nyour waterproof wristwatch (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The terrain in that direction is impassable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "Where do you want to dig?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig in the sand", "response": "You dig aimlessly for a while without finding anything. The location does not seem to be specific enough to make the effort worthwhile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You'll have to say which compass direction to go in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gear", "response": "As you put on the scuba gear you hear a soft, friendly beep in your helmet. A text is projected into your visor:\n\nSteam-Powered Analytical Mobile Engine version 42 ready. Enter\nANALYSE to request helpful suggestions from the system. Repeat for more in-depth analysis if needed. CAUTION: Analysis requires significant energy, so use your brains first. Thank you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first dropping the shovel)\nLagoon\nThe water is chest-deep and crystal clear. A school of fish is swimming close to the bottom. To the south, you can see the reef top beneath the water's surface. The beach lies to the north.\n\nA glass jar is bobbing up and down on the waves. It seems to contain a piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take jar", "response": "As you take the jar, new text appears in your visor: New object detected. Enter INVENTORY to see list of all objects carried.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na glass jar (closed)\na piece of paper\nyour scuba gear (being worn)\nyour waterproof wristwatch (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paper", "response": "The piece of paper inside the jar is crumpled. It seems to be a page torn out of a manual. To read it, you will have to open the jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the jar", "response": "Risk of object damage detected. Opening jar underwater likely to\nsoak contents. Open jar (yes/no)?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The reef top is teeming with life. Marine creatures in all shapes and colours are whizzing around. To the south the deep water shimmers in all shades of blue. To the east you see a coral forest. To the north lies the lagoon.\n\nA snapper looks at you in an almost human way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The water is chest-deep and crystal clear. A school of fish is swimming close to the bottom. To the south, you can see the reef top beneath the water's surface. The beach lies to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "On the lonely beach stands a single palm tree. Little spots of sunlight are sparkling on the gently rolling waves. In the distance you hear some seagulls. A few steps to the south the ocean begins. Your ship has left, as your expedition team is on its way to other explorations, and will pick you up again afterwards.\n\nYou can see a shovel and a trunk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the jar", "response": "You open the glass jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the paper", "response": "(first taking the piece of paper)\nIt looks like a laminated page torn out of a telegrapher's manual. It reads:\n\nLength of a dot (short): one unit. Length of a dash (long): three units.\n\nA . - B - . . . C - . - . D - . . E . F . . - . G - - . H . . . . I . . J . - - - K - . - L . - . . M - - N - . O - - - P . - - . Q - - . - R . - . S . . . T - U . . - V . . . - W . - - X - . . - Y - . - - Z - - . .", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sand", "response": "The beach consists of white sand, which owes its colour to pulverized pieces of dead coral.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the paper in the jar", "response": "You put the piece of paper into the glass jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close jar", "response": "You close the glass jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the jar in the trunk", "response": "The trunk has gotten very sandy inside. Things you might want to put in there are safer elsewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fish", "response": "The school of fish moves like a single unit as it searches the bottom for food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The reef top is teeming with life. Marine creatures in all shapes and colours are whizzing around. To the south the deep water shimmers in all shades of blue. To the east you see a coral forest. To the north lies the lagoon.\n\nA snapper looks at you in an almost human way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snapper", "response": "The yellowtail snapper is a medium-sized fish with clear, silvery eyes. A bright yellow line covers its blue-ish body from the eyes to the deep-forked tail. You feel a strange urge to talk to the snapper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the snapper", "response": "Upon hearing your words, the snapper blows a strange pattern of bubbles: \"OOo oOo o o O oo Oo OOo ooo\". Then it takes a bow as if introducing itself. What is the snapper trying to say?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the greetings to snapper", "response": "The snapper continues to communicate in Morse code, which you can decipher easily: \"Wonderful! I got your language right.\"\n\nThe snapper explains that her name is Sabina, and that she is an ardent fighter for fish rights, famous for her motto \"Don't give a damn about the law of the wild!\" Sabina learned Morse code as a foreign language. She says:\n\n\"I could teach you some basic elements of the fish language so you can talk to other, less cosmopolitan members of our community here. But you have to do me a favour first. The newly discovered colour\npoenk is the latest craze at the reef top. Seahorse Shantal\nwears it all the time. Bring me something poenk, no matter what it is.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You hear another soft beep: another experimental function of your scuba gear! The text in your visor reads:\n\nBody signals and visual analysis suggest accomplishment. Logging\nfor report to Adventurers' Society activated. Choose preferred report text:\n\n(1) A spontaneous inspiration struck me as I was deciphering the bubble code.\n\n(2) As an expert linguist, I ran a quick comparison between ten\nexotic regional dialects, distilling their common quintessential structures, and applying them to an underwater culture. Many can recognize morse code, but only a man of science can put it into the appropriate context!\n\nWhich version of the story shall be logged?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Version 2 logged.\n\nA coral forest of vibrant colours stretches far ahead. The colony forms different levels, with small brain corals cowering close to the ground, and head-high staghorn corals towering over them. To the east you see something that looks like the entrance to a cave. To the south a soft glow illuminates the water. To the west lies the reef top.\n\nBetween the corals a huge, grey napoleonfish is lifting pieces of coral, obviously to exercise its bulking muscles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the napoleon", "response": "The napoleonfish is bigger than you, and heavily built. It sports the typical big hump on its forehead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the brain corals", "response": "As you look at the corals, you hear a soft beep, and text appears in your visor: Corals are marine invertebrates within the class\nAnthozoa of the phylum Cnidaria.\n\nHidden underneath one coral you see a tube sponge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sponge", "response": "The sponge consists of three cylindrical yellow tubes united at the base. Tube sponges can't talk. Therefore you'll never know that this is Tobias the tube sponge, a gentle soul who is secretly in love with the equally silent sea anemone Suzi growing just a few fin strokes away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The reef top is teeming with life. Marine creatures in all shapes and colours are whizzing around. To the south the deep water shimmers in all shades of blue. To the east you see the coral forest. To the north lies the lagoon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sabina about the poenk", "response": "\"Poenk,\" Sabina replies, \"is a brand new colour. It's all the rage down here now. It looks like a mix of purple, red and white.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A coral forest of vibrant colours stretches far ahead. The colony forms different levels, with small brain corals cowering close to the ground, and head-high staghorn corals towering over them. To the east you see something that looks like the entrance to a cave. To the south a soft glow illuminates the water. To the west lies the reef top.\n\nThe huge, grey napoleonfish with its large frame and bulking muscles is here, still exercising.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "It is pitch dark and you can't see a thing. You are likely to be eaten by a grue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A coral forest of vibrant colours stretches far ahead. The colony forms different levels, with small brain corals cowering close to the ground, and head-high staghorn corals towering over them. To the east you see the entrance to the cave. To the south a soft glow illuminates the water. To the west lies the reef top.\n\nThe napoleonfish is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet sponge", "response": "Nothing happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are in deep blue water. Here, in the dark ocean, you see a wreck: the sunken galleon Santa Tortosa. At the side of the wreck you see a hatchway. To the east seems to be a plankton rendezvous. To the north you can see the reef top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the galleon", "response": "The wreck of the Santa Tortosa towers over you. Its hull is overgrown with plants and corals. On one side of the sunken galleon you see a hatchway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the corals", "response": "The plants and corals grow on all parts of the wreck. They have transformed the old galleon into something new, and made it a part of the sea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hatchway", "response": "Some planks got stuck in the frame of the hatchway. They would need to be pushed aside to enter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the planks", "response": "The planks are made of wood that has remained surprisingly solid underwater.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A beautiful glow illuminates a small part of the area. Patches of turqouise light sparkle in the blue water. The bioluminescent glow is caused by plankton. To the west you see deep blue water. To the north lies the coral forest.\n\nYou can see some plankton here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plankton", "response": "As you look at the plankton, you hear a soft beep, and text appears in your visor: Plankton is a collection of diverse organisms that\nlive in large bodies of water and are unable to swim against a current. These organisms include bacteria, algae, protozoa, and drifting animals.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the plankton", "response": "You hold the plankton in your hand. Since you have to hold your fingers firmly closed, no light can emanate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The terrain in that direction is impassable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "After a soft beep, a short text appears in your visor: Danger detected. Swimming around with the plankton in your clenched fist will cut it off from its water supply. Killing a simple life form before its next leap in evolution is discouraged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the plankton", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A coral forest of vibrant colours stretches far ahead. The colony forms different levels, with small brain corals cowering close to the ground, and head-high staghorn corals towering over them. To the east you see the entrance to the cave. To the south a soft glow illuminates the water. To the west lies the reef top.\n\nThe napoleonfish is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are in deep blue water. Here, in the dark ocean, you see a wreck: the sunken galleon Santa Tortosa. At the side of the wreck you see a hatchway. To the east lies the plankton rendezvous. To the north you can see the reef top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A beautiful glow illuminates a small part of the area. Patches of turqouise light sparkle in the blue water. The bioluminescent glow is caused by plankton. To the west you see deep blue water. To the north lies the coral forest.\n\nYou can see some plankton here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the plankton in the jar", "response": "You put the plankton into the glass jar. The jar now emanates a soft light.\n\nAgain, you hear a soft beep and see some projected text:\n\nBody signals and visual analysis suggest accomplishment. Logging\nfor report to Adventurers' Society activated. Choose preferred report text:\n\n(1) Seeing the beautiful underwater landscape in the soft light of\nthe plankton in the jar felt almost dreamlike. I wish the members of the Adventurers' Society could see it!\n\n(2) Fashioning a lamp from plankton and a jar might seem like a\npretty straightforward idea. But gentlemen, have you ever tried to catch plankton in the tidal drift? This requires not only a quick brain but also quick reflexes!\n\nWhich version of the report shall be logged?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Version 1 logged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A coral forest of vibrant colours stretches far ahead. The colony forms different levels, with small brain corals cowering close to the ground, and head-high staghorn corals towering over them. To the east you see the entrance to the cave. To the south lies a plankton rendezvous. To the west lies the reef top.\n\nThe napoleonfish is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The soft bioluminescent plankton light reflects from the walls of a small cave. At one end, the tides have carved a narrow passage into the rock that is just wide enough to get through. The passage leads up. To the west lies the coral forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You arrive at the shore of a hidden island enclosed by high walls that look like the crater of an extinct volcano. Nature seems completely undisturbed here, as if nobody ever set foot on this shore before. The island is so small that you can see its entire perimeter from here. To the north lies a small forest. To the east you see a small meadow. A narrow passage in a submerged rock formation leads down.\n\nAs you step out of the water, your bulky suit makes you stumble, and you hear a splashing sound. A small metal rod got loose from your scuba gear and fell into the water. You'll really have to have a word with the Quartermaster!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rod", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "The rod is a shiny, straight piece of metal. Fortunately, it doesn't seem to be required for the scuba gear to function.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scuba", "response": "Attached to a large brass helmet with a visor is a rubbery suit. The gear extracts oxygen from water, giving you plenty of time underwater. You remember the Quartermaster's smile when she told you that it included several other experimental features that would reveal themselves in time. A metal rod got loose, but fortunately it doesn't seem to be required for the scuba gear to function.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "(first taking the scuba gear off)\n(first dropping the scuba gear)\nSmall Forest\nBeyond the edge of the forest, the vegetation first gets denser, then opens up to reveal a clearing. In the high canopy of the treetops, you hear the enchanting songs of exotic birds. To the south lies the shore.\n\nThere is a Beautyberry bush, carrying a single berry.\n\nA small hogerbear is sitting on a tree stump in the clearing. The bear is wearing green dungarees and holds a triangle in its left paw. Occasionally, it attempts to strike the triangle with its right paw, but this produces no sound. The bear looks at you with a sad expression.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bush", "response": "The bush grows small and dense. It is the only one of its kind you have seen here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the berry", "response": "The berry has a colour of splendid purple. It looks juicy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bear", "response": "The hogerbear is about the size of a child, and looks extremely cuddly. As you keep looking at the creature, your analytical engine completes a visual scan and informs you that hogerbears are a peaceful and rather musical species (with a questionable sense of fashion) that were thought to be long extinct.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the triangle", "response": "The triangle is silver in colour and looks shiny in the sun. It is a little smaller than the instruments you remember from your school days.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the rod to bear", "response": "The hogerbear takes the metal rod, strikes it against the triangle, and listens to its beautiful chime. A happy expression spreads over the creature's face. It takes out a flat stone and hands it to you, apparently as a thank-you gift.\n\nYou have a flat stone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stone", "response": "The flat stone is about the size of your palm. It seems to be a tool of some kind. Held in one hand, its bottom side, which is not covered by your fingers, looks scratched and worn.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Beyond the edge of the forest, the vegetation first gets denser, then opens up to reveal a clearing. In the high canopy of the treetops, you hear the enchanting songs of exotic birds. To the south lies the shore.\n\nThe hogerbear sits on its stump, happily playing its triangle with the metal rod.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You hear nothing unexpected.\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the berry", "response": "After a soft beep, text appears on your wristwatch: Colour\nsuggests that eating berry would endanger health status.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Again you hear a soft beep and see some projected text:\n\nBody signals and visual analysis suggest accomplishment. Choose preferred report text:\n\n(1) The hogerbear conveyed an inspiring impression of calmness and wisdom. If man and beast ever find a common language, we might be able to learn a lot from the hogerbears' culture.\n\n(2) There it stood: a huge hogerbear, baring its razor-sharp\nteeth, and displaying its menacing claws. A lesser man might have turned to run, but as a true adventurer, I just saw an opportunity to prove myself worthy.\n\nWhich version of the report do you want to log?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Version 1 logged.\n\nYou arrive at the shore of a hidden island enclosed by high walls that look like the crater of an extinct volcano. The island is so small that you can see its entire perimeter from here. To the north lies the small forest. To the east you see a small meadow. A narrow passage in a submerged rock formation leads down.\n\nYou can see your scuba gear here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Little snow sheep graze on a verdant pasture. The grass is speckled with ground cover plants in vivid colours. To the west lies the shore.\n\nIn the middle of the meadow lies a grindstone.\n\nYou can also see a daisy and a poppy here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the daisy", "response": "The daisy has a colour of pure white. It looks very fresh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the poppy", "response": "The poppy has a colour of bright red. It looks lush and succulent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "PUT BERRY, DAISY, POPPY ON GRINDSTONE", "response": "purple berry: Done.\ndaisy: (first taking the daisy)\nDone.\npoppy: (first taking the poppy)\nDone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Grind", "response": "With which tool do you want to grind?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Grind with stone", "response": "As it turns out, grinding is hard work, but after a few minutes, you produce some poenk liquid on the grindstone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na flat stone\na glass jar (providing light and open)\nsome plankton\nyour waterproof wristwatch (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the liquid", "response": "The liquid is of vivid poenk colour, a mix of purple, white, and red.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the liquid on stone", "response": "(first taking the poenk liquid)\nYou can't pick up the poenk liquid with your bare hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the liquid in the jar", "response": "You put the poenk liquid into the jar. Combined with the plankton, it emanates a soft poenk glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You arrive at the shore of a hidden island enclosed by high walls that look like the crater of an extinct volcano. The island is so small that you can see its entire perimeter from here. To the north lies the small forest. To the east you see the small meadow. A narrow passage in a submerged rock formation leads down.\n\nYou can see your scuba gear here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear gear", "response": "(first taking the scuba gear)\nYou put on the scuba gear.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The soft bioluminescent plankton light reflects from the walls of a small cave. At one end, the tides have carved a narrow passage into the rock that is just wide enough to get through. The passage leads up. To the west lies the coral forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A coral forest of vibrant colours stretches far ahead. The colony forms different levels, with small brain corals cowering close to the ground, and head-high staghorn corals towering over them. To the east you see the entrance to the cave. To the south lies a plankton rendezvous. To the west lies the reef top.\n\nThe napoleonfish is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jar to Sabina", "response": "Sabina is overjoyed: \"Wonderful, now I have my own poenk accessory! Seahorse Shantal will be so jealous.\"\n\nAfter Sabina has calmed down, which takes a while, she remembers her promise, and teaches you some basic elements of the fish language. Now you are able to communicate with other sea dwellers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The reef top is teeming with life. Marine creatures in all shapes and colours are whizzing around. To the south the deep water shimmers in all shades of blue. To the east you see the coral forest. To the north lies the lagoon.\n\nSabina the snapper is here, happily playing with her jar of poenk liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the napoleon", "response": "The napoleonfish looks at you with a grumpy expression: \"As if we didn't have enough life forms in the sea talking all the time. But now that you have learned the fish language, I am sure you want something from me... so go ahead: Ask me to do something.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "The napoleonfish has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask him to come with yourself", "response": "The napoleonfish frowns: \"You're lucky that I'm fed up with these corals. Perhaps a quest offers a more interesting way to exercise my muscles. Lead the way, I will follow.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Again you hear a soft beep and see some projected text:\n\nBody signals and visual analysis suggest accomplishment. Choose preferred report text:\n\n(1) The napoleonfish acted grumpy, but it had a heart of gold. It agreed to follow me without demanding anything in return.\n\n(2) I locked eyes with the gigantic napoleonfish and held its\ngaze. Soon enough, the beast wavered and broke eye contact. Although brawny and larger than myself, it soon accepted me as its master, and followed me to do my bidding.\n\nWhich version of the story do you want to log?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Version 1 logged.\n\nTiny stray patches of turquoise light are sparkling in the water, clearly the remains of a plankton light up. To the west you see deep blue water. To the north lies the coral forest.\n\nThe napoleonfish arrives with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are in deep blue water. Here, in the dark ocean, you see a wreck: the sunken galleon Santa Tortosa. At the side of the wreck you see a hatchway. To the east lies the plankton rendezvous. To the north you can see the reef top.\n\nThe napoleonfish arrives from the east.\n\nThe napoleonfish looks at you, then at the surroundings: \"This is a nice spot. I think I'll stay here for a while. Is there anything else in particular that you would like to ask me to do, before we go our separate ways?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the napoleon to push the planks", "response": "It almost seems as if the napoleonfish is grinning. \"Ah, not strong enough, are you? Well, let's see���\"\nThe napoleonfish pushes hard against the planks, muscles bulging. After a moment, the planks give way, and the hatchway is open. You can enter the wreck now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the wreck", "response": "You are in the former captain's cabin. Apart from an emblazoned wooden chest, the small room contains no furniture. The chest is guarded by a huge octopus. Exiting the wreck takes you back into the deep blue water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the octopus", "response": "The huge octopus looks at you with mild regret. It says: \"I can imagine why you came here. But to open the treasure chest of the Santa Tortosa, you have to give me the password first - and it changes with each adventurer who reaches me. I have been guarding this treasure for centuries. Until this day, only four brave heroes made it here, and tried to guess the password. But they all failed.\n\nTo the first one I said: 1. And he should have answered: 3.\n\nTo the second one I said: 2. And he should have answered: 3.\n\nTo the third one I said: 3. And he should have answered: 5.\n\nTo the fourth one I said: 4. And he should have answered: 4.\n\nTo you I say: 5. What is your answer?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say 4", "response": "The octopus looks surprised: \"Very well, Human, that is the correct password. But the ancient rules dictate that you explain your choice to me, to show that you are truly worthy. So tell me, what did you have to do to find the password? Name at least one action you had to perform after we started talking. If you do not want to give the explanation right away, you can always come back to give your answer. I will await your return.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say count", "response": "The huge octopus bends its tentacles in a congratulary gesture: \"Courageous adventurer, you have indeed solved the riddle of the Santa Tortosa! I deem you worthy to finally open this chest that I have been guarding for centuries. Inside you will find a treasure fit for a king.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open chest", "response": "You open the chest - and catch your breath. The chest is filled to the top with heavy gold coins and precious gemstones in all colours of the rainbow. You also notice a delicate locket that would make a nice thank-you present for Keira the cute librarian.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the chest", "response": "The octopus waves its tentacles: \"Not so greedy, young adventurer. Rules dictate that you take the items one by one out of the chest.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the locket", "response": "You take the locket. At that moment, the treasure chest and all its remaining contents seem to lose their colour. Within seconds, they turn into dull, hard rock.\n\nThe octopus smiles faintly. \"You have made your choice, and this reveals more about you than any riddle can. This is the true treasure of the Santa Tortosa. My task is complete, and I look forward to finally roaming the reefs again. You may exit now. Farewell!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "Again you hear a soft beep and see some projected text:\n\nBody signals and visual analysis suggest accomplishment. Choose preferred report text for the Adventurers' Society:\n\n(1) The dwellers of the sea are as calm and peaceful as the ocean.\nThe octopus sentinel stood its ground and guarded the treasure without harming or threatening me. When I found the password everything was as it was meant to be.\n\n(2) Only the huge octopus stood between me and the treasure. This dreadful sentinel had guarded the chest for centuries; no living being had ever overcome it. Great courage and cunning were necessary to get past it and snatch the treasure out of its menacing tentacles!\n\nWhich version do you want to log?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Version 1 logged.\n\nYou are in deep blue water. Here, in the dark ocean, you see a wreck: the sunken galleon Santa Tortosa. At the side of the wreck you see a hatchway. You can enter the wreck. To the east lies the plankton rendezvous. To the north you can see the reef top.\n\nThe napoleonfish is here.\n\nAfter a soft beep, text appears in your visor:\n\nVisual sensors suggesting treasure was found. Analytical engine\nused 0 time(s). Ship has been called. Location tracking suggests to keep heading north to return to beach, where vessel will be\nwaiting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The reef top is teeming with life. Marine creatures in all shapes and colours are whizzing around. To the south the deep water shimmers in all shades of blue. To the east you see the coral forest. To the north lies the lagoon.\n\nSabina the snapper is here, happily playing with her jar of poenk liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "On the lonely beach stands a single palm tree. Little spots of sunlight are sparkling on the gently rolling waves. In the distance you hear some seagulls. A few steps to the south the ocean begins. Your ship has returned, anchoring close to the lagoon. Your wristwatch displays a final message: BOARD vessel to return to London, report\nto Adventurers' Society, and complete mission.\n\nYou can see a piece of paper, a shovel and a trunk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig under the tree", "response": "(first taking the shovel)\nUnder the palm tree you find an old wooden box. In the box you find a map.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the map", "response": "(first taking the map)\n\nThe map looks battered and old. The writing has faded over the years, but it is still legible:\n\n\"Only a bold adventurer can find the treasure of the Santa Tortosa. But beware the mighty sentinel that guards it! If you dare, go south-south-south. Fortune and eternal truths await you at the end of your journey.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Board ship", "response": "Your journey home is pleasantly uneventful.\n\nAs soon as your feet touch British soil again, they take you to Keira the librarian, who is overjoyed at the beautiful locket you present to her. Giving the treasure away in this manner without appraisal of its monetary or historical value may not have been the best move for your career or financial situation, but it opens her heart to you, and you fall madly in love with each other.\n\nWhen you return your scuba gear and wristwatch to the Quartermaster, she is both amazed at your intelligence and a little annoyed that you had no need at all to use her latest invention, the built-in analytical engine, for any clues.\n\nTwo weeks later, you receive a formal invitation letter to speak before your fellow members at the Adventurers' Society.\n\nYour presentation amazes and excites the audience. When you finish your report, the applause is overwhelming.\n\nLater, at the bar, you hear two esteemed members of the Society talking and praising both your courage and talent to spice up stories. They look forward to your future reports. If you continue to prove yourself, they might even consider proposing you for the Society's Hall of Fame. That is something you have been working towards for a long time!", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "absurd", "adventure", "fantasy", "homage", "humor", "IF Competition 2013", "IFComp Game", "Jungle", "parody", "Temple", "walkthrough" ]

[ 2, 7, 4, 3, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Somewhere in the deep, dark swamps of the Everglades, far beyond the reach of civilized men in their London cut double-breasted suits and their bowler hats, strides a man; TEX BONAVENTURE, professional treasure hunter, semi-professional card sharp, and a rank amateur at judging when to stride and when to row a boat.\n\nThere are rumors as to what he's after. Some say diamonds. Some say gold. Others, with a knowing twinkle in their eye, beckon the curious close and whisper a single word - \"youth\".\n\nStruggling to slighly higher ground, what you really want at this moment is a dry pair of socks, and to go back in time about three days and smack yourself about the head for not buying a canoe when you could. That is, until you part some vines, and there it stands before you, what the natives call Cukovcatv Em Oheskatv Vhesaketv:\n\nThe Temple of the Water of Life.\n\nTrying to shake the mud from your boots, but only splattering it around a little, you eventually give up and look around. Atop a small hillock in the middle of the Everglades sits a foreboding stone temple. Its entrance, a wide arch of stone, lies to the east, up the hill. To the west lies the swamp from which you came. The swamp also lies to the north. And the south. Probably to the east, as well, behind the temple, but you can't see that from here. It's a safe bet, though. 99% of the Everglades is swamp. And 1% is, apparently, hidden temples.\n\nA huge green fierce snake bars the way to the temple.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You're carrying a whip and a gun. You are wearing the battered fedora and an old leather jacket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "Tex Bonaventure, card carrying treasure hunter, card playing hustler, been called a card by a few ladies... or was that a \"cad\"? You have to admit, you're beginning to feel your years a little bit. What you would kindly describe as \"grizzled\", the less-kindly (such as some of those ladies) would describe as... well, they would say \"grizzled\", too but they wouldn't say it with respect. A bit of disdain and clenched teeth, perhaps.\n\nPerpetually \"one last score\" away from retirement. But this might be the last, for real. The rumor has it, treasure for the rest of your life is in the top of the Temple... and that life can be very long indeed. Very very long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "[Use TALK TO to interact with characters.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the snake", "response": "You hiss a bit at the snake. The snake hisses back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip snake", "response": "You crack your whip at the snake. You whip it good. The snake becomes even more agitated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the snake", "response": "(with the gun)\nYou take steady aim, walking close to the snake. You only have one bullet, and you don't want to miss. Unfortunately, the snake also takes steady aim, and strikes your calf just as you fire. You end up putting a hole in the snake, but it put two into you.\n\nYou feel the red hot pain of the venom injected into your calf, and the icy grip of death approaching as the poison starts traveling through your body. Your only hope is antivenom - which you don't have with you. And somehow you don't think you'll survive the three day hike to civilization.\n\nSo your REAL only hope is that the rumors are true. That at the pinnacle of the temple there flows the Water of Life.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 1 - \"I hate snakes, Jock!\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Atop a small hillock in the middle of the Everglades sits a foreboding stone temple. Its entrance, a wide arch of stone, lies to the east, up the hill. To the west lies the swamp. The swamp also lies to the north. And the south. Probably to the east, as well, behind the temple, but you can't see that from here. It's a safe bet, though. 99% of the Everglades is swamp. And 1% is, apparently, hidden temples.\n\nThe remains of a snake, sans head, lie in front of the temple.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the remains", "response": "Well, it used to be a snake. Now it's kind of a... fleshy rope? Terribly thick belt?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the remains", "response": "You gingerly pick up the snake, by the tail. Not that you're scared of snakes. Who would be scared of snakes? ...bats, on the other hand... ick.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 2 - \"Surely this will be useful?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fedora", "response": "Yeah, you know exactly what this hat looks like. After all, it is YOUR hat, right?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jacket", "response": "The coat has served you well. Perhaps that's why you wear it, even in the sweltering jungle heat. It's currently zipped up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the jacket", "response": "You open an old leather jacket, revealing a bundle of maps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the maps", "response": "They got you this far. Unfortunately, all the maps end at the entrance of the temple - none describe the inside at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the swamp", "response": "You don't relish the thought of the three day hike out of the swamp. But the riches available in the temple will paradoxically lighten your load - or at least happy thoughts of spending them will. Plus... if the rumors are true... perhaps your arthritis will be a thing of the past, soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You limp through the archway, into the dark temple interior...\n\nTaking your first breath of cool, moist air inside the temple, you look around in wonder...\nTex Bonaventure and the Temple of the Water of Life\n\n6/12N)## The Entry Hall of the Temple\nThe first thing you notice in the Temple is the sound of water, dripping and running and burbling. The sound seems to come from all around you, all directions. Combined with the relative coolness and darkness of the temple (cool and dark compared to the Everglade swamp outside), you feel like sleeping. But sleep, with your injuries, means death. Green, speckled light spills in from the exit arch of the Temple, which lies to the west. There are three passageways in the stone walls of the temple, set to the south, east and north. In the middle of the entry hall is a large statue, looming over anyone that may enter the temple.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 4 - \"Late title card!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the statue", "response": "Looking at the statue, it is absorbed as a gestalt. Aspects are not seen in order, but all at once. It is only when you look away, you can think logically about it. You remember a man made of pure white alabaster at the center, arms flung outward, touching both north and south walls with his hands. His head, you recall, was thrown back - but whether in agony or ecstasy you can't tell. Around the man water, frozen water, raised in a spout. That can't be right. Some stone, translucent blue, the likes of which you've never seen in all your years of treasure hunting. The statue is twenty feet tall, at the minimum, and somehow occupies most of the room, yet is hard to look directly at... perhaps you could look at pieces of it at a time, if you're careful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the head", "response": "The statue's head is thrown back, and not easily visible from the floor of the entrance hall. Which is odd, because in your opinion, (and you have many opinions about strange, cultish temples, having been in a few), the point of a statue is to convey the desired emotion in the viewer. And that is difficult to do, if you can't see the face. It makes you uneasy. Very uneasy, the more you look at it. Which, you belatedly realize, may be the point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Water", "response": "The sound of water is all around, but there is none in evidence in this room. Except for the huge statue, but that's more a representation of water, really.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the statue", "response": "There's no real good way to get a grip on the statue. Although, in your attempts, you do notice a small hole in the base of the statue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "There seems to be a small hole at the base of the statue - about the size of your arm, it extends deep into the mesmerizing blue stone - you can't see the bottom of it, but there appears to be something stuck in it. Perhaps you should reach in and get it out. Nothing bad will happen. The more you look at the stone, the deeper you peer into the hole, the more you just want to put your arm into it. Perhaps now. Certainly now. \"Let's PUT MY ARM INTO THE HOLE!\" cries a voice in your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the arm in the hole", "response": "You reach into the hole, obeying your mental compulsion. Almost immediately, a band of metal blades constricts around your arm, severing it from your shoulder. You are able to stagger two steps away before you collapse to the ground in shock, and bleed out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in hole", "response": "You peer deep into the hole. It looks like the item is... woven, somehow. Perhaps it's... a rope necklace? Perhaps you should reach in and get it out. Nothing bad will happen. The more you look at the stone, the deeper you peer into the hole, the more you just want to put your arm into it. Perhaps now. Certainly now. \"Let's PUT MY ARM INTO THE HOLE!\" cries a voice in your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the statue", "response": "Looking at the statue, it is absorbed as a gestalt. Aspects are not seen in order, but all at once. It is only when you look away, you can think logically about it. You remember a man made of pure white alabaster at the center, arms flung outward, touching both north and south walls with his hands. His head, you recall, was thrown back - but whether in agony or ecstasy you can't tell. Around the man water, frozen water, raised in a spout. That can't be right. Some stone, translucent blue, the likes of which you've never seen in all your years of treasure hunting. The statue is twenty feet tall, at the minimum, and somehow occupies most of the room, yet is hard to look directly at... perhaps you could look at pieces of it at a time, if you're careful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spout", "response": "The blue stone that makes up the statue's depiction of water is mesmerizing. You've never seen anything like it. If only you could cut just a few slabs of it - a few hundred carats of it, enough to bring to a jeweler - that would be enough to finance the rest of your life, you're sure. Hah. Of course, if you can't find the Water of Life, the rest of your life won't be very long, or hard to finance, you're sure. The more you stare at the blue sparkling stone, though, the more you want to stare at it. There's only one flaw, one tiny hole in the stone, at the very base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip statue", "response": "You crack your whip at the statue. That'll show it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "There seems to be a small hole at the base of the statue - about the size of your arm, it extends deep into the mesmerizing blue stone - you can't see the bottom of it, but there appears to be something stuck in it. Perhaps you should reach in and get it out. Nothing bad will happen. The more you look at the stone, the deeper you peer into the hole, the more you just want to put your arm into it. Perhaps now. Certainly now. \"Let's PUT MY ARM INTO THE HOLE!\" cries a voice in your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The Bottomless Pit - Well, *A* Bottomless Pit\nWind whistles through this room, threatening to knock you off balance, and off your precarious perch on a small ledge of stone. And that would be bad. Very bad. Because (and here you risk a quick glance down) the pit you are skirting appears to be bottomless. And not one of those \"bottomless\" pits where it's all build-up and hyperbole, and the bottom is QUITE visible a mere half-mile down, thank you very much. No, this is a PROPER bottomless pit. You fancy you can hear something, very faint, very soft, in the wind whistling out of the pit. To the south is the entrance hall of the temple, and much solider ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "No. It couldn't have been. Or... was it indeed a voice comparing sizes of knives?\n\nSomething about the ledge catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at something", "response": "You can't see anything that would be causing the faint sound. They must be very far away.\n\nSomething about the ledge catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ledge", "response": "The ledge of stone juts out a little, a few feet maybe, above the pit. To the south of the ledge is the entrance hall of the temple. On one side of the ledge there are faint scrape marks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the marks", "response": "It appears as if people - or animals - cling to the edge of the ledge at this point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You succumb to the temptation, and leap into the bottomless pit. The fall doesn't kill you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Green, speckled light spills in from the exit arch of the Temple, which lies to the west. There are three passageways in the stone walls of the temple, set to the south, east and north. In the middle of the entry hall is a large statue, looming over anyone that may enter the temple.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the head", "response": "The statue's head is thrown back, and not easily visible from the floor of the entrance hall. Which is odd, because in your opinion, (and you have many opinions about strange, cultish temples, having been in a few), the point of a statue is to convey the desired emotion in the viewer. And that is difficult to do, if you can't see the face. It makes you uneasy. Very uneasy, the more you look at it. Which, you belatedly realize, may be the point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the statue", "response": "There's no real good way to get a grip on the statue. Although, in your attempts, you do notice a small hole in the base of the statue.\n\nThere's no real good way to get a grip on the statue. Although, in your attempts, you do notice a small hole in the base of the statue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A Twisty Maze of Passages, All Alike\nYou find yourself at the entrance to a twisty maze of passages. They all look alike, from here. The entrance itself is different than the entry hall of the temple - the floor is slightly softer than the rock in the entry hall, and the walls, more hand-hewn, with rounder edges. I mean, the whole temple is hand-hewn, to be certain, as the ancients who built it didn't have access to power tools, certainly. The exit lies to the west, a circular passageway ringed with white rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "With a shimmer of relief that starts at the base of your spine and works its way up to your scalp, you leave the maze and re-enter the temple entryway.\n\nGreen, speckled light spills in from the exit arch of the Temple, which lies to the west. There are three passageways in the stone walls of the temple, set to the south, east and north. In the middle of the entry hall is a large statue, looming over anyone that may enter the temple.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk through the south passageway, and immediately several spiked metal poles slam to the ground behind you, trapping you in the room you just entered.\n\nOh. It's going to be one of THOSE temples.\n\nLooking around the room, you spy... not much. A bunch of things that seem... flatter than they should be. Walls that are a bit... greasy? In the north wall is a passageway back to the entry hall of the temple - and it is completely barred by spiked metal poles. And, peering up, there is, of course, the spiked ceiling which doesn't APPEAR to be descending... at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the poles", "response": "The poles block the north passageway out of the room. Which happens to be the only passageway out of the room. There are small gaps in between each of the poles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gaps", "response": "t7/46quishy-Makin\n\nThey are much too small to squeeze through. Even if you were greased. You would have to be an inch thick. AND greased. Through the gap you spy a small glimmer of light sparkling on the wall on the other side of the poles.\n\nWith a tortured screech of metal gears grinding, the ceiling quivers, shakes free a small spray of dust, then begins descending.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sparkle", "response": "t7/47quishy-Makin\n\nAha! There, on the far side of the poles, is a small switch - but it seems to be too far away to reach, unaided.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip sparkle", "response": "t7/48quishy-Makin\n\nYou try to whip the switch, but fail to flip it. It seems your whip is too flexible to move the switch - you're going to need something harder.\n\nThe ceiling inches closer to you. Those spikes look... sharp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "t7/49quishy-Makin\n\nYou're carrying the corpse of a snake, a whip and a gun. You are wearing the battered fedora and an old leather jacket.\n\nA bit of dust falls, as the ceiling nears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ceiling", "response": "t7/50quishy-Makin\n\nThe ceiling appears very large, very heavy, very flat (except for the spikes), and very much headed down toward you.\n\nThe ceiling inches closer to you. The spikes draw your attention, to a point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the spike", "response": "t7/51quishy-Makin\n\nThey're hardly portable.\n\nYou look around the room to try to spy anything that might help your escape... hmmm...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get pole", "response": "t7/52quishy-Makin\n\nThey're hardly portable.\n\nThe ceiling inches closer to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw gun at the switch", "response": "t7/53quishy-Makin\n\nFutile.\n\nSurely something here must be useful... it would be cruel to design an evil temple with an UNESCAPABLE death trap!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the things", "response": "t7/54quishy-Makin\n\nJust... you know, things. That are flatter than things normally are. Like... you're pretty sure that torches have more than two dimensions. And skulls should be able to hold brains. And arm bones should - well, that bone is mainly okay. Looks like you would be safe, if you were less than one inch tall.\n\nThe ceiling inches closer to you, almost within reach. The spikes protruding downwards are certainly within reach. Something glints on one of them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get bone", "response": "t7/55quishy-Makin\n\nYou grab the arm bone from amongst the pile of flattened rubble. This might be useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You flip the switch with the bone", "response": "t7/57quishy-Makin\n\nYou struggle to squeeze the bone through the gap - but it just won't slide through. This bone needs lubrication - and quickly!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the grease on the bone", "response": "t7/58quishy-Makin\n\nYou rub the bone along the greasy wall, coating it nicely. Better hold on tight, it's slippery now.\n\nThe ceiling inches closer to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You flip the switch with the bone", "response": "t12/59uishy-Makin\n\nYou use the arm bone to flip the switch. The poles blocking the doorway retract - and more importantly, so does the ceiling, quickly winching back into its original position.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 5 - \"What POSSIBLE use is one of these rooms in a non-abandoned, fully functioning temple?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spikes", "response": "t12/60uishy-Makin\n\nThe spikes are metal, and about a foot long, and are mercifully not moving closer to you at the moment. Dangling from one of the spikes is a metal gauntlet, spiked through the wrist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gauntlet", "response": "t12/61uishy-Makin\n\nYou are unable to reach the gauntlet, as it is too high above your head. Which is partly fortunate. You wouldn't want that spiked ceiling getting much closer, would you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gauntlet", "response": "t8/59quishy-Makin\n\nYou leap, and are just able to grab the gauntlet from the spikes.\nWell done. Now to keep from being impaled or crushed.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 7 - \"Power glove!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You clip the switch with the bone", "response": "t8/59quishy-Makin\n\nI didn't understand that sentence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You flip the switch with the bone", "response": "t13/60uishy-Makin\n\nYou use the arm bone to flip the switch. The poles blocking the doorway retract - and more importantly, so does the ceiling, quickly winching back into its original position.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 5 - \"What POSSIBLE use is one of these rooms in a non-abandoned, fully functioning temple?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gauntlet", "response": "t13/61uishy-Makin\n\nThe gauntlet is made of hardened metal, and long enough to envelop your arm up to your shoulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "t13/62uishy-Makin\n\nYou put on the metal gauntlet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Green, speckled light spills in from the exit arch of the Temple, which lies to the west. There are three passageways in the stone walls of the temple, set to the south, east and north. In the middle of the entry hall is a large statue, looming over anyone that may enter the temple.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "There seems to be a small hole at the base of the statue - about the size of your arm, it extends deep into the mesmerizing blue stone - you can't see the bottom of it, but there appears to be something stuck in it. Perhaps you should reach in and get it out. Nothing bad will happen. The more you look at the stone, the deeper you peer into the hole, the more you just want to put your arm into it. Perhaps now. Certainly now. \"Let's PUT MY ARM INTO THE HOLE!\" cries a voice in your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the arm in the hole", "response": "(a greasy bone in the flaw in the statue)\nTaking a deep breath, you thrust your hand, encased in the gauntlet, deep into the hole at the base of the statue. Almost immediately you hear the shriek of metal on metal, and feel blades bouncing off the gauntlet as the machinery in the hole tries to sever your arm. But you are able to grab the treasure at the bottom of the hole and extract it before the blades can penetrate your armor.\n\nWell, what do you know, the thing at the bottom of the hole was a ball of twine. Valuable!\n\nCongratulationment!® number 8 - \"A 1/200,000th scale model of the World's Largest Ball of Twine!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the twine", "response": "The spool of twine has quite a lot of twine in it. Twine is super useful. It can be... tied to stuff? Or... wrapped around packages? Everybody LOVES twine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the twine to the statue", "response": "You slip a loop of twine around an outcropping on the statue and cinch it tight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You let the twine unroll behind you as you venture east.\n\nA Twisty Maze of Passages, All Alike\nYou find yourself at the entrance to a twisty maze of passages. They all look alike, from here. The entrance itself is different than the entry hall of the temple - the floor is slightly softer than the rock in the entry hall, and the walls, more hand-hewn, with rounder edges. The exit lies to the west, a circular passageway ringed with white rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Letting the twine unroll behind you, you move deeper into the maze.\n\nA Twisty Maze of Passages, All Alike - Except This One is Secreting Stomach Acid\nWell, isn't this peachy. You had a feeling that nothing good would come from wandering into any twisty maze of passages. The twisty maze of passages has widened here, in a large, kidney bean shaped chamber. Various valves line the walls, and the floor is coated in a thick layer of mucus.\n\nA metal pirate hook is jabbed into the side of the stomach, sticking there.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 9 - \"Jason would be proud. (It's Jason, right? Jason sounds right. Well, you're an adventurer, not a professor of history. Or literature. Or historical literature.\n(It's not Jason))\"\nAcid begins to flow through the valves on the walls in a heavy stream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hook", "response": "You yank the hook out of the wall, and a loud groan of pain echoes through the air.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 10 - \"Really internal medicine.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get mucus", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mucus", "response": "It makes it slightly difficult to walk in here. It's so deep, you have no idea what it might hide.\n\nThe acid begins to eat through your clothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the mucus", "response": "You find nothing of interest. Like usual. But adventurers are eternally optimistic!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the valves", "response": "You find nothing of interest. Like usual. But adventurers are eternally optimistic!\n\nThis acid is beginning to make your eyes burn and your throat tingle.\n\n\n\nFist sized muscular holes through which a steady stream of acid is flushing into this chamber.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "A Twisty Maze of Passages, All Alike - Except This One is Secreting Stomach Acid\nThe twisty maze of passages has widened here, in a large, kidney bean shaped chamber. Various valves line the walls, and the floor is coated in a thick layer of mucus. Acid is pooling around you and starting to dissolve parts of your anatomy that you had grown fond of.\n\nThere goes the outer layers of your skin - you didn't need those, anyway. Free chemical peel (is the optimistic way of looking at this)!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You follow the twine, and are able to backtrack your route, leading you to...\n\nGreen, speckled light spills in from the exit arch of the Temple, which lies to the west. There are three passageways in the stone walls of the temple, set to the south, east and north. In the middle of the entry hall is a large statue, looming over anyone that may enter the temple.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You start to go, but decide to untie the twine before you leave.\n\nThe Bottomless Pit - Well, *A* Bottomless Pit\nWind whistles through this room, threatening to knock you off balance, and off your precarious perch on a small ledge of stone. And that would be bad. Very bad. Because the pit you are skirting appears to be bottomless. And not one of those \"bottomless\" pits where it's all build-up and hyperbole, and the bottom is QUITE visible a mere half-mile down, thank you very much. No, this is a PROPER bottomless pit. You fancy you can hear something, very faint, very soft, in the wind whistling out of the pit. To the south is the entrance hall of the temple, and much solider ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hook", "response": "The metal hook is meant to be a crude replacement for a hand. It is deeply corroded from the stomach acids of the maze beast, but it survived longer than the rest of the pirate did.\n\nSomething about the ledge catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the marks", "response": "It appears as if people - or animals - cling to the edge of the ledge at this point.\n\nSomething about the ledge catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ledge", "response": "The ledge of stone juts out a little, a few feet maybe, above the pit. To the south of the ledge is the entrance hall of the temple. On one side of the ledge there are faint scrape marks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the marks", "response": "I didn't understand that sentence.\n\nIt appears as if people - or animals - cling to the edge of the ledge at this point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb down", "response": "You must name something more substantial.\n\nSomething about the ledge catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the marks", "response": "It appears as if people - or animals - cling to the edge of the ledge at this point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cling to the ledge", "response": "You peek down, towards the bottom-less area of the pit. Probably not a good idea?\n\nSomething about the ledge catches your eye.\n\nYou scoot to the edge of the ledge, swing your legs over it, and start clinging on for dear life. Looking around, you spy some handholds that were previously invisible from your elevated point of view.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You decide to go down, anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the handholds", "response": "Clinging from the ledge, you can just make out a series of handholds that you could climb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb", "response": "What do you want to climb?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Handholds", "response": "You climb over to the path of handholds. Clinging precariously to the sheer wall of the pit, you wonder what life decisions could have possibly brought you to this. You can climb up the handholds now, to the top, you figure.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The Bottomless Pit - Well, *A* Bottomless Pit\nWind whistles through this room, threatening to knock you off balance, and off your super-precarious handholds. And that would be bad. Very bad. Because the pit you are skirting appears to be bottomless. And not one of those \"bottomless\" pits where it's all build-up and hyperbole, and the bottom is QUITE visible a mere half-mile down, thank you very much. No, this is a PROPER bottomless pit. You fancy you can hear something, very faint, very soft, in the wind whistling out of the pit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb down handholds", "response": "You decide to go down, anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "You begin to climb up the handholds, and after a long, arduous ascent, you arrive at the top...\n\nThe Top of a Bottomless Pit (Not a Topless Pit, Obviously)\nFinally standing at the top of the pit, you can see, impressively far below you, the ledge you started from. A path of marked handholds leads down into the pit, and nothing leads up - you're at the top. You're on a small thrust of wood that extends out over the pit. There are two exits, a metal door to the south and a dark, grimy arch to the southeast. Both doors are currently blocked, however, by the extended wings of a hideous gargoyle.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 11 - \"Cliffhanger!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wood", "response": "The wooden thrust is a platform that extends out over the center of the bottomless pit. Marks in the wood are gouged out, from the southern door to the tip of the thrust - where they end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You're carrying a spool of twine, a metal pirate hook, a greasy bone, the corpse of a snake, a whip and a gun. You are wearing the metal gauntlet, the battered fedora and an old leather jacket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip gargoyle", "response": "The gargoyle grabs the whip, and pushes you away. \"DON'T DO THAT AGAIN,\" it says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the snake to the gargoyle", "response": "The gargoyle regards the corpse of a snake with a jaundiced eye. \"AND WHAT, PRAY TELL, WOULD I DO WITH THAT?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the gargoyle", "response": "The gargoyle seems to regard you with its stone eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "The gargoyle smiles, the stone somehow bending without cracking. \"HELLO. WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY MY LOGIC GAME? I AM AFRAID I MUST PUSH THE GAME UPON YOU.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "The gargoyle frowns, making the sound of sandpaper rubbing across granite. \"TOO BAD. IT'S FUN! BUT I WON'T PUSH YOU ON IT.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the gargoyle", "response": "\"WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY THE LOGIC GAME NOW?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "The gargoyle's grin grows wider. You spy the remains of a rat's nest in his mouth. \"IN THE MORNING I WALK ON FOUR LEGS. I GET DAMpER AS I DRY, YET GOLDEN TREASuRE INsIDE IS hID, BUT IF YOU EAT it, YOU'LL DIE.\"\n\nother.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You talk to the gargoyle", "response": "\"DO YOU HAVE AN ANSWER YET?\"\n\nother.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "6", "response": "\"WRONG!\" The gargoyle gloats, as his wings spring forward and slice you in half.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"WRONG!\" The gargoyle gloats, as his wings spring forward and slice you in half.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gouges", "response": "The gouges appear to be fingernail marks - from where unwilling sacrifices were dragged, screaming, to be thrown into the abyss. Or maybe someone was moving furniture without moving pads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Man, someone needs to clean in here! Look at all of this dirt! Just look at it! Everything is coated in a layer of dirt, but you can make out a jagged array of sticks surrounding an altar in the middle of the chamber. On top of the altar rests a stone sarcophagus. Around the walls are strange metal discs, with holes in the middle of them, which shine cleanly amidst all the dirt. To the north and east there are metal doors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dirt", "response": "Strange that this room in the temple is the first you find dirty - all the others have been clean, as if untouched by the passage of time, but this room is positively covered in grime.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sticks", "response": "The wooden sticks are almost your height, sharpened to a point at one end and the other stuck into the floor surrounding the altar, like funeral lilies.\n\nA thin fluid begins to leak from the metal discs, and the smell of the room markedly increases.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fluid", "response": "You touch the fluid, then lick your fingers. Just as you thought, from the smell. Gasoline.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine altar", "response": "The altar occupies the middle of the chamber, and is plain, unadorned stone - or you assume it is, underneath the layer of dirt. Sharp sticks surround it, and on top of it rests a sarcophagus, with pride of place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sarcophagus", "response": "The sarcophagus lies on top of the altar, closed. On top of the lid is engraved a skeleton, arms crossed, as if shielding itself.\n\nThe fluid coming from the discs increases in rate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "With a grunt, you shove the heavy stone lid off the sarcophagus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "You find nothing of interest. Like usual. But adventurers are eternally optimistic!\n\nYou begin to get a bit light-headed from the fumes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stick", "response": "You attempt to rip one of the sticks from the floor, but manage to break most of them off at the root. Finally you wrestle one out, whole, and leave the rest on the ground where they fell.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 13 - \"Breakin' stuff to look tough!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the discs", "response": "The strange metal discs have a small hole in the middle of each one, surrounded by burnished metal.\n\nThere is a click, as if two dry bones struck one another, from the doors. The sound of bones hitting each other, or doorways locking, perhaps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stick in the hole", "response": "(a sharpened length of wood in the holes)\nThose can't contain things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the doors", "response": "Metal doors. Extremely inpenetrable, locked, metal doors.\n\nOkay. Time to assess the situation. Room locked. Certain doom coming. Seems familiar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the sarcophagus", "response": "You clamber into the sarcophagus. Fortunately, it was body-sized. What a coincidence!\n\nCongratulationment!® number 14 - \"Sarcophagus - literally translated, it means 'flesh-eating'. Sweet dreams!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close it", "response": "You try to lift the stone lid off the ground, but without success.\n\nThe room is quite full of gas by now, both the liquid and vaporous kind. Good thing you're (relatively) sheltered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell gas", "response": "You take a deep whiff, then cough, wishing you hadn't. A deep, abiding smell of charcoal and gasoline hangs in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You're carrying a sharpened length of wood, a spool of twine, a metal pirate hook, a greasy bone, the corpse of a snake, a whip and a gun. You are wearing the metal gauntlet, the battered fedora and an old leather jacket.\n\nThere is a clicking sound, as if a lighter was being struck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThere is a loud \"WHOOSH\" as the gas alights in burning jets, scouring the room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "An Extremely Sooty Chamber (in the sarcophagus)\nA solid wall of flames rushes by your hiding place. Better hope it stops soon - oxygen is beginning to get a little tight in here.\n\nFlames continue to jet by, unabated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes. You begin to grow antsy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes. You fidget.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes. You nervously tap your foot. You're a man of action, not waiting!\n\nThe heat is searing, but the flames appear to be dying down a little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the snake on the stick", "response": "You slowly shove the sharpened stick through the snake, creating a certain style of meat lollipop.\n\nThe flames finally gutter out. It is now, you judge, in you professional adventurer's opinion, safe to emerge.\n\nThere is a click, and the doors to the room unlock, as the room rapidly cools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put snake on the stick", "response": "You slowly shove the sharpened stick through the snake, creating a certain style of meat lollipop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cook the snake", "response": "You poke the spitted snake out into the flames for a few seconds, then withdraw it back into the safety of the sarcophagus. Now you're sharing a small space with a smoking hunk of poisonous meat. Congratulations?\n\nCongratulationment!® number 15 - \"It tastes like chicken?\"\n\nThe heat is searing, but the flames appear to be dying down a little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the snake", "response": "While it does appeal to you, as a certain kind of revenge, you decide ingesting MORE poison would probably be a bad idea.\n\nThe flames finally gutter out. It is now, you judge, in you professional adventurer's opinion, safe to emerge.\n\nThere is a click, and the doors to the room unlock, as the room rapidly cools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get out", "response": "You get out of the sarcophagus.\n\nEverything is coated in a layer of soot - and for good reason! But you can make out a pile of sticks surrounding a stone sarcophagus, raised on an altar in the middle of the chamber. Around the walls there are bright nozzles, whose purpose is now obvious. To the north and east there are metal doors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bats", "response": "The bats cluster on the ceiling... maybe cluster is the term?... crawling over one another, packed more than cheek to jowl, but also claw to face. They look... hungry. Hungry for meat. Your meat. Better not attract their attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the snake to the bats", "response": "Your ill-fated action draws the attention of the bats. The bats notice that you're made of meat. Delicious meat? They decide to find out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the snake", "response": "You surreptitiously saunter to the snake on a stick and sneakily snag it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the snake", "response": "You toss the snake onto the ground. At first, nothing happens. Then the bats notice the snake. First one flutters down, then, two, then nearly all of the bats are converging in a heap, fighting over the meal.\nThe aroma of the burnt snake permeates the room, and soon every last one of the bats joins the pile. One of the last bats to move reveals a shining golden treasure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the treasure", "response": "A shining crescent of pure gold. This near-legendary representation of the common banana fruit has provoked much discussion amongst adventurers. Is it a prize to be sought, or does it bear a terrible curse?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the banana", "response": "You quickly snag the treasure, while the bats are preoccupied. Congratulationment!® number 16 - \"You collected a valuable(?) treasure\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rope", "response": "(a spool of twine)\nThe spool of twine has quite a lot of twine in it. Twine is super useful. It can be... tied to stuff? Or... wrapped around packages? Everybody LOVES twine.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "An incredible ... squadron? troupe?... of bats is converged on the delicious, fragant body of a snake, and are rapidly consuming it. A window has a view of the swamp outside, and there are doorways to the west and northwest. A rope dangles from a hole in the ceiling.\n\nYou can see a heap of bats fighting over a snake on a stick here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hole", "response": "The hole, through which the rope dangles, leads to the next level of the temple. And, it must be said, it doesn't appear that there are any carnivorous bats there. So it has that going for it.\n\nThe bats have finished eating, and quickly return to their previous roosts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The view out the window reveals mile after mile of the tops of the Everglade trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the rope", "response": "You try to ascend the rope, and make it about halfway, quickly hurrying hand over hand. Until one hand comes down on a bat. And then a bat comes down on your hand. And then many bats descend upon all parts of your body. And your body descends (rapidly) to the floor. And then the squeaking, nipping, feeding frenzy starts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "Your ill-fated action draws the attention of the bats. The bats notice that you're made of meat. Delicious meat? They decide to find out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the snake", "response": "You toss the snake onto the ground. At first, nothing happens. Then the bats notice the snake. First one flutters down, then, two, then nearly all of the bats are converging in a heap, fighting over the meal.\nThe aroma of the burnt snake permeates the room, and soon every last one of the bats joins the pile. One of the last bats to move reveals a shining golden treasure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the treasure", "response": "You quickly snag the treasure, while the bats are preoccupied. Congratulationment!® number 16 - \"You collected a valuable(?) treasure\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "With the bats distracted (for now), you scurry out the northwestern archway.\n\nThe Top of a Bottomless Pit (Not a Topless Pit, Obviously)\nA path of marked handholds leads down into the pit, and nothing leads up - you're at the top. You're on a small thrust of wood that extends out over the pit. There are two exits, a metal door to the south and a dark, grimy arch to the southeast. The doors stand, free of obstruction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the rope", "response": "Congratulationment!® number 17 - \"Rope day in gym class would be easier, if you were running from bats.\"\n\nA Completely Normal (If Paleolithic Evil Temples Can Be Normal)\nRoom\nWell, that's a nice change from bottomless pits, gargoyles, bats, grotesque statues, et cetera. This rooms appears to be entirely normal. The floor is normal. The walls are normal. There is a window out of the temple, with a view of the jungle. A rope dangles down to Bat Country, from which emanates excited squeaking. That's not normal. But it really should count against the normalcy of the room below, not this room. To the west is a doorway, that appears to lead to an entirely normal bathroom.\n\nSomeone has left a large collection of impressive steel pipes here. Complete with flashing lights, dials and switches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pipes", "response": "You have no idea what this machinery is, or what it does. But you know one thing - when confronted with strange machinery, of unknown provenance in a strange temple, you ABSOLUTELY do not touch it. So why do you find your finger sneaking out to turn a dial, or perhaps flip a switch, before you regain your senses and snatch your hand back?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Alright, this is creepy. Both because this bathroom is unmistakably evil, now that you see it up close, and because there is a bathroom in an ancient evil temple. The most notable feature of the bathroom is the giant bathtub alongside the far wall. Other than that, there are the standard (evil) bathroom fixtures. Mirror (inscribed with inscrutable sigils), sink (filled to the brim with blood) and toilet (reeking of death and bad choices). To the east is the completely normal room, and set in the ceiling is a door marked with a strange heiroglyph.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the mirror", "response": "You find nothing of interest. Like usual. But adventurers are eternally optimistic!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mirror", "response": "You see yourself, but not as you normally see yourself. As others see you. What you normally see as a dashing demeanor comes across as pompous. That cheeky grin is a sneer. And your hair looks incredibly strange parted on the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sink", "response": "The sink is full of blood. That's probably the most pertinent detail. Other than that, it's a stone basin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toilet", "response": "The toilet is creepy, as indoor plumbing is a relatively recent innovation. And by relatively recent, we are definitely excluding ancient stone temples.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hieroglyph", "response": "The language of this hieroglyph has been dead for centuries, which is ironic. Because it means \"The Water of Life\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bathtub", "response": "The giant tub is alongside the far wall. It is about waist high on you, and very sturdy looking. The tub is full of water, making it impossibly heavy. But perhaps this is the famed Water of Life? Probably not - it's very murky. Through the murk, you can just make out a drain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the drain", "response": "It's what keeps the water in the tub. Or lets it out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drain bathtub", "response": "You pull the drain, and the water in the tub quickly rushes out, over the floor, quickly seeping into cracks. Hopefully *that* wasn't the Water of Life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tub", "response": "The giant tub is alongside the far wall. It is about waist high on you, and very sturdy looking. The tub is now drained, and can appears to be several thousand pounds lighter - perhaps light enough to move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the tub", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the tub", "response": "You heave and shove and manhandle the tub, and finally manage to get it right to the center of the room. Whereupon the trapdoor opens, spilling you into the room below, and leaving the tub teetering on the edge above you.\n\nYou fall nearly on top of the sarcophagus, and twist off in an clumsy gainer, landing on the heap of broken sticks, which break your fall.\n\nEverything is coated in a layer of soot - and for good reason! But you can make out a pile of sticks surrounding a stone sarcophagus, raised on an altar in the middle of the chamber. Around the walls there are bright nozzles, whose purpose is now obvious. Above the sarcophagus, a trapdoor swings, open. To the north and east there are metal doors.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 18 - \"Tub thumpin'!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You quickly scurry out the western door, slamming it behind you to avoid the bats.\n\nEverything is coated in a layer of soot - and for good reason! But you can make out a pile of sticks surrounding a stone sarcophagus, raised on an altar in the middle of the chamber. Around the walls there are bright nozzles, whose purpose is now obvious. Above the sarcophagus, a trapdoor swings, open. To the north and east there are metal doors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trapdoor", "response": "An open trapdoor swings above the sarcophagus, invitingly within reach - if you were to stand on the sarcophagus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the sarcophagus", "response": "You get into the sarcophagus.\n\nA thin fluid begins to leak from the metal discs, and the smell of the room markedly increases.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "Crawling on top of the sarcophagus, and thence to the trapdoor, you re-enter the floor above.\n\nThe most notable feature is the fact that the floor in the center of the room is missing. Well, it's not exactly missing. It's on a hinge, and has swung down into the room below. The second most notable feature of the room is the giant bathtub in the center of the room, right on the edge of the trap door. Other than that, there are the standard (evil) bathroom fixtures. Mirror (inscribed with inscrutable sigils), sink (filled to the brim with blood) and toilet (reeking of death and bad choices). To the east is the completely normal room, and set in the ceiling is a door marked with a strange heiroglyph.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hieroglyph", "response": "The language of this hieroglyph has been dead for centuries, which is ironic. Because it means \"The Water of Life\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the bathtub", "response": "It would be hard to bathe yourself in an empty tub. Unless you were a mime. Then it would be too easy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A Completely Normal (If Paleolithic Evil Temples Can Be Normal)\nRoom\nThis rooms appears to be entirely normal. The floor is normal. The walls are normal. There is a window out of the temple, with a view of the jungle. A rope dangles down to Bat Country, from which emanates excited squeaking. That's not normal. But it really should count against the normalcy of the room below, not this room. To the west is a doorway, that appears to lead to an entirely normal bathroom. Alright, a bathroom in a temple is also not normal. But again... should that count against THIS room?\n\nSomeone has left a large collection of impressive steel pipes here. Complete with flashing lights, dials and switches.\n\nYou find yourself absently fingering a dial on the machinery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn dial", "response": "You go to mess with the contraption, but then stop yourself. Who knows what could happen?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You flip the switch", "response": "You find yourself strangely drawn, compelled, even, to fiddle with the machinery. You quickly stay your hand before you can do anything. Strange compulsions in mysterious temples are never any good.\n\nThe machinery emits a strange, low hiss.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You're carrying a Golden Banana, a spool of twine, a metal pirate hook, a greasy bone, a whip and a gun. You are wearing the metal gauntlet, the battered fedora and an old leather jacket.\n\nYou find yourself absently fingering a dial on the machinery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip machinery", "response": "You can't help it. You start flipping switches and pressing buttons like a mad man. There is a building noise that starts as a rattle, strengthens to a shriek, then ends in a clamorous roar as the machinery jitters and shakes. Finally, the noises cease, and a small vessel is thrust at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the vessel", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "You don't know how it was done, but this beverage is the almost complete opposite of tea.\n\nYou get a creepy feeling. Probably for no reason.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink beverage", "response": "No thank you. You prefer tea.\n\nYou find yourself absently fingering a dial on the machinery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The most notable feature is the fact that the floor in the center of the room is missing. Well, it's not exactly missing. It's on a hinge, and has swung down into the room below. The second most notable feature of the room is the giant bathtub in the center of the room, right on the edge of the trap door. Other than that, there are the standard (evil) bathroom fixtures. Mirror (inscribed with inscrutable sigils), sink (filled to the brim with blood) and toilet (reeking of death and bad choices). To the east is the completely normal room, and set in the ceiling is a door marked with a strange heiroglyph.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mirror", "response": "You see yourself, but not as you normally see yourself. As others see you. What you normally see as a dashing demeanor comes across as pompous. That cheeky grin is a sneer. And your hair looks incredibly strange parted on the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the tea to the mirror", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sigils", "response": "You glance at the sigils. They are in some alien alphabet, full of jagged edges and lines that should intersect, but somehow don't. You find your tongue moving of its own accord as you scan the letters, and yank your gaze away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drain sink", "response": "No thank you. The stopper is probably underneath all that blood.\nIck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the tea at the hieroglyph", "response": "Futile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying a drink unlike tea, a Golden Banana, a spool of twine, a metal pirate hook, a greasy bone, a whip and a gun. You are wearing the metal gauntlet, the battered fedora and an old leather jacket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tub", "response": "The giant tub teeters on the edge of the trap door, but seems relatively sturdy, if you're careful about it. Standing on it should provide enough reach to get to the door in the ceiling. The tub is now drained, and can appears to be several thousand pounds lighter - perhaps light enough to move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open ceiling", "response": "How? There's nowhere to get a grip on the door.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door with the hook", "response": "(a metal pirate hook)\nThat doesn't seem to be something you can unlock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip door", "response": "You crack your whip at the door in the ceiling, slapping it fruitlessly against the blank wood. Perhaps if there was something for the whip to grip onto?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the hook at the door", "response": "(a metal pirate hook at the door in the ceiling)\nFutile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "The door set in the ceiling lies waiting for you. Surely you must be near the apex of the temple, and your destiny, by now. There appears to be no really good way to get a grip on the door and open it (though there is a small hole where it appears a doorknob used to be).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the hook in the hole", "response": "(a metal pirate hook in the door in the ceiling)\nYou climb atop the tub, being careful to not teeter it into the gaping trapdoor, and, standing on your tiptoes, you screw the hook into the soft wood of the ceiling door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the hook in the hole", "response": "(first taking the door in the ceiling)\n\nThat's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You can barely reach the hook, standing on your tiptoes on the edge of the tub. But reach it you do, and yank the door in the ceiling open. An ominous silence greets you from the room above. Funny. You expected Handel's Messiah.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 19 - \"Almost there... almost there!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "You climb on top of the tub, and carefully pull yourself up and through the door on the ceiling.\n\nThis is it. The culmination of your adventure. The culmination, indeed of the Temple. A beam of light spears through the air and spotlights a simple pedestal of pure white marble. Atop the pedestal there is a deep basin, and in the basin - this must be the Water of Life. An unearthly blue glow emanates from the water, bathing the rest of the room in rippling azure light. In the floor there is the door to the lower levels of the temple, but you can't think of going back - not with the end of your quest in sight.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 21 - \"King of the world, top of the heap!\"\n\nThere is a commotion in the room below this one - you peek down through the trapdoor. Bats! The bats have seemingly followed you up the temple, and are circling wildly below (perhaps they are distracted by the sink full of blood). But it is only a matter of time before they start flying into this room...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "Acting quickly, you slam the trapdoor closed and throw its bolt, locking it. Unfortunately, you were not quick enough - one of the bats slipped through. It brushes your face with a wingtip as you duck out of the way. With a blood curdling screech, the bat starts circling the ceiling of the room, giant wings flapping.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 22 - \"Were you raised in a barn?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You drink from the Water of Life, and feel it coursing through your veins, healing your injuries, curing your poison, righting what once went wrong. You feel like a million bucks. You feel like you want to drink more, or bathe in it!\n\nCongratulationment!® number 25 - \"Thirsty?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bathe in Water", "response": "You attempt to bathe in the Water of Life, but the bat swoops at your neck and tries to sever it your head from your shoulders. Hurriedly, you knock it off, and back away from the basin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip Bat", "response": "You crack your whip at the bat. Great, that just drew its attention.\n\nThe bat seems to have regained its sense of purpose, and begins circling above your head ominously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You're carrying a drink unlike tea, a Golden Banana, a spool of twine, a greasy bone, a whip and a gun. You are wearing the metal gauntlet, the battered fedora and an old leather jacket.\n\nThe bat flaps overhead, waiting for its opportunity to strike.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jacket", "response": "The coat has served you well. Perhaps that's why you wear it, even in the sweltering jungle heat. It's zipped open, which makes more sense in Florida, at least.\n\nIn an old leather jacket is a bundle of maps.\n\nScree, scree, scree, flap, flap, flap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the gun at the Bat", "response": "You lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.\n\nThe bat makes a feint at your jugular.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the Bat with the gun", "response": "It would be nice. But the gun is completely empty of bullets.\n\nThe bat flaps overhead, waiting for its opportunity to strike.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the bone", "response": "Dropped.\n\nThe bat screeches, nearly shattering your eardrums.\n\nThe bat swoops in at you, and takes a nip out of your neck. You think you'll be okay... until the blood from your carotid starts fountaining out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Bat", "response": "This bat somehow seems both bigger and more malevolent than the other bats. Which is peculiar, because the bats were already large and malevolent as it was.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Banana at the Bat", "response": "You lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the bone in Water", "response": "That can't contain things.\n\nThe bat seems to have regained its sense of purpose, and begins circling above your head ominously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "*Poof!*\n\nYou find yourself in a wondrous cave. At least you assume it's wondrous. It's dark, and you have no light source. You may be eaten by a grue.\n\n*Poof!* ...that wore off quickly.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 28 - \"Text Adventure Veteran.\"\n\nThe bat swoops towards you, but you duck out of the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Bat", "response": "This bat somehow seems both bigger and more malevolent than the other bats. Which is peculiar, because the bats were already large and malevolent as it was.\n\nThe bat makes a feint at your jugular.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fedora", "response": "Yeah, you know exactly what this hat looks like. After all, it is YOUR hat, right?\n\nThe bat flaps overhead, waiting for its opportunity to strike.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the Bat", "response": "I don't suppose an enraged giant bat would care for that.\n\nThe bat swoops towards you, but you duck out of the way.\n\nThe bat swoops in at you, and takes a nip out of your neck. You think you'll be okay... until the blood from your carotid starts fountaining out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the tea at the Bat", "response": "You lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.\n\nThe bat swoops towards you, but you duck out of the way.\n\nThe bat swoops in at you, and takes a nip out of your neck. You think you'll be okay... until the blood from your carotid starts fountaining out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Foolishly, ignoring your better instincts, you open the trapdoor. Almost immediately after throwing open the bolt, the door flies up under the pressure of the bat bodies slamming against it, knocking you backwards, into the wall. Your breath is knocked from you, and you are thus at a disadvantage when the bats descend upon you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Punch bat", "response": "You flail at the bat, ineffectively, with your fists. Rule one of boxing: don't try to box airborne opponents.\n\nThe bat divebombs at you, fangs bared, but jukes away at the last minute.\n\nThe bat swoops in at you, and takes a nip out of your neck. You think you'll be okay... until the blood from your carotid starts fountaining out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip Bat", "response": "You crack your whip at the bat. Great, that just drew its attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whip Water", "response": "You crack your whip at the water. That'll show it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine pedestal", "response": "The pedestal is made of pure white marble, and seems to have been molded- formed? birthed? - complete and whole. There is not a chisel mark upon it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take basin", "response": "That's hardly portable.\n\nThe bat seems to have regained its sense of purpose, and begins circling above your head ominously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine beam", "response": "The beam of light enters through a crystal block placed at the apex of the room - the apex of the apex, really. The crystal absorbs the rays of the sun, and concentrates them into an almost blinding shaft of light, which then pierces the air of the room, almost setting the dust motes ablaze, until it spotlights the marble pedestal, making the pure white stone seem to radiate, itself.\n\nThe bat screeches, nearly shattering your eardrums.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crystal", "response": "The block of crystal is the real apex of the temple, occuring as it does at the top of the room. It is here that the rays of the sun are focused into a beam of light, and that light directed down to the pedestal.\n\nThe bat screeches, nearly shattering your eardrums.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the beam", "response": "That's not something you can enter.\n\nScree, scree, scree, flap, flap, flap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in Water", "response": "You attempt to bathe in the Water of Life, but the bat swoops at your neck and tries to sever it your head from your shoulders. Hurriedly, you knock it off, and back away from the basin.\n\nThe bat's eyes glow with a pure red light. Is that possible?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in Water", "response": "drink unlike tea: That can't contain things.\nGolden Banana: That can't contain things.\na spool of twine: That can't contain things.\nwhip: That can't contain things.\ngun: You dunk the gun into the water, which is generally against the operating procedure for guns, but it can't hurt, right? And lo, the glow in the water flouresces about your gun, and it suddenly feels just a tiny bit heavier - as if it has de-aged back to the time when it had a single bullet in it.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 23 - \"Water pistol!\"\na greasy bone: That can't contain things.\n\nScree, scree, scree, flap, flap, flap.\n\nThe bat swoops in at you, and takes a nip out of your neck. You think you'll be okay... until the blood from your carotid starts fountaining out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "*Poof!*\n\nYou find yourself in a wondrous cave. At least you assume it's wondrous. It's dark, and you have no light source. You may be eaten by a grue.\n\n*Poof!* ...that wore off quickly.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 28 - \"Text Adventure Veteran.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the gun in Water", "response": "You dunk the gun into the water, which is generally against the operating procedure for guns, but it can't hurt, right? And lo, the glow in the water flouresces about your gun, and it suddenly feels just a tiny bit heavier - as if it has de-aged back to the time when it had a single bullet in it.\n\nCongratulationment!® number 23 - \"Water pistol!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot bat", "response": "(with the gun)\nYou take careful aim, and fire the gun straight into the bat's heart. With a screech, it plummets - directly into the basin filled with the Water of Life! You rush to the basin, and peer in - but the bat is gone. Did it de-age itself to death? Is that even POSSIBLE?\n\nCongratulationment!® number 24 - \"Violence was the answer to this one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bathe in Water", "response": "You splash handfuls of the water over yourself, then double handfuls, faster and faster, reaching deeper and deeper into the basin, until you feel yourself fall in, pulled under the water, the unearthly blue glow building around you...\nglow building around you...## A Bar, Three Days Ago, On the Outskirts of the Everglades\nThe bar extends the length of the room, and the ceiling fans and lone bartender are equally overworked by the rough and tumble crowd. Alligator ranchers, adventurers and native guides rub shoulders the entire length of the bar, shouting at the bartender, waving grubby fistfuls of money and pointing at the grimy bottles on display along the back shelf. To the east lies the exit of the bar, though the humid swamp air blowing in from that direction makes it not too tempting.\n\nA man with a snaggly-toothed smile is here, bargaining with you.\n\n\"My friend!\" says the man, \"Let me tell you, if you want to venture into the Everglades, you will need a canoe!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the canoe", "response": "You smile, and reply \"Sure I do, bub. And can you run me a deal on a couple of boxes of bullets?\"\n\nCongratulationment!® number 26 - \"I hope the 'AMUSING' section is good...\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Alien Visitation" ]

[ "adaptive hints", "aliens", "built-in hints", "IF Competition 1996", "IFComp Game", "TADS", "TADS 2", "test as premise", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 6, 3, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Useful information about the game is contained in the \"hint\" menu.\n\nComing over the crest of the thickly wooded hill, you see the\ndecrepit shack that has always been your home. Your long walks through the Appalachian hills usually help clear your mind. You had hoped that the throbbing, insistent pain behind your eyes would go away with this one. You still don't want to admit it, but this pain is exactly how it felt the last two times. You better get your camera. After all, this is why you bought it.\n\nYou are on the top of the hill just south of your house, standing ankle deep in autumn leaves. The path you are walking on leads to the south. Your trusty thinking stump is right beside the path here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You examine the stump", "response": "You have many fond memories of sitting on this stump in the dappled shade and contemplating life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are empty-handed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You push to your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The peeling paint reveals the low quality lumber used to build this house. You've noticed that the house groans and protests more every winter. In many ways, you're amazed it has survived this long. The screen door leans against the house, having pulled free of the rotting door frame several months ago. There is a huge patch of weeds to the northwest that used to be a garden. The back door is to the north, and the path back over the hill leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the weeds", "response": "It's too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Watch the skies!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "Useful information about the game is contained in the \"hint\" menu.\n\nComing over the crest of the thickly wooded hill, you see the\ndecrepit shack that has always been your home. Your long walks through the Appalachian hills usually help clear your mind. You had hoped that the throbbing, insistent pain behind your eyes would go away with this one. You still don't want to admit it, but this pain is exactly how it felt the last two times. You better get your camera. After all, this is why you bought it.\n\nYou are on the top of the hill just south of your house, standing ankle deep in autumn leaves. The path you are walking on leads to the south. Your trusty thinking stump is right beside the path here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You dread going past what's left of your garden in order to get to your well. The weeds stand tall in the cool fall air, mocking you.\n\nThe pain in your head gets much worse, whether from getting a closer look at you garden or from the impending 'visit', you aren't sure. It goes away when you return to the back door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the weeds", "response": "You and Maybel planted the garden together in the spring, before your headaches started. After the headaches and the visits started, you picked what you could and let the rest go to seed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Your house is to the north, and the path is to the south. There's no sense in plundering through the woods until it's absolutely necessary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "As you grab the doorknob, the pain in your head gets worse. You rub the bridge of your nose, hoping that will help. It doesn't. You don't have much time now, so you press into the house.\n\n\"Is your headache gone?\" Maybel turns from the sink to look at you. Soapy water drips from the ends of her fingers as she looks at you carefully, taking in your shaking hands, the wild look in your eyes. Her fingers clench. \"When you asked me to move in with you, we made some ground rules. I don't talk about your dad, and you don't act like him. No you-ef-ohs and no skits-o-frenia, right? I've been holdin' up my end. Where the hell is yours?\" She swears and turns back to the sink.\n\nYour tiny kitchen barely has room for you and Maybel, let alone\nyour small appliances. The living room is to the north, and the back door is south.\nMaybel is washing dishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "homey. The plywood floor is mostly covered by a large throw rug. The wood-burning stove casts a cheery glow on the sagging couch and the coffee table overflowing with books. The front door leads north, your bedroom is to the west, and the kitchen is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is the only bedroom in the house. Once you shared it with\nyour parents. Then you had it to yourself when your mom moved out and your dad went to the asylum. Now you share it with Maybel. Clothes and the old mattress that you use as a bed mostly cover the dirty plywood floor. There is one meticulously clean spot near the bed, reserved for the camera and the pictures. The living room is back east.\nYou see a Polaroid camera, a photo, and a set of grainy pictures\nhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the camera", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine photo", "response": "This is the one photo that you managed to take the last time this happened. You couldn't take pictures when \"it\" was overhead because of all of the wild, incomprehensible thoughts they sent screaming through your brain. They let go of your mind only when you were almost unconscious. The ship started moving off over the tree-tops. You managed to get the polaroid up to snap a picture of the receding light through the branches of the trees. It's not enough to convince anyone else, but it might be enough for you. Something to help you believe that you're not as crazy as your father-- if your father really is crazy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pictures", "response": "Every time you look at these pictures you think of your father giving the film to you. He was home just to pick up some clothes before the sheriff drove him out to the asylum. He pulled the undeveloped roll out from under the mattress and pressed it into your hand, saying, \"Believe. You're my son. They'll come for you too.\" That was ten years ago. The developed pictures are blurred and grainy, but unmistakably the same thing that has already visited you twice. Judging from the pain in your head, a third visit is on the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Maybel is washing dishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the camera to Maybel", "response": "\"Oh, go take yer pictures in the woods,\" Mabel spits the words at you, \"Maybe you can sell 'em to the Nah-shun-el En-choir-er!\" She snorts. \"Wouldn't that be funny. You makin' money off this. Ha!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Assuming you haven't lost your grip on reality, you are Isaiah Knott, a twenty-seven year old man from the Appalachian mountains. You are wearing your comfortable jeans, a thick flannel shirt, and hiking boots.\n\nYou have a hellishly bad headache that's threatening to get worse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the camera", "response": "This is your treasured camera, the thing that will (hopefully) prove your sanity-- at least to yourself. You had to save up for a month before you could buy it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "homey. The plywood floor is mostly covered by a large throw rug. The wood-burning stove casts a cheery glow on the sagging couch and the coffee table overflowing with books. The front door leads north, your bedroom is to the west, and the kitchen is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "Looking at the books reminds you of meeting Maybel at the library. When you first started dating her you were both reading every trashy thriller and spy novel you could get your hands on, often over the other's shoulder. Recently, though, you've started getting more and more books about UFO's and mental health. Your reading material has slowly diverged until now you have two completely separate piles of books, encamped on opposite ends of the coffee table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the books", "response": "You pick up one of the mental health books and open it. The letters are blurred, and trying to push your eyes into focus aggravates the pain behind your nose. The best thing for your mental health right now is to get you camera and get out to the clearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Your tiny kitchen barely has room for you and Maybel, let alone\nyour small appliances. The living room is to the north, and the back door is south.\nMaybel is washing dishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are on the top of the hill just south of your house, standing ankle deep in autumn leaves. The path you are walking on leads to the south. Your trusty thinking stump is right beside the path here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is the path that most of your walks follow. In general, your walks are more pleasant than this one is turning out to be. The path curves off to the southwest, but you know that if you don't head for the clearing to the southeast, the pain will start making you throw up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You plunge off of the beaten path through the underbrush. The pain\nin your head pushes you through a blur of brambles and branches. Your body presses on even after your will has given up, as if it were possible to outrun this spike of pain. Droplets of water spattering your face bring you around long enough to realize that you've just splashed through a wide, shallow stream. There isn't one within miles of your house.\n\nsprawled on a grassy clearing that you realize the pain has stopped: you've arrived. The \"ship\" is already here, hovering about 30 feet up and quietly humming. Amazingly, they aren't clouding your thoughts like they did the last two times. You roll onto your back, bring the polaroid up, and start photographing the ship between labored breaths. The mechanical whine of your Polaroid drowns out the gentle hum of the ship. Picture after picture comes spewing out of the camera's mouth.\n\nThe fatigue from running catches up with you, forcing your head\nback into the thick grass. Once your head is relaxed, there isn't much keeping your eyelids open. You find yourself relaxing into darkness. As your conciousness recedes, you start to feel things crawling into your hair, crawling in and you need to lift your head, lift your head up right now and push out of the darkness, get away from the things crawling in your hair, lift your head and\n\nwake up.\n\nYou blink your eyes, and see that you're in a hospital ward. Even after getting up, it takes you several moments to realize that this can't possibly be a hospital. There's no bed, no instruments-- no doors, for that matter. There is only blinding whiteness and sterility all around you.\n\nThe room is of uniform whiteness, and far too bright. The air\ntastes odd; perhaps it is the lack of any detectable odors that makes it strange.\n\nA deep breath brings in a faint hint of nervous sweat-- your own. At least you can smell something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell yourself", "response": "There is just the faintest hint of nervous sweat about you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You're already standing!\n\nA section of one wall turns to a thick white mist. An alien steps through the mist, which becomes seamless wall again. The alien raises its slender hand, palm toward you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit alien", "response": "You strike at the alien, but your blows are stopped by an invisible force. The alien shakes its head and steps through the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "The alien stands and blinks its large eyes for a few seconds. Finally you see its mouth curl into a tiny smile and its head bobs politely.\n\nThe alien gestures to its right, and a yellow square slides out of the wall and hovers by its hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the square", "response": "If ever there were a perfectly two dimensional object, this would be it. It looks like someone has found a way to apply yellow paint directly onto a square swatch of thin air.\n\nThe alien is repeatedly opening and closing its tiny mouth and patiently gesturing with its delicate arms. First it points to the yellow square, then it points to its own mouth, and repeats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat square", "response": "The yellow square doesn't appear appetizing.\n\nThe alien is repeatedly opening and closing its tiny mouth and patiently gesturing with its delicate arms. First it points to the yellow square, then it points to its own mouth, and repeats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say square", "response": "You should say what you want to say in double quotes, for example, SAY \"HELLO\".\n\nThe alien moves toward you and gently pushes your jaw up and down before retreating again and pointing at the square. It seems the alien wants you to say something. Something about the square, probably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the square", "response": "I suppose you can talk to it, but it can't hear you.\n\nThe alien is repeatedly opening and closing its tiny mouth and patiently gesturing with its delicate arms. First it points to the yellow square, then it points to its own mouth, and repeats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at shapes", "response": "Which shapes do you mean, the red cube on the left, the yellow sphere in the middle, or the blue pyramid on the right?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cube", "response": "A soft red light effuses from the floating cube.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The room is of uniform whiteness, and far too bright. The air\ntastes odd; perhaps it is the lack of any detectable odors that makes it strange.\n\nThere are three floating shapes and a large green button in the floor. You see a red cube on the left, a yellow sphere in the middle, and\na blue pyramid on the right here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the button", "response": "It is a sturdy green button set in the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "A green spot, a yellow spot and a black spot twirl into existence. They dance about your head for a moment, and then spin out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel cube", "response": "You tug on the cube, trying to pull it out of its appointed spot. It refuses to budge, although it seems like you could turn it or push it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn sphere", "response": "Which sphere do you mean, the red sphere on the left, or the yellow sphere in the middle?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Red", "response": "You grab the floating sphere and turn it. It seems to click into place, changing the color from red to yellow.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The room is of uniform whiteness, and far too bright. The air\ntastes odd; perhaps it is the lack of any detectable odors that makes it strange.\n\nThere are three floating shapes and a large green button in the floor. You see a yellow sphere on the left, a yellow sphere in the middle, and a blue pyramid on the right here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn left", "response": "You grab the floating sphere and turn it. It seems to click into place, changing the color from yellow to blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn left", "response": "You grab the floating sphere and turn it. It seems to click into place, changing the color from blue to red.\n\nYou grab the floating sphere and turn it. It seems to click into place, changing the color from red to yellow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn left", "response": "You grab the floating sphere and turn it. It seems to click into place, changing the color from blue to red.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "A green spot, a red spot, and a black spot twirl into existence. They dance about your head for a moment, and then spin out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shape", "response": "Which shape do you mean, the red sphere on the left, the yellow sphere in the middle, or the blue pyramid on the right?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn blue", "response": "You grab the floating pyramid and turn it. It seems to click into place, changing the color from blue to red.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You step through the door, which promptly disappears. It takes you a few seconds to adjust to the scene around you. Eventually, the message gets through to your brain that something is terribly, terribly wrong.\n\nYou are on the top of the hill just south of your house, surrounded\nby trees and spring-time air. The familiar path beneath your feet leads south, just like it always has. A thick fog in the distance obscures a normally beautiful view of the surrounding hilltops. There's something subtly wrong with the whole situation, but you can't quite put your finger on it-- something about the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trees", "response": "You stare at the trees for a long time before you realize what's wrong. Even though the surface of the trees looks rough, their edges are perfectly smooth. It's as though someone took a smooth cylinder and pasted a picture of rough bark on top of it.\n\nAs you get caught up in this discovery, you almost fail to notice the initials carved into one of the prominent trees near the path. A tree that you don't remember at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the initials", "response": "This tree stands precisely on the spot where your thinking stump should be. As you look at the tree, and the initials carved in it, you can almost feel a glimmer of recognition in the back of your mind, but you're still too befuddled by the loss of your stump. Worse yet, there's no good place to sit and think about this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the initials", "response": "The initials are the classic lovers pair, wrapped in a heart:\n\nP. K.\n+\nE. M.\n\nPeter Knott and Esther Minnow. Mom and Dad. The ten year old memory pushes its way to the front of your mind: Mom tearfully packing her few things, Dad alternately yelling at her and pleading with her. It wasn't until Aunt Betty picked her up and they drove out of sight that it really hit Dad. He took an axe out the back door and attacked the tree that had witnessed his proposal to her. It was a thick tree. Curses and saliva kept flying out of his mouth in an almost constant stream as he kept chopping. You couldn't bear to watch him and took a long walk through the woods, but it didn't help. The relentless chopping echoed off of the hilltop like rifle fire. It was a couple hours later that you heard the tree fall.\n\nAfter he went to the asylum, you sawed off all of the splinters and turned the stump into a seat. Now, amazingly, it's a tree once again-- initials and all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You stand still and carefully listen to the woods. No birds are singing, no leaves are rustling. The trees are still and silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The building to the north looks far too good to be your house. It sports new aluminum siding and shingles; the screen door is in place and freshly painted. Off to the northwest, the garden is an explosion of color. The path through the woods leads back south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The garden that you let go to weed is flourishing here. Tulips add color to the first greens of the vegetables pushing up through the ground. The well is here, surrounded by flowers. The front of the house is to the northeast and the back is to the southeast.\nYou see a broken hoe here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hoe", "response": "It is painfully obvious that the hoe is broken beyond repair. The break in the middle of the handle is completely smooth; it looks sawed through, not broken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hoe", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The screen door doesn't even squeak. Amazing.\n\nThe kitchen is just as small as you remember, but completely renovated, just like the outside of the house. The appliances and the linolium on the floor are new. There's a space-saving microwave oven installed above the range.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Your eyes try to take stock of the familiar-yet-not living room, but they are instead immediately drawn to the figure on the couch, who rises and walks toward you, hand extended. \"Isaiah! You're here!\nLet me have a look at you!\"\n\nYour brain reels. It's your father, looking exactly like he did before he went insane ten years ago.\n\n\"You've really grown up, huh? Having to take care of your mom these past couple months? Well, now that they've got you too, maybe this testing will go faster. They'll take us home soon. Have a seat.\" He resumes his place on the couch.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Dad", "response": "You try to make a little polite conversation, but with a ten-year gulf and who knows what else between you, awkward silences dominate your conversation. Soon you give up.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You listen carefully for the noise, and eventually determine that it's coming from your dad. You watch him attentively, and see that the noise happens when he blinks. It's kind of like the clicking of a camera shutter.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dad", "response": "Your father's face is a memory come true. He is almost precisely the man taken to the asylum ten years ago-- except his eyes have lost their spark. He looks complacent and lifeless.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hoe", "response": "It is painfully obvious that the hoe is broken beyond repair. The break in the middle of the handle is completely smooth; it looks sawed through, not broken.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "With all the other changes, it really shouldn't bother you that the front door works and leads down nice concrete steps to the yard and driveway. It gives you the willies anyway.\n\nThe lawn is freshly mowed, the north side of the house looks just\nas good as the south side, and off to the southwest, the garden is a prize winner.\nYou see a big, blue Pontiac here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Pontiac", "response": "The old, familiar Pontiac sits in the driveway. It looks to be in pretty good shape, considering you sold it to the scrap yard four years ago. The keys are in the ignition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The living room is tastefully decorated. Plush wall-to-wall\ncarpeting soothes your feet while your eyes marvel at the new sofa and coffee table. The wood-burning stove is the only real reminder of the house you live in. The front door to the north opens out on the driveway, the sparkly new kitchen is to the south, and the bedroom is west.\nYour dad is sitting on the couch.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill Dad with the hoe", "response": "You grapple with your father, who pushes who back with incredible strength. \"What the hell was that for?\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The lawn is freshly mowed, the north side of the house looks just\nas good as the south side, and off to the southwest, the garden is a prize winner.\nYou see a big, blue Pontiac here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the car", "response": "You'll have to get out of the big, blue Pontiac first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive", "response": "that seems like the best place to go. It doesn't take long for you to realize that you don't have a choice. The view of the road in front of you is unobstructed, but about fifty feet off the road on either side is a thick, opaque fog. You turn off on one of the side streets, thinking, \"It's only fog.\" When the car pushes into the fog, you literally cannot see anything beyond the car itself. You nudge the car forward at about five miles per hour, and eventually see a trace of road in front of you. With your eyes fixed on the line down the middle of the road, you slowly accelerate until the fog starts to lift. Looking up, you see that you're back on the road heading into town.\n\nResignedly, you follow the road into town. If you were expecting\nto be comforted by the sight of other people, you remain unconsoled. No one else is driving on the streets, no one is out walking. The few houses brave enough to stick out of the fog are all dark and silent. The marked path of road comes to a stop right in front of Pop's market. You park in the prime two-hour spot right in front of the store. There doesn't seem to be a lot of competition for it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Outside Pop's, in the big, blue Pontiac\nNow that you're at the end of the road, the fog has spread out just enough to give you a taste of town. What you can see is exactly like you remember it, perhaps a little cleaner, a bit newer. Pop's store stands before you to the south, and the library sits regally to the north, the two real landmarks of Springfield.\nYou see a big, blue Pontiac here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "Now that you're at the end of the road, the fog has spread out just enough to give you a taste of town. What you can see is exactly like you remember it, perhaps a little cleaner, a bit newer. Pop's store stands before you to the south, and the library sits regally to the north, the two real landmarks of Springfield.\nYou see a big, blue Pontiac here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter library", "response": "It's too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You head towards the library, not quite sure what you're looking for, but hopeful that you'll find something useful. You stride up the steps, pull the door open, and come up against a wall of fog, just beyond the doorway. Holding your arms out in front of you, you press into the fog, but you still end up coming back out of the library.\nYou retreat to Pop's stoop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The comforting familiarity of Pop's storefront vanishes when you enter. All of the aisles are barren and empty. The candy display visible from outside is conspicuously absent. The only reason you have to think that this is actually Pop's store is a young-looking Pop standing behind the counter.\n\nPop looks at you and grins. \"Howdy, Isaiah! Looks like you got on board okay.\" He takes in your slack-jawed expression for a moment.\n\"I 'spose you're wonderin' how old Pop got himself on board this ship when you probably saw him just a couple of days ago in town, lookin' a lot older. The answer is that I ain't Pop, just a robot that looks and acts a lot like him.\n\"I'm tellin' you this up front so you won't think I'm trying to\nhide stuff from you. We tried not telling your dad right away, but when he figured it out, boy was he sore! He still won't come into town.\n\"Anyhow, I'm here to help you out. I'll tell you everything I\nknow, but I warn you now that I don't know everything. If anything breaks, bring it to me and I'll try to fix it. 'Kay?\"\nPop is standing behind the counter.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the hoe to Pop", "response": "Pop takes the pieces of the broken hoe and looks them over. \"Broke again, eh? That's only the fourth time this month. I think our hosts are finally startin' to realize that they just can't make good tools with their fields. Lucky for you, they picked up an actual hoe when they got you. Only costs a crystal duck.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about Dad", "response": "\"To tell you the truth, our hosts are gettin' a bit worried about him. When he first looked like he was down in the dumps, they figured it was just the stress of the asylum and what-not. They figured out how to make him forget all about that, but he still doesn't seem up to his old self, you know? That's one of the big reasons they started talkin' to you. Maybe you can snap him out of it.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You carefully watch Pop to make sure. Yep, he clicks when he blinks.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about the aliens", "response": "\"A little curious about your 'hosts', eh? Well, it seems to me they're a pretty friendly bunch, but that they can't figure out how we think. I think all this abduction nonsense is designed to get us where they can figure us out. They've got more of a hive mind, if you know what I mean.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are empty-handed.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about the duck", "response": "\"Haven't seen the duck yet? Well, it's at the fork in the path behind your house. Of course you'll have to figure out how to get it on your own.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive", "response": "It's a relief to be driving out of town. There usually aren't a lot of people at your house, so at least you can pretend that things are normal when you don't see any.\n\nEventually you pull in the driveway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "The lawn is freshly mowed, the north side of the house looks just\nas good as the south side, and off to the southwest, the garden is a prize winner.\nYou see a big, blue Pontiac here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The living room is tastefully decorated. Plush wall-to-wall\ncarpeting soothes your feet while your eyes marvel at the new sofa and coffee table. The wood-burning stove is the only real reminder of the house you live in. The front door to the north opens out on the driveway, the sparkly new kitchen is to the south, and the bedroom is west.\nYour dad is sitting on the couch.\n\nClick.\n\nThe kitchen is just as small as you remember, but completely renovated, just like the outside of the house. The appliances and the linolium on the floor are new. There's a space-saving microwave oven installed above the range.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are on the top of the hill just south of your house, surrounded\nby trees and spring-time air. The familiar path beneath your feet leads south, just like it always has. A thick fog in the distance obscures a normally beautiful view of the surrounding hilltops. You are surrounded by artificial trees. One of them has initials carved into it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The path leads north and south here.\n\nThe wooded path curves to the southwest here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The wooded path curves to the southwest here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "This is the major hub of this path. It splits to the south and\nwest, and taking either fork will eventually get you back here from from the other direction. Right at the forking of the path is a huge, menacing contraption.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the contraption", "response": "The large metal contraption is fairly straightforward in design. It has a platform that comes up to your chest, supporting a hollow, transparent cylinder. It also has an axe, connected to a large, tightly wound spring arm, ready to sweep horizontally across the top of the cylinder. Presumably, the purpose of the axe is to discourage the theft of the beautiful crystalline duck, resting serenely in the cylinder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take duck", "response": "You reach into the cylinder, wondering how good of an idea this is. You lift the duck, and you simultaneously hear a mechanical chuff and feel your forearm explode in pain. You grab at the axe with your other hand, and pull it back far enough to let your arm escape with the duck. The bruise is already becoming visible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the arm", "response": "Which arm do you mean, the spring arm, or the bruise on your arm?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the duck", "response": "The duck is made from clear crystal that looks exactly like a rush of spring water, frozen in time. Its curves are unblemished, and its form is serene and beautiful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You start heading back up the path toward your house. As the trail curves around a large tree, you are startled to find an alien standing in the middle of the path, shaking its head.\n\nThere's a sharp prick in your neck, and you slap at the pain and spin around to see what it was. You are dismayed to find that the world continues spinning past you even though you are sure your body has stopped. You slump to the ground...\n\nand awaken in the woods near the contraption.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are empty-handed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the contraption", "response": "The large metal contraption is fairly straightforward in design. It has a platform that comes up to your chest, supporting a hollow, transparent cylinder. It also has an axe, connected to a large, tightly wound spring arm, ready to sweep horizontally across the top of the cylinder. Presumably, the purpose of the axe is to discourage the theft of the beautiful crystalline duck, resting serenely in the cylinder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spring", "response": "The torsional spring about the axis of this arm looks very strong and very strained. Practically anything could set it off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the duck", "response": "You reach into the cylinder, wondering how good of an idea this is. You lift the duck, and are knocked to the ground by explosive noise and pain.\n\nShortly before you go into shock, you realize that your arm is missing below the elbow. Shortly after, you stop caring.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "The wooded path curves to the southwest here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The kitchen is just as small as you remember, but completely renovated, just like the outside of the house. The appliances and the linolium on the floor are new. There's a space-saving microwave oven installed above the range.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The gravel road into town is long and boring. It would be a lot easier to drive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The garden that you let go to weed is flourishing here. Tulips add color to the first greens of the vegetables pushing up through the ground. The well is here, surrounded by flowers. The front of the house is to the northeast and the back is to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad about the duck", "response": "\"They had me solve that duck puzzle too. Huh. Guess they're seeing if we work the same way. After I got the duck, I wondered what would have happened if I had just grabbed the duck without...\" He looks at you, realizing that he's about to give too much away. \"...solving it first.\" He finishes lamely.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the microwave", "response": "The appliances aren't important.\n\nAll of the appliances look new and spotless. In fact, they look quite unused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You walk about twenty feet before coming to a wall of dense fog. You press into it, but come out right where you entered, even though you never felt yourself turn around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Assuming you haven't lost your grip on reality, you are Isaiah Knott, a twenty-seven year old man from the Appalachian mountains. You are wearing your comfortable jeans, a thick flannel shirt, and hiking boots.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bedroom has also learned of the wonders of carpeting, and your shoddy mattress has been replaced with a beautiful brass bed. In the south-west corner of the room is a giant metal cylinder with rounded ends. It stands well over eight feet tall, and comes close to brushing the ceiling. The only break in the seamless metal is a pad protruding out of its side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine pad", "response": "In many of the abduction stories that you read, there were cylinders like this one that contained other abductees. This one is certainly large enough.\n\nA keypad protrudes from the cylinder's side and has nine keys, each with a different alien symbol on it.\n\nSince you stand little chance of deciphering the nine different alien symbols, you decide to treat the three by three grid of buttons as a touch-tone phone and mentally number it that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Type 123456789", "response": "(on the keypad)\nYou start pressing buttons. The keypad buzzes sharply at you when you finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pad", "response": "Since you stand little chance of deciphering the nine different alien symbols, you decide to treat the three by three grid of buttons as a touch-tone phone and mentally number it that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad about the pad", "response": "\"Never heard of it. Sorry.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad about the cylinder", "response": "\"You noticed that too, huh? When I first got here, I was real suspicious about that thing, so I hung around the bedroom a lot. An alien came in and punched in a code, and a window opened up in it.\nThe code was 5222.\" He types on an imaginary keypad in front of him. \"I guess my watching made them suspicious. That night, when I tried to look through the window, they snuck up and hit me with one o' those hypos-- took me right out. I woke up in my bed the next morning. I went back and looked through the window again, but it was empty.\" He stops and thinks for a minute. \"I think that was when they took the wires out of my head, too.\" He reaches over and gives one of the wires on your head a playful tweak.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the head", "response": "You run your fingers back over your head, and are shocked to discover four wires (tubes? It's hard to tell from touching them) coming out of the top of your head and re-entering your skull at the base of your neck. What have they done to you?\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel the wires", "response": "Without a mirror, it's really difficult to examine them. Just from touch, all four wires are about a quarter-inch thick, and they seamlessly attach to your attach to your skull.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the wires", "response": "You firmly pull on one of the wires. It's like pulling on a large clump of your own hair. It might come free, but how much will it hurt?\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Type 5222", "response": "(on the keypad)\nYou start pressing buttons. When you finish with the sequence, a large section of the metal cylinder slowly becomes transparent. The keypad chimes when the process completes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cylinder", "response": "In many of the abduction stories that you read, there were cylinders like this one that contained other abductees. This one is certainly large enough.\n\nNow you have a chance to see what is inside the enigmatic cylinder. A large rectangle of the cylinder has become a dark window to the interior.\n\nA keypad protrudes from the cylinder's side and has nine keys, each with a different alien symbol on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "Without any light coming from within the cylinder, you are forced to press your face up against the window and cup your hands around your eyes. At first you can see nothing but a small ball of faintly glowing blue light. As your eyes adjust to the darkness within, you can tell that the faint glow is like a turbulent lightning storm; there are localized pockets of activity which occasionally leap across the length of the ball, lighting up new regions in a chaotic pattern.\n\nYou continue to watch, fascinated, until you realize that the blue glow is faintly illuminating what's beneath it: your face. Somehow, you are looking at your own body inside of the cylinder, except that your head is open and there is a glowing ball where your brain should be.\n\nTingles slide down your scalp, and the faintly glowing brain within the cylinder explodes with arcs of color and flashes of light. As the shock passes, the tingles on your scalp recede, and the glowing brain dims to its previous state.\n\nYour heart crawls into your throat as you wait for what you think might happen. Finally, you see your alternate self blink, and hear a faint 'tik' through the skin of the cylinder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Assuming you haven't lost your grip on reality, you are Isaiah Knott, a twenty-seven year old man from the Appalachian mountains. You are wearing your comfortable jeans, a thick flannel shirt, and hiking boots.\n\nThere are four wires protruding out of your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "You press against the window again, grotesquely fascinated with your doppleganger inside. The chaotic lightshow emanating from its open skull is fascinating and disconcerting. The faint, regular ticks float out to you as your other self blinks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the wire", "response": "You firmly pull on one of the wires. It's like pulling on a large clump of your own hair. It might come free, but how much will it hurt?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad about the wires", "response": "\"Aw, don't worry about those. They'll take 'em out after a couple days.\" He proffers the top of his slightly balding head for your inspection. \"See?\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad about yourself", "response": "\"I told ya' they'd come for you.\" His forehead creases a notch. \"I thought they'd give you more than a couple o' months, though.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad, to go west", "response": "\"I'm tellin' you, it's empty. Code's 5222, go look yourself.\"\n\nClick.\n\n\"I just don't feel like doin' much of anything.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The lawn is freshly mowed, the north side of the house looks just\nas good as the south side, and off to the southwest, the garden is a prize winner.\nYou see a big, blue Pontiac here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive", "response": "As you drive into town, you carefully scan the oppressive fog for any weakness. Occasionally you drive down one of the other side roads, but you always end up heading toward town. You roll to a stop in front of Pop's market.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "Now that you're at the end of the road, the fog has spread out just enough to give you a taste of town. What you can see is exactly like you remember it, perhaps a little cleaner, a bit newer. Pop's store stands before you to the south, and the library sits regally to the north, the two real landmarks of Springfield.\nYou see a big, blue Pontiac here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The comforting familiarity of Pop's storefront vanishes when you enter. All of the aisles are barren and empty. The candy display visible from outside is conspicuously absent. The only reason you have to think that this is actually Pop's store is a young-looking Pop standing behind the counter.\nPop is standing behind the counter.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about cylinder", "response": "\"That big cylinder in your room? It's just monitoring stuff. Don't worry about it.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about 5222", "response": "I don't know how to ask anything about the number 5222.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Pop about the cylinder", "response": "It doesn't look as though Pop is interested.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about the wires", "response": "\"Aw, don't worry about those. Once the aliens get all their stuff set up right, they'll take those out again.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about the axe", "response": "Pop scratches his chin. \"I'm afraid I wasn't told 'bout any axe. Maybe if you showed me.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about the contraption", "response": "\"Reckon I don't know too much about that.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the bruise to pop", "response": "\"Hoo! That's a doozy!\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the bruise to Dad", "response": "\"Huh! Helluva bruise, son.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine well", "response": "This well, like the wood-burning stove inside of the house, was one of the few things of quality you've always had. For as long as you can remember, it has always provided clear, sweet water. It's about two and a half feet in diameter and lined with white stones. A board is mortared into the top of it as an anchor for the rope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the board", "response": "This board is firmly attached to the top of the well. Its purpose is simply to stop the rope from falling in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rope", "response": "The rope is tied to the board at the top of the well, the rest dangles down into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rope", "response": "You haul the bucket up out of the darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bucket", "response": "The tall, narrow bucket is cool to the touch. It is full of water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are empty-handed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bucket", "response": "You untie it from the rope and carry it with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the water at Dad", "response": "You miss.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on Dad", "response": "Just as you are about to tip the bucket out onto onto your father, he catches your hand. \"Not on me! I'm real! You can pour water on anything else, though. Won't bother me a bit.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a bucket. The bucket seems to contain some water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water in the cylinde", "response": "The water fills the cylinder, covering the duck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the duck", "response": "You gently reach into the water and lift the crystalline duck out. Once you get the duck past the sweep of the axe, you realize that you had been holding your breath. You let it explode out of your mouth with a gust of relief. A fresh wave of tingles crawls across your scalp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have a bucket and a duck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Dad about the duck", "response": "\"They had me solve that duck puzzle too. Huh. Guess they're seeing if we work the same way. After I got the duck, I wondered what would have happened if I had just grabbed the duck without...\" He looks at you, realizing that he's about to give too much away. \"...solving it first.\" He finishes lamely.\n\nClick.\n\n\"They had me solve that duck puzzle too. Huh. Guess they're seeing if we work the same way. After I got the duck, I wondered what would have happened if I had just grabbed the duck without...\" He looks at you, realizing that he's about to give too much away. \"...solving it first.\" He finishes lamely.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show duck to pop", "response": "Pop lifts the crystal duck out of your hands and admires it. \"Well, didn't take you too long to get that, did it?\" He grins and stashes the duck behind the counter. \"I'll go get that new hoe.\" He wanders into the back room and emerges with a brand new hoe, which he gives to you.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig the garden", "response": "What do you want to dig in it with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig with the hoe", "response": "What do you want to dig in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hoe the vegetables", "response": "Although the garden itself doesn't need hoeing, you would like to hack out that unsightly clod of dirt. With a couple of well placed swings, you sever the roots clinging to the clod.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clod", "response": "It looks like an ordinary clod of dirt to me.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The garden that you let go to weed is flourishing here. Tulips add color to the first greens of the vegetables pushing up through the ground. The well is here, surrounded by flowers. The front of the house is to the northeast and the back is to the southeast.\nYou see a clod of dirt here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the clod at the cylinder", "response": "You miss.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have a bucket, a hoe, and a clod of dirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the bucket to the rope", "response": "You carefully tie the rope to the bucket, and drop the bucket into the well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rope", "response": "You haul the bucket up out of the darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bucket", "response": "You untie it from the rope and carry it with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the clod", "response": "The water flows smoothly off of the clod of dirt, leaving it as dry as if it had never been there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stove", "response": "This stove was the one thing of quality in your house. It's comforting to see that it hasn't changed.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the stove", "response": "There's nothing in it. It's too warm outside.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the stove", "response": "The stove isn't important.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the clod to Dad", "response": "\"You got that pulled up, huh? I was trying to pry it up when I snapped the hoe in two.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the hoe to Dad", "response": "\"You always bring garden implements inside with you?\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the bucket to Dad", "response": "\"Are you nuts, bringin' a full bucket of water inside, you'll ruin...\" He looks around. \"What am I saying? Everything's made out o' that electric field stuff. You couldn't ruin anything if you tried. Hell, you can't even make anything wet. Go for it. Pour away.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the floor", "response": "The water flows smoothly off of the ground, leaving it as dry as if it had never been there.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "This is the major hub of this path. It splits to the south and\nwest, and taking either fork will eventually get you back here from from the other direction. Right at the forking of the path is a huge, menacing contraption.\nThe cylinder seems to contain some water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water in the cylinder", "response": "The water spills over the top of the already full cylinder and onto the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cylinder", "response": "It is a hollow cylinder, made of a clear material that you don't recognize. It is about nine inches in diameter, a foot high, and its walls are about a half an inch thick. It is full of clear water, and there is an axe poised to sweep across the top of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You walk about twenty feet before coming to a wall of dense fog. You press into it, but come out right where you entered, even though you never felt yourself turn around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a hoe, a clod of dirt, and a bucket. The bucket seems to contain some water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The rest of the house is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the dirt to pop", "response": "\"You got some nice topsoil there.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the hoe to pop", "response": "\"Fine piece o' work, innit? That won't break on ya', I'll bet.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the bucket to pop", "response": "Pop grins and starts singing, \"There's a hole in the bucket, dear Eliza...\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You try to walk to the store next door, but the wall of fog covers the doorway. Groping for the handle, you pull the door open, step inside and proceed to walk through the fog, which eventually clears, leaving you on the sidewalk in front of Pop's.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour water on Pop", "response": "Just as you are about to tip the bucket ontp Pop, he catches your hand. \"Whoa there, Isaiah. Water 'n robots don't mix too good, if you know what I mean.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the library", "response": "You look across the street at your old familiar haunt, the library.\nIt is a welcome sight, a possible sanctuary from your madness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You head towards the library, not quite sure what you're looking for, but hopeful that you'll find something useful. You stride up the steps, pull the door open, and come up against a wall of fog, just beyond the doorway. Holding your arms out in front of you, you press into the fog, but you still end up coming back out of the library.\nYou retreat to Pop's stoop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about the library", "response": "Pop scratches his head. \"Ya know, I don't think your dad ever went into the library here on the ship. Our hosts prolly never fleshed out the inside of it.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about yourself", "response": "\"You wanna know why yer here?\" Pop shrugs. \"Mostly just 'cause our hosts want to learn more about people. That, and they wanted to see if you could cheer up yer old man. He hasn't been too cooperative recently.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Pop about Pop", "response": "\"Wonderin' how our hosts got me to act so much like Pop? Well, I reckon' not too many people in town knew that Pop went on some serious weekend benders. About once a month he'd close down for a weekend-- he'd always say he was goin' to buy more supplies-- and head on over to Cedarsburg, check into a flophouse and get roarin' drunk. If he thought he saw aliens pokin' and proddin' him when he was drunk, well, I reckon' he just kept his mouth shut about it. Kinda puts him one up on your dad, don't it?\n\nClick.\n\n\"Wonderin' how our hosts got me to act so much like Pop? Well, I reckon' not too many people in town knew that Pop went on some serious weekend benders. About once a month he'd close down for a weekend-- he'd always say he was goin' to buy more supplies-- and head on over to Cedarsburg, check into a flophouse and get roarin' drunk. If he thought he saw aliens pokin' and proddin' him when he was drunk, well, I reckon' he just kept his mouth shut about it. Kinda puts him one up on your dad, don't it?\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clod", "response": "Taken.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad about Dad", "response": "\"Aw, I'm fine, Isaiah. Let's just get all this testing over with so's we can get back home and prove we weren't nuts.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad about Pop", "response": "\"Oh, you mean that...\" You watch him frown as he gropes for a distasteful enough word. \"...thing that they've set up to make us feel all homey? Yeah, I've seen him. I was fooled by him for a while, but not any more. I'll take my own company over a robot's any day.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inv", "response": "I don't know the word \"abot\".\n\nI don't know the word \"inv\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Dad about Library", "response": "\"The Library? Yeah, I remember going to the library. Before they started visiting me. I always liked it there.\" He starts drifting away, lost in old memories. \"But then I started reading all the books about the government conspiracies to keep the aliens a secret. I read about all of the abductees, and saw their stories had to be true. I knew I wasn't nuts, but your mom decided that if I stopped reading the books, I'd stop hallucinating the ship that was visiting me.\" He shakes his head. \"I wonder where she thinks I've been for the past couple months? Inside my own mind?\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "\"The Library? Yeah, I remember going to the library. Before they started visiting me. I always liked it there.\" He starts drifting away, lost in old memories. \"But then I started reading all the books about the government conspiracies to keep the aliens a secret. I read about all of the abductees, and saw their stories had to be true. I knew I wasn't nuts, but your mom decided that if I stopped reading the books, I'd stop hallucinating the ship that was visiting me.\" He shakes his head. \"I wonder where she thinks I've been for the past couple months? Inside my own mind?\"\n\nClick.\n\nYou have a hoe, a bucket, and a clod of dirt. The bucket seems to contain some water.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "\"I just don't feel like doin' much of anything.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the clod in the cylinder", "response": "You drop the clod into water, and the water turns murky. The axe whistles past the cylinder and swings around the spring arm several times before coming to rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the axe", "response": "You examine the axe, carefully feeling the cool metal of its head, brushing its cutting edge with the ball of your thumb. It's real.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pry axe", "response": "(with the hoe)\nAfter working the blade of the hoe underneath the handle of the axe and levering it a couple of times, the axe comes free.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have a hoe and a bucket. The bucket seems to contain some water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "This is the major hub of this path. It splits to the south and\nwest, and taking either fork will eventually get you back here from from the other direction. Right at the forking of the path is a huge, menacing contraption.\nYou see an axe here. The cylinder seems to contain some water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show axe to Dad", "response": "Your dad raises his eyebrow. \"Do I need this?\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Dad with the axe", "response": "You grapple with your father, who pushes who back with incredible strength. \"What the hell was that for?\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You watch your father carefully, just to be sure. Yep, he clicks when he blinks.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have a hoe, a bucket, and an axe. The bucket seems to contain some water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the axe to Pop", "response": "\"And just what are you plannin' to do with that?\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Pop with axe", "response": "You grapple with Pop, who pushes you back with incredible strength.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the store", "response": "Every detail about Pop's store is perfect: the green canopy awning that got cranked in at night, the huge Jingle bell hanging on the inside of the door, even the finger smudges on the window right in front of the candy display. You can remember making some smudges of your own when you were in grade school and your dad brought you into town.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The interior of the library is filled with dense fog, but you can\njust barely make out the outline of the front desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "You focus your mind on that outline of the desk. What should it look like? You close your eyes and remember the light pine base, the speckled formica on top. You feel a tric kle of sensation down your scalp. You open your eyes and see that the fog has thinned out somewhat: the desk is now only partially obscured.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The interior of the library is filled with dense fog, but the front desk is almost visible through it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "You continue to look at the desk, and start thinking about little details: the thunk of the mechanical card puncher, printing the date on your library cards. The line of tickling down your head starts up again, and the fog starts blowing away from the desk. Soon you find yourself remembering the aisles of gold carpet that led to the shelves behind the front desk, and the small windows up by the vaulted ceiling. As the details begin pouring into your head, the trickle on your scalp becomes a torrent of tingling, and the fog seems to retreat at the speed of thought. Soon you are standing in the library you remember.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is the library that you remember, the desk, the carpeting, the walls, they all feel right to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe living room is tastefully decorated. Plush wall-to-wall\ncarpeting soothes your feet while your eyes marvel at the new sofa and coffee table. The wood-burning stove is the only real reminder of the house you live in. The front door to the north opens out on the driveway, the sparkly new kitchen is to the south, and the bedroom is west.\nYour dad is sitting on the couch.\n\nClick.\n\nThe kitchen is just as small as you remember, but completely renovated, just like the outside of the house. The appliances and the linolium on the floor are new. There's a space-saving microwave oven installed above the range.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive", "response": "You have to get in the car before you can drive it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "It's not until you step towards the desk that you realize what you had been subconsciously hoping to find here. Laying on the desk are the two newspaper articles that might convince your dad of what's happened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine newspaper", "response": "These are the two articles that you always come back to in the library's newspaper archives. One is yellowed and stiff, the other is only a few weeks old.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the newspaper", "response": "You must have read each of these articles hundreds of times, perhaps trying to glean some deeper meaning out of them, maybe just to make yourself numb to the implications. Every detail of these articles has been pressed into your being. You know every word before you read it. The first is from ten years ago:\n\nillegal handgun and opened fire yesterday,\nkilling one and critically injuring two\nothers before employees managed to wrestle\nhim to the ground.\n\nAccording to witnesses, he was screaming\n\"Wife-stealers!\" repeatedly. We talked to\nhis neighbors, and learned that Knott is\nconvinced that aliens have been abducting\nhim for the past several months, and the\nstress of his claims caused his wife to move\nout.\n\nAt the urgings of his lawyer, Knott\npleaded no contest at his hearing and has\nbeen committed to an institution for the\ncriminally insane.\n\nThe other is from just two weeks ago:\n\nrampage, the people of Springfield have not\nforgotten.\n\nhim early, a large crowd gathered around the\nMayor's office and staged a loud protest on\nhis lawn.\n\nKnott's release, but unless the county comes\nup with more money for the facility, they\nwill have to release twenty patients and lay\noff several staff members in order to remain\noperational.\n\nA spokesman for the complex said: \"We are\nonly thinking of releasing those individuals\nthat have responded completely to their\ntherapy and that we believe pose no threat\nto themselves or to others.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "Assuming you haven't lost your grip on reality, you are Isaiah Knott, a twenty-seven year old man from the Appalachian mountains. You are wearing your comfortable jeans, a thick flannel shirt, and hiking boots.\n\nThere are four wires protruding out of your head, and a large, painful bruise spreading across your arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the newspaper to pop", "response": "Pop takes the articles and briefly glances at them before handing them back. \"These are entirely outside of my program. Sorry.\"\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the newspaper to Dad", "response": "You watch your father's lips move as he scans down the articles. His brow furrows and he shakes his head several times as he reads. Finally, he looks up at you quizzically. \"I don't know where you got these, but they aren't real. First of all, I've only been here a couple of months, so this one from...\" He checks the date again, \"ten years from now is just a plain lie.\" He shakes his head. \"They're both lies! I've been here the whole time, I couldn't have killed anybody. Unless these aliens are body snatchers, and it was my evil twin that done it.\" His agitation fades as he puts the articles on the coffee table. \"Ain't no way those are real.\" When you look back to the coffee table to retrieve the articles, they're gone.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have a hoe, a bucket, and an axe. The bucket seems to contain some water.\n\nClick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "The old, familiar library desk is a welcome sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The kitchen is just as small as you remember, but completely renovated, just like the outside of the house. The appliances and the linolium on the floor are new. There's a space-saving microwave oven installed above the range.\n\nThe building to the north looks far too good to be your house. It sports new aluminum siding and shingles; the screen door is in place and freshly painted. Off to the northwest, the garden is an explosion of color. The path through the woods leads back south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop tree", "response": "You swing the axe and strike the initialed tree. There is a loud thunk and the impact jolts your arms. You pull the axe away and inspect the initialed tree. It appears undamaged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop window", "response": "You swing the axe and strike the window. There is a loud thunk and the impact jolts your arms. You pull the axe away and inspect the window. It appears undamaged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop cylinder", "response": "The metal of the cylinder appears to be much stronger than the blade of the axe. Aside from a faint scratch on the cylinder, all you have accomplished is severely dulling your axe blade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop dad", "response": "[TADS-1026: wrong number of arguments to user function \"<NO SYMBOL TABLE>.<NO SYMBOL TABLE>\"]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop bed", "response": "You swing the axe and strike the brass bed. There is a loud thunk and the impact jolts your arms. You pull the axe away and inspect the brass bed. It appears undamaged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop cylinder", "response": "(on the keypad)\nYou start pressing buttons. The keypad buzzes sharply at you when you finish.\n\nThe metal of the cylinder appears to be much stronger than the blade of the axe. Aside from a faint scratch on the cylinder, all you have accomplished is severely dulling your axe blade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Type 1026", "response": "(on the keypad)\nThere are only nine keys. (You can't use zero.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Dad about the cylinder", "response": "\"Okay, okay, I'll go look at it.\" He gets up and wanders into the bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You have a hoe, a bucket, and an axe. The bucket seems to contain some water.\n\nYou wait for some noise from the bedroom, some sign that your dad is still functioning. Eventually you hear him say, \"Bastards lied to me. They lied.\" There is a short pause, and then the harsh phrase \"Bastards'll pay.\" He storms into the living room, obviously on his way towards the back door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes...\nYour dad strides angrily off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The kitchen is just as small as you remember, but completely renovated, just like the outside of the house. The appliances and the linolium on the floor are new. There's a space-saving microwave oven installed above the range.\nYour dad strides angrily off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The building to the north looks far too good to be your house. It sports new aluminum siding and shingles; the screen door is in place and freshly painted. Off to the northwest, the garden is an explosion of color. The path through the woods leads back south.\nYour dad strides angrily off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are on the top of the hill just south of your house, surrounded\nby trees and spring-time air. The familiar path beneath your feet leads south, just like it always has. A thick fog in the distance obscures a normally beautiful view of the surrounding hilltops. You are surrounded by artificial trees. One of them has initials carved into it.\nYour dad is here.\n\nYour dad keeps running his hand over the tree with the initials carved in it, and muttering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the axe to Dad", "response": "Your father looks at you for a long moment before it registers what you are offering. He accepts the axe grimly. Your dad looks at the axe solemnly for a moment, and a tear streams down his cheek. \"Too many damn lies.\" are the only words he says before beginning to swing the axe at the tree with all of his might.\n\nThe sound of hollow thuds fills the air. You can't see any visible damage on the tree, but your father continues chopping with demented ferocity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nJust as you are about to give up hope that the tree can be damaged, you see sparks of electricity shooting off of it, and smoke starting to rise off of its branches. Your father continues striking it with the axe, and there is a loud crackle as the tree simply winks out of existence, revealing a tall, seamless metal tower inside the spot the tree had been. Your father, unfazed at this transformation from wood to metal, starts striking up sparks and horribly denting the side of the tower with his axe.\n\nAn alien hurries down the path. Its gaze is locked on your father, and it's holding a metal prod.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the alien", "response": "The alien is wielding a metal prod at your father.\n\nYou watch the alien as it approaches your father and touches the metal prod to the base of his skull. Your father stiffens and falls to the ground. The alien turns to you and holds your gaze as the ground beneath it becomes foggy and it and your father are swallowed into the hill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the alien with the hoe", "response": "As you rush the alien, you can feel that you are stepping over some internal boundary. The madness rises within you, but the only way out of it seems to be through it. You strike at the alien with the hoe, and experience what feels like an eternal moment of fear and rage. Your hand comes over your head in slow motion, yet with all of your strength behind it. You can hear your father's axe bite into the tower just as the hoe reaches the alien's face. You hear the metal of the tower yielding: a slow, tortured squeal of anguish.\n\nThe world around you begins to melt away-- the alien, your father, the hoe-- they all fade into nothing. It is only the screaming: the shrill, metallic squealing that accompanies you all the way into unconsciousness.\n\nYour eyes come into focus on a slate-gray sky. Your arms are firmly gripped by two guards on either side of you, who are firmly escorting you towards the gates of Juniper Hill asylum. The same asylum that your father was taken to.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You've only been to Juniper Hill once before, when you had to go\nsign the paperwork as your father's legal guardian-- your mom couldn't be found. It looks the same as it did then: serene, quiet, dead. Through the closed outer gates you can see the plush, well-tended lawn where the less violent inmates are allowed to go.\nYou see your bruise here.\nThe guards are gripping your arms.\n\nThrough the pain and confusion, your mind relives that instant of striking the alien over and over. Was there really an alien there to hit? If you were hallucinating, isn't it possible that what you saw as an alien was just an ordinary person? The possibilities of what you may have done start to sink in. When your dad went on his shooting spree in the restaurant ten years ago, was he seeing people, or alien faces conjured up by his own fevered imagination?\n\nMaybe Juniper Hill is where you belong-- you and your father.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYou close the last twenty feet to the gate. The guard on your right releases your arm to go talk to the gate-keeper. The other guard clamps down painfully on your left arm. The scene around you seems to blur; is it just your eyes tearing up from the pain? You feel an all-too-familiar tingling sensation along your scalp, and the world comes into focus again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe guard continues conferring with the gate-keeper for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nThe gate-keeper pushes a button, and the heavy, wrought-iron fence is hydraulically pushed open. The guard returns to your side and grabs your arm again. They escort you across the plush lawn into the freshly whitewashed building. They force you into a small room where they wrestle you into a straight-jacket, and then they take you to a classic padded cell, and put you inside. Any doubts you may have had about the reality of your situation are quickly dispelled as you rub your face against the rough canvas padding on your walls. The cell is real.\n\nReal enough, anyway.\n\nIn a total of 542 turns, you have achieved a score of 175 points out of a possible 200. You also received 15 bonus points.\n\nYou may restore a saved game, start over, quit, or undo the current command.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The living room is tastefully decorated. Plush wall-to-wall\ncarpeting soothes your feet while your eyes marvel at the new sofa and coffee table. The wood-burning stove is the only real reminder of the house you live in. The front door to the north opens out on the driveway, the sparkly new kitchen is to the south, and the bedroom is west.\nYour dad strides angrily off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You chop Dad with the axe", "response": "I don't know how to chop Dad.\n\nYour dad's murmuring gets louder, you can hear snatches of it. \"...need an axe ... where? ... Think!\" His mumbles trail off again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Dad with the axe", "response": "You grapple with your father, who pushes who back with incredible strength. \"What the hell was that for?\"\n\nYour dad keeps running his hand over the tree with the initials carved in it, and muttering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYour dad's murmuring gets louder, you can hear snatches of it. \"...need an axe ... where? ... Think!\" His mumbles trail off again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the axe to Dad", "response": "Your father looks at you for a long moment before it registers what you are offering. He accepts the axe grimly. Your dad looks at the axe solemnly for a moment, and a tear streams down his cheek. \"Too many damn lies.\" are the only words he says before beginning to swing the axe at the tree with all of his might.\n\nThe sound of hollow thuds fills the air. You can't see any visible damage on the tree, but your father continues chopping with demented ferocity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYou watch the alien as it approaches your father and touches the metal prod to the base of his skull. Your father stiffens and falls to the ground. The alien turns to you and holds your gaze as the ground beneath it becomes foggy and it and your father are swallowed into the hill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The living room is tastefully decorated. Plush wall-to-wall\ncarpeting soothes your feet while your eyes marvel at the new sofa and coffee table. The wood-burning stove is the only real reminder of the house you live in. The front door to the north opens out on the driveway, the sparkly new kitchen is to the south, and the bedroom is west.\n\nYou wander aimlessly for a while, but eventually the aliens give you other puzzles to work on. You do so listlessly, thinking back to the bizarre opportunity you had with your father, and wondering what you could have done differently. Eventually, you crawl into bed, tired and confused.\n\nWhen you awake the next morning, you feel a little odd. You sit up and rub your face, running your hands back over your head. Ah, that must be why you feel odd, they took the wires out last night. You yawn, stretch, and blink to clear your eyes.\n\nClick.\n\nIn a total of 543 turns, you have achieved a score of 160 points out of a possible 200. You also received 15 bonus points.\n\nYou may restore a saved game, start over, quit, or undo the current command.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Assuming you haven't lost your grip on reality, you are Isaiah Knott, a twenty-seven year old man from the Appalachian mountains. You are wearing your comfortable jeans, a thick flannel shirt, and hiking boots.\n\nThere are four wires protruding out of your head, and a large, painful bruise spreading across your arm. Your dad strides angrily off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel the wires", "response": "Without a mirror, it's really difficult to examine them. Just from touch, all four wires are about a quarter-inch thick, and they seamlessly attach to your attach to your skull.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You have a hoe and a bucket. The bucket seems to contain some water.\n\nJust as you are about to give up hope that the tree can be damaged, you see sparks of electricity shooting off of it, and smoke starting to rise off of its branches. Your father continues striking it with the axe, and there is a loud crackle as the tree simply winks out of existence, revealing a tall, seamless metal tower inside the spot the tree had been. Your father, unfazed at this transformation from wood to metal, starts striking up sparks and horribly denting the side of the tower with his axe.\n\nAn alien hurries down the path. Its gaze is locked on your father, and it's holding a metal prod.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit alien", "response": "It feels dangerous to go after the alien with nothing but your bare hands, but you go for it anyway. The element of surprise is on your side, at least: the alien is completely focused on your father. As you close the final few steps to the alien, it sees you out of the corner of its eye and reflexively jerks its arm. The metal prod grazes your temple and sends a jolt of electricity through your body, hurling you to the ground, momentarily as helpless as a newborn.\n\nYou watch the alien as it approaches your father and touches the metal prod to the base of his skull. Your father stiffens and falls to the ground. The alien turns to you and holds your gaze as the ground beneath it becomes foggy and it and your father are swallowed into the hill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel the wires", "response": "The guards have your arms firmly pinioned to your sides.\n\nThrough the pain and confusion, your mind relives that instant of striking the alien over and over. Was there really an alien there to hit? If you were hallucinating, isn't it possible that what you saw as an alien was just an ordinary person? The possibilities of what you may have done start to sink in. When your dad went on his shooting spree in the restaurant ten years ago, was he seeing people, or alien faces conjured up by his own fevered imagination?\n\nMaybe Juniper Hill is where you belong-- you and your father.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are empty-handed.\n\nYou close the last twenty feet to the gate. The guard on your right releases your arm to go talk to the gate-keeper. The other guard clamps down painfully on your left arm. The scene around you seems to blur; is it just your eyes tearing up from the pain? You feel an all-too-familiar tingling sensation along your scalp, and the world comes into focus again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the guard", "response": "You flail with your free arm at the one guard still holding you, but to no avail. Even one-handed, his grip is stronger than your arm, leaving his other hand free to rebuff your attacks and get some good jabs in of his own. The other guard glances over, unconcerned.\n\nThe guard continues conferring with the gate-keeper for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel the wires", "response": "Without a mirror, it's really difficult to examine them. Just from touch, all four wires are about a quarter-inch thick, and they seamlessly attach to your attach to your skull.\n\nThe gate-keeper pushes a button, and the heavy, wrought-iron fence is hydraulically pushed open. The guard returns to your side and grabs your arm again. They escort you across the plush lawn into the freshly whitewashed building. They force you into a small room where they wrestle you into a straight-jacket, and then they take you to a classic padded cell, and put you inside. Any doubts you may have had about the reality of your situation are quickly dispelled as you rub your face against the rough canvas padding on your walls. The cell is real.\n\nReal enough, anyway.\n\nIn a total of 544 turns, you have achieved a score of 175 points out of a possible 200. You also received 15 bonus points.\n\nYou may restore a saved game, start over, quit, or undo the current command.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You pull the wire", "response": "You sense that this is probably your only chance to do anything, and so you seize on the one possibility that offers you hope. You reach up with your free hand and pull on one of the wires with all of your strength. The pain is incredible. The guard realizes something is wrong when your knees give out from under you. You can hear them frantically shouting something, but the words are lost behind a fine red mist of pain. As the pain pushes you to the limits of your very being, you feel a moist ripping and the wire starts to pull free. Then, you thankfully lose consciousness.\n\nYou awaken on the ground in the clearing where you saw the ship. The morning is growing bright in the east. Stiff joints protest your weight as you stand up amongst the litter of pictures on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pictures", "response": "Gathering the pictures up off of the ground, you try not to look at them, being terrified of what they may show, yet insanely curious as to what's on them. Once you have them piled in your hands, you take a deep breath and try to still your nervous heart.\n\nClammy fingertips far too distant and removed to be yours reach out and start flipping through the pictures. All of them seem to be identical. All of them capture bare tree branches carefully silhouetted against the full moon and the clear, starry sky. Numb fingers slowly flip identical pictures past unseeing eyes.\n\nYour mind focuses on one part of that scene, and the more you think about it, the more clearly you see it-- the gentle face of the moon, not only looking down at you, but winking at you conspiratorially, as if it knows something that you don't.\n\nIn a total of 543 turns, you have achieved a score of 200 points out of a possible 200. You also received 15 bonus points.\n\nYou may restore a saved game, start over, quit, or undo the current command.\nPlease enter RESTORE, RESTART, QUIT, or UNDO: >", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Horror" ]

[ "cover art", "Inform 7", "parser", "party" ]

[ 0, 4, 4, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "\"Just take your coat off and come join us in the dining room, we're all about to start,\" Julia says as she already steps out of the vestibule.\n\nComing here tonight was definitely a terrible idea.\n\n\n\nThe vestibule, that most Freudian of rooms, is the liminal space between the front door and the interior of the house proper. This one, like the rest of the house, is wood-paneled and vaguely beaux-arts in a way that can only be described as \"tweedy.\"\n\nYou try not to catch yourself on the full-length mirror.\n\nYou can also see a coat hook here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You get tired of staring at yourself, and your eyes wander over to the full-length mirror instead: A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: It has inky\nblack pits for eyes, but it still seems to stare right at you. \"Breach the seals. Open the gate,\" it says, in a cracked voice that's not quite your own.\n\nThe head in the mirror belongs to a version of yourself from a previous iteration of the universe. One that seemingly ended really poorly, given that it's clearly possessed by some kind of world-rending evil. You're really in no state to attend a dinner party, but you'd already RSVP'd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na coat (being worn)\nyour phone", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the coat", "response": "(the coat)\nA grey peacoat; a bit grandiose, but appropriate to the autumn chill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the coat", "response": "(the coat)\nYou take off your coat and hang it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The vestibule, that most Freudian of rooms, is the liminal space between the front door and the interior of the house proper. This one, like the rest of the house, is wood-paneled and vaguely beaux-arts in a way that can only be described as \"tweedy.\"\n\nYou try not to catch yourself on the full-length mirror.\n\nYou can also see a coat hook (on which is a coat) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the rooms", "response": "[That is either not here, or you don't need to refer to it over\nthe course of this story.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You find your way to the dining room...\n\nA large bay window lets in no light through the thick drapes; a brass chandelier that Julia hasn't been able to get rid of clashes a bit with the modernist minimalism of the furniture.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nOn the table are a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some seafood vol-au-vents) and some glasses.\n\nJulia looks at you thoughtfully from her chair at the head of the table. \"Please,\" she says, \"take a seat.\"\n\nYou do so, and she adds: \"I see you didn't bring a date. That's a shame.\"\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Julia", "response": "Proudly grey-haired and staring at the word from behind wire-rim glasses. Julia teaches classics, or so you understand to be the case, though as far as you know she gives only seminars, not lectures, and spends most of her time on various obscure side projects.\n\n\"Please, dig in. I think you'll enjoy this one,\" Julia says. Francis pokes at the dish in front of him with a fork: \"What is it?\" \"Why don't you take a bite and tell me?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat", "response": "(the phone)\nYour eyes run across the silverware you're using:\nA full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Worms issue from the mouth! Black ichor!\nFalling and falling!\"\n\nThat's plainly inedible.\n\nFrancis uses his fork to collapse the construction on his plate. \"Is it... crab?\" Julia just smiles and takes a bite out of her own plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the food", "response": "You take a look at the seafood vol-au-vents before digging in:\n\nA vol-au-vent is a little bucket made out of puff pastry; this one is filled with some kind of pinkish material that you strongly suspect is some type of seafood, but you can't identify which. It's also topped with three thin, artistically-arranged chives.\n\nYou take a few bites out of the seafood vol-au-vents.\nThe filling consists of pale bits of vaguely crustacean flesh floating in vaguely sea-tasting sauce; it's either lobster in a crab sauce, or crab in a lobster sauce. It runs all over your plate the moment you crack the exterior of the puff pastry.\n\nFrancis turns to Raul: \"So how's the teaching going?\" \"Fine. How's the business going?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine raul", "response": "Balding, spindly, European (but you're not sure from where). Raul mostly takes credit for the work of his grad students and gives lectures on physics that consistently get accused of being \"boring\" on RateMyProfessor.\n\nFrancis replies: \"Really well, actually. We just applied for another patent last week.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine janet", "response": "Francis' long-term partner and the one other person in this dinner party without more than one post-graduate degree. You don't really know what her deal is.\n\n\"I love this,\" Janet pipes in. \"Is it lobster?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Francis", "response": "Francis quit academia to join some kind of biotech startup, and he looks exactly like someone who quit academia to join a biotech startup should look like: Smug in a fleece.\n\n\"Keep guessing,\" Julia continues. \"I think Raul had some really good lectures last term, didn't you?\" She pats her husband on the shoulder, for emphasis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Francis about the patent", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Scallops. It's gotta be scallops,\" Francis finally realizes. \"Got it in two,\" Julia replies. Raul seems almost relieved that's over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "You stare at the ceiling.\n\nJulia: \"What's that patent about again?\" Francis seems positively delighted to explain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the food", "response": "You finish eating the seafood vol-au-vents.\nIt's a bit large for an amuse-bouche, to be honest, but you did skip lunch today.\n\nFrancis launches into his explanation. It goes over your head but you think you catch the word \"telomers\". He's interrupted, of course, when Julia asks if everyone is ready for the soup. Everyone is about as excited as you can get for soup, which is to say not very much at all.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with the next course: A soup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the soup", "response": "A bright orange broth. Seasonal. Safe. Surprisingly clear, actually, almost like consomm��...\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the squash soup: \"You cannot save them! Nobody can be saved!\"\n\n\"This is good soup,\" Janet says delightedly. \"Is this yam?\" \"Squash,\" Julia replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You take a few bites out of the squash soup.\nThe taste is so subtle that you could be forgiven for thinking it doesn't actually taste of very much at all.\n\nYou're getting a bit anxious about that unread notification.\n\nFrancis tries to get back on track explaining what his company does, but nobody seems too interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "You turn to the empty space over your shoulder and scream: \"SHUT UP!\" [Your awkwardness has increased by five points.]\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like someone liked one of your tweets.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the spoon", "response": "You haven't got those.\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss julia", "response": "Julia might not like that.\n\nJulia: \"Really, it wasn't anything important. A side project at best.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot.\n\nYou can tell that some tension is hanging in the air, just for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "You turn to the empty space over your shoulder and scream: \"SHUT UP!\" [Your awkwardness has increased by five points.]\n\nJanet: \"Really, we should do this more often. It's been so hard to get together with friends lately.\"\n\nYou try to say something, but you're basically paralyzed by mortification at this point. Coming here was a terrible idea, and you realize that you're going to scurry home feeling like a damn fool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You get tired of staring at yourself, and your eyes wander over to the full-length mirror instead: A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: It has inky\nblack pits for eyes, but it still seems to stare right at you. \"Breach the seals. Open the gate,\" it says, in a cracked voice that's not quite your own.\n\nThe head in the mirror belongs to a version of yourself from a previous iteration of the universe. One that seemingly ended really poorly, given that it's clearly possessed by some kind of world-rending evil. You're really in no state to attend a dinner party, but you'd already RSVP'd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine coat hook", "response": "For hanging coats on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hang coat", "response": "What do you want to hang the coat on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hang the coat on the coat hook", "response": "(the coat on the coat hook)\nYou take off your coat and hang it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine coat", "response": "(the coat hook)\nYou get tired of staring at the coat hook, and your eyes wander over to the full-length mirror instead: A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Worms issue\nfrom the mouth! Black ichor! Falling and falling!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the coat", "response": "(the coat hook)\nOn the coat hook is a coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You find your way to the dining room...\n\nA large bay window lets in no light through the thick drapes; a brass chandelier that Julia hasn't been able to get rid of clashes a bit with the modernist minimalism of the furniture.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nOn the table are a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some seafood vol-au-vents) and some glasses.\n\nJulia looks at you thoughtfully from her chair at the head of the table. \"Please,\" she says, \"take a seat.\"\n\nYou do so, and she adds: \"I see you didn't bring a date. That's a shame.\"\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine glasses", "response": "Nice-looking stemless wine glasses.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the glasses: \"You cannot save them! Nobody can be saved!\"\n\n\"Please, dig in. I think you'll enjoy this one,\" Julia says. Francis pokes at the dish in front of him with a fork: \"What is it?\" \"Why don't you take a bite and tell me?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "(on the phone)\nThat's not something you can sit down on.\n\nFrancis uses his fork to collapse the construction on his plate. \"Is it... crab?\" Julia just smiles and takes a bite out of her own plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the glass", "response": "You're not in the practice of filching other people's possessions while you're a guest at their house.\n\nFrancis turns to Raul: \"So how's the teaching going?\" \"Fine. How's the business going?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chairs", "response": "L-shaped blocks of wood and foam covered in cream-white fabric, supported on four blocky legs of darkly stained wood.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nFrancis replies: \"Really well, actually. We just applied for another patent last week.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the chair", "response": "But you're already on the dining chairs.\n\n\"I love this,\" Janet pipes in. \"Is it lobster?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You could EXCUSE yourself to go to the bathroom.\n\n\"Keep guessing,\" Julia continues. \"I think Raul had some really good lectures last term, didn't you?\" She pats her husband on the shoulder, for emphasis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Excuse", "response": "You politely excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.\n\nThis is the secondary, downstairs bathroom, so there's just a sink and a toilet, and a small high window to let in some moonlight. The floor and wall tiles are a jadeish shade of green, and they thankfully aren't reflective enough for you to see yourself in them.\n\nYou can see a bathroom mirror (closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mirror", "response": "A nice-looking bathroom mirror cabinet.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the bathroom mirror, and also\nthe reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Knock down the\ndoors and listen as hell makes itself heard!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the reflection in the toilet", "response": "[That is either not here, or you don't need to refer to it over\nthe course of this story.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the mirror", "response": "You open the bathroom mirror, revealing a bag of cotton balls.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "It isn't something you can open.\n\nYou're getting a bit anxious about that unread notification.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bag", "response": "Fluffy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the cotton", "response": "(first taking the bag of cotton balls)\nYou haven't fallen so low as to steal whole bags of cotton balls from other people's bathrooms.\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nyour phone\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "This is the secondary, downstairs bathroom, so there's just a sink and a toilet, and a small high window to let in some moonlight. The floor and wall tiles are a jadeish shade of green, and they thankfully aren't reflective enough for you to see yourself in them.\n\nYou can see a bathroom mirror (in which is a bag of cotton balls) here.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the phone", "response": "You prefer to keep your phone close to where your heart used to be.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the bag", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You find your way to the dining room...\n\nA large bay window lets in no light through the thick drapes; a brass chandelier that Julia hasn't been able to get rid of clashes a bit with the modernist minimalism of the furniture.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nOn the table are a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some squash soup) and some glasses.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nRaul just coughs into his soup.\n\nYou become self-conscious of the fact that you're not eating.\n\nYou sit yourself down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You take a look at the squash soup before digging in:\nA bright orange broth. Seasonal. Safe. Surprisingly clear, actually, almost like consomm��...\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the squash soup: \"We all fall down! We all fall through!\"\n\nYou take a few bites out of the squash soup.\nThe taste is so subtle that you could be forgiven for thinking it doesn't actually taste of very much at all.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia politely asks if everyone is ready for the main course.\n\n\"Not much for soup tonight?\", Julia says pointedly at you. You stammer something in reply.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with the main course, some sort of sous-vide cooked fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the silverware", "response": "awkward)\n\nA full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Blood from the eyes! Rats! Rats!\"\n\nYou realize that blood is dripping from your left nostril.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"This looks... interesting,\" Francis says, lifting a strand of vegetable matter on the tip of his fork.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\n\nJulia stares at your face for a moment. \"Oh, dear; maybe you should go get that cleaned up.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Yithlak! Say his name! Call him into being! Yithlak! Yithlak!\"\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJanet pulls out her phone. \"I should Pinterest this, it looks gorgeous.\" But then she gets self-conscious, and puts her phone away.\n\n\"There's some cotton in the downstairs bathroom\", Julia adds.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou try to say something, but you're basically paralyzed by mortification at this point. Coming here was a terrible idea, and you realize that you're going to scurry home feeling like a damn fool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paratext", "response": "About the Author\nAmusing things to Try", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the phone in the coat", "response": "(the coat)\nYou prefer to keep your phone close to where your heart used to be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You should hang your coat on the hook before joining the others.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hang the coat on the coat hook", "response": "(the coat on the coat hook)\nYou can't help but look into the mirror as you take the coat off...\n\nA nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: It has inky\nblack pits for eyes, but it still seems to stare right at you. \"Breach the seals. Open the gate,\" it says, in a cracked voice that's not quite your own.\n\nThe head in the mirror belongs to a version of yourself from a previous iteration of the universe. One that seemingly ended really poorly, given that it's clearly possessed by some kind of world-rending evil. You're really in no state to attend a dinner party, but you'd already RSVP'd.\n\nYou take off your coat and hang it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the phone", "response": "It isn't something you can switch.\n\n\"Please, dig in. I think you'll enjoy this one,\" Julia says. Francis pokes at the dish in front of him with a fork: \"What is it?\" \"Why don't you take a bite and tell me?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the food", "response": "You take a look at the seafood vol-au-vents before digging in:\n\nA vol-au-vent is a little bucket made out of puff pastry; this one is filled with some kind of pinkish material that you strongly suspect is some type of seafood, but you can't identify which. It's also topped with three thin, artistically-arranged chives.\n\nYou take a few bites out of the seafood vol-au-vents.\nThe filling consists of pale bits of vaguely crustacean flesh floating in vaguely sea-tasting sauce; it's either lobster in a crab sauce, or crab in a lobster sauce. It runs all over your plate the moment you crack the exterior of the puff pastry.\n\nFrancis uses his fork to collapse the construction on his plate. \"Is it... crab?\" Julia just smiles and takes a bite out of her own plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the food", "response": "Your eyes run across the silverware you're using:\nA full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Worms issue from the mouth! Black ichor!\nFalling and falling!\"\n\nYou finish eating the seafood vol-au-vents.\nIt's a bit large for an amuse-bouche, to be honest, but you did skip lunch today.\n\nFrancis turns to Raul: \"So how's the teaching going?\" \"Fine. How's the business going?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink", "response": "(the phone)\nThere's nothing suitable to drink here.\n\nFrancis replies: \"Really well, actually. We just applied for another patent last week.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You try to just focus on the conversation.\n\n\"I love this,\" Janet pipes in. \"Is it lobster?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine janet", "response": "Francis' long-term partner and the one other person in this dinner party without more than one post-graduate degree. You don't really know what her deal is.\n\n\"Keep guessing,\" Julia continues. \"I think Raul had some really good lectures last term, didn't you?\" She pats her husband on the shoulder, for emphasis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine raul", "response": "Balding, spindly, European (but you're not sure from where). Raul mostly takes credit for the work of his grad students and gives lectures on physics that consistently get accused of being \"boring\" on RateMyProfessor.\n\n\"Scallops. It's gotta be scallops,\" Francis finally realizes. \"Got it in two,\" Julia replies. Raul seems almost relieved that's over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Francis", "response": "Francis quit academia to join some kind of biotech startup, and he looks exactly like someone who quit academia to join a biotech startup should look like: Smug in a fleece.\n\nJulia: \"What's that patent about again?\" Francis seems positively delighted to explain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Julia", "response": "Proudly grey-haired and staring at the word from behind wire-rim glasses. Julia teaches classics, or so you understand to be the case, though as far as you know she gives only seminars, not lectures, and spends most of her time on various obscure side projects.\n\nFrancis launches into his explanation. It goes over your head but you think you catch the word \"telomers\". He's interrupted, of course, when Julia asks if everyone is ready for the soup. Everyone is about as excited as you can get for soup, which is to say not very much at all.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with the next course: A soup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like you're supposed to have taken your medication already.\n\n\"This is good soup,\" Janet says delightedly. \"Is this yam?\" \"Squash,\" Julia replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You take a look at the squash soup before digging in:\nA bright orange broth. Seasonal. Safe. Surprisingly clear, actually, almost like consomm��...\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the squash soup: \"You cannot save them! Nobody can be saved!\"\n\nYou take a few bites out of the squash soup.\nThe taste is so subtle that you could be forgiven for thinking it doesn't actually taste of very much at all.\n\nFrancis tries to get back on track explaining what his company does, but nobody seems too interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You finish eating the squash soup.\nAfter a few more slurps, you come to the coclusion that it tastes \"brown\".\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk about the job", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You've already finished the squash soup.\n\nJulia: \"Really, it wasn't anything important. A side project at best.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You look down at the floor.\n\nYou can tell that some tension is hanging in the air, just for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the marbles", "response": "Glass in various bright colors and stone in interesting shades of grey and brown.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the marbles: \"Knock down the doors and listen as hell makes\nitself heard!\"\n\nJanet: \"Really, we should do this more often. It's been so hard to get together with friends lately.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"We all fall down! We all fall through!\"\n\nRaul just coughs into his soup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the marbles", "response": "Glass in various bright colors and stone in interesting shades of grey and brown.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the marbles: \"Blood from the eyes! Rats! Rats!\"\n\nYou realize that blood is dripping from your left nostril.\n\nJulia politely asks if everyone is ready for the main course.\n\nJulia stares at your face for a moment. \"Oh, dear; maybe you should go get that cleaned up.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with the main course, some sort of sous-vide cooked fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Excuse", "response": "You politely excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.\n\nThis is the secondary, downstairs bathroom, so there's just a sink and a toilet, and a small high window to let in some moonlight. The floor and wall tiles are a jadeish shade of green, and they thankfully aren't reflective enough for you to see yourself in them.\n\nYou can see a bathroom mirror (closed) here.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\nYou realize it's not on you; you must have put it down on the table somewhere.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the mirror", "response": "You can't help but look at the mirror before opening it: A nice-looking bathroom mirror cabinet.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the bathroom mirror, and also\nthe reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Yithlak! Say his name! Call him into being! Yithlak! Yithlak!\"\n\nYou open the bathroom mirror, revealing a bag of cotton balls.\n\nYou grab one of the cotton balls and shove some of it up your nostril to staunch the bleeding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return", "response": "You find your way to the dining room...\n\nA large bay window lets in no light through the thick drapes; a brass chandelier that Julia hasn't been able to get rid of clashes a bit with the modernist minimalism of the furniture.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nOn the table are your phone (presumably), a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some sous-vide fish) and some glasses.\n\nYou're getting a bit anxious about that unread notification.\n\n\"We get everything there from a CSA subscription,\" Raul says. \"Even the fish.\"\n\nRain starts up outside, audibly battering the roof of the house.\n\nYou sit yourself down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the phone", "response": "You're not sure of where your phone is. Maybe if you look around at the other stuff on the table.\n\nI hope you won't have too much trouble getting home in the rain.\", Julia says, noting the drops banging against the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "Made out of the unidentifiable dark-stained wood material as the chair legs, and devoid of ornamental detail.\n\nOn the table are your phone, a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some sous-vide fish) and some glasses.\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.\n\n\"Francis and I were really into sous-vide last year,\" Janet points out. \"But now we're more into hearth cooking. Ever since the thing with the clams.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the phone", "response": "You're not sure of where your phone is. Maybe if you look around at the other stuff on the table.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"Only on weekends, of course. During the week I'm on all Soylent now,\" Francis points out. \"I mean, excepting dinner parties.\" He adds a little laugh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search table", "response": "On the table are your phone, a sterling silver epergne, some silverware, some plates and some glasses.\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.\n\n\"Francis and I were really into sous-vide last year,\" Janet points out. \"But now we're more into hearth cooking. Ever since the thing with the clams.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the epergne", "response": "An epergne, you have recently learned, is a table centerpiece with suspended trays meant to hold food or flowers or what have you; this one, in a sort of postmodern-zen deco move, is actually loaded with a variety of glass marbles and interestingly-shaped river rocks. It is, regardless, an old traditional piece of polished silverware.\n\nOn the sterling silver epergne are some marbles.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the sterling silver epergne: \"You will see! You will all see!\"\n\nJulia catches you staring off into space. \"Are you alright? You seem a little peaked.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"Only on weekends, of course. During the week I'm on all Soylent now,\" Francis points out. \"I mean, excepting dinner parties.\" He adds a little laugh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the silverware", "response": "awkward)\n\nA full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"We are the maggots feasting on god's corpse!\nWe are the darkness that consumes!\"\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"Oh, interesting. How's the Soylent been treating you?\", Raul asks. \"Pretty well! I mean once you get over the bloating in the first week or so.\", Francis replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "Made out of the unidentifiable dark-stained wood material as the chair legs, and devoid of ornamental detail.\n\nOn the table are your phone, a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some sous-vide fish) and some glasses.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nA few thoughtful nods cross around the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plates", "response": "These are made out of mercifully matte black ceramic.\n\nOn the plates are some sous-vide fish.\n\nAha! There's your phone, right next to the plates. You snatch it up.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"So what's for dessert?\" Janet pipes up, shifting the remains of her fish around on the plate.\n\nYou try to say something, but you're basically paralyzed by mortification at this point. Coming here was a terrible idea, and you realize that you're going to scurry home feeling like a damn fool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plates", "response": "These are made out of mercifully matte black ceramic.\n\nOn the plates are some sous-vide fish.\n\nAha! There's your phone, right next to the plates. You snatch it up.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nA few thoughtful nods cross around the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like someone liked one of your tweets.\n\n\"So what's for dessert?\" Janet pipes up, shifting the remains of her fish around on the plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the food", "response": "You take a look at the sous-vide fish before digging in:\nThis is neither salmon nor tuna nor white fish, so you're at a loss for what it is, but it seems like it was cooked sous-vide and then blowtorched to within an inch of its life. It's coated in some kind of brownish glaze. The side dish for this is some mix of purple, yellow, and red-orange vegetables that have been spiralized then roasted.\n\nYou take a few bites out of the sous-vide fish.\nJulia was clearly hoping this fish would get a nice crispy crust from the blowtorch, but it just wasn't going to happen; it falls apart at the fork pretty sadly. The vegetables on the side are actually just fancy-colored carrots.\n\n\"It's a surprise. But I think I'll bring it over in a moment,\" Julia replies.\n\n\"You barely touched your fish!\", Julia points out. You try to pretend that's not the case.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with a tray holding a large, mirror-glazed cake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cake", "response": "It's covered in a marbled, light green shell that looks more like glossy plastic than food.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the mirror-glazed cake: \"There is no hope! Never was any\nhope!\"\n\nFrancis leans back on his chair, wearing the expression of a well-fed bull frog.\n\nYou try to say something, but you're basically paralyzed by mortification at this point. Coming here was a terrible idea, and you realize that you're going to scurry home feeling like a damn fool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yithlak", "response": "\"Yithlak! Yithlak!\", the words come unbidden to your mouth, \"The shadow of night creeping over god's corpse! The ten thousand diseased hearts!\" It goes on like this for about half an hour. In the end, they find you drooling on the floor of the vestibule.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the coat", "response": "(the coat)\nYou find nothing of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the coat on the hook", "response": "(the coat on the coat hook)\nYou can't help but look into the mirror as you take the coat off...\n\nA nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: It has inky\nblack pits for eyes, but it still seems to stare right at you. \"Breach the seals. Open the gate,\" it says, in a cracked voice that's not quite your own.\n\nThe head in the mirror belongs to a version of yourself from a previous iteration of the universe. One that seemingly ended really poorly, given that it's clearly possessed by some kind of world-rending evil. You're really in no state to attend a dinner party, but you'd already RSVP'd.\n\nYou take off your coat and hang it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the head", "response": "The head is there and yet not there; you can't really reach it or see it, except when it stands over the shoulder of your reflection and tells you things...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You find your way to the dining room...\n\nA large bay window lets in no light through the thick drapes; a brass chandelier that Julia hasn't been able to get rid of clashes a bit with the modernist minimalism of the furniture.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nOn the table are a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some seafood vol-au-vents) and some glasses.\n\nJulia looks at you thoughtfully from her chair at the head of the table. \"Please,\" she says, \"take a seat.\"\n\nYou do so, and she adds: \"I see you didn't bring a date. That's a shame.\"\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yithlak", "response": "\"Yithlak\", Julia says thoughtfully. \"Yithlak, yithlak. Where have I heard the name before?\" Francis joins in: \"Yithlak.\" \"Yithlak. Yithlak Yithlak.\" Pretty soon all the party guests are chanting along with you, and you can feel the darkness closing in around your eyes, and it is so soothing when, through the bay window, you see the sky split apart and start disgorging spiders; it is so blissful that you respond by issuing forth spiders from your own mouth in response...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yithlak", "response": "\"Yithlak! Yithlak!\", the words come unbidden to your mouth, \"The shadow of night creeping over god's corpse! The ten thousand diseased hearts!\" It goes on like this for about half an hour. In the end, they find you drooling on the floor of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: It has inky\nblack pits for eyes, but it still seems to stare right at you. \"Breach the seals. Open the gate,\" it says, in a cracked voice that's not quite your own.\n\nThe head in the mirror belongs to a version of yourself from a previous iteration of the universe. One that seemingly ended really poorly, given that it's clearly possessed by some kind of world-rending evil. You're really in no state to attend a dinner party, but you'd already RSVP'd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Worms issue\nfrom the mouth! Black ichor! Falling and falling!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"You cannot\nsave them! Nobody can be saved!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Knock down\nthe doors and listen as hell makes itself heard!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"We all fall down! We all fall through!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Blood from\nthe eyes! Rats! Rats!\"\n\nYou realize that blood is dripping from your left nostril.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Yithlak!\nSay his name! Call him into being! Yithlak! Yithlak!\"\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"You will\nsee! You will all see!\"\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the coat", "response": "(the coat)\n(first taking the coat off)\nYou take off your coat and hang it.\n\nDropped.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mirror", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"We are the maggots feasting on god's corpse! We are the darkness that consumes!\"\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"There is no hope! Never was any hope!\"\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "A nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"The worm awakens! It stirs inside your belly!\"\n\nYou have the most horrible sensation that all your teeth have shattered inside your mouth, and you're spitting out bits of grit and pebbles that used to be your teeth. You think you're bleeding but you're not sure from where. Darkness fills in the edges of your vision.\n\nThey find you on the floor an hour later, coughing up for no apparent reason, eyes bloodshot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the coat", "response": "(the coat)\n(first taking the coat off)\nYou can't help but look into the mirror as you take the coat off...\n\nA nice, big mirror on a wooden frame. Of course.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the full-length mirror, and\nalso the reflection of your additional, unseen head: It has inky\nblack pits for eyes, but it still seems to stare right at you. \"Breach the seals. Open the gate,\" it says, in a cracked voice that's not quite your own.\n\nThe head in the mirror belongs to a version of yourself from a previous iteration of the universe. One that seemingly ended really poorly, given that it's clearly possessed by some kind of world-rending evil. You're really in no state to attend a dinner party, but you'd already RSVP'd.\n\nYou take off your coat and hang it.\n\nDropped.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The vestibule, that most Freudian of rooms, is the liminal space between the front door and the interior of the house proper. This one, like the rest of the house, is wood-paneled and vaguely beaux-arts in a way that can only be described as \"tweedy.\"\n\nYou try not to catch yourself on the full-length mirror.\n\nYou can also see a coat and a coat hook here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hang coat", "response": "Which do you mean, the coat or the coat hook?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "You could EXCUSE yourself to go to the bathroom.\n\n\"Please, dig in. I think you'll enjoy this one,\" Julia says. Francis pokes at the dish in front of him with a fork: \"What is it?\" \"Why don't you take a bite and tell me?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "You've already finished the seafood vol-au-vents.\n\nFrancis replies: \"Really well, actually. We just applied for another patent last week.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"You cannot save them! Nobody can be saved!\"\n\n\"I love this,\" Janet pipes in. \"Is it lobster?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Knock down the doors and listen as hell makes itself heard!\"\n\n\"Keep guessing,\" Julia continues. \"I think Raul had some really good lectures last term, didn't you?\" She pats her husband on the shoulder, for emphasis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"We all fall down! We all fall through!\"\n\n\"Scallops. It's gotta be scallops,\" Francis finally realizes. \"Got it in two,\" Julia replies. Raul seems almost relieved that's over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Blood from the eyes! Rats! Rats!\"\n\nYou realize that blood is dripping from your left nostril.\n\nJulia: \"What's that patent about again?\" Francis seems positively delighted to explain.\n\nJulia stares at your face for a moment. \"Oh, dear; maybe you should go get that cleaned up.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Excuse", "response": "You politely excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.\n\nThis is the secondary, downstairs bathroom, so there's just a sink and a toilet, and a small high window to let in some moonlight. The floor and wall tiles are a jadeish shade of green, and they thankfully aren't reflective enough for you to see yourself in them.\n\nYou can see a bathroom mirror (closed) here.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the mirror", "response": "You can't help but look at the mirror before opening it: A nice-looking bathroom mirror cabinet.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the bathroom mirror, and also\nthe reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Yithlak! Say his name! Call him into being! Yithlak! Yithlak!\"\n\nYou open the bathroom mirror, revealing a bag of cotton balls.\n\nYou grab one of the cotton balls and shove some of it up your nostril to staunch the bleeding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like you're supposed to have taken your medication already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "You find your way to the dining room...\n\nA large bay window lets in no light through the thick drapes; a brass chandelier that Julia hasn't been able to get rid of clashes a bit with the modernist minimalism of the furniture.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nOn the table are a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some squash soup) and some glasses.\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou sit yourself down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You take a look at the squash soup before digging in:\nA bright orange broth. Seasonal. Safe. Surprisingly clear, actually, almost like consomm��...\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the squash soup: \"You will see! You will all see!\"\n\nJulia catches you staring off into space. \"Are you alright? You seem a little peaked.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou take a few bites out of the squash soup.\nThe taste is so subtle that you could be forgiven for thinking it doesn't actually taste of very much at all.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You finish eating the squash soup.\nAfter a few more slurps, you come to the coclusion that it tastes \"brown\".\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plates", "response": "These are made out of mercifully matte black ceramic.\n\nOn the plates are some squash soup.\n\nJulia: \"Really, it wasn't anything important. A side project at best.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the epergne", "response": "An epergne, you have recently learned, is a table centerpiece with suspended trays meant to hold food or flowers or what have you; this one, in a sort of postmodern-zen deco move, is actually loaded with a variety of glass marbles and interestingly-shaped river rocks. It is, regardless, an old traditional piece of polished silverware.\n\nOn the sterling silver epergne are some marbles.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the sterling silver epergne: \"We are the maggots feasting on\ngod's corpse! We are the darkness that consumes!\"\n\nYou can tell that some tension is hanging in the air, just for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the epergne", "response": "An epergne, you have recently learned, is a table centerpiece with suspended trays meant to hold food or flowers or what have you; this one, in a sort of postmodern-zen deco move, is actually loaded with a variety of glass marbles and interestingly-shaped river rocks. It is, regardless, an old traditional piece of polished silverware.\n\nOn the sterling silver epergne are some marbles.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the sterling silver epergne: \"There is no hope! Never was any hope!\"\n\nJanet: \"Really, we should do this more often. It's been so hard to get together with friends lately.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the epergne", "response": "An epergne, you have recently learned, is a table centerpiece with suspended trays meant to hold food or flowers or what have you; this one, in a sort of postmodern-zen deco move, is actually loaded with a variety of glass marbles and interestingly-shaped river rocks. It is, regardless, an old traditional piece of polished silverware.\n\nOn the sterling silver epergne are some marbles.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the sterling silver epergne: \"The worm awakens! It stirs\ninside your belly!\"\n\n\"Shut up!\", you finally scream at the sterling silver epergne. In no time at all you're tearing off your hair as you stare at the silverware, knocking your chair over behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the food", "response": "You take a look at the seafood vol-au-vents before digging in:\n\nA vol-au-vent is a little bucket made out of puff pastry; this one is filled with some kind of pinkish material that you strongly suspect is some type of seafood, but you can't identify which. It's also topped with three thin, artistically-arranged chives.\n\nYou take a few bites out of the seafood vol-au-vents.\nThe filling consists of pale bits of vaguely crustacean flesh floating in vaguely sea-tasting sauce; it's either lobster in a crab sauce, or crab in a lobster sauce. It runs all over your plate the moment you crack the exterior of the puff pastry.\n\n\"Please, dig in. I think you'll enjoy this one,\" Julia says. Francis pokes at the dish in front of him with a fork: \"What is it?\" \"Why don't you take a bite and tell me?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the food", "response": "Your eyes run across the silverware you're using:\nA full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Worms issue from the mouth! Black ichor!\nFalling and falling!\"\n\nYou finish eating the seafood vol-au-vents.\nIt's a bit large for an amuse-bouche, to be honest, but you did skip lunch today.\n\nFrancis uses his fork to collapse the construction on his plate. \"Is it... crab?\" Julia just smiles and takes a bite out of her own plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the scallops", "response": "Whom do you want to say that to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nFrancis turns to Raul: \"So how's the teaching going?\" \"Fine. How's the business going?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Raul", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nFrancis replies: \"Really well, actually. We just applied for another patent last week.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Raul", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I love this,\" Janet pipes in. \"Is it lobster?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Raul", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Keep guessing,\" Julia continues. \"I think Raul had some really good lectures last term, didn't you?\" She pats her husband on the shoulder, for emphasis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Raul", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Scallops. It's gotta be scallops,\" Francis finally realizes. \"Got it in two,\" Julia replies. Raul seems almost relieved that's over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Raul", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia: \"What's that patent about again?\" Francis seems positively delighted to explain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Raul", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nFrancis launches into his explanation. It goes over your head but you think you catch the word \"telomers\". He's interrupted, of course, when Julia asks if everyone is ready for the soup. Everyone is about as excited as you can get for soup, which is to say not very much at all.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with the next course: A soup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like you're supposed to have taken your medication already.\n\n\"This is good soup,\" Janet says delightedly. \"Is this yam?\" \"Squash,\" Julia replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You take a look at the squash soup before digging in:\nA bright orange broth. Seasonal. Safe. Surprisingly clear, actually, almost like consomm��...\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the squash soup: \"You cannot save them! Nobody can be saved!\"\n\nYou take a few bites out of the squash soup.\nThe taste is so subtle that you could be forgiven for thinking it doesn't actually taste of very much at all.\n\nFrancis tries to get back on track explaining what his company does, but nobody seems too interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "You finish eating the squash soup.\nAfter a few more slurps, you come to the coclusion that it tastes \"brown\".\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Janet", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia: \"Really, it wasn't anything important. A side project at best.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Janet", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nYou can tell that some tension is hanging in the air, just for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Janet", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJanet: \"Really, we should do this more often. It's been so hard to get together with friends lately.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Janet", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nRaul just coughs into his soup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Janet", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia politely asks if everyone is ready for the main course.\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with the main course, some sort of sous-vide cooked fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish", "response": "You take a look at the sous-vide fish before digging in:\nThis is neither salmon nor tuna nor white fish, so you're at a loss for what it is, but it seems like it was cooked sous-vide and then blowtorched to within an inch of its life. It's coated in some kind of brownish glaze. The side dish for this is some mix of purple, yellow, and red-orange vegetables that have been spiralized then roasted.\n\nYou take a few bites out of the sous-vide fish.\nJulia was clearly hoping this fish would get a nice crispy crust from the blowtorch, but it just wasn't going to happen; it falls apart at the fork pretty sadly. The vegetables on the side are actually just fancy-colored carrots.\n\n\"This looks... interesting,\" Francis says, lifting a strand of vegetable matter on the tip of his fork.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\nYou realize it's not on you; you must have put it down on the table somewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plates", "response": "These are made out of mercifully matte black ceramic.\n\nOn the plates are some sous-vide fish.\n\nJanet pulls out her phone. \"I should Pinterest this, it looks gorgeous.\" But then she gets self-conscious, and puts her phone away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the epergne", "response": "An epergne, you have recently learned, is a table centerpiece with suspended trays meant to hold food or flowers or what have you; this one, in a sort of postmodern-zen deco move, is actually loaded with a variety of glass marbles and interestingly-shaped river rocks. It is, regardless, an old traditional piece of polished silverware.\n\nOn the sterling silver epergne are some marbles.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the sterling silver epergne: \"Knock down the doors and listen\nas hell makes itself heard!\"\n\nYou're getting a bit anxious about that unread notification.\n\n\"We get everything there from a CSA subscription,\" Raul says. \"Even the fish.\"\n\nRain starts up outside, audibly battering the roof of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glasses", "response": "Nice-looking stemless wine glasses.\n\nAha! There's your phone, right next to the glasses. You snatch it up.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the glasses: \"We all fall down! We all fall through!\"\n\nI hope you won't have too much trouble getting home in the rain.\", Julia says, noting the drops banging against the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like an email newsletter you forgot to unsubscribe from arrived.\n\n\"Francis and I were really into sous-vide last year,\" Janet points out. \"But now we're more into hearth cooking. Ever since the thing with the clams.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish", "response": "You finish eating the sous-vide fish.\nAfter some forking, the glaze has melded completely with the gelatinous flesh of the fish; the whole thing tastes like miso, but with a sort of gel consistency.\n\n\"Only on weekends, of course. During the week I'm on all Soylent now,\" Francis points out. \"I mean, excepting dinner parties.\" He adds a little laugh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Oh, interesting. How's the Soylent been treating you?\", Raul asks. \"Pretty well! I mean once you get over the bloating in the first week or so.\", Francis replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nA few thoughtful nods cross around the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"So what's for dessert?\" Janet pipes up, shifting the remains of her fish around on the plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"It's a surprise. But I think I'll bring it over in a moment,\" Julia replies.\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with a tray holding a large, mirror-glazed cake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cake", "response": "You take a look at the mirror-glazed cake before digging in:\nIt's covered in a marbled, light green shell that looks more like glossy plastic than food.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the mirror-glazed cake: \"Blood from the eyes! Rats! Rats!\"\n\nYou realize that blood is dripping from your left nostril.\n\nMaybe wait until Julia has cut into it.\n\nFrancis leans back on his chair, wearing the expression of a well-fed bull frog.\n\nJulia stares at your face for a moment. \"Oh, dear; maybe you should go get that cleaned up.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Excuse", "response": "You politely excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.\n\nThis is the secondary, downstairs bathroom, so there's just a sink and a toilet, and a small high window to let in some moonlight. The floor and wall tiles are a jadeish shade of green, and they thankfully aren't reflective enough for you to see yourself in them.\n\nYou can see a bathroom mirror (closed) here.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.\n\nJulia carefully cuts, and serves, slices of the cake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the mirror", "response": "You can't help but look at the mirror before opening it: A nice-looking bathroom mirror cabinet.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the bathroom mirror, and also\nthe reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Yithlak! Say his name! Call him into being! Yithlak! Yithlak!\"\n\nYou open the bathroom mirror, revealing a bag of cotton balls.\n\nYou grab one of the cotton balls and shove some of it up your nostril to staunch the bleeding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "You find your way to the dining room...\n\nA large bay window lets in no light through the thick drapes; a brass chandelier that Julia hasn't been able to get rid of clashes a bit with the modernist minimalism of the furniture.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nOn the table are a silver tray (on which is a mirror-glazed cake), a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some green-white cake) and some glasses.\n\n\"You guys have to come over more often, if it'll get Julia to make more cakes,\" Raul says. Polite laughs from the guests.\n\nYou sit yourself down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cake", "response": "(the green-white cake)\nYou take a look at the green-white cake before digging in:\nOn the inside, it's a pretty standard sponge cake, except both the cream filling and the cake itself are flecked with some kind of greenish substance.\n\nYou take a few bites out of the green-white cake.\nThe greenish substance is basil. This is a basil cake. It's very sweet but still reminiscent of marinara sauce.\n\nJanet pokes at her cake. \"Is that cake gluten-free?\" \"No,\" Julia replies, and she abruptly drops her fork. You can't help but feel like the awkwardness of the moment splashes back on you.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cake", "response": "(the green-white cake)\nYou finish eating the green-white cake.\nHonestly, Julia was a little over-generous with the slicing there.\n\n\"This is good. Is this basil? That's so clever,\" Francis says, already more than halfway through a generous slice. \"I think I'll have some more actually...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Raul", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Well I'm glad. It's just so hard to get people to come over these days,\" Julia says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "You close your eyes and take a breath.\n\n\"I miss Margo,\" Julia adds thoughtfully. \"Oh. Sorry,\" she adds, realizing you're there.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "awkward)\n\nYour eyes start to wander, eventually landing on the mirror-glazed cake: It's covered in a marbled, light green shell that looks more like glossy plastic than food. Some slices have been cut out of it.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the mirror-glazed cake: \"You will see! You will all see!\"\n\nJulia catches you staring off into space. \"Are you alright? You seem a little peaked.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"I mean I promise Janet and I will be around, even after the move,\" Francis says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I mean I promise Janet and I will be around, even after the move,\" Francis says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I'll hold you to that!\", Julia replies with a slightly hollow laugh as she gets up.\n\nJulia takes away the cake, mercifully concluding the dinner. \"Well. What did you think?\", she asks as she returns from the kitchen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Lovely as always,\" Francis responds. \"Really, you're so good at this.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Oh, I dabble,\" Julia replies. \"Have to keep myself busy, you know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nThe guests lean back on their chairs, letting their stomach contents settle over a lingering moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"So. Is anyone for coffee, maybe a drink?\", Julia asks.\n\nRumbling thunder seems to shake the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I think we better be getting on, actually. I have an early flight tomorrow,\" Francis responds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"He's going over to Austin for a sort of pre-pre South by Southwest thing,\" Janet continues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I mean really it's just a networking event,\" Francis adds, already getting up from his chair. \"But you know, gotta act like a founder now, and all that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Right, of course. Well it was so nice to see you two,\" Julia responds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia and Raul stand up to say their goodbyes as Janet and Francis get up to leave. \"Well isn't that something,\" Raul adds emptily as he gets back on his seat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia turns to you: \"So, how did you like the dinner?\" You manage to say something about it being lovely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "awkward)\n\nReally, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Will you be staying for drinks?\", Raul asks you. \"I can't, really, I have a bit of an early day in the morning,\" you respond. \"Ah, what a shame. Another time maybe,\" Julia says.\n\nYou get the distinct sense you should be gone by now.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "awkward)\n\nJust EXCUSE yourself to leave this awful dinner.\n\nRaul fidgets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Excuse", "response": "awkward)\n\nYou mumble something about having to get going, and manage to extricate yourself from the goodbyes in record time. Soon, you're breaking out of the vestibule and stepping towards your car in glee; the humid chill of the air has fogged the windows, preventing them from showing your reflection. You have escaped with most of your face, and your sanity, intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paratext", "response": "About the Author\nAmusing things to Try\nDon't Mind My Apocalypse Head, written late in March of 2017, is a social anxiety body horror short story based on a couple of remarkably unpleasant dreams.\n\nSpecial thanks to my Patreon supporters who make this kind of small-scale work possible: Isak Grozny, Devin Raposo, Emily Short, Liza Daily, and Doug Orleans.\n\nYou can become a supporter at [LINK]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "About the Author\nAmusing things to Try", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Amusing things to Try\nBruno Dias writes interactive fiction, games, and nonfiction from somewhere in S��o Paulo, Brazil. He can be found @NotBrunoAgain on the terrible bird website, or @brunodias on mastodon.social.\n\n> About the Author\nAmusing things to Try", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "> Amusing things to Try\n1/12: If you have completed the story already, have you tried...\n\nPress SPACE to return to the menu or H to reveal another hint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like someone liked one of your tweets.\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia: \"Really, it wasn't anything important. A side project at best.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Knock down the doors and listen as hell makes itself heard!\"\n\nYou can tell that some tension is hanging in the air, just for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"We all fall down! We all fall through!\"\n\nJanet: \"Really, we should do this more often. It's been so hard to get together with friends lately.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Blood from the eyes! Rats! Rats!\"\n\nYou realize that blood is dripping from your left nostril.\n\nRaul just coughs into his soup.\n\nJulia stares at your face for a moment. \"Oh, dear; maybe you should go get that cleaned up.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia politely asks if everyone is ready for the main course.\n\n\"There's some cotton in the downstairs bathroom\", Julia adds.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"Not much for soup tonight?\", Julia says pointedly at you. You stammer something in reply.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia steps away with the plates and returns with the main course, some sort of sous-vide cooked fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "awkward)\n\nReally, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"This looks... interesting,\" Francis says, lifting a strand of vegetable matter on the tip of his fork.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\nYou realize it's not on you; you must have put it down on the table somewhere.\n\nJulia stares at your ongoing nosebleed.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plate", "response": "These are made out of mercifully matte black ceramic.\n\nOn the plates are some sous-vide fish.\n\nAha! There's your phone, right next to the plates. You snatch it up.\n\nJanet pulls out her phone. \"I should Pinterest this, it looks gorgeous.\" But then she gets self-conscious, and puts her phone away.\n\nJulia stares at your ongoing nosebleed.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like an email newsletter you forgot to unsubscribe from arrived.\n\n\"We get everything there from a CSA subscription,\" Raul says. \"Even the fish.\"\n\nRain starts up outside, audibly battering the roof of the house.\n\nJulia stares at your ongoing nosebleed.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou try to say something, but you're basically paralyzed by mortification at this point. Coming here was a terrible idea, and you realize that you're going to scurry home feeling like a damn fool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Knock down the doors and listen as hell makes itself heard!\"\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"We all fall down! We all fall through!\"\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the silverware", "response": "A full set of silverware, including mirror-polished knives, forks, spoons, and so on, carefully placed next to everyone's plates.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the silverware: \"Blood from the eyes! Rats! Rats!\"\n\nYou realize that blood is dripping from your left nostril.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.\n\nJulia stares at your face for a moment. \"Oh, dear; maybe you should go get that cleaned up.\"\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Excuse", "response": "You politely excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.\n\nThis is the secondary, downstairs bathroom, so there's just a sink and a toilet, and a small high window to let in some moonlight. The floor and wall tiles are a jadeish shade of green, and they thankfully aren't reflective enough for you to see yourself in them.\n\nYou can see a bathroom mirror (closed) here.\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like an email newsletter you forgot to unsubscribe from arrived.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "You get tired of staring at the phone, and your eyes wander over to the bathroom mirror instead: A nice-looking bathroom mirror cabinet.\n\nYou spot your reflection clearly on the bathroom mirror, and also\nthe reflection of your additional, unseen head: \"Yithlak! Say his name! Call him into being! Yithlak! Yithlak!\"\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "You launch into a spontaneous rendition of \"Modern Major General\", which you realize two bars in was an atrocious idea, so you trail off. [Your awkwardness has increased by five points.]\n\nBlood drips from your nose.\n\nYou try to say something, but you're basically paralyzed by mortification at this point. Coming here was a terrible idea, and you realize that you're going to scurry home feeling like a damn fool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nYour phone chirps as a notification comes in.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like you're supposed to have taken your medication already.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nRain starts up outside, audibly battering the roof of the house.\n\nYou start to feel kind of light-headed.\n\nBlood drips from your nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nYour body doesn't seem to want to stay upright, and you crumple into a lump on the floor, blood streaking from your face. They'll find you, pale and unconscious, about an hour later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return", "response": "You find your way to the dining room...\n\nA large bay window lets in no light through the thick drapes; a brass chandelier that Julia hasn't been able to get rid of clashes a bit with the modernist minimalism of the furniture.\n\nOn the dining chairs are Julia, Raul, Francis and Janet.\n\nOn the table are a sterling silver epergne (on which are some marbles), some silverware, some plates (on which are some sous-vide fish) and some glasses.\n\n\"Francis and I were really into sous-vide last year,\" Janet points out. \"But now we're more into hearth cooking. Ever since the thing with the clams.\"\n\nJulia pointedly glances at your plate, reminding you that you haven't touched your food.\n\nYour head suddenly seems enormously heavy, and you find your face crumpling into the sous-vide fish. Soon, blessed unconsciousness takes over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paratext", "response": "About the Author\nAmusing things to Try", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Amusing things to Try", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "> Amusing things to Try", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack julia", "response": "It's poor manners to kill a host in her own house, and also you have way too much social anxiety to thrive in prison.\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack raul", "response": "It's poor manners to kill a host in his own house, and also you have way too much social anxiety to thrive in prison.\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack janet", "response": "Of all these people, she's the one you wanna throttle?\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack francis", "response": "You know what. Fine. He does look very punchable. You practically clamber over the table and sock him right in the throat. What happens next is too confusing, but your terrible extra head is staring back at you in glee from the epergne while Raul holds you down...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "I think the head made it very clear that God is dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cry", "response": "You start tearing up.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cry", "response": "You sob a little.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cry", "response": "You're a sobbing, blubbering mess.\n[Your awkwardness has increased by five points.]\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.\n\nYou try to say something, but you're basically paralyzed by mortification at this point. Coming here was a terrible idea, and you realize that you're going to scurry home feeling like a damn fool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fart", "response": "Toot.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fart", "response": "Phhhth.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like someone liked one of your tweets.\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fart", "response": "Ghhsh.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia: \"Really, it wasn't anything important. A side project at best.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fart", "response": "awkward)\n\nPhhhth.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou can tell that some tension is hanging in the air, just for a moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fart", "response": "Ghhsh.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJanet: \"Really, we should do this more often. It's been so hard to get together with friends lately.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Julia", "response": "Proudly grey-haired and staring at the word from behind wire-rim glasses. Julia teaches classics, or so you understand to be the case, though as far as you know she gives only seminars, not lectures, and spends most of her time on various obscure side projects.\n\nJulia suddenly turns to you: \"So how's the job search going?\" You try to talk for a moment about what you're working on now, but end up trailing off.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Julia", "response": "Julia catches you staring at her, tilting her head at you.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou're getting visibly agitated about not looking at your phone.\n\nFrancis faces you: \"You could come work with us at Agrosynth. You did your dissertation on plant genetics, right?\" \"Minoan archeology,\" you reply reflexively. \"Ah, my mistake.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Julia", "response": "Julia catches you staring at her, tilting her head at you.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\n\"I seem to remember Julia did some Minoan work back in the day,\" Raul notes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Julia", "response": "Julia catches you staring at her, tilting her head at you.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nYou really, really wanna look at that notification. What if Margo texted?\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]\n\nJulia: \"Really, it wasn't anything important. A side project at best.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "cheapglulxe quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plate", "response": "You get tired of staring at the plates, and your eyes wander over to the glasses instead: Nice-looking stemless wine glasses.\n\nAha! There's your phone, right next to the glasses. You snatch it up.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the glasses: \"Knock down the doors and listen as hell makes\nitself heard!\"\n\nYou're getting a bit anxious about that unread notification.\n\n\"We get everything there from a CSA subscription,\" Raul says. \"Even the fish.\"\n\nRain starts up outside, audibly battering the roof of the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "A mid-range Android. The notification light is pulsing.\n\nYou clear away the notifications; there's nothing important. Looks like an email newsletter you forgot to unsubscribe from arrived.\n\nI hope you won't have too much trouble getting home in the rain.\", Julia says, noting the drops banging against the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat food", "response": "You finish eating the sous-vide fish.\nAfter some forking, the glaze has melded completely with the gelatinous flesh of the fish; the whole thing tastes like miso, but with a sort of gel consistency.\n\n\"Francis and I were really into sous-vide last year,\" Janet points out. \"But now we're more into hearth cooking. Ever since the thing with the clams.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Only on weekends, of course. During the week I'm on all Soylent now,\" Francis points out. \"I mean, excepting dinner parties.\" He adds a little laugh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Oh, interesting. How's the Soylent been treating you?\", Raul asks. \"Pretty well! I mean once you get over the bloating in the first week or so.\", Francis replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nA few thoughtful nods cross around the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cake", "response": "You take a look at the mirror-glazed cake before digging in:\nIt's covered in a marbled, light green shell that looks more like glossy plastic than food.\n\nYou catch a distorted glimpse of your additional head, reflected\non the mirror-glazed cake: \"We all fall down! We all fall\nthrough!\"\n\nMaybe wait until Julia has cut into it.\n\nFrancis leans back on his chair, wearing the expression of a well-fed bull frog.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nFrancis leans back on his chair, wearing the expression of a well-fed bull frog.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"That's gorgeous,\" says Janet. \"It's pretty good, yeah,\" Francis adds.\n\nJulia carefully cuts, and serves, slices of the cake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cake", "response": "(the green-white cake)\nYou take a look at the green-white cake before digging in:\nOn the inside, it's a pretty standard sponge cake, except both the cream filling and the cake itself are flecked with some kind of greenish substance.\n\nYou take a few bites out of the green-white cake.\nThe greenish substance is basil. This is a basil cake. It's very sweet but still reminiscent of marinara sauce.\n\n\"Thanks! It's easier than it looks, really,\" Julia says as she looms over the cake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cake", "response": "(the green-white cake)\nYou finish eating the green-white cake.\nHonestly, Julia was a little over-generous with the slicing there.\n\n\"You guys have to come over more often, if it'll get Julia to make more cakes,\" Raul says. Polite laughs from the guests.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJanet pokes at her cake. \"Is that cake gluten-free?\" \"No,\" Julia replies, and she abruptly drops her fork. You can't help but feel like the awkwardness of the moment splashes back on you.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"This is good. Is this basil? That's so clever,\" Francis says, already more than halfway through a generous slice. \"I think I'll have some more actually...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Well I'm glad. It's just so hard to get people to come over these days,\" Julia says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I miss Margo,\" Julia adds thoughtfully. \"Oh. Sorry,\" she adds, realizing you're there.\n\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I mean I promise Janet and I will be around, even after the move,\" Francis says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"I'll hold you to that!\", Julia replies with a slightly hollow laugh as she gets up.\n\nJulia takes away the cake, mercifully concluding the dinner. \"Well. What did you think?\", she asks as she returns from the kitchen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Lovely as always,\" Francis responds. \"Really, you're so good at this.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\n\"Will you be staying for drinks?\", Raul asks you. \"I can't, really, I have a bit of an early day in the morning,\" you respond. \"Ah, what a shame. Another time maybe,\" Julia says.\n\nYou get the distinct sense you should be gone by now.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia looks like she might say something, then doesn't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia coughs politely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nan additional head looks like he might say something, then doesn't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia fidgets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "awkward)\n\nReally, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nRaul coughs politely.\n\nYou get the distinct sense you should be gone by now.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "awkward)\n\nReally, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia looks like she might say something, then doesn't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "awkward)\n\nReally, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nan additional head fidgets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "awkward)\n\nReally, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nan additional head coughs politely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "awkward)\n\nReally, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nan additional head looks like he might say something, then doesn't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nan additional head leans back on his chair thoughtfully.\n\nYou get the distinct sense you should be gone by now.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia coughs politely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nan additional head coughs politely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Julia", "response": "Really, you couldn't get a word in edgewise even if you had the mental fortitude to try.\n\nJulia looks like she might say something, then doesn't.\n\nYou try to say something, but you're basically paralyzed by mortification at this point. Coming here was a terrible idea, and you realize that you're going to scurry home feeling like a damn fool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "Just EXCUSE yourself to leave this awful dinner.\n\n\"Will you be staying for drinks?\", Raul asks you. \"I can't, really, I have a bit of an early day in the morning,\" you respond. \"Ah, what a shame. Another time maybe,\" Julia says.\n\nYou get the distinct sense you should be gone by now.\n[Your awkwardness has gone up by one point.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Excuse", "response": "You mumble something about having to get going, and manage to extricate yourself from the goodbyes in record time. Soon, you're breaking out of the vestibule and stepping towards your car in glee; the humid chill of the air has fogged the windows, preventing them from showing your reflection. You have escaped with most of your face, and your sanity, intact.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Horror" ]

[ "ECTOComp 2020", "ghost", "horror", "language", "Latin", "Le Grand Guignol", "parser", "single room", "walkthrough" ]

[ 2, 2, 2, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It is almost midnight. You're sitting in your bedroom, alone.\n\nOn the desk in front of you: a Latin dictionary, a blank sheet of lined paper, and the photocopied passage you need to translate for class tomorrow. You always leave things too late.\n\nAll distractions have been hidden away. The darkness outside means that nothing will be stealing your attention through the window either.\n\nYour pencil has been sharpened. It's time to get started.\n\nYou're sitting at your desk. It faces a window, which normally looks over your back yard, but currently all you can see is the night.\n\nBehind you, the rest of the room is overcome by the mess you've been promising your parents you'll tidy. But even Latin homework is preferable to cleaning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Fifteen years old and slightly sleep deprived.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You match priscos with the mores", "response": "Yes, they're both accusative plural! So together they mean: \"the ancient customs\".\n\nOkay, you can see how it fits together now - \"The month was May, and it retains the ancient customs.\" You jot it down, glad that the start hasn't been too hard so far. You're ready to look at the next line of the passage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the line", "response": "ille memor ritus et timidus manium,\n\nille means \"he\", nominative singular. rituum you had\nin the title, but it's genitive plural here - \"of the rites\".\nmanium means \"spirits\" again, but it's also genitive plural\nhere. There's a few words left you don't know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up memor", "response": "Adjective: mindful. Agrees with something nominative singular. Time to match!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up timidus", "response": "Adjective: afraid. Agrees with something nominative singular. What does it match with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Match memor with ille", "response": "That works! \"He\", where that person is \"mindful\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You match the timidus with the ille", "response": "Yes, both are nominative singular. Whoever \"he\" is referring to, they're \"afraid\".\n\nYou can put it together with that. \"He, mindful of the rites, and afraid of the spirits.\" You write it down, excited at the progress you're making, but you know you have to stay focussed if you don't want to lose your flow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You match unda with the pura", "response": "Both of them are ablative plural, that works: \"with pure water\".\n\nThat's enough to figure out the line! \"He gets up and rinses his hands with pure water from a spring.\" You jot it down. You hope your teacher won't mind your sleepy, sloppy handwriting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You match the nigras with the fabas", "response": "Perfect, the two of them are accusative plural: \"black beans\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the aversus", "response": "Adjective: facing away. Agrees with something that's nominative singular. Ah! Must be referring to the ille from earlier.\n\nAll right, you think you can see it now. \"He takes some black beans and throws them, facing away.\" You're getting close to the end now, just a few more lines to go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up paterni", "response": "Adjective: ancestral. It needs to match with something that's either nominative plural or vocative plural.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You match paterni with manes", "response": "Yes, they're both vocative plural. So the man is speaking to his \"ancestral spirits\", it seems.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You match the peracta with the sacra", "response": "Both of the words are nominative plural, so that works: \"completed rites.\"\n\nThis is it, you think you've figured out the final line. \"He looks back, and he thinks the sacred rites completed perfectly.\" As you pen the words down, the relief flowing through you is immense.\n\nBut then you realise that feeling inside you feels more like a chill than it does relief. Cold. Did you forget to shut the bedroom door behind you?\n\nYou look back, and -\n\nMaybe if you had not been so engrossed in your translating, you would have seen them coming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look back", "response": "You look back, and your stomach lurches.\n\nNine ghostly figures float in front of your closed bedroom door. Faded flesh clings, rotting, to their skeletons. From their ligaments hang scraps of cloth and thread and skin.\n\nYour eyes meet the empty sockets of the closest figure. You feel an unsettling presence snake its way into your mind - tendrils of thought not rooted in any words, any language, and yet you understand.\n\n\"It is May. The night is silent. The sacred rites. Forgotten. So many years. We have been dishonoured. Disrespected. Searching for people. Searching in in people. For those who still remember.\"\n\nYou lean back against your desk.\n\n\"And you do. You remember.\"\n\nThey begin to move toward you.\n\n\"You remember, and you did not perform them.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You're sitting at your desk. It faces a window, which normally looks over your back yard, but currently all you can see is the night.\n\nThere's a very quiet creaking noise, not noticeable until you looked up from your translation. You assume it's just the wind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "Simple, wooden. You solved the issue of it being too cluttered to work by pushing the clutter onto your bed instead. Now, there's only your Latin dictionary, a sheet of paper, and the photocopied passage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clutter", "response": "No thanks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na pencil", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the paper", "response": "The month was May, and it retains the ancient customs:\n\nWe perform the rites for the silent spirits.\n\nWhen it is night and the night lends silence to sleep,\n\nHe, mindful of the rites, and afraid of the spirits,\n\nGets up and rinses his hands with pure water from a spring.\n\nHe takes some black beans and throws them, whilst facing\naway.\n\nWhen he has said, \"Ancestral spirits, depart!\" nine times,", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "You're sitting at your desk. It faces a window, which normally looks over your back yard, but currently all you can see is the night.\n\nYou look up at the window. Something about the reflection of what's behind you seems... wrong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the reflection", "response": "You peer at the reflection in the window, then look back, and your stomach lurches.\n\nNine ghostly figures float in front of your closed bedroom door. Faded flesh clings, rotting, to their skeletons. From their ligaments hang scraps of cloth and thread and skin.\n\nYour eyes meet the empty sockets of the closest figure. You feel an unsettling presence snake its way into your mind - tendrils of thought not rooted in any words, any language, and yet you understand.\n\n\"It is May. The night is silent. The sacred rites. Forgotten. So many years. We have been dishonoured. Disrespected. Searching for people. Searching in in people. For those who still remember.\"\n\nYou lean back against your desk.\n\n\"And you do. You remember.\"\n\nThey begin to move toward you.\n\n\"You remember, and you did not perform them.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the ancenstral spirits depart", "response": "(to yourself)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "cheapglulxe quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 4, 1, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It is the hottest summer of all time (or at least it feels that way now that your electricity has been cut off). Your lack of employment has finally caught up with you. Your funds have been depleted and your pockets are empty. Last month's essentials (cable television and Internet access) are now but sweet memories. The lack of air conditioning feels like the final straw. You were really hoping to starve to death at a comfortable 68 degrees.\n\nYesterday for lunch you boiled and ate two hot dog wieners. For dinner, you drank the water you boiled them in. (Mmm, \"Hot Dog Soup\".) So far your dignity has kept you from rummaging through trash cans for food, but it's starting to sound like a viable option. Just the thought of sinking your teeth into someone else's left over pizza crust makes your mouth water.\n\nThe current economy has made it hell for a spoiled, out-of-work computer programmer such as yourself to find work. It wasn't too long ago that a five-figure salary seemed beneath you; today, given your current state of affairs, you would accept four. It's time to find a job and find some food, and find them today.\n\n\n\n Type ABOUT. Need a list of common commands? Type COMMANDS.)\n\nYour front door is closed, which prevents people outside from coming in, and vice versa (it's called physics).\n\nYou can also see a couch, a fish bowl, an entertainment center and a coffee table (on which is a remote control) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look roughly like an out of work computer programmer ... which, coincidentally, is exactly what you are. Your clothes are baggier than normal, thanks to your mandatory recent \"low-food-intake\" diet. Years of sitting behind computer keyboards have given you lean fingers and a pot belly, but when push comes to shove, you clean up nice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the remote", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the remote", "response": "If buttons are any measurement of manhood, owning this remote makes you a stud among studs. Back in the day, this bad mamma-jamma controlled everything you owned: your television, your DVD player, your cable box, your stereo, your coffee pot, and sometimes even your neighbor's automatic garage door. Over the past few months you've sold everything the remote used to control, but you keep the remote as a reminder of happier times.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "While your living room isn't much to look at, you call it home. Back when you were working 80 hours a week, you had no time to fix the place up. Now that you have all the time in the world, you have no money. Even in hard times, you retain your sense of irony. Your ratty couch sits along one wall, facing your cheap (and empty) entertainment center. The front door of your home is to the NORTH. Your dining room lies WEST, and your bedroom is to the SOUTH.\n\nYour front door is closed, which prevents people outside from coming in, and vice versa (it's called physics).\n\nYou can also see a couch, a fish bowl, an entertainment center and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the couch", "response": "The couch is wrapped in an orange and brown floral print, which must've been popular decades ago when the couch was manufactured. The bottom edges of the couch are scuffed and ripped. The main seam that runs along the top is unravelling, and the left-hand cushion literally has a spring poking through the fabric. What few meals you eat are typically eaten here; what food doesn't make it to your mouth usually falls down between the cushions ... which explains the smell.\n\nThe couch is at least 40 years old, and looks it. All told, it's one of the nicer things you own.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the couch", "response": "Sticking your hand between the cushions reveals a handful of change and an old burrito, both of which you pull out and set aside. Say ... who knows what another search might yield!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "Reaching waaaaay, waaaaay down inside the couch you feel ... the floor. Cue sad trombone sound effect here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the change", "response": "It's about a buck's worth of change -- mostly nickels and pennies, some stickier than others.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the burrito", "response": "It's a \"Taco Flaco\" burrito, which is odd since you haven't eaten there in a couple of weeks now. The burrito is covered in a five-o'clock shadow of green fuzz. Nothing (and I mean NOTHING) good can come from eating this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the center", "response": "The particle wood bows in the middle where your television used to sit. Your television, DVD player, and stereo used to sit together on the entertainment center. Now, they sit together at Bad Brad's BBQ and Pawn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fish bowl", "response": "This large fish bowl is where Goldie, your pet goldfish, used to live. Even when you were at your lowest, Goldie was always there for you. He was a good friend and a good companion, and two days after you ran out of peanut butter, he was a good snack.\n\nThe bowl used to contain water, rocks, fake plants, and a little treasure chest that opened and closed. None of those things seemed edible, so after Goldie's demise they all went in the trash. All that's left is the bowl itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the burrito", "response": "That's really a waste of everyone's time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the burrito", "response": "(first taking the burrito)\nYeah ... no. Here's a short list of things that sound more appetizing to eat: a stack of VCR tapes, your Aunt Ruth's face, your remote control, a used urinal cake, and your own foot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat remote", "response": "While the colored buttons do somewhat resemble Skittles, surely you can find something better to consume. Plus, if you ever get another television, repeatedly standing up and sitting down to change channels would be a real pain in the ass. Literally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bowl", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It's just a cheap table. It's not worth selling, and barely worth owning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the bowl", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the change", "response": "(first taking the handful of change)\nThat's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "While your living room isn't much to look at, you call it home. Back when you were working 80 hours a week, you had no time to fix the place up. Now that you have all the time in the world, you have no money. Even in hard times, you retain your sense of irony. Your ratty couch sits along one wall, facing your cheap (and empty) entertainment center. The front door of your home is to the NORTH. Your dining room lies WEST, and your bedroom is to the SOUTH.\n\nYour front door is closed, which prevents people outside from coming in, and vice versa (it's called physics).\n\nYou can also see a couch, an entertainment center and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The word \"room\" is a bit of a misnomer; it's more of a nook, and a sparse one at that. In the middle of the room on top of a rug sits a small table and two chairs. On the wall is a small tack where you hang your house key. Your kitchen is to the SOUTH, and the living room is to the EAST.\n\nYou can see a house key, a trash can (which is empty) and a table (on which are a napkin and a pen) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rug", "response": "Despite the fact that it slightly smells of urine, the rug really ties the room together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all from the table", "response": "napkin: Removed.\npen: Removed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at table", "response": "The table is old and tired. It gets passed around between family members every time someone has a garage sale. It's ugly, but you don't own it because of its style; you own it because it was free.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine napkin", "response": "It's an unused Taco Flaco napkin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the rug", "response": "Tug as you might, the carpet will not move. Ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pen", "response": "You bought two, since the thought og buying only one seemed depressing.\n\nIt's a generic ink pen with a black cap. You try to keep one or two on the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You write on the napkin", "response": "Using the pen, you write \"COUPON\" across the top of the napkin in bold letters. Below that in smaller letters, you write \"10 TACOS FOR A DOLLAR\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the key", "response": "Sometimes you like to pretend this is the key to the city, given to you by the Mayor himself. In reality, it's the key to your front door. You've never met the Mayor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the can", "response": "It's a trash can. Sorry, not everything in life is exciting. You want to make things more exciting? Put some taco wrappers in here!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the change", "response": "It's about a buck's worth of change -- mostly nickels and pennies, some stickier than others.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The kitchen is small and somewhat dark. Even back when you had electricity, the room wasn't all that impressive. Now, it's essentially useless. All the basics are here (a refrigerator, a stove, a microwave), but without any electricity they aren't of much use. The SOUTH end of the room contains a small pantry. The dining room is to your NORTH.\n\nYou can see a coffee mug here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine mug", "response": "The mug proclaims you are the \"World's Greatest Dad\", and who are you to argue? To date the only thing you've given birth to is unhealthy living conditions, but should you ever actually procreate, you feel like owning the mug gives you a head start. In the coffee mug department, you're the opposite of a procrastinator. You're like a ... precrastinator.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look roughly like an out of work computer programmer ... which, coincidentally, is exactly what you are. Your clothes are baggier than normal, thanks to your mandatory recent \"low-food-intake\" diet. Years of sitting behind computer keyboards have given you lean fingers and a pot belly, but when push comes to shove, you clean up nice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pantry", "response": "It's to the SOUTH.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the mug", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The pantry is like a closet for food. Back when you had some, this is where you kept it.\n\nYou can see a candy bar and a bag of Reese's Pieces here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "candy bar: Taken.\nbag of Reese's Pieces: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine candy bar", "response": "It's a Three Muskateers bar. Its fairly misshapen from sitting in your hot pantry, but surely it'll still be delicious. The only reason you haven't eaten it is, you can't remember where it came from.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Reese'S", "response": "You remember buying the Reese's Pieces to hand out for Halloween, but you can't remember which year. Reese's have never been a favorite snack of yours, so there they sit, waiting for next year's trick-or-treaters. Fortunately, candy doesn't have a shelf life. (At least that's what the guy at the dollar store told you while checking out. Come to think of it, perhaps he was being sarcastic.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat Reese'S", "response": "Blech, no thanks. You don't even like them when they're fresh, much less a decade old.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the bar", "response": "Not right now. You know what they say, \"Candy is dandy, but tacos are ...\" Well I can't remember how it goes, but the point is you're in the mood for tacos, not chocolate. Because you know what they say, \"Meat can't be beat, while chocolate is ...\" Crud. Rhyming is hard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The kitchen is small and somewhat dark. Even back when you had electricity, the room wasn't all that impressive. Now, it's essentially useless. All the basics are here (a refrigerator, a stove, a microwave), but without any electricity they aren't of much use. The SOUTH end of the room contains a small pantry. The dining room is to your NORTH.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The word \"room\" is a bit of a misnomer; it's more of a nook, and a sparse one at that. In the middle of the room on top of a rug sits a small table and two chairs. On the wall is a small tack where you hang your house key. Your kitchen is to the SOUTH, and the living room is to the EAST.\n\nYou can see a trash can (which is empty) and a table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "While your living room isn't much to look at, you call it home. Back when you were working 80 hours a week, you had no time to fix the place up. Now that you have all the time in the world, you have no money. Even in hard times, you retain your sense of irony. Your ratty couch sits along one wall, facing your cheap (and empty) entertainment center. The front door of your home is to the NORTH. Your dining room lies WEST, and your bedroom is to the SOUTH.\n\nYour front door is closed, which prevents people outside from coming in, and vice versa (it's called physics).\n\nYou can also see a couch, an entertainment center and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is where \"the magic\" happens ... if, by \"magic\", you mean crying yourself to sleep at night while listening to your stomach growl. To make ends meet a few months ago you pawned your bed frame, but kept the mattress. (You would have pawned the mattress too, but \"apparently\" it had one stain too many.) In the corner is your closet. Your small bathroom is to the EAST. Your living room is back NORTH.\n\nYou can see a mattress here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine mattress", "response": "Your mattress sits on the floor in the corner of your bedroom -- classy, for sure. The mattress has multiple small stains, and covers a larger stain on the carpet beneath. A wrinkled sheet covers the stains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stain", "response": "Body fluid, of some type. You often wonder whose ...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sheet", "response": "It's a \"holy sheet\", har har.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sheet", "response": "I'd leave it here; without electricity, it gets cold at night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the closet", "response": "It's like a pantry, but for clothes. There's no door blocking your view of your clothes. You didn't pawn it, it just fell off one day and you never put it back on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in closet", "response": "It's full of clothes and shoes and ties and spiders. Nothing you need at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the spiders", "response": "You don't see any at the moment, thank goodness. Perhaps they're hiding for fear of being eaten by you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clothes", "response": "For as broke as you are, your wardrobe doesn't look half bad. Should you land a job, you should have no problem finding something to wear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You enter the bathroom and, like Elvis, take care of business. When finished you flush, wash and dry your hands (even though nobody was looking -- good job!) and re-enter your bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na bag of Reese's Pieces\na candy bar\na coffee mug\na coupon\na house key\na pen\na handful of change\na fish bowl\na burrito\na remote control", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "This is where \"the magic\" happens ... if, by \"magic\", you mean crying yourself to sleep at night while listening to your stomach growl. To make ends meet a few months ago you pawned your bed frame, but kept the mattress. (You would have pawned the mattress too, but \"apparently\" it had one stain too many.) In the corner is your closet. Your small bathroom is to the EAST. Your living room is back NORTH.\n\nYou can see a mattress here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the front door with the house key", "response": "That's unlocked at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Like the inside of your house, the front porch is small and cozy. When you first moved in you bought a small chair and placed it on the porch with dreams of spending your evenings drinking beer and enjoying the scenery. You ran out of money for beer months ago, and the scenery consists of the dog across the street that continually barks and neighborhood kids that give you the finger everytime they see you. These days the porch serves as a place to put your chair and mount your mailbox. Your driveway is EAST from here; your house is back to the SOUTH.\n\nThe front door is open, potentially letting in heat, flies, and bill collectors.\n\nYou can also see a mailbox (which is closed) and a man here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "Wearing a black suit, white shirt, black tie, black gloves and sunglasses, the man looks more like one of the Blues Brothers than a door-to-door salesman. He certainly doesn't look like any bill collector you've ever seen, and you've seen your share. The man looks more like one of the Men in Black, and not in a funny \"Will Smith\" kind of way. In his left hand, the man carries a clipboard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mailbox", "response": "The mailbox is small and rusty. Although all you get are bills and collection notices these days, this used to be where your Netflix movies arrived. Boy, you sure miss Netflix. With over 60,000 titles and 20 million members in the United States and Canada, Netflix is the world's leading Internet subscription service for enjoying movies and TV shows. For $7.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streamed over the Internet to PCs, Macs and TVs. Among the large and expanding base of devices streaming from Netflix are Microsoft's Xbox 360, Nintendo's Wii and Sony's PS3 consoles; an array of Blu-ray disc players, Internet-connected TVs, home theater systems, digital video recorders and Internet video players; Apple's iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, as well as Apple TV and Google TV. In all, more than 200 devices that stream from Netflix are available in the U.S. and a growing number are available in Canada.\n\n(This mailbox was sponsored by Netflix. To sponsor an object in one of my upcoming games, please contact me.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the mailbox", "response": "You open the mailbox, revealing some bills.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bills", "response": "Bills, bills, and more bills. Most days, you don't even read them; by not opening them, you're hoping to claim \"plausible deniability\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Can I help you?\"\n2: \"Beat it, Elwood.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "What do you want to say to the man?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Enter a number between 0 and 2.\n\n\"Can I help you?\", you ask the man.\n\n\"On the contrary, I believe it is I who can help you,\" the man says. Either this guy is a complete weirdo, or he's doing a perfect impression Agent Smith from The Matrix. \"I have been sent by The Agency.\" (By the way he says \"The Agency\", you assume the words would be capitalized if you ever saw them in print.) We've had your application on file for quite some time now. Are you still looking for work?\n\n0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Absolutely.\"\n2: \"I don't know ... this is kind of creepy.\"\n3: \"Definitely not.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "What do you want to say to the man?\n\n\"I don't know ... this is kind of creepy,\" you say to the man.\n\n\"My apologies,\" says the man. \"English is not my first language. We received your application from a government job fair you attended several months ago. We have an immediate opening for a skilled programmer, and we think you would be perfect for the job. We can talk more about your salary tomorrow, but the position comes with a six-figure signing bonus, which,\" the man says as he peers past you into your home with no electricity, \"I assume is more than you're making at the moment. I'm sorry if I came off the wrong way. How about it, can we count on you?\"\n\n0: Say nothing.\n1: \"I'm in.\"\n2: \"I'm out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I'm in,\" you say to the man.\n\n\"Perrr-r-r-r,\" the man says, sounding like a bad robot impersonation. The man's suit, in combination with the hot summer sun, has caused him to begin sweating. Is that silver sweat? Or is the guy wearing makeup? Something's definitely not right with this dude. \"Perfect,\" the man manages to say on his second attempt. The man proceeds to muster up the weirdest looking smile you have ever seen -- it's like the guy learned how to smile by looking at pictures of people smiling poorly. \"We look forward to seeing you tomorrow.\"\n\nAs you extend your hand in an attempt to shake hands with Captain Creepazoid, he places a business card into it. \"The address is on the card.\"\n\nYou look down and see the business card in your hand. When you look up again, you see the man has vanished.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the card", "response": "With black letters printed on an off-white card stock, the business card is as stark as it is bold. \"HANGAR 22. 8062 ELM STREET.\" (And as your grandpa once told you, \"Every town has an Elm Street.\" Wait, that wasn't your grandpa, that was Freddy Krueger from Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "What do you want to lock the front door with?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Like the inside of your house, the front porch is small and cozy. When you first moved in you bought a small chair and placed it on the porch with dreams of spending your evenings drinking beer and enjoying the scenery. You ran out of money for beer months ago, and the scenery consists of the dog across the street that continually barks and neighborhood kids that give you the finger everytime they see you. These days the porch serves as a place to put your chair and mount your mailbox. Your driveway is EAST from here; your house is back to the SOUTH.\n\nYour front door is closed, which prevents people outside from coming in, and vice versa (it's called physics).\n\nYou can also see a mailbox (in which are some bills) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close mailbox", "response": "You close the mailbox.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chair", "response": "Unlike yourself, the chair appears able to support things. The seat is covered in a thin layer of dust and cobwebs, but it's in pretty good shape compared to most of the furniture inside your house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the chair", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Your driveway is where you park your car. It's as interesting as a giant flat slab of concrete can be. To the WEST is your front porch.\n\nYou can see an El Camino here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at El Camino", "response": "She's a beauty, isn't she? You still refer to her as the Brown Bomber (in reference to the car's original color), but after thirty hard years of service it's getting more and more difficult to determine where the paint ends and the rust begins. The inside of your El Camino is almost as beautiful as the outside -- which is to say, \"not very\". Randomly scattered throughout the car are more stains, splotches, and sticky spots than the floor of your average adult theater. The ignition juts slightly from the steering column; someone busted the ignition for you while attempting to steal the car, and it now turns freely without a key.\n\nShe burns more fluids than rubber these days, but she's paid for and she still runs. Usually.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive", "response": "What, drive around aimlessly? Once inside your car, talk to your GPS and pick a destination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the GPS", "response": "The GPS is a Sir Guide-A-Lot 350 model -- apparently, a promotional item bundled with Sir Mix-A-Lot's last album, \"Where My Homies At?\". While the GPS is slow, clunky, and rarely accurate, by far its most annoying feature is the fact that it constantly shouts at you in Sir Mix-A-Lot's voice. (Whoever authorized the combination of a has-been rapper's voice with a barely functional GPS didn't do much in the way of market research.) The only reason you haven't pawned it yet is that \"350\" denotes not only the model, but also its current value. In pesos. You found the device abandoned in a Taco Flaco bathroom, and each time you use the thing you are convinced that its former owner left it there intentionally. The unit's only redeeming value is its voice recognition feature. You can simply TALK TO GPS and it gives you directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the gps", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Location: HOME\"\n2: \"Location: TACO FLACO\"\n3: \"Location: HANGAR 22.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "What do you want to say to the GPS?\n\n\"BUTTERMILK BISCUITS, HEW HEWWWWW!\" says Sir Guide-A-Lot. (Jesus, you hate that thing.) After a moment or two of processing, the GPS finishes its calculations, and off you go. The unit calculates a path that leads you through several back alleys you've never seen before and at least one third-world country. Stupid piece of junk. Despite Sir Guide-A-Lot's best effort at losing you, you finally arrive at ...\n\nEven as broke as you are, you can still eat like a king at Taco Flaco. You applied for a job here once but were told you were overqualified, what with your high school degree and all. (It all worked out for the best -- you wouldn't have had the stomach to club the baby chickens needed to make those little bite-sized burritos, anyway.) None of the employees are too bright, which is why your coupon scam continues to work. (For years now you've been handwriting your own \"ten tacos for a dollar\" coupons.) The staff is rude and the restaurant is dirty, but it's a fact that they make the best tacos in all the land. (And by \"the land\" I mean, \"within three miles of your house\".\n\nYou can see a Taco Flaco Drive-Thru Sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sign", "response": "Taco Flaco is known for a lot of things (the quality of their food, the rudeness of their employees, that time someone found a human foot inside their burrito ...), but menu diversity is not one of them. The restaurant's three menu choices have been hand painted on a giant piece of wood:\n\nCOMBO 1: Three Tacos, Cinnamon Chunks, Fiesta Surprise, Large Drink: $4.99\nCOMBO 2: Two Burritos (Chicken, Steak, or \"Surprise\"), Large \"Cabra Vomitar\" Shake: $4.99\nCOMBO 3: Nachos Gigantescos (Caliente and Libre de Enfermedad), Large Warm Milk: $4.99\n\nAttached to the bottom of the sign is a speaker. From it, you hear a sweet angelic voice say, \"Order. Now. Rapido, Pendejo ...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the voice", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Numero Uno, por favor.\"\n2: \"I'll have the number two, please.\"\n3: \"Number Three, to go.\"\n4: \"Ten tacos for a dollar, please.\"\n5: \"This is a robbery.\"\n6: \"I don't have any money. Whatcha got for free?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "6", "response": "What do you want to say to the Taco Flaco Drive-Thru Sign?\n\n\"I don't have any money. Whatcha got for free?\" you ask. After a moment of silence, the voice at the windows tells you to pull up.\n\nWorking the drive-thru window (as usual) is Gloria, the sexiest seniorita to ever don a Taco Flaco uniform. If anyone can make a polyester shirt with a poor drawing of a taco with arms, legs and a smile on it romantic, it's this girl. Her hair, her smile, her fake gold tooth ... there's just nothing about this girl that you don't adore.\n\nGloria slides the drive-thru window open and spits a loogie directly into your face.\n\n\"Thank you, come again,\" she says, closing the window. It would seem you chose ... poorly.\n\nYou are sitting inside your car at the end of the Taco Flaco drive-thru. All the other buildings you can see are vacant (it's not the best part of town). Other Taco Flaco drive-thru customers are behind you, honking their horns. It's time to use the GPS to get you out of this mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "What do you want to say to the Taco Flaco Drive-Thru Sign?\n\n\"This is a robbery,\" you say to the drive-thru speaker. \"When I get up to the window, I want all the money. In a BAG. With some TACOS. And a DRINK. WITH NO SPIT IN IT!\"\n\nAfter a few moments of silence, the voice asks you a question. \"Would you like to add three flautas for a dollar?\"\n\nIs this chick messing with you? Doesn't she know how crazy you are? You're about to rob a place you frequent regularly with no mask and nothing remotely resembling a weapon. YOU ARE EL GRINGO LOCO!\n\n\"Yeah, sure, I'll take the flautas,\" you say.\n\n\"Okay,\" the woman responds. \"Please drive around.\"\n\n\"Wow, that was pretty easy!\" you say to yourself. As you pull up to the drive-thru window, it slides open to reveal not a bag full of money, tacos, three flautas and a drink with no spit in it, but rather the business end of a shotgun.\n\nJust moments ago, you had tacos on the brain. Now, your brains are about to be splattered all over Taco Flaco. Sometimes, the jokes just write themselves. You chuckle nervously.\n\nAdios, El Gringo Loco. Click, Click, BOOM!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "What do you want to say to the Taco Flaco Drive-Thru Sign?\n\n\"Ten tacos for a dollar, please,\" you say with a smirk.\n\n\"Chu got a coupon for dat?\" asks the voice.\n\n0: Say nothing.\n1: \"I sure do.\"\n2: \"No.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "What do you want to say to the Taco Flaco Drive-Thru Sign?\n\n\"I sure do,\" you respond. From the speaker you hear a long sigh, followed by the words \"Pull around.\"\n\nStanding at the drive-thru window is Gloria, the hottest mamacita in all of Flaco land. Each time you see her you wish she were your age, but you would settle for \"legal\" (both in terms of age and citizenship).\n\nYou place the pathetic coupon and fist full of sticky change into Gloria's soft hand. In return, Gloria hands you ten delicious tacos. Score!\n\nYou are sitting inside your car at the end of the Taco Flaco drive-thru. All the other buildings you can see are vacant (it's not the best part of town). Other Taco Flaco drive-thru customers are behind you, honking their horns. It's time to use the GPS to get you out of this mess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to GPS", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Location: HOME\"\n2: \"Location: TACO FLACO\"\n3: \"Location: HANGAR 22.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "What do you want to say to the GPS?\n\"Home,\" you say to the GPS.\nSir Guide-A-Lot maps out the quickest route to your home. You follow it, and arrive safely.\n\nDriveway (in the El Camino)\nYour driveway is where you park your car. It's as interesting as a giant flat slab of concrete can be. To the WEST is your front porch.\n\nYou are inside your El Camino. Mounted to the dash with copious amounts of duct tape is your voice activated GPS. You can't find anything without it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat TACOS", "response": "You unwrap the first taco slowly, savoring the smell of the meat and the sound of the crinkling paper. You take a bite -- and another, and another. With the first taco shoved completely in your mouth, you unwrap the second. Like a kid on Christmas, you open each taco faster than the previous one. Teeth gnashing, you rip through the pile of tacos like a buzzsaw. Each taco is like a box of Cracker Jacks with a surprise inside (a fingernail here, a cigarette butt there), but you don't let that stop you. Before you know it all ten tacos have been consumed, leaving only a pile of wrappers behind. You. Feel. GREAT!\n\nAfter eating, all that's left in your hands is a big pile of wrappers. Say, you should put THOSE in the TRASH!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "You get out of the El Camino.\n\nYour driveway is where you park your car. It's as interesting as a giant flat slab of concrete can be. To the WEST is your front porch.\n\nYou can see an El Camino here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Like the inside of your house, the front porch is small and cozy. When you first moved in you bought a small chair and placed it on the porch with dreams of spending your evenings drinking beer and enjoying the scenery. You ran out of money for beer months ago, and the scenery consists of the dog across the street that continually barks and neighborhood kids that give you the finger everytime they see you. These days the porch serves as a place to put your chair and mount your mailbox. Your driveway is EAST from here; your house is back to the SOUTH.\n\nYour front door is closed, which prevents people outside from coming in, and vice versa (it's called physics).\n\nYou can also see a mailbox (which is closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the key", "response": "You open the lock with ease. I suppose if the computer thing falls through, you could always become a locksmith.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the front door with the house key", "response": "That's unlocked at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "While your living room isn't much to look at, you call it home. Back when you were working 80 hours a week, you had no time to fix the place up. Now that you have all the time in the world, you have no money. Even in hard times, you retain your sense of irony. Your ratty couch sits along one wall, facing your cheap (and empty) entertainment center. The front door of your home is to the NORTH. Your dining room lies WEST, and your bedroom is to the SOUTH.\n\nThe front door is open, potentially letting in heat, flies, and bill collectors.\n\nYou can also see a couch, an entertainment center and a coffee table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The word \"room\" is a bit of a misnomer; it's more of a nook, and a sparse one at that. In the middle of the room on top of a rug sits a small table and two chairs. On the wall is a small tack where you hang your house key. Your kitchen is to the SOUTH, and the living room is to the EAST.\n\nYou can see a trash can (which is empty) and a table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "What do you want to sit on top of?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the wrappers in the trash", "response": "(the trash can)\nWhat a good boy scout you are!\n\nYawn. It's about time to sleep, don't you think?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You close your eyes and, with a smile on your face for the first time in weeks, you drift off to sleep.\n\nIt's morning, you think. Confused, you look around and realize you must be at Hangar 22. While trying to remember how you got here, you hear a familiar voice.\n\n\"Hi Honey,\" the voice says. You turn around to see Gloria from Taco Flaco standing behind you. Honey? What in the world is going on here?\n\n\"I'm so glad you're home,\" she says. Home? As Gloria leans over to give you a kiss on the cheek, her moustache tickles your face. As you pull back you realize Gloria has become your mother -- well, her face has anyway. Recoiling, you see your mother now has the body of a chimpanzee. \"Get back here!\" you shout as your monkey mother begins climbing up some medical equipment. Just when you realize your mom is about to begin flinging poo at you, an alarm sounds! Wait, that sounds like ...\n\n... your alarm clock. You sit straight up in bed, turning off your alarm with one hand and checking your chest for any signs of monkey poo with the other. Jesus Christ, just what kind of meat has Taco Flaco been serving lately?\n\nCompared to your dream, the rest of your morning is surprisingly normal. Although you haven't done it in months, you fumble through your old morning routine of cleaning, grooming and dressing yourself. You look great, and you feel great.\n\nScooping up all the items you collected during yesterday's adventure (you never know what could come in handy on the first day of a new job!), you head outside. You feel like a new man. It's time to get to work!\n\nLike the inside of your house, the front porch is small and cozy. When you first moved in you bought a small chair and placed it on the porch with dreams of spending your evenings drinking beer and enjoying the scenery. You ran out of money for beer months ago, and the scenery consists of the dog across the street that continually barks and neighborhood kids that give you the finger everytime they see you. These days the porch serves as a place to put your chair and mount your mailbox. Your driveway is EAST from here; your house is back to the SOUTH.\n\nYour front door is closed, which prevents people outside from coming in, and vice versa (it's called physics).\n\nYou can also see a mailbox (which is closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na business card\na bag of Reese's Pieces\na candy bar\na coffee mug\na pen\na fish bowl\na burrito\na remote control", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look roughly like an out of work computer programmer ... which, coincidentally, is exactly what you are. Your clothes are baggier than normal, thanks to your mandatory recent \"low-food-intake\" diet. Years of sitting behind computer keyboards have given you lean fingers and a pot belly, but when push comes to shove, you clean up nice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the mailbox", "response": "You open the mailbox, revealing some bills.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bills", "response": "Bills, bills, and more bills. Most days, you don't even read them; by not opening them, you're hoping to claim \"plausible deniability\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The door is locked, and you seem to have lost your key! Go to work; you can figure this out later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Your driveway is where you park your car. It's as interesting as a giant flat slab of concrete can be. To the WEST is your front porch.\n\nYou can see an El Camino here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to GPS", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Location: HOME\"\n2: \"Location: TACO FLACO\"\n3: \"Location: HANGAR 22.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "What do you want to say to the GPS?\n\n\"LET'S GO, 'CUZ THE POSSE'S ON BROADWAY,\" says Sir Guide-A-Lot. You suspect Sir Guide-A-Lot secretly enjoys leading you around in circles, which would be funnier if the Brown Bomber didn't get such terrible gas mileage.\n\nYou pull up to what you assume is Hangar 22. Funny, you've been on this street before but never noticed this building. Maybe you just weren't looking for it.\n\nYou are sitting in your El Camino facing east, but a large metal cross-bar prevents you from continuing in that direction. Directly outside your driver side window is a guard shack. The shack sits on a small patch of grass which is mostly immaculate, save for a small pile of litter.\n\nYou can see a guard here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the guard", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Excuse me. Is this Hangar 22?\"\n2: \"Screw you, Copper!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "What do you want to say to the guard?\n\n\"Excuse me. Is this Hangar 22?\" you ask the guard.\n\n\"Depends,\" the guard says, approaching you. \"Do you have business here?\"\n\n0: Say nothing.\n1: \"I sure do. I work here now.\"\n2: \"Yes. I'm selling Girl Scout cookies.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "What do you want to say to the guard?\n\n\"I sure do. I work here now,\" you say to the guard.\n\nThe guard looks down at his clipboard.\n\n\"Sorry,\" the guard says. Nobody notified me about any new hires today. I'll have to radio HQ and see what's going on. Make yourself comfortable, this could take hours.\"\n\nYou hear an odd rumble from the El Camino's engine. Wait, that wasn't your engine. It was the guard's stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the litter", "response": "You recognize the pile of trash as discarded Taco Flaco wrappers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the burrito to the guard", "response": "\"Mmm, Mmm, MMM!\" says the guard as he sinks his teeth into the moldy burrito. \"Is this the new minty burrito?\" the guard asks, in reference to the burrito's greenish hue. It's true what they say: the way to a security guard's heart is his big fat stomach. \"Listen man,\" the guard says with mold on his teeth, \"this paperwork stuff can take forever, so I'm going to go ahead and buzz you in -- on your way home, stop by here and I'll have a permanent badge waiting for you. You can get a temporary badge from Mr. Mordant. First door on your left as you walk in.\"\n\nThe guard presses a button and the giant bar blocking your path begins to lift. You pull forward and park in the first available spot.\n\n\"Thanks again for the grub,\" says the guard as you pass by.\n\nYou are standing in the parking lot of Hangar 22. Multiple cars, including yours, are parked here. Several security cameras sit high above the parking lot, pointed at your face. A tall, black fence runs along the NORTH and SOUTH ends of the parking lot. The guard shack lies behind you to the WEST. To your EAST is a giant hangar. The side of the hangar facing you has no windows and a single red door.\n\nYou can see some cameras, some cars and an El Camino here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at cameras", "response": "Some of the cameras are out in the open. Others are partially concealed. You suspect there are even more, well-hidden ones. All of the you can see are pointed directly at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cars", "response": "The cars belong to other employees. You feel guilty peering into them with so many security cameras pointed at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the red door", "response": "The door is off to the EAST. Painted on the door, faded but still readable, are the numbers \"22\". You're pretty sure that's the door the guard was referring to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "As you approach the red door, you hear a buzzing sound. You open the door and enter Hangar 22.\n\nYou are standing at the west end of a long hallway. The walls, ceiling, and other doors are all various shades of gray. Immediately to your WEST is the red door you entered through. The door to your NORTH has a small plaque that reads \"IN PROCESSING\". The door to your SOUTH has a small plaque that reads \"INTERROGATION\". The hallway continues EAST from here. You can see more doors in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "As you reach down toward the handle, the door flies open and you find yourself standing face to face with the same creepy guy that came to your house yesterday. Recognizing you, the man makes a facial expression resembling a smile.\n\n\"Oh! Hello there,\" the man says. \"Welcome to Hangar 22!\" The man glances at your shirt and, realizing you aren't wearing an access badge, reaches into his pocket and pulls out a \"New Employee\" sticker. While mumbling something about the guards at the guard gate, he applies the sticker to your shirt and says, \"That'll do for now.\"\n\nFrom the INTERROGATION ROOM, you can hear loud shouting. \"If you'll excuse me I've ... had something come up,\" he says, his black eyes shifting to the door behind you. \"I'll be back as soon as I can.\"\n\nWith that, the man pushes past you and slips into the INTERROGATION ROOM, leaving the door to the IN PROCESSING ajar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the \"In Processing\" room, a place where (you assume) new employees are processed. A military-grade metal desk sits on one side of the room. The desk is covered with papers and various odds and ends. Multiple maps adorn the walls. Directly behind the desk hangs a large portrait.\n\nYou can see a desk here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "The desk is solid metal and weighs a ton. Scattered papers cover the top of the desk. The backside of the desk contains multiple drawers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the papers", "response": "It would take you months to read all of them. Quickly skimming through the piles, you notice most of them appear to be official government documents. The piece of paper on top contains an interesting handwritten note. \"TO DO,\" the note reads. \"01: Meet Glitzenbork for sushi after work. 02: Pick up dry cleaning. 03: Get new \"recruits\" to the organ-harvesting chamber, stat.\"\n\nWell well well, sounds like something fishy's going on around here. Or maybe that's just the sushi.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the drawers", "response": "All but one of the desk's drawers are locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "In the unlocked desk drawer you spot a keycard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the portrait", "response": "The painting hanging directly behind the desk has three men in it. The man on the left is the creepy creepazoid you just ran into. In fellow in the middle is a rough-looking military man (the flat top gives it away). The \"thing\" on the right appears to have the head of a giant fly, and giant, hairy arms with pinchers for hands. The fly-man's right pincher is up behind the military man's head, making bunny ears. Whoever painted the portrait obviously had a good sense of humor. Must've been an expensive gag gift.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the keycard", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the keycard", "response": "The keycard is the same size as a credit card, and has a microchip visibly embedded in it. The card is black; across the back, the card reads \"ALL ACCESS\" in red letters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the maps", "response": "Various interstellar maps cover the walls. You spend a moment trying to find The Big Dipper, but can't seem to locate it. Multiple stars and planets are marked and named, but you don't recognize any of them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch yourself", "response": "If you think that'll help.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sticker", "response": "The green, triangular sticker clearly identifies you as a new employee. And in case anyone forgets, the sticker has the words \"NEW EMPLOYEE\" printed across it in bold, black letters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are standing at the west end of a long hallway. All the walls, ceiling, and other doors have been painted a drab shade of gray, save for the red door you entered through, which is directly to your WEST. The door to your NORTH, which is now open, has a small plaque that reads \"IN PROCESSING\". The door to your SOUTH has a small plaque that reads \"INTERROGATION\". The hallway continues EAST from here. You can see more doors in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You write on the sticker", "response": "It's not that you COULDN'T, but more that you don't NEED to ...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are standing in a hallway. The walls, ceiling, and doors are all various shades of gray. To your NORTH is a door marked \"ASTRONAUT LOUNGE\". To your SOUTH is a door marked \"OBSERVATION\". The hallway leads both EAST and WEST, where you can see more doors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the fish bowl", "response": "You put on the fish bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The Astronaut Lounge resembles a cafeteria from the 1950s. The floor is a little whiter than the walls, but neither one is particularly white. Along one wall sits a vending machine and a refrigerator, and a television sits in the corner. Scattered around the room are tables and chairs of various shapes, sizes and colors. An astronaut sits at one of the tables.\n\nYou can see a vending machine, a refrigerator (which is closed), an astronaut, some tables (on which is a pair of gloves) and a television here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vending machine", "response": "The vending machine is stocked with various flavors of freeze-dried Astronaut Ice Cream. It's also filled with cobwebs, and doesn't appear to have worked in quite some time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the refrigerator", "response": "Inside the fridge you discover dozens of bottles of Tang.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the refrigerator", "response": "The refrigerator is old school and industrial strength. If you ever find yourself next to an atomic bomb that's about to go off, this is the refrigerator you want to take shelter in. There is a handwritten note taped to the front of the fridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "\"STOP TAKING OTHER PEOPLE'S STUFF. I MEAN IT.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Tang", "response": "Tang, the official drink of NASA and astronauts worldwide. Each bottle of Tang has someone's name on it. \"Alan\", \"Pootie\", \"Wu\", and so on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Astronaut", "response": "He's an astronaut, alright.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tv", "response": "The television is the only item in the room younger than you.\nThe television is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on tv", "response": "\"I wish,\" laments the astronaut. \"The buttons are broken and someone lost the remote.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tables", "response": "The tables vary in height and size. At one table sits an astronaut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the remote", "response": "If buttons are any measurement of manhood, owning this remote makes you a stud among studs. Back in the day, this bad mamma-jamma controlled everything you owned: your television, your DVD player, your cable box, your stereo, your coffee pot, and sometimes even your neighbor's automatic garage door. Over the past few months you've sold everything the remote used to control, but you keep the remote as a reminder of happier times.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the remote", "response": "Try USE REMOTE.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the remote", "response": "Using your remote control, you flip on the television. Immediately, the astronaut's attention turns from you to the television.\n\n\"Oh boy, Lost in Space -- my favorite!\", he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gloves", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gloves", "response": "The gloves are big and white, like your mama. They look like something either an astronaut or Mickey Mouse would wear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Astronaut", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Howdy.\"\n2: \"Why so sad?\"\n3: \"Nice gloves.\"\n4: \"Ask about Tang and Ice Cream.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "What do you want to say to the astronaut?\n\n\"Nice gloves,\" you say to the astronaut.\n\n\"Government issue,\" he replies. \"They're pretty hard to come by. You'll definitely need a pair before entering the hangar. They keep out the radiation, and keep your jazz hands warm,\" he says, saving his hands around in the air all silly-like for a moment.\n\n0: Say nothing.\n1: \"What's in the hangar?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "What do you want to say to the astronaut?\n\nThe astronaut rolls his eyes. \"They don't do much of an in briefing here anymore, do they? The hangar is where the UFO is parked. It's also where astronauts take off from. There's all kinds of radiation in there, so they won't let you in unless you're wearing a spacesuit, gloves, and a helmet.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Astronaut", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Howdy.\"\n2: \"Why so sad?\"\n3: \"Ask about Tang and Ice Cream.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "What do you want to say to the astronaut?\n\n\"They're just props,\" he says. \"Makes it look more like a real lounge.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Astronaut", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Howdy.\"\n2: \"Why so sad?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "What do you want to say to the astronaut?\n\n\"Not sad ... bored,\" says the astronaut. \"Just waiting for the next shuttle to launch. I used to sit in here and watch television while waiting but someone lost the remote.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Astronaut", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Howdy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "What do you want to say to the astronaut?\n\n\"Howdy,\" you say to the astronaut. The man, obviously bored and tired, nods in your general direction.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The Astronaut Lounge resembles a cafeteria from the 1950s. The floor is a little whiter than the walls, but neither one is particularly white. Along one wall sits a vending machine and a refrigerator, and a television sits in the corner. Scattered around the room are tables and chairs of various shapes, sizes and colors. An astronaut sits at one of the tables.\n\nYou can see a vending machine, a refrigerator (in which is a cans of Tang), an astronaut, some tables and a television here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are standing in a hallway. The walls, ceiling, and doors are all various shades of gray. To your NORTH is a door marked \"ASTRONAUT LOUNGE\". To your SOUTH is a door marked \"OBSERVATION\". The hallway leads both EAST and WEST, where you can see more doors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "True to its name, the Observation Room has a long window that allows people in this room to view what is happening in the Interrogation Room.\n\nYou can see a window, a table and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The one-way window allows people in the Observation Room to see what's happening in the Interrogation Room, but not vice versa. (Thus, \"one-way\".) Through the window, you can see clearly see two people interrogating a third. One of the interrogators is \"The Creep\". The other is a solidly-built military man.\n\nThe third man, you quickly realize, is not a man at all. He looks more like a cross between an octopus and supreme pizza.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Creep", "response": "The Man in Black in leaning up against the door. At first it looks like he's trying to keep something out, although you quickly realize he's probably trying to keep the giant octopus pizza in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine military", "response": "The military man has a crew cut and muscles on his muscles. Veins bulge from his neck as he shakes his fist in the face of the giant octopus pizza. At least you think that's its face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Pizza", "response": "The giant Octopus Pizza is waving its tentacles around in a threatening manner, leaving slimy hints of itself all over the walls. The giant Octopus Pizza makes a loud, horrible sound, like a cross between a someone being strangled, and Dane Cook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "The table has four legs and a table top. It's made of metal. By the rusty rings on the surface, you suspect whoever usually sits here doesn't use a coaster.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chair", "response": "It doesn't look particularly comfortable. Based on the direction it's facing, you assume people sit in the chair at the table and watch interrogations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are standing in a hallway. The walls, ceiling, and doors are all various shades of gray. A small sign on the door to your NORTH reads \"DRESSING ROOM\". A small sign on the door to your SOUTH reads \"TOP SECRET\". The hallway leads both EAST and WEST. To the EAST, the hallway gets very dark, very quickly. On the wall hangs what appears to be an alarm system, complete with a blinking red light and some text displayed on a small screen.\n\nYou can see an alarm system here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the alarm system", "response": "Using the internationally recognized language of a red flashing light, the alarm indicates to you that you should probably not walk past it. Any possible misunderstanding of the flashing red light is confirmed by text on a small LCD screen that reads, \"ALARM is currently ARMED\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use remote", "response": "The remote doesn't appear to affect anything ... here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are standing in the dressing room, a room where (and again, you're assuming) people dress and undress. Overall, the room is pretty drab. A metal locker leans against the wall. A few benches line the floor.\n\nYou can see some benches and a metal locker (which is closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine benches", "response": "There are several benches here in the dressing room. There's no real mystery to them; people sit on them while dressing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the locker", "response": "You open the metal locker, revealing a spacesuit, a t-shirt, a costume and some overalls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the costume", "response": "The costume looks similar to the astronaut spacesuit, except it has four arm sleeves. Man, Christmas parties around his place must be a hoot, what with all the funny costumes such as this one!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spacesuit", "response": "The spacesuit looks just like the ones astronauts wear, based on your knowledge of such things, most of which came from movies and cartoons.It's white and fluffy, like the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man, and approximately your size. (The spacesuit, not the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man!) There's a name tag sewn to the front: \"Rodzinski\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shirt", "response": "It's a white t-shirt with printing on the front that reads, \"I came all the way from Mzzrxklpletic-405 and all I got was this stupid t-shirt.\" The shirt's tag states it is a 50/50 blend of cotton and blrbyxipunkonium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the overalls", "response": "The overalls are covered in dry blood, and appear to have been made for someone about eight-foot-three. Strange things are afoot at the local Hangar 22.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear the spacesuit", "response": "(first taking the spacesuit)\nYou put on the spacesuit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "You know, while wearing the gloves, spacesuit, and fish bowl, you could pass for an astronaut ...You put on the pair of gloves.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "You are standing in the dressing room, a room where (and again, you're assuming) people dress and undress. Overall, the room is pretty drab. A metal locker leans against the wall. A few benches line the floor.\n\nYou can see some benches and a metal locker (in which are a t-shirt, a costume and some overalls) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the bowl", "response": "You're already wearing that!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all from the locker", "response": "t-shirt: Removed.\ncostume: Removed.\noveralls: Removed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the costume", "response": "Unless you've grown a couple of arms since you left the house this morning, I don't think it'll fit", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the overalls", "response": "You would need to spend four-to-six weeks being stretched on a torturous medieval device to be tall enough to wear these overalls. And even if you did, they'd still be covered in someone else's dried blood.\n\nYou know, the more I think about it, the fact that you would even WANT to wear someone else's blood-covered overalls raises some flags. Assuming you don't get killed on your first day of work, you might want to see if your new job benefits include a psychological evaluation.\n\nReally? Giant bloody overalls?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are standing in a hallway. The walls, ceiling, and doors are all various shades of gray. A small sign on the door to your NORTH reads \"DRESSING ROOM\". A small sign on the door to your SOUTH reads \"TOP SECRET\". The hallway leads both EAST and WEST. To the EAST, the hallway gets very dark, very quickly. On the wall hangs what appears to be an alarm system, complete with a blinking red light and some text displayed on a small screen.\n\nYou can see an alarm system here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are standing in the entrance to a large hangar. The room is so large and the lights are so dim that your eyes have a difficult time adjusting. Next to the door is a small table.\n\nJust past the table is a cage. Off in the distance, you can make out the shape of a UFO.\n\nYou can see a cage (which is closed) (in which is an alien) and a table (on which is a flower pot) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "It's too dark to make out too many details, but from what you can tell it looks like all the other tables you've seen thus far.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "The cage resembles a jail cell. The bars glow blue, and appear to be electrified. A lock prevents the cage door from opening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the alien", "response": "The alien looks like every alien you've ever seen on television. He's short and gray, with big black eyes and a bigger head.\n\nThe alien looks quite sad. Apparently it's no fun, being an illegal alie...un.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine pot", "response": "In an attempt to freshen up the place, someone brought a flower pot with a few flowers in it. Unfortunately, no one has watered the flowers in quite some time. They appear sad and wilted like your grandpa.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at UFO", "response": "It's tough to make out the details in the low light, but you can clearly discern the outline of a classic saucer-shaped UFO. A framework has been constructed around the UFO. Several workers appear to be looking at and/or working on the craft.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the alien", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"Who ... ARE you?\"\n2: \"If I let you out, will you grant me a wish?\"\n3: \"Where did you come from?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "What do you want to say to the alien?\n\n\"Sup,\" says the alien, in a sullen voice. \"I'm Arfefidedmlioonl, but everybody calls me Arf. I'd shake your hand, but ...\". Arf motions toward the electrified cage. \"I hope you're here to rescue me, because they're going to kill both of us.\n\n0: Say nothing.\n1: \"What do you mean, kill both of us?\"\n2: \"Kill us? That's nonsense!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "What do you want to say to the alien?\n\n\"Despite the fact that I zoomed through space, time, and multiple dimensions to get to this planet, apparently my species, most unfortunately, tastes like sushi. I don't know what your story is yet, but based on the fact that you're wearing a fishbowl for a helmet, I'll bet it's a good one.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the alien", "response": "0: Say nothing.\n1: \"If I let you out, will you grant me a wish?\"\n2: \"Where did you come from?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "What do you want to say to the alien?\n\n\"Listen bro -- you get me out of here, we'll go get some coffee, rap, compare war stories, whatever. You can write a tell-all book and sell a million copies for all I care.. Right now, we need to get out of here!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na flower pot\nsome overalls\na costume\na t-shirt\na spacesuit (being worn)\na pair of gloves (being worn)\na keycard\na new employee sticker\na business card\na bag of Reese's Pieces\na candy bar\na coffee mug\na pen\na fish bowl (being worn)\na remote control", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Reese 's pieces tothe alienn", "response": "You toss the candy into the cage. The alien lets out a small sigh. \"I don't want to sound ungrateful but ... eh, you know, it's a little racist. I mean, if I looked like a leprechaun would you have me dance a little jig? No, I mean ... you know, I get it and all, and thanks, but ... man, if it's all the same to you, I'd love some real food. Actually every time I come to this planet, I usually have tacos.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use remote", "response": "My goodness, is there anything this remote won't do? With the push of a button, the cage door suddenly springs open. The small alien leaps out of the cage and lands directly in front of you. \"I'm free!\" he shouts loudly, attracting the attention of the workers off in the distance. Uh oh. It's time to get out of here, and fast!\n\nArf is dragging you by the arm. \"Let's go!\" he cries.\n\n\"Hey!\" yells one of the workers. \"Arfefidedmlioonl is out of his cage ... and that guy's wearing a fishbowl! Let's get 'em!\" The crew of workers quickly transforms into an angry mob. The workers are about 30 feet away from you, and running toward you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lock", "response": "The lock appears to be electronic in nature. You can't find a spot to put a key, even if you had one. Which you don't.\n\nArf is dragging you by the arm. \"Let's go!\" he cries.\n\nThe mob is about 20' feet away, and they look mean (they're mean, they're mean, you know what I mean?)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are standing in the entrance to a large hangar. The room is so large and the lights are so dim that your eyes have a difficult time adjusting. Next to the door is a small table.\n\nJust past the table is a cage. Off in the distance, you can make out the shape of a UFO.\n\nYou can see Arf, a cage (which is empty) and a table here.\n\n\"However you got here, we should do that, but in reverse!\" says Arf.\n\nThe mob is about 20' feet away, and they look mean (they're mean, they're mean, you know what I mean?)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the flower to Arf", "response": "Arf doesn't seem interested.\n\nArf is dragging you by the arm. \"Let's go!\" he cries.\n\nThe workers are approximately 10' away now, close enough to see that they mean serious business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nArf is freaking out. \"Let's get out of here!\"\n\nThe workers are approximately 10' away now, close enough to see that they mean serious business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are standing in a hallway. The walls, ceiling, and doors are all various shades of gray. A small sign on the door to your NORTH reads \"DRESSING ROOM\". A small sign on the door to your SOUTH reads \"TOP SECRET\". The hallway leads both EAST and WEST. To the EAST, the hallway gets very dark, very quickly. On the wall hangs what appears to be an alarm system, complete with a blinking red light and some text displayed on a small screen.\n\nYou can see an alarm system here.\n\n\"I'm gray, I'm juicy, and don't want to be sushi! Let's go!\" says Arf.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are standing in the entrance to a large hangar. The room is so large and the lights are so dim that your eyes have a difficult time adjusting. Next to the door is a small table.\n\nJust past the table is a cage. Off in the distance, you can make out the shape of a UFO.\n\nYou can see Arf, a cage (which is empty) and a table here.\n\nArf is freaking out. \"Let's get out of here!\"\n\nThe workers are approximately 10' away now, close enough to see that they mean serious business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Reese's at the workers", "response": "Futile.\n\nArf is freaking out. \"Let's get out of here!\"\n\nWhat part about running did you not understand??\n\nI'm not really sure what you expected to happen. As the crowd reaches you, several members of the mob shove you the ground. Looking up you see a bearded man, about your size, with a giant wrench raised above his head. The man squints his eyes together and, noticing the nametag on your spacesuit, asks, \"Why exactly are you wearing my suit?\"\n\n\"This cannot possibly end well,\" you think to yourself. The giant wrench in Rodzinski's hand agrees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Reese's at the floor", "response": "Futile.\n\n\"I'm gray, I'm juicy, and don't want to be sushi! Let's go!\" says Arf.\n\nWhat part about running did you not understand??\n\nI'm not really sure what you expected to happen. As the crowd reaches you, several members of the mob shove you the ground. Looking up you see a bearded man, about your size, with a giant wrench raised above his head. The man squints his eyes together and, noticing the nametag on your spacesuit, asks, \"Why exactly are you wearing my suit?\"\n\n\"This cannot possibly end well,\" you think to yourself. The giant wrench in Rodzinski's hand agrees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are standing in a hallway. The walls, ceiling, and doors are all various shades of gray. A small sign on the door to your NORTH reads \"DRESSING ROOM\". A small sign on the door to your SOUTH reads \"TOP SECRET\". The hallway leads both EAST and WEST. To the EAST, the hallway gets very dark, very quickly. On the wall hangs what appears to be an alarm system, complete with a blinking red light and some text displayed on a small screen.\n\nYou can see an alarm system here.\n\nArf is freaking out. \"Let's get out of here!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You should be moving away from danger at this point, not towards it.\n\nArf is dragging you by the arm. \"Let's go!\" he cries.\n\nWhat part about escaping did you not understand??\n\nWhile standing around in the hallway, the door to the hallway bursts open. Before you have time to react, the crowd shoves you the ground. Looking up you see a bearded man, about your size, with a giant wrench raised above his head. The man squints his eyes together and, noticing the nametag on your spacesuit, asks, \"Why exactly are you wearing my suit?\"\n\n\"This cannot possibly end well,\" you think to yourself. The giant wrench in Rodzinski's hand agrees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are standing in a hallway. The walls, ceiling, and doors are all various shades of gray. To your NORTH is a door marked \"ASTRONAUT LOUNGE\". To your SOUTH is a door marked \"OBSERVATION\". The hallway leads both EAST and WEST, where you can see more doors.\n\n\"However you got here, we should do that, but in reverse!\" says Arf.\n\nThe angry workers are in the hallway, headed your direction!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are standing at the west end of a long hallway. All the walls, ceiling, and other doors have been painted a drab shade of gray, save for the red door you entered through, which is directly to your WEST. The door to your NORTH, which is now open, has a small plaque that reads \"IN PROCESSING\". The door to your SOUTH has a small plaque that reads \"INTERROGATION\". The hallway continues EAST from here. You can see more doors in that direction.\n\nArf is freaking out. \"Let's get out of here!\"\n\nThe mob is gaining on you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Still running at full speed, you plow into door at the end of the hallway. \"There!\" you shout, pointing at your El Camino in the parking lot.\n\n\"You came here in that thing?\" asks Arf, running along side you. \"You're braver than I thought!\"\n\nAs the two of you jump into your trusty ride the mob begins to pour out of the building, waving wrenches and hammers and pitchforks in the air. As your brain pauses for a moment to wonder why astronauts and government officials would have pitchforks at their disposal, Arf takes over. The El Camino's engine roars to life, and its tires squeal as the car spins around in a 180 before lurching toward the guard shack and row of tire spikes.\n\n\"I got this,\" says Arf, and with that the El Camino begins to lift up off the ground, sailing up and over the row of tire-shredding spike strips. (It should be noted that on any other day, there would have been an armed security guard standing inside the guard shack ready to shoot you. On this particular day however, that guard is sitting in a Porta-Potty one hundred yards away, wondering why on earth he decided to accept and eat a moldy burrito from a complete stranger.)\n\nAs the car continues to rise, you notice the crowd doesn't look so menacing from up here. \"We made it,\" you say to yourself. \"We made it!\"\n\n\"Yep, we made it,\" confirms Arf. After a brief, uncomfortable moment of silence, you notice Arf looking at you. \"And now, it's time to eat,\" he says, salivating ...\n\n\"Know any good taco stands?\" he asks.\n\nA few moments later the El Camino touches down in the Taco Flaco drive-thru. \"This place has the best tacos in town,\" you say. The staff of Taco Flaco begins gathering at the window, looking out at the two of you.\n\n\"Ah jeez man, let's go,\" says Arf. You assure him that it's cool and that these are good people, but Arf continues to slump down in his seat. It is then that you hear a voice, an angelic voice you've known for years.\n\n\"Arfie? Arfie, is that you in there?\" says Gloria from the drive-thru window. \"Oh Arfie! I just KNEW you would come back!\" Gloria climbs out the drive-thru window, pregnant as ever, with a suitcase in her hand. \"I TOLD you,\" she shouts back at the workers still standing in the drive-thru window. \"I TOLD you my baby daddy would come back!\"\n\n\"Wait ...\" you say. \"You ... and HER?\" you ask Arf in disbelief.\n\n\"What can I say,\" he says, shrugging his shoulders. \"Chicks love a dude with a UFO.\"\n\n\"Oh, Arfie baby\" says Gloria as she climbs into the passenger seat, forcing Arf to scoot closer to you. \"Heeeeey, Glo-bean,\" he says, faking a little gray smile. Gloria begins kissing Arf on the cheek. \"Didja miss me? Didja? Didja? Oh, it's so good to see you! Finally, we can settle down! Just me, you, Arfie junior, and ... wait, how do you know the stupid coupon guy?\" she says, looking at you. \"And why is he wearing a goldfish bowl on his head?\"\n\n\"It's a long story,\" says Arf as the front end of the El Camino begins to lift up off the ground. \"Say, is that a Sir Guide-A-Lot 350 GPS? I have one just like it in my ship! Sir Guide-A-Lot?\" says Arf.\n\n\"Yo, yo, yo,\" says Sir Guide-A-Lot 350.\n\n\"Take us to Mzzrxklpletic-405, please.\"\n\n\"Aw yeah, BABY GOT BACK!\" responds Sir Guide-A-Lot.\n\nYou hand Arf the \"World's Greatest Dad\" mug. \"I think this belongs to you, bro,\" you say.\n\nAnd with that, the El Camino, with you behind the wheel, Gloria using your rear view mirror to put on lipstick, and Arf uncomfortably smooshed between the two of you, takes off like a rocket into the sky. Next Stop: Mzzrxklpletic-405 ...", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Surreal", "Slice of Life" ]

[ "built-in hints", "first person", "gender-neutral protagonist", "slice of life", "surreal" ]

[ 0, 2, 2, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "HELP.\n\nYou blink, confused.\nA filtered sun has just woken you from a pleasant slumber. Judging by the strength of the light, it seems to be much later than you had intended on getting up. You recall that you've just spent the night at Grandma's house, before rolling out of bed. You notice that a few of your things seem to be missing, including your alarm clock.\n\nA decently sized bedroom on the second floor of Grandma's house. The room is sparesly decorated, and you feel a dull carpet underfoot. A door leads out to the northwest.\n\nYou can see a full size bed, a sweater, and a side table (on which are a note and a surprisingly empty spot) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the note", "response": "\"I thought I'd let you sleep in today! When you're ready meet me outside on the patio - I need some help with the yard.\nLove, Grandma\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the spot", "response": "You could have sworn that you left your glasses here last night, but now you aren't so sure. Did you even bring them to her house?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sweater", "response": "She's always trying to make you take her old things.\n\nYou hear the door reluctantly shift in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "A stubborn wooden paneled door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sweater", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou can't see very well without your glasses…", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear sweater", "response": "You pull the scratchy woolen jumper over your head.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A decently sized bedroom on the second floor of Grandma's house. The room is sparesly decorated, and you feel a dull carpet underfoot. A door leads out to the northwest.\n\nYou can see a full size bed and a side table (on which are a note and\na surprisingly empty spot) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the spot", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the carpet", "response": "It must have been supple once, but the years have eroded this rug down to a thin floor covering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "You open the bedroom door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "It is lost in its own contentment, and doesn't notice you as it bobs from side to side, humming quietly.\n\nOn the side table is a note.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the table about the glasses", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You are in a dimly lit hall, with an odd pale rectangle on the wall. A stairway leads down to the Foyer. There are exits to the north (her bedroom), west (the bathroom), and southeast (the guest room).", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You are in a bright foyer. A stairway leads up and there are exits to the southwest (the living room) and south (the dining room). An ornate glass door leads out to the east.\n\nThe day has just begun but the table is already done with it. It drearily slumps in the corner.\n\nOn the accent table is a dustless space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "On the accent table is a dustless space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the space", "response": "You know that's where Grandma usually puts her keys when she's home, but now the spot is empty. She might have them with her, but if she's lost her keys all sorts of things could happen...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the glass door", "response": "The door sighs at your arrival and wonders if you will ever smell that green grass again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "A claustrophobic formal dining room, made smaller by its lack of windows. There are exits to the north (the foyer), west (the living room), and southwest (the kitchen). A door leads out to the south.\n\nIn the darkness looms a strange form. Perhaps it's the table?\n\nYou can see a covered plate of food here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the form", "response": "Before your eyes the dark wood table lightens, the boards swell, and space grows between them.\n\nA wide airy hall, filled with tables and benches made from wide pine boards. Grandma waits by your side, it looks like she wants to talk to you.\n\nYou can see tables and benches here.\n\nIt's been a long and fun week at camp, but now it's time\nto go home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Grandma", "response": "An old, frail woman who always seems to bubble with an excitement that's far younger than she is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about the camp", "response": "\"I love camp!\" you exclaim.\n\n\"I'm so happy you had fun! It's just too bad you wont be able to come back next year.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about the next year", "response": "\"Of course I'll come back here.\"\n\n\"Oh, I'm sorry dear… your camp is closing down at the end of\nthis summer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about the closing", "response": "\"…It's closing?\"\n\n\"I know this must be a difficulty for you, but we'll find a\nanother camp for you to go to.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about the time", "response": "\"I want to go to camp forever.\"\n\n\"We can definitely find another camp for you to go to next\nyear.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about the difficulty", "response": "\"It's closing.\"\n\n\"That's right dear.\"\n\nIt's closing. It's closing. It's closing.\nEverything softens. You feel fuzzy.\n\nA claustrophobic formal dining room, made smaller by its lack of windows. There are exits to the north (the foyer), west (the living room), and southwest (the kitchen). A door leads out to the south. A familiar scuffed table stands, dignified, at the center of the room.\n\nYou can see a covered plate of food here.\n\nDid you even bring your glasses here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the food", "response": "It appears to be a bagel.\n\nWhere could Grandma's keys be?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "Though scratched, the table retains its impressive presence.\n\nYou can't see very well without your glasses…", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the plate", "response": "Taken.\n\nWhere could those glasses be?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first opening the heavy wooden door)\nThe sable, paneled wood door is steadfast, adamant to follow protocol.\n\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Heaps of clutter cover both the counters and the floor and aged appliances are scattered upon every surface, though none appear very well used. A window to the west surveys the patio. There are exits to the north (the living room), northeast (the dining room) west (the sunroom). A plain door leads out to the east.\n\nYou can see an oven here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the oven", "response": "The oven refuses to open, adamant that you have more important things to be doing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clutter", "response": "Papers, dishes, and medicaion containers are scattered about the kitchen. You'd really love to organize it for her, but you'll need her permission first.\n\nYou're pretty worried about those glasses.\n\n\"What if there's something important in that clutter, and she\ncan't find it when she needs it?\" you wonder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kitchen", "response": "Through the window, you see Grandma swaying in her chair, most likely singing as she waits on the Patio. You should hurry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The most lived-in space in the house, the sunroom seems to have an\naura of comfort about it. The north and west walls are completely made of dirty glass, allowing tinted sunlight to fill the room. There is an exit to the east (the kitchen) and a windowed door leads out to the south.\n\nA glorious sun-beached rug naps in the center of the room.\n\nYou need to keep in mind that Grandma might not want the clutter cleaned...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rug", "response": "The pattern appears to move and swirl, growing brighter as it spirals.\n\nThe north and west walls are comprised of crystal clear glass,\nallowing sunlight to flood the room. A windowed door leads out to the south.\n\nYou can see Grandma, a tv, and your sister here.\n\nYou are sitting on the rug watching tv when you begin to smell something terrible. You're pretty sure that the source is your sister. You remember a joke from tv, maybe if you tell it\nGrandma will laugh?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "Grandma hasn't noticed the violent cartoon on the screen.\n\nThe tv is currently switched on.\n\nYou want to clean the mess, but that might ruin whatever system\nshe has.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sister", "response": "She is several years younger than you, but looks older.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "You take a deep breath and are struck by the smell of old people.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about joke", "response": "\"Did somebody just [ ] in here!?\" you joke.\n\nGrandma casts a glare at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about the glare", "response": "\"It was a joke! From tv!\" you stammer.\n\n\"We don't joke about that in this house,\" says Grandma.\n\nHow will Grandma ever find the things she needs in that mess?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about that", "response": "\"Why?\" you ask.\n\n\"It's something that we should all be taking with\nseriousness,\" Grandma replies.\n\nYou abruptly snap back out of your thoughts.\n\nThe most lived-in space in the house, the sunroom seems to have an\naura of comfort about it. The north and west walls are completely made of dirty glass, allowing tinted sunlight to fill the room. There is an exit to the east (the kitchen) and a windowed door leads out to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rug", "response": "You could get lost in the pattern that decorates the sleeping beast's back.\n\nDid you even bring your glasses here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pattern", "response": "You could get lost in the pattern that decorates the sleeping beast's back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "(first opening the front door)\n\"You know there's a story behind that pear tree. Go out and ask her about it, what are you waiting for?\"\n\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "North", "response": "You can see happy plastic furniture dotting the Patio. A particularly joyful chair is occupied by Grandma. She look up and waves at you.\n\nWhat if Grandma gets locked out without her keys?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the west window", "response": "Outside, a narrow patch of grass seperates the house from a row of trees. There is a stone birdbath plus an assortment of bird feeders.\n\nYou're concerned about those keys...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Heaps of clutter cover both the counters and the floor and aged appliances are scattered upon every surface, though none appear very well used. A window to the west surveys the patio. There are exits to the north (the living room), northeast (the dining room) west (the sunroom). A plain door leads out to the east.\n\nYou can see an oven here.\n\nYou need to keep in mind that Grandma might not want the clutter cleaned...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A solemn room intended for family gatherings. A window on the\nsouthwest wall overlooks the patio. There are exits to the northeast (the foyer), east (the dining room) and south (the kitchen).\n\nYou can see a piano (on which is a pile of sheet music) here.\n\nYou can't see very well without your glasses…", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the piano", "response": "The piano is ancient and cluttered, but the sound is immaculate. Over the years she's taught you several songs that are older than she is. You suddenly realize that you can't recall how to play any of them.\nYou resolve to ask Grandma about them the next time you see her.\n\nOn the piano is a pile of sheet music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the music", "response": "Yellowed pages with indecipherable notes scrawled upon them.\n\nremember them again?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "You see Grandma's back as she lounges in a chair on the Patio, waiting for you. You shouldn't delay her much longer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Play music", "response": "You can't play that!\n\nHow will Grandma ever find the things she needs in that mess?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the music", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "You are in a bright foyer. A stairway leads up and there are exits to the southwest (the living room) and south (the dining room). An ornate glass door leads out to the east.\n\nThe day has just begun but the table is already done with it. It drearily slumps in the corner.\n\nOn the accent table is a dustless space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You are in a dimly lit hall, with an odd pale rectangle on the wall. A stairway leads down to the Foyer. There are exits to the north (her bedroom), west (the bathroom), and southeast (the guest room).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in a messy, darkened bedroom. A dull light source seethes in the corner.\n\nYou can see Grandma's bed and a technicolor here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the source", "response": "The lone incandescent huffs as you notice that the lamp is lacking the correct number of bulbs. If you don't restore them, Grandma will\nlikely continue living in the gloom until she stumbles over something. You don't think she even has any extra lightbulbs, but you should keep an eye out anyways.\n\nYou're pretty worried about those glasses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "You remember how much she boasted when she got this proud mattress. \"Both sides of the bed can feel different! It's controlled by a number!\"\n\nIf you forget those songs, you might forget important memories\ntoo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the bed", "response": "You feel nothing unexpected.\n\nYou can't see very well without your glasses…\n\nDoes Grandma have her keys?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the technicolor", "response": "For something that is used daily, it has a surprisingly thick layer of dust coating the screen.\n\nThe technicolor is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the technicolor", "response": "You switch the technicolor on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "about a missing person.\n\nThe technicolor is currently switched on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "about a missing person.\n\nThe technicolor is currently switched on.\n\n\"Does Grandma even have extra lightbulbs?\" you wonder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the tv", "response": "You switch the technicolor off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are in a dimly lit hall, with an odd pale rectangle on the wall. A stairway leads down to the Foyer. There are exits to the north (her bedroom), west (the bathroom), and southeast (the guest room).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A dingy tiled bathroom with a sink and a commode. Next to the sink\nsits a cup filled with jittery toothbrushes. On top of the commode is\na fidgeting powder box. There is an exit to the east (the hall).\n\nSomething about the tiles catches your gaze.\n\n\"Does Grandma even have extra lightbulbs?\" you wonder.\n\n\"What if there's something important in that clutter, and she\ncan't find it when she needs it?\" you wonder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "A hexagonal metal container with three lion's legs supporting it, possibly an antique. It shifts uncomfortably beneath your gaze.\n\nYou feel bad for the remaining bulb. It must be so lonely without\na friend...\n\nhurt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "You open the powder box.\n\nWhere could Grandma's keys be?\n\nYou can't forget to ask Grandma about those songs...\n\nYou want to clean the mess, but that might ruin whatever system\nshe has.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the box", "response": "Inspecting the box, you see that some powder still remains caked at\nthe bottom.\n\nIf you forget those songs, you might forget important memories\ntoo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search box", "response": "Inspecting the box, you see that some powder still remains caked at\nthe bottom.\n\nWhere could Grandma's keys be?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the powder", "response": "Inspecting the box, you see that some powder still remains caked at\nthe bottom. It shifts uncomfortably beneath your gaze.\n\nDoes Grandma have her keys?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the powder", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.\n\nIt's not the songs that are imortant, it's the memories they\nhold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toothbrush", "response": "The toothbrushes buzz with excitement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sink", "response": "The counter has a white film over it and the basin is yellowed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the commode", "response": "It is old and worn-out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tiles", "response": "You see the scuffed dark yellow bathroom tiles transform into tall dry grass.\n\nTrimmed grass comes to a halt where the field rises to the south.\n\nYou can see Grandma here.\n\nIt's your birthday. You've spent the day playing with your dog, Griffin, who has had some sort of illness. After a short break\nyou've returned to the field, but now it's dark and you're having a hard time finding him. Grandma might know where he is, maybe\nyou should talk to her?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about finding him", "response": "\"Grandma, have you seen where Griffin went?\"\n\n\"No, but you know how he is, sometimes he just lays down in the\nfield. Maybe you should try looking for him?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandma about looking", "response": "\"Should I look anywhere else?\"\n\n\"No dear, he won't have gone very far. Go south into the hay, and try to CALL for him as you look.\"\n\n\"Ask Grandma about those songs, ask Grandma about those songs,\"\nyou remind yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are in a field of wildflowers, all alike. Tall dry grass\nsuffocates you to the east and west.\n\nYou can see a dense patch of grass here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call", "response": "Griffin?\n\nHow will Grandma ever find the things she needs in that mess?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the grass", "response": "(the dense patch of grass)\nYou eagerly push aside the hay only to find nothing within.\n\nYou want to clean the mess, but that might ruin whatever system\nshe has.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are in a field of wildflowers, all alike. Tall dry grass\nsuffocates you to the east and west.\n\nYou can see some soft earth and a pile of stones here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call", "response": "\"Here, Griffin!\"\n\nYou want to clean the mess, but that might ruin whatever system\nshe has.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stones", "response": "You peer behind the stones but only see more hay.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the earth", "response": "You inspect the dirt for prints, but the ground is undisturbed.\n\nGrandma fights her way through the grass with a tenacity like you've never known.\n\"There you are!\" she says. \"I just realized...I think I know where Giffin is, sweetie.\nI think he's left us.\"\n\n\"But he wouldn't run away.\"\n\n\"That's...not what I meant.\"\n\nThe grass closes in. You feel it on every side of your body. Your\nlungs breathe no air, only grass. You are drowning.\n\nA dingy tiled bathroom with a sink and a commode. Next to the sink\nsits a cup filled with jittery toothbrushes. On top of the commode is\na fidgeting powder box. There is an exit to the east (the hall).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell powder", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nIf you forget those songs, you might forget important memories\ntoo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na covered plate of food\na note\na surprisingly empty spot\na sweater (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spot", "response": "You could have sworn that you left your glasses here last night, but now you aren't so sure. Did you even bring them to her house?\n\nWhere could those glasses be?\n\nYou've got to remember to look for some lightbulbs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in a dimly lit hall, with an odd pale rectangle on the wall. A stairway leads down to the Foyer. There are exits to the north (her bedroom), west (the bathroom), and southeast (the guest room).\n\nYou want to clean the mess, but that might ruin whatever system\nshe has.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "A decently sized bedroom on the second floor of Grandma's house. The room is sparesly decorated, and you feel a dull carpet underfoot. A door leads out to the northwest.\n\nYou can see a full size bed and a side table here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the spot on the table", "response": "You put the surprisingly empty spot on the side table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You are in a dimly lit hall, with an odd pale rectangle on the wall. A stairway leads down to the Foyer. There are exits to the north (her bedroom), west (the bathroom), and southeast (the guest room).\n\n\"Ask Grandma about those songs, ask Grandma about those songs,\"\nyou remind yourself.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You are in a bright foyer. A stairway leads up and there are exits to the southwest (the living room) and south (the dining room). An ornate glass door leads out to the east.\n\nThe day has just begun but the table is already done with it. It drearily slumps in the corner.\n\nOn the accent table is a dustless space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "A solemn room intended for family gatherings. A window on the\nsouthwest wall overlooks the patio. There are exits to the northeast (the foyer), east (the dining room) and south (the kitchen).\n\nYou can see a piano (on which is a pile of sheet music) here.\n\nYou've got to remember to look for some lightbulbs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Heaps of clutter cover both the counters and the floor and aged appliances are scattered upon every surface, though none appear very well used. A window to the west surveys the patio. There are exits to the north (the living room), northeast (the dining room) west (the sunroom). A plain door leads out to the east.\n\nYou can see an oven here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The most lived-in space in the house, the sunroom seems to have an\naura of comfort about it. The north and west walls are completely made of dirty glass, allowing tinted sunlight to fill the room. There is an exit to the east (the kitchen) and a windowed door leads out to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the west window", "response": "Outside, a narrow patch of grass seperates the house from a row of trees. There is a stone birdbath plus an assortment of bird feeders.\n\nWhere could those glasses be?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the north window", "response": "You can see happy plastic furniture dotting the Patio. A particularly joyful chair is occupied by Grandma. She look up and waves at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the north window about the songs", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the north window", "response": "It seems to be locked.\n\nDid you even bring your glasses here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "(first opening the north wall)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the plate", "response": "It isn't something you can open.\n\nYou're concerned about those keys...\n\nYou can't forget to ask Grandma about those songs...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou can't see very well without your glasses…", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Heaps of clutter cover both the counters and the floor and aged appliances are scattered upon every surface, though none appear very well used. A window to the west surveys the patio. There are exits to the north (the living room), northeast (the dining room) west (the sunroom). A plain door leads out to the east.\n\nYou can see an oven here.\n\nYou're concerned about those keys...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the appliances", "response": "They are in a state of decrepitness that makes you think they've been here since she bought the house 60 years ago (and they probably have).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plain door", "response": "It thinks about the vibrant poppies outside. \"They're her favorite you know. If you could just get outside maybe you could bring her some.\"\n\nGrandma's room that the other one would be much happier.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "It thinks about the vibrant poppies outside. \"They're her favorite you know. If you could just get outside maybe you could bring her some.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the oven", "response": "The oven refuses to open, adamant that you have more important things to be doing.\n\nWhat if Grandma gets locked out without her keys?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean clutter", "response": "permission.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "A claustrophobic formal dining room, made smaller by its lack of windows. There are exits to the north (the foyer), west (the living room), and southwest (the kitchen). A door leads out to the south. A familiar scuffed table stands, dignified, at the center of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search table", "response": "There is nothing on the dining table.\n\nWhere could those glasses be?\n\nWhat if Grandma gets locked out without her keys?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "Though scratched, the table retains its impressive presence.\n\nYou need to keep in mind that Grandma might not want the clutter cleaned...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the table", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\nWhat if Grandma gets locked out without her keys?\n\nhurt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The sable, paneled wood door is steadfast, adamant to follow protocol.\n\nIt's not the songs that are imortant, it's the memories they\nhold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "The sable, paneled wood door is steadfast, adamant to follow protocol.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ornate door", "response": "The door sighs at your arrival and wonders if you will ever smell that green grass again.\n\nYou need to keep in mind that Grandma might not want the clutter cleaned...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(first opening the ornate glass door)\nThe door sighs at your arrival and wonders if you will ever smell that green grass again.\n\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the ornate glass door)\n\nExcited by your breakthrough, you burst through the door and run through the yard. You remember all of the things you wanted to ask her about. You turn the corner -\n\n\n\nBut Grandma's chair is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "\"That door is so headstrong! Give it some time and look around, it'll budge eventually!\" calls Grandma.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Espionage" ]

[ "colonialism", "espionage", "fictional nation", "IntroComp 2002", "Jungle", "pulpy", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 2, 2, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "The Green Coast,\nMinistry of Colonial Finance,\n11:04 PM,\nJune 12th, 1942.\n\n\"General Marchgrave's office is on the second floor of the Palace,\" says Helzog, \"overlooking the Gardens. He is in possession of a mask: black, smooth-sanded wood, simple in design. It should be on display. His temporary absence is our best chance to steal it. The front of the Palace will be guarded, so circle through the jungle and approach the back of the Gardens. Once you have found the mask, bring it back to me as quickly as possible.\"\n\nHelzog looks up, blinks. \"Stay out of sight, Alain. You are our Ministry's sole agent who specializes in such delicate matters.\"\n\nHEY, JINGO!\nAn IntroComp Entry\n(c) 2002 by Caleb Wilson\nPlease type ABOUT and CREDITS if you haven't before.\n\nA doorway leads back west into the Ministry. From it, a small path cuts northeast through the giant ferns and fruit trees. The sky is obscured by a canopy of vines. The melons weighting the vines attract insects, which in turn attract bats, whose high-pitched squeaks occasionally rise above the rustle of leaves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Alain Quincy, man of leisure and secret agent for the Ministry of Colonial Finance, and you are as good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trees", "response": "The dark foliage rustles in a warm breeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The trees here are choked by twisting vines. Their branches, bent and rough, screen out most of the moonlight. A dense mass of woody stems and trefoil leaves has sprung up between the trunks; beneath this matted vegetation the soil is clotted and moist. Were it not for a roughly hacked trail leading southwest and north, movement would be quite impossible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "A doorway leads back west into the Ministry. From it, a small path cuts northeast through the giant ferns and fruit trees. The sky is obscured by a canopy of vines. The melons weighting the vines attract insects, which in turn attract bats, whose high-pitched squeaks occasionally rise above the rustle of leaves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the melons", "response": "The melons, insects and bats form a tidy little ecosystem. If only life among humans were as simple...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vines", "response": "Vines of varying thicknesses form a domed shroud over the Ministry's back door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the melons", "response": "(first taking the melon)\nYou can't do anything with the melon except look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the vine", "response": "No point in climbing through the trees when there's a perfectly good path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The polished floor of the Ministry reflects the dim, tasteful lamps that hang from the lofty ceiling. The air smells of wood polish and ink. Somewhere above you, in the high empty space of the lobby, a clock ticks softly.\n\nMinister Helzog's office lies through a closed glass door to the north, and the street lies to the west. An inconspicuous back door leads east to the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The glass door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "A door of pebbled glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the glass door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A ceiling fan with lacquered wooden blades draws cool air through Helzog's office. Framed prints cover every wall, except for the north, which is a built in bookshelf. The large white desk is painfully tidy. An open glass door leads south to the lobby.\n\nMinister Helzog sits in a brown leather chair, his right leg twisted beneath the seat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Helzog", "response": "August Helzog wears a neatly pressed white suit. His kindly face is deeply tanned and lined, his white hair slicked smoothly to one side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bookshelf", "response": "Helzog's collection of first editions and bound comics is vast and extremely expensive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The polished floor of the Ministry reflects the dim, tasteful lamps that hang from the lofty ceiling. The air smells of wood polish and ink. Somewhere above you, in the high empty space of the lobby, a clock ticks softly.\n\nMinister Helzog's office lies through an open glass door to the north, and the street lies to the west. An inconspicuous back door leads east to the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Tropical Road, Outside Ministry\nFlags fly from the fortress-like Ministry of Colonial Finance, above a metal door that leads in to the east.\n\nOcean Street heads west and down, to the lower colony and to Golden Bay, which shimmers under the moonlight. Tropical Road runs north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Just north along Tropical Road, the marble of the Government Palace cuts sharply from the foliage. Tropical also runs south, back towards the Ministry. The sweet smell of oranges rides the warm breeze, under faintly throbbing equatorial stars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the leaves", "response": "The stems and interwoven leaves form a tough, springy mat underfoot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "The vine-choked trees seem to be in ragged rows. Perhaps this was once an orchard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This small pocket of grass is bottled under arching boughs strung with moss. The air here is still and sweet smelling. A rough path leads south into the foliage, while a more neatly trimmed walk leads northwest between the leaning trunks.\n\nYou hear what sounds like a splash from the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "Starlight barely illuminates a dark pool. Weeping cycads trail their fronds in the calm water. The air is cooler here, and tinged with a hint of silt and decay. A pavement walk heads west towards the Gardens, and it looks possible to travel southeast into the jungle.\n\nConcentric ripples in the pool's surface disappear as you watch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pool", "response": "The water is tranquil and quiet, the color of tea that has steeped for too long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "The water is foul and undoubtedly swimming with all manner of microorganisms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the pool", "response": "The mud on the bottom of the pool has been stirred, making the water as opaque as tea with cream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "The water here is murky, and unsuitable for swimming, especially at night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the water", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pool", "response": "The water is tranquil and quiet, the color of tea that has steeped for too long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Starlight barely illuminates a dark pool. Weeping cycads trail their fronds in the calm water. The air is cooler here, and tinged with a hint of silt and decay. A pavement walk heads west towards the Gardens, and it looks possible to travel southeast into the jungle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cycads", "response": "The pool's currents tangle with the cycads' leaves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The Palatze Gubernatal; The Government Palace: its marble face is darkened with moss, which is not surprising considering the humid atmosphere. Behind this dirtied face, however, is where the real corruption lies: the Palace bureaucrats who want to milk the colonists and locals for all they're worth while sitting around their card tables, drinking gin and looking at dirty imported comics.\n\nThe area under the Palace's eastern wall is a crowded labyrinth of flowers; their fragrances are dizzying. Vines cover the wall itself, growing around a wide window two stories directly above you.\n\nA pavement walk leads southwest, to the main entrance, and northwest, around the back of the Palace. A narrower walk spurs off to the east, towards a pool.\n\nA night moth flutters through near-solid eddies of pollen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the moth", "response": "A pale green moth, as wide across as your palm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the moth", "response": "The moth flutters a few meters above your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the vines", "response": "You pull your hand away from the vines with a curse: they're stinging ivy. It would be possible to climb them, just very, very painful. There must be some way to protect your hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vines", "response": "Although the flowers are wide and luscious, the vines themselves are tough and covered with stiff hairs, and are very painful to the touch. This is what the children call \"stinging ivy\", and young boys are always making whips out of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "A single lamp pours a pool of light across the grass of this hidden lawn. The trees loop over you to form a tiny chamber that's stained in the greens and blacks of a \"Count Lorenzo\" comic.\n\nA dark window looks in on rows of filing cabinets. A pavement walk leads southeast towards the gardens.\n\nA small wheelbarrow is parked here. Inside it you can see some gardening gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gloves", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "You put on the gardening gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine window", "response": "A small, dark window, currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wheelbarrow", "response": "A small wheelbarrow, presumably belonging to the Palace's gardening staff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the window", "response": "Through the window you can see what looks like a mail room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You can only go southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The area under the Palace's eastern wall is a crowded labyrinth of flowers; their fragrances are dizzying. Vines cover the wall itself, growing around a wide window two stories directly above you.\n\nA pavement walk leads southwest, to the main entrance, and northwest, around the back of the Palace. A narrower walk spurs off to the east, towards a pool.\n\nA night moth flutters through near-solid eddies of pollen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the vines", "response": "The vines are thin yet numerous. You climb swiftly, protected by your gloves, and soon arrive outside a window on the second story. You rest your foot on a narrow ledge.\n\nYou grasp handfuls of vines, two stories above the ground, directly outside a large window, which is closed. Through the window you can see a dark office.\n\nA bee buzzes around you, laden with the dust of pollen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bee", "response": "The bee is slender and pale yellow. Whitish pollen dusts its legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "You open the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You slip through the window.\n\nA rich carpet deadens the acoustics. The walls are panelled in glossy wood. Colorful local art shares displays with a few old paintings and some framed documents.\n\nA closed door leads west, and a window, which is open, overlooks the Thousand Flowers. A massive desk sits in the middle of the room.\n\nOnly once before were you in the presence of General Marchgrave. The main thing you remember was the overwhelming lavender smell of the cologne he wore, a smell which permeates this room.\n\nOn the desk are a Count Lorenzo comic book, an Afterimage comic book and a Ziggurat comic book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "This room smells strongly of lavender.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine lorenzo", "response": "It's a comic book featuring Count Lorenzo, a renaissance Urbitan nobleman who was poisoned by his best friend/worst enemy and imperfectly resurrected by his sorcerer wife after thirteen days of death. He became immortal, but his skin was forever stained the green of the afterlife. This is a very early issue, but probably not worth anything because it's in very poor condition: it's all cut up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Afterimage", "response": "It's a comic book featuring Afterimage, a modern Urbitan research scientist who, when stricken with a dose of radiation, became spectrum-shifted, and as a result, very difficult for human eyes to focus on. She was sentenced to execution, but escaped and became a vigilante and outlaw, righting wrongs against the oppressed. This issue is pretty early, and might be worth something were the pages not all cut up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Ziggurat", "response": "It's a comic book featuring Ziggurat, an ancient Babylonian warrior of mythical strength and heroic physical proportions. It is said that defeating Ziggurat would be as hard as pinning one of the massive masonry pyramids he's named for. This is one of the first issues; too bad it damaged and thus worthless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine art", "response": "In addition to colonials, the Green Coast is home to a number of ex-slaves and a very few of the original population who survived the Europeans' arrival. The art produced by these locals is colorful and ornate, incorporating many reds, yellows, greens, and natural wood shades. Some newcomers to the Green Coast find it rustic or even savage, but it really is rather lively and often beautiful. Marchgrave has a large collection of local statuary, as well as wall hangings and paintings.\n\nAlmost hidden behind behind the statues is a small black mask.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "The desk appears to be carved from a solid piece of bloodwood, and true to its name, shines redly in the moonlight from the window. It probably cost the yearly salary of a mid-level clerk. A large drawer faces away from the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "The drawer seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the paintings", "response": "Paintings of dead Europeans and rainy landscapes. Undoubtedly priceless, but bland.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hangings", "response": "The local art is colorful and ornate, incorporating many reds, yellows, greens, and natural wood shades. Marchgrave has a large collection of local statuary and wall hangings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mask", "response": "Taken.\n\nExcellent. This must be the mask. Now, all that remains between you and a much needed night of sleep is a short jaunt back to Helzog's office...\n...\n...\n...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You can go only west or out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mask", "response": "The door is closed.\n\n>It's a simple wooden mask, black in color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the mask", "response": "You put on the black mask.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You slip through the window.\n\nYou grasp handfuls of vines, two stories above the ground, directly outside a large window, which is open. Through the window you can see a dark office.\n\nA bee buzzes around you, laden with the dust of pollen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Alain Quincy, man of leisure and secret agent for the Ministry of Colonial Finance, and you are as good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You descend swiftly, soon arriving at the ground, where you flex your green-stained gloves.\n\nThe area under the Palace's eastern wall is a crowded labyrinth of flowers; their fragrances are dizzying. Vines cover the wall itself, growing around a wide window two stories directly above you.\n\nA pavement walk leads southwest, to the main entrance, and northwest, around the back of the Palace. A narrower walk spurs off to the east, towards a pool.\n\nA night moth flutters through near-solid eddies of pollen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the moth", "response": "(first taking the moth)\nThe moth flutters a few meters above your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "As you begin to slide around the corner of the Palace, you see a flash of blue: a uniform! and the glint of metal: a rifle! It must be a guard! You freeze and slowly draw back. Hopefully the guard hasn't seen you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Starlight barely illuminates a dark pool. Weeping cycads trail their fronds in the calm water. The air is cooler here, and tinged with a hint of silt and decay. A pavement walk heads west towards the Gardens, and it looks possible to travel southeast into the jungle.\n\nConcentric ripples in the pool's surface disappear as you watch.\n\nSomething bulky and dripping slips out of a moonbeam before you can identify it and crashes into the woods to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "This small pocket of grass is bottled under arching boughs strung with moss. The air here is still and sweet smelling. A rough path leads south into the foliage, while a more neatly trimmed walk leads northwest between the leaning trunks.\n\nA large shape scurries south into the trees. You catch the briefest glimpe of what looks like a segmented shell before it vanishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The trees here are choked by twisting vines. Their branches, bent and rough, screen out most of the moonlight. A dense mass of woody stems and trefoil leaves has sprung up between the trunks; beneath this matted vegetation the soil is clotted and moist. Were it not for a roughly hacked trail leading southwest and north, movement would be quite impossible.\n\nWith the clicking of many segmented legs, a large creature scuttles southwest through the brush. You catch a glimpse of what looks like wet feathers before it disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "A doorway leads back west into the Ministry. From it, a small path cuts northeast through the giant ferns and fruit trees. The sky is obscured by a canopy of vines. The melons weighting the vines attract insects, which in turn attract bats, whose high-pitched squeaks occasionally rise above the rustle of leaves.\n\nThe wall of the Ministry is smeared with a vertical streak of dark, foul-smelling mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mud", "response": "A band of smeared mud on the wall rises from the ground up to a second story window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake Helzog", "response": "That seems unnecessary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the mask to Helzog", "response": "Helzog takes the mask.\n\n\"Wonderful, Alain, my friend! My immense thanks!\" Helzog moves as if to stand up from his chair, but winces as his lame leg shifts. You wave him back into his chair, with a modest, \"No need to rise, sir.\"\n\nHelzog drums the mask with eager fingers. \"Alain, why don't you take tomorrow off? Enjoy yourself. Give them my greetings at the club.\"\n\nA book falls from the bookshelf with a thud. Helzog looks towards it curiously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "A thin, paper-backed book: The Place of Superstition in Modern Costa Verdoun. It looks like a thesis of some sort. The author listed on the front is \"A. Helzog\".\n\nHelzog glances sharply at you. \"Alain,\" he says, \"did you notice anything unusual during your mission?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"Why yes,\" you say, \"there was some sort of large, disgust--\"\n\nBefore you can properly react, the entire shelf of books explodes outward, propelled by a mass of what looks like wriggling earthworms. The worms stretch forward and enshroud Helzog's head in a gray wreath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the worms", "response": "The beast flickers in shadow, displaying at times features of crustacean, fowl, and annelid.\n\nThe books are still falling, falling away from a hunched form, which is covered in overlapping, chitinous plates and plumes of bedraggled feathers. In place of each hand is a bolus of earthworms, both of which now cover Helzog's face except for his nose. His voice sounds a bit panicky and muffled as he waves his arms. \"Alain, they've gotten a bloodhound on me! How is this possible! Help, help, help m-me out of here!\" His words are choked away as his mouth is filled.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bloodhound", "response": "The beast flickers in shadow, displaying at times features of crustacean, fowl, and annelid.\n\nHelzog's body falls limp. The bloodhound turns towards you with goggle-like eyes. It chitters and delicately waves its blood-stained antennae.\n\nHere ends the introduction to Hey, Jingo! Find the full game at an IF Archive near you before March 20, 2003!", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Children's" ]

[ "Christmas", "cover art", "easy", "holiday theme", "parser", "short", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 2, 2, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Every Christmas it's been a joy to give presents to all the good little girls and boys. Hauling presents, climbing down chimneys: it's no easy job being the guy who lives to bring joy throughout the world on Christmas, but you, Santa, are up to the challenge. Now you've made almost all your gift-giving rounds, and the only thing between you and a good eleven months of well-deserved rest is the last house, the Madisons'.\n\nBefore you land your sleigh, you double-check your gift list in your magic book to make sure you have all the Madisons' gifts: A Barbie for Kelly Madison, a Batman action figure for Justin Madison, a Wii for the whole family, a bone for their dog, Tina, and two bags full of candy and toys for the kids' stockings. Yep, that's everything! You park your sleigh on the Madisons' rooftop, and exit the sleigh.\n(Note that new players should type ABOUT.)\n\nA moment in the life of Santa Claus by Molly Geene\n\nNewly fallen snow sits gently on the roof. Nearby, you spot a chimney you can climb down.\n\nYour sleigh sits nearby, right where you parked it.\n\nLeading the sleigh is your trusty Reindeer Brigade, without which you couldn't make a single Christmas delivery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're wearing a dapper red hat and suit combo made specially for this outing by Mrs. Claus, and you've trimmed your beard just right. You look smashing!\n\nDasher shakes his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nthe magic bag\nWrapped Wii (for the family)\nWrapped Barbie (for Kelly)\nWrapped Batman Action Figure (for Justin)\nDoggy bone (for Tina)\nKelly's candy bag\nJustin's candy bag\n\nCupid champs at his bit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chimney", "response": "A warm, cozy chimney. There's just enough room there for you to climb down it.\n\nDasher paws the ground with his hoof.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You pinch your nose and jump down the chimney.\n\nBut halfway through, you bump into some nasty junk in the chimney. Oof! You jump rght back up the chimney. Looks like you have to find something to help you clean up the junk.\n\nDonner champs at his bit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Comet", "response": "Comet has antlers, red fur, cloven feet, and in most respects looks like your average reindeer.\n\nDasher shakes his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the junk", "response": "Some nasty, awful junk is clogging up the chimney.\n\nDancer champs at his bit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sleigh", "response": "Your sleigh is full of the things you need to make your rounds. It's almost empty now, though, since you've made almost all of your deliveries. The only things left in it are the magic book, the warm blanket, the cocoa mug and the sweeper stick.\n\nVixen paws the ground with his hoof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stick", "response": "Taken.\n\nDonner shakes his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You clean junk with the stick", "response": "You clear out all the junk with the chimney sweeper. Whoo! That was some hard work, but now you can go down the chimney.\n\nVixen champs at his bit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the magic book", "response": "It's a magic book that updates itself automatically with all the names of the good little girls and boys. You don't know what you'd do without it.\n\nOn the last page of the book, it lists the Madisons' gifts: a Batman action figure for Justin, a Barbie doll for Kelly, a Wii for the whole family, a bone for their dog, Tina, and two bags full of small toys and candy to serve as stocking stuffers for both of the kids.\n\nDonner paws the ground with his hoof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blanket", "response": "A warm, cuddly blanket.\n\nDancer shakes his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine mug", "response": "A mug with a merry scene of young boys sledding imprinted on it. It's empty, of course. You may as well just bring the whole pot with you next time.\n\nDonner paws the ground with his hoof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stick in the sleigh", "response": "You put the sweeper stick into Santa's sleigh.\n\nDancer shakes his head.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You pinch your nose and jump down the chimney.\n\nThe living room is lit only by the lights on the Christmas tree. The red brick walls give the living room a storybook feel.\n\nThe Christmas tree is dazzling, with pretty colored lights and ornaments a glitter.\n\nA dog by the tree is growling cautiously at you.\n\nYou spy a little boy sleeping on an old worn couch.\n\nNearby, you can see the fireplace for the chimney you went down.\n\nOn the fireplace are Justin's Christmas stocking (empty) and Kelly's Christmas stocking (empty).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bone to the dog", "response": "(first taking Doggy bone (for Tina))\nYou give the dog her bone. Suddenly her mood lights up instantly and she plays with it as if she were a frisky little puppy. Ho ho ho! What a jolly dog!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Wii under the tree", "response": "You place the family's Wii under the tree. Ho ho ho! Giving presents makes you feel good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Batman in the j stocking", "response": "Ho ho ho! Wrapped Batman Action Figure (for Justin) doesn't go there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Batman under the tree", "response": "You place Justin's Batman action figure under the tree. Ho ho ho! Giving presents makes you feel good!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\nthe magic bag\nWrapped Barbie (for Kelly)\nKelly's candy bag\nJustin's candy bag", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Barbie under the tree", "response": "You place Kelly's Holiday Barbie under the tree. Ho ho ho! Giving presents makes you feel good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the k bag in the k stocking", "response": "You put Kelly's bag of candy and toys into her Christmas stocking. Ho ho ho! Giving presents makes you feel good!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the j bag in the j stocking", "response": "You put Justin's bag of candy and toys into his Christmas stocking. Ho ho ho! Giving presents makes you feel good.\n\nSuddenly, the little boy awakes at the sound of putting away the last present. You face the boy and put your finger to your lips. The boy nods and dives into the couch front first, pretending to be asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "You pinch your nose and jump up the chimney.\n\nHowever, just before you disappear up the chute you hear the little boy dashing out of the living room, banging and bashing into many things along the way. After you climb into your sleigh and urge on your reindeer, you see the little boy with his sister outside the house. They are both waving at you, and as you fly through the air like a bird in the sky, you shout to them \"Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "animals", "cats", "Comedy", "Inform 7", "multiple endings", "short" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You awaken from a Sunday afternoon slumber, lazily opening one eye and squinting at the sunlight streaming through the window. This wasn't the first time you dreamed of busy streets and tall buildings.\n\nYou're sick of this village. Nafurville is no place for a cat with ambitions. You belong in a place where great things can happen, where every street is laced with opportunity. Somewhere like Chipawgo.\n\nCraning your neck, you give her a glare. She kept you captive\nin this godforsaken place, when you could have been making big bucks and gracing the billboards of Chipawgo. But not for much longer...\n\nIt's time to get out of here.\n\nThe hut is quiet except for the soft snores of your owner.\n\nYou can see an entrance, a bed, a rocking chair (on which is an old lady), a collage of photos, an endtable (on which is a telephone), a litter box, a cupboard (closed), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bed", "response": "Not much to say about it really. It's a bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chair", "response": "Your owner is sleeping on it.\n\nOn the rocking chair is an old lady.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at lady", "response": "Ugh. You don't even want to look at her right now. Better not wake her up or else she might try to stop you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the photos", "response": "A collage of photos of you and your owner are positioned on the wall in the shape of a heart. At the top is written \"Mr. FluffyPotato\" with hearts on either side. Sickening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine endtable", "response": "On the endtable is a telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the telephone", "response": "It's a wireless landline telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the litter", "response": "That's where you do your business. Usually.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "You open the cupboard, revealing some cans of Fancy Feast and a box of matches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "collage of photos: You hold the collage of photos in your mouth.\nbowl: You are already carrying the collage of photos in your mouth. telephone: You are already carrying the collage of photos in your mouth.\ncans of Fancy Feast: You are already carrying the collage of photos in your mouth.\nbox of matches: You are already carrying the collage of photos in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the photos", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bowl", "response": "That's the bowl from which you eat your meals. Inside is some cat food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bookcase", "response": "Dusty old books line the shelves, boasting titles such as Laser\nCats VII, Minced Meat Pies of Tomorrow, and\nMastering the Art of Karate in 5 Easy Steps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine laser cats vii", "response": "Considered by many to be the best in the series.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine minced meat", "response": "It's a book about minced meat pies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine karate", "response": "A detailed manual about the ancient art of karate. It is entitled \"Mastering the Art of Karate in 5 Easy Steps\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the karate", "response": "You remove the book from the shelf and start reading.\nTime passes as you dutifully hone your skills as guided by the text.\n\nCongrats! You now are a master of karate! Now to put these skills to use...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack lady", "response": "You expertly perform a tornado kick, sending her flying across the room. Your owner is now dead.\nYou are a monster.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the minced meat", "response": "No thank you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the laser cats", "response": "You've read it a hundred times already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "You'll have to say which compass direction to go in.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The hut is silent.\n\nOn the ground is an old lady.\n\nYou can also see a collage of photos, an entrance, a bed, a rocking chair, an endtable (on which is a telephone), a litter box, a cupboard (in which are some cans of Fancy Feast and a box of matches), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at lady", "response": "She lies motionless on the wooden floor of the hut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat lady", "response": "She's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat food", "response": "You nibble at the cat food, but soon lose interest. It's just so unappetizing when the bowl is only half full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "It seems to be locked.\n\nGuess you have to find some other way to open it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the door", "response": "You leap in the air and deliver a strong kick to the door, busting it open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "That's already open.\n\nThe north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a tree and a squirrel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tree", "response": "Looks like oak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the squirrel", "response": "Looks delicious.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the squirrel", "response": "You leap at the squirrel, but it is too fast and runs up the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "You nimbly climb up to one of the branches. Only then do you realize that you have no idea how to climb down trees. You have no choice but to wait for someone to rescue you. Chipawgo will have to wait until another day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The hut is silent.\n\nOn the ground is an old lady.\n\nYou can also see a collage of photos, a bed, a rocking chair, an endtable (on which is a telephone), a litter box, a cupboard (in which are some cans of Fancy Feast and a box of matches), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the matches", "response": "You hold the box of matches in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "That's already open.\n\nThe north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a tree (on which is a squirrel) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The hut is silent.\n\nOn the ground is an old lady.\n\nYou can also see a collage of photos, a bed, a rocking chair, an endtable (on which is a telephone), a litter box, a cupboard (in which are some cans of Fancy Feast), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick lady", "response": "She's already dead, you a**hole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light match", "response": "What do you want to light on fire? (i.e. \"light something on fire\").", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The river is both wider and deeper than you would have hoped. Tall grass grows from the muddy soil.\n\nYou can see a water (in which is a turtle) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the turtle", "response": "A large turtle with a nice big shell. He looks relatively friendly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the turtle", "response": "You ask the turtle if he can get you across the river. The turtle says to bring him something fancy and he'll see what he can do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a tree (on which is a squirrel) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get fancy", "response": "You hold the cans of Fancy Feast in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "That's already open.\n\nThe north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a tree (on which is a squirrel) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the turtle", "response": "You swipe at the turtle but miss. The turtle becomes enraged and bites off your paw. You collapse and bleed out until everything becomes dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The hut is silent.\n\nOn the ground is an old lady.\n\nYou can also see a box of matches, a collage of photos, a bed, a rocking chair, an endtable (on which is a telephone), a litter box, a cupboard (empty), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the tree", "response": "You are already carrying the box of matches in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is where the village people get together to do business. It's generally pathetic.\nThe street is deserted now. The hut and the river lie to the east.\n\nYou can see an Ice Cream Shop, a Clothing Store, a Saloon and a white cat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cat", "response": "You see a sleek white cat preening herself. She looks very pretty and she knows it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat stops licking her pristine fur, looks you in the eye, and says\n\n\"I know what you've done, criminal.\"\n\nShe steps forward menacingly.\n\n\"I pity you. You can run from this place, but you can never escape your sins. Your soul will never be free.\" She pauses. \"You know, it's a shame you did what you did, because I could have blown your mind.\"\n\nYou watch silently as she walks away. You feel a bit chilly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ice cream", "response": "They sell ice cream, a frozen food, typically eaten as a snack or dessert, usually made from dairy products, such as milk and cream, and often combined with fruits or other ingredients and flavours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the ice cream", "response": "It's closed. No point to going inside if there's no ice cream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Clothing Store", "response": "Clothes for men, women, and children (but not cats). The store is clearly closed. You can see a dress, shoes, and a top hat through the display window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hat", "response": "A fancy hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the window", "response": "You give the window a mighty punch, leaving the glass shattered on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hat", "response": "You hold the hat in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a white cat, a box of matches and a tree (on which is a squirrel) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The river is both wider and deeper than you would have hoped. Tall grass grows from the muddy soil.\n\nYou can see a water (in which is a turtle) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the hat to the turtle", "response": "\"Oooh, now that's fancy.\" The turtle accepts your gift and lets you slide the top hat onto his head.\n\n\"Now, hop on and I'll give you that ride you wanted.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hop on turtle", "response": "You gingerly climb on the turtle's back. The turtle glides toward the other side of the river, careful not to dip below the surface of the water. As he swims, you look back toward the village that you are fleeing. Somewhere deep inside, you can feel a pang of guilt as you realize you will never see this place again. Gone are the days of safety and comfort, of careful love.\n\nYou shake your head to break your train of thought and determinedly face onward. This is about you and your dreams. Not her.\n\nThe turtle reaches the other side of the river and you hop off. Nafurville is already starting to look smaller. The land slopes steeply upward from the river, strewn with rocks of different shapes and sizes. The highway is further east.\n\nYou can see a turtle here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Cars race down the concrete, each one creating a small wind in its wake. The way to Chipawgo is south, the same direction that the cars on your side of the street are headed. To the north you can see a farm in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Chipawgo is much too far away to reach on paw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "It's a boring old farm. No humans seem to be around. The highway to Chipawgo is to the south.\n\nYou can see a barn (in which is a horse) and cows here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the barn", "response": "In the barn is a horse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the horse", "response": "Looks like the strong, silent type.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cows", "response": "Moo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cows", "response": "You meow. They moo back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the horse", "response": "The horse is much bigger than you so you decide against it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ride the horse", "response": "You jump on the horse and grab hold of the reins. You gallop out of the farm and north alongside the highway toward Chipawgo, ignoring the stares of fellow travelers in their cars.\n\nAs you travel toward freedom, you feel a twinge of remorse for the terrible deed you have done. You wonder if it was worth it.\n\nYou decide to bury your memories of Nafurville somewhere deep down inside. That'll have to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat stops licking herself, looks you in the eye, and states,\n\nThe Lorenz system is a system of ordinary differential equations first studied by Edward Lorenz. It is notable for having chaotic solutions for certain parameter values and initial conditions. In particular, the Lorenz attractor is a set of chaotic solutions of the Lorenz system which, when plotted, resemble a butterfly or figure eight.\n\nShe then turns away to continue her grooming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat stops licking herself, looks you in the eye, and states,\n\n\"A red herring is something that misleads or distracts from a relevant or important issue. It may be either a logical fallacy or a literary device that leads readers or audiences towards a false conclusion. A red herring might be intentionally used, such as in mystery fiction or as part of a rhetorical strategy, or it could be inadvertently used during argumentation.\"\n\nShe then turns away to continue her grooming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat stops licking herself, looks you in the eye, and states,\n\n\"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a Christian restorationist church that is considered by its followers to be the restoration of the original church founded by Jesus Christ. The church is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, and has established congregations and built temples worldwide. It has over 85,000 missionaries and a membership of over 15 million.\"\n\nShe then turns away to continue her grooming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat stops licking herself, looks you in the eye, and states,\n\n\"The Qing dynasty was the last imperial dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912 with a brief, abortive restoration in 1917. It was preceded by the Ming dynasty and succeeded by the Republic of China. The Qing multi-cultural empire lasted almost three centuries and formed the territorial base for the modern Chinese state.\"\n\nShe then turns away to continue her grooming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat stops licking herself, looks you in the eye, and states,\n\n\"League of Legends is a multiplayer online battle arena video game developed and published by Riot Games for Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X. It is a free-to-play game that is supported by micro-transactions and inspired by the mod Defense of the Ancients for the video game Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne.\"\n\nShe then turns away to continue her grooming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to cat", "response": "The cat stops licking herself, looks you in the eye, and states,\n\n\"A wallaby is a macropod found in Australia. They belong to the same taxonomic family as kangaroos and sometimes the same genus, but kangaroos are specifically categorised into the six largest species of the family. The term wallaby is an informal designation generally used for any macropod that is smaller than a kangaroo or wallaroo that has not been designated otherwise.\"\n\nShe then turns away to continue her grooming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat stops licking herself, looks you in the eye, and states,\n\n\"The Schmidt Family Foundation is a private foundation created in 2006 by Eric Schmidt, the Executive Chairman of Google, and his wife Wendy Schmidt, to address issues pertaining to sustainability and the responsible use of natural resources.\"\n\nShe then turns away to continue her grooming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat stops licking herself, looks you in the eye, and states,\n\n\"Spam is a brand of canned precooked meat products made by Hormel Foods Corporation. It was first introduced in 1937 and gained popularity worldwide after its use during World War II. By 2003, Spam was sold in 41 countries on six continents and trademarked in over 100 countries. In 2007, the seven billionth can of Spam was sold.\nSpam's basic ingredients are pork shoulder meat, with ham meat added, salt, water, modified potato starch as a binder, sugar, and sodium nitrite as a preservative.\"\n\nShe then turns away to continue her grooming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick cat", "response": "You lick the white cat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You clean yourself", "response": "You rub yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lick yourself", "response": "You lick yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick ice cream", "response": "You lick the Ice Cream Shop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick clothing", "response": "You lick the Clothing Store.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Saloon", "response": "It's a saloon, complete with swinging wooden doors. Like in those cowboy movies. You're not entirely sure what year it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the cat", "response": "She's much too beautiful to attack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the window", "response": "You give the window a mighty punch, leaving the glass shattered on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hat", "response": "You hold the hat in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dress", "response": "A fancy dress.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "You can see a sequin dress, black shoes, and a top hat through the display window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shoes", "response": "Fancy shoes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the hat", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shoes", "response": "You hold shoes in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dress", "response": "You hold the dress in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a tree and a squirrel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The hut is quiet except for the soft snores of your owner.\n\nYou can see a bed, a rocking chair (on which is an old lady), a collage of photos, an endtable (on which is a telephone), a litter box, a cupboard (closed), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Open Feast", "response": "You try using your claws and teeth to open the cans, but it's fruitless. You'll probably starve here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kick owner", "response": "You expertly perform a tornado kick, sending her flying across the room. Your owner is now dead.\nYou are a monster.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick owner", "response": "You lick the old lady.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Purr", "response": "You let out a soft purr.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Meow", "response": "You meow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick fancy feast", "response": "You lick the cans of Fancy Feast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lick the minced Meat", "response": "You lick Minced Meat Pies of Tomorrow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dress", "response": "You hold the dress in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "That's already open.\n\nThe north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a tree and a squirrel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The river is both wider and deeper than you would have hoped. Tall grass grows from the muddy soil.\n\nYou can see a water (in which is a turtle) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the turtle", "response": "You ask the turtle if he can get you across the river. The turtle says to bring him something fancy and he'll see what he can do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the dress to the turtle", "response": "The turtle looks at the dress with disinterest and says \"Not my style.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the water", "response": "You hold the water in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick turtle", "response": "You lick the turtle.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The river is both wider and deeper than you would have hoped. Tall grass grows from the muddy soil.\n\nYou can see a dress and a water (in which is a turtle) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a tree and a squirrel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is where the village people get together to do business. It's generally pathetic.\nThe street is deserted now. The hut and the river lie to the east.\n\nYou can see shoes, a hat, an Ice Cream Shop, a Clothing Store, a Saloon and a white cat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get hat", "response": "You hold the hat in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the grass", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub grass", "response": "You rub the grass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The hut is quiet except for the soft snores of your owner.\n\nYou can see a bed, a rocking chair (on which is an old lady), a collage of photos, an endtable (on which is a telephone), a litter box, a cupboard (in which are some cans of Fancy Feast and a box of matches), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the matches", "response": "You hold the box of matches in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lady on fire", "response": "You strike the match and hold it to your owner's dress, watching the flames grow before your eyes. Before you know it, your owner is screaming and running outside, kicking the door open on her way out. You watch her flaming figure run toward the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The river is both wider and deeper than you would have hoped. Tall grass grows from the muddy soil.\n\nYou can see a hat, a dress and a water (in which is a turtle) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a tree and a squirrel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is where the village people get together to do business. It's generally pathetic.\nThe street is deserted now. The hut and the river lie to the east.\n\nYou can see shoes, an Ice Cream Shop, a Clothing Store, a Saloon and a white cat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The north side of the hut. To the west is the main village road. To the east is the river bank, on the other side of which lies the path to Chipawgo.\n\nYou can see a white cat, a tree and a squirrel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the tree", "response": "Who do you want to talk to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cat", "response": "The cat refuses to talk to you and instead continues to groom herself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na box of matches", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the minced Meat", "response": "You hold Minced Meat Pies of Tomorrow in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hop on turtle", "response": "You gingerly climb on the turtle's back. The turtle glides toward the other side of the river, careful not to dip below the surface of the water. As he swims, you look back toward the village that you are fleeing. Somewhere deep inside, you can feel a pang of guilt as you realize you will never see this place again. Gone are the days of safety and comfort, of careful love. What will she do once she realizes you have left? Will she break down and cry? Will she get another cat?\n\nYou shake your head to break your train of thought and determinedly face onward. This is about you and your dreams. Not her.\n\nThe turtle reaches the other side of the river and you hop off. Nafurville is already starting to look smaller. The land slopes steeply upward from the river, strewn with rocks of different shapes and sizes. The highway is further east.\n\nYou can see a turtle here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Cars race down the concrete, each one creating a small wind in its wake. The way to Chipawgo is south, the same direction that the cars on your side of the street are headed. To the north you can see a farm in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "It's a boring old farm. No humans seem to be around. The highway to Chipawgo is to the south.\n\nYou can see a barn (in which is a horse) and cows here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give book to the cows", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drop", "response": "(Minced Meat Pies of Tomorrow)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cows", "response": "You hold cows in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\ncows", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Cars race down the concrete, each one creating a small wind in its wake. The way to Chipawgo is south, the same direction that the cars on your side of the street are headed. To the north you can see a farm in the distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the cows at the cars", "response": "Futile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick cows", "response": "You lick cows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "It's a boring old farm. No humans seem to be around. The highway to Chipawgo is to the south.\n\nYou can see Minced Meat Pies of Tomorrow and a barn (in which is a horse) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ride the horse", "response": "You jump on the horse and grab hold of the reins. You gallop out of the farm and north alongside the highway toward Chipawgo, ignoring the stares of fellow travelers in their cars.\n\nThe sun sets and the sky above turns black. You gaze at the stars and dream of what they have in store for you. The taste of freedom is sweet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake lady", "response": "That seems unnecessary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboard", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cans", "response": "You are already carrying the box of matches in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite lady", "response": "You expertly perform a tornado kick, sending her flying across the room. Your owner is now dead.\nYou are a monster.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the cans to the cat", "response": "The white cat is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the cans to the cat", "response": "She scoffs. \"No thank you. I only eat the Fanciest of Feasts\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The hut is quiet except for the soft snores of your owner.\n\nYou can see a box of matches, a bed, a rocking chair (on which is an old lady), a collage of photos, an endtable (on which is a telephone), a litter box, a cupboard (empty), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pee", "response": "You go number one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Poop", "response": "You eject a small poop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the chair", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the phone", "response": "You hold the telephone in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call", "response": "You place the phone on the ground and clumsily strike the phone with your paws, pushing random buttons until it rings.\n\nThe number you have reached is not in service.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The hut is quiet except for the soft snores of your owner.\n\nOn the ground is a telephone.\n\nYou can also see some cans of Fancy Feast, a box of matches, a bed, a rocking chair (on which is an old lady), a collage of photos, an endtable, a litter box, a cupboard (empty), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the photos", "response": "You hold the collage of photos in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The hut is quiet except for the soft snores of your owner.\n\nOn the ground is a telephone.\n\nYou can also see some cans of Fancy Feast, a box of matches, a bed, a rocking chair (on which is an old lady), an endtable, a litter box, a cupboard (empty), a bowl and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bowl", "response": "You hold the bowl in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the bowl to the cat", "response": "(the white cat)\nThe white cat is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bowl to the cat", "response": "(the white cat)\nThe white cat doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The hut is quiet except for the soft snores of your owner.\n\nOn the ground is a telephone.\n\nYou can also see a collage of photos, some cans of Fancy Feast, a box of matches, a bed, a rocking chair (on which is an old lady), an endtable, a litter box, a cupboard (empty) and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb lady", "response": "You gently jump onto your owner's lap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You curl up and take a nap. The world can wait.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pee", "response": "You go number one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The hut is quiet except for the soft snores of your owner.\n\nOn the ground is a telephone.\n\nYou can also see a bowl, a collage of photos, some cans of Fancy Feast, a box of matches, a bed, a rocking chair (on which is an old lady), an endtable, a litter box, a cupboard (empty) and a bookcase here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the laser", "response": "You hold Laser Cats VII in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is where the village people get together to do business. It's generally pathetic.\nThe street is deserted now. The hut and the river lie to the east.\n\nYou can see Laser Cats VII, shoes, an Ice Cream Shop, a Clothing Store, a Saloon and a white cat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Claw", "response": "What do you want to claw?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You must name something more substantial.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "ADRIFT 5", "built-in hints", "dragon", "fantasy", "inform", "magic", "merciful", "minimalist", "multiple solutions", "old school", "parser", "play online", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "] Outskirts 0/1\n\nFinally you arrive at the outskirts of the forest. Both you and the queen's chauffeur Leon step down from the carriage. As you alight, you clearly remember the words of Queen Drana: \"Please return with the Dragon Diamond...\" She did not need to finish her sentence with the words \"...if you want to live.\" You know her too well.\n\n(New players: type ABOUT).\n\nYou stand in the outskirts of the Forest of Fear, beside the carriage which brought you here in the first place. An intense feeling of evil emanates from within the forest, which lies to the north.\n\nLeon is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Leon", "response": "Leon is a tall warrior, much like yourself. He is carrying a long rope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na long sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Bash the Barbarian, a feared warrior deeply in depth to the evil queen Drana.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the carriage", "response": "The empty carriage is drawn by a black horse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the horse", "response": "It is a big strong black stallion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is where you first entered the forest. The feeling of malignity is overwhelming. It is very quiet here. Not a single insect. Trails lead off to north, south, east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are in a little glade surrounded by little bushes. A trail continues east to west.\n\nThere is an odd looking bush here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bush", "response": "It is an odd looking bush with poisonous thorns. Stuck beneath the bush is an axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the axe", "response": "The axe look sharp. Unfortunately it is covered by poisonous thorns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are in mud to your knees. Many saplings are scattered around the mud. An exit leads east.\n\nThere is mud everywhere you look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mud", "response": "The mud is wet and soft but will harden quickly if you dip your hands in it.\n\nIn the mud is a muddy branch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the branch", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dip hands", "response": "What do you want to dip your hands in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Mud", "response": "You dip your hands into the mud and the mud hardens leaving a thick layer of dry mud on your hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in a little glade surrounded by little bushes. A trail continues east to west.\n\nThere is an odd looking bush here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the axe", "response": "Due to the protective layer of mud on your hands, you manage to drag the axe out through the thorns and take it with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at branch", "response": "A strong branch, length about 1 meter. The branch is covered in a protective layer of dry mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is where you first entered the forest. The feeling of malignity is overwhelming. It is very quiet here. Not a single insect. Trails lead off to north, south, east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stand in the outskirts of the Forest of Fear, beside the carriage which brought you here in the first place. An intense feeling of evil emanates from within the forest, which lies to the north.\n\nLeon is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rope", "response": "As you try to take the rope from Leon, he steps away from you and says \"If you want the rope you will have to fight me!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Leon, to go north", "response": "In an aggressive tone, Leon says \"Your job is to get the diamond. My job is to wait here. I am NOT going into that forest!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fight Leon", "response": "You raise your sword and enter into a long sword battle with Leon. After a long and exhausting battle, you finally manage to swing your sword against Leons neck before he can react. While his head and sword fly in a big curve into the thick vegetation, his body, and the rope Leon was holding, fall to the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rope", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the body", "response": "Leons headless bloody body lies sprawled on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are south of a wide crocodile infested lake. It is hard to see anything through the mist coming up from the water. A trail leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the water", "response": "It is hard to see anything through the dark water. There are several crocodiles on the surface though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "In this part of the forest the trees stand very close making it impossible to deviate from the forest trail, which curves from the west towards north.\n\nA string dangles down from the treetops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the string", "response": "The string dangles down from somewhere high up in the tree tops. The string has a certain magical aura. Magical strings tend to be strong as rope and cannot be cut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb string", "response": "The string is too smooth to climb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na long rope\na sharp axe\na muddy branch\na long sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can't leave while holding the dangling string, so you let go of it.\n\nYou are in front of a very tall and wide tree. High up among the branches of the tree you notice a wooden platform. A trail leads south.\n\nThere is a huge basket here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the platform", "response": "The wooden platform is placed on the south side of the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine basket", "response": "(the huge basket)\nThe basket is huge, huge enough to enter. A string extends from the basket and stretches far up into the tree tops above the platform. The basket is tilted slightly, as if something is underneath it.\n\nIn the huge basket is a blade of a spade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the basket", "response": "(the huge basket)\nYou look under the basket and find a hook stuck to the bottom of the basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hook", "response": "That seems to be a part of the huge basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine blade", "response": "It should be possible to make a decent spade with this blade, if an appropriate branch is found.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the blade to the branch", "response": "You manage to attach the blade of a spade decently to the branch and voilà, you have now a spade!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the rope to basket", "response": "(the huge basket)\nYou would achieve nothing by this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the rope", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the rope to the hook", "response": "You tie the rope to the hook and drop the rope beside the big basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rope", "response": "Try untying it first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the rope over the platform", "response": "(first taking the tied rope)\nTry untying it first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the platform", "response": "The wooden platform is placed on the south side of the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the basket", "response": "(the huge basket)\nThe huge basket is already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "In this part of the forest the trees stand very close making it impossible to deviate from the forest trail, which curves from the west towards north.\n\nYou can see a dangling string here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the string", "response": "You take a good hold of the string and begin to pull. As you pull the string, it feels like you are raising something heavy somewhere else. You pull the string as much as you can. Whatever you are raising must now be lifted many meters above the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tie string", "response": "What do you want to tie the dangling string to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na dangling string\na handy spade\na sharp axe\na long sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You can't leave while holding the dangling string, so you let go of it.\n\nYou are in front of a very tall and wide tree. High up among the branches of the tree you notice a wooden platform. A trail leads south.\n\nThere is a rope here tied to the hook underneath the basket.\n\nThere is a huge basket here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the basket", "response": "(the huge basket)\nThe basket is too bulky to carry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the basket", "response": "(the huge basket)\nYou get into the huge basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the huge basket.\n\nYou are in front of a very tall and wide tree. High up among the branches of the tree you notice a wooden platform. A trail leads south.\n\nThere is a rope here tied to the hook underneath the basket.\n\nThere is a huge basket here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the string to the tree", "response": "You tie the string to a nearby tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in front of a very tall and wide tree. High up among the branches of the tree you notice a wooden platform. A trail leads south.\n\nThere is a rope dangling here from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rope", "response": "If you climb the dangling rope, you might be able to untie it once you get to the top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the rope", "response": "You are standing on a wooden platform high above the ground. A doorway leads into a cottage carved out of the trunk of the large tree.\n\nThere is a rope dangling from a hook in the bottom of the basket.\n\nThere is a huge basket hanging beside the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cottage", "response": "There is a doorway in the cottage leading inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You are inside a cottage carved into the trunk of the tree. A large opening in the north wall serves as a window overlooking the misty lake below. There is a trapdoor in the floor in the middle of the room. An exit leads out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "From the window the crocodile infested lake far below can be seen. The northern shore is not so far from here, and it makes you wonder if you could jump out of the window and into the lake in order to reach the northern shore before the crocodiles reach you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trapdoor", "response": "The trapdoor is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trapdoor", "response": "okay, you open the trapdoor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You are standing on a large green lawn filled with grass and yellow flowers. Here, at the middle of the lawn, there is the magical trapdoor from which you came. There is a bamboo hut to the southwest, a small wood to the south and a quicksand pool to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "You are inside a small bamboo hut. The exit lies northeast. The furniture is quite sparse, consisting of a chair, a table and a bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chair", "response": "The chair is made from heavy wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "The bed is made from heavy wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at table", "response": "The table is made from heavy wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under bed", "response": "Under the bed you find a long spear. You take it with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the chair", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are in a little wood. Footprints can be noticed on the overgrown trail, indicating the presence of humans. Trails lead north and south.\n\nFar to the south you notice an archer high up in a tree, aiming in your direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowers", "response": "The yellow flowers add to the peaceful atmosphere on the lawn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flowers", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na long spear\na handy spade\na sharp axe\na long sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the spear at the archer", "response": "(the archer in a tree)\nWith a strong throw you plant the spear right in the archers chest. He screams and falls down from the tree into the forest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are in a clearing within the little wood.\n\nYou can see a pile of twigs here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the twigs", "response": "Just a pile of twigs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the twigs", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are in a clearing within the little wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in a little wood. Footprints can be noticed on the overgrown trail, indicating the presence of humans. Trails lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the footprints", "response": "The footprints lead south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are on the west bank of a large quicksand pool. You can walk north and south along the bank, or go west to the lawn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pool", "response": "It is a 5 meter wide quicksand pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are on the northern end of the bank of a large quicksand pool. Thick vegetation blocks your way further north. You can go back south along the bank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You are on the southern end of the bank of a large quicksand pool. Thick vegetation blocks your way further south. On the other side of the pool, a tree with long branches stand. One branch is projected over the quicksand pool. You can go back north along the bank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the branch", "response": "Cutting it up would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na pile of twigs\na handy spade\na sharp axe\na long sword", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the branch", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the branch", "response": "The branch is projected approximately over the middle of the quicksand pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You are standing on a wooden platform high above the ground. A doorway leads into a cottage carved out of the trunk of the large tree.\n\nThere is a rope dangling from a hook in the bottom of the basket.\n\nThere is a huge basket hanging beside the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rope", "response": "Try untying it first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You untie the rope", "response": "You untie the rope and take it with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the rope at the branch", "response": "Before throwing the rope you tie a loop. You manage to catch the branch with the loop and you let the rope dangle over the quicksand pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rope", "response": "You can't reach it from here. The quicksand is in the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the rope", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are on the west bank of a large quicksand pool. You can walk north and south along the bank, or go west to the lawn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are on the southern end of the bank of a large quicksand pool. Thick vegetation blocks your way further south. On the other side of the pool, a tree with long branches stand. One branch is projected over the quicksand pool. You can go back north along the bank.\n\nA rope is hanging from a branch above the center of the quicksand pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Jump quicksand", "response": "When jumping, please specify if you want to jump INTO something, jump ONTO something, jump THROUGH something or jump OUT OF something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump onto the rope", "response": "You take a few steps back, then you run and take a big leap across the quicksand pool, where you manage to catch the dangling rope and swing the last meters across the pool and land safely on the other side.\n\nYou are on the east bank of a large quicksand pool. You can go east into the forest.\n\nA rope is hanging from a branch above the center of the quicksand pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "you are deep inside the magical part of forest of fear. Trails lead east, west and southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are on a cosy beach. The sound of the waves add to the nice atmosphere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the beach", "response": "The sand is white and beautiful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You have already dug a big hole in the sand.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You are down in the hole that you have dug on the beach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "The ground is too hard to dig here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "You are on a cosy beach. The sound of the waves add to the nice atmosphere.\n\nThere is a big hole in the sand here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You are in front of the Devil Mountain, the residence of the dragon. A path leads northwest into the forest and the entrance to the Dragon den lies south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "It would be suicide to go into the dragon den while the dragon is there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are on the east bank of a large quicksand pool. You can go east into the forest.\n\nA rope is hanging from a branch above the center of the quicksand pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump onto the rope", "response": "You take a few steps back, then you run and take a big leap across the quicksand pool, where you manage to catch the dangling rope and swing the last meters across the pool and land safely on the other side.\n\nYou are on the southern end of the bank of a large quicksand pool. Thick vegetation blocks your way further south. On the other side of the pool, a tree with long branches stand. One branch is projected over the quicksand pool. You can go back north along the bank.\n\nA rope is hanging from a branch above the center of the quicksand pool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You are standing on a wooden platform high above the ground. A doorway leads into a cottage carved out of the trunk of the large tree.\n\nThere is a huge basket hanging beside the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine basket", "response": "(the huge basket)\nThe basket is huge, huge enough to enter. A string extends from the basket and stretches far up into the tree tops above the platform. You notice a hook stuck to the bottom of the basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hook", "response": "The metal hook is firmly attached to the bottom of the basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump through the window", "response": "You jump out of the window and land in the deep water, close to the northern bank. From here you manage to swim ashore before the crocodiles can smell you.\n\nYou are north of a wide crocodile infested lake. It is hard to see anything through the mist coming up from the water. You can go north to the edge of a volcano.\n\nThere is a wooden canoe lying on the lake shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paddle", "response": "It is a single-bladed wooden paddle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lake", "response": "Several dangerous crocodiles swim around in the lake. The crocodiles look very hungry!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mist", "response": "It is hard to see anything through the mist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are standing on the edge of a deep volcano. A small birch is standing near the edge of the volcano. You can go south back to the lake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the birch", "response": "You manage to chop the birch in a few strokes with the sharp axe. The birch falls into the volcano. No, it is stopped by something! Looking into the volcano you see that the treetop of the birch is stopped by a ledge. It should now be safe to climb down the birch to the ledge...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb down", "response": "You are standing on a ledge in front of a cave carved into the volcano wall. Light emanates from the cave to the south. The birch is resting on the ledge, leading up to the edge of the volcano.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cave", "response": "Not much can be seen through the small cave opening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the birch", "response": "The treetop of the birch is resting on the ledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You are in a small cave inhabited by a small dwarf. Sparse furniture is placed appropriately around the cave. Torches mounted on the walls light up the place in a cosy manner.\n\nA dwarf stands in the middle of the cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dwarf", "response": "The dwarf is well dressed and has a long white beard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the dwarf", "response": "You say hello to the dwarf and he offers you a seat in his humble home. You quickly engage in a long interesting conversation. The dwarf, whose name is Toke, knows a lot about the forest and he warns you of the dangers ahead. Specifically he mentions that the Dragon Diamond is the eye of the dragon and that you need to kill the dragon in order to obtain the fabled Dragon Diamond. Toke hands you a ring while he says: \"This ring will allow you to fly high but not wide. If you need to reach a high place, just wear this ring.\"\n\nYou thank Toke and prepare to leave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the torches", "response": "A few torches light up the cave in a cosy manner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the furniture", "response": "The sparse selection of furniture adds to the cosy atmosphere of the cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ring", "response": "The magical ring has beautiful engravings all over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are standing on a ledge in front of a cave carved into the volcano wall. Light emanates from the cave to the south. The birch is resting on the ledge, leading up to the edge of the volcano.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You are standing on the edge of a deep volcano. You can go south back to the lake.\n\nThe trunk of the chopped birch can be seen sticking up over the edge of the volcano.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are north of a wide crocodile infested lake. It is hard to see anything through the mist coming up from the water. You can go north to the edge of a volcano.\n\nThere is a wooden canoe lying on the lake shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You paddle south", "response": "You push the canoe out into the water and get in. You paddle slowly across the water trying not to catch the attention of the crocodiles. Finally you reach the opposite shore, where you drag the canoe onto land.\n\nYou are south of a wide crocodile infested lake. It is hard to see anything through the mist coming up from the water. A trail leads south.\n\nThere is a wooden canoe lying on the lake shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You stand in the outskirts of the Forest of Fear, beside the carriage which brought you here in the first place. An intense feeling of evil emanates from within the forest, which lies to the north.\n\nLeon's lifeless body lies sprawled on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the body", "response": "With big effort you manage to sling Leon's body over your shoulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Forest", "response": "The forest is covered in a gloomy glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "In this part of the forest the trees stand very close making it impossible to deviate from the forest trail, which curves from the west towards north.\n\nThe string from the treetops is tied to a nearby tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in front of a very tall and wide tree. High up among the branches of the tree you notice a wooden platform. A trail leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ring", "response": "You put on the ring and fly up through the trees. You safely land on the platform and remove the ring again.\n\nYou are standing on a wooden platform high above the ground. A doorway leads into a cottage carved out of the trunk of the large tree.\n\nThere is a huge basket hanging beside the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ring", "response": "You fly high up into the air, then you come down again and land exactly on the same spot. You remember Tokes words: \"You can fly high but not wide\". You remove the ring again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ring", "response": "You put on the ring and fly down through the trees. You safely land on the ground and remove the ring again.\n\nYou are in front of a very tall and wide tree. High up among the branches of the tree you notice a wooden platform. A trail leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "In this part of the forest the trees stand very close making it impossible to deviate from the forest trail, which curves from the west towards north.\n\nThe string from the treetops is tied to a nearby tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are south of a wide crocodile infested lake. It is hard to see anything through the mist coming up from the water. A trail leads south.\n\nThere is a wooden canoe lying on the lake shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the body into the lake", "response": "You manage to throw Leons heavy body into the lake. The crocodiles fight about their new meal, but in the end there is enough to satisfy everyone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paddle west", "response": "You must name something more substantial.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paddle north", "response": "You push the canoe out into the water and get in. You paddle slowly across the water trying not to catch the attention of the crocodiles. Finally you reach the opposite shore, where you drag the canoe onto land.\n\nYou are north of a wide crocodile infested lake. It is hard to see anything through the mist coming up from the water. You can go north to the edge of a volcano.\n\nThere is a wooden canoe lying on the lake shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lake", "response": "Several dangerous crocodiles swim around in the lake. The crocodiles appear to be satisfied from the meal you gave them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You are not here on holiday! You need to find the Dragon Diamond!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ring", "response": "You fly high up into the air, then you come down again and land exactly on the same spot. You remember Tokes words: \"You can fly high but not wide\". You remove the ring again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ring", "response": "You put on the ring and fly up to the top of the Devil Mountain. You safely land on its top and remove the ring again.\n\nYou are standing on top of the Devil Mountain. There is a chimney here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at chimney", "response": "The chimney is round and made of stone. There is smoke coming up from the chimney.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the twigs into the chimney", "response": "You throw the twigs in the chimney. No more smoke is coming up from the chimney now. It seems as you are trying to smoke out the dragon! So you better get away from the Devil Mountain immediately before the dragon finds you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ring", "response": "You put on the ring and fly down from the Devil Mountain. You safely land on the ground and remove the ring again.\n\nYou are in front of the Devil Mountain, the residence of the dragon. A path leads northwest into the forest and the entrance to the Dragon den lies south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are on a cosy beach. The sound of the waves add to the nice atmosphere.\n\nThere is a big hole in the sand here.\n\nThe sound of a massive roar fills the air all over the forest! The dragon has come out of its den!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You are down in the hole that you have dug on the beach.\n\nYet another terrifying dragon roar fills the air. It sounds like the dragon is closing in on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou hear a faint flapping sound, what you believe is the sound of dragon wings. The dragon must be very close now!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nFrom down the hole, you see the huge dragon come flying high up in the air, circling around as if looking for something. You hear a crash as it lands somewhere on the beach. You hear the sound of the dragon crawling nearer and nearer your hole! Suddenly the dragon passes over the hole and lies down, forcing all light out from the hole. You are trapped in darkness beneath the dragon!\n\nYou cannot see anything. It is pitch black. You hear the sound of a beating dragon heart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack dragon", "response": "You stab the dragon with your sword closest to the sound of the beating heart. A massive roar is heard and the dragon throws itself around on the beach. But after some seconds it is all over. The dragon is dead! You climb back up onto the beach. As a trophy, and to fulfil your quest, you cut out the dragon's one eye, the Dragon Diamond!\n\nYou have gotten what you came for so you return to the carriage with the diamond. Without Leon to assist you, you get up in the carriage, take the reins and set off into the sunset where you will experience more adventure.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "\"Happy Canada Day!\", says your friend David. Oh, that's right. It's Canada's 150th anniversary today. You suppose you should go do something Canadian to mark the occasion.\n\n\"Let's go to Tim Hortons for donuts!\" suggests David. Sure. That'll do.\n\nYour apartment has all sorts of nice furnishings, but right now you don't care about any of them because they are not donuts. If you want any donuts, yummy yummy donuts, you'll have to leave the apartment to the east.\n\nYou can see David and your pet hedgehog here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at David", "response": "Oh, you've known David for years. He's a nice guy and all, but he'll talk about obscure bits of interactive fiction at the slightest excuse. And he's played so much \"I. F.\", as he calls it, he has lots of excuses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave the apartment", "response": "I only understood you as far as wanting to leave.\n\n> E\n\nDavid says, \"Bah, humbug. First you comb your hair. Then we can go get donuts.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hedgehog", "response": "You named your hedgehog Kipling because one of his \"Just So Stories\" involves a hedgehog and a tortoise who turned themselves into armadillos. He's not at all cuddly because of his spikes, but on the other hand, he's pretty laidback and has never given you any trouble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You comb hair", "response": "What do you want to comb your hair with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the Kipling", "response": "You pick up the spiky critter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You comb the hair with the Kipling", "response": "You carefully comb your hair, using your hedgehog as a substitute comb. \"I can't believe I'm doing this,\" you say.\n\n\"Did you get my 'Humbug' clue?\" David asks. \"You have to comb your hair with a hedgehog in that game.\"\n\nYou pointedly ignore him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Kipling at David", "response": "You lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Comb david", "response": "(with your pet hedgehog)\nDavid doesn't need combing.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Your apartment has all sorts of nice furnishings, but right now you don't care about any of them because they are not donuts. If you want any donuts, yummy yummy donuts, you'll have to leave the apartment to the east.\n\nYou can see David here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "As you head out the door, you ask \"So why did I have to have nice hair to go to Timmy's? Isn't that a bit silly?\"\n\n\"Not as silly as watching you try to comb your hair with a hedgehog, eh?\" says David, grinning.\n\nSoon the two of you are enjoying a nice breakfast of donuts and double-doubles. But alas, breakfast eventually ends and now you're both standing outside the restaurant, thinking about the future.\n\nLoitering outside a Timmy's isn't a habit you want to get into. You might start questioning why there isn't an apostrophe in \"Tim Hortons\" and such questions lead to madness. Or maybe just to Quebec. Speaking of ways to go, your apartment is back west and an uncertain future is to the east.\n\nDavid says, \"Oh, um, here's a red ketchup I 'borrowed' from the restaurant. You might find it useful later.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ketchup", "response": "Red ketchup is the best ketchup, but that's not saying much. Ketchup never appealed to you much.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the ketchup", "response": "David stops you from possibly making the game unwinnable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hair", "response": "Your hair is all nicely combed. Well done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the furnishings", "response": "As you try to examine your furnishings like some noob player, David says, \"I heard that Timmy's brought Dutchies back.\"\n\n\"Wow, really? I love those things. But I thought they were discontinued.\"\n\n\"They were, but now they're back to celebrate Canada Day.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the furnishings", "response": "They're hardly portable.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Your apartment has all sorts of nice furnishings, but right now you don't care about any of them because the rest of the game is outside the apartment to the east.\n\nYou can see David here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "Loitering outside a Timmy's isn't a habit you want to get into. You might start questioning why there isn't an apostrophe in \"Tim Hortons\" and such questions lead to madness. Or maybe just to Quebec. Speaking of ways to go, your apartment is back west and an uncertain future is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You step into the future...\n\nThe desert island you find yourself on is pretty desolate. The only thing of interest is a lone palm tree.\n\n\"Did that say Dessert Island?\" you ask. \"Shouldn't that be\nDesert Island?\"\n\n\"Yeah, looks like a typo,\" David agrees.\n\nA small motorboat is parked at the edge of the beach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tree", "response": "You know what a palm tree looks like. You suppose you could climb up it if you really wanted to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the motorboat", "response": "David wanted to go on another adventure, so he rented this boat, and long story short, now you're stuck here. Somehow he \"forgot\" to bring enough gas for a return trip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "You climb up the palm tree...\n\nGoodness there's a lot of large leaves up here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the leaves", "response": "These large leaves could be hiding anything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the leaves", "response": "They're hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the leaves", "response": "They're plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Goodness there's a lot of large leaves up here.\n\nYou can see David here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the leaves to David", "response": "(first taking the large leaves)\nThey're hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na red ketchup", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You climb back down the tree.\n\nThe desert island you find yourself on is pretty desolate. The only thing of interest is a lone palm tree.\n\nA small motorboat is parked at the edge of the beach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boat", "response": "David wanted to go on another adventure, so he rented this boat, and long story short, now you're stuck here. Somehow he \"forgot\" to bring enough gas for a return trip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search tree", "response": "Hidden in the shade of the palm tree, you find a can of gasoline. You take it. Why are things always in the last place you look?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The desert island you find yourself on is pretty desolate. The only thing of interest is a lone palm tree.\n\nA small airplane is parked at the edge of the beach.\n\nYou can also see David here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get can", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the airplane", "response": "David wanted to go on another adventure, so he rented this plane, and long story short, now you're stuck here. Somehow he \"forgot\" to bring enough gas for a return trip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "You hand over the can of gasoline. \"Oh, well done,\" says David. \"That's just what we need to get home. Now I can refill the airplane. Er... what's wrong?\"\n\n\"Wasn't that airplane a motorboat before?\"\n\n\"Oh, like in Shade, when the potted hyacinth turned into a cactus? That was really spooky!\"\n\nFeeling a headache coming on, you follow David into the plane for the trip home.\n\nIt's the end of another day. The past is to the west. The future is east.\n\n\"Guess what?\" David asks. \"I found some white chocolate on the plane on the way back. It was in a second hidden compartment inside the first hidden compartment. Here. I think you might need it.\"\n\n\"So what are we doing tomorrow?\" you ask, looking east.\n\n\"I dunno. We'll think of something.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "What a good idea.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "It's the end of another day. The past is to the west. The future is east.\n\nYou can see David here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You walk into the future...\n\nIt seems like you guys decided to do a bit of grocery shopping. There's a lot of different pastas and sauces here. The ends of the aisle are to the north and south.\n\n\"Gnocchi,\" David intones solemnly. \"I haven't had any gnocchi since.... Rome.\"\n\n\"Stop that,\" you say. \"Just... just stop.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pasta", "response": "You peruse the pastas. \"Macaroni, spaghetti, spaghettini, bow-ties, egg noodles,... there's no gnocchi here,\" you tell David.\n\n\"Clare isn't here either,\" he replies.\n\n\"Who's Clare?\"\n\n\"Who do you want her to be?\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "It seems like you guys decided to do a bit of grocery shopping. There's a lot of different pastas and sauces here. The ends of the aisle are to the north and south.\n\nYou can see David here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na white chocolate\na red ketchup\n\n\"Why did I bring food into a grocery store?\" you ask.\n\n\"That's what you're worried about?\" David asks.\n\n\"It's not like I have a receipt for these things you keep giving me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "South", "response": "\"So we're not going to buy anything?\" you ask.\n\n\"Didn't say that,\" David says. \"Aisle meet you outside.\"\n\nNo one deliberately goes to a parking lot for itself. A parking lot isn't a destination. It's an in-between place between where you were and where you're going. Which would be west and east, respectively.\n\n\"Here ya go,\" says David, handing you some blue berries.\n\n\"And these will be useful when?\"\n\n\"Tomorrow\", he says, pointing east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the berries", "response": "You find blueberries very appealing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "One more step into the future...\n\nI gotta say, the United States has some weird tourist traps. Take this \"Tater Island\", a weird potato museum in... well, you're not really sure which state you're in. But it's different, you gotta give it points for originality. The exit is to the west.\n\nA potato peeler is just lying on the ground here!\n\nYou can also see a lunar map here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the peeler", "response": "Wow. You've never found a potato peeler before. \"I don't have to shave a yak with this thing, do I?\" you ask.\n\n\"Of course not, you peel things with it,\" David says, as if\nthis ought to be obvious.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the peeler", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You peel the chocolate with the peeler", "response": "You peel the \"white\" off the white chocolate!\n\nDavid asks, \"That's neat. Can you put the colour back on it too?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the white", "response": "It's the essence of whiteness that you peeled off the chocolate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel berries", "response": "You peel the \"blue\" off the blue berries!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na blue peel\na white peel\na potato peeler\nsome plain berries\na plain chocolate\na red ketchup", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You peel ketchup with peeler", "response": "You peel the \"red\" off the red ketchup!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blue on the ketchup", "response": "Neat. You now have a blue ketchup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blue ketchup", "response": "Blue ketchup? Oh, that's just wrong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You peel the ketchup with the peeler", "response": "You peel the \"blue\" off the blue ketchup!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blue on the ketchup", "response": "Cool. You now have a blue ketchup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na red peel\na white peel\na potato peeler\nsome plain berries\na plain chocolate\na blue ketchup", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put white on the ketchup", "response": "But the blue ketchup is already blue!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the red on the chocolate", "response": "Huh. You now have a red chocolate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the red chocolate", "response": "It's like red velvet cake but without the cake part.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "I gotta say, the United States has some weird tourist traps. Take this \"Tater Island\", a weird potato museum in... well, you're not really sure which state you're in. But it's different, you gotta give it points for originality. The exit is to the west.\n\nYou can see David and a lunar map here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the white on the berries", "response": "Cool. You now have a white berries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at white berries", "response": "Careful. If these white berries are from mistletoe, they'll be very poisonous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the map", "response": "The centerpiece of the musuem is a relief map of the Moon's surface, lovingly rendered in mashed potatoes. You fancy you can hear those musical notes from Close Encounters of the Third Kind in the background.\n\nIn the middle of the map, in the Sea of Tranquility, there is a faded colourless flag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel ketchup", "response": "You peel the \"blue\" off the blue ketchup!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel chocolate", "response": "You peel the \"red\" off the red chocolate!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the red on the flag", "response": "You add the red peel to the faded flag, restoring some of its old glory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel berries", "response": "You peel the \"white\" off the white berries!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the white on the flag", "response": "You add the white peel to the faded flag, restoring some of its old glory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the Blue on the flag", "response": "You add the blue peel to the faded flag, restoring some of its old glory.\n\nThe flag, fully restored to its old glory, proudly displays the Red, White, and Blue for everyone to see. You hear fireworks explode in the sky above.\n\n\"Filfre: gratuitous fireworks,\" David whispers in your ear.\n\n\"Shh,\" you whisper back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "David says, \"I'm sorry. Would you like some tea? Here you go.\" He hands you a green tea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel tea", "response": "You peel the \"green\" off the green tea!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the green on the tea", "response": "Huh. You now have a green tea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tea", "response": "Green tea, eh? How distressingly healthy. Did they flavour this with lawn clippings?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the green on the chocolate", "response": "Neat. You now have a green chocolate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the green chocolate", "response": "Huh. Green chocolate smells like pistachio nuts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na plain tea\na blue peel\na potato peeler\nsome plain berries\na green chocolate\na plain ketchup", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel chocolate", "response": "You peel the \"green\" off the green chocolate!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the green on the ketchup", "response": "Cool. You now have a green ketchup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ketchup", "response": "Is green ketchup made from green tomatoes?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel ketchup", "response": "You peel the \"green\" off the green ketchup!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the green on the berries", "response": "Huh. You now have a green berries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "cheapglulxe quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "\"Happy Canada Day!\", says your friend David. Oh, that's right. It's Canada's 150th anniversary today. You suppose you should go do something Canadian to mark the occasion.\n\n\"Let's go to Tim Hortons for donuts!\" suggests David. Sure. That'll do.\n\nYour apartment has all sorts of nice furnishings, but right now you don't care about any of them because they are not donuts. If you want any donuts, yummy yummy donuts, you'll have to leave the apartment to the east.\n\nYou can see David and your pet hedgehog here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hair", "response": "Your hair is a maze of twisty little protein strands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pet", "response": "You pick up the spiky critter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You comb hair", "response": "(with your pet hedgehog)\nYou carefully comb your hair, using your hedgehog as a substitute comb. \"I can't believe I'm doing this,\" you say.\n\n\"Did you get my 'Humbug' clue?\" David asks. \"You have to comb your hair with a hedgehog in that game.\"\n\nYou pointedly ignore him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "As you head out the door, you ask \"So why did I have to have nice hair to go to Timmy's? Isn't that a bit silly?\"\n\n\"Not as silly as watching you try to comb your hair with a hedgehog, eh?\" says David, grinning.\n\nSoon the two of you are enjoying a nice breakfast of donuts and double-doubles. But alas, breakfast eventually ends and now you're both standing outside the restaurant, thinking about the future.\n\nLoitering outside a Timmy's isn't a habit you want to get into. You might start questioning why there isn't an apostrophe in \"Tim Hortons\" and such questions lead to madness. Or maybe just to Quebec. Speaking of ways to go, your apartment is back west and an uncertain future is to the east.\n\nDavid says, \"Oh, um, here's a red ketchup I 'borrowed' from the restaurant. You might find it useful later.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "\"You can't just walk off the island,\" says David impatiently.\n\n\"I don't see why not. We walked east from Tim Hortons to get here, didn't we?\"\n\n\"No, no, that was yesterday. All sorts of things happened\nbetween then and now. And we rented a boat to get here, remember?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "\"Look, see if you can find some fuel around here. Search everything. There's bound to be something that can help us,\" David says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You climb up the palm tree...\n\nGoodness there's a lot of large leaves up here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search leaves", "response": "Behind a cluster of particularly large leaves, you find a can of gasoline. You take it. Why are things always in the last place you look?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "You climb back down the tree.\n\nThe desert island you find yourself on is pretty desolate. The only thing of interest is a lone palm tree.\n\nA small airplane is parked at the edge of the beach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the can to David", "response": "You hand over the can of gasoline. \"Oh, well done,\" says David. \"That's just what we need to get home. Now I can refill the airplane. Er... what's wrong?\"\n\n\"Wasn't that airplane a motorboat before?\"\n\n\"Oh, like in Shade, when the potted hyacinth turned into a cactus? That was really spooky!\"\n\nFeeling a headache coming on, you follow David into the plane for the trip home.\n\nIt's the end of another day. The past is to the west. The future is east.\n\n\"Guess what?\" David asks. \"I found some white chocolate on the plane on the way back. It was in a second hidden compartment inside the first hidden compartment. Here. I think you might need it.\"\n\n\"So what are we doing tomorrow?\" you ask, looking east.\n\n\"I dunno. We'll think of something.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You step into the past...\n\nNo one deliberately goes to a parking lot for itself. A parking lot isn't a destination. It's an in-between place between where you were and where you're going. Which would be west and east, respectively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You step into the past...\n\nIt's the end of another day. The past is to the west. The future is east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You walk into the past...\n\nLoitering outside a Timmy's isn't a habit you want to get into. You might start questioning why there isn't an apostrophe in \"Tim Hortons\" and such questions lead to madness. Or maybe just to Quebec. Speaking of ways to go, your apartment is back west and an uncertain future is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Your apartment has all sorts of nice furnishings, but right now you don't care about any of them because the rest of the game is outside the apartment to the east.\n\nYou can see your pet hedgehog here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You step into the future...\n\nIt's the end of another day. The past is to the west. The future is east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You walk into the future...\n\nNo one deliberately goes to a parking lot for itself. A parking lot isn't a destination. It's an in-between place between where you were and where you're going. Which would be west and east, respectively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "One more step into the future...\n\nI gotta say, the United States has some weird tourist traps. Take this \"Tater Island\", a weird potato museum in... well, you're not really sure which state you're in. But it's different, you gotta give it points for originality. The exit is to the west.\n\nYou can see a lunar map here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pet on the map", "response": "Putting things on the lunar map would achieve nothing.\n\n> PEEL HEDGEHOG\n\nYou can't peel your pet hedgehog.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel ketchup", "response": "You peel the \"red\" off the red ketchup!\n\nDavid asks, \"That's neat. Can you put the colour back on it too?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel chocolate", "response": "You peel the \"white\" off the white chocolate!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel berries", "response": "You peel the \"blue\" off the blue berries!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel tea", "response": "You peel the \"green\" off the green tea!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Red on the tea", "response": "Neat. You now have a red tea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tea", "response": "Looks like hibiscus tea. Very herbal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tea", "response": "You peel the \"red\" off the red tea!\n\nAmazing. You now have a white tea.\n\nOh nice. You've never had white tea before.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tea", "response": "You peel the \"white\" off the white tea!\n\nHuh. You now have a blue tea.\n\nYou frown. The blue tea smells like elderberries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine ketchup", "response": "You peel the \"blue\" off the blue tea!\n\nCool. You now have a white ketchup.\n\nWhoever heard of white ketchup? Is this ranch dressing now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chocolate", "response": "You peel the \"white\" off the white ketchup!\n\nHuh. You now have a blue chocolate.\n\nYou look at the blue chocolate with horror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put red on the berries", "response": "Cool. You now have a red berries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the berries", "response": "They're not strawberries or raspberries. They're some other sort of red berries that you don't recognize.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "David says, \"Hm. You've already got tea, so I'll have to give you no tea.\" He then somehow hands you no tea which makes the tea you were carrying vanish.\n\n\"You wouldn't believe how useful a lack of common sense can be, sometimes,\" David remarks as if quoting a guide book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na white peel\na green peel\nyour pet hedgehog\na potato peeler\nsome red berries\na blue chocolate\na plain ketchup", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "David says, \"I'm sorry. Would you like some tea? Here you go.\" He hands you a green tea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na plain tea\na white peel\na green peel\nyour pet hedgehog\na potato peeler\nsome red berries\na blue chocolate\na plain ketchup", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the tea", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Loitering outside a Timmy's isn't a habit you want to get into. You might start questioning why there isn't an apostrophe in \"Tim Hortons\" and such questions lead to madness. Or maybe just to Quebec. Speaking of ways to go, your apartment is back west and an uncertain future is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the hair", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hair", "response": "That seems to be a part of yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "cheapglulxe quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "Inform 7", "parser" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "The rays of the morning sun tickle your face, waking you up. That's a pleasant surprise - the forecast said it would be rainy for days. However, looking out of the window, you see that there are no clouds in the sky. How did they get it so wrong?\n\nIt's quiet and peaceful. Out of habit, you reach for your mobile\nphone on the nightstand to browse through the morning headlines. Still lying down in your bed, covering your eyes from the sun with one hand, you start scrolling down the newsfeed when a headline catches your attention: \"Half-Life 3 Confirmed!\"\n\nQuickly, you sit up. For a moment you feel a huge sense of happiness. The long-awaited sequel of your favourite action game is finally going to come true. More monsters to shoot! More headcrabs to bash with your crowbar! Finally expel the Combine from the\nface of the Earth? Soon afterwards, however, you come to your senses. No way is any of that going to happen. Reality, you realize with sudden alarm, must be seriously warped.\n\nYou become fully awake and alert. This is no laughing matter. Your primary task is to get safely - or at least alive - out of the building. And if you're lucky enough, maybe sort out this reality enwarpment and restore matters to normal.\n\nYou get up and dressed quickly. There is no time to lose.\n\nA yeah sure by Anssi Räisänen\n\nYour bedroom looks normal enough. Well, now that you take a second look, maybe that black hole in the floor shouldn't really be there. Beside your bed is a small nightstand. A wardrobe stands opposite your bed and there's a writing desk by the window. There is a door in the northeastern corner of the room, leading to the hallway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hole", "response": "It seems to be some kind of vortex that you might try to enter. The question is - would that be a wise thing to do?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hole", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wardrobe", "response": "You see a snowy landscape behind the clothes hanging inside the wardrobe. No, it's just the back wall, after all.\n\nYou close the wardrobe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the nightstand", "response": "The small white-painted nightstand has one drawer in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "It's locked.\nStrange; you usually keep it open, with the key in the lock. But the key is not in the lock presently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You're carrying a mobile phone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "Ordinarily nothing special. But today somebody has drawn a treasure map on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the map", "response": "There is a big X on the right side, or the east side, of an irregular line which you take to be a river or a road. The X is inside a circle, but it is impossible to guess what the circle represents. The whole map is probably a hoax.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the map", "response": "That's hardly portable. Instead, you memorize the map. (To refer to the map, RECALL it.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying a mobile phone.\n\nYou can also recall a map drawn on your bedroom desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "The hallway connects all the rooms in your apartment. The living-room is to the east while the kitchen is to the west and your bedroom is to the southwest. Rather unnervingly, the front door leading out, to the south, seems to have disappeared completely. Somewhat unexpectedly, there seems to be an extra room to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "On the kitchen table are some leftovers of the pizza that you ordered last night but couldn't finish. The hallway is to the east.\n\nA pig is standing on its hind legs, leaning against the kitchen table and eating the leftovers of the pizza.\n\nA stove stands in the corner.\n\nYou can also see a fridge (closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pig", "response": "A fat pig is standing on its hind legs, leaning against the kitchen table and eating away. Too bad you didn't bother putting the leftover bits of last night's pizza into the fridge. Then again, you didn't expect a pig.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the pig", "response": "Please ASK PERSON ABOUT THING or TELL PERSON ABOUT THING to converse with somebody.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You cannot reach the fridge presently - the fat pig blocks the way. It makes an angry squeal when you make a gesture of approaching it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stove", "response": "The four burners flash in bright neon colours - red, blue, green and orange. It is rather unsettling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "There are some pizza leftovers on the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Normally it is of course a charming living-room. You see a sofa, a table and a television here. The exit is to the west.\n\nOn the table is a small key.\n\nYou can also see a mud monster here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the monster", "response": "It's little more than a pile of mud. It has no legs but you are able to distinguish a pair of limbs that might pass as arms. It has a barely discernible face but you are not sure if it has eyes. It loiters silently in the middle of the room. Drops of mud are dripping from it onto your exquisite carpet. So not cool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "The mud monster blocks the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying a mobile phone.\n\nYou can also recall a map drawn on your bedroom desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is a small featureless room, no bigger than a closet. There is a metal ladder ascending straight up into the darkness. The upper end of the ladder is not visible. The exit is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the tv", "response": "That's already on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "The television shows psychedelic, ever-changing kaleidoscopic images on the screen, accompanied by good old-style march music. Is that Sousa?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sofa", "response": "There's a time to relax and a time to save the world. This is the latter, and the sofa is not needed for that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "On the table is a small key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the monster", "response": "He's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You feel unsafe going up into the darkness without any kind of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Beside your bed is a small nightstand. A wardrobe stands opposite your bed and there's a writing desk by the window. There is an inexplicable black hole in the floor. There is a door in the northeastern corner of the room, leading to the hallway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "Through the tenth-floor window, you make out the outline of the city and its numerous high-rises, similar to the one you live in. The city looks the same as usual - well, not quite. There are a couple of tall buildings in the distance that weren't there yesterday. It's eerily quiet - no sounds of traffic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the window", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the hole", "response": "Something tells you it's not the time yet. You need to prepare yourself somehow first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying a mobile phone.\n\nYou can also recall a map drawn on your bedroom desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "The mobile phone screen shows presently the weather forecast for the moon. Seems to be clear skies with a low probability of rain. Warning for fog though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You switch on the phone", "response": "That's already on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You switch off the phone", "response": "You prefer to have it on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "That's a wall there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "On the kitchen table are some leftovers of the pizza that you ordered last night but couldn't finish. The hallway is to the east.\n\nA pig is standing on its hind legs, leaning against the kitchen table and eating the leftovers of the pizza.\n\nA stove stands in the corner.\n\nYou can also see a fridge (closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "The mobile phone screen shows presently the top 20 chart for this week. An actually good song is at #1.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill the pig", "response": "The pig turns to you angrily and flashes its fierce red eyes at you. Then it notices the tail of your T-shirt where you wiped your fingers last night - you ate a chocolate bar and wiped your messy fingers on the shirt. The pig smells the chocolate and starts tugging at your shirt. Ecch. Should have put on a clean shirt today.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "You give a slap to the irritating creature, but it just starts tugging your shirt again. Now isn't that sweet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The hallway connects all the rooms in your apartment. The living-room is to the east while the kitchen is to the west and your bedroom is to the southwest. Rather unnervingly, the front door leading out, to the south, seems to have disappeared completely. Somewhat unexpectedly, there seems to be an extra room to the north.\n\nThe pig follows you, tugging at your T-shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Normally it is of course a charming living-room. You see a sofa, a table and a television here. The exit is to the west.\n\nOn the table is a small key.\n\nYou can also see a mud monster here.\n\nThe pig follows you, tugging at your T-shirt.\n\nThe pig sees the mud monster, becomes afraid and disappears back into the kitchen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "Beside your bed is a small nightstand. A wardrobe stands opposite your bed and there's a writing desk by the window. There is an inexplicable black hole in the floor. There is a door in the northeastern corner of the room, leading to the hallway.\n\nThe pig follows you, tugging at your T-shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "On the kitchen table are some leftovers of the pizza that you ordered last night but couldn't finish. The hallway is to the east.\n\nA stove stands in the corner.\n\nYou can also see a fridge (closed) here.\n\nThe pig follows you, tugging at your T-shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You don't dare to open the fridge while the pig is in the kitchen. If it's this excited about your chocolate-stained shirt, who knows with what fervour it will attack the contents of the fridge once they are exposed. No, you need to get the pig out of the kitchen first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack monster", "response": "That wouldn't be very wise. When you even approach it a bit more, it gives out a small zap and you feel an electric charge through your body. Got to think of something else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is a small featureless room, no bigger than a closet. There is a metal ladder ascending straight up into the darkness. The upper end of the ladder is not visible. The exit is to the south.\n\nThe pig follows you, tugging at your T-shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at bed", "response": "It's your plain but comfy and trusted bed. You already made it, although I didn't mention it specifically.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The hallway connects all the rooms in your apartment. The living-room is to the east while the kitchen is to the west and your bedroom is to the southwest. Rather unnervingly, the front door leading out, to the south, seems to have disappeared completely. Somewhat unexpectedly, there seems to be an extra room to the north.\n\nThe fat pig is here, tugging your T-shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the phone", "response": "The mobile phone screen shows presently your contact list: ExprezzPizza, Kate, Mr Furroughs (your college teacher), Mum, Chuck Norris.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Kate", "response": "There is no answer. Just like in normal reality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the mr furroughs", "response": "There is an automatic message: \"Sorry, I cannot take your call right now. Please leave a message after the beep. If you're one of my students making a prank call, please leave your message after the second beep.\" There's a beep. You wait for a while, but the second beep never comes. He got you alright.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call Chuck Norris", "response": "Chuck Norris is not afraid of warped realities. On the contrary, if Chuck Norris is unsatisfied with reality, he warps it himself until he's happy with it.\n\nEncouraged by remembering this, you dial his number, but there is no answer. Then you remember that Chuck Norris doesn't need to answer the phone. He already knows what you'd be going to say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the ExprezzPizza", "response": "\"Sorry, closed due to reality enwarpment.\" At least they're up to date with things. (And seems like \"enwarpment\" indeed is a word now.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the Mum", "response": "Mum answers, of course.\n\"Mum, reality is warped!\"\n\"Oh, really? Remember to dress warmly when you go out, then. I'm off to the hairdresser's. Byee!\"\n...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the carpet", "response": "Your white, exquisite living-room carpet is stained with mud that has been dripping from the monster.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the carpet", "response": "You pull the carpet forcefully. The mud monster loses its balance and form. Soon there is nothing else left but a puddle of mud on the floor. That was handled elegantly -- well, almost. You can't really be happy with the floor all covered in brown sludge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Normally it is of course a charming living-room. You see a sofa, a table and a television here. The exit is to the west.\n\nThere is a big puddle of mud on the floor.\n\nOn the table is a small key.\n\nThe pig follows you, tugging at your T-shirt.\n\nThe pig sees the mud on the floor, approaches it and starts to wallow in it. It really seems to enjoy itself and forgets everything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "On the kitchen table are some leftovers of the pizza that you ordered last night but couldn't finish. The hallway is to the east.\n\nA stove stands in the corner.\n\nYou can also see a fridge (closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You open the fridge, revealing a bottle of whiskey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the whiskey", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Normally it is of course a charming living-room. You see a sofa, a table and a television here. The exit is to the west.\n\nThere is a big puddle of mud on the floor. A pig is wallowing happily in it.\n\nOn the table is a small key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock drawer", "response": "(with the small key)\nYou unlock the drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You open the drawer, revealing a flashlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You switch on the flashlight", "response": "You switch the flashlight on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You live in a normal condominium building with definitely no jazz club anywhere in it. Anyway, here you are, in a smoky, atmospheric club with a lazy crowd in murky tables - murky because of the thick cigarette smoke present. From here you can go down, back to your apartment.\n\nThree accordion players are performing on a small stage.\n\nA small birdcage stands near the stage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cage", "response": "It's a small metal cage.\n\nIn the cage is a canary bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bird", "response": "It's a small yellow bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open cage", "response": "But the small bird might fly away!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cage", "response": "\"Hey, you there.\" interrupts one of the players. \"Isn't it a beautiful creature? You can have the bird, but just give us a bottle of whiskey in exchange. Fair, ha?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the whiskey to the player", "response": "You give the bottle of whiskey to the band. They thank you and one of them says:\n\n\"Here, have this bird as a token of our gratitude. Take good care of it; it has accompanied us in some very dark places. May it bring you luck in your times of distress, too.\"\n\nThey hand the cage to you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You live in a normal condominium building with definitely no jazz club anywhere in it. Anyway, here you are, in a smoky, atmospheric club with a lazy crowd in murky tables - murky because of the thick cigarette smoke present. From here you can go down, back to your apartment.\n\nThree accordion players are performing on a small stage.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You descend the ladder.\n\nThis is a small featureless room, no bigger than a closet. There is a metal ladder ascending straight up into the darkness. The upper end of the ladder is not visible. The exit is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The hallway connects all the rooms in your apartment. The living-room is to the east while the kitchen is to the west and your bedroom is to the southwest. Rather unnervingly, the front door leading out, to the south, seems to have disappeared completely. Somewhat unexpectedly, there seems to be an extra room to the north.\n\nBeside your bed is a small nightstand. A wardrobe stands opposite your bed and there's a writing desk by the window. There is an inexplicable black hole in the floor. There is a door in the northeastern corner of the room, leading to the hallway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the hole", "response": "You feel now that you ready to enter the vortex. With the small bird as your companion, what harm could possibly happen to you?\n\nYou're standing outside your apartment, on the tenth floor landing of the condominium. In a way, finding yourself here is a sort of anticlimax; on the other hand, you're happy that you managed to escape from your apartment. Some doors leading to other apartments on this floor are visible, but the front door of your apartment is still nowhere to be seen. Ordinarily a flight of stairs, to the left of the elevator, leads down and another one, to the right of the elevator, leads up. Presently, however, both flights of stairs have disappeared and there are just two abysses that you feel dizzy gazing into. Well, there's always the elevator. Conveniently, it happens to be right here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the elevator", "response": "The elevator is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the elevator", "response": "Finding no other sensible alternative, you decide to enter the elevator.\n\nYou're inside the elevator. There are only two buttons, up and down. That should make things simple.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You deem it not worth starting to walk randomly in the knee-deep water. Also, entering any of the buildings around you looks highly unsafe.\n\nOut of nowhere, a small boat without any oars floats into your reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "You get into the boat.\n\nA strong current leads the boat forward between the towering buildings. Soon you're out of town. Even the highest buildings disappear into the horizon, and there's nothing but water in sight.\n\nThe current pushes the boat northward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe current pushes the boat northward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cage", "response": "It's a small metal cage.\n\nIn the cage is a canary bird.\n\nThe current pushes the boat northward.\n\nYou see a tiny island looming in the horizon, to the north.\n\nA wedge of pigs, in a perfect V-formation, flies past far above your head and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe current pushes the boat northward.\n\nThe island is getting closer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe current pushes the boat northward.\n\nThe island is getting closer.\n\nYour boat reaches the island which now looks rather big; it must be over a mile wide. When the boat touches the ground, you get off it and wade to the shore. A yawning hippopotamus appears from nowhere. The boat disappears in its huge jaws and the hippopotamus swims away.\n\nYou are standing on the shore of an island. A path leads up the slightly ascending cliff to a wide red curtain, the kind you might see in a theatre. The shore continues to the west and to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "This is a particulary stony part of the shoreline. You can go back to the west to where you originally landed on the island, but the landscape becomes impassable in other direction due to thick vegetation.\n\nThe wreck of a small cargo ship lies on the stones here.\n\nYou can also see a crowbar here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "It is a rusty old crowbar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wreck", "response": "It is an old cargo vessel. Some gunnysacks lie on the rocks around the wreck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sacks", "response": "Sacks made of rough burlap. A couple have broken, revealing sunflower seeds inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the seeds", "response": "You take some sunflower seeds from an open sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You're carrying some sunflower seeds, a crowbar and a cage.\n\nYou can also recall a map drawn on your bedroom desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recall the map", "response": "You think about the treasure map you found drawn on your bedroom desk. There was an irregular line (a river or a road) going across the map , and to the right, or east, of it was a big X. The X was inside a circle, but it was difficult to guess what the circle could represent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are standing on the shore of an island. A path leads up the slightly ascending cliff to a wide red curtain, the kind you might see in a theatre. The shore continues to the west and to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a small sandy stretch of the island shore. There's various flotsam and jetsam here. You can go back to the east to where you originally landed on the island, but the landscape becomes impassable in other directions due to steep cliffs.\n\nYou can see a bowler hat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine hat", "response": "It's a slightly worn but still usable bowler hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hat", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear it", "response": "You put on the bowler hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You find a gap in the wide, red curtain and enter it.\n\nYou're standing alone on a large theatre stage. The house is full, with the audience waiting for your next move in the dark auditorium. Even the balconies, to the second and third floors, are seated to the last place. A fat, wealthy man sitting in one of the boxes eyes you through a pair of opera glasses. The red curtain is behind you.\n\nThe audience bursts into a wild applause seeing you. You feel you have to give them your best shot. Now, let's see... you can sing, dance and whistle. Or at least you think you can.\n\nThe audience shifts restlessly, waiting for your next move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You start your Vaudeville act. Wearing the bowler hat and using the crowbar as a makeshift cane, you manage to convince the crowd to an extent, in spite of your lacking dancing abilities. However, you shouldn't have opened your mouth; your singing and whistling are still abominable. Maybe you should find someone who is better at it than you are.\n\nYou stop as the crowd boos angrily.\n\nThe audience shifts restlessly, waiting for your next move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "It's a small metal cage.\n\nIn the cage is a canary bird.\n\nThe audience shifts restlessly, waiting for your next move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bird", "response": "It's a small yellow bird.\n\nThe audience shifts restlessly, waiting for your next move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the seeds to the bird", "response": "The cage isn't open.\n\nThe audience shifts restlessly, waiting for your next move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cage", "response": "You open the cage carefully and give some seeds for the canary bird to eat. It pecks them for a while and starts then chirping happily from its heart's content.\n\nThe audience is stunned by the performance and is now waiting for you to complete the show.\n\nThe audience shifts restlessly, waiting for your next move.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Whistle", "response": "You start your Vaudeville act to the chirping of the bird. As it takes care of the singing/whistling part of the performance, your job is just to dance. Wearing the bowler hat and using the crowbar as a makeshift cane, you manage to convince the crowd in spite of your lacking dancing abilities. In fact, they are quite charmed, and the applause at the end of your one-man and one-bird show is deafening.\n\nSomeone who looks like the theatre manager comes to the stage and shakes your hand.\n\n\"That was absolutely fantastic\", he congratulates, \"now, please, let us escort you out.\"\n\nA horse-drawn carriage drawn by two white horses appears from the backstage and you enter it. The horses then lead the carriage down a ramp from the stage and pull the carriage through the central aisle of the auditorium while the crowd on both sides of the aisle claps in a standing ovation and shouts bravo.\n\nOnce you're out of the main doors, you step out of the carriage. The horses disappear back into the theatre and the main doors close with a bang. Gosh, was that weird or what. Again, you're on your own.\n\nYou're on a north-south path in a forest. To the south is a theatre while to the north the path disappears into the trees. The theatre itself seems to be in the middle of the forest, a cultural oddity in the general wilderness of things.\n\nSomeone has left a shovel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shovel", "response": "You try to pull the shovel out of the ground, but it is stuck surprisingly stubbornly. The task is made the more difficult as the handle is missing. As you keep pulling, the shaft of the shovel comes loose. The blade remains in the soil and cannot be retrieved. You take a look at the dark shaft you're holding. It has a white end that was not visible when the shovel still was intact. Hey, it's a magic wand!\n\nThere is a loud sound, and the ground is shaking. Somewhere nearby, a meteorite must have hit the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wand", "response": "It is magic wand with a black shaft and a white end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave wand", "response": "Nothing happens.\n\nA bright ball of fire is seen falling from the sky in the distance and splashing into the sea far away from here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You're on a north-south path in a forest. To the south is a theatre while to the north the path disappears into the trees. The theatre itself seems to be in the middle of the forest, a cultural oddity in the general wilderness of things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is a grassy stretch of land, near a lonely tree. To the south is a forest and to the northwest you see a small bare hill. A river flows from the north to the south, to your east. A path leads south. In other directions, the landscape becomes more difficult to pass.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "A river flows swiftly past.\n\nIn the bright daylight, you see a shooting star in the sky as a big meteor enters the atmosphere and burns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ground", "response": "You notice nothing special about the ground here.\n\nThere is a loud sound, and the ground is shaking. Somewhere nearby, a meteorite must have hit the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "It's a thin, leafy tree; you can't recognize the species. There is a small nest on one of the lower branches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the nest", "response": "The small nest, made of grass and leaves, is empty.\n\nThe canary bird starts chirping excitedly when you go nearer the nest.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cage", "response": "You open the cage. The small canary bird flies into the nest. After a moment you notice that it has started to hatch an egg. The egg grows abnormally big. A strong, sudden gust of wind blows the egg out of the nest and it falls onto the ground, breaking and revealing a human head. The small bird is startled and flies to the top of the tree. The head is that of an old man with orange hair and an orange beard. It quickly grows to a natural size and, jutting on the ground, starts to orate with a loud, pealing voice:\n\n\"Beware. These are perilous times. The asteroid belt is colliding\nwith the orbit of the Earth, and consequently the stars are falling. Only when the green crystal of Drunral is retrieved and returned to the pedestal on top of Mount Ganerva, can peace and order be restored. Go, fool!\" the head almost screams. \"There's no time to lose!\"\n\nThe head stops talking. A passing eagle grabs it and as it is flying away, the head shouts: \"Doom! Doom!\" before disappearing altogether.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nIn the bright daylight, you see a shooting star in the sky as a big meteor enters the atmosphere and burns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You're standing on the top of a small hill. This must be \"Mount Ganerva\" referred to by the talking head, as there are no other elevated places on the whole island. You can go southeast, down the slope. In other directions the slope is too difficult to climb down. In all directions you see a forested island, at least three miles wide.You see a couple of deep craters in the distance, billowing smoke.\n\nA pedestal stands empty on top the hill.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "This is a grassy stretch of land, near a lonely tree. To the south is a forest and to the northwest you see a small bare hill. A river flows from the north to the south, to your east. A path leads south. In other directions, the landscape becomes more difficult to pass.\n\nThe canary bird is singing happily in the tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave wand", "response": "You would have liked to see something like a crystal bridge now spanning the river, but all that appears is a narrow wooden plank going across. Of course, it's better than nothing.\n\nThere is a loud sound, and the ground is shaking. Somewhere nearby, a meteorite must have hit the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The grassy stretch of land continues here. The forest is some way off in all directions except to the west where you see open grassland and a lone tree across the river. There is a hut a short way to the north and a round structure to the southeast.\n\nA narrow plank spans the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are standing outside a small wooden hut that seems abandoned a long time ago. From here, you can go back south to where you crossed the river.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hut", "response": "The small wooden hut must have been abandones years ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open hut", "response": "It isn't something you can open.\n\nIn the bright daylight, you see a shooting star in the sky as a big meteor enters the atmosphere and burns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter hut", "response": "It is clear that no-one has lived here in a long time. The floor of the single room here is littered with old junk. Mice are running about on the floor. It's really a place you don't want to stay long in.\n\nYou can see a shovel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shovel", "response": "Taken.\n\nThere is a loud sound, and the ground is shaking. Somewhere nearby, a meteorite must have hit the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mice", "response": "Some grey mice are running about on the dirty floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the mice about the crystal", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You are standing outside a small wooden hut that seems abandoned a long time ago. From here, you can go back south to where you crossed the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The grassy stretch of land continues here. The forest is some way off in all directions except to the west where you see open grassland and a lone tree across the river. There is a hut a short way to the north and a round structure to the southeast.\n\nA narrow plank spans the river.\n\nA bright ball of fire is seen falling from the sky in the distance and splashing into the sea far away from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You are standing just outside an outdoor circus ring. There are low wooden railings, up to the height of one meter, around the arena, so it is rather easy to enter. Elephants are going in a circle in the ring, urged by their trainer in the middle. From here you can go northwest to the river crossing, or you could try to enter the arena proper.\n\nYou can see a trainer here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trainer", "response": "He is urging the elephants to continue going around in the circus ring.\n\nThere is a loud sound, and the ground is shaking. Somewhere nearby, a meteorite must have hit the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the elephants", "response": "About ten elephants are going around the ring in a circle, urged by their trainer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You're carrying a shovel, a magic wand, some sunflower seeds, a crowbar and a cage.\n\nYou can also recall a map drawn on your bedroom desk.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the arena", "response": "You might get trampled by the elephants if you venture into the ring presently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the trainer about arena", "response": "He is too concentrated on his present task.\n\nIn the bright daylight, you see a shooting star in the sky as a big meteor enters the atmosphere and burns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The grassy stretch of land continues here. The forest is some way off in all directions except to the west where you see open grassland and a lone tree across the river. There is a hut a short way to the north and a round structure to the southeast.\n\nA narrow plank spans the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are standing outside a small wooden hut that seems abandoned a long time ago. From here, you can go back south to where you crossed the river.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "It is clear that no-one has lived here in a long time. The floor of the single room here is littered with old junk. Mice are running about on the floor. It's really a place you don't want to stay long in.\n\nA bright ball of fire is seen falling from the sky in the distance and splashing into the sea far away from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mice", "response": "You manage to catch a couple of the mice.\n\nIn the bright daylight, you see a shooting star in the sky as a big meteor enters the atmosphere and burns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You are standing outside a small wooden hut that seems abandoned a long time ago. From here, you can go back south to where you crossed the river.\n\nThere is a loud sound, and the ground is shaking. Somewhere nearby, a meteorite must have hit the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You are standing just outside an outdoor circus ring. There are low wooden railings, up to the height of one meter, around the arena, so it is rather easy to enter. Elephants are going in a circle in the ring, urged by their trainer in the middle. From here you can go northwest to the river crossing, or you could try to enter the arena proper.\n\nYou can see a trainer here.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the mice", "response": "You set the mice free and they run onto the ring where the elephants, noticing them, go berserk and escape the arena in panic, without the trainer being able to do anything to stop them. The trainer runs after the elephants and soon all have disappeared from sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the arena", "response": "You are standing inside a small circus ring with a soft, sandy floor. The ring is empty.\n\nThere is a loud sound, and the ground is shaking. Somewhere nearby, a meteorite must have hit the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "What do you want to dig?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sand", "response": "You start digging in the middle of the circus ring and soon enough find a green crystal! It must be the green crystal of Drunral - whatever Drunral is.\n\nYou pick up the crystal from the ground and admire its brightness against the sunlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crystal", "response": "It is a beautiful crystal emanating green light.\n\nIn the bright daylight, you see a shooting star in the sky as a big meteor enters the atmosphere and burns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You are standing just outside an outdoor circus ring. There are low wooden railings, up to the height of one meter, around the arena, so it is rather easy to enter. From here you can go northwest to the river crossing, or you could try to enter the arena proper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The grassy stretch of land continues here. The forest is some way off in all directions except to the west where you see open grassland and a lone tree across the river. There is a hut a short way to the north and a round structure to the southeast.\n\nA narrow plank spans the river.\n\nA bright ball of fire is seen falling from the sky in the distance and splashing into the sea far away from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You walk across the plank.\n\nThis is a grassy stretch of land, near a lonely tree. To the south is a forest and to the northwest you see a small bare hill. A river flows from the north to the south, to your east. A path leads south. In other directions, the landscape becomes more difficult to pass.\n\nThe canary bird is singing happily in the tree.\n\nA narrow plank now spans the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nA meteorite shoots across the sky and disappears into the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You're standing on the top of a small hill. This must be \"Mount Ganerva\" referred to by the talking head, as there are no other elevated places on the whole island. You can go southeast, down the slope. In other directions the slope is too difficult to climb down. In all directions you see a forested island, at least three miles wide.You see a couple of deep craters in the distance, billowing smoke.\n\nA pedestal stands empty on top the hill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the crystal on pedestal", "response": "You place the crystal onto the pedestal. It fits perfectly into a small, almost unnoticeable dent in it. Something clicks, and the crystal starts to glow a bright green light.\n\nSoon, an alien vessel descends from the sky, zapping a couple of passing meteorites into dust as it approaches. A platform is lowered from the bottom of the craft, and two figures clad in grey costumes walk out.\n\n\"Greetings, earthling!\" they say, \"greetings from Drunral. You have summoned us and we have come. Our fleet will protect the Earth from further asteroids and meteorites; worry not. And as you did the heroic deed of summoning us, how about a cruise to our planet? We might be boring-looking but we sure know how to party! Oh, the endless disco nights and hot beach holidays! The unbelievable student bacchanals! We'll bring you back in a year's time. Don't you think you've deserved a break?!\"\n\nYou can't argue that. Stepping onto the platform and ascending into the ship, you walk amidst the two strangers, putting your arms around their shoulders.\n\n\"Gentlemen,\" you say, \"I think this the beginning of a beautiful friendship.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake up", "response": "The dreadful truth is, this is not a dream.\n\nThere is a loud sound, and the ground is shaking. Somewhere nearby, a meteorite must have hit the ground.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "walkthrough", "wordplay" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "You look at the lace", "response": "When you look closely, you see the lacy chest decoration shimmer and shift in the light. The effect reminds you of the buildings in the city of Illusions.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You examine troll", "response": "The troll has a big club and it looks tough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lace", "response": "You try taking the lacy chest decoration, but mysteriously find that it passes right through your fingers. It must be an illusion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the lace", "response": "The lacy chest decoration was never hidden to begin with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the troll", "response": "The troll growls menacingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give lace to you", "response": "(the troll first taking the lacy chest decoration)\nThe troll has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "(first opening the mahogany door)\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The door has a slender keyhole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the troll", "response": "With your bare hands? Not a chance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the key", "response": "You found a hidden key!\nYou take it.\n\nA troll stands here menacingly, ready to give you a blacK EYe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the key", "response": "You unlock the mahogany door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "(first opening the mahogany door)\n\nIn the center of this room hangs a heavy counter; bait is tied to a thick red rope vanishing up into a hole in the ceiling.\n\nExits lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the counter", "response": "When you look closely, you see the kitchen counter shimmer and shift in the light. The effect reminds you of the buildings in the city of Illusions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bait", "response": "When you look closely, you see the wriggling worm shimmer and shift in the light. The effect reminds you of the buildings in the city of Illusions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rope", "response": "It is made of thick red twine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the lance", "response": "You found a hidden spear!\nYou take it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "In the center of this room hangs a heavy counterbaLANCE. It is tied to a thick red rope vanishing up into a hole in the ceiling.\n\nExits lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stand on a balcony. You're standing in a tone, can assume, given the stage below you and the array of spotlights above.\n\nStairs descend to the stage below. Also, a passage returns to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tone", "response": "When you listen closely, you hear the musical tone waver and shift pitch. The effect reminds you of the birdsong in the city of Illusions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the spotlight", "response": "Spotlights was never hidden to begin with.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the spotlights", "response": "The spotlights illuminate the stage below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the heater", "response": "You found a hidden heater!\nYou take it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the heater", "response": "The oil heater is currently off. It needs a flame to operate.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You stand on a balcony. You're standing in a tHEATER, one can assume, given the stage below you and the array of spotlights above.\n\nStairs descend to the stage below. Also, a passage returns to the north.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "(first opening Stairs)\n\nYou stand on a wooden stage. In front of the stage, between you and the audience seats, is a cavernous pit. Down in the pit, you can barely hear a pie strap laying faint strains of music.\n\nStairs lead back up to the balcony. You can go backstage to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pie strap", "response": "When you look closely, you see the delicious pie fastener shimmer and shift in the light. The effect reminds you of the buildings in the city of Illusions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the orchestra", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\n> FIND ORC\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the torch", "response": "You found a hidden torch!\nYou take it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You stand on a wooden stage. In front of the stage, between you and the audience seats, is a cavernous pit. Down in the pit, you can barely hear a piT ORCHestra playing faint strains of music.\n\nStairs lead back up to the balcony. You can go backstage to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the torch", "response": "It burns brightly. It's not a flashlight because we're not in Britain. You could use it to BURN stuff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "There's a prop table here. On the table, you see acre, a Mecler Nickel, bread, and a butter croissant.\n\nThe stage is back west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the eclair", "response": "Unfortunately, it's just a prop, and it's fixed to the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find airpump", "response": "You found a hidden air pump!\nYou take it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "There's a prop table here. On the table, you see a cream eclAIR, PUMPernickel bread, and a butter croissant.\n\nThe stage is back west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the croissant", "response": "It is mouthwateringly accurate, but unfortunately, it's just a prop.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Jump into the pit? No way. You can't even see the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan air pump\na torch\na heater\na spear\na key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lance", "response": "This lance, or spear, has a long shaft and a fine point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the key", "response": "It looks custom-built for fitting into locks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You stand on a balcony. You're standing in a tHEATER, one can assume, given the stage below you and the array of spotlights above.\n\nStairs descend to the stage below. Also, a passage returns to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "In the center of this room hangs a heavy counterbaLANCE. It is tied to a thick red rope vanishing up into a hole in the ceiling.\n\nExits lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb rope", "response": "(Just type \"up\" or \"down\".)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The hole in the ceiling is way too small.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the rope", "response": "Cutting it up would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A troll stands here menacingly, ready to give you a blacK EYe.\n\nA passage continues south. The troll guards the north exit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stab troll", "response": "You plunge your spear into the troll's flesh. The troll squeals and runs away far to the north!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the rope", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A human-sized black-feathered bird sits on a perch here. \"Caw! No wings and no claws? You sure look stupid.\" It ruffles its feathers. \"Wanna hear a pun? You're a Cro-Magnon, and I row\nmignon!\n\nAnyway, if you wanna open that door, gimme a snack.\"\n\nIt's referring to a closed rune-covered door to the north. An open passage leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the mac", "response": "You found a hidden apple! (Specifically, a red fruit of the cultivar Mac.)\nYou take it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Mac", "response": "It's a juicy-looking apple. Specifically, a Mac.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A human-sized black-feathered bird sits on a perch here. \"Caw! No wings and no claws? You sure look stupid.\" It ruffles its feathers. \"Wanna hear a pun? You're a Cro-Magnon, and I'M A\nCrow mignon!\n\nAnyway, if you wanna open that door, gimme a snack.\"\n\nIt's referring to a closed rune-covered door to the north. An open passage leads south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the Mac to the crow", "response": "The crow devours the apple. \"Caw, yum. So my snack was here all along.\" The crow performs a complicated feather dance, and the runed door slides open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "As you leave the room, the crow flies down and snatches your spear. \"Caw! Shiny!\" The crow quickly flies away to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cro- VS crow", "response": "To the north, a paved road ends in a long upward ramp overlooking a 50-foot-wide canyon. Passages lead south and east. The road continues west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Here, the giant crow sits on an equally giant nest, looking at you smugly. \"Caw-ha! Gotcher pointy shiny thing!\"\n\nPeeking behind it, you see that your stop earliest other ear of the nest.\n\nThe only way out is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at stop", "response": "When you look closely, you see the bus stop shimmer and shift in the light. The effect reminds you of the buildings in the city of Illusions.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Here, the giant crow sits on an equally giant nest, looking at you smugly.\n\nPeeking behind it, you see that your stop earliest other ear of the nest.\n\nThe only way out is west.\n\n> FIND RING\n\nYou can't see any such thing.\n\n> FIND STOLEN\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the lens", "response": "You found a hidden lens!\nYou take it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Here, the giant crow sits on an equally giant nest, looking at you smugly.\n\nPeeking behind it, you see that your stoLEN Spear lies to the rear of the nest.\n\nThe only way out is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Spear", "response": "The crow blocks you with a giant feathery wing. \"Caw-haw! Without that spear, you think you can scare me?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lens", "response": "It's a small magnifying lens. Try EXAMINE NEST WITH LENS.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the NEST with the lens", "response": "The lens magnifies the nest, but it's unclear how this helps you. (OK, bad example.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the NEST", "response": "A messy tangle of branches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "To the north, a paved road ends in a long upward ramp overlooking a 50-foot-wide canyon. Passages lead south and east. The road continues west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The corridor ends here. The only exit is back to the east.\n\nA small car is here. Unfortunately, it has AFL.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find attire", "response": "You found some hidden clothing!\nYou take it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clothing", "response": "It's a full set of clothing, including a hat and shoes. Looks like something a farmer would wear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the car", "response": "A small blue car with four wheels. The kind that might have driven through a tollbooth. Due to the flAT TIRE, it is listing to one side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pump tire", "response": "You pump the flat tire full of air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the car", "response": "A small blue car with four wheels. The kind that might have driven through a tollbooth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the car", "response": "You get into the car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive the car", "response": "But you're already in the car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The car speeds up to 10mph.\n\nRoad To Reality (in the car)\nTo the north, a paved road ends in a long upward ramp overlooking a 50-foot-wide canyon. Passages lead south and east. The road continues west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The car speeds up to 20mph.\n\nCrow's Nest (in the car)\nHere, the giant crow sits on an equally giant nest, looking at you smugly.\n\nPeeking behind it, you see that your stoLEN Spear lies to the rear of the nest.\n\nThe only way out is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The car coasts at 20mph to handle the turn.\n\nRoad To Reality (in the car)\nTo the north, a paved road ends in a long upward ramp overlooking a 50-foot-wide canyon. Passages lead south and east. The road continues west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The car coasts at 20mph to handle the turn.\n\nBird's Perch (in the car)\nThere's an empty perch here. Passages lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The car speeds up to 30mph.\n\nDanger Den (in the car)\nPassages continue to the north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The car speeds up to 40mph.\n\nErsatz Corridor (in the car)\nIn the center of this room hangs a heavy counterbaLANCE. It is tied to a thick red rope vanishing up into a hole in the ceiling.\n\nExits lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The car speeds up to 50mph.\n\nBalcony (in the car)\nYou stand on a balcony. You're standing in a tHEATER, one can assume, given the stage below you and the array of spotlights above.\n\nStairs descend to the stage below. Also, a passage returns to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The car slows down to 20mph to handle the turn.\n\nErsatz Corridor (in the car)\nIn the center of this room hangs a heavy counterbaLANCE. It is tied to a thick red rope vanishing up into a hole in the ceiling.\n\nExits lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The car speeds up to 40mph.\n\nBird's Perch (in the car)\nThere's an empty perch here. Passages lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The car speeds up to 50mph.\n\nRoad To Reality (in the car)\nTo the north, a paved road ends in a long upward ramp overlooking a 50-foot-wide canyon. Passages lead south and east. The road continues west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You pull the throttle and launch the car off of the ramp.\n\nYou soar through the air over the canyon.\n\nCrash!\nCrash Site\nThe wreckage of your crashed car is here.\n\nThe path continues north. The wide canyon is south.\n\nA red button is mounted on the ground here.\n\nFortunately, you were wearing a seatbelt. You stand up, uninjured.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The wreckage of your crashed car is here.\n\nThe path continues north. You can also cross the canyon to the south.\n\nA red button is mounted on the ground here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The troll you scared earlier guards the path north. Blocking the north exit is a vault door. You can also return to the south.\n\nNext to the door is a note printed in tiny text.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the note with the lens", "response": "The lens magnifies the text: \"Note: for security reasons, I have reversed the door's passcode.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "This is an ornate vault door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "It isn't something you can open.\n\n> TALK TO TROLL\n\nThe troll growls menacingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the clothes", "response": "It's too small for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pump clothes", "response": "There's too many air holes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say 'XXXX'", "response": "(to the troll)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock door", "response": "What do you want to unlock the vault door with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The wreckage of your crashed car is here.\n\nThe path continues north. You can also cross the canyon to the south.\n\nA red button is mounted on the ground here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A paved road bridges the canyon to the north. Passages lead south and east. The road continues west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Here, the giant crow sits on an equally giant nest, looking at you smugly.\n\nPeeking behind it, you see that your stoLEN Spear lies to the rear of the nest.\n\nThe only way out is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Crow", "response": "\"Caw! Got'cher shiny pointy spear. It's right behind me, but you can't have it! Without that spear, you can't scare me one bit.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn nest", "response": "This dangerous act would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Spear", "response": "The crow blocks you with a giant feathery wing. \"Caw-haw! Without that spear, you think you can scare me?\"\n\n> CROW, GIVE ME SPEAR\n\n(the crow first taking the spear)\nThe crow has better things to do.\n\n> UNDO\n\n[Previous turn undone.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome clothing\na lens\nan air pump\na torch\na heater\na key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the troll about the bridge", "response": "This provokes no reaction.\n\n> GIVE CLOTHES TO TROLL\n\nThe troll doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine scared", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\n> LIGHT HEATER\n\nYou light the oil in the heater. It flickers to life and begins producing a comfortable warmth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome clothing\na lens\nan air pump\na torch\na heater (providing light)\na key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn troll", "response": "The troll parries your attack with its club. Looks like the torch doesn't have enough reach to get past the troll's defenses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clothes", "response": "It's a full set of clothing, including a hat and shoes. Looks like something a farmer would wear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the note", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The corridor ends here. The only exit is back to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn Crow", "response": "The crow deftly dodges your torch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "There's an empty perch here. Passages lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "In the center of this room hangs a heavy counterbaLANCE. It is tied to a thick red rope vanishing up into a hole in the ceiling.\n\nExits lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn rope", "response": "Your torch burns straight through the rope. It snaps!\n\nThe counterbalance crashes to the floor.\n\nThe rope above the burn point is rapidly pulled up into the hole in the ceiling.\n\nYou hear a loud crash from the south. You turn around just in time to see an elevator fall through the ceiling to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stand on a balcony. You're standing in a tHEATER, one can assume, given the stage below you and the array of spotlights above.\n\nStairs descend to the stage below. The ceiling above you is splintered open. A thick red rope hangs down from it into the pit. Also, a passage returns to the north.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You stand on a wooden stage. In front of the stage, between you and the audience seats, is a cavernous pit. Down in the pit, you can barely hear a piT ORCHestra playing faint strains of music.\n\nStairs lead back up to the balcony. You can go backstage to the east. The ceiling far above you is splintered open. A thick red rope hangs down from it into the pit.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "In front of you, the orc: he arms up. In front of it, a woman waves a stick back and forth to a rhythm only she hears.\n\nYou can climb the rope back up to the stage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the straw", "response": "You found some hidden straw!\nYou take it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "In front of you, the orcheSTRA Warms up. In front of it, a woman waves a stick back and forth to a rhythm only she hears.\n\nYou can climb the rope back up to the stage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the straw in the clothes", "response": "You stuff the straw into the clothing, creating a makeshift scarecrow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scarecrow", "response": "It's your standard makeshift scarecrow: straw stuffed into a set of clothing. If you were a bird, you'd freeze to death on the spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the woman", "response": "She waves a stick back and forth. Nobody seems to be watching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stick", "response": "The conductor waves it about in 4/4 rhythm. The musicians down below don't seem to be watching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the woman", "response": "The woman turns to you, frustrated. \"They won't start playing the piece! They keep practicing and practicing while asking me for winter coats. Could you help?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give HEATER to the woman", "response": "The conductor says, \"Oh! This will be perfect! Now my ensemble can finally stop warming up.\" She takes the heater from you and fixes it in place in the middle of the orchestra. The room begins warming up rapidly.\n\nYou listen as the musicians start playing their symphony. It has some strange lyrics: \"The - passcode - to - the - vault - is - banana.\" (To say a passcode, just type it.)\n\nThe conductor sighs in relief. \"Maybe tomorrow we can figure out why an elevator crashed through the ceiling here.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the musicians", "response": "The musicians are happily playing music, with lyrics: \"The passcode to the vault is banana.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You stand on a wooden stage. In front of the stage, between you and the audience seats, is a cavernous pit. Down in the pit, you can barely hear a piT ORCHestra playing faint strains of music.\n\nStairs lead back up to the balcony. You can go backstage to the east. The ceiling far above you is splintered open. A thick red rope hangs down from it into the pit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ceiling", "response": "It's splintered open. Something must have fallen through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "In the center of this room lies a heavy counterbaLANCE. It used to be tied to a thick red rope, but no longer.\n\nExits lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "There's an empty perch here. Passages lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the scarecrow to Crow", "response": "\"Aaawck!\" The crow stares at the faux-farmer with death in its eyes. It snaps its beak nervously. \"It wasn't me. I'm innocent! I was framed. It was self-defense!\"\n\nThe crow buries its head in its wings. \"Oh, I never should have stolen that corn. Have mercy! Have mercy!\"\n\nThe crow darts away in a storm of feathers. \"Caw! I'll never come back. Don't shoot! Off to Digitopolis with me. No more trouble from me, caw.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Spear", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "There is a recently vacated giant nest here. The only way out is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stab troll", "response": "You shank the troll in the torso. The troll squeals and runs away, never to return.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the ananab", "response": "As you say \"ananab\", the vault door hinges open!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You step through the vault door and tumble down a steep slope into a dark cave, lit only by your torch.\n\nAn arm-sized salamander crawls up to you. \"My name is Isaac Newt. You were sent by King Azaz to restore Reality, were you not? I see you are carrying several pieces of it. To begin the healing of Reality, you must put them together.\"\n\nIsaac gives you a quick look-see. \"So far you have been very observant. But many have failed before you, too focused on\nfinding things. Heed my advice: in this land, every action\nhas an equal and opposite action. If you can find something,\nthen...\"\n\nIsaac trails off cryptically, and scurries away into a crack in the rock.\n\nIt is very dark here. The only exit is north.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "It is very dark here. The only exit is north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na spear\na scarecrow\na lens\nan air pump\na torch\na key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You walk into a small cavern. You see nonsense words carved into a plaque here:\n\n\"Kiss, pear, care, crown, glen. Skey's questor chair. Pump TV I.\"\n\nAs for the final step -- using the pieces of Reality you collected...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You find the kis", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\n> REMOVE T\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Surreal" ]

[ "collaboration", "I7 source available" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Are you sure you want to quit? \n\nYour very first night is over in your new house. It still seems surreal that you are now the proud owner of this place. It doesn't quite feel like home yet since you haven't been able to get your furniture. However, you can't get the rental truck until tomorrow. Maybe today would be a good idea to explore those woods behind your house. It'll be a good way to kill time until you can get properly moved in tomorrow.\n\nType \"about\" for more information.\n\nMaster Bedroom (on the mattress)\nAll that's unpacked in the room is your mattress with a sheet thrown over the top of it. Your dresser is still in storage. Windows look out to the north and west, and the closet lies to the south. The hallway is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 1, \"Going Exploring\", was written by Tom Blawgus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read Almanac", "response": "Rather than start at the beginning of the Almanac, and having no curiosity in any specific entry in particular, you flip to a random page and begin reading at random:\n\nJust to make sure, you skim through the ontogeny section. Yeah, you were right. Not only is the metatarsal tubercule completely different, but larval Overlords are typically the size of small planets. Otherwise they're quite like tadpoles, though.\n\nOut of context, this may or may not make a whole lot of sense, but I suppose that's what you get for not looking up a specific entry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The closet's much too small to fit in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You're not Mr. Fantastic. You'll need to get up to reach the closet.\n\nYour vision goes blurry for a second, and a voice seems to be speaking to you right out of your brain.\n\n\"Dave? Dave? Can you hear me?\" says the voice. \"Hang on, we're trying to get you out of there.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake", "response": "The dreadful truth is, this is not a dream.\n\nThe voice continues. If you concentrate, you can just place the voice as Leslie's. \"Listen. I think we can do this, but we need your help. We need to calibrate on this end with something you've held on that end. Can you describe something you've picked up, or something you're holding? Try telling me about it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the mattress.\n\nAll that's unpacked in the room is your mattress with a sheet thrown over the top of it. Your dresser is still in storage. Windows look out to the north and west, and the closet lies to the south. The hallway is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You describe Almanac", "response": "Ever since your youth, this book has been your dearest companion. Originally a slender mass-market paperback from Knockoff Press, it now bulges under the weight of your painfully cross-referenced annotations and additions. It largely deals with how the Atlanteans staged the moon landings in order to atrophy America's can-do attitude and defy the Cosmic Overlords, but has valuable information on many related topics.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about Almanac", "response": "\"Aha! Got it! Analyzing now...\"\n\n\"Perfect! OK, we've noted Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy as characteristic of this section, which should help us get a bead on your location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You open the closet, revealing a backpack and a swibble.\n\n\"I really need that room,\" Leslie says again. \"We almost have a lock on your avatar.\"\n\n\"OK, now we need to know where you are. Can you tell me about one of the rooms you've visited in this section?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the closet", "response": "\"Aha! Got it! Analyzing now...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the swibble", "response": "It's just a swibble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all from the closet", "response": "backpack: Taken.\nswibble: You can't intefere with a swibble! It would be... well, you just can't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the swibble in Almanac", "response": "You discover nothing of interest in Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy.\n\n\"I really need that room,\" Leslie says again. \"We almost have a lock on your avatar.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the backpack", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the swibble", "response": "(first taking the swibble)\nYou can't intefere with a swibble! It would be... well, you just can't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about Bedroom", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing the Master Bedroom now...\"\n\n\"Great, we have that room now. That should help. Re-calibrating...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the swibble", "response": "It's just a swibble.\n\nLeslie pipes up again. \"OK! I'm going to send you a detangler. You should be able to use it to escape as-is, but if not, I can try sending you some attachments. I've attuned it to your signal in the simulator, so it should stay with you.\n\nA strange beam of green light bathes you, then disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\ndetangler base (with a trigger attached.)\na backpack (open but empty)\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nLong and sleek, with various notches for extra attachments. When it's working, you should be able to just fire it. Attached to the base is a trigger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nTaking a deep breath, you pull the trigger and shoot the detangler. Blue static washes over you and the Master Bedroom, but then dissipates. And you're still in the same room as before.\n\n\"Dave? We caught a power surge in your location. That wasn't... drat, the detangler didn't work, did it? OK, we'll try again. Let me send you the focuser; I think the area of effect was too wide.\" You wait for the green light again.\n\nAfter a few moments, you hear cursing from inside your head. \"Um... Dave, I'm sorry, but the lock I had for your location is busted.\nYou'll need to find your way somewhere else, and try again from there. Sorry about that. I'll work on the focuser; you work on finding your way forward.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Leslie in Almanac", "response": "The Atlantean legends are unclear on whether this figure is meant to represent some sort of demon or monster, or if it is merely a human being who achieved both great power and great viillainy. Her exact name varies according to the source text: sometimes it is written as \"Lisellyi\" or \"Leslea\"; other sources refer to her as \"L'Z'L\", perhaps as a reference to the holy tetragrammaton. Some modern academics have taken to transliterating the name as \"Leslie\" or even \"Lucille\", although this is generally recognized as a sign of less serious scholarship.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "All that's unpacked in the room is your mattress with a sheet thrown over the top of it. Your dresser is still in storage. Windows look out to the north and west, and the closet lies to the south. The hallway is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sheet", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mattress", "response": "At least you were able to haul this here on the top of your car. It would have been quite uncomfortable to sleep on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mattress", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Leslie about Leslie", "response": "\"I'm trying to get you out of there! I think we can do this, just trust me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "North", "response": "You look out the window and see the neighbor's fence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the west window", "response": "You look out the window and gaze upon your front lawn and the street beyond it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Peeling paint greets you as you gaze down the hallway. Once you get moved in and get your car back, a trip to the paint store is on your list of things to do. The threadbare carpet leads you south, or you can step into your bedroom to the west. The bathroom lies to the north, and there's a spare bedroom to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is room is about as empty as your bedroom. There are windows looking north and east, and there's a closet to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "Opening the closet reveals a flashlight. The previous owners must have forgotten it when they moved out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take flashlight", "response": "(putting Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy into the backpack to make room)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "A durable flashlight found in the spare room closet.\n\nThe flashlight is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the east window", "response": "You look out the window and gaze into your back yard and the woods beyond. You can also see the windows of the Sun Room and see a bit of the room itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "All the usual fixtures are here. Unfortunately the water isn't turned on yet, so you can't use any of them. It's on your ever-growing list of things to do after getting your stuff.\n\nYou can see a surveillance camera here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the camera", "response": "It's the standard bathroom cam, same as in every other place you've ever lived.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the bathroom", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing the Bathroom now...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Leslie about yourself", "response": "\"You were testing the simulation code when something went wrong. Do you not even remember who you are any more? That's bad.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Leslie about the simulation", "response": "\"You were working on the simulator, but something went wrong and it started to interface with your brain directly. Your own memories are now influencing the simulator in unpredictable ways, and the simulator is trying to keep up. It's going to get weirder before it gets back to normal.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the Conspiracy in Almanac", "response": "At the core of the web of lies the Atlanteans have woven: the supposed moon landings. It is a shadowy business; you have few answers, but many questions. Where did the billions invested in the space program go? What really lurks inside the fridge in the NASA headquarters break room? What fiendish plan are the Atlanteans concocting against the Cosmic Overlords? The answers can only lie in one place: the moon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the camera", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Peeling paint greets you as you gaze down the hallway. Once you get moved in and get your car back, a trip to the paint store is on your list of things to do. The threadbare carpet leads you south, or you can step into your bedroom to the west. The bathroom lies to the north, and there's a spare bedroom to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Hardwood floors greet you and your steps echo as you walk around the room. There is a window in the west wall looking out into the front yard. The front door is to the west, and the kitchen lies to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A small kitchen, perfect for one. Cupboards line the north wall, and there's a refigerator in the corner next to the oven. Oh, and there's also a kitchen sink. You can walk west to the living room, or east down some steps into the sun room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cupboards", "response": "You open them one by one and find nothing in them. Your dishes are still in storage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You open the refrigerator, revealing a water bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bottle", "response": "(putting the house key into the backpack to make room)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "Just the thing to have along in case you get thirsty.\n\nThe water bottle contains water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the fridge", "response": "You close the refrigerator.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "Now you've seen everything... except water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "A vast open room at the back of the house with windows on all sides. A door looking something like one you'd see on a barn leads outdoors, while the garage is to the southwest. The kitchen is up some steps to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "Obviously this garage was built many years ago because there's no way the modern car would fit in it. As a result, it becomes a convenient place to store your stuff when you get it out of storage. The garage door lies to the east, but it's locked shut and the realtor forgot to give you the key to the padlock. Another chore for you after moving in.\n\nYou can see some cobwebs and some dead flies here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nwater bottle, which contains water\na flashlight\na sheet\ndetangler base (with a trigger attached.)\na backpack (open)\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nYou shoot the detangler again, but nothing happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cobwebs", "response": "Sign of the enemy! Vile! Vile!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the flies", "response": "(putting the detangler base into the backpack to make room)\nTaken. Ick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cobwebs", "response": "You obliterate the unclean thing. Hopefully you can forget that your beautiful new home ever contained such inappropriate filth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the padlock", "response": "\"Dave, there's no time,\" Leslie replies. \" You need to find an item you can hold and a new room or area to tell me about, or I won't be able to pull you out of the simulator. If you can't find anything to hold, it might work to find something that can hold you, instead.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the garage", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing the Garage now...\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Obviously this garage was built many years ago because there's no way the modern car would fit in it. As a result, it becomes a convenient place to store your stuff when you get it out of storage. The garage door lies to the east, but it's locked shut and the realtor forgot to give you the key to the padlock. Another chore for you after moving in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the barn door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A large carpet of green stretches all the way to the back of the property where the woods start. The house is back to the west, and you can enter the woods to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the barn door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "With anticipation, trepidation and excitement, you enter the woods.\n\nLooking back through the trees, you can still make out your house. Looking forward, you see the vast wilderness surrounds you that is just begging to be explored. A path meaders through the trees leading east.\n\nA Great Master stands by the path in watchful posture. You are awestruck. No one mentioned when you bought the house that you would be graced with such a blessing.\n\nThe Great Master acknowldeges you with a wave of its foreclaw, and you hear its voice resonate in your head: GREETINGS, SOFT ONE. ACCESS TO THE WOODS IS RESTRICTED.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at great Master", "response": "Magnificent, benevolent, wise, and at least eight feet tall. To gaze on it is to be honored. Its carapace is brilliant green, its compound eyes are irridescent blue-red. It stands in the Ready Watcher pose, four legs on the ground, its great knifelike foreclaws crossed in front of its thorax.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about great Master", "response": "\"Dave, there's no time,\" Leslie replies. \" You need to find an item you can hold and a new room or area to tell me about, or I won't be able to pull you out of the simulator. If you can't find anything to hold, it might work to find something that can hold you, instead.\"\n\nMore static, and you hear Leslie's voice again. \"You dropped off our old lock, so it looks like you've made it to a new section. Tell us about something you've held and about a room you see, and I'll try to send a focuser.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nScene 2, \"Introducing the Great Masters\", was written by Carl Muckenhoupt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fight master", "response": "You can barely even articulate the thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the access", "response": "THE WOODS HIDE A TERRIBLE THING. ACCESS IS PERMITTED ONLY TO THOSE OF ASSURED LOYALTY.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the loyalty", "response": "A SERVICE IS REQUIRED. RESTORE THE BELOVED TO US.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about BELOVED", "response": "THE BELOVED HAS STRAYED. BRING IT TO US THAT IT MAY REJOICE IN OUR LOVE ONCE MORE.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome dead flies\nwater bottle, which contains water\na flashlight\na sheet\na backpack (open)\ndetangler base (with a trigger attached.)\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You offer myself to Master", "response": "THE SOFT ONES DO NOT TRULY UNDERSTAND LOVE. THIS IS WHY YOU NEED OUR GUIDANCE.\n\n(first taking yourself)\nYou are always self-possessed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the soft ones", "response": "Why waste a Great Master's time with something irrelevant?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Master about the house", "response": "The Great Master is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss master", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the house", "response": "WE CONGRATULATE YOU ON ACQUIRING THE NEARBY RESIDENCE. IT IS IN A GOOD NEIGHBORHOOD, NEAR SCHOOLS.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the guidance", "response": "THE SOFT ONES DO NOT TRULY UNDERSTAND LOVE. THIS IS WHY YOU NEED OUR GUIDANCE.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The Great Master stops you. You hear its voice in your head: ACCESS DENIED.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome dead flies\nwater bottle, which contains water\na flashlight\na sheet\na backpack (open)\ndetangler base (with a trigger attached.)\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about hard", "response": "Why waste a Great Master's time with something irrelevant?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Almanac to Master", "response": "(first taking Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy)\n(putting the sheet into the backpack to make room)\nThe Great Master doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Looking back through the trees, you can still make out your house. Looking forward, you see the vast wilderness surrounds you that is just begging to be explored. A path meaders through the trees leading east.\n\nA Great Master stands by the path in watchful posture.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the house", "response": "Your house key. Without it, you wouldn't feel safe going anywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A large carpet of green stretches all the way to the back of the property where the woods start. The house is back to the west, and you can enter the woods to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(first opening the barn door)\n\nA vast open room at the back of the house with windows on all sides. A door looking something like one you'd see on a barn leads outdoors, while the garage is to the southwest. The kitchen is up some steps to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(first opening the front door)\n(first unlocking the front door)\n(first taking the house key)\n(putting the flashlight into the backpack to make room)\n(with the house key)\n\nA neatly manicured lawn greets you and runs all the way to the sidewalk. Your driveway is to the south and you can step back inside to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The concrete is cracked but is still servicable to park your car. The garage itself lies to the east, but there's no handle on this side of the garage door. Add a trip to the hardware store to your list of things to do.\n\nA lesser mantid stands here, staring fascinated at the reflection of the sunlight reflected on the pavement by the rear view mirror.\n\nYou can also see a car here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mantid", "response": "It skitters away at your approach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mantid", "response": "A beautiful insectoid, related to the Great Masters, but not intelligent, and much smaller. This one is barely the size of a dog.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the car", "response": "Your trusty car that can get you places, except into the woods.\n\nThe lesser mantid stridulates plaintively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the flies to the mantid", "response": "You kneel down and hold out the dead flies on your palm. The mantid approaches cautiously, then delicately picks up the flies in its mandibles one by one and crunches them down. It seems less skittish now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the car", "response": "Your trusty car that can get you places, except into the woods.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the car", "response": "Today's not the day to explore the neighborhood. Today's the day to explore the woods.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A neatly manicured lawn greets you and runs all the way to the sidewalk. Your driveway is to the south and you can step back inside to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A small kitchen, perfect for one. Cupboards line the north wall, and there's a refigerator in the corner next to the oven. Oh, and there's also a kitchen sink. You can walk west to the living room, or east down some steps into the sun room.\n\nYou reposition the lesser mantid to hold its weight better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Are you going to leave your house open when you explore?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Master that the mantid likes us better", "response": "A vast open room at the back of the house with windows on all sides. A door looking something like one you'd see on a barn leads outdoors, while the garage is to the southwest. The kitchen is up some steps to the west.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A small kitchen, perfect for one. Cupboards line the north wall, and there's a refigerator in the corner next to the oven. Oh, and there's also a kitchen sink. You can walk west to the living room, or east down some steps into the sun room.\n\nThe lesser mantid writhes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the front door.\n\nThe lesser mantid burbles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock it", "response": "(with the house key)\nYou lock the front door.\n\nYou turn the lock in the doorknob to lock the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "That's locked at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A vast open room at the back of the house with windows on all sides. A door looking something like one you'd see on a barn leads outdoors, while the garage is to the southwest. The kitchen is up some steps to the west.\n\nThe lesser mantid burbles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the barn door.\n\nThe lesser mantid snuggles its head against your shoulder. Its antennae tickle your chin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Looking back through the trees, you can still make out your house. Looking forward, you see the vast wilderness surrounds you that is just begging to be explored. A path meaders through the trees leading east.\n\nA Great Master stands by the path in watchful posture.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the mantid to Master", "response": "You place it on the ground in front of the Great Master, who places its foreclaws around its neck protectively. You hear the Great Master's voice in your head: WE THANK YOU FOR THE RETURN OF THE BELOVED. YOU ARE LOYAL, SOFT ONE.\n\nThe lesser mantid uses a foreclaw to clean its large, soulful compopund eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the mantid", "response": "\"Aha! Got it! Analyzing now...\"\n\n\"Perfect! OK, we've noted the lesser mantid as characteristic of this section, which should help us get a bead on your location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the woods", "response": "ACCESS GRANTED.\n\n\"OK, can you tell us about one of the places you've visited from this section?\" Leslie asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about Woods", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing the Edge of the Woods now...\"\n\n\"Great, we have that room now. That should help. Re-calibrating...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAnother beam of green light hits you and your load feels a bit heavier. \"There you go!\" Leslie says. \"I've sent you another attachment that should help.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na focuser\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\nwater bottle, which contains water\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\na sheet\ndetangler base (with a trigger attached.)\n\nThe Great Master casually snips off the lesser mantid's head, then picks up and eats its body.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the focuser to the base", "response": "With a click and a pop, you permanently attach the focuser to the detangler base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\nwater bottle, which contains water\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\na sheet\ndetangler base (with a trigger and a focuser attached.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nWith the focuser attached, you pull the trigger once more. Bright blue static pours out of it and crackles around your feet. For a moment, the scene seems to shift... but then it dies out, and you're back to where you were before.\n\n\"Not again!\" Leslie complains. \"Let me check my readouts. Hmm. OK, maybe you just need more power. If you can get to a new section and get me a lock there, I'll send you an extra power source.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Looking back through the trees, you can still make out your house. Looking forward, you see the vast wilderness surrounds you that is just begging to be explored. A path meaders through the trees leading east.\n\nA Great Master stands by the path in watchful posture.\n\nYou can also see a lesser mantid head here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about BELOVED", "response": "IT WILL STRAY NO MORE.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the head", "response": "Well, you're sure it was justified.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the LOVE", "response": "LOVE IS SOMETIMES HARSH. WE DO WHAT WE MUST.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat master", "response": "(first taking the Great Master)\nI don't suppose the Great Master would care for that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Fallen leaves crunch underfoot as you trundle exploritatively down the sun-dappled path. Fresh air, exercise, the beauty of nature: all is good. Until, quite suddenly, you get an uncanny feeling, like someone stepped on your grave.\n\nYou can't put your finger on it at first. Then you notice that the small clearing you've stepped into is perfectly spherical, the trees bending around it and in some cases cut by an invisible field. And you understand: this is a blast site. Unwholesome relic of the war, a zone of anti-life created by the humans' weapons when they tried to... to...\n\nYou choke back tears. How could people have ever been so foolish?\n\nThere's a perfectly spherical gap in the forest here, thirty feet in diameter, where nothing can grow. Tall maple and birch trees bend around this bubble of unlife. Distant blackbirds call.\n\nA path has been hacked through the forest to the east, and you can see something to the northeast.\n\nIn the fused earth at your feet, you see a hint of something yellow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the head", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the head to Master", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "Somewhere, a red-winged blackbird gives a throaty cry in defense of its tree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 3, \"End of the World\", was written by Ricardo Dague.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "The fused earth is too hard to dig in with your hands.\n\nLeslie says, \"Looks like you've gotten to a new section. I'll need another room and object to reestablish a lock. After that, I can send you a power pack.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the blast zone", "response": "\"Dave, there's no time,\" Leslie replies. \" You need to find an item you can hold and a new room or area to tell me about, or I won't be able to pull you out of the simulator. If you can't find anything to hold, it might work to find something that can hold you, instead.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the blast site", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing Blast Site now...\"\n\n\"Great, we have that room now. That should help. Re-calibrating...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about yellow", "response": "\"Dave, there's no time,\" Leslie replies. \" You need to find an item you can hold and a new room or area to tell me about, or I won't be able to pull you out of the simulator. If you can't find anything to hold, it might work to find something that can hold you, instead.\"\n\n\"Now we need an item you've picked up from this section,\" Leslie tells you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get yellow", "response": "It's too firmly embedded in the fused earth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull yellow", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na lesser mantid head\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\nwater bottle, which contains water\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\na sheet\ndetangler base (with a trigger and a focuser attached.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the head", "response": "Well, you're sure it was justified.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look uthe anti-life zone in Almanac", "response": "I only understood you as far as wanting to dig.\n\nYou discover nothing of interest in Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the head", "response": "You discover nothing of interest in Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy.\n\nWell, you're sure it was justified.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "There's a perfectly spherical gap in the forest here, thirty feet in diameter, where nothing can grow. Tall maple and birch trees bend around this bubble of unlife. Distant blackbirds call.\n\nA path has been hacked through the forest to the east, and you can see something to the northeast.\n\nIn the fused earth at your feet, you see a hint of something yellow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Trickling through the forest is a small, clear stream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stream", "response": "You peer into the flowing stream and see something darting among the rocks.\n\nThe stream contains water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "(the water bottle)\nYou quaff water, leaving the water bottle empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink stream", "response": "You scoop some water in your hands and slurp it refreshingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bottle", "response": "(with the stream)\nThe water bottle cannot contain any more than it already holds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search stream", "response": "By being patient, you finally see what's darting around in the water--tadpoles!\n\nThe stream is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tadpoles", "response": "By being patient, you finally see what's darting around in the water--tadpoles!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "There's a perfectly spherical gap in the forest here, thirty feet in diameter, where nothing can grow. Tall maple and birch trees bend around this bubble of unlife. Distant blackbirds call.\n\nA path has been hacked through the forest to the east, and you can see something to the northeast.\n\nIn the fused earth at your feet, you see a hint of something yellow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Empty bottle", "response": "You pour out the bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The forest presses around this narrow throughway leading west to east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the tadpoles in Almanac", "response": "Just to make sure, you skim through the ontogeny section. Yeah, you were right. Not only is the metatarsal tubercule completely different, but larval Overlords are typically the size of small planets. Otherwise they're quite like tadpoles, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "Your very first night is over in your new house. It still seems surreal that you are now the proud owner of this place. It doesn't quite feel like home yet since you haven't been able to get your furniture. However, you can't get the rental truck until tomorrow. Maybe today would be a good idea to explore those woods behind your house. It'll be a good way to kill time until you can get properly moved in tomorrow.\n\nType \"about\" for more information.\n\nMaster Bedroom (on the mattress)\nAll that's unpacked in the room is your mattress with a sheet thrown over the top of it. Your dresser is still in storage. Windows look out to the north and west, and the closet lies to the south. The hallway is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the mattress.\n\nAll that's unpacked in the room is your mattress with a sheet thrown over the top of it. Your dresser is still in storage. Windows look out to the north and west, and the closet lies to the south. The hallway is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "You open the closet, revealing a backpack and a swibble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the backpack", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sheet", "response": "Taken.\n\nYour vision goes blurry for a second, and a voice seems to be speaking to you right out of your brain.\n\n\"Dave? Dave? Can you hear me?\" says the voice. \"Hang on, we're trying to get you out of there.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Peeling paint greets you as you gaze down the hallway. Once you get moved in and get your car back, a trip to the paint store is on your list of things to do. The threadbare carpet leads you south, or you can step into your bedroom to the west. The bathroom lies to the north, and there's a spare bedroom to the east.\n\nThe voice continues. If you concentrate, you can just place the voice as Leslie's. \"Listen. I think we can do this, but we need your help. We need to calibrate on this end with something you've held on that end. Can you describe something you've picked up, or something you're holding? Try telling me about it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about Bedroom", "response": "Which do you mean, the Master Bedroom, or the Spare Bedroom?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Master", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing the Master Bedroom now...\"\n\n\"Great, we have that room now. That should help. Re-calibrating...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na sheet\na backpack (open but empty)\na house key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\n\n\"We still need an item you've picked up,\" Leslie tells you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about Almanac", "response": "\"Aha! Got it! Analyzing now...\"\n\n\"Perfect! OK, we've noted Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy as characteristic of this section, which should help us get a bead on your location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open closet", "response": "Opening the closet reveals a flashlight. The previous owners must have forgotten it when they moved out.\n\nLeslie pipes up again. \"OK! I'm going to send you a detangler. You should be able to use it to escape as-is, but if not, I can try sending you some attachments. I've attuned it to your signal in the simulator, so it should stay with you.\n\nA strange beam of green light bathes you, then disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take flashlight", "response": "(putting Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy into the backpack to make room)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nTaking a deep breath, you pull the trigger and shoot the detangler. Blue static washes over you and the Spare Bedroom, but then dissipates. And you're still in the same room as before.\n\n\"Dave? We caught a power surge in your location. That wasn't... drat, the detangler didn't work, did it? OK, we'll try again. Let me send you the focuser; I think the area of effect was too wide.\" You wait for the green light again.\n\nAfter a few moments, you hear cursing from inside your head. \"Um... Dave, I'm sorry, but the lock I had for your location is busted.\nYou'll need to find your way somewhere else, and try again from there. Sorry about that. I'll work on the focuser; you work on finding your way forward.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(first opening the front door)\n(first unlocking the front door)\n(with the house key)\n\nA neatly manicured lawn greets you and runs all the way to the sidewalk. Your driveway is to the south and you can step back inside to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "cobwebs: You obliterate the unclean thing. Hopefully you can forget that your beautiful new home ever contained such inappropriate filth. dead flies: (putting the sheet into the backpack to make room)\nTaken. Ick.\nhouse key: (putting the detangler base into the backpack to make room) Taken.\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy: (putting the flashlight into the backpack to make room)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mantid", "response": "It nestles into your arms and leans against your shoulder, its chitinous spines gently pricking your skin.\n\nThe lesser mantid writhes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A neatly manicured lawn greets you and runs all the way to the sidewalk. Your driveway is to the south and you can step back inside to the east.\n\nYou reposition the lesser mantid to hold its weight better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "(with the house key)\nYou lock the front door.\n\nYou turn the lock in the doorknob to lock the front door.\n\nThe lesser mantid snuggles its head against your shoulder. Its antennae tickle your chin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "A small kitchen, perfect for one. Cupboards line the north wall, and there's a refigerator in the corner next to the oven. Oh, and there's also a kitchen sink. You can walk west to the living room, or east down some steps into the sun room.\n\nThe lesser mantid snuggles its head against your shoulder. Its antennae tickle your chin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Are you going to leave your house open when you explore?\n\nThe lesser mantid gently squeezes your arm in its powerful mandibles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the barn door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "With anticipation, trepidation and excitement, you enter the woods.\n\nLooking back through the trees, you can still make out your house. Looking forward, you see the vast wilderness surrounds you that is just begging to be explored. A path meaders through the trees leading east.\n\nA Great Master stands by the path in watchful posture. You are awestruck. No one mentioned when you bought the house that you would be graced with such a blessing.\n\nThe Great Master acknowldeges you with a wave of its foreclaw, and you hear its voice resonate in your head: GREETINGS, SOFT ONE. ACCESS TO THE WOODS IS RESTRICTED.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the access", "response": "THE WOODS HIDE A TERRIBLE THING. ACCESS IS PERMITTED ONLY TO THOSE OF ASSURED LOYALTY.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Master about the loyalty", "response": "A SERVICE IS REQUIRED. RESTORE THE BELOVED TO US.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give mantid to Master", "response": "You place it on the ground in front of the Great Master, who places its foreclaws around its neck protectively. You hear the Great Master's voice in your head: WE THANK YOU FOR THE RETURN OF THE BELOVED. YOU ARE LOYAL, SOFT ONE.\n\nThe lesser mantid stridulates plaintively.\n\nMore static, and you hear Leslie's voice again. \"You dropped off our old lock, so it looks like you've made it to a new section. Tell us about something you've held and about a room you see, and I'll try to send a focuser.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the mantid", "response": "\"Aha! Got it! Analyzing now...\"\n\n\"Perfect! OK, we've noted the lesser mantid as characteristic of this section, which should help us get a bead on your location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about Woods", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing the Edge of the Woods now...\"\n\n\"Great, we have that room now. That should help. Re-calibrating...\"\n\nThe lesser mantid cocks its head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na focuser\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle, which contains water\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\ndetangler base (with a trigger attached.)\na sheet\n\nThe lesser mantid uses a foreclaw to clean its large, soulful compopund eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the focuser to the base", "response": "With a click and a pop, you permanently attach the focuser to the detangler base.\n\nThe Great Master casually snips off the lesser mantid's head, then picks up and eats its body.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the head", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nWith the focuser attached, you pull the trigger once more. Bright blue static pours out of it and crackles around your feet. For a moment, the scene seems to shift... but then it dies out, and you're back to where you were before.\n\n\"Not again!\" Leslie complains. \"Let me check my readouts. Hmm. OK, maybe you just need more power. If you can get to a new section and get me a lock there, I'll send you an extra power source.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Fallen leaves crunch underfoot as you trundle exploritatively down the sun-dappled path. Fresh air, exercise, the beauty of nature: all is good. Until, quite suddenly, you get an uncanny feeling, like someone stepped on your grave.\n\nYou can't put your finger on it at first. Then you notice that the small clearing you've stepped into is perfectly spherical, the trees bending around it and in some cases cut by an invisible field. And you understand: this is a blast site. Unwholesome relic of the war, a zone of anti-life created by the humans' weapons when they tried to... to...\n\nYou choke back tears. How could people have ever been so foolish?\n\nThere's a perfectly spherical gap in the forest here, thirty feet in diameter, where nothing can grow. Tall maple and birch trees bend around this bubble of unlife. Distant blackbirds call.\n\nA path has been hacked through the forest to the east, and you can see something to the northeast.\n\nIn the fused earth at your feet, you see a hint of something yellow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trees", "response": "On the very edge of the blast radius, you can see older trees that were partly sheared away, and healed over. The newer growth simply bends around the dead zone, as if growing around a wall. Branches hang down to within several inches of the upper boundary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb trees", "response": "I don't think much is to be achieved by that.\n\nLeslie says, \"Looks like you've gotten to a new section. I'll need another room and object to reestablish a lock. After that, I can send you a power pack.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search stream", "response": "The stream is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tadpoles", "response": "Try as you might, the tadpoles slip through your fingers and under the rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tadpoles in the water", "response": "(the water bottle)\nThe water bottle cannot contain any more than it already holds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink bottle", "response": "You quaff water, leaving the water bottle empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tadpoles in the bottle", "response": "You fill the water bottle up with water from the stream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "The water bottle is full of water, and there's a tadpole swimming around in it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tadpole", "response": "(the tadpole)\nIt swims around in the bottle.\n\nFor a moment, you suspect it might be a larval Overlord, but the metatarsal tubercule is all wrong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na lesser mantid head\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle, which contains water, and a tadpole\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\ndetangler base (with a trigger and a focuser attached.)\na sheet", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about tadpole", "response": "(tadpoles)\n\"Aha! Got it! Analyzing now...\"\n\n\"Perfect! OK, we've noted tadpoles as characteristic of this section, which should help us get a bead on your location.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Trickling through the forest is a small, clear stream.\n\n\"OK, can you tell us about one of the places you've visited from this section?\" Leslie asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about by a stream", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing Blast Site now...\"\n\n\"Great, we have that room now. That should help. Re-calibrating...\"\n\n\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing By a Stream now...\"\n\nAnother beam of green light hits you and your load feels a bit heavier. \"There you go!\" Leslie says. \"I've sent you another attachment that should help.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na power pack\na lesser mantid head\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle, which contains water, and a tadpole\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\ndetangler base (with a trigger and a focuser attached.)\na sheet", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the power pack to the base", "response": "With a click and a pop, you permanently attach the power pack to the detangler base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire base", "response": "You pull the trigger and are immediately knocked down by the force of the static charge erupting from the detangler. It flies from your hand, hits the floor, and the power pack gets knocked off. With a sigh, you retrieve both parts and put them back together.\n\n\"Wow, sorry about that,\" says Leslie, \"I guess you'll need a stabilizer, too. I hope there are more sections to this place.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na lesser mantid head\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle, which contains water, and a tadpole\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\ndetangler base (with a trigger, a focuser and a power pack\nattached.)\na sheet", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The forest presses around this narrow throughway leading west to east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The trees have been cut back to make room for this tall device. Looking up at it, you see that it looks like...a phallus? Oh wait, it's a missile. Kind of the same thing, but instead of a little death there's great big death.\n\nA cheerful-looking man in a black two-piece suit and black horn-rimmed glasses stands nearby studying the huge device.\n\nYou can also see some rope and a shovel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shovel", "response": "rope: The industrial-purpose rope far too heavy for you to lift. shovel: The man stops you, saying, \"Here now, does that belong to you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "This guy looks like an insurance salesman from the 50s!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the missile", "response": "It's sixty feet tall and gleaming white! An American flag and skull and bones are painted on one side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about himself", "response": "He says, \"The name is McWiggy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask McWiggy about the missile", "response": "He says, \"It's a fine, fine missile, isn't it? If you saw the blast site to the west, well, that was this fella's little brother's work! Did a beautiful job!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the head to the man", "response": "He says, \"You didn't find anything alive there, did you?\" His eyes twinkle behind the thick lenses. \"If you did there'd be something seriously wrong! When one of our missiles land on something, it's completely gone! In fact, if you did find anything alive there, I don't know what I'd do!\"\n\n\"No thank you,\" he says, patting his missile. \"This here is all I need to be happy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the tadpole to McWiggy", "response": "(first taking the tadpole)\nThe mouth of the bottle is too narrow to stick your fingers in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the man about the yellow", "response": "He looks at it a bit nervously. \"Ew, life,\" he says. \"At least you didn't find that in the blast site! That would be tragic.\" He shudders.\n\nThis provokes no reaction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shovel", "response": "He says, \"Tut tut! Can't have any more life than necessary, can we? That's why I'm here.\"\n\nThe man stops you, saying, \"Here now, does that belong to you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "He grins. \"Carry on, then!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shovel", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask McWiggy for the shovel", "response": "The cheerful man has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You dig for a few minutes, turning up an old helmet!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the helmet", "response": "The standard army helmet is dirty and cracked. A strange green film is on the inside of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "The trees have been cut back to make room for this tall device. Looking up at it, you see that it looks like...a phallus? Oh wait, it's a missile. Kind of the same thing, but instead of a little death there's great big death.\n\nA cheerful-looking man in a black two-piece suit and black horn-rimmed glasses stands nearby studying the huge device.\n\nYou can also see some rope here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the helmet to McWiggy", "response": "He stares at the item, his cheer quickly turning into horror. He says, \"What is this?! If you found this helmet in the blast site, and the tadpole was in the helmet, then that means...something was left alive! The missile was a failure? I don't believe it! I refuse to believe it!\"\n\nThe man starts running in circles! He's lost his mind!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the missile", "response": "You can't, because suddenly the man runs at you, making you jump backwards! You land on the coil of rope!\n\n\"So sorry,\" he says, and pulls out a something that looks like a large cellphone. \"I know what to do now. If this missile is fired and destroys its target, then we'll know that the last failure was just a fluke, right?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rope", "response": "The industrial-purpose rope far too heavy for you to lift.\n\nAfter pressing a few buttons, the man looks up at the missile. \"System check is okay!\" he says, then turns to you, \"I suggest you leave. The blast from the rocket engine will kill everyone in this area!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit man", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nThe man says, \"Level B checks clear! Begin firing sequence!\" Then he notices you again, \"I thought I told you to go! This is a holy launch and you have no right to be here!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the rope at the man", "response": "(first taking the rope)\nThe industrial-purpose rope far too heavy for you to lift.\n\nThe missile starts making a humming sound, and steam begins blowing out of the base. \"It's about to fire!\" he yells at you. \"I guess there's no helping it, if you really need to stay. Bask in the glory with me!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bask", "response": "What do you want to ask the upset man for?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nWith some trepidation, you fire the detangler again, but nothing happens.\n\nSuddenly the missile roars and flame and smoke shoot out of the base. The heat is becoming unbearable! The man chortles madly. \"Success! Success! Off you go to wreak havoc my boy!\"\n\nAs it lifts off you and the man and everything around are consumed in flame!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The trees have been cut back to make room for this tall device. Looking up at it, you see that it looks like...a phallus? Oh wait, it's a missile. Kind of the same thing, but instead of a little death there's great big death.\n\nAn upset-looking man stands here pale and terrified, madly hitting buttons on something like a cellphone.\n\nYou can also see some rope here.\n\nAfter pressing a few buttons, the man looks up at the missile. \"System check is okay!\" he says, then turns to you, \"I suggest you leave. The blast from the rocket engine will kill everyone in this area!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na shovel\na lesser mantid head\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle (empty)\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\ndetangler base (with a trigger, a focuser and a power pack\nattached.)\na sheet\n\nAfter pressing a few buttons, the man looks up at the missile. \"System check is okay!\" he says, then turns to you, \"I suggest you leave. The blast from the rocket engine will kill everyone in this area!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the rope to the detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nThat doesn't seem to fit.\n\nAfter pressing a few buttons, the man looks up at the missile. \"System check is okay!\" he says, then turns to you, \"I suggest you leave. The blast from the rocket engine will kill everyone in this area!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the rope to man", "response": "A valiant attempt.\n\nAfter pressing a few buttons, the man looks up at the missile. \"System check is okay!\" he says, then turns to you, \"I suggest you leave. The blast from the rocket engine will kill everyone in this area!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "You're tangled in the rope! You can't walk anywhere!\n\nThe man says, \"Level B checks clear! Begin firing sequence!\" Then he notices you again, \"I thought I told you to go! This is a holy launch and you have no right to be here!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the rope", "response": "(first taking the rope)\nThe industrial-purpose rope far too heavy for you to lift.\n\nThe missile starts making a humming sound, and steam begins blowing out of the base. \"It's about to fire!\" he yells at you. \"I guess there's no helping it, if you really need to stay. Bask in the glory with me!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nWith some trepidation, you fire the detangler again, but nothing happens.\n\nSuddenly the missile roars and flame and smoke shoot out of the base. The heat is becoming unbearable! The man chortles madly. \"Success! Success! Off you go to wreak havoc my boy!\"\n\nAs it lifts off you and the man and everything around are consumed in flame!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the film", "response": "You can't make out what it is.\n\nThe missile starts making a humming sound, and steam begins blowing out of the base. \"It's about to fire!\" he yells at you. \"I guess there's no helping it, if you really need to stay. Bask in the glory with me!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear helmet", "response": "(first taking the helmet)\nThat seems to belong to the upset man.\n\nThe missile starts making a humming sound, and steam begins blowing out of the base. \"It's about to fire!\" he yells at you. \"I guess there's no helping it, if you really need to stay. Bask in the glory with me!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the film", "response": "You feel nothing unexpected.\n\nSuddenly the missile roars and flame and smoke shoot out of the base. The heat is becoming unbearable! The man chortles madly. \"Success! Success! Off you go to wreak havoc my boy!\"\n\nAs it lifts off you and the man and everything around are consumed in flame!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na shovel\na lesser mantid head\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle (empty)\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\ndetangler base (with a trigger, a focuser and a power pack\nattached.)\na sheet\n\nThe missile starts making a humming sound, and steam begins blowing out of the base. \"It's about to fire!\" he yells at you. \"I guess there's no helping it, if you really need to stay. Bask in the glory with me!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the man", "response": "Violence isn't the answer to this one.\n\nSuddenly the missile roars and flame and smoke shoot out of the base. The heat is becoming unbearable! The man chortles madly. \"Success! Success! Off you go to wreak havoc my boy!\"\n\nAs it lifts off you and the man and everything around are consumed in flame!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "This guy looks like an insurance salesman from the 50s!\n\nSuddenly the missile roars and flame and smoke shoot out of the base. The heat is becoming unbearable! The man chortles madly. \"Success! Success! Off you go to wreak havoc my boy!\"\n\nAs it lifts off you and the man and everything around are consumed in flame!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Leslie about the missile", "response": "Please give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rope", "response": "It's a coil of very large-diameter rope, maybe three inches. On one end is a hook.\n\nAfter pressing a few buttons, the man looks up at the missile. \"System check is okay!\" he says, then turns to you, \"I suggest you leave. The blast from the rocket engine will kill everyone in this area!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the hook to missile", "response": "You throw it at the missile! It sticks on! The man yells at you, \"You better not have scratched that!\"\n\nThe man says, \"Level B checks clear! Begin firing sequence!\" Then he notices you again, \"I thought I told you to go! This is a holy launch and you have no right to be here!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the rope", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.\n\nThe missile starts making a humming sound, and steam begins blowing out of the base. \"It's about to fire!\" he yells at you. \"I guess there's no helping it, if you really need to stay. Bask in the glory with me!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the rope", "response": "I don't think much is to be achieved by that.\n\nSuddenly the missile roars and flame and smoke shoot out of the base. The heat is becoming unbearable! The man chortles madly. \"Success! Success! Off you go to wreak havoc my boy!\"\n\nIt lifts off, with the hook, the rope, and yourself being pulled along! The man yells, \"What do you think you're doing?! You altered the trajectory! It's going straight up!\"\n\nAs he falls away below, the man is waving his arms, \"Hold your breath! Hold your breath!\"\n\nThe missile is roaring towards space, with you in tow! Air and clouds whip by you and the earth below is getting smaller and smaller.\n\nYou hang onto the rope for dear life!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hold the breath", "response": "You inhale mightily and begin holding your breath.\n\nYou would scream in terror, but you're trying to hold your breath!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the earth", "response": "Everything down there is getting smaller and smaller...\n\nAs the rocket shoots straight up, the air seems to be getting thinner!\n\nYou courageously continue holding your breath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clouds", "response": "They whip buy too fast to see!\n\nHang on! The missile seems to be nearing the end of earth's atmosphere!\n\nYou courageously continue holding your breath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 3, \"End of the World\", was written by Ricardo Dague.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe missile will enter outer space in just a moment!\n\nYou courageously continue holding your breath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou fly out into outer space!\n\nThe missile is shooting toward the moon with you right behind! There's deathly silence here in outer space.\n\nYou courageously continue holding your breath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the moon", "response": "It is great big and rock-colored!\n\nTerrifyingly, you fly along!\n\nYou courageously continue holding your breath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stars", "response": "They twinkle silently.\n\nOh no, you're about to hit the moon!\n\nYou courageously continue holding your breath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine moon", "response": "It is great big and rock-colored!\n\nWith a huge crash, the rocket hits the moon! How you have survived, you don't know.\n\nThough stunned momentarily, you slowly open your eyes and stand up...\n\nWow you've landed on the moon! Gray, rocky, dusty, airless landscape stretches all around.\n\nA double line of suspicious footprints leads to the crater's center.\n\nHolding your breath is becoming difficult!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You make an attempt on the crater walls, but they're just too steep. There does seem to be an easier climb to the north, however.\n\nYou can't hold your breath much longer!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You stand on the lip between two overlapping lunar craters; the one into which you crash-landed is dwarfed by the immense, ancient crater before you. Far below you on the crater floor, you can make out patches of green; beyond that, a sprawling silvery mass, many kilometres to the north, that can only be the secret Atlantean lunar base. First, however, you have to find some way of getting down this cliff.\n\nYou can't hold your breath much longer!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 4, \"The Great Lunar Conspiracy\", was written by Sam Kabo Ashwell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You breathe", "response": "You remember that the moon's supposed lack of atmosphere is, in fact, yet another scientific hoax. You hadn't realised how deeply the education system had planted lies in your psyche.\n\nYou breathe out. Hahhhhh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the footprints", "response": "You look to the south, toward the crater in which you crash-landed. In addition to your own tracks, a set of footprints reach a patch of smooth ground at the crater's centre, then double back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the moon in Almanac", "response": "Why does the moon coincidentally look exactly the same size as the sun? Why did all ancient civilisations venerate a Moon deity? Why do the Freemasons have no lodges in Antarctica? If you're not convinced by now, there's clearly no hope for you.\n\nLeslie contacts you once more. \"Good job! Another section. Get me another room and an object to analyze, and I can send you a stabilizer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Wow you've landed on the moon! Gray, rocky, dusty, airless landscape stretches all around.\n\nA double line of suspicious footprints leads to the crater's center.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You thrust the shovel into the dust and excavate mightily.\nIt's not long before you've uncovered a large wooden crate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine crate", "response": "Ha! You always knew that Australian wines were really lunar in origin, and here is undeniable evidence!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open crate", "response": "You open the crate of wine, revealing some wine bottles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wine", "response": "(the crate of wine)\nHa! You always knew that Australian wines were really lunar in origin, and here is undeniable evidence!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about crate", "response": "\"Aha! Got it! Analyzing now...\"\n\n\"Perfect! OK, we've noted the crate of wine as characteristic of this section, which should help us get a bead on your location.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the crate", "response": "Even in lunar gravity, the crate is too heavy for a mere Earth-human to lift.\n\n\"OK, can you tell us about one of the places you've visited from this section?\" Leslie asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the crater", "response": "\"Dave, you already visited that room in the last section. I need a new room for this section if I'm going to be able to lock on to your location properly.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wine bottle", "response": "(the delicious wine)\nA bottle of Wachawoomagoo Slope, a perfectly respectable if little-known pinot noir from the Ibn Battuta vinyards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the overlook", "response": "\"Ah, perfect! Analyzing Scenic Overlook now...\"\n\n\"Great, we have that room now. That should help. Re-calibrating...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the wine bottle", "response": "(the delicious wine)\n\"Aha! Got it! Analyzing now...\"\n\nAnother beam of green light hits you and your load feels a bit heavier. \"There you go!\" Leslie says. \"I've sent you another attachment that should help.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stabilizer\na delicious wine\na shovel\na lesser mantid head\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle (empty)\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\ndetangler base (with a trigger, a focuser and a power pack\nattached.)\na sheet", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Leslie about the crater", "response": "\"Thanks, but you told me about that room already.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the stabilizer to the detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nWith a click and a pop, you permanently attach the stabilizer to the detangler base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire detangler", "response": "(the detangler base)\nHolding your breath and closing your eyes, you fire the detangler. Click. You open your eyes. You're still where you were before. You pull the trigger again. Click. Nothing. \"Leslie?\" you ask, \"did something go wrong? The detangler won't fire.\"\n\n\"What? Oh, no! The power pack must be drained. Grar; I'll send you a recharger. I've used up the lock on this section, though; you'll have to go somewhere else and do it all again.\" With a sigh, you pack the detangler away again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You stand on the lip between two overlapping lunar craters; the one into which you crash-landed is dwarfed by the immense, ancient crater before you. Far below you on the crater floor, you can make out patches of green; beyond that, a sprawling silvery mass, many kilometres to the north, that can only be the secret Atlantean lunar base. First, however, you have to find some way of getting down this cliff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lunar base", "response": "A sprawling silvery mass, yes. And filled, no doubt, with treachery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "The cliffs look too steep to climb easily. Even in lunar gravity, the fall could be fatal. Well... probably. You don't really feel brave enough to find out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the green", "response": "Tiny patches of green dot the otherwise harsh landscape far below. If only you could find some way to explore that verdant Eden...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You peer over the side. It doesn't really look that dangerous. Still, it might be better if you were a little more lubricated first, or had some protection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The crater walls are too steep in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Wow you've landed on the moon! Gray, rocky, dusty, airless landscape stretches all around.\n\nA double line of suspicious footprints leads to the crater's center.\n\nYou can also see a crate of wine (in which are some wine bottles) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You make an attempt on the crater walls, but they're just too steep. There does seem to be an easier climb to the north, however.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the wine", "response": "(the wine bottles)\nGlancing around to make sure you are unobserved, you snaffle a bottle of delicious wine.\n\nNormally you wouldn't drink this much, what with the lunar oxygen saturation and everything...\n\nThis time your throw is distinctly wobbly, and the bottle barely makes it over the horizon. Your sense of self-preservation feels somewhat dulled, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "With a silent invocation to the Cosmic Overlords, you close your eyes and fling yourself off the cliff.\n\nThanks to lunar gravity and the relaxing effects of pinot noir, you avoid being splattered like a ripe tomato. And would a true hero be slowed down by a fractured arm? Hardly!\n\nAh, the sun-kissed slopes of Jules Verne Crater, where the grape grows and the wallabies frolic. Presumably. You've yet to see any wallabies, but there are certainly grapevines aplenty.\n\nYou can see a big craggy moon rock here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the rock", "response": "You get onto the big craggy moon rock.\n\n\"OK, you've moved on. You look for a room and object, and I'll get you a recharger.\" Leslie sounds a bit haggard, but hopeful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rock", "response": "Uuuugh! Nope, you can't lift it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the grapes", "response": "That's hardly portable.\n\nAround the edge of a nearby trellis wanders a heretofore unseen wombat.\n\nWait. Wombat?! Wombats don't exist. They're like... wallabies. And kangaroos. And walaroos. And Tasmanian devils. And dingoes who eat babies. They're all made up, mythical creatures from the fictional continent of Australia...\n\nYou rub your eyes in disbelief, but when you look again, the wombat is still there. Upon seeing you, he stops, cocks his head, then narrows his eyes and wrinkles his hairy snout. He appears to be... snarling. It's all a bit of a farce, really - something so little and adorable as a wombat trying to look threatening.\n\nWhat was it you heard about Wombats, anyway? They're herbivores... right?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the wombat in Almanac", "response": "Deceptively adorable, these mythical creatures from the fictional continent of Australia are about a meter long, with a very short tail. A favorite prey of the Tasmanian devil (also mythical), wombats are generally thought to be shy herbivores. Legend holds, however, that they possess sharp teeth and claws, can run at 40 km/hr, and have been known to kill the (equally mythical) dingo. They have even been known to exist in vinyards. That is, if they're actually real, which they're not. But if they were real, it would also be interesting to note that their scat is cubical.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the wombat in Almanac", "response": "Deceptively adorable, these mythical creatures from the fictional continent of Australia are about a meter long, with a very short tail. A favorite prey of the Tasmanian devil (also mythical), wombats are generally thought to be shy herbivores. Legend holds, however, that they possess sharp teeth and claws, can run at 40 km/hr, and have been known to kill the (equally mythical) dingo. They have even been known to exist in vinyards. That is, if they're actually real, which they're not. But if they were real, it would also be interesting to note that their scat is cubical.\n\nBefore you can make a move, the deceptively adorable wombat leaps forward and tries to eviscerate you with his mighty digging claws! You're able to tear away from his vicious teeth just in time...\n\nYou might want to keep track of how you're doing by diagnosing yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the australia in Almanac", "response": "A weighty appendix, which constitutes about three-quarters of the book's actual weight, details the histories of such fictional continents as Atlantis, Lemuria, Mu and Australia. Despite their technical non-existence, cultural belief in them sustains their para-existence in the collective subconscious, better known as the moon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 5, \"Night of the Wombat\", was written by Jacqueline A. Lott.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Wombat", "response": "You jump to the side just as the wombat comes at you, and turn to jab him in the side as he goes by!\n\nThat was a pretty good hit, but it'll take more than that to put the little blighter in line.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Wombat", "response": "You jump to the side just as the wombat comes at you, and turn to jab him in the side as he goes by!\n\nThe wombat seems to have lost some of the spring in its step.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Wombat", "response": "You take a short running kick at the wombat, and it connects! The wombat goes flying!\n\nThe wombat is doesn't look quite so agile anymore. I think you could probably finish the little bugger off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Wombat", "response": "You put everything you have in a solid roundhouse kick, and the wombat shuffles away, yelping!\n\nThat final blow proved to be too much for the wombat - it lies down, rolls over onto its back, its little furry feet wiggle for a few seconds, and then the marsupial goes limp.\n\nLooking down upon its adorable frame, you feel a twinge of remorse.\n\"It was trying to kill me,\" you think to yourself. \"I had no choice but to strike...\" You feel a sudden, odd desire to pet the poor misguided creature. As you reach out, however, the body starts to shimmer, then fade. Soon, it is gone altogether.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You diagnose yourself", "response": "You hear a whisper from behind you. It says, \"You have proven yourself worthy.\"\n\nYou turn around to see a shimmering face suspended in the air at eye level. It is the most beautiful face you have ever seen; being in its presence fills you with a mixture of both fear and awe. \"Are you... one of the Cosmic Overlords?\" you stammer.\n\nThe face smiles at you benevolently. \"Yes. The marsupial was... a test. It is difficult to bring oneself to strike such a fluffy, adorable creature. Some are so entranced by its fluffiness that they can never bring themselves to attack it - even if it means their own death. Through your skill and bravery in Wombat Combat, you have proven yourself worthy of our cause. You will fight the Atlanteans, who in their perfidiousness will use many tricks in an attempt to stay your hand. Do not fall victim to their beguiling ways.\n\n\"But... I'm hurt. How can I be of any use?\" you whine.\n\nThe Cosmic Overlord rolls its eyes, sighs heavily, and says to you, \"Okay, we're not supposed to help you out this much, but just this once we will...\" There is a tingling sensation in your arm... you feel... fantastic. And your arm seems to have healed.\n\n\"Gee, thanks, Overlord. Say, not to sound ungrateful or anything - because I'm certainly very grateful indeed - but... is there anyway you could help me get to the Atlantean Base?\"\n\nThe Overlord narrows its eyes at you. \"Okay, fine, but really, this is the last time we're helping you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Overlord", "response": "\"Like, really.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "There is a sudden, blinding flash of light, followed by... you're not sure what. When you regain consciousness, you find yourself in an entirely different place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "A sprawling silvery mass, yes. And filled, no doubt, with treachery. You must find a way inside!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You find yourself standing outside the Atlantean Base. The silvery walls of the base rise tall into the starry sky, and seem to stretch on endlessly in either direction. Behind you, to the south, lies a vast, unwelcoming expanse of moonscape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sky", "response": "The sky appears as a dark, enveloping blanket, studded with diamond-like stars which twinkle at you. The two most prominent objects in the heavens are the Earth and the Sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Earth", "response": "Gazing up at the blue-and-white marble that mankind calls home, your heart swells with an inexpressible and profound feeling... of resentment that the Atlanteans imprisoned humanity on such a dingy little orb. No wonder the females evolved smaller breasts.\n\nYou note, with a touch of bitterness, the patch of ocean where so-called \"geographers\" claim Australia is located. How dare Google Earth lie to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Earth", "response": "Gazing up at the blue-and-white marble that mankind calls home, your heart swells with an inexpressible and profound feeling... of resentment that the Atlanteans imprisoned humanity on such a dingy little orb. No wonder the females evolved smaller breasts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Sun", "response": "The light emanating from the sun takes only minutes to travel this far. It's a shame there's not more atmosphere to trap some of that heat and keep you warm. Better watch what you wish for, though - the people of Earth asked for an atmosphere that could retain heat and we all know what happened there, don't we now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The moonscape draws on endlessly in that direction, desolate and barren. Your destiny lies in front of you, inside the Atlantean Base.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the moonscape", "response": "Gazing out across the moonscape, you realize that there are no words to properly describe it. Vast... unwelcoming... those are just the start. If you had to put it into one word, it would be this: lonely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 6, \"Entering the Unknown\", was written by Mark J. Musante.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Your singing is abominable.\n\nYou smell nothing unexpected.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "There are no entrances visible east or west. Trudging around the entire base on the off-chance that a convenient door might pop up borders on madness. You'll have to try finding another way in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sky", "response": "The sky appears as a dark, enveloping blanket, studded with diamond-like stars which twinkle at you. The two most prominent objects in the heavens are the Earth and the Sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Earth", "response": "Gazing up at the blue-and-white marble that mankind calls home, your heart swells with an inexpressible and profound feeling... of resentment that the Atlanteans imprisoned humanity on such a dingy little orb. No wonder the females evolved smaller breasts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the wall", "response": "You are carrying:\na shovel\na lesser mantid head\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle (empty)\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\na sheet\n\nViolence isn't the answer to this one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na shovel\na lesser mantid head\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy\na house key\nwater bottle (empty)\na backpack (open)\na flashlight\na sheet", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Atlantean in Almanac", "response": "The book contains a pretty comprehensive summary of Atlantean perfidy, from imperilling the very fabric of the collective subconscious by their treachery against the Cosmic Overlords, to trimming their pubic hairs in your soap dish.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You find yourself standing outside the Atlantean Base. The silvery walls of the base rise tall into the starry sky, and seem to stretch on endlessly in either direction. Behind you, to the south, lies a vast, unwelcoming expanse of moonscape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "What a good idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Leslie about Atlantean Base", "response": "There are no entrances visible east or west. Trudging around the entire base on the off-chance that a convenient door might pop up borders on madness. You'll have to try finding another way in.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the atlantis in Almanac", "response": "A weighty appendix, which constitutes about three-quarters of the book's actual weight, details the histories of such fictional continents as Atlantis, Lemuria, Mu and Australia. Despite their technical non-existence, cultural belief in them sustains their para-existence in the collective subconscious, better known as the moon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the moon in Almanac", "response": "Why does the moon coincidentally look exactly the same size as the sun? Why did all ancient civilisations venerate a Moon deity? Why do the Freemasons have no lodges in Antarctica? If you're not convinced by now, there's clearly no hope for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give up", "response": "(to yourself)\nYou must name something more substantial.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the sheet", "response": "(first taking the sheet)\n(putting the empty water bottle into the backpack to make room)\nYou're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wall", "response": "They are too massive, too endless, too... silvery to take.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You find yourself standing outside the Atlantean Base. The silvery walls of the base rise tall into the starry sky, and seem to stretch on endlessly in either direction. Behind you, to the south, lies a vast, unwelcoming expanse of moonscape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 6, \"Entering the Unknown\", was written by Mark J. Musante.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "empty water bottle: (putting the house key into the backpack to make room)\nTaken.\nflashlight: (putting Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy into the backpack to make room)\nTaken.\nsheet: (putting the lesser mantid head into the backpack to make room) Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the flashlight", "response": "You switch the flashlight on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off flashlight", "response": "You switch the flashlight off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Empty wall", "response": "You will have to do that manually.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.\n\nYou are horrendously drunk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the silver in Almanac", "response": "Silver is a chemical element with the symbol Ag (Latin: argentum) and atomic number 47. Atlanteans used silver for much of their building material, having learned how to make it stronger and more durable than any steel alloy created on Earth. Showoffs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the flashlight", "response": "You switch the flashlight on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "What's this? The light from the flashlight illuminates a twinkly pattern on the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pattern", "response": "The pattern sparkles and twinkles in the artificial light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Touch pattern", "response": "You reach out for the pattern, and a spark of static shocks your finger. You reach out again, and you are Drawn Inside.\n\nThe interior of the Atlantean's base is a great deal more hospitable than the lunar surface was. But that's not saying much. The walls of this room are as shiny and silvery as the giant silvery wall was outside. A simple, unmarked doorway leads north.\nAt last - you're on the brink of discovering what fate your parents met. Perhaps they're even still alive! Maybe they can reassure you that Aunt Bertha was your aunt by marriage and not by blood...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 6, \"Entering the Unknown\", was written by Mark J. Musante.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "East and west sparkle and twinkle at you, down a long featureless corridor. A doorway is in the south wall, with a Greek letter theta above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drop almanac", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nYou can see Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nEast and west sparkle and twinkle at you, down a long featureless corridor. A doorway is in the south wall, with a Greek letter theta above.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nEast and west sparkle and twinkle at you, down a long featureless corridor. A doorway is in the south wall, with a Greek letter theta above.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nWhat's this? A small yet silvery box? This wasn't here before, was it?\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nWhat's this? A small yet silvery box? This wasn't here before, was it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nEast and west sparkle and twinkle at you, down a long featureless corridor. A doorway is in the south wall, with a Greek letter theta above.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nEast and west sparkle and twinkle at you, down a long featureless corridor. A doorway is in the south wall, with a Greek letter theta above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nWhat's this? A small yet silvery box? This wasn't here before, was it?\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nEast and west sparkle and twinkle at you, down a long featureless corridor. A doorway is in the south wall, with a Greek letter theta above.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nWhat's this? A small yet silvery box? This wasn't here before, was it?\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Silvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nSilvery, sparkily, twinkly walls all tend to blend into your vision and make it all so very disorienting. You're pretty sure the corridor leads east and west, but it's hard to be certain.\n\nWhat's this? A small yet silvery box? This wasn't here before, was it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Smallish and silveryish. A fine seam runs round the outside indicating that it could be opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the box", "response": "You open the small silver box, revealing a complicated button.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat box", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the controls", "response": "A vast wall of dials, levers, knobs, gears, and readouts. If you started at one end and analyzed them until you got to the other, it would probably take you three days, and you would be none the wiser for it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up mom in Almanac", "response": "Your mother was a beautiful, amazing woman, as far as you can remember. Unfortunately, she was abducted by the Atlanteans when you were but a wee child, and you were sent to live with horrible Aunt Bertha.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the aunt bertha in Almanac", "response": "Aunt Bertha wasn't exactly your favorite aunt. When you were forced to stay with her as a child, she told you horrible, terrible bedtime stories about small children being eviscerated by wallabies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the wallabies in Almanac", "response": "Deceptively adorable, these mythical creatures from the fictional continent of Australia are smaller than their closely-related (though equally mythical) cousin, the kangaroo. Seeing as how neither one exists, the dividing line between what constitutes a wallaby and what constitutes a kangaroo is somewhat arbitrary. In general, a wallaby is smaller and stockier than a kangaroo, a kangaroo is generally larger and lankier than a wallaby, and a \"wallaroo\" is what you call a specimen if you can't bring yourself to otherwise pigeon-hole the creature. In myth, wallabies, kangaroos, and wallaroos live in a variety of habitats, and one can never be entirely certain that any given area is safe from their kicking feet and sharpened claws. They have even been known to exist in vinyards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "(the crack in the wall)\nIt wouldn't even be noticable if it wasn't in the middle of an otherwise blank section of wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the floor", "response": "You can barely discern a faint, gentle humming under the floor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Even deeper still inside the Atlantean Base. Complex machinery hums deep within, and complex controls line every wall of this large, cavernous room. The walls are still silvery, though. There does not appear to be any exit.\n\nA hairline fracture can be seen in the southeast wall, not even wide enough to put your fingernail inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "(first opening the crack in the wall)\nThat's not something you can open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the fracture in Almanac", "response": "Fracturing bones is usually quite painful and should generally be avoided as a matter of course. Skeletal fractures can occur in an infinite number of ways, only a few of which are included here for the sake of brevity:\n\n---> Getting lit and taking your lunar rover for a spin without due regard for the safety of yourself or others.\n\n---> Getting lit, then challenging a boar grumptar to a wrestling match.\n\n---> Getting lit and pretending you can fly over a lunar crater.\n\nPlease notice the common thread in all of these examples and remember the anti-binging slogan, kids: UNCHECKED DRINKING LEADS TO ABSENCE OF THINKING! And that's one to grow on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the grumptar in Almanac", "response": "Not to be confused with your Aunt Bertha, grumptars are a very dangerous species indeed. AFGNCAAPs which have wrestled with a boar grumptar and lived to tell the tale state that the only creature they fear more is the grue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the afgncaap in Almanac", "response": "Ageless, Faceless, Gender Neutral, Culturally Ambiguous Adventure Person. DUH. Didn't you pay attention during IF Theory? Or were you too busy dreaming about going into space? Well, your day dreams certainly paid off, didn't they, slacker?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up the controls in Almanac", "response": "The Atlanteans are notorious for the complexity of their machinery, and the controls for those machines are generally just as complex. Whether through superstition or habit, however, their dislike of the number 14 means that this setting is usually skipped for most controls, and if it is included, it is usually involved with some sort of fail-safe measure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say 14", "response": "(to yourself)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the controls", "response": "A vast wall of dials, levers, knobs, gears, and readouts. If you started at one end and analyzed them until you got to the other, it would probably take you three days, and you would be none the wiser for it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search controls", "response": "Without something particular to search for, your task is hopeless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search controls for 14", "response": "A-ha! In an otherwise unremarkable corner is a dial with a 14 on it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dial", "response": "The dial is fairly unremarkable, but it can be set to all values between 1 and 20.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You set the dial to 14", "response": "The machinery rumbles and roars as part by part of it screeches to a halt! The room shudders and groans until you have to plug your ears from the noise. Finally, the dust settles and everything is quiet.\nThe dial seems to have come off in your hands, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the dial", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Even deeper still inside the Atlantean Base. Complex machinery hums deep within, and complex controls line every wall of this large, cavernous room. The walls are still silvery, though. There does not appear to be any exit.\n\nAll the shuddering has opened the crack wide enough for you to slip through to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 8, \"Mechanisms and More\", was written by Admiral Jota.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the damaged scroll", "response": "This scroll is in bad shape. Not only is the handle broken off and the material itself fraying at the edges, but there are two distinct sets of text inscribed on it: the original Atlantean text, which you can make neither head nor tail of, and then a separate message written over that in black marker -- and in your mother's handwriting!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the scroll", "response": "With black marker and in an uneven hand, someone -- apparently your mother, from the handwriting -- has scrawled this message: \"Have we escaped from her voice? Maybe if we press on, go further in... If I did not have my husband and he I, then surely we would have both been driven mad by now. She calls herself Lucy, and she sends such confusing hullicinations. I fear that even my memories can no longer be trusted. She seems to want us to trust her, but I cannot understand why... Whoever you are, if you find this, you must resist her suggestions at all costs! I think. I honestly no longer know why... or even what is real anymore. It is as though everything is slipping away... No. I am certain we will find answers further on. Onward, always, onward, always, onward...\" It trails off into a scrawl at that point.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Dozens of pigeon holes line the walls, most of them filled with what could only be scrolls. The ceiling of the room is paneled with some kind of crystalline material; the panels glow softly, providing a gentle illumination.\n\nYou can see the room filled with machinery through the crack to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the panels", "response": "The ceiling of the room is paneled with some kind of crystalline material; the panels glow softly, providing a gentle illumination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the scrolls", "response": "Time has not been kind to this repository of information, and many of the scrolls are damaged or missing. But by the number of brightly-colored handles sticking out of their pigeon-holes, it would seem a fair number have survived.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search scrolls", "response": "This one is wedged tightly in its slot... That one is too fragile, and would probably crumble if you pulled too hard on it.. Ah, but here's one that you slide out easily. It seems to be decorated with colorful pictures.\n\nThere may even be more loose ones, if you keep looking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search scrolls", "response": "After a little more searching, you discover another scroll that can be safely removed: one with a distinctive silvery handle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the colorful scroll", "response": "Most of the text on this scroll is in a dialect that's utterly indecipherable to you. However, it does feature several colorful diagrams, and you notice that the numerals they're labeled with look remarkably like modern ones. Most of the pictures seem to depict complicated mechanisms that you can't quite follow, although there does seem to be a definite progression of colors from light blue, through green and then yellow, finally leading up to a reddish-orange. The simplest diagram you can find is made of gemotric shapes: two equilateral triangles. The message next to the smaller one includes the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4. The larger one has a similar caption, but with the numbers 5, 10, 15, and 20.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the silvery scroll", "response": "This scroll contains some rather boring honorations to Atlantean doctors gone long before your grandparents were born. Your father has scribbled over this one in his distinctive, plain handwriting: \"What can we do? Everything is so strange here, everything is locked, or dangerous...or worse. Those hallucinations, they are all to real? How shall I decide what's what? She, Lucy, stole my pet, hide it somewhere beneath the small chamber. How to free him?\"\n\n-Is this a trick? You can't remember your parents having any pets. Must've been after you left, then.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the floor", "response": "You can barely discern a faint, gentle humming under the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A long corridor leads east and west. To the west is the archive and lobby. To the east is a closed door made of some kind of greenish metal. Archways lead north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The machinery in here seems to be composed primarily of springs, interlocking gears, larger springs, large padded plates set up parallel to the floor, even larger springs, some sort of piston-like things, and even a few absurdly large springs. Conveniently, there seems to be some kind of control panel for it all right next to the entrance (which leads back south to the corridor).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the panel", "response": "Inconveniently, someone seems to have partially disassembled it. You can see the places where controls are supposed to be attached (along with their labels which you can't read), but all the knobs, switches, dials and levers have been removed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the dial on the panel", "response": "The dial clicks neatly into place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You set the dial to 14", "response": "But that could start all that shaking again!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take dial", "response": "It's now locked into place. You can still set it to different numbers, but it doesn't seem to want to separate from the rest of the panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "At your touch, the door slides open automatically.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This room is small and round. It's only feature is a hole in the ground, through which you can see rungs leading downwards, and the metal door through which you came.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Steel coats the walls of this long and narrow room. A hole in the ceiling leads back up. A doorway leads east. The stench of rotting meat waves through it. Next to the doorway, you can see a cage of reinforced glass, which is connected to the next room by a grille.\n\nIn the cage you see a penguin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the penguin", "response": "A cute little penguin, looking heartbreakingly out of place. He looks at you with big, scared, black eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cage", "response": "You can't. The only entry is the food slot on top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Almanac in the slot", "response": "Every Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy slides into the cage.\nIt misses the penguin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is some sort of makeshift cell. The walls are steel platings, with dents here and there as a fist or a head-ram may make. The stench of rotten flesh is almost unbearable and stems from a huge heap of half-eaten animals and bones in a corner. There is some writing on the wall, just above the grille.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the eastern doorway.\n\nAn enormous troll sits in the corner of this room! Upon spotting you, she stands up and groans.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine troll", "response": "A female Atlantean troll. She's tall and lean, but all there is to her seems to be muscle under a green skin covered with eczema and blains. Her head is small and round, with protruding veins and short, broken horns. She's covered in the remains of a silvery jumpsuit.\n\nThe troll slowly moves towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the troll about the penguin", "response": "There is no reply.\n\nShe has almost reached you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the writing", "response": "HAVE FUN! -Lucille\n\nAs the troll bites off your head (mercifully quick and mumbling \"I don't wanna do this Dave\"), you think you can hear Lucy laugh somewhere, the sound somewhat muffled as your head sinks down the troll's throat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "Dozens of pigeon holes line the walls, most of them filled with what could only be scrolls. The ceiling of the room is paneled with some kind of crystalline material; the panels flicker erratically, lighting the room in fits and bursts. A corridor leads east.\n\nYou can see the room filled with machinery through the crack to the northwest.\n\nOne of the scrolls has been left lying here on the floor. It looks badly damaged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A long corridor leads east and west. To the west is the archive and lobby. To the east is a closed door made of some kind of greenish metal. Archways lead north and south.\n\nYou realize that the rumbling you felt earlier hasn't stopped completely. Messing around with that machinery must have destabilized something deep within the complex, because you can still feel a vibration coming up through your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the metal door)\nAt your touch, the door slides halfway open. Then it shudders, jerking back and forth for a few moments before slamming shut again. Whatever it is that powers the door seems to be malfunctioning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Dozens of pigeon holes line the walls, most of them filled with what could only be scrolls. The ceiling of the room is paneled with some kind of crystalline material; the panels flicker erratically, lighting the room in fits and bursts. A corridor leads east.\n\nYou can see the room filled with machinery through the crack to the northwest.\n\nOne of the scrolls has been left lying here on the floor. It looks badly damaged.\n\nThe shaking seems to be growing stronger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "A long corridor leads east and west. To the west is the archive and lobby. To the east is a closed door made of some kind of greenish metal. Archways lead north and south.\n\nThe vibration in the floor suddenly gets much stronger. For a moment it feels as though everything is about to come down on your head, but then it subsides again to the same mild trembling it was before.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The machinery in here seems to be composed primarily of springs, interlocking gears, larger springs, large padded plates set up parallel to the floor, even larger springs, some sort of piston-like things, and even a few absurdly large springs. Conveniently, there seems to be some kind of control panel for it all right next to the entrance (which leads back south to the corridor).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the dial on the panel", "response": "The dial clicks neatly into place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This room seems to exist soley to house an elaborate mechanism which is shaking dramatically. If you had to guess, you would say it looked like some kind of power generator -- although what kind of power it generates, you have no idea. A railing protects you from being injured by whatever it is. Or perhaps it prevents whatever it is from being damaged by you. An archway leads back north to the corridor.\n\nThe shaking seems to be growing stronger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe machinery starts shaking violently, as though the strain it's been under has become too great for it to handle. Just as it seems about to tear itself apart, all that energy is somehow shunted back into the ground, nearly knocking you off of your feet. After that, the shuddering seems to die back down to what it was before, and the crystals seem to have changed color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crystal", "response": "Which do you mean, the large crystal, or the small crystal?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine large", "response": "The large crystal is easily as tall as you are. Its surface is perfectly clear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine small", "response": "While much smaller than the large crystal, it's still rather larger than your head. Its surface is firey orange.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial to 4", "response": "The machinery shifts and reconfigures itself in response. You immediately notice a significant dampening of the vibrations that you've been feeling ever since you entered this area. What was once a constant (if minor) trembling of the ground is now naught but a barely-perceptible hum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This room seems to exist soley to house an elaborate mechanism. If you had to guess, you would say it looked like some kind of power generator -- although what kind of power it generates, you have no idea. A railing protects you from being injured by whatever it is. Or perhaps it prevents whatever it is from being damaged by you. An archway leads back north to the corridor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine large", "response": "The large crystal is easily as tall as you are. Its surface is perfectly clear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at small", "response": "While much smaller than the large crystal, it's still rather larger than your head. Its surface is perfectly clear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up troll in Almanac", "response": "These creatures were breed as watchhound for millennia. They are considered strupid and slow, but are nigh indestructable due to incredible powers of regeneration. Some people even kept them as pets in the old days. Those were considered unwise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Dozens of pigeon holes line the walls, most of them filled with what could only be scrolls. The ceiling of the room is paneled with some kind of crystalline material; the panels glow softly, providing a gentle illumination.\n\nYou can see the room filled with machinery through the crack to the northwest.\n\nOne of the scrolls has been left lying here on the floor. It looks badly damaged.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "(first opening the metal door)\nAt your touch, the door slides open automatically.\n\nThis room is small and round. It's only feature is a hole in the ground, through which you can see rungs leading downwards, and the metal door through which you came.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Steel coats the walls of this long and narrow room. A hole in the ceiling leads back up. A doorway leads east. The stench of rotting meat waves through it. Next to the doorway, you can see a cage of reinforced glass, which is connected to the next room by a grille.\n\nIn the cage you see a penguin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the grille", "response": "The cage is cubical, its sides made of reinforced glass. The is a huge red button on the side of it, with wires disappearing into the eastern wall, just beside the grille. There is a food slot on top.\n\nIn the cage you see the penguin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is some sort of makeshift cell. The walls are steel platings, with dents here and there as a fist or a head-ram may make. The stench of rotten flesh is almost unbearable and stems from a huge heap of half-eaten animals and bones in a corner. There is some writing on the wall, just above the grille.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the eastern doorway.\n\nAn enormous troll sits in the corner of this room! Upon spotting you, she stands up and groans.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Steel coats the walls of this long and narrow room. A hole in the ceiling leads back up. A doorway leads east. The stench of rotting meat waves through it. Next to the doorway, you can see a cage of reinforced glass, which is connected to the next room by a grille.\n\nIn the cage you see a penguin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is some sort of makeshift cell. The walls are steel platings, with dents here and there as a fist or a head-ram may make. The stench of rotten flesh is almost unbearable and stems from a huge heap of half-eaten animals and bones in a corner. There is some writing on the wall, just above the grille.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the eastern doorway.\n\nYou also see a very ugly troll.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the grille", "response": "A normal grille.\n\nThe troll slowly moves towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wires", "response": "The cage is cubical, its sides made of reinforced glass. The is a huge red button on the side of it, with wires disappearing into the eastern wall, just beside the grille. There is a food slot on top.\n\nIn the cage you see the penguin.\n\nThe troll arrives from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is some sort of makeshift cell. The walls are steel platings, with dents here and there as a fist or a head-ram may make. The stench of rotten flesh is almost unbearable and stems from a huge heap of half-eaten animals and bones in a corner. There is some writing on the wall, just above the grille.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the eastern doorway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the writing", "response": "HAVE FUN! -Lucille", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the grille", "response": "A normal grille.\n\nThe troll arrives from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine field", "response": "A weak force field. You suppose it's meant to keep the troll's food from escaping, as it's too weak to even stop something human-sized, let alone a troll.\n\nThe troll slowly moves towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "It tickles a bit, but you can slip through effortlessly.\n\nThis is a small, almost featureless room. A plate sits next to the eastern doorway, and a huge metal door leads north.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the western doorway.\n\nYou can also see a steel door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plate", "response": "A smooth metal plate. It has a small, F-shaped lock on its side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "This door is square and made of steel. It has a viewscreen in the middle and a ridiciously small numberpad underneath it.\n\nThe troll slides through the force field as effortlessly as you did.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the numberpad", "response": "A numberpad with pads so small you'd need to have toothpick-sized fingers to enter something.\n\nThe troll slowly moves towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "It tickles a bit, but you can slip through effortlessly.\n\nThis is some sort of makeshift cell. The walls are steel platings, with dents here and there as a fist or a head-ram may make. The stench of rotten flesh is almost unbearable and stems from a huge heap of half-eaten animals and bones in a corner. There is some writing on the wall, just above the grille.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the eastern doorway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search heap", "response": "Holding your breath, you carefully move aside animal parts, some dry and rough, others sickeningly wet and slippery. You finally grab the uniform. Fishing around in its pocket, you get a strange, f-shaped key, which you pocket. Then you throw the uniform back on the heap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the uniform", "response": "A waist-high heap of death flesh. Mostly animals, but you think you can see a uniform somewhere in it. Of course, not everything is dead. There are flies. Lots of flies.\n\nThe troll slides through the force field as effortlessly as you did.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the key", "response": "It's a key and it's f-shaped.\n\nThe troll slowly moves towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "It tickles a bit, but you can slip through effortlessly.\n\nThis is a small, almost featureless room. A plate sits next to the eastern doorway, and a huge metal door leads north.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the western doorway.\n\nYou can also see a steel door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the plate with key", "response": "You unlock the plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the plate", "response": "The plate swings to the side, revealing a valve.\n\nThe troll slides through the force field as effortlessly as you did.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the valve", "response": "It can be turned to two settings: \"Normal\" and \"Security\". It's currently set to \"Normal\".\n\nThe troll slowly moves towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "It tickles a bit, but you can slip through effortlessly.\n\nThis is some sort of makeshift cell. The walls are steel platings, with dents here and there as a fist or a head-ram may make. The stench of rotten flesh is almost unbearable and stems from a huge heap of half-eaten animals and bones in a corner. There is some writing on the wall, just above the grille.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the eastern doorway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe troll slides through the force field as effortlessly as you did.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn valve", "response": "You turn the valve to \"Security.\"\n\nThe troll moving through the Security force field is a dreadful sight, her hands and feet are shredded and instantly regrow. Then her torso splatters through. As the force field reaches her heart, she suddenly disappears in a puff of green smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn valve", "response": "You turn the valve to \"Normal.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "This is a small, almost featureless room. A plate sits next to the eastern doorway, and a huge metal door leads north.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the western doorway.\n\nYou can also see a steel door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "It tickles a bit, but you can slip through effortlessly.\n\nThis is some sort of makeshift cell. The walls are steel platings, with dents here and there as a fist or a head-ram may make. The stench of rotten flesh is almost unbearable and stems from a huge heap of half-eaten animals and bones in a corner. There is some writing on the wall, just above the grille.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the eastern doorway.\n\nYou can also see a herring here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the herring", "response": "A normal herring. Somehow you're surprised it isn't red.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 9, \"The cute and the Deadly\", was written by Taleslinger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Steel coats the walls of this long and narrow room. A hole in the ceiling leads back up. A doorway leads east. The stench of rotting meat waves through it. Next to the doorway, you can see a cage of reinforced glass, which is connected to the next room by a grille.\n\nIn the cage you see a penguin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the herring to the penguin", "response": "The penguin is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the herring in the slot", "response": "The herring slides into the cage.\nIt misses the penguin.\n\nThe penguin dives for the herring, gulping it down in one huge bite. He slaps his wings happily and looks at you lovingly. Looks like you made a new friend.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "This is some sort of makeshift cell. The walls are steel platings, with dents here and there as a fist or a head-ram may make. The stench of rotten flesh is almost unbearable and stems from a huge heap of half-eaten animals and bones in a corner. There is some writing on the wall, just above the grille.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the eastern doorway.\n\nYou can also see a penguin here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the penguin", "response": "A cute little penguin, looking heartbreakingly out of place. He flaps his wings happily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet penguin", "response": "The penguin rubs his head on your hand and squawks happily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "It tickles a bit, but you can slip through effortlessly.\n\nThis is a small, almost featureless room. A plate sits next to the eastern doorway, and a huge metal door leads north.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the western doorway.\n\nYou can also see a steel door here.\n\nThe penguin squeaks as he waddles though the force field.\n\nThe penguin waddles straight towards the steel door and pecks at the numberpad. The door beeps approvingly and a pneumatic hissing indicates it is indeed unlocked.\n\nYou stare in wonder at the small animal and can't help thinking he'd smirk if he could.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You open the steel door.\n\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Improbably, you are in your father's bedroom. It has been ransacked except for the portrait of Grandfather XVIII. A hallway lies to the east; the maintenance room, where you dispatched the troll, to the south.\n\nYou can see a steel door and a science fiction novel here.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "Scene 10, \"Puff of Smoke\", was written by N. B. Horvath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the novel", "response": "This was one of your favorites as a child. It describes a nightmare world in which bodies are preserved after death. The hero fights to gain social acceptance for \"cremation\" and thus save the planet from being overrun by \"cemeteries.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "This door is square and made of steel. It has a viewscreen in the middle and a ridiciously small numberpad underneath it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the portrait", "response": "The portrait stares back at you with beady, tired eyes. XVIII isn't his name, of course; this is just an old Atlantean tradition of numbering important ancestors. If your number is in the upper teens, you must be pretty grumping important. You were always amazed that Father kept this portrait in his room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Improbably, you are in your father's bedroom. It has been ransacked except for the portrait of Grandfather XVIII. A hallway lies to the east; the maintenance room, where you dispatched the troll, to the south.\n\nYou can see a penguin, a steel door, and a science fiction novel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "As you enter the hallway, the penguin scoots past you to a previously unseen keypad, then pecks a few digits. A secret passageway opens to the south.\n\nYou are in a regally carpeted east-west hallway. At the east end, an urnstone door leads to the foyer, while a secret passageway leads south.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Before you can take a step toward the foyer, the penguin steps in front of you and hops silently up and down, eyes wide and pleading. Listening at the urnstone door, you hear the characteristic wheeze of a Koskos. No way are you going in there. You are no match for a Koskos.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up Koskos in Almanac", "response": "A squat, compact monster, often used as a guard. The troll is the natural enemy of the Koskos. Many wealthy Atlanteans employ both trolls and Koskii, but those who do so make sure to keep them separate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Your father's vast laboratory looks entirely different from when you last were in this house. A frightening contraption fills the west end of the room floor-to-ceiling. A teak desk sits along the east wall. The hallway lies to the north, the annex to the south, and the Taboo Room to the southeast.\n\nOn the teak desk is a jagged-edge scroll.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are in a regally carpeted east-west hallway. At the east end, an urnstone door leads to the foyer, while a secret passageway leads south.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Your father's vast laboratory looks entirely different from when you last were in this house. A frightening contraption fills the west end of the room floor-to-ceiling. A teak desk sits along the east wall. The hallway lies to the north, the annex to the south, and the Taboo Room to the southeast.\n\nOn the teak desk is a jagged-edge scroll.\n\nYou can see a penguin here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scroll", "response": "It is a letter to your father from Grandfather VI, begging him to stop his research and invoking the memory of Grandfather XVIII.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at contraption", "response": "The exterior of this machine is all orange and red stripes, apart from a six-foot-high entryway which is solid black. You can't stop looking at those stripes, until finally you look away at a room that has changed ...\n\nYour father and a female assistant are standing outside of the contraption, clad in white coats, arguing heatedly over his insistence that she be a test subject. Ultimately she relents, giving him a desperate kiss and then walking into the device with head down and eyes squeezed shut.\n\nThere is a single click, and then the entire structure shudders. You hear screams and thuds as the shaking continues for at least a minute. Then there is silence.\n\nOut of the machine steps not the assistant, but Lucille. She is looking directly at you with hate in her eyes.\n\nThe hallucination ends as abruptly as it began.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are in a small annex to the large lab. This room is dominated by a mysterious chamber. The main lab is to the north and a closed wooden door is to the east.\n\nYou can see a plain glass bottle (empty) (closed) and an empty cage here.\n\nYou notice that a thin layer of salmon-pink smoke has gathered under the ceiling.\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bottle", "response": "The empty bottle is completely nondescript, lacking any label or other distinctive feature. The bottle is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chamber", "response": "The mysterious chamber is like a miniature gazebo, a platform supporting four extensible metal posts with a little dome at the top. It's all made of metal, and it's all painted midnight black. A soft pushbutton and a small, bottle-shaped receptacle jut out from one edge of the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The wooden door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine receptacle", "response": "The small receptacle is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nplain glass bottle (empty)\na f-shaped key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the smoke", "response": "The salmon-pink smoke is almost dissipated but manages to stay coherent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bottle with the smoke", "response": "It's just air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell smoke", "response": "The salmon-pink smoke is odorless, but it does seem to signify something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bottle", "response": "It takes a surprisingly strong effort to open the bottle. Finally it opens with a shhhhoop sound. In an instant, the salmon-pink smoke is drawn into the bottle with a whhhhhhhip; then it closes again with a ffffoomp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the smoke", "response": "The salmon-pink smoke inside the closed bottle is inert, unmoving.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are in a small annex to the large lab. This room is dominated by a mysterious chamber. The main lab is to the north and a closed wooden door is to the east.\n\nYou can see a penguin and an empty cage here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chamber", "response": "The mysterious chamber is like a miniature gazebo, a platform supporting four extensible metal posts with a little dome at the top. It's all made of metal, and it's all painted midnight black. A soft pushbutton and a small, bottle-shaped receptacle jut out from one edge of the platform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bottle in the receptacle", "response": "You put the plain glass bottle (containing salmon-pink smoke) into the small receptacle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open chamber", "response": "That's not something you can open.\n\nThe rattling grows louder inside the chamber. The platform starts to glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the platform", "response": "The mysterious chamber is like a miniature gazebo, a platform supporting four extensible metal posts with a little dome at the top. It's all made of metal, and it's all painted midnight black. A soft pushbutton and a small, bottle-shaped receptacle jut out from one edge of the platform.\n\nThe rattle becomes an infernal thunder coming from underneath the shaking platform, as the glow spreads to the entire chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the platform", "response": "The mysterious chamber is like a miniature gazebo, a platform supporting four extensible metal posts with a little dome at the top. It's all made of metal, and it's all painted midnight black. A soft pushbutton and a small, bottle-shaped receptacle jut out from one edge of the platform.\n\nThe thunder peaks, then dies down as the glow fades.\nA little pink-coated rat appears on top of the platform, then scurries away out of sight.\n\nThe now-empty bottle pops back into the receptacle from within the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the wooden door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are in a small utility closet.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelf", "response": "As good-looking as ever.\n\nYou are horrendously drunk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are in a small annex to the large lab. This room is dominated by a mysterious chamber. The main lab is to the north and an open wooden door is to the east.\n\nYou can see an empty cage here.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "This is the room where your mother (also a scientist, who left under mysterious circumstances) worked on her most taboo project. This project not only violated the edicts of Grandfather XVIII, it stood in stark violation of the prohibition against time travel. Rumor had it that once the project was complete, anyone who prayed in the Taboo Room would trigger the creation of a spatio-temporal anchor, something that would alter the very fabric of reality. You were always a little curious about it.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "Enter saved game to store: Save failed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Your father's vast laboratory looks entirely different from when you last were in this house. A frightening contraption fills the west end of the room floor-to-ceiling. A teak desk sits along the east wall. The hallway lies to the north, the annex to the south, and the Taboo Room to the southeast.\n\nOn the teak desk is a jagged-edge scroll.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.\n\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Improbably, you are in your father's bedroom. It has been ransacked except for the portrait of Grandfather XVIII. A hallway lies to the east; the maintenance room, where you dispatched the troll, to the south.\n\nYou can see a steel door and a science fiction novel here.\n\nYou notice that a thin layer of sea-green smoke has gathered under the ceiling. It must have seeped in from the maintenance room.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This is a small, almost featureless room. A plate sits next to the eastern doorway, and a huge metal door leads north.\n\nA weak red force field shimmers in the western doorway.\n\nYou can also see a steel door here.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bottle", "response": "It takes a surprisingly strong effort to open the bottle. Finally it opens with a shhhhoop sound. In an instant, the sea-green smoke is drawn into the bottle with a whhhhhhhip; then it closes again with a ffffoomp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bottle in the receptacle", "response": "You put the plain glass bottle (containing sea-green smoke) into the small receptacle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe rattling grows louder inside the chamber. The platform starts to glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in a small utility closet.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.\n\nThe rattle becomes an infernal thunder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the wooden door.\n\nThe thunder peaks, then dies down.\nYou hear the roar of the troll, followed by the howl of the Koskos. The troll stomps off toward the hallway. A moment later, you hear the terrible sound of Koskos-troll combat.\n\nFinally you hear a pitiful yowl, followed by a bang. Then silence returns to the house.\n\nIt is now pitch dark in here!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the wooden door.\n\nYou are in a small utility closet.\n\nYou can see a penguin here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are in a small annex to the large lab. This room is dominated by a mysterious chamber. The main lab is to the north and an open wooden door is to the east.\n\nYou can see an empty cage here.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "(first opening the urnstone door)\n\nYou are in the foyer of your childhood home. To your north is what remains of the front door. It has been torn off its hinges, leaving the forest beyond it visible. You shudder to think about how one monster died here and the other escaped.\n\nIntact exits lie to the east and west.\n\nYou notice that a thin layer of cobalt-blue smoke has gathered under the ceiling.\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na f-shaped key\nEvery Child's Almanac of Lunar Conspiracy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Your father's vast laboratory looks entirely different from when you last were in this house. A frightening contraption fills the west end of the room floor-to-ceiling. A teak desk sits along the east wall. The hallway lies to the north, the annex to the south, and the Taboo Room to the southeast.\n\nOn the teak desk is a jagged-edge scroll.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.\n\nYou are in a regally carpeted east-west hallway. At the east end, an urnstone door leads to the foyer, while a secret passageway leads south.\n\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in the foyer of your childhood home. To your north is what remains of the front door. It has been torn off its hinges, leaving the forest beyond it visible. You shudder to think about how one monster died here and the other escaped.\n\nIntact exits lie to the east and west.\n\nYou notice that a thin layer of cobalt-blue smoke has gathered under the ceiling.\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bottle", "response": "It takes a surprisingly strong effort to open the bottle. Finally it opens with a shhhhoop sound. In an instant, the cobalt-blue smoke is drawn into the bottle with a whhhhhhhip; then it closes again with a ffffoomp.\n\nYou have a terrible feeling about what you just did. Taboos against time travel notwithstanding, you wish you could undo it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in your father's study. It has been cleaned out except for an urnstone end table against one wall.\n\nOn the urnstone end table is a quickpulp scroll.\n\nYou notice that a thin layer of dark-orange smoke has gathered under the ceiling.\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the quickpulp", "response": "The quickpulp scroll contains a note to you from your father. It reads:\n\nDear Dave,\n\nHaving made it home first, I wish I had a happier Welcome Back to give to you. I'm afraid I did not treat your mother well, and you have seen how Lucille treated me far worse even than that. I have only now learned the extent of Lucy's cruelty. I pray that you can not only forgive but save me -- and save my beloved Rex, too. (I couldn't handle the \"empty nest\" after you left. So I added a new nest.) He is the only one who can unlock the doors. If you are reading this message, it means the worst has happened for me.\n\nWell, perhaps not entirely the worst. My experiments in wuolui have borne the most incredib\n\nHere the writing stops abruptly.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look up the wuolui in Almanac", "response": "The ancient Atlantean art of resurrection, long believed lost and in any case considered morally wrong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bottle", "response": "It takes a surprisingly strong effort to open the bottle. Finally it opens with a shhhhoop sound. In an instant, the dark-orange smoke is drawn into the bottle with a whhhhhhhip; then it closes again with a ffffoomp.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "You are in your father's study. It has been cleaned out except for an urnstone end table against one wall.\n\nOn the urnstone end table is a quickpulp scroll.\n\nYou can see a penguin here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are in the foyer of your childhood home. To your north is what remains of the front door. It has been torn off its hinges, leaving the forest beyond it visible. You shudder to think about how one monster died here and the other escaped.\n\nIntact exits lie to the east and west.\n\nYou notice that a thin layer of cobalt-blue smoke has gathered under the ceiling.\nThe penguin waddles along.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put bottle in the receptacle", "response": "You put the plain glass bottle (containing dark-orange smoke) into the small receptacle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe rattling grows louder inside the chamber. The platform starts to glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe rattle becomes an infernal thunder coming from underneath the shaking platform, as the glow spreads to the entire chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe thunder peaks, then dies down as the glow fades.\nYour father materializes in the chamber and gives you an unreadable look. Fendit permitting, the two of you have some catching up to do.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Humor" ]

[ "magic", "ridiculous", "SpeedIF", "time travel" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "What a long and difficult journey it was! But at least you've found your way to this hotel. Even though the cab driver seemed mysteriously ignorant of its existence.\n\nThe peeling wallpaper and cracking plaster inspires a distinct lack of confidence. The room is both dank and dim, and the furniture inside the room seems crammed into a space too small to contain it. Wan, watery light filters in, scattered by the skeletal fingers of a dead tree right outside the room. The door out of your room is to the west; south is a tiny kitchenette and north is the bathroom.\n\nAn old-fashioned writing desk with a drawer in the corner is reasonably creepy.\n\nYou can also see a pink sink, a hatch, an invisible mirror, a creepy bed, a chair, a large portrait of Millard Fillmore, a historic lamp and a large wooden door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "It's a frame for a mirror, but the mirror itself isn't actually there. Weird. And kind of cheap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the portrait", "response": "An unfinished portrait of third president Millard Fillmore hangs from the wall. His torso and nose appear to be mostly missing. The dead president's eyes seem to be watching you. Creepy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "It looks historic. A nearby plaque affixed to the wall reads \"This lamp was donated by the Sisters of Infinite Benevolence to light the way through the Irish Potato Famine of 1843.\"\n\nThe historic lamp is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the portrait", "response": "An unfinished portrait of seventeenth president Millard Fillmore hangs from the wall. His torso and nose appear to be mostly missing. The dead president's eyes seem to be watching you. Creepy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the portrait", "response": "An unfinished portrait of thirteenth president Millard Fillmore hangs from the wall. His torso and nose appear to be mostly missing. The dead president's eyes seem to be watching you. Creepy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chair", "response": "This unattractive chair is neither cheap enough to be easily broken, nor well-made enough to be comfortable to sit in. The chair is light enough to be moved, but is equally unpleasant no matter where in the small room you move it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit in chair", "response": "After a second of sitting in the chair, your lower back protests.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move chair", "response": "You push the chair over beneath the hatchway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hatch", "response": "A mysterious hatchway which looks very much like something you would like to open and then enter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open hatch", "response": "The hatch is bolted on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock hatch", "response": "What do you want to unlock the hatch with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Room 13 (on the chair)\nThe peeling wallpaper and cracking plaster inspires a distinct lack of confidence. The room is both dank and dim, and the furniture inside the room seems crammed into a space too small to contain it. Wan, watery light filters in, scattered by the skeletal fingers of a dead tree right outside the room. The door out of your room is to the west; south is a tiny kitchenette and north is the bathroom.\n\nAn old-fashioned writing desk with a drawer in the corner is reasonably creepy.\n\nYou can also see a pink sink, a hatch, an invisible mirror, a creepy bed, a large portrait of Millard Fillmore, a historic lamp and a large wooden door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lamp", "response": "It's bolted to the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "It seems to be stuck shut. This really isn't a very good hotel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the lamp", "response": "That's funny, it doesn't seem to switch on... without magic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spells", "response": "You have learned the spells: .", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the drawer", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Fillmore about the hotel", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move fillmore", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the portrait", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Strangely, the lock seems to have jammed in place. As much as you jiggle the handle, you can't seem to get it unlocked.\n\nOh dear. The doorknob has come off in your hand, leaving only an unpainted wooden circle behind. Well, you put it into your pocket; it's bound to come in useful later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the knob", "response": "Goodness me, this suggests all sorts of possibilities.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The sink is so large it is actually physically impossible to enter the bathroom. Shoddy.\n\nThe sink is so large it is actually physically impossible to enter the bathroom. Shoddy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the sink", "response": "The sink is so large it is actually physically impossible to enter the bathroom. Shoddy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock hatch", "response": "(with the doorknob)\nThat doesn't seem to be something you can unlock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull it", "response": "You are carrying:\na doorknob\n\nNothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock door", "response": "Goodness me, this suggests all sorts of possibilities.\n\n(with the doorknob)\nThat doesn't seem to fit the lock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open hatch", "response": "I only understood you as far as wanting to look.\n\nThe hatch is bolted on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the knob on Fillmore", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nPutting things on the large portrait of Millard Fillmore would achieve nothing.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Room 13 (on the chair)\nThe peeling wallpaper and cracking plaster inspires a distinct lack of confidence. The room is both dank and dim, and the furniture inside the room seems crammed into a space too small to contain it. Wan, watery light filters in, scattered by the skeletal fingers of a dead tree right outside the room. The door out of your room is to the west; south is a tiny kitchenette and north is the bathroom.\n\nAn old-fashioned writing desk with a drawer in the corner is reasonably creepy.\n\nYou can also see a pink sink, a hatch, an invisible mirror, a creepy bed, a large portrait of Millard Fillmore, a historic lamp and a large wooden door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Kitchenette (But Mostly Still In Hotel Room)\nYou can see a fridge (closed) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You open the fridge, revealing a plate of lobster fettuccine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the plate", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Kitchenette (But Mostly Still In Hotel Room)\nYou can see a fridge (empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plate", "response": "Wafts of delicious lobster-scented steam are coming off the piping hot fettuccine. Apparently the fridge is broken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat lobster", "response": "Mmm, delicious.\n\nAs you scrape the last of the delicious lobster sauce from the plate, you see that a word has been scratched into the porcelain: CHAMP.\nYour brain is wreathed in eldritch fire! The letters of the spell burn themselves into your pituitary, which you probably needed for other things. Oh well!\n\nYou can now type SPELLS to see what spells you have learned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spells", "response": "You have learned the spells: champ .", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Champ yourself", "response": "You do a dozen push-ups. Getting stronger! Every day!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan empty plate\na doorknob", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Champ plate", "response": "You'd just break it with your magically freakish muscles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The peeling wallpaper and cracking plaster inspires a distinct lack of confidence. The room is both dank and dim, and the furniture inside the room seems crammed into a space too small to contain it. Wan, watery light filters in, scattered by the skeletal fingers of a dead tree right outside the room. The door out of your room is to the west; south is a tiny kitchenette and north is the bathroom.\n\nAn old-fashioned writing desk with a drawer in the corner is reasonably creepy.\n\nYou can also see a pink sink, a hatch, an invisible mirror, a creepy bed, a chair, a large portrait of Millard Fillmore, a historic lamp and a large wooden door here.\n\nThe sink is so large it is actually physically impossible to enter the bathroom. Shoddy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Champ sink", "response": "You'd just rip the sink out of the wall! Which would be kind of awesome, but you'd lose your deposit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Champ drawer", "response": "With mighty strength, you pull open the desk drawer!\n\nYou open the drawer, revealing a word carved into the wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the word", "response": "It seems to say STAMP.\n\nYour brain is wreathed in eldritch fire! The letters of the spell burn themselves into your amygdala, which you probably needed for other things. Oh well!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp sink", "response": "A giant magical stamp appears, attempts to stamp the champed pink sink, then disappears in a huff of disappointment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spells", "response": "You have learned the spells: champ stamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp hatch", "response": "A giant magical stamp appears, attempts to stamp the hatch, then disappears in a huff of disappointment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp fillmore", "response": "Strangely enough, you can't bring yourself to mar such a large and delightful portrait of thirteenth president Millard Fillmore. Maybe if it wasn't taking up so much of your field of vision.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stamp yourself", "response": "A tattoo of a green dragon suddenly (and painlessly) appears on your torso.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp door", "response": "A giant magical stamp appears, attempts to stamp the large wooden door, then disappears in a huff of disappointment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at doorknob", "response": "Goodness me, this suggests all sorts of possibilities.\n\nIt seems to be dented.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp hatch", "response": "A giant magical stamp appears, attempts to stamp the stamped hatch, then disappears in a huff of disappointment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp bed", "response": "The plain white sheets suddenly blossom into a complicated plaid and paisley pattern. This does not make the bed more inviting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp mirror", "response": "A magical stamp appears and the blank mirror appears within the frame!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "It's now a fairly ordinary mirror with an elaborately ornate frame. Curiously, you notice that it reflects a strange word written on the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the word", "response": "(the strange word)\nThe word, which you can only see reflected in the mirror (creepy!) is CRAMP.\n\nYour brain is wreathed in eldritch fire! The letters of the spell burn themselves into your corpus callosum, which you probably needed for other things. Oh well!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cramp doorknob", "response": "The doorknob crumples in on itself. It's now a little smaller, and might fit a slightly smaller, more mysterious door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cramp sink", "response": "The champed stamped pink sink shrinks in a blink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move chair", "response": "You push the chair over beneath the hatchway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You can see a cramped champed stamped pink sink and a toilet (on which is a book called What Have You Done For Me Philately?) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "You pick up the book and flip through it as you conduct your business. It looks like there's an article you could perhaps READ.\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "You look up the Millard Fillmore stamp and discover that, due to a mix-up, several million were printed without the former president's nose. Because of this embarrassing faux-pas, the stamp is thus worth so little that being within a hundred yards of it actually reduces your credit score by a full ten points.\n\nHOWEVER, one rare proof stamp exists which contains the president's nose, and it highly prized by philatelists everywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp book", "response": "That might make it illegibile.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You can see a cramped champed stamped pink sink and a toilet here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Champ toilet", "response": "", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The peeling wallpaper and cracking plaster inspires a distinct lack of confidence. The room is both dank and dim, and the furniture inside the room seems crammed into a space too small to contain it. Wan, watery light filters in, scattered by the skeletal fingers of a dead tree right outside the room. The door out of your room is to the west; south is a tiny kitchenette and north is the bathroom.\n\nAn old-fashioned writing desk with a drawer in the corner is reasonably creepy.\n\nYou can also see a cramped champed stamped pink sink, a stamped hatch, a strange word, a mirror, a stamped creepy bed, a chair, a large portrait of Millard Fillmore, a historic lamp and a stamped large wooden door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp portrait", "response": "Strangely enough, you can't bring yourself to mar such a large and delightful portrait of twenty-second president Millard Fillmore. Maybe if it wasn't taking up so much of your field of vision.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cramp portrait", "response": "The portrait shrinks down-- at first you think it has vanished, but then you realize it has turned into a tiny square portrait about the size of stamp.\n\nOn the wall behind the portrait is a mysterious word.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Mysterious", "response": "The word is RAMP.\n\nYour brain is wreathed in eldritch fire! The letters of the spell burn themselves into your pons medulla, which you probably needed for other things. Oh well!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp portrait", "response": "A magical stamp appears and stamps the stamp. As it dissolves, you see that the image of seventeenth president Millard Fillmore now has a nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cramp lamp", "response": "The lamp shudders slightly, but utterly fails to reduce in size.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ramp yourself", "response": "You lifts a foot or so off the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ramp chair", "response": "The chair lifts a foot or so off the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on chair", "response": "A waft of pot smoke floats out of the hatch, but otherwise nothing happens.\n\nYou stand on the chair, and get much closer to the hatchway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ramp lamp", "response": "The lamp utterly fails to rise into the air, and seems to resent your interference.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cramp hatch", "response": "The stamped hatch gets a little bit smaller.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lamp lamp", "response": "You have to get something before you can lamp it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Champ hatch", "response": "You rip the hatch open with your super strength!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hatch", "response": "A mysterious hatchway which looks very much like something you would like to open and then enter.\n\nIt seems to be dented.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "The tunnel is too small for you to enter with your freakishly enlarged muscles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cramp yourself", "response": "You shrink down to a smaller but still agreeable size.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "With a mighty heave, you pull yourself upwards and into the tunnel.\n\nYou can see a cramped champed stamped hatch and the time machine here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the time machine", "response": "You know it's a time machine because of the engraving on it that reads \"Time Machine.\" There is a large red button marked \"Future.\"\n\nThe time machine is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the time machine", "response": "In a flash of actinic light, you zap your way into...\n\nYou are standing near a desk. Stretching off to the south into a nearly infinite grey distance is an twisty line of little time-travelers, all alike.\n\nSitting behind the desk is a gentleman whose name tag identifies him as \"Phillippe Lampe.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lampe about yourself", "response": "Just say TALK PERSON. No TO. We didn't have time to get to the TO.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk lampe", "response": "\"Back of the line,\" says Lampe, pointing south. When you look confused, he says \"All time travellers who ever pushed the button throughout history ended up here, in The Future. We don't have room for you all, so we're sending you back to evenly distributed points of history. We're giving the best times out first, so better get a spot in line fast.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Lampe", "response": "\"Get your hands off me!\" Lampe says. \"I'm fixed in place!\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are standing near a desk. Stretching off to the south into a nearly infinite grey distance is an twisty line of little time-travelers, all alike.\n\nSitting behind the desk is a gentleman whose name tag identifies him as \"Phillippe Lampe.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are in a time-traveling twist of little liners, all alike.\n\nBored queuers wait listlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cramp queuers", "response": "The queuers gets a little bit smaller.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Champ queuers", "response": "With great strength, you heft the cramped champed queuers above your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are in a little line of twisty time-travelers, all alike.\n\nBored queuers wait listlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are in a line of twisty little time-travelers, all alike.\n\nBored queuers wait listlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ramp queuers", "response": "The cramped champed queuers lifts a foot or so off the floor.\n\nYou overhear one of the queuers asking another \"So what are your favorite spells?\"\n\n\"Well, I'm partial to DAMP,\" she responds. \"And also VAMP, CLAMP, and CAMP. TAMP is useful when gardening, I find.\"\n\n\"Indeed,\" says the first. \"And also LIMP.\"\n\n\"No, I hate limp,\" she says. \"I use GRAMP instead.\"\n\nYour brain explodes in a fiery paroxysm of magic. Too much strain on the ol\" medula oblangata, apparently. You pass out.\n\nWhen you wake up, it seems as if you are at the end of the line, and only a few of your SPELLS have stuck around.\n\nThe line stretches off into infinity to the north.\n\nA large sign reading \"Line\" is nearby, pointing off into the misty distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spells", "response": "You have learned the spells: stampgramp.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The line stretches off into infinity to the north.\n\nA large sign reading \"Line\" is nearby, pointing off into the misty distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Gramp sign", "response": "You see nothing special about the large sign.\n\nThe large sign withers and seems suddenly much older.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You gramp yourself", "response": "cramped ramped You withers and seems suddenly much older.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp sign", "response": "A magical stamp appears and adds the words \"Front Of\" to the start of the sign.\n\nAfter a few moments, Phillippe Lampe appears and sets up his desk. He looks up at you and says \"Next?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Lampe", "response": "Just say TALK PERSON. We really didn't have time to implement TO.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk lampe", "response": "\"I'm only one day away from retirement,\" Phillippe Lampe says. \"Once I'm retired I can spend all my days searching for that elusive antique Millard Fillmore stamp I've always lusted after.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp lampe", "response": "Phillippe Lampe withers and seems suddenly much older.\n\nA giant magical stamp appears, attempts to stamp gramped Phillippe Lampe, then disappears in a huff of disappointment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na tiny portrait of thirteenth president Millard Fillmore\na stamped book called What Have You Done For Me Philately?\na champed stamped empty plate\na cramped champed stamped doorknob", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na tiny portrait of seventeenth president Millard Fillmore\na stamped book called What Have You Done For Me Philately?\na champed stamped empty plate\na cramped champed stamped doorknob", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Gramp portrait", "response": "The tiny portrait ages and yellows until it looks very old indeed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stamp portrait", "response": "A magical stamp appears and stamps the stamp. As it dissolves, you see that the image of twenty-second president Millard Fillmore now has a nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the portrait to Lampe", "response": "Lampe's eyes widen in delight. \"It's the rare stamp feature third president Millard Fillmore!\" he exclaims. \"This is just what I've always wanted!\" In a flash of joy, he quickly presses a button to send you back in time, destintation unknown, in an actinicer flash....\n\nIn the Midst of the Irish Potato Famine, 1843\nA hotel that looks as if it might one day be creepy is being built in the midst of the blight.\n\nYou can also see a wizard, a field of blighted potatoes, a brand new lamp and an inattentive nun here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the wizard", "response": "Just say TALK PERSON. We really didn't have time to implement TO.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk nun", "response": "Actually, you usually find conversation to be overrated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk potatoes", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the potatoes", "response": "(first taking the field of blighted potatoes)\nThat's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "wizard: I don't suppose the wizard would care for that.\nfield of blighted potatoes: That's fixed in place.\nunder construction hotel: That's fixed in place.\nbrand new lamp: Taken. (Nice!)\ninattentive nun: I don't suppose the inattentive nun would care for that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk wizard", "response": "The wizard speaks, in an Irish brogue, \"Time travelers from the future! Just as I predicted!\" He grips you by the collar and shouts \"It is vitally important that I teach copious amounts of magic spells so you can save the past!\"\n\nYour brain shuts down in abject terror. The wizards softens, and says \"Alright, alright, just one spell then. LAMP. It will light the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wizard", "response": "Use it wisely, my son.\"\n\nThe wizard casts DAMP and disappears in a puff of moist air.\n\nYou can't see any such thing (probably because you misspelled it).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lamp", "response": "What do you want to lamp?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lamp yourself", "response": "You have to get something before you can lamp it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lamp lamp", "response": "You lamp the lamp. The lamp lights up, and in the actinicest flash of all, you magically rematerialize in your hotel room.\n\nThe door swings open. You resolve to find a less creepy hotel.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "In this short game, the most useful commands are examine\n(X) (yourself and other things, more than once), talk\nto, ask about, touch, take, and drink things\nin the game world. If you get stuck, feel free to ask for a\nhint, if you still can. Finally, you should be listening to\nDavid Grisman and Jerry Garcia's rendition of \"Shady Grove\" while you play, for best effect.\n\nPress any key to begin.\nNarcissi\n\nWoo thyself, be of thyself rejected;\nSteal thine own freedom, and complain on theft.\nNarcissus so himself himself forsook\nAnd died to kiss his shadow in the brook.\n\nTorches are made to light, jewels to wear,\nDainties to taste, fresh beauty for the use,\nHerbs for their smell, and sappy plants to bear.\nThings growing to themselves are growth's abuse.\n\nYou have been wandering through a woods near your home, staring at your feet and paying no attention to the branching paths. You look up to find yourself in a shady grove of willow trees. Peaches in the summertime. Apples in the fall. If I can't have the girl I love I don't want none at all. The trees encircle a pond, leaning\ntowards and over it, as if they are taking care to keep it sheltered and in shadow. In a circle around the pond is a wabe of marshy grass.\n\nA gray bird with dark wings is perched on a flattened boulder that leans out and over the pond's edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pond", "response": "There are pale blue lilies floating listlessly in the pond. Flocks of tall swaying paperwhites, fully in bloom, are reflected in the rippling water as if they are floating there too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bird", "response": "Based on your sketchy knowledge of woodland birds, you think it could be a mockingbird. It appears to be standing on one foot and holding a tiny book in its other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bird about book", "response": "The mockingbird stares at you for a long moment, appraising you. Abruptly it flies up from the boulder and perches on a swaying willow branch. From there it sings out \"These trees shall be my books,\nand in their barks my thoughts I'll character, that every eye which in this forest looks, shall see thy virtue witness'd everywhere.\n\nIt preens a feather for a moment and then adds pleasantly, \"Everything should be clear to you now you gut-griping, belly-gorged, malt-worm.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "Willow trees encircle and shelter the pond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the bird about the pool", "response": "The bird rasps, \"I smell a fobbing gut-griping bum-bailey!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "The bird give your offending hand a vicious bite. It shrieks at you in fury, \"Now you've done it, you rude-growing pignut! No hints for you!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You clean yourself", "response": "You rub yourself.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You are beside the shadowed pond. In a circle around the pond is a wabe of marshy grass. Around the wabe is a circle of willow trees.\n\nThe mockingbird is perched on a swaying willow branch watching you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wabe", "response": "It looks like a manicured lawn, but it's not. Your feet make a squishy kind of noise with every step across it. It completely encircles the pond. A wabe technically surrounds a sundial, not a pond, but that's the word that came into your mind when you saw it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the pond", "response": "This pond may be connected to the brook your feet followed to get to this grove. Or perhaps it is spring fed. In either case, it is not stagnant. It looks so fresh and clean. You wonder if it would be safe to drink the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You can't get close enough to the pond from here. The wabe is so marshy, there's nowhere to safely stand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the tree", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are still dressed in the clothes you put on yesterday morning. You slept in them last night. This morning, since you were already dressed, you figured why change? Who would know, or care? You forced yourself to leave your house to go for a walk, the first time you had been out for weeks, except to grab some food and supplies from the shop with the widest aisles, and hope to find toilet paper without having to hunt across town for it. At least you only need to find enough for one person now. There's that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boulder", "response": "The large flattened stone is positioned so that it overhangs the water. It is surrounded by paperwhites and lillies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the boulder", "response": "You climb up onto the boulder.\n\nShady Grove (on the flattened boulder)\nYou are beside the shadowed pond. In a circle around the pond is a wabe of marshy grass. Around the wabe is a circle of willow trees.\n\nThe mockingbird is perched on a swaying willow branch watching you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You sit on the edge of the boulder. Pushing aside the flowers, you are able to scoop up a handful of water. The narcissi release an\nurgent message understood only by the chemically literate flora and fauna of the pond. The mockingbird shouts a raucous warning but you inhale the musky scent, understanding nothing.\n\nYou take a sip.\n\nPress any key to continue.\nAs your vision darkens all that keeps you in the world is the distant voice of the mockingbird: \"Sing willow, willow, willow: The fresh streams ran by her, and murmur'd her moans; Sing willow, willow, willow; Her salt tears fell from her, and soften'd the stones.\"\nWhere you expect to see your own face reflected in the water, you see a sundial, the shadow of its blade moving from number to number, round and round, day after dismal day shut into your apartment alone; safe they call it, safe, is it? Endless dessicated days become practice for year after lonely year, assuredly ahead, since it is certain no one will ever love you again.\n\nThe mockingbird begins to fly around and around your head, shrieking and cackling in crazed abandon: \"You gut-griping, fen-sucked, elf-skinned, weather-bitten, rude-growing, moldwarp! You pottle-deep, tickle-brained, unchin-snouted, clay-brained, rude-growing, boar-pig! You boil-brained, rump-fed, beetle-headed, ill-nurtured, shard-borne, ratsbane!\"\n\nYou sit up, wiping away tears and snot with the back of your hand, and scream at the bird, \"I'm heart-broken goddamn it, and I'm lonely and I'm doing the fucking best I can! Why do you have to be so mean?\"\n\nPress any key to continue.\nThe mockingbird is silent. It returns to its perch on the willow branch, and waits for you to catch your breath.\n\nAlone she was,\nand did communicate to herself\nher own words to her own ears.\n\n\"Don't you see, my little love,\" it says kindly. \"There has never been anyone in this shady grove but you.\"\n\nYou are alone beside the shadowed pond. The pond is in the middle of some marshy grass in a little copse of trees near your house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pond", "response": "Thou seest we are not all alone unhappy.\nThis wide and universal theatre presents\nmore woeful pageants than the scene wherein we play.\n\nYou lean over the edge of the boulder and see a face in the pond, puffy and streaked from crying. You stop yourself from calling it ugly, your heart feeling unexpected tenderness for this sad and weary face. Thou seest we are not all alone unhappy. Yes, your\nheartbreak is an insignificant tragedy in an unjust world; but no need to pass judgment on yourself there either. What is needful is just to make it through.\n\nYou stand up and brush dirt and sand and petals off your slept-in clothes. Maybe there's a way to help someone. Maybe there will be love, on the other side. Across the pond, you see the path that will take you home.\n\nPress any key....", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "fantasy", "female protagonist", "incomplete", "IntroComp 2008", "nonhuman protagonist", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Welcome to Phoenix's Landing!\n\n\n\nWith rare exception, you can enter commands whenever you see a >. (The most notable exception is if you are having a conversation, in which case you will have to finish your conversation first. You will know that you are in a conversation if the game has supplied you with a numbered list of potential conversation responses.)\n\nHere are some useful commands....\n\nHELP will show you this message.\n\nLOOK (or L) will show what is around you.\nEXAMINE <object> (or X <object>) will take a closer look at a specific object.\nINVENTORY (or I) will show you what you are carrying.\n\nWhen you want to manipulate an item, try commands like GET <object>, DROP <object>, WEAR <object>, REMOVE <object>, and PUT <object> IN/ON another object.\n\nWhen you want to talk to someone, you can TALK TO <person>. Sometimes, other people will talk to you of their own accord. When you are conversing with someone, you will be presented with a list of numbered options. Type in the number you want on each turn in order to continue through the conversation.\n\nWhen you want to move from place to place, try commands like EAST, WEST, NORTH, and SOUTH, or RETREAT (which will take you back in whichever direction you just came from). You can also SIT, STAND, KNEEL, and LIE to assume different positions. It is more comfortable to SIT ON CHAIR than to sit on the ground, though you can only do this if there is a chair nearby.\n\nOccasionally, it is useful to take a moment and THINK ABOUT something, such as one of the gods, one of the races, or someone that you have met.\n\nIf you don't want to do anything at all, you can WAIT and see what happens next.\n\nImportant commands also include QUIT, SAVE, RESTORE, and RESTART. They do exactly what they sound like.\n\nThese are the most important commands, but they are not the only commands implemented in the game. When in doubt, experiment! You may be surprised by what you can do.\n\nHave fun, and good luck!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "When this story began, it began this way....\n\nIn a place that was no place at all, three presences gathered. One was dead, one would never die, and one existed somewhere in between.\n\nThe Undying commanded the ghost, *Speak, as you spoke to me.*\n\nThe ghost, a translucent, haggard man, showed fear in every quiver of his insubstantial being, yet he spoke before the Presences. \"My lords, when I was born, a geas and star were cast upon my path. There was a deed that I was fated to do, yet I was torn from life before it could be completed. This was not in the stars, and it was not in my fate, yet it came to be. I have been wronged.\"\n\n*You have been wronged.* It was the Other, and each word twisted the shape of the ghost's existence. *Yet past is past, and done is done. You cannot return to life. You must go on.*\n\n*Yet who could alter what I set into motion?* The Undying's words were stern, and, like the Other's words, they beat upon the ghost and caused the ghost to vibrate like a bell. *There are few who could change this soul's path, and only one who would. There must be an answer for this.*\n\n*We will answer between ourselves, then,* said the Other. *It is nothing to this ghost. I will send him on his way.*\n\n*No,* said the Undying.\n\nThere was a pause.\n\n*no?* said the Other, and, with that soft syllable, a cold wind raced over every leaf in some faraway forest.\n\n*No,* said the Undying. *For he accepted his path and his fate, and, in accepting, he gave all that he was. Mortal though he is, he lost all, and he has earned protection. In the name of the King, I claim his redemption.*\n\n*What is dead is dead, and dead shall not breathe,* the Other said indifferently. *He is lost, and he rots beneath the stones.*\n\n*But I will mark his path again,* said the Undying. *And I will set another upon that path, and I will send this ghost to watch over his successor. If his successor accepts the path as deeply and fully as he, then that one will reap where this one has sowed. And I call upon you to witness and to obey.*\n\nThere was a silence like the silence before a storm, when the very sky draws breath, but there was no sky in this place that was not a place.\n\n*Set your star upon his successor, but leave your geas upon this ghost,* the Other said. *What you have done shall not be undone, but I, too, have my rights. I, too, am among the stars, though I stretch beyond them as well.*\n\n*You are among the stars,* said the Undying. *I accept your obedience, and I accept your claim.*\n\nThe Other considered. *Then this path is mine, as well, to shape. A little.*\n\n*A little,* the Undying acceded.\n\nThe Other turned its attention to the ghost. *We will choose, you and I, until the clay of your successor's being is created. This, I will choose first: your successor's gender. She will be she, as you have been he, thus creating balance. Balance,* the Other added to the Undying, not unsardonically, *is of the essence.*\n\n*So let it be,* the Undying replied blandly. Then, to the ghost: *It is your choice, now.*\n\nAnd in the place that was no place, a concept came, and another, until nine concepts were arrayed before the ghost. The ghost perceived these nine:\n\na spiderweb - the concept of Agility\na dandelion - the concept of Endurance\na book - the concept of Brilliance\na mask - the concept of Cunning\na candle - the concept of Awareness\na crown - the concept of Presence\na rose - the concept of Guile\na jewel - the concept of Serenity\n\n*Choose,* said the Undying, *and what you choose will be born in your successor.*\n\nThere was no up, no down, no north, no south, no dawn, and no dusk. This was a place that is no place at all. The passing of time itself was all but meaningless -- yet there was meaning in the passage of time; not much, but enough that three presences gathered here meaningfully, and enough that they could converse.\n\nThe ghost perceived a sword, a spiderweb, a dandelion, a book, a mask, a candle, a crown, a rose, and a jewel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You choose the book", "response": "The ghost hesitated for a long moment before reaching out to choose the book.\n\nThe Other said, *Brilliance. As you will. In return, I choose Awareness.*\n\nTo the ghost, the Undying said, *Your successor will have Brilliance. She will think methodically but clearly, and she will see through those who would confuse her mind with Cunning. But one who is Aware will endure against her and see the end of her road before she can reach it.*\n\nThe book, mask, and candle faded from the ghost's perception. The sword, the spiderweb, the dandelion, the crown, the rose, and the jewel remained.\n\n*Choose again,* said the Undying, *and what you choose will be born in your successor.*", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You choose the rose", "response": "The ghost hesitated for a long moment before reaching out to choose the rose.\n\nThe Other said, *Guile shall be hers. In return, I choose Presence.*\n\nTo the ghost, the Undying said, *Your successor will have Guile. She will be subtle and strong in persuasion, and those with Serenity will yield before her, convinced her aims are their own. But one with Presence will entrance her to follow a new banner and forget her own will.*\n\nThe rose, crown, and jewel faded from the ghost's perception. The sword, the spiderweb, and the dandelion remained.\n\n*Choose again,* said the Undying, *and what you choose will be born in your successor.*", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You choose the dandelion", "response": "The ghost hesitated for a long moment before reaching out to choose the dandelion.\n\nThe Other said, *Endurance. So be it. In return, I choose Agility.\n\nTo the ghost, the Undying said, *Your successor will have Endurance. She will have stamina and resilence, and she will endure every blow heaped upon her by one with Power. But one with Agility will find her secret weaknesses, and her body will fail first.*\n\nThe sword, spiderweb, and dandelion faded from the ghost's perception. *We have determined her heart and her mind and the strengths of her body,* said the Undying. *Now we shall determine the shape of this body.* And it seemed to the ghost, then, that five pieces of wood appeared before him, each different in hue: birch, ash, maple, rosewood, and ebony.\n\n*Choose,* the Undying said to the ghost, *and all will see your choice upon her skin.*", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the maple", "response": "The maple wood is golden and burnished to a rich shine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You choose the maple", "response": "The ghost hesitated for a long moment before reaching out to choose the piece of maple.\n\nThe other four woods faded away, leaving only the piece of maple. Upon the piece of maple, the ghost perceived an indistinct, eyeless face.\n\nThe Undying gestured again, and now seven small gems materialized: a ruby, a topaz, an emerald, a sapphire, an amethyst, a tiger eye agate, and a small dark diamond.\n\n*Choose,* the Undying said to the ghost, *and all will see your choice in her gaze.*", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the amethyst", "response": "Purple, faceted, and sparkling, the amethyst attracts the eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sapphire", "response": "Light and dark blue coruscate through the center of the gem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the diamond", "response": "Dark rainbows decorate the depths of the black jewel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the emerald", "response": "A grass green star hovers just off the surface of the emerald.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask undying about the gems", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the topaz", "response": "Sharp yellow light glints through the topaz's depths.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You choose the ruby", "response": "The ghost hesitated for a long moment before reaching out to choose the ruby.\n\nThe other six gems faded away, leaving only the ruby. It wavered and twinned, and then the pieces of ruby fused with the face of tan wood, shining softly in the place that was not a place. Yet the face was incomplete, and the Other contemplated it.\n\n*I choose... this,* said the Other.\n\nAnd with the Other's words, a change came over the face, which became covered in downy fur. The nose and mouth elongated into a snout, and small fangs appeared beneath the lips. The face lost its indistinctness to become that of a chirop -- one of the spindly children of the mountains. Her fur was as tan as a piece of polished maple, and her eyes were as crimson as two crimson rubies, with the light of intelligence shining in their depths. Her expression was secretive, and she looked healthy and well-fed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "*It is done,* said the Undying. *There will come a day when my star marks her sky, and when that time comes, it will be the time of your geas once more. Then you will be free to guide her, and if she walks upon the true path, then she will gain all that you should have gained.*\n\n*Or lose,* said the Other, *all that you should have lost --* And for a moment, the words that shook the ghost's very substance carried something like sorrow and something like pain, made brighter by the light of life so near, the touch of death so far.\n\n*But for now,* said the Undying, in a way that could not be denied, *you will wait --*\n\nAnd, bound by the power of a word and a star, the ghost slept, and the world changed in many ways before he wakened.\n\nPhoenix's Landing: Destiny\n\nMuch later, and in a place that was far more real, a young chirop ventured from home with her tradefather for the very first time. She knew nothing of stars, geasa, ghosts, Presences, or anything else except that she was very proud to be along on this trip.\n\nUnfortunately, while she knew nothing of the stars, they knew something of her....\n\nIt's the first time that you've been allowed to travel on a trading mission. All your life has been secluded within the confines of a mountain cavern-town far to the west, but this year, your creche-fathers agreed that you should accompany your tradefather instead of the assistant that your tradefather normally hires for the journey.\n\nAfter weeks of travel (first down the rocky slopes and through rambling hills, and then through the twisting, shadowy forests) you get your first real look at the city of Phoenix's Landing. Above the tall stone walls, you can see the tops of the buildings. Two towers at the center rise highest of all, and, from your tradefather's stories over the years, you recognize them immediately as the temple to Ivrul and the governance hall. Golden fields border the city to the west and south, with a few small buildings clumped here and there. The dark face of Char Cliff rises above it to the north, marking the base of First Mountain.\n\nWhen you raise your eyes to First Mountain, the city seems no larger than a child's city built from shards of fallen stone. The city nestles beneath the cliff as a pup to its mother, yet it is larger than any city you have ever seen. You have no plans to visit the chiroptera here, but you know that other creche-clans dwell in the range beyond Char Cliff, and the thought is oddly comforting.\n\nBut -- the city! You can see it more clearly, now, and excitement bubbles up within you.\n\nTo journey through the shadowy forests, you joined a caravan, and now the mounted guardsmen scatter forward and back, tending to their various claims since the forest's dangers are receding away. The boredom of the past week fades as you bounce slightly on the seat of your wagon and strain to see more.\n\nEach wagon has to pause for inspection at the guard house on the near side of the bridge.\n\nYou are far enough back in the line of wagons to grow deeply impatient as you wait for your opportunity to enter the city. Once the wagon has been inspected, it clatters over the broad, flat bridge and passes through the gates into the milling city beyond. You catch only a few brief glimpses of the buildings beyond.\n\nThen it is your turn. Your wagon rolls forward over the rutted road and halts. \"Inspection,\" the shaghal guard growls. \"All parties present themselves.\"\n\nAt your father's signal, you hop down from the wagon.\n\nMost of the other wagons have already passed over the bridge, but a few wait patiently behind yours. Before you, a broad, sturdy bridge stretches over a wide and rather dubious-looking river. Beyond the bridge, the gate of Phoenix's Landing gapes open to receive you.\n\nFather is here with you, which is rather a relief. The city looks awfully large this close up.\n\nThe large shaghal guard stands here inspecting wagons and merchants before he approves them to enter the city.\n\nFather says quietly, \"Achatli, this should only take a moment, but please be on your best behavior.\"\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "A faint swirl of grease drifts over the surface of the murky grey water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bridge", "response": "The bridge is almost as dusty as the road.\n\nThe guard approaches Father, identifies himself as Greshen, and demands both of your names, which your father supplies. Greshen nods slightly in reply.\n(You memorize Greshen's name for future reference.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Father", "response": "You take a moment to study your clan's tradefather -- the one who interacts with other races and visits cities beyond the chirop mountains of your home. He is your true father as well, but this is much less important than his position in the creche-clan, and you tend to forget about it from time to time. Despite this, you have always been pleased by your resemblance to one another -- you share his tan fur and crimson eyes. Someday, he will retire. Because you are female, you could never hold the title of tradefather in a creche-clan, but you can hope for enough training that you can spend your life traveling and bartering. Maybe you will even serve the creche-clan in your tradefather's stead for a time. It is a slim hope, but a hope.\n\nGreshen inspects the contents of your father's wagon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops greshen", "response": "Shaghal are the furred people of the plains and valleys. They typically have brown or black fur and brown, black, amber, green, or dark blue eyes, although the occasional specimen displays an unsettling crimson hue. Shaghal have two arms, two legs, and walk upright, as all people do, but their faces are distinctly canine, with short muzzles, black noses, and white, sharp teeth, rather like jackals or wolves.\nThe resemblance is enhanced by triangular ears set high atop the skull and a plumed tail. For all of that, their hands are five-fingered and dextrous, and you know better than to underestimate their intelligence.\n\nThis particular shaghal has mahogany brown fur and dark amber eyes. He carries a short, heavy staff wrapped in leather in one hand, and he also bears a curved axe at his hip. He displays the scarlet and silver crest of Phoenix's Landing on his shoulder.\n\nGreshen seems to be taking an awfully long time with his inspection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Father", "response": "His attention is on Greshen and he doesn't want to be disturbed.\n\nGreshen finishes his inspection and turns to your father. \"Everything seems to be in order here,\" he says.\n\n\"I'm glad to hear it,\" Father replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crest", "response": "The crest of Phoenix's Landing is a flame-wreathed scarlet bird silhouetted on a bright silver mountain, all set on a field of black. The crest appears on the shoulder of this jerkin.\n\nFor the first time, Greshen's amber gaze slides over your face as he looks away from Father. One of his ears twitches, and he looks surprised. Instead of saying anything, though, he rummages in his vest for a piece of paper. After scrutinizing the paper for a long moment, he stares intently into your eyes, and then he shakes his head.\n\"You'll have to wait here for a moment,\" he says, and signals to a human guard standing closer to the gate. The human guard nods briefly and goes into the city with a purposeful air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about Greshen", "response": "Greshen is a shaghal guard in Phoenix's Landing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about Father", "response": "The other races are unfortunate to have only one father apiece. Like any other chirop born to a healthy creche-clan, you have five fathers, all well beloved: your lorefather, your lawfather, your lifefather, your hearthfather, and your tradefather. Yet you are more like your tradefather than any other of your fathers, and you know he is your blood-father as well. You have a special closeness to him, and it is a deep privilege to go on this journey with him. Your tradefather's role as a father is to teach you and your siblings about how to interact with the other races, and his duty as a member of the clan is to trade so that the clan will prosper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Greshen about the paper", "response": "Father might be annoyed if you did that.\n\nA graceful chirop priest strides through the gate. He glances about briefly before Greshen beckons him over.\n\n\"Eyes of Justice,\" Greshen says respectfully. \"There was a missive that came out, and I think....\" Instead of finishing the sentence, he shows the slightly crumpled piece of paper to the young priest.\n\nThe priest peruses the paper and then looks down at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the humans", "response": "Humans are the populous people of the oceans. They have two arms, two legs, and walk upright, as all people do. Their skin is normally light or dark brown, though there are paler or darker exceptions, and they have eyes in a wide variety of colors. Although both genders grow hair from the tops of their heads, human men can be readily distinguished from human women because the women do not grow fur on their faces. Although they appear weak and unprotected, they are surprisingly versatile and thrive in a variety of enviroments.\n\n\"A greeting to you, in virtue and honor,\" the priest says. \"I understand your name is Achatli. Is this your first time in the city of Phoenix's Landing?\"\n\n[1] \"It is true. I have never been here before.\"\n[2] \"Of course not. I am well familiar with the city.\"\n[3] \"What's your name?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "\"I do have the advantage of you, and I can see that you feel that's unfair,\" the priest says. \"As you will. I am Hachachi of the Stars. And now you will answer my question, perhaps?\"\n\n(You memorize Hachachi's name for future reference.)\n[1] \"It is true. I have never been here before.\"\n[2] \"Of course not. I am well familiar with the city.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Hachachi nods. \"I hope you like it here. Before I can permit you into the city, though, my superior -- High Caerwyn of the Stars -- requests to meet with you. I trust you have no objection?\"\n\n[1] \"It would be my pleasure.\"\n[2] \"That seems all right....\"\n[3] \"Is there another way?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Hachachi frowns slightly. Turning to your father, he explains, \"It is merely a precaution, but there is an omen about a girl with the markings and hue of this child, and we expect the one we seek before the moon's cycle ends. I wouldn't worry,\" he adds, \"but it really is important that High Caerwyn inspects her.\"\n\nFather hesitates for a long moment. Greshen tenses slightly in response to Father's tension, and for a moment, you fear something horrible will happen, but then Father says, \"All right. I'll be with her, of course.\"\n\nHachachi nods. Turning to Greshen, Hachachi says, \"Please take this wagon to the side and ensure that it remains safe. We should return within the hour, but there's no need to block traffic.\"\n\nLeaving the wagon behind, you cross the broad bridge and enter the vast city from its western gate. \"This is West Flame Gate,\" Hachachi says conversationally, \"and people call this neighborhood the Silver District. You'll bring your wagon through this way later this evening. Over there is the Full Cup, a very good inn -- I recommend the ale highly.\"\n\nHe continues to converse as you move through the city, but the sound flows around you like the mountain wind -- present, but disregarded. You pay more attention to the various wagons in the market square you pass, to the way passersby part for the young priest, to the low buildings on all sides, and to the people -- so many people! You have never seen so many people in all your life, let alone all in one place. From your father's past stories, you know that this was once a chirop town, but that many humans and shaghal moved here as the city grew in prominence, and now it is a notable center of trade.\n\nIn your heart, you had somehow pictured a town like your home, but the buildings surrounding you are very different from the caves where you grew up. You did not know there were so many chirop clans in all the world, and here, those clanmembers mingle with an equal number of humans and scattered groups of shaghal. You are comforted by the presence of your father.\n\nLooking forward, you see a bridge at the end of the street, and, beyond that bridge, you see a white spire that can only be the governance hall. The governance hall and the temple of Ivrul are placed upon an island at the center of the city, and now, you are close enough to glimpse sunlight sparkling off the surrounding waters.\n\nA wide-shouldered human woman stands to the left of the bridge's base. Like the shaghal guard at the gate, she bears the scarlet and silver crest of Phoenix's Landing on one shoulder, though she carries a spear instead of an axe. Hachachi nods a greeting to the human guard, who nods briefly in return and gestures you across the bridge.\n\nThere are tiled paths here rather than cobbled streets, and Hachachi turns left along one of those paths, guiding you past the governance building and toward four buildings standing in a cluster. The tallest of these by far is the silver spire that you saw before, which you recognized as the spire of Ivrul of the Mists. That, however, is not your destination. Instead, the priest escorts you to a stately building of grey marble, and you walk beneath an archway marked with a silver star. This is the temple of Ferran of the Stars.\n\nBeyond the archway is a courtyard, and you pass through the courtyard, through the doors, and down a short hall before entering a silver-walled chamber. The most noteable feature of the room is a stunning blue tapestry depicting a heron among reeds. A human woman garbed in black leather is seated to one side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bow to the woman", "response": "With your father at your side, you enter. Behind you, Hachachi says respectfully, \"High Caerwyn, I present Achatli for your examination.\" (You memorize High Caerwyn's name for future reference.)\nHigh Caerwyn nods. \"Thank you, Hachachi. I will summon you when it is time.\"\nHachachi steps back into the hall and closes the door gently behind him.\n\nThe chamber is dominated by a wide tapestry hanging opposite the door. In shades of blue, black, silver, and gold, it depicts a magnificent heron standing among reeds and gazing skyward toward a night filled with stars. The walls are panelled in dark wood with a subtle silver shimmer. A massive black cabinet stands to one side, and a matching table has been positioned among four chairs at the center of the room.\n\nHigh Caerwyn is sitting on the tall chair positioned in front of the tapestry.\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the names", "response": "Your thoughts circle without profit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Achatli", "response": "There is no reflective surface nearby in which you can get a proper look at yourself. However, despite your best efforts to remain tidy, your fur is dusty from the road, and you are not completely comfortable with your current appearance. You would definitely welcome the opportunity to tidy up.\n\nFather has promised that opportunity once you are safely inside the city, which is another reason to hope for speed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Caerwyn", "response": "Humans are the populous people of the oceans. They have two arms, two legs, and walk upright, as all people do. Their skin is normally light or dark brown, though there are paler or darker exceptions, and they have eyes in a wide variety of colors. Although both genders grow hair from the tops of their heads, human men can be readily distinguished from human women because the women do not grow fur on their faces. Although they appear weak and unprotected, they are surprisingly versatile and thrive in a variety of enviroments.\n\nHigh Caerwyn is garbed in a fitted, coal black leather vest over an equally dark cloth shirt. Her ankle-length skirt is similarly made of fine leather, and it has been split up each side to allow for maximum freedom of motion. A tear-shaped medallion hangs upon her brow from a fine silver chain, and several necklaces ornamented with various sigils encircle her throat. The overall effect is ornate and militant at the same time, and not at all what you expected, though you have rarely encountered worshippers of Ferran of the Stars.\n\n\"Achatli, be welcome,\" High Caerwyn greets you. \"I am Caerwyn, the High Priestess of Ferran of the Stars. Tell me, what do you know about the Divine Judge?\"\n\n[1] Tell Caerwyn in detail what the chiroptera teach about Ferran.\n[2] Claim to know nothing about Ferran.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"The easiest way to show you is to do it,\" High Caerwyn says. From a concealed pocket in her skirt, she takes a polished wooden case no larger than her palm. When she opens the case, she reveals a set of onyx stones, each carved with a rune, and a folded square of blue silk. She spreads the silk across the chair at her side. \"I will need a strand of your hair,\" High Caerwyn says. You draw your fingers through your hair, coming away with a single strand, and pass it to her. She loops the strand of hair end-to-end, forming a circle upon the silk.\n\nHigh Caerwyn closes the case and rattles it for a moment before opening it. As she pours the stones across the silk, sudden silvery-blue light radiates up from the silk, and the strand of hair vanishes. The nine stones roll to rest in a four-pointed star -- one at the center, two on each arm. Only the center stone faces upright, and that one bears the same stylized star as you saw above the archway.\n\n\"What does that mean?\" Father asks, though the tone of voice suggests that he has his suspicions already.\n\nThe high priestess sits very still for a moment before picking up the case and putting away her set of stones. \"This is inconclusive, but I would like to talk with your daughter alone for a moment.\" Father opens his mouth to protest, but she cuts him off in a clear, sharp voice. \"We will be here, and you will be right outside the door. I assure you, there is nothing to fear.\"\n\n\"Unacceptable,\" Father says coldly. \"We will discuss what must be discussed, you and I, and you will involve my daughter further only with my consent.\"\n\n\"She is nearly to her age of majority ,\" High Caerwyn states. \"She has the right to hear about such things herself. If she is geased -- and she does seem to be -- then she must know what will come of it.\"\n\n\"And if I refuse?\" your father demands. There is a long pause as Father and High Caerwyn stare at one another, his crimson eyes locked to her dark blue eyes.\n\nThe priestess of Ferran looks away first. \"Then it could be her life,\" she says simply.\n\nYour father presses the advantage. \"If it is her life, then what you know must be shared with me fully before you speak to her further. She is bright and special and tireless, and she is honored for her learning by every one of her fathers. I will permit nothing to harm her.\"\n\nThis last, you recognize as trade manners; it would not do for this priestess to think you are of low value to your creche-clan, lest she believe that you -- and Father -- could vanish without your family's notice. Still, you warm beneath his praise.\n\nHigh Caerwyn nods. \"Very well.\" She rises from her chair, goes to the door, and summons the graceful chirop priest. \"Escort Achatli to the Cat Chamber, please, and remain until her father comes or until I join you.\"\n\nThe priest bows gracefully to Caerwyn, half-spreading his arms to expose his patagium as he does, and then backs out of the room. At your father's nod, you follow the priest.\n\nThe Cat Chamber turns out to be a short way down the corridor to the left. Hachachi follows you in and closes the door.\n\nThis chamber is nearly identical to the previous room, including the dark walls and precisely positioned black furniture. The primary difference is in the tapestry, which depicts a spotted cat instead of a heron, and which has been executed with accents of gold, yellow, and green upon black instead of blue and silver upon black.\n\nHachachi is standing nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Hachachi", "response": "He is chirop, just like you -- one of the lithe, lightly furred people of the mountains. Your father has told you of other chiroptera here, and it is a comfort to see one now. Like you or your father, this chirop has a membrane called the patagium that stretches from hip to wrist, connecting his arms to his body in the fashion of a bat's wings. His face is small and fuzzy, and you know that fangs are hidden within the small snout.\n\nThis particular chirop is light tan in hue, with piercing black eyes. Several braids have been woven into the crest of longer hair that runs back from his brow. He wears a two-tone tunic in light and dark grey, and the tunic has been split neatly down the sides so that his patagium is not hampered -- a fairly traditional style of garb, which you and your family also favor, though the stylized star embroidered on his collar is not traditional. He is young, yet carries himself with an air of authority.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the patagium", "response": "Your thoughts circle without profit.\n\n\"Would you like to sit down?\" Hachachi gestures to the ring of four chairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "Did you mean to sit on the floor? (There's a black chair positioned facing the tapestry right there....)\n[Please respond with YES or NO.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "You seat yourself in one of the black chairs. Hachachi nods his approval.\n\nThe priest draws a small key from a hidden pocket and opens the black cabinet. At this angle, you can't really see anything of the contents of the cabinet, but when Hachachi turns back toward you, he is holding a small, opaque bottle and a pair of porcelain cups.\n\n\"Are you familiar with desert appleshy?\" he inquires.\n\n[1] \"Desert appleshy? I don't think so....\"\n[2] Remain silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"It is made by the jinn,\" Hachachi says as he uncorks the bottle and pours carefully. The liquid that swirls into the cups is pale gold, but tinged with faint iridescence. \"The name is more fantastic than the flavor, I fear, but it has the virtue of lasting long and well in darkness -- so we keep a bottle in each room to quench thirst at appropriate times.\"\n\nKeeping one cup for himself, he sets the other on the table and then takes a moment to put the bottle away.\n\nHachachi sits down on the black chair positioned to the right of the tapestry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "Yes, Colossal Caves is awesome. Now stay focused.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Cat Chamber (on the black chair positioned facing the tapestry)\nThe chamber is dominated by a wide tapestry hanging opposite the door. In shades of gold, yellow, green, silver, and black, it depicts a magnificent spotted cat lounging upon a tree branch and gazing skyward toward a night filled with stars. The walls are panelled in dark wood with a subtle silver shimmer. A massive black cabinet stands to one side, and a matching table of smaller size has been positioned among four chairs at the center of the room.\n\nHachachi is sitting on the black chair positioned to the right of the tapestry.\nOn the small black table is a small porcelain cup of desert appleshy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour Cup out", "response": "(the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy out)\nYou don't see anywhere appropriate to pour out the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy.\n\nHachachi tilts his cup to his lips for a moment before lowering it again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell cup", "response": "(the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy)\nYou smell nothing unexpected.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tapestry", "response": "A border of ornate black knotwork outlined delicately in gold runs along the edge of the tapestry. At the center of the image, shadowy green leaves part to reveal a magnificent spotted cat lounging on a tree branch. The yellow-gold cat all but glows against the blackness of the night sky. Above the cat, fourteen bright yellow stars connected by thin golden lines pick out a constellation against the night sky, and the constellation is a second cat.\n\nHachachi pauses to smell the aroma in his cup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the tapestry", "response": "You fail to move the wide tapestry.\n\nHachachi gazes into his cup for a moment and swirls the liquid reflectively.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Cat Chamber (on the black chair positioned facing the tapestry)\nThe chamber is dominated by a wide tapestry hanging opposite the door. In shades of gold, yellow, green, silver, and black, it depicts a magnificent spotted cat lounging upon a tree branch and gazing skyward toward a night filled with stars. The walls are panelled in dark wood with a subtle silver shimmer. A massive black cabinet stands to one side, and a matching table of smaller size has been positioned among four chairs at the center of the room.\n\nHachachi is sitting on the black chair positioned to the right of the tapestry.\nOn the small black table is a small porcelain cup of desert appleshy.\n\nHachachi pauses to smell the aroma in his cup.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink cup", "response": "(the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy)\n(first picking up the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy)\nTaken.\n\nYou take a sip from the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy. A flavor like honeyed apples and grapes and spring water fills your mouth.\n\nHow can a drink be diluted and strengthened at the same time? In flavor, this is rather like watered apple juice sweetened with honey, but the power of the drink still dizzies you briefly. Everything shimmers in your vision a second after you swallow, but then your sight returns to normal.\n\nThe subtle scent of apples and honey wafts from the cup in your hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "(the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy)\nYou take a sip from the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy. A flavor like honeyed apples and grapes and spring water fills your mouth.\n\nHachachi settles back in his chair. \"Now, we shall be civilized,\" he invites. \"Please, you must be curious about my city. If you wish to ask questions, I will be happy to answer them -- but first, what did you think?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Hachachi about Cup", "response": "[Use TALK TO to interact with characters.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Hachachi", "response": "[1] \"I'm very impressed by the appleshy.\"\n[2] \"The appleshy isn't really to my taste.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"Oh? Well, that's a disappointment,\" Hachachi says. \"I'm very fond of it myself, and I hoped you would be.\"\n\n[1] \"Tell me more about Ferran?\"\n[2] \"Tell me about Caerwyn?\"\n[3] \"Tell me about yourself?\"\n[4] \"Tell me about the city?\"\n[5] \"Tell me about geasa?\"\n[6] Say nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "In response to your question, the chirop priest hesitates. \"I'm not sure what there is to tell,\" he says. \"I assist High Caerwyn, but not at services -- I assist her with the day-to-day of scheduling and planning and organizing. Really, I'm rather boring.\"\n\nYou are certain that, under the cover of fiddling with his cup, Hachachi is watching to see how you react.\n\n[1] \"Tell me more about Ferran?\"\n[2] \"Tell me about Caerwyn?\"\n[3] \"Tell me about your family.\"\n[4] \"Why did you join the priesthood?\"\n[5] \"Tell me about the city?\"\n[6] \"Tell me about geasa?\"\n[7] Say nothing.\n\nHachachi gazes into his cup for a moment and swirls the liquid reflectively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"High Caerwyn is devoted, yet caring,\" Hachachi answers. \"I think nothing concerns her so much as the lives that we lose -- for each time one man kills another, it is a failure of the Temple.\" He studies you for a moment, clearly judging his words carefully. \"We must study virtue, and we must teach its path, or we will all be lost in a darkness without stars. No one believes this more than she does. If High Caerwyn were not bound by duty, her deeds would be great -- but she is bound by duty, the highest calling there is, and so her light is seen only in the deeds of those she guides.\"\n\n[1] \"Tell me more about Ferran?\"\n[2] \"Tell me about your family.\"\n[3] \"Why did you join the priesthood?\"\n[4] \"Tell me about the city?\"\n[5] \"Tell me about geasa?\"\n[6] Say nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "\"Though I see why you would ask, I cannot speak further with you about geasa,\" Hachachi says apologetically. \"However, High Caerwyn will tell you all that you must know -- just as soon as your father consents.\"\n\n[1] \"Tell me more about Ferran?\"\n[2] \"Tell me about your family.\"\n[3] \"Why did you join the priesthood?\"\n[4] \"Tell me about the city?\"\n[5] Say nothing.\n\nHachachi says something, but you can't understand what he says -- the syllables are blurred and strange to your ear.\nThe words you were about to speak fly away.\n[1] \"What did you say?\"\n[2] \"I feel strange....\"\n[3] Say nothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"Is it the incense? It's a bit strong in the hallways....\" Hachachi gazes at you in clear concern.\n\n[1] \"What did you say?\"\n[2] \"Help me -- something's wrong!\"\n[3] Say nothing.\n\nThe subtle scent of apples and honey wafts from the cup in your hand.\n\nLight sparkles suddenly in the corner of your vision, but when you turn your head, it is gone. A wave of dizziness washes over you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill Hachachi", "response": "[Before you can try attacking Hachachi, you will need to complete this conversation. Please enter a number or type REPEAT to reacquaint yourself with your options.]\n\nHachachi tilts his cup to his lips for a moment before lowering it again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Hachachi says something in reply, but you can't understand what he says. But he doesn't get up to help you -- even though the edges of the room have started spinning....\n\n[1] \"What did you say?\"\n[2] Say nothing.\n\nHachachi pauses to smell the aroma in his cup.\n\nYour grip suddenly loosens on the small porcelain cup of desert appleshy. Though you reach out with your other hand to catch the cup as it slides from your numb fingers, the air is thick around your hand, slowing your motion. A few flying drops of desert appleshy spatter your hand before the cup strikes the ground. Spilled desert appleshy flows across the floor. Reaching after the cup, you lose your balance, and the entire world slips sideways.\n\nYou stumble first to your knees and then catch yourself on your hands. You try to stop your fall, but the best you can do is hit the floor first with your shoulder instead of your face. Fortunately, the jarring pain that follows is also far away.\n\nHachachi is crouching beside you. You see his mouth moving, but you can't hear what he says. You feel it, though, when he raises your head, slides his knee under you for support, and opens your lips with a clinical finger so that he can pour more desert appleshy down your throat. Your faintly moaned protest chokes off beneath the draught, and you swallow against your will. Everything is spinning faster and faster, and you are pressed down from the force of it. Your tongue tastes of apples.\n\nAlthough your eyes are still open, your vision starts to fade. There is a roaring in your head that is growing louder, and louder....", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The thunder resolves into the pounding roar of a seething mass of chiroptera. The myriad voices, the screaming, the shouting, all blends together and echoes through your very bones.\n\nYou are standing upon a high dais, and on all sides, thousands of chiroptera stare up at you -- the source of the incredible tumult. You had not conceived of so many people in all the world, let alone so many of your kin in the same place, and their frenzied behavior is alien to your secluded existence. Your very heartbeat and breathing feel dictated by the hunger of the crowd. You are garbed formally in a side-split tunic of dense, gem-adorned brocade and a long skirt, but you are much less concerned about your attire than you are concerned by the long, heavy sword gripped in your hand.\n\nA chirop woman kneels before you. Her tan fur is sparse from great age, and her hands are bound tightly behind her back with coarse rope. Her shoulders twitch in a shiver as the cries of the crowd pound over you both.\n\nThough the sound of the crowd all but deafens you, a woman's clarion voice rises above the din of the crowd. \"She is condemned. Strike!\"\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You run", "response": "You'll have to say which compass direction to go in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You step to the edge of the dais. Thousands of eyes bore into you as you start down the steps, and the tone of the crowd's layered cries becomes suddenly, sharply hostile. A heavy wave of disorientation follows. This isn't you -- this isn't your place or where you belong....\n\nAnd, winging after that thought, you realize that it is nighttime. The roar of the crowd fails into silence, defeated by the sudden blackness and the tide of stars that flow across the night sky. The taste of apples fills your mouth, and stars flash across your gaze as everything spins away from you.\n\nThis, in the darkness:\n\nThere is a voice. The voice is sharp, clear, female, and only newly familiar: Caerwyn's voice, asking, \"What did you give her?\"\n\nA second voice comes from the darkness. This one is low, softer, male, and as little-known to you as the first. Hachachi answers, \"Heartkenning in dreamwine.\"\n\nCaerwyn: \"You mistook her, perhaps, for a trained diviner? You risk too much.\"\n\nHachachi: \"It had to be risked.\"\n\nCaerwyn: \"'Use your initiative' didn't mean kill the girl. She's hardly breathing.\"\n\nHachachi: \"There weren't many options and there wasn't much time.\"\n\nCaerwyn: \"There was more time before you tried to kill her.\"\n\nHachachi: \"High One, if I was wrong, please forgive me. I measured the dreamwine carefully -- six swallows, no more. Her geas...\"\n\nBut the darkness is spinning, and noise comes out of the darkness -- a shivering, rushing noise, something more familiar than the voices. The noise drowns out Hachachi's voice. You struggle to identify this new sound....\n\nWater. The sound is water.\n\nYou are lying on cold stone, and you can hear a river not far away.\n\nUnderground, Crevice\nIt's hard to see much of anything here, as overhanging shelves of rock block almost all light from the north, and that light is a frail, greenish shimmer at best. The crevice is small and cramped. Once, it was a full passage, as signs of a broader tunnel do lead west, but the tunnel is blocked by fallen rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rocks", "response": "The fallen rocks prevent you from proceeding west.\n\nWhen the rocks fell, we were lucky because grubmen are stupid. Instead of coming to kill us, they went to pray to the grubqueen. It would have been easier if they hadn't left a sentry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "There is no reflective surface nearby in which you can get a proper look at yourself. However, despite your best efforts to remain tidy, your fur is dusty from the road, and you are not completely comfortable with your current appearance. You would definitely welcome the opportunity to tidy up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the light", "response": "Faint, greenish light is visible to the north.\n\nYou have to keep moving. Eventually, the grubmen will realize that the falling rocks were on THIS side, and then they'll come to investigate.\n\nFaint, greenish light is visible to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think about the grubmen", "response": "Your thoughts circle without profit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "There was no way to go back. All we could do was go forward, and hope for a new exit somewhere past the grubmen.\n\nYou stand up cautiously to avoid cracking your head on the low stone ceiling.\n\nThis underground space is dimly lit by crusts of phosphorescent lichen clinging to the cavern roof. Ragged spires of rock jut from the ground, and cool, dark shadows fill the spaces between the spires. A crevice opens to the south, and a broader passage leads off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lichen", "response": "The only light here is a dim glow emanating from the lichen clinging to the cavern ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lichen", "response": "The patch of phosphorescent lichen is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spires", "response": "Several waist-high stalagmites rise from the ground.\n\nWait -- this isn't the way it went....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Underground, Beside the River\nThe cavern opens up beside a broad underground river. Across the river, small orange fires glimmer, and contorted humanoid shapes are visible moving in the firelight. These are grubmen -- an annoying, not particularly intelligent breed of underground dweller with a tendency to steal animals from human and chirop settlements. The river flows through a black, impassable hole to the south, but there is room to walk north along the river's steep bank.\n\nA narrow, not-particularly-sturdy-seeming bridge stretches over the river to the east. Upon the bridge is another short grubman standing watch -- a rather ineffective watch, at that, since the grubman is staring toward the fires and has not yet noticed you.\n\nThe grubman standing on the bridge shifts anxiously from pudgy foot to pudgy foot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at myself", "response": "There is no reflective surface nearby in which you can get a proper look at yourself. However, despite your best efforts to remain tidy, your fur is dusty from the road, and you are not completely comfortable with your current appearance. You would definitely welcome the opportunity to tidy up.\n\nI wasn't alone. The rocks caught Achimi, but Hichaesho made it through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill grubman", "response": "(the translucent white grubman)\nYou can't reach the translucent white grubman from here.\n\nThe grubman standing on the bridge shifts anxiously from pudgy foot to pudgy foot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "Your hands are empty.\nYou are wearing a dark green goat wool cloak, a pale green tunic split up the sides, and a long, voluminous skirt of pale green wool. A slim braided leather belt encircles your waist. You have a pair of braided white leather sandals on your feet. You are also wearing a slender zircon-studded bracelet and a pair of dangling zircon earrings.\n\nThe grubman standing on the bridge shifts anxiously from pudgy foot to pudgy foot.\n\nAm I dreaming?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bracelet", "response": "You study the slender zircon-studded bracelet for a moment, but you notice nothing particularly unusual.\n\nWho ARE you, and why are you in my dream?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Underground, Grubman Bridge\nThis narrow, rickety bridge was designed for the weight of a grubman, not a chirop, and it complains softly with your every movement. There are no railings. Tinted dimly orange by the nearer grubman fires, the river plunges swiftly past below and flows away to the south.\n\nGrubman engineering is not much of a science. The bridge trembles disconcertingly underfoot. Fortunately, the grubman guarding the bridge is distracted and looking away from you.\n\nThe grubman standing on the bridge shifts anxiously from pudgy foot to pudgy foot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Against your better judgement, you approach the translucent white grubman.\n\nYou rush at the grubman, put your hands against his back, and shove! With a chittering wail, the grubman falls into the river and bobs away to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cross the Bridge", "response": "Underground, Beside the River\nThe cavern opens up beside a broad underground river. Across the river, small orange fires glimmer, and contorted humanoid shapes are visible moving in the firelight. These are grubmen -- an annoying, not particularly intelligent breed of underground dweller with a tendency to steal animals from human and chirop settlements. The river flows through a black, impassable hole to the south, but there is room to walk north along the river's steep bank.\n\nA narrow, not-particularly-sturdy-seeming bridge stretches over the river to the east. From here, you can see nothing on the bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You walk north along the bank.\n\nUnderground, Beside the River\nThe river passage narrows as it proceeds northward. Farther north, there is nowhere to stand, but here, you can view the broad subterranean river by the light of the distant fires. Twisted rock formations overhang the river, but none are within reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine River", "response": "The river is far too broad to jump, and it looks both fast and deep.\nTo the south, a crude bridge spans the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the formations", "response": "Several twisted, water-smoothed stalactites overhang the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb formations", "response": "The twisted rock formation is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This underground space is dimly lit by crusts of phosphorescent lichen clinging to the cavern roof. Ragged spires of rock jut from the ground, and cool, dark shadows fill the spaces between the spires. A crevice opens to the south, and a broader passage leads off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Underground, Grubman Bridge\nThis narrow, rickety bridge was designed for the weight of a grubman, not a chirop, and it complains softly with your every movement. There are no railings. Tinted dimly orange by the nearer grubman fires, the river plunges swiftly past below and flows away to the south.\n\nGrubman engineering is not much of a science. The bridge trembles disconcertingly underfoot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "With no further obstacle in your way, you carefully cross the bridge (which, by some minor miracle, does not break beneath your weight) and halt on the far side. The space just off the bridge is slightly shadowed, and you can pause here to gain your bearings before proceeding onward.\n\nOr perhaps not -- because suddenly, everything changes....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the space", "response": "You are in a new cave, though you are standing up this time.\nEverything around you is very faintly lit by greenish-yellow phosphorescence, which, you realize after a moment, comes from a thin crust of lichen on the walls. It's like something out of a story -- you've never seen lichen like this before.\n\nPhosphorescent lichen illumines this underground cavern with a weak, sickly light. The air is humid and unpleasant. The only route from here is north.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.\n\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A narrow stream, no more than a few handsbreadths across, trickles in from the north and flows away to the southeast. Thin crusts of phosphorescent lichen cling to the walls and ceiling, casting a weak, sickly light . The air is humid and unpleasant. Passages open north, south, southeast, southwest, and east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Phosphorescent lichen illumines the underground passage around you, but with a weak, sickly light. The air is humid and unpleasant. There are exits leading north and northeast from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Phosphorescent lichen illumines the underground passage around you, but with a weak, sickly light. The air is humid and unpleasant. There are exits leading northwest and south from here.\n\nI've seen fungus like this, but only outside. On trees, sometimes, in forests... never in caves.\n\nBut this is a dream. Anything can happen here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fungus", "response": "(first taking the thin crust of phosphorescent lichen)\nThat's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Phosphorescent lichen illumines the underground passage around you, but with a weak, sickly light. The air is humid and unpleasant. There are exits leading northeast and southeast from here.\n\nTime passes.\n\nI didn't understand that sentence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Everything smells like lichen. Still, you think the air coming from the northeast might be a bit fresher.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "A narrow stream, no more than a few handsbreadths across, trickles in from the north and flows away to the south. Thin crusts of phosphorescent lichen cling to the walls and ceiling, casting a weak, sickly light . The air is humid and unpleasant. Passages open north, northwest, south, and southwest from here.\n\nAs you shift position, one of your knees suddenly buckles, and you stumble to the side. You successfully catch yourself against the wall with an outflung hand. When you regain your balance and pull your hand away, you see a black handprint on the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the handprint", "response": "It looks as if the lichen has been damaged on one wall, as a black handprint mars the faint green glow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Everything smells like lichen. Still, you think the air coming from the north might be a bit fresher.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A narrow stream, no more than a few handsbreadths across, trickles in from the northeast and flows away to the south. Thin crusts of phosphorescent lichen cling to the walls and ceiling, casting a weak, sickly light . The air is humid and unpleasant. Passages open northeast and south from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "A narrow stream, no more than a few handsbreadths across, trickles in from the northeast and flows away to the southwest. Thin crusts of phosphorescent lichen cling to the walls and ceiling, casting a weak, sickly light . The air is humid and unpleasant. Passages open northeast and southwest from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "A narrow stream, no more than a few handsbreadths across, trickles in from the east and flows away to the southwest. Thin crusts of phosphorescent lichen cling to the walls and ceiling, casting a weak, sickly light . The air is humid and unpleasant. Passages open north, southwest, and east from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Everything smells like lichen. Still, you think the air coming from the east might be a bit fresher.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Underground, Below the Night\nSuddenly, you come around a twist in the tunnel to see light shining down through a broad gap in the stone -- real light, moonlight, which washes the lichen's sickly glow into insubstantiality. The small stream coursing through the cavern has its source here, for a thin stream of water pours down through the gap and pools at your feet before wandering away through the passages.\n\nBeside the waterfall, a crude ladder leads upward and outward to a cold night sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You scoop up some of the stream water in your hand and drink from your palm. The water is cool and tastes slightly fungal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at myself", "response": "There is no reflective surface nearby in which you can get a proper look at yourself. However, despite your best efforts to remain tidy, your fur is dusty from the road, and you are not completely comfortable with your current appearance. You would definitely welcome the opportunity to tidy up.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Underground, Below the Night\nMoonlight shines down through a broad gap in the stone, washing the lichen's sickly glow into insubstantiality. The small stream coursing through the cavern has its source here, for a thin stream of water pours down through the gap and pools at your feet before wandering away through the passages.\n\nBeside the waterfall, a crude ladder leads upward and outward to a cold night sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "From here, you can go south and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the ladder", "response": "Well done!\n\nYou climb the ladder rapidly. It is slightly slick from moisture, but not dangerously so, and a cool, refreshing mist envelops you as you reach the top of the ladder and lift yourself onto a rocky hillside. Below, there are pines.\n\nYou draw a deep breath of air, and it smells like incense.\n\nIncense....\n\nThe hillside fades....\n\nBalanced on the edge between wakefulness and sleep, you lie in a room where the smell of incense rests heavily on the air. At least one blanket presses your body down, but you are not uncomfortably warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the blanket", "response": "The sheets are fine and soft -- linen, perhaps -- and there is at least one heavier blanket atop them, which feels like wool.\n\nTo the left, there is the soft, slightly echoing scrape of a door opening and closing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You give up on this unimpressive world and allow yourself to drift back into dreams.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Your eyes are closed, and, in this half-dreaming state, you can't remember how to open them.\n\nCaerwyn's voice comes from your left. Her voice is low but clear. \"Hachachi. How is our patient?\"\n\nThere is a pause before Hachachi responds. His voice is very near, not far from your right elbow, and his soft words are heavy and slurred. \"No change. Still 'sleep.\"\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This, in the darkness:\n\nYou are dying.\n\nOrange light hurls itself through darkness, and it takes the shape of a bird. The light-wreathed bird burns your vision as sharply as the sun would, but in this dream, you can gaze without looking away. A feathered crest runs over the bird's skull, and its tail is as long and ornate as a peacock's, painted in all the myriad colors of fire. The phoenix's light parts the darkness....\n\nYou stand upon a narrow ledge on the side of a blackened rock cliff. A thin path traces over the rock to your left, but your ledge is cut off from the path by a twenty-foot gap. Far overhead, the phoenix burns in all its glory on a course from west to east, and beyond the phoenix, you see a starry expanse of night sky. Far below, you see city lanterns shining against the night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Phoenix", "response": "Looking at the phoenix is as painful as staring directly at the sun, and it leaves raw blue afterimages in your vision, yet you can still see the night sky beyond it.\n\nWith the flick of a wingtip, the phoenix turns overhead, raining tiny vermilion flamelets as it shifts its course from east to south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the night sky", "response": "Among the scattered silver stars, you recognize the constellation of the Heron. However, the constellation has changed from the version that normally shines in the night sky. A new star shimmers upon the heron's breast.\n\nA woman descends into view upon the thin path. In the phoenix's light, you see that she is a very old shaghal woman, pale with age and trembling with exhaustion. Her milky white eyes are fixed upon the phoenix's distant radiance. She does not look at you even for a moment as she hurries along her pained, stumbling course. Upon the mountain breeze, you catch her anguished whisper: \"Wait for me. Wait for me....\"\n\nFrom north to south, she passes down the cliff and is gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb down", "response": "You must name something more substantial.\n\nIn the near southern sky, the phoenix folds its wings and stoops. Engulfed in orange fire, it burns out of the heavens like a meteor and drops upon the city. When it strikes, the buildings explode into flame. A broad halo expands around the city. The phoenix is gone; the city is gone....\n\nEverything is gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow her", "response": "Again, in the darkness:\n\nThese dreams are killing you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nIn the near southern sky, the phoenix folds its wings and stoops. Engulfed in orange fire, it burns out of the heavens like a meteor and drops upon the city. When it strikes, the buildings explode into flame. A broad halo expands around the city. The phoenix is gone; the city is gone....\n\nEverything is gone.\n\nAgain, in the darkness:\n\nThese dreams are killing you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake", "response": "Phoenix's Landing, East Flame Street\nBy the light of its own burning edges, a nearby signpost advises that this wide road bears the ill-omened name of East Flame Street. Wooden buildings blaze to the north and south, and the air reeks of scorched vegetables from a nearby farm stand. The air is filled with smoke and the sounds of crying, babbling people as the city's inhabitants flee toward the eastern gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the people", "response": "You catch no more than glimpses of faces as the crowd surges by.\nHuman, chiroptera, and shaghal, every face is distorted with fear.\n\nAgain, the dream changes.\n\nThe afternoon sky is completely curtained with cloud, leaving only a cool white glow visible above the northern mountains where the sun should be. A small willow tree drops yellow leaflets along the top of the low stone wall bordering the graveyard, whispering softly in the breeze as it does. Several gravestones stand among the tousled green grass, but no one has tended them for some time, and they are overgrown.\n\nA light autumn breeze sways the willow tree and sends more leaves scattering down across the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the graves", "response": "The featureless, water-smoothed markers stand silent sentinel above forgotten graves. Grass covers their faces.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the willow", "response": "The changing season has painted almost all of the willow's leaves yellow, and many golden leaflets have fallen from the willow's limbs to adorn the wall and the grass below. (But it was spring when you arrived with your father... wasn't it?) Something glints among the willow's branches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the grass", "response": "You fail to move the grass.\n\nA light autumn breeze sways the willow tree and sends more leaves scattering down across the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glint", "response": "(the glint)\nThe glinting thing turns out to be a small mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mirror", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "There is no reflective surface nearby in which you can get a proper look at yourself. However, despite your best efforts to remain tidy, your fur is dusty from the road, and you are not completely comfortable with your current appearance. You would definitely welcome the opportunity to tidy up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "The mirror reflects your surroundings, but it does not reflect you, and your surroundings are strangely transformed. In the image, it is night rather than afternoon, and moonlit snowflakes drift across the wall in place of willow leaves. In the willow's shadow, a human man stands leaning against the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "Gazing into the mirror, you find that you can make out very little of the man's features. This is partially because his face is averted from the moonlight, and partially because of the willow tree's shadow, but it is also partially because the moonlight does not seem to illumine him well. He is an indistinct shadow among indistinct shadows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "You gaze into the mirror.\n\n[1] \"Hello?\"\n\nA light autumn breeze sways the willow tree and sends more leaves scattering down across the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "At the sound, the shadowed man in the mirror lifts his chin sharply and looks directly at you.\n\nCan you hear me, dream creature?\n\n[1] \"Yes, I can hear you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "The shadowed man in the mirror shifts his stance to brace both of his hands against the wall behind him.\n\nLet us talk, then.\n\n[1] \"Who are you?\"\n[2] \"Where am I?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "This is my grave -- or a dream of it, at least. To the north is the mountain I travelled. To the west is the city I loved, though too far to see from here.\n\n[1] \"Who are you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "There is a long pause.\n\nFor my failure, they buried me, and they took away my name.\n\n[1] \"They buried you? Who is 'they'?\"\n[2] \"Who are your companions?\"\n[3] \"You are a ghost, then....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "The temple of Ferran. High Tashreg commanded that I be buried in an unmarked grave, and he struck my name from all records. If any of my companions endure, they may be able to speak my name to you, but I know that many have been lost.\n\n[1] \"Who are your companions?\"\n[2] \"You said High Tashreg. You don't mean High Caerwyn?\"\n[3] \"You are a ghost, then....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "I don't even know who's alive and who's dead. Achimi is dead, but she died before I did. So did Ichethe. Hichaesho, Arleza, Draskeg... maybe one of them survives. Or Hazeltricema. The melia are long-lived, they say....\n\n[1] \"You said High Tashreg. You don't mean High Caerwyn?\"\n[2] \"You are a ghost, then....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "High Tashreg of the Stars. I know no Caerwyn... but she surely came after my time. If Tashreg is dead, I have no grief for it. May he wander and dream, as I was bound to wander.\n\n[1] \"You are a ghost, then....\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You are not a ghost, then.\n\nIn the mirror, the shadowed man stands up a bit straighter.\n\nHow did you come to be here?\n\nYou explain how you were deceived and drugged, including, at the ghost's request, a description of the drink.\n\nIt is called dreamwine, and they strengthen it with heartkenning -- a diviner's tool used in my day, though only carefully. It draws you to your destiny... but if you have no greater destiny, no geas and no star, then it will draw you to every man's destiny.\n\n[1] \"Can you help me?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You are lost in dreams, and your dreams are poisoned by your fate. If you have no destiny, then you will die.\n\nI died without completing my destiny. If you accept my destiny, then you will live. I can help you, if you will accept my help.\n\n[1] \"What is your destiny?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "I will stay with you through the dreaming, and I will draw you into wakefulness. But once you are awake, you will obey me and serve me until the end of your days. It is an exchange: your life for my destiny. Do you accept?\n\n[1] \"I accept your offer.\"\n[2] \"I refuse your offer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "The shadowed man in the mirror looks surprised.\n\nHow can you reject my offer? This will mean your death.\n\n\"Because, if I do not reject it, then it is also my death. What you offer is no gift -- it is slavery. You would chain me to your will -- but I am bound already to my creche-clan. If I make such a vow for my life, I am no chirop at all, but a dead thing broken on the stones. So find another way, or I will die here willingly.\"\n\nThere is a long pause. The shadowed man rubs his chin for a moment.\n\nAnd your counterproposal?\n\n[1] Answer the ghost....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"Save my life,\" you say. \"Come with me. When you see the path of your destiny, you may tell me, and I will listen -- but I will not be bound to obey.\"\n\nAnd why should I make this compact? I can merely wait for the next lost soul, who will be more sensible than you.\n\n[1] Answer the ghost....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"You should make this compact because you have been buried so long that you have forgotten your own name. When another comes along... if another comes along... you may have been buried so long that you forget how to speak.\" After a moment, you add, \"Also, because I have a star.\"\n\nI accept.\n\nBreak the mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break mirror", "response": "You smash the mirror across the low wall. As the mirror breaks, it sounds like a shattering icicle, and a cold blast of wind whips across you, heavy with the scent of snow. As you draw your next breath, the taste of winter comes with it, and a heavy, liquid coldness courses into your chest and down your limbs. For a moment, you glimpse the shadowed man leaning against the low wall by the willow tree, but then, he is gone.\n\nThe broken shards of mirror melt before your eyes, and they, too, are gone.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The afternoon sky is completely curtained with cloud, leaving only a cool white glow visible above the northern mountains where the sun should be. A small willow tree drops yellow leaflets along the top of the low stone wall bordering the graveyard, whispering softly in the breeze as it does. Several gravestones stand among the tousled green grass, but no one has tended them for some time, and they are overgrown.\n\nIf you can still hear me, speak to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to him", "response": "You turn your thoughts inward.\n\n[1] I can hear you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Good. Now, we need you to leave this dream. Walk south out of the graveyard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The willow tree whispers a soft goodbye as you pass the graveyard's boundary.\n\nAn overgrown path leads down from the grassy graveyard, and you follow it. As you walk, the afternoon shifts from warm to cool, and the pale sun sets on your right. The sunset is shimmering and frail, but the clouds part to reveal a skyful of brilliantly shining stars. Like a ramp supported on nothingness, the path leads up from the earth and into the sky, and you follow it into the night.\n\nEventually, the path fades away, and only the a star-filled blackness surrounds you. You pause to reorient.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Stars", "response": "Which do you mean, the Heron, the Bull, the Badger, the Cat, the Hound, the Pelican, the Alligator, the Rat, or the Mantis?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Pelican", "response": "Ten glowing silver stars form the Pelican constellation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mantis", "response": "Eight glowing silver stars form the Mantis constellation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the mantis", "response": "[Use TALK TO to interact with characters.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "You turn your thoughts inward.\n\n[1] \"How do I wake up from this?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Waking is very close. We need to find my star --\n\n\"Our star.\"\n\nOur star. I can sense it nearby. Try going toward the Mantis.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go Mantis", "response": "You approach the Mantis constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA soft, slightly chittering voice intones, \"Mantis: 'Sarvath said, \"There shall be justice among people. Ferran, be their judge, and move their hearts so they know justice when they see it.\" And Ferran obeyed.'\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nThe Alligator.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go alligator", "response": "You approach the Alligator constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA harsh, gravelly voice intones, \"Alligator: 'And Sarvath said, \"Let people be tenacious in pursuing virtue, for it will be a difficult task many times. Ferran, teach them tenacity, that they may endure.\" And Ferran obeyed.'\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nI sense our star past the Rat now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go rat", "response": "You approach the Rat constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA small, sharp voice calls, \"Rat: 'And Sarvath said, \"Let people be resourceful, that they can turn the world to their advantage without relying on the gods. Ferran, teach them resourcefulness, that they may prosper.\" And Ferran obeyed.'\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nGo toward the Hound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go hound", "response": "You approach the Hound constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA rich, powerful voice intones, \"Hound: 'And Sarvath said, \"Let people be loyal, even as you are, so that they will not turn against one another. Ferran, teach them loyalty, for there is no truer mark of virtue.\" And Ferran obeyed.'\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nI sense our star past the Heron now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go heron", "response": "You approach the Heron constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA cracked, croaking voice intones, \"Heron: 'And Sarvath said, \"Let people be insightful, so that they can understand themselves and their flaws. Ferran, teach them insight, for this will mark the way for them.\" And Ferran obeyed.'\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nThe Badger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go badger", "response": "You approach the Badger constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA low, quick voice snarls, \"Badger: 'And Sarvath said, \"Let people be responsible, so that they can see how their actions affect one another. Ferran, teach them responsibility, that they will not drive one another from virtue.\" And Ferran obeyed.'\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nI sense our star past the Pelican now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go pelican", "response": "You approach the Pelican constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA clear, strong voice calls, \"Pelican: 'And when Sarvath went into the desert, Ferran gazed after him, and he said, 'This, I perceive, is virtue: the King has laid down his blood, that the world would prosper.' And Ferran taught that self-sacrifice was virtue as well.\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nThe Bull.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go bull", "response": "You approach the Bull constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA deep, melodic voice intones, \"Bull: 'And there came a day when Ferran went into the desert, and Sarvath asked him, \"How fares Adisha? She has not come to me.\" And in the face of the question, Ferran was silent and could not answer, for he had gone at Adisha's command to companion her, and he feared that his King was betrayed.\n\n'Then, Sarvath said to him, \"You have been loyal to my Queen and obeyed her commands, and I could ask no more in this regard. But your silence is against virtue. Bind your word to your deed, that you will be honest in the future, and teach people honesty as well.\" And Ferran obeyed.'\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift at the center of a sphere of glowing silver stars. Although you can recognize the constellations of the spring night sky, they are arranged in no resemblance to their normal positioning. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nThe Cat is next.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go cat", "response": "You approach the Cat constellation. It flashes brilliantly, and you are briefly disoriented by the light.\n\nA soft, purring voice intones, \"Cat: 'Then Ferran looked back at Sarvath, and Ferran said, \"You have chosen my path through the maze, but what of your people? When the paths of virtue conflict, your people will be destroyed if they cannot choose or reject these paths at will. Therefore, let dignity be the crowning virtue of a man, that he may choose or reject according to it.\" And Sarvath consented.'\"\n\nAgain, you are drifting in the night sky. The constellations have rearranged themselves around you, leaving you again at the center of the celestial sphere.\n\nYou drift among a field of glowing silver stars. Between the stars, there is only blackness.\n\nYou can see your star here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go your star", "response": "You reach out with the intention of entering your star, but as soon as you touch the star, tingling energy flows up your arm. Startled, you break contact immediately.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the star", "response": "(your star)\nThe star shines brilliantly before you, close enough to touch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Touch star", "response": "(your star)\nYou reach out with the intention of touching your star, but as soon as you touch the star, tingling energy flows up your arm. Startled, you break contact immediately.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the star", "response": "(your star)\nYou cup your hands gently around the star. \"I claim you,\" you say to the star.\n\nTingles of energy flow through your hands and up your arms as you make contact. The star dims for a moment before bursting into searing brilliance. Your entire body is flooded with light.\n\nYou awaken, and this time, you know you are awake. You feel rested, refreshed, and as well as you have ever felt, aside from the too-hot bedclothes. You push the blankets away immediately and sit up.\n\nTemple of Ferran, Infirmary\nWool and linen blankets cover the simple linen bed where you are sitting. A set of shelves on the far wall supports a water jug, several packets of herbs and bandages, and a miniature pottery alligator. There is a door to your left and a chair to your right.\n\nHachachi rises immediately from the chair as you move. High Caerwyn stands in the doorway, watching you, but she steps immediately inside and closes the door.\n\n\"Can you hear me?\" High Caerwyn asks.\n\n[1] \"Yes, I can hear you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"I'm very glad of it. There was a terrible accident. We've been very worried about you.\"\n\n[1] Call her out on the lie.\n[2] Let the lie pass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"No,\" you say flatly. \"There was no accident. I was there, remember?\" Hachachi takes a step back as you look at him, and you follow up on your advantage by climbing out of bed. \"You poisoned me on dreamwine with heartkenning. You wanted to learn my destiny.\"\n\n[1] \"How long have I been here?\"\n[2] \"Where is my trade\n[3] \"I want my clothes. And then I am going to leave.\"\n[4] \"I know my destiny, now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "High Caerwyn says, \"You've been ill for a long time. He left you in our care.\"\n\nLiar.\n\n\"And where is he now?\" you demand.\n\nHigh Caerwyn says, \"If you remain calm, I will send a messenger to see if he can be found.\"\n\n[1] \"How long have I been here?\"\n[2] \"I want my clothes. And then I am going to leave.\"\n[3] \"I know my destiny, now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "\"And what is your destiny?\" High Caerwyn asks.\n\n\"It is my destiny,\" you coldly inform her. \"I am walking out that door, with my clothing... and, by the stars you serve, I expect you both to stay out of my way!\"\n\nAnd that is exactly what happens -- you storm into the hallway, with High Caerwyn and Hachachi on your heels. Before you can corner an acolyte and demand your possessions, Caerwyn sends Hachachi to find them, and then you bar them both out of another greeting chamber (the Rat, this time) while you get dressed and verify that all your possessions are still intact. After sliding your zircon earrings back into place, you open the door once more.\nThe delay has given the high priestess time to regroup, but you ignore her entirely, and she stops just short of laying hands upon you or commanding Hachachi to do so. You take advantage of the hesitation before the changes her mind. It is only a short walk to the temple courtyard, and from there, you are free.\n\nThat was a wild risk to take. They might have helped you, in the long term -- or imprisoned you in the short term.\n\n\"If you really thought so, you would have spoken up before now,\" you whisper back to the ghost. \"They worship the stars. If my path is in the stars, they have no choice about it.\"\n\nAre you always this touchy with the clergy?\n\n\"Only when they poison me.\" But the tide of fury slowly ebbs as you face your situation. You are now in the largest city you have ever seen, with no friends, no map, only the vaguest possible idea of where your father might be, and a nameless ghost riding along in your mind.\n\nYou go south because the bridges off the Spires are south. There's nothing here but temples and government, and you're sick of temples for the time being.\n\nThank you for playing Phoenix's Landing!\n\nThis is the end of the IntroComp sequence for this game. To provide feedback, commentary, and suggestions (all of which are welcome!), please write to Carolyn VanEseltine at mossdogmusic@gmail.com.\n\nHave a wonderful day!", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Surreal" ]

[ "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It was supposed to be a carefree escape. Just you, your yacht, and a two-month supply of frozen pizza, chicken fingers, and beer. But it seems there was an uninvited guest: scurvy.\n\nThe immaculate fiberglass transom of your 45-foot yacht only highlights the hideous, scorbutic condition of your body. Fifty-eight days of nothing but carbohydrates, alcohol, and deep-fried poultry have come to this.\n\nYou cannot speak, and you can barely move. You can only muster the strength to groan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You moan a wet-sounding sough.\n\nHOW TO PLAY: The options available to your scurvy-riddled brain and body are:\n\nexamine\ngive\ngroan\nwait\n\nTyping \"help\" at any time will bring up this list again. It will not, however, restore your body's ability to synthesize collagen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate yourself", "response": "You're really more of an animal person.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate scurvy", "response": "You're really more of an animal person.\n\nA chance look at the ocean reveals the corpulent outline of a surfacing manatee.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate the manatee", "response": "As you ruminate on the merits of the manatee -- so noble! So gentle! -- your vision blurs and you feel your perspective shift.\n\nThe smell of citrus awakens long-dead senses, as a gentle breeze wafts through row after row of orange trees in fruit. The wind only somewhat irritates your inflamed gums, so that's an improvement.\n\nYou can see some trees and a manatee farmer here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "Festooned with life-giving citrus. Even one of them would save your life, but for one thing they are too far away and for another they are guarded by a possessive manatee farmer.\n\n\"Boy howdy, I could stand to whet my whistle. Preferably with something alcoholic.\" The manatee farmer winks. \"Got me one of them demandin' whistles.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You grumble a heartrending wail.\n\n\"Take yer grousin' somewhere else,\" says the manatee. \"I've seen worse.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na jacket (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jacket", "response": "You bought this jacket to symbolize your financial independence and freedom. Right now it's soaked with a heady combination of rum, breading, and old sweat.\n\nThe manatee twitches its vibrissae. \"Been a long day out here,\" it muses. \"Could sure use a tall cold one.\"\n\nBefore you can act, the smell of the ocean fills your nostrils and your vision shifts again as the hallucination expires.\n\nThe immaculate fiberglass transom of your 45-foot yacht only highlights the hideous, scorbutic condition of your body. Fifty-eight days of nothing but carbohydrates, alcohol, and deep-fried poultry have come to this.\n\nYou cannot speak, and you can barely move. You can only muster the strength to groan.\n\nYou can see a rat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate rat", "response": "As you meditate on the merits of the rat -- so resourceful! So thrifty! -- your vision blurs and you feel your perspective shift.\n\nThe mountain of treasure piled before you shimmers with the casual indifference of unadulterated wealth. Torches burn in the wall sconces, contributing to the impression of an ill-gotten fortune.\n\nSitting before his hoard in a gilded Aeron chair, whiskers twitching proudly, is a rat tycoon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the treasure", "response": "You see amethyst goblets, hillocks of gold doubloons, and what appears to be a life-sized jewel-encrusted chimpanzee.\n\nWith studied indifference, the whiskered prince of business hefts a crystalline chalice. \"Feh. About as much emotion in this object as there is in my multinational corporation's mission statement.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chimpanzee", "response": "Was it ever alive? And if so, isn't this better?\n\n\"I would give it all up,\" the tycoon says, nervously worrying at his lapels, \"for proof that love exists in this cynical, bottom-line-driven world.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate the chimpanzee", "response": "This is not the 2010 film sensation Inception.\n\nBefore you can act, the smell of the ocean fills your nostrils and your vision shifts again as the hallucination expires.\n\nThe immaculate fiberglass transom of your 45-foot yacht only highlights the hideous, scorbutic condition of your body. Fifty-eight days of nothing but carbohydrates, alcohol, and deep-fried poultry have come to this.\n\nYou cannot speak, and you can barely move. You can only muster the strength to groan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the beer", "response": "You emit a piteous sob.\n\nWith a loud caw, a seagull alights on the aft railing in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate the seagull", "response": "As you ruminate on the merits of the seagull -- so loud! So gregarious! -- your vision blurs and you feel your perspective shift.\n\nThe candlelit taproom smells of liquor and cherry-wood. Dignified in her barkeep's apron, your seagull wife swabs the surface of the bar with a feathered wing.\n\nOne look and you know she's a loving, caring wife who can carry her end of a conversation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the seagull", "response": "She grits her beak with frustrated determination, and worry-lines crinkle the downy spots around her eyes.\n\nYour seagull wife taps idly at the cash register with her beak. It springs open, empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss seagull", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nBefore you can act, the smell of the ocean fills your nostrils and your vision shifts again as the hallucination expires.\n\nThe immaculate fiberglass transom of your 45-foot yacht only highlights the hideous, scorbutic condition of your body. Fifty-eight days of nothing but carbohydrates, alcohol, and deep-fried poultry have come to this.\n\nYou cannot speak, and you can barely move. You can only muster the strength to groan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You moan a wet-sounding sough.\n\nA chance look at the ocean reveals the corpulent outline of a surfacing manatee.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na jacket (being worn)\n\nWith a deliberate flap of its platter-sized forelimb, the manatee sinks back into the deep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jacket", "response": "You bought this jacket to symbolize your financial independence and freedom. Right now it's soaked with a heady combination of rum, breading, and old sweat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You emit a piteous sob.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The immaculate fiberglass transom of your 45-foot yacht only highlights the hideous, scorbutic condition of your body. Fifty-eight days of nothing but carbohydrates, alcohol, and deep-fried poultry have come to this.\n\nYou cannot speak, and you can barely move. You can only muster the strength to groan.\n\nYou hear a tiny scrabble, as a waterlogged rat climbs out of the bilge pipe into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate rat", "response": "As you ruminate on the merits of the rat -- so crafty! So furry! -- your vision blurs and you feel your perspective shift.\n\nThe mountain of treasure piled before you shimmers with the casual indifference of unadulterated wealth. Torches burn in the wall sconces, contributing to the impression of an ill-gotten fortune.\n\nSitting before his hoard in a gilded Aeron chair, whiskers twitching proudly, is a rat tycoon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jacket", "response": "(to the rat)\nThe rat tycoon scoffs. \"Oh please, I already have twenty of these. In fact, I own the factory that makes them.\" He beams. \"It's very efficient.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wealth", "response": "You sob a melancholy shriek.\n\n\"This is the worst product pitch I've had to sit through in weeks. Who gave you time on my schedule?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate rat", "response": "This is not the 2010 film sensation Inception.\n\nBefore you can act, the smell of the ocean fills your nostrils and your vision shifts again as the hallucination expires.\n\nThe immaculate fiberglass transom of your 45-foot yacht only highlights the hideous, scorbutic condition of your body. Fifty-eight days of nothing but carbohydrates, alcohol, and deep-fried poultry have come to this.\n\nYou cannot speak, and you can barely move. You can only muster the strength to groan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You shriek a dismal yawlp.\n\nWith a loud caw, a seagull alights on the aft railing in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate the seagull", "response": "As you reflect on the merits of the seagull -- so confident! So feathered! -- your vision blurs and you feel your perspective shift.\n\nThe candlelit taproom smells of liquor and cherry-wood. Dignified in her barkeep's apron, your seagull wife swabs the surface of the bar with a feathered wing.\n\nOne look and you know she's a loving, caring wife who can carry her end of a conversation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jacket", "response": "(to the seagull)\nShe eyes your jacket with skepticism. \"That won't pay the bills,\" she caws. \"Nothing will.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the seagull", "response": "You emit a piteous sob.\n\nTimes may be hard, but you swore to love each other for richer or for poorer, and she is a gull of integrity.\n\nTaking flight over the bar with a single flap, she lands at your side and cradles your head under her wing. For minutes, you sit there together in silence. As she hops back, you feel the gentle poke of a wing feather caught in your captain's jacket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the feather", "response": "It smells uncannily like love. Well, love and seagull.\n\n\"I just don't know,\" comes the frustrated coo. \"What more can we do to attract customers?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nBefore you can act, the smell of the ocean fills your nostrils and your vision shifts again as the hallucination expires.\n\nThe immaculate fiberglass transom of your 45-foot yacht only highlights the hideous, scorbutic condition of your body. Fifty-eight days of nothing but carbohydrates, alcohol, and deep-fried poultry have come to this.\n\nYou cannot speak, and you can barely move. You can only muster the strength to groan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You wail a tearful sob.\n\nA chance look at the ocean reveals the corpulent outline of a surfacing manatee.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You discharge a dismal wail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You shriek a dismal yawlp.\n\nWith a deliberate flap of its platter-sized forelimb, the manatee sinks back into the deep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You shriek a grotesque keen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You let loose a pathetic moan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You cry an attention-seeking sigh.\n\nYou hear a tiny scrabble, as a waterlogged rat climbs out of the bilge pipe into view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate rat", "response": "As you reflect on the merits of the rat -- so resourceful! So thrifty! -- your vision blurs and you feel your perspective shift.\n\nThe mountain of treasure piled before you shimmers with the casual indifference of unadulterated wealth. Torches burn in the wall sconces, contributing to the impression of an ill-gotten fortune.\n\nSitting before his hoard in a gilded Aeron chair, whiskers twitching proudly, is a rat tycoon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the feather", "response": "(to the rat)\nThe rat begins to sneer at the feather, but then pauses. He sniffs the air. \"This... this feather smells like love. True love. Clearly it is a treasure to you.\" His eyes become greedy. \"The feather must be mine.\"\n\nTurning around, he fishes in his treasure pile, pulls out a large bag of money, and tosses it into your lap. \"Take this instead, buy yourself a new soulmate.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bag", "response": "The clinking of coins inside reminds you of your own money-pile back home.\n\nWith studied indifference, the whiskered prince of business hefts a crystalline chalice. \"Feh. About as much emotion in this object as there is in my multinational corporation's mission statement.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You bleat a horrible lamentation.\n\nWith a loud caw, a seagull alights on the aft railing in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate gull", "response": "As you meditate on the merits of the seagull -- so loud! So gregarious! -- your vision blurs and you feel your perspective shift.\n\nThe candlelit taproom smells of liquor and cherry-wood. Dignified in her barkeep's apron, your seagull wife swabs the surface of the bar with a feathered wing.\n\nOne look and you know she's a loving, caring wife who can carry her end of a conversation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bag", "response": "(to the seagull)\nAt first, she can't believe it. Her beady eyes dilate, and her crown-feathers ruffle in surprise. \"Is that... for us?\" Defying biology, a tear rolls down her seagull cheek.\n\nAs proudly as you can muster under the circumstances, you nod.\n\n\"Let's celebrate!\" She clutches two of the tavern's finest microbrews in one claw, and walks around the bar to your side. Handing you a bottle, she chirps in your ear: \"Someone's getting lucky tonight.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "Cisco Brewers' The Grey Lady, named for the often foggy island where it is brewed. This wheat beer is fermented with Belgian yeast and brewed with fresh fruit and spices. A unique ale that emits a complex, earthy nose and a soft, mid-palate maltiness with hints of tropical fruit. Dry and spicy.\n\nYour seagull wife taps idly at the cash register with her beak. It springs open, empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na microbrew\na jacket (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Groan", "response": "You emit a piteous sob.\n\nA chance look at the ocean reveals the corpulent outline of a surfacing manatee.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Appreciate the manatee", "response": "As you reflect on the merits of the manatee -- so massive! So calm! -- your vision blurs and you feel your perspective shift.\n\nThe smell of citrus awakens long-dead senses, as a gentle breeze wafts through row after row of orange trees in fruit. The wind only somewhat irritates your inflamed gums, so that's an improvement.\n\nYou can see some trees and a manatee farmer here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the microbrew", "response": "(to the manatee farmer)\n\"Now we're talkin'!\" The manatee positively leaps with excitement, to the extent that a manatee can leap.\n\n\"S'pose it's only fair you get somethin' in return.\" Ponderously, the farmer stabs the nearest orange with its pitchfork, then tucks the fruit into your jacket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the orange", "response": "With just one bite, you feel life-giving Vitamin C begin to course through your veins. It won't be long before you're back on land, resuming your life as a wealthy yacht-owning layabout.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Science Fiction" ]

[ "Thanksgiving Speed-IF", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "\"It was supposed to be a simple test run, right? Yeah, right. So\nthe Chief decides, 'Hey, I'll test it,' right? And he takes passengers. Five passengers. Investors! And himself! HIMSELF! There's laws about that! And what happens? Well, what do you expect? An hour away, his engines go crit, and he's shootin' towards this hunk o' rock you an' me call home. Terra Firma. So Firma it'll Terra him up, right? I tell you what! He's going to end up as a smudge of the man he used to be unless you can get that new-fangled safety net workin'!\" Transmission ends. And that is how you, in your best rented tuxedo, ended up under the high-power, experimental, not-completely-legal safety net, trying to fix it before your boss's boss makes a pool of himself.\n\nThe junk room is full of all sorts of odds and ends that no one could bring themselves to throw away. All sorts of things litter the shelves and the floor. The way you came in, an auto-locking door, has auto-locked, and won't unlock until morning. The only other exit leads out into the viewing room.\n\nYou see a crystal ball and an optical prism here. Scattered across the bottom shelves, among the junk, are a magnifying glass, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, a leather arm guard, and an optical prism. The jar contains silica beads. Just visible from the top shelf are a lump of labradorite and a bow and arrow charm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look the same as usual.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "crystal ball: Taken.\noptical prism: Taken.\nmagnifying glass: Taken.\nwater pistol: Taken.\nbismuth crystal: Taken.\njar: Taken.\n\nleather arm guard: You tug on the leather arm guard. It seems to be a bit stuck; you give a bit of a yank, and it comes free. With a creak, a ladder comes crashing onto the floor! It must have been stuck behind all that junk.\n\noptical prism: Taken.\n\nlump of labradorite: The lump of labradorite is too far away.\n\nbow and arrow charm: The bow and arrow charm is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ball", "response": "The large globe appears to be made of glass, and is quite solid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pistol", "response": "This is a model of a holdout gun, faithfully reproduced in bright green plastic, and filled with historically-accurate water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the prism", "response": "A small optical prism, for refracting light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a crystal ball, two optical prisms, a magnifying glass, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, and a leather arm guard. You're wearing some black slacks, some slick shoes, a bowtie, a top hat, and a tux. The jar contains silica beads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the prisms", "response": "The word \"prisms\" is not necessary in this story.\n\n(If this was an accidental misspelling, you can correct it by typing OOPS followed by the corrected word now. Any time the story points out an unknown word, you can correct a misspelling using OOPS as your next command.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the beads", "response": "Silica beads are used to absorb moisture.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ladder", "response": "A beat up old ladder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ladder", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at labradorite", "response": "It's a lump of shiny, iridescent labradorite.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the charm", "response": "It's a small charm from a charm bracelet or necklace - a tiny bow and arrow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You can't go that way. The only obvious exit leads out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the ladder", "response": "You carefully set up the ladder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the charm", "response": "Taken.\n\n(If you'd prefer not to be notified about score changes in the future, type NOTIFY OFF.)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Junk room (standing on the ladder)\nThe junk room is full of all sorts of odds and ends that no one could bring themselves to throw away. All sorts of things litter the shelves and the floor. The way you came in, an auto-locking door, has auto-locked, and won't unlock until morning. The only other exit leads out into the viewing room.\n\nYou see a ladder here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "(off of the ladder)\nOkay, you're no longer on the ladder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "Try as you might, you can't find a good angle to get the ladder through the door. It looks like you'll have to abandon it before you can leave. Though it raises the question: how did the ladder get in, in the first place? For all you know, it was built inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "The viewing room looks out into the net itself - a wide, empty expanse, hypothetically to be filled with some kind of energy. Inside, you see A bright, diffuse light shines on the wall, through a wire stand. . The window itself is made of layered glass - beyond bulletproof, it stops most forms of radiation, as well. A door in the glass wall leads into the net chamber; the doorway behind you leads into the junk room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "The junk room is full of all sorts of odds and ends that no one could bring themselves to throw away. All sorts of things litter the shelves and the floor. The way you came in, an auto-locking door, has auto-locked, and won't unlock until morning. The only other exit leads out into the viewing room.\n\nYou see a ladder here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stand", "response": "The wire stand is about chest-height, with a small loop to hold... something. The light shines directly through the gap over the loop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the light", "response": "The steady, white light illuminates a section of the wall. You recall something about focussed light being used to drive the safety net.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The glass door is already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go through the door", "response": "The safety net was designed as an inertial dampner of some sort; no one really knows how it works. Even the inventor seems a bit in the dark, and he's the only one that can make it work! The glass door leads back into the viewing room. A bright, diffuse light shines on the wall, through a wire stand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the glass on the loop", "response": "The beam of light, focussed by the magnifying glass, shines through a tiny hole. Farther along the wall, a small shelf is illuminated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the prism on the shelf", "response": "The light from the beam splits into a rainbow of color; blue light shines into a tiny crack on the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crack", "response": "The crack is vertical, allowing only a tiny sliver of light to shine through. There seems to be some sort of optical fiber in the crack to transmit the light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn prism", "response": "You turn the prism. The light that shines through the crack is now violet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn prism", "response": "You turn the prism. The light that shines through the crack is now red.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn prism", "response": "You turn the prism. The light that shines through the crack is now orange.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn prism", "response": "You turn the prism. The light that shines through the crack is now yellow. With a clank, a panel slides open in the wall!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the panel", "response": "A tangle of wires and cables snake across the panel; you recall someone mentioning that the only really important wires were the power wires. There's a note, stuck to the panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "This panel is use for power, and only power. I traced the wires, and half of them lead nowhere, or right back to this panel. If the whole thing shorted out, it would probably work better. PS, I quit Oh, right! Now you remember writing that. Fun times, fun times...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a crystal ball, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, a leather arm guard, an optical prism, a bow and arrow charm, and a lump of labradorite. You're wearing some black slacks, some slick shoes, a bowtie, a top hat, and a tux. The jar contains silica beads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the pistol at the panel", "response": "You squirt the panel. The water shorts out the panel! Electricity crackles across junctions, and smoke drifts out of the opening, vanishing into the air. After a spectacular lightshow, a distant \"thump\" indicates the generators have started. The lights keep flickering, though, from shorting out in the puddle of water at the base of the panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the puddle", "response": "The puddle of water is shorting out the electrical panel, causing the lights to flicker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jar", "response": "It's a simple glass canning jar. It is tightly sealed. It contains silica beads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the jar", "response": "You spin the lid off of the jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the beads on puddle", "response": "The puddle slowly shrinks as the silica soaks it up. When it's all gone, you scoop the silica back into the jar. The lights stop flickering - maybe that means it's working! Quick, to the viewing room!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "What do you want to get out of?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "The viewing room looks out into the net itself - a wide, empty expanse, hypothetically to be filled with some kind of energy. Inside, you see The magnifying glass focusses the beam of light through a small hole in the wall. Farther along the wall, the beam passes through the prism; the resulting rainbow falls across a small hole, where only yellow light makes it through. The light glows inside the open panel. . The window itself is made of layered glass - beyond bulletproof, it stops most forms of radiation, as well. A door in the glass wall leads into the net chamber; the doorway behind you leads into the junk room.\n\nYou see an energy device (which contains a button) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the device", "response": "This thing seems to be an energy device - that's what it says on the label, anyway. It has a small hopper, with a display that reads: 0: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET . It contains a button.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the glass door", "response": "Closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at hopper", "response": "The hopper has a wide mouth, ready to accept any manner of things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a crystal ball, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, a leather arm guard, an optical prism, a bow and arrow charm, a lump of labradorite, and a canning jar lid. You're wearing some black slacks, some slick shoes, a bowtie, a top hat, and a tux.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the labradorite in the hopper", "response": "The display clicks happily, then displays: 1: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the crystal in the hopper", "response": "The display clicks happily, then displays: 2: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ball in the hopper", "response": "The display clicks happily, then displays: 3: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the charm in the hopper", "response": "The display clicks happily, then displays: 4: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in the hopper", "response": "black slacks: Wow - usually, it takes more than the single sip of wine you had to get you to remove your pants voluntarily. Let's just keep those on, shall we?\n\nslick shoes: Shoes like this are make for wearing! Actually, no they aren't, but the floor is dirty, and you're wearing your best pair of socks. Which is also your only pair of socks, at least until washing day.\n\nbowtie:\n(first taking off the bowtie)\nThe display clicks happily, then displays: 5: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\ntop hat:\n(first taking off the top hat)\nWith a sinking feeling in your heart, you realize what needs to go into the hopper. Sighing, you stare at your high silk hat, knowing that whatever this machine does, your hat will never be the same. After an emotional moment, you carefully put the hat into the hopper. The display clicks happily, then displays: READY\n\ntux: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nwater pistol: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\njar: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nleather arm guard: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\noptical prism: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\ncanning jar lid: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nbutton: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the pistol at the panel", "response": "You squirt the panel. The water shorts out the panel! Electricity crackles across junctions, and smoke drifts out of the opening, vanishing into the air. After a spectacular lightshow, a distant \"thump\" indicates the generators have started. The lights keep flickering, though, from shorting out in the puddle of water at the base of the panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the jar", "response": "You spin the lid off of the jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the beads on the puddle", "response": "(first taking the silica beads from the jar)\nThe puddle slowly shrinks as the silica soaks it up. When it's all gone, you scoop the silica back into the jar. The lights stop flickering - maybe that means it's working! Quick, to the viewing room!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in the hopper", "response": "black slacks: Wow - usually, it takes more than the single sip of wine you had to get you to remove your pants voluntarily. Let's just keep those on, shall we?\n\nslick shoes: Shoes like this are make for wearing! Actually, no they aren't, but the floor is dirty, and you're wearing your best pair of socks. Which is also your only pair of socks, at least until washing day.\n\nbowtie:\n(first taking off the bowtie)\nThe display clicks happily, then displays: 1: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\ntop hat:\n(first taking off the top hat)\nWith a sinking feeling in your heart, you realize what needs to go into the hopper. Sighing, you stare at your high silk hat, knowing that whatever this machine does, your hat will never be the same. After an emotional moment, you carefully put the hat into the hopper. The display clicks happily, then displays: READY\n\ntux: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\ncrystal ball: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nwater pistol: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nbismuth crystal: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\njar: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nleather arm guard: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\noptical prism: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nbow and arrow charm: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nlump of labradorite: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\ncanning jar lid: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!\n\nbutton: The hopper doesn't need anything more; push the button!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "The safety net was designed as an inertial dampner of some sort; no one really knows how it works. Even the inventor seems a bit in the dark, and he's the only one that can make it work! The glass door leads back into the viewing room. The magnifying glass focusses the beam of light through a small hole in the wall. Farther along the wall, the beam passes through the prism; the resulting rainbow falls across a small hole, where only yellow light makes it through. The light glows inside the open panel.\n\nIn the viewing room, you see an energy device (which contains a button). The hopper contains a bowtie and a top hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You can't go that way. The only obvious exit leads out, back to the viewing room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "The viewing room looks out into the net itself - a wide, empty expanse, hypothetically to be filled with some kind of energy. Inside, you see The magnifying glass focusses the beam of light through a small hole in the wall. Farther along the wall, the beam passes through the prism; the resulting rainbow falls across a small hole, where only yellow light makes it through. The light glows inside the open panel. . The window itself is made of layered glass - beyond bulletproof, it stops most forms of radiation, as well. A door in the glass wall leads into the net chamber; the doorway behind you leads into the junk room.\n\nYou see an energy device (which contains a button) here. The hopper contains a bowtie and a top hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelves", "response": "Though the shelves are stuffed with junk, they seem to be free of dust and grime.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bowtie", "response": "The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a crystal ball, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, a leather arm guard, an optical prism, a bow and arrow charm, a lump of labradorite, a canning jar lid, and a bowtie. You're wearing some black slacks, some slick shoes, and a tux.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the slacks", "response": "The last pants you bought cost the same as a fast food meal. These pants, however, cost the same as your car. You'd think with pants that expensive, they could afford to put in a pocket, eh?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shoes", "response": "These shoes are made of slick, shiny leather. They also have damage insurance policy better than your car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at tux", "response": "The black tuxedo was fairly expensive to rent, but man it is classy. People who wear suits like this are... well, rich, probably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take hat", "response": "The display clicks woefully, then displays: 0: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop hat", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in the hopper", "response": "black slacks: Wow - usually, it takes more than the single sip of wine you had to get you to remove your pants voluntarily. Let's just keep those on, shall we?\n\nslick shoes: Shoes like this are make for wearing! Actually, no they aren't, but the floor is dirty, and you're wearing your best pair of socks. Which is also your only pair of socks, at least until washing day.\n\ntux: As warm as it is in here, you opted for the front-only shirt.\nIt's probably better to keep your tux on.\n\ncrystal ball: The display clicks happily, then displays: 1: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\nwater pistol: The display clicks happily, then displays: 2: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\nbismuth crystal: The display clicks happily, then displays: 3: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\njar: The display clicks happily, then displays: 4: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\nleather arm guard: The display clicks happily, then displays: 5: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\noptical prism: The display clicks happily, then displays: 6: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\nbow and arrow charm: The display clicks happily, then displays: 7: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\nlump of labradorite: The display clicks happily, then displays: 8: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\ncanning jar lid: The display clicks happily, then displays: 9: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\nbowtie: The display clicks happily, then displays: 10: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\nbutton:\n(first taking the button)\nThe display clicks happily, then displays: 11: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET\n\ntop hat:\n(first taking the top hat)\nWith a sinking feeling in your heart, you realize what needs to go into the hopper. Sighing, you stare at your high silk hat, knowing that whatever this machine does, your hat will never be the same. After an emotional moment, you carefully put the hat into the hopper. The display clicks happily, then displays: READY", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "crystal ball: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\nwater pistol: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\nbismuth crystal: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\njar: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\nleather arm guard: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY You tug on the leather arm guard. It seems to be a bit stuck; you give a bit of a yank, and it comes free. With a creak, a ladder comes crashing onto the floor! It must have been stuck behind all that junk.\n\noptical prism: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\nbow and arrow charm: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\nlump of labradorite: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\ncanning jar lid: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\nbowtie: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\nbutton: The display clicks woefully, then displays: READY\n\ntop hat: The display clicks woefully, then displays: 0: REQUIREMENTS NOT MET", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the hat in hopper", "response": "With a sinking feeling in your heart, you realize what needs to go into the hopper. Sighing, you stare at your high silk hat, knowing that whatever this machine does, your hat will never be the same. After an emotional moment, you carefully put the hat into the hopper. The display clicks happily, then displays: READY", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelves", "response": "Though the shelves are stuffed with junk, they seem to be free of dust and grime. Scattered across the bottom shelves, among the junk, are a magnifying glass, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, a leather arm guard, and an optical prism. The jar contains silica beads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump a little, and land back where you started.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the top shelf", "response": "The top shelf is out of reach from the floor. And there is no way those shelves would support your weight. Just visible from the top shelf are a lump of labradorite and a bow and arrow charm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "The junk room is full of all sorts of odds and ends that no one could bring themselves to throw away. All sorts of things litter the shelves and the floor. The way you came in, an auto-locking door, has auto-locked, and won't unlock until morning. The only other exit leads out into the viewing room.\n\nYou see a crystal ball and an optical prism here. Scattered across the bottom shelves, among the junk, are a magnifying glass, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, a leather arm guard, and an optical prism. The jar contains silica beads. Just visible from the top shelf are a lump of labradorite and a bow and arrow charm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the arm guard", "response": "You tug on the leather arm guard. It seems to be a bit stuck; you give a bit of a yank, and it comes free. With a creak, a ladder comes crashing onto the floor! It must have been stuck behind all that junk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ladder on the top shelf", "response": "(first taking the ladder)\nThe top shelf is too far away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ladder on the shelf", "response": "(the bottom shelves)\nDone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the top shelf", "response": "Just visible from the top shelf are a lump of labradorite and a bow and arrow charm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lump", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bow", "response": "You take the bow and arrow charm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the top shelf", "response": "The top shelf is out of reach from the floor. And there is no way those shelves would support your weight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Junk room (standing on the ladder)\nThe junk room is full of all sorts of odds and ends that no one could bring themselves to throw away. All sorts of things litter the shelves and the floor. The way you came in, an auto-locking door, has auto-locked, and won't unlock until morning. The only other exit leads out into the viewing room.\n\nYou see a crystal ball, an optical prism, and a ladder here. Scattered across the bottom shelves, among the junk, are a magnifying glass, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, and an optical prism. The jar contains silica beads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search", "response": "What do you want to search?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the floor", "response": "On the floor are a crystal ball, an optical prism, and a ladder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the walls", "response": "west wall: You see nothing in the west wall.\neast wall: You see nothing in the east wall.\nnorth wall: You see nothing in the north wall.\nsouth wall: You see nothing in the south wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the ceiling", "response": "You see nothing in the ceiling.\n\nYou can't go that way. The only obvious exit leads out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelves", "response": "Though the shelves are stuffed with junk, they seem to be free of dust and grime. Scattered across the bottom shelves, among the junk, are a magnifying glass, a water pistol, a bismuth crystal, a jar, and an optical prism. The jar contains silica beads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the ladder", "response": "You're already standing on the ladder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Thanks for playing!", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "BDSM", "House", "unicorn", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 1, 1, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It is late afternoon, and the previously busy market place now has only a few stragglers trying to find last-minute bargains.\nYour stall is now devoid of all the home-grown delights that were piled on the table, and you are preparing to pack things away and return to your house.\nIt seems that Giles, next stall along, (for whom you have a secret fondness,) has also had a good day. He stands, with the last remaining apple tree sapling that he has left for sale.\nYou look shyly towards him, but all his attention is taken up gazing at Grace, the beautiful daughter of the local squire who approaches Giles' stall.\n\nHardly sparing a glance at the tree she throws some money at Giles' feet and instructs him to deliver it immediately to the Hall.\nShe sweeps away with a wiggle and a show of shapely leg below her\nsilk gown, and Giles trots along obediently behind her like a faithful dog.\n\nA fable owing much to Theodore Sturgeon, Thomas Hardy, and the film A Kid For Two Farthings.\n\nType \"examine me\" to discover who you are.\nType \"about\" to find out more about the game.\n\nThe market place has stalls arranged around its perimeter.\nThe north side of the square is bordered by the entrance gate and boundary wall of the Hall, the squire's residence.\nYour house is along the road to the east, and the dismal bogland trail leads to the west.\nThe southern road leads off to the big town many miles away which is far too distant to walk to.\n\nIt's the end of the day and there is little left to buy, and few people still browsing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine yourself", "response": "You are a hard-working girl, with mousey hair, a weathered face and labour-toughened hands. As someone once said of you - Marty's beauty is well-concealed.\nLike most of the villagers, your clothes are home made from coarse fabric. It may not be too comfortable, but it's what you are accustomed to. And there's no point in wishing to dress like those rich folks at the Hall - those silks and satins wouldn't last five minutes on the farm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stall", "response": "Wooden boards, resting on trestles, providing a trading area for the market.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gate", "response": "Two wrought iron entrance gates, locked with an iron bar, and surmounted by iron spikes are set in a six foot high brick wall topped with broken glass which makes an impregnable barrier to the casual visitor.\nYou can see the driveway curving off toward the house to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The pretty grassy track is bordered by thick hedges with many wild flowers growing in the verges.\nIt is only a couple of hundred yards long, connecting your cottage, hidden behind high hedges at the east end, to the market square westwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the flowers", "response": "They look much better in their natural setting, and will last far longer than in a vase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell flowers", "response": "Aah! Delightful. One of life's simple pleasures.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The end of the lane to your cottage, which is immediately to the east. Another cottage, Orchard Cot, owned by Giles, is up a short track to the south. The market square may be reached down the lane westwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cottage", "response": "The thatched roof is supported by thick walls made in the traditional manner from cob - straw and mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Your humble home. There is only this one room on the ground floor and a bedroom above to which stairs lead up.\nThe front door is to the west and the garden door to the east.\nThe only furnishings are extremely basic.\n\nEntering through the unlocked door, you see the familiar old furniture. It's not much, but it's your home.\nYou're tired after your day at the market, but the animals need feeding. You can hear the chickens clucking impatiently out back.\n\nYou can see a table (on which is a book), a cooker and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "It's about a young girl, a unicorn, and a magic pool. You've learned that unicorns will only appear to the pure.\nThere is a picture of a unicorn on the front cover - a magnificent beast with a gold mane and golden horn, silver hooves and a snow white body.\n\nWhere did the book come from? Probably given away by the people at the Hall when they'd finished with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine cooker", "response": "wood-burning stove, your only source of heat and means of cooking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take book", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Your humble home. There is only this one room on the ground floor and a bedroom above to which stairs lead up.\nThe front door is to the west and the garden door to the east.\nThe only furnishings are extremely basic.\n\nYou're tired after your day at the market, but the animals need feeding. You can hear the chickens clucking impatiently out back.\n\nYou can see a table, a cooker and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The typically untidy yard of a rural dwelling is full of chickens scratching at the ground.\nYour cottage is to the west and a small shed is to the south.\nThe goat's paddock has an entrance to the northwest.\nYou can see a billy goat, some chickens and a rooster here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the goat", "response": "Why you bought a billy no-one can explain, but you love the brute, and he seems to like you too, especially at feeding time. He has a pair of stubby horns which should not do you too much damage... unless he meant to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chickens", "response": "A motley collection of hens, mostly derbyshire redcaps, with one proud rooster who thinks he is in charge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the rooster", "response": "Bad-tempered brute who'll peck at you any time he gets the chance, but he does his duty as far as the hens are concerned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A small shed containing tubs of animal feed... ...which you immediately distribute to your waiting audience outside.\n\nYou can see some tubs of animal feed and a lead rein here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tubs", "response": "You make sure your stock is well fed, storing the foodstuff in these metal bins. They are nearly full right now, so don't rick your back trying to shift them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rein", "response": "It's like a long dog lead with collar attached, just the right size for Billy's neck. Lucky it's turned up now, that's been missing for months.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine", "response": "(the tubs of animal feed)\nYou make sure your stock is well fed, storing the foodstuff in these metal bins. They are nearly full right now, so don't rick your back trying to shift them.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A small shed containing tubs of animal feed...\nYou can see some tubs of animal feed here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feed the chickens", "response": "Whom do you want to feed the chickens to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chickens", "response": "A motley collection of hens, mostly derbyshire redcaps, with one proud rooster who thinks he is in charge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the animal feed", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nA small shed containing tubs of animal feed... ...which you\" immediately distribute to your waiting audience outside.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na lead rein\na book", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rein on the goat", "response": "The salient characteristic of goats is their stubbornness, and Billy wants nothing to do with this game. The only place you can go with him is the paddock, so it's hardly worth trying, is it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "A grassy area for the goat to forage, though he's always in the back yard at feeding time.\nIt stretches northwest to the boundary of the grounds of the Hall, the side wall of which abuts it.\nThe open gateway to your yard is at the east side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The northwest corner of your paddock. The Hall is just the other side of the wall. A first floor balcony is visible above you, but nothing can be seen above the parapet except the top of a double paned window set back into the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "Panes of glass to let in daylight. Not the product of the Microsoft corporation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the balcony", "response": "It's what's known as a belvedere - the balcony doesn't project but is flush with the wall. It only has brickwork eighteen inches high at the base, so it'd be easy enough to fall out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wall", "response": "The six foot high wall with broken glass stuck to the top surface surrounds the entire property.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Your humble home. There is only this one room on the ground floor and a bedroom above to which stairs lead up.\nThe front door is to the west and the garden door to the east.\nThe only furnishings are extremely basic.\n\nYou really must get a bit of shut-eye!\n\nYou can see a table, a cooker and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "Nestling under the eaves, there's nothing much of interest here except the bed.\n\nYou can see a bed here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie in the bed", "response": "You get onto the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "After a well-deserved night's slumber, you awake refreshed at dawn to the cock's crow.\nAnother day, and as usual, the first thing to do is sort the animals out.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Bedroom (on the bed)\nNestling under the eaves, there's nothing much of interest here except the bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the bed.\n\nNestling under the eaves, there's nothing much of interest here except the bed.\n\nYou can see a bed here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the eaves", "response": "The thatched roof is supported by thick walls made in the traditional manner from cob - straw and mud.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "Your humble home. There is only this one room on the ground floor and a bedroom above to which stairs lead up.\nThe front door is to the west and the garden door to the east.\nThe only furnishings are extremely basic.\n\nThose animals are hungry again - listen to the noise!\n\nYou can see a table, a cooker and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The typically untidy yard of a rural dwelling is full of chickens scratching at the ground.\nYour cottage is to the west and a small shed is to the south.\nThe goat's paddock has an entrance to the northwest. ... but Billy's not here!\nYou'd better try to find the brute.\nI'd guess if he's not in the paddock, he may have nipped across the lane to Giles' place.\n\nYou can see some chickens and a rooster here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A small shed containing tubs of animal feed... ...which you immediately distribute to your waiting audience outside.\n\nYou can see some tubs of animal feed here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "A grassy area for the goat to forage, though he's always in the back yard at feeding time.\nIt stretches northwest to the boundary of the grounds of the Hall, the side wall of which abuts it.\nThe open gateway to your yard is at the east side.\n\nYou can see a gap in the hedge bordering Bluebell Lane where the goat made his getaway - unfortunately you'd cut yourself to ribbons on the hawthorn if you tried going that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Your humble home. There is only this one room on the ground floor and a bedroom above to which stairs lead up.\nThe front door is to the west and the garden door to the east.\nThe only furnishings are extremely basic.\n\nYou can see a table, a cooker and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The end of the lane to your cottage, which is immediately to the east. Another cottage, Orchard Cot, owned by Giles, is up a short track to the south. The market square may be reached down the lane westwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The furnishings are as basic as your own cottage.\nYou search the place, calling for Giles, but there is no reply. Where on earth can he be?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The pretty grassy track is bordered by thick hedges with many wild flowers growing in the verges.\nIt is only a couple of hundred yards long, connecting your cottage, hidden behind high hedges at the east end, to the market square westwards.\nThere is damage to the northern hedge where something has forced its way through, and cloven hoof prints lead west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hedge", "response": "Spiky hawthorn, interspersed with brambles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You can go only east or west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the prints", "response": "The woodcraft you've learned from a very early age allows you to identify them as fairly freshly made goat tracks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The market place has stalls arranged around its perimeter.\nThe north side of the square is bordered by the entrance gate and boundary wall of the Hall, the squire's residence.\nYour house is along the road to the east, and the dismal bogland trail leads to the west.\nThe southern road leads off to the big town many miles away which is far too distant to walk to.\n\nThe square's now almost deserted, the day after the market, and early in the morning as it is. Only old Ned and Jake are here now, leaning on the wall and discussing life, the universe and current livestock prices. You see Jake chuckling and nudging Ned as he gestures toward the Hall. Giles name is mentioned, and Jake gives you a quizzical look.\nYou can see Old Ned and Jake here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask old Ned about billy goat", "response": "Oh aar! He went off into yonder bog. I reckon he's a goner - nothing comes back once they bin scrandled in them swamps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Jake about Giles", "response": "Reckon the lucky beggar's been at it all night with racy Gracie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The flowery lane soon degenerates into a dank track through a series of foul-smelling bogs as you move westward. But it's always been this way, and the solitude can sometimes be a comfort.\nYou can continue westwards deeper into the swamp, or return to the village eastwards. There are cloven hoof prints leading west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The bogs encroach on this spot from all directions except for the narrow track eastwards. Strange you've never noticed this delightful spot before now. Yes! You've found that beast. Now all you have to do is get him home.\nYou can see a billy goat and a clear pool here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pool", "response": "Amid all the brackish muddy swamps this pool is perfectly clear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink pool", "response": "You take a tentative sip, and when you find the taste is wonderfully sweet, drink your fill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are a hard-working girl, with mousey hair, a weathered face and labour-toughened hands. As someone once said of you - Marty's beauty is well-concealed.\nLike most of the villagers, your clothes are home made from coarse fabric. It may not be too comfortable, but it's what you are accustomed to. And there's no point in wishing to dress like those rich folks at the Hall - those silks and satins wouldn't last five minutes on the farm.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The bogs encroach on this spot from all directions except for the narrow track eastwards.\nYou can see a billy goat and a clear pool here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bogs", "response": "Not somewhere you'd want to wander into. There are old tales of even horses being swallowed up in the local bogs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The flowery lane soon degenerates into a dank track through a series of foul-smelling bogs as you move westward. But it's always been this way, and the solitude can sometimes be a comfort.\nYou can continue westwards deeper into the swamp, or return to the village eastwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The market place has stalls arranged around its perimeter.\nThe north side of the square is bordered by the entrance gate and boundary wall of the Hall, the squire's residence.\nYour house is along the road to the east, and the dismal bogland trail leads to the west.\nThe southern road leads off to the big town many miles away which is far too distant to walk to.\n\nThe square's now almost deserted, the day after the market, and early in the morning as it is. Only old Ned and Jake are here now, leaning on the wall and discussing life, the universe and current livestock prices.\nYou can see Old Ned and Jake here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask old Ned about Grace", "response": "Aar, but them aristocrats is a law unto 'emselves. I'd keep well clear if I were you, young 'un.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Jake about Grace", "response": "They say she's into all this sad-ism with whips and chains and such. Fancy me tying you to a bed and giving you what for?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Jake about Hall", "response": "I'll tell you this much. It's only that Gracie who's home at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The gate is firmly locked, and even were you that athletic, you'd cut yourself to ribbons on those sharp shards on top of the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Jake about the gate", "response": "I reckon, if you could hoopla one of those spikes on the top, you might be able to haul yourself over. I'll help you if you don't mind me looking up your skirt at the same time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "It's much too far to walk. You'd better wait in the village until you can get a lift... and vehicles are very few and far between.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The pretty grassy track is bordered by thick hedges with many wild flowers growing in the verges.\nIt is only a couple of hundred yards long, connecting your cottage, hidden behind high hedges at the east end, to the market square westwards.\nThere is damage to the northern hedge where something has forced its way through, and cloven hoof prints lead west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The end of the lane to your cottage, which is immediately to the east. Another cottage, Orchard Cot, owned by Giles, is up a short track to the south. The market square may be reached down the lane westwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Your humble home. There is only this one room on the ground floor and a bedroom above to which stairs lead up.\nThe front door is to the west and the garden door to the east.\nThe only furnishings are extremely basic.\n\nYou can see a table, a cooker and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the chair", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The typically untidy yard of a rural dwelling is full of chickens scratching at the ground.\nYour cottage is to the west and a small shed is to the south.\nThe goat's paddock has an entrance to the northwest.\nYou can see some chickens and a rooster here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the chair", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the chair", "response": "You get onto the chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You'll have to get off the chair first.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "By Hall Side-wall (on the chair)\nThe northwest corner of your paddock. The Hall is just the other side of the wall. A first floor balcony is visible above you, but nothing can be seen above the parapet except the top of a double paned window set back into the house.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the chair.\n\nThe northwest corner of your paddock. The Hall is just the other side of the wall. A first floor balcony is visible above you, but nothing can be seen above the parapet except the top of a double paned window set back into the house.\n\nYou can see a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Your humble home. There is only this one room on the ground floor and a bedroom above to which stairs lead up.\nThe front door is to the west and the garden door to the east.\nThe only furnishings are extremely basic.\n\nYou can see a table and a cooker here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the chair", "response": "Jake has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the chair", "response": "You get onto the chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You'll have to get off the chair first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "You get off the chair.\n\nThe market place has stalls arranged around its perimeter.\nThe north side of the square is bordered by the entrance gate and boundary wall of the Hall, the squire's residence.\nYour house is along the road to the east, and the dismal bogland trail leads to the west.\nThe southern road leads off to the big town many miles away which is far too distant to walk to.\n\nThe square's now almost deserted, the day after the market, and early in the morning as it is. Only old Ned and Jake are here now, leaning on the wall and discussing life, the universe and current livestock prices.\nYou can see a chair, Old Ned and Jake here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spikes", "response": "Two wrought iron entrance gates, locked with an iron bar, and surmounted by iron spikes are set in a six foot high brick wall topped with broken glass which makes an impregnable barrier to the casual visitor.\nYou can see the driveway curving off toward the house to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine bar", "response": "A thick iron strut locked in place by a padlock at either end.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The market place has stalls arranged around its perimeter.\nThe north side of the square is bordered by the entrance gate and boundary wall of the Hall, the squire's residence.\nYour house is along the road to the east, and the dismal bogland trail leads to the west.\nThe southern road leads off to the big town many miles away which is far too distant to walk to.\n\nThe square's now almost deserted, the day after the market, and early in the morning as it is. Only old Ned and Jake are here now, leaning on the wall and discussing life, the universe and current livestock prices.\nYou can see a chair, Old Ned and Jake here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the chair on the spikes", "response": "You put the chair on the wall surrounding the Hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the chair", "response": "(getting onto the wall surrounding the Hall)\n\nThat's not something you can stand on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put rein on the spikes", "response": "You put the lead rein on the wall surrounding the Hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb rein", "response": "The rein is only the tool. Try CLIMB MOUNTAIN or whatever it's attached to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the gate", "response": "With some support from Jake you haul yourself up the lead rein, giving him the view he desired, and retrieving the rein as you go, drop down into the grounds of the Hall.\n\nThe beautifully manicured lawns stretch off to either side of the tarmac drive which runs northeast to the Hall. The gates to the south will be unclimbable without the help you obtained earlier.\n\nOn the wall surrounding the Hall is a chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lawns", "response": "Exquisitely tended gardens in the style of Calamity Jane... er... I mean Capability Brown, somewhat spoiled by the \"Keep off the grass\" signs bordering the driveway.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The beautifully manicured lawns stretch off to either side of the tarmac drive which runs northeast to the Hall. The gates to the south will be unclimbable without the help you obtained earlier.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You remember from a visit once as a child, when your mother worked in the hall, that the ground floor is mainly the servants quarters and kitchen etc, and that the servants kept themselves strictly apart from their masters. And out of sight as much as possible, so wandering around this level should be fairly safe, but not likely to be very productive... but one never can tell...\nAnd what's that door to the south? Ah, you obviously weren't allowed in there as a kid.\n\nA corridor leading to the kitchen is to the east. An ornate staircase winds upwards, blocking off northward access from this point, and a fancy doorway is to the south. The whole place is very gloomy with oak-panelled walls and a few portraits of singularly unattractive ancestors of the present incumbents.\nYou may exit the building westwards.\nYou can see some portraits here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The entrance hall is westwards, and the kitchen immediately to the east. There is a door to the north leading to the servants' quarters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "A plain wooden door with a paper sign attached to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sign", "response": "Scrawled capital letters make the meaning quite clear. It's glued to the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "All the equipment you'd expect to find in a large kitchen. Everything is neatly put away, and the only utensils in plain view is a rack of kitchen knives. The eastern wall, containing the only window has much of its light blocked out by the wall that surrounds the property, and which you have met before. The door is back to the west.\n\nYou can see a knife Rack (on which is a carving knife) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine knife", "response": "Of the rack full of sharp bone-handled blades, a long carving knife takes your fancy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "Panes of glass to let in daylight. Not the product of the Microsoft corporation.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "All the equipment you'd expect to find in a large kitchen. Everything is neatly put away, and the only utensils in plain view is a rack of kitchen knives. The eastern wall, containing the only window has much of its light blocked out by the wall that surrounds the property, and which you have met before. The door is back to the west.\n\nYou can see a knife Rack here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Rack", "response": "A wooden container attached to the south wall holding a selection of knives for use in food preparation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The entrance hall is westwards, and the kitchen immediately to the east. There is a door to the north leading to the servants' quarters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "A corridor leading to the kitchen is to the east. An ornate staircase winds upwards, blocking off northward access from this point, and a fancy doorway is to the south. The whole place is very gloomy with oak-panelled walls and a few portraits of singularly unattractive ancestors of the present incumbents.\nYou may exit the building westwards.\nYou can see some portraits here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A cavernous expanse of polished wood flooring, with a stage at the further end. Despite the many windows the place still gives the impression of gloom. Maybe going south to the stage would let you have a better look at the objects you can see there in that, the gloomiest part of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Area for musicians to play. An enormous grand piano stands here, as do a couple of old music stands.\n\nYou can see a grand piano and a music stand here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the piano", "response": "I believe it's a Broadwood. Anyway, the castors have seized up and it's immovable. The keyboard lid is down and locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stand", "response": "A vertical metal pole about four feet high with a tripod base and an open metal square at the top intended to support sheet music.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "You're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na carving knife\na chair\na lead rein\na book", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the book on the stand", "response": "You put the book on the music stand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na music stand\na book\na carving knife\na chair\na lead rein", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Area for musicians to play. An enormous grand piano stands here, as do a couple of old music stands.\n\nYou can see a grand piano here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A cavernous expanse of polished wood flooring, with a stage at the further end. Despite the many windows the place still gives the impression of gloom. Maybe going south to the stage would let you have a better look at the objects you can see there in that, the gloomiest part of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A corridor leading to the kitchen is to the east. An ornate staircase winds upwards, blocking off northward access from this point, and a fancy doorway is to the south. The whole place is very gloomy with oak-panelled walls and a few portraits of singularly unattractive ancestors of the present incumbents.\nYou may exit the building westwards.\nYou can see some portraits here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the staircase", "response": "Solid wooden staircase in the grand style, wide enough to drive a coach and horses down. The newel posts are surmounted by the heads of lions, which would bring a painful conclusion to any attempt at sliding down the banisters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "A dim area, only lit by a skylight high above, which even your trusty lead rein would not allow you to reach. There are doorways northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest. A corridor leading south seems disused and is blocked by a wooden partition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the partition", "response": "A collection of ancient heavy furniture, presumably unwanted but with nowhere else to store it. It is impassable and any disturbance of it would surely create quite a din.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine skylight", "response": "A dirty glass panel in the roof, providing a minimal amount of illumination to filter down to this enclosed point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the heads", "response": "Hunting trophies. It was the mission of old aristocrats to go off to find endangered species and try to finish off the endangering with extinction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "You've seen all those old movies about Henry VIII, the sheriff of Nottingham and so on - it's one of those.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chairs", "response": "Enormous old oak chairs. Even if you could haul your own little chair around, there's no way of moving these more than a foot or two.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You can go only southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "A dim area, only lit by a skylight high above, which even your trusty lead rein would not allow you to reach. There are doorways northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest. A corridor leading south seems disused and is blocked by a wooden partition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "In front of a heavy wooden door with brass handle - a curved lever rather than a knob. The door opens into a room to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "There's a lock, but no key, so securing it won't be easy, assuming you want to. But maybe you could do something with the handle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You'll have to open the door first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You quietly open the door revealing Grace's bedroom.\nCorny as it may seem, she really does have a big four-poster bed which dominates the room to the exclusion of everything else.\nGrace is asleep on the silken coverlet now, a riding crop held in one hand, and a double barrelled shotgun lying alongside her.\nLet sleeping bitches lie!\nYou softly close the door and retreat to the upstairs landing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na music stand\na book\na carving knife\na chair\na lead rein", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the chair on the handle", "response": "You put the chair on the closed door.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "In front of a heavy wooden door with brass handle - a curved lever rather than a knob. The door opens into a room to the northwest.\n\nOn the closed door is a chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rein on the door", "response": "You attach the rein to the door handle. Good idea, but there's nowhere to tie the other end to hold it shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the rein to the music stand", "response": "Try putting it on that thing, rather than tying it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the rein on the stand", "response": "You lack the dexterity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stand on the door", "response": "You thread the handle of the door through the frame of the stand. By extreme good fortune you can wedge the music stand across the door frame to prevent it opening. It's not a very strong \"locking bar\" but it ought to give you a bit of time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rein", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na chair\na carving knife\na lead rein", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "In front of a heavy wooden door with brass handle - a curved lever rather than a knob. The door opens into a room to the northwest.\n\nOn the closed door is a music stand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "There's surprisingly little here in the way of furniture. The east wall has french windows leading to a small balcony or belvedere. The naked form of Giles is strapped to the bed. He has red welts on his back, and signs of bruising. He is attached by leather thongs at hand and foot to the bed.\nAs he hears the door open, Giles groans and you can see him flinch, but when he realises it's you he relaxes.\n\"Oh Marty, thank heaven. Please help me...\"\n\nYou can see a narrow bed (on which is Giles) and some clothing belonging to Giles here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Giles", "response": "A local smallholder as hard-working as yourself. You have long harboured a secret love for the man, who is as weather-beaten and down-to-earth as yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss giles", "response": "Ooh that was wonderful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the thong", "response": "You make short work of releasing the bonds, and Giles staggers to his feet smiling through his pain. Then realising his situation, blushes and dons his clothing.\nHe declares he'll never let you out of his sight again.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "There's surprisingly little here in the way of furniture. The east wall has french windows leading to a small balcony or belvedere.\nYou can see Giles and a narrow bed here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "Old fashioned iron single bed with iron rings fitted around the periphery through which thongs of leather are threaded. Maybe the family once boasted its own idiot and had to keep him sedated in this primitive manner. The headboard supports rise a few inches above this board. These bedposts are capped by moulded monkey heads.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "A dim area, only lit by a skylight high above, which even your trusty lead rein would not allow you to reach. There are doorways northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest. A corridor leading south seems disused and is blocked by a wooden partition.\n\nYou can see Giles here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "This is obviously the sleeping area for the master and mistress of the Hall, now somewhere abroad. The double bed is flanked by two bedside cabinets, and on one wall is an enlarged photograph of the Melbury family. The exit is northeast.\n\nYou can see Giles and a bedside cabinet (on which is Melbury's tome) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read tome", "response": "The Collected Works of the Marquis de Sade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Giles about Grace", "response": "Yeah, I'm a fool. Should have known when she came on so strong... gave me a drink... must have had laudanum or something in it. Next thing I know I'm flat on that bed and she's beatin' the daylights out of me with that riding crop of hers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Giles about Melbury", "response": "Grace comes storming out of her room and blasts you with the shotgun. In a later interview she claimed that she was only defending herself against a couple of burglars, one of whom had been carrying a lethal knife.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "A sort of recessed balcony accessed through french windows from the blue room. It overlooks the northwest end of Bluebell Cottage's paddock; and indeed is practically on the boundary line, the notorious glass-topped wall being visible directly below if you look over the eighteen inch high parapet.\n\nYou can see Giles here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "Jump from here? You'd break your neck, or cut yourself to ribbons.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na book\na chair\na carving knife\na lead rein", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the parapet", "response": "the balcony.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Grace comes storming out of her room and blasts you with the shotgun. In a later interview she claimed that she was only defending herself against a couple of burglars, one of whom had been carrying a lethal knife.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You can go only west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tie lead to bed", "response": "Please give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the lead on the bed", "response": "You put the lead rein on the narrow bed.\nIt's tricky, but you sling the rein over the parapet and scramble down on the far side of the wall. Giles follows. It's a good job you both wore those heavy work boots to protect your feet from that glass on the top of the wall.\n\nThe northwest corner of your paddock. The Hall is just the other side of the wall. A first floor balcony is visible above you, but nothing can be seen above the parapet except the top of a double paned window set back into the house.\nAs you make a run for it across the field, Grace appears on the balcony and lets off both barrels of her shotgun. Luckily she is not a good shot. In frustration she hurls the lead rein after you, which you retrieve before she can reload.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "A grassy area for the goat to forage, though he's always in the back yard at feeding time.\nIt stretches northwest to the boundary of the grounds of the Hall, the side wall of which abuts it.\nThe open gateway to your yard is at the east side.\n\nYou can see Giles here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The typically untidy yard of a rural dwelling is full of chickens scratching at the ground.\nYour cottage is to the west and a small shed is to the south.\nThe goat's paddock has an entrance to the northwest.\nYou can see Giles, some chickens and a rooster here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Your humble home. There is only this one room on the ground floor and a bedroom above to which stairs lead up.\nThe front door is to the west and the garden door to the east.\nThe only furnishings are extremely basic.\n\nYou can see Giles, a table and a cooker here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The end of the lane to your cottage, which is immediately to the east. Another cottage, Orchard Cot, owned by Giles, is up a short track to the south. The market square may be reached down the lane westwards.\n\nYou can see Giles here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The pretty grassy track is bordered by thick hedges with many wild flowers growing in the verges.\nIt is only a couple of hundred yards long, connecting your cottage, hidden behind high hedges at the east end, to the market square westwards.\nThere is damage to the northern hedge where something has forced its way through, and cloven hoof prints lead west.\n\nYou can see Giles here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The market place has stalls arranged around its perimeter.\nThe north side of the square is bordered by the entrance gate and boundary wall of the Hall, the squire's residence.\nYour house is along the road to the east, and the dismal bogland trail leads to the west.\nThe southern road leads off to the big town many miles away which is far too distant to walk to.\nThere's no-one here at all now. Ned and Jake have gone about their business and most of the town has yet to venture abroad.\n\nYou can see Giles here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The flowery lane soon degenerates into a dank track through a series of foul-smelling bogs as you move westward. But it's always been this way, and the solitude can sometimes be a comfort.\nYou can continue westwards deeper into the swamp, or return to the village eastwards.\nYou can see Giles here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bogs encroach on this spot from all directions except for the narrow track eastwards.\nYou can see Giles, a billy goat and a clear pool here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss giles", "response": "Ooh that was wonderful.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "RPG" ]

[ "combat", "cover art", "fantasy", "gender-neutral protagonist", "goblins", "money", "orcs", "parser", "Parsercomp 2021", "present tense", "Random Combat", "randomized", "rpg", "second person", "violence" ]

[ 0, 7, 1, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You're having your usual evening drink in the Ruffled Feather when you happen to fall into conversation with a tough old dwarf. He seems to know many tales about the nearby lands.\n\n\"Ah!\" he cries. \"You don't know the legend of Black Knife Dungeon? I will tell you!\" He launches into a meandering story with a lot of digressions, and it's hard to follow the thread. You're able to glean that there is (supposedly) a valuable relic buried deep inside the dungeon. Eventually he starts to nod. \"A steadfast adventurer may find it,\" he murmurs, \"but first, seek Blornang's Hall.\" With that, his head falls on the table, cushioned slightly by a coaster.\n\nHmm. Maybe this is worth looking into. You are an adventurer, after all.\n\nPress SPACE.\nBlack Knife Dungeon\n\nSpecial thanks to Andy Fleming, Lorne Harris, Hall Hood, Isaac Orf, Luke Pebler, Andrew Schultz, and Mike Spivey for testing, and to Nadia Bellazola for cover art.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 1 adventurer. You're equipped with a run-of-the-mill sword and light leather armor.\n\nYou have no money.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tips", "response": "*1. General Adventuring\n*2. Leveling\n*3. The Tavern\n\n(To read a tip, type TIP [number].)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tip 1", "response": "When you enter a room in the dungeon, you can choose to FIGHT (F) the monster there, or you can just CONTINUE (C) your exploration. It may take multiple rounds to defeat a monster. If you defeat it, you then have the option to SEARCH (SE) the room.\n\nWhen you fight, you will usually lose some hit points. (Hit points are shown in the upper right.) When you run out, the adventure's over. You can leave earlier by typing GO HOME (or just HOME). If you leave before running out of hit points, you'll get a small loot bonus.\n\nNote: Adventuring isn't free! You have to pay for provisions,\nhealing, and so on. Adventuring costs are paid at the end of each adventure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tip 2", "response": "To explore deeper into the dungeon, you'll need to level up by accomplishing your level goals. Type GOALS to see how you're doing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tip 3", "response": "When you visit the Ruffled Feather and TALK, you will sometimes receive an important tip. Check in at the tavern frequently!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You're standing in the Overville town square. You can see Robard's equipment shop to the north and Varnthlorian's magic shop to the west. Overville's most popular tavern, the Ruffled Feather, stands to the east. You can start an ADVENTURE to Black Knife Dungeon at any time. You can also check your GOALS, your TIPS, or your LOG. Type HELP for command details.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant. When you arrive, you take a deep breath and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the head with its club.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the head with its club.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the shoulder with its club.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under a pile of rags you find a bronze bowl worth 2 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#1):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 4 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 3 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in the Ruffled Feather, the most popular gathering place in Overville. Most of the tables are filled with patrons chatting and drinking. You can TALK with them if you want. The wait staff hurry back and forth to the bar. The exit is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "A middle-aged adventurer tells you, \"Did you know there are two varieties of each monster? They can be normal or tough.\nThe tough ones take a lot longer to kill, and a beginning adventurer should just skip them. Luckily, you can tell them apart. For example, pay attention to the eyes of skeletons.\"\n\n(New tip added!)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goals", "response": "- Discover Blornang's Hall\n- Defeat 5 monsters on one adventure\n- Buy a tabard", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got a decent SWORD. Better than average, I'd say. Good for adventures. Price is 15 crowns.\n\n\"I also have some leather ARMOR. A little sturdier than what you're wearing. You can have it for 20 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a fine TABARD. All adventurers should wear one, shows people you mean business. Yours for 25 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "Robard says, \"Hello there!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You notice a sign next to the door: \"Patrons must be Level 2.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a crypt.\n\nA rootling emerges from the shadows. It looks like a vaguely humanoid mass of vines, twigs, and small leaves. It creaks eerily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bowl worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 1 adventurer. You're equipped with a run-of-the-mill sword and light leather armor.\n\nYou have 3 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\nTotal value: 2 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#2):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 2 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 1 crown", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goals", "response": "- Discover Blornang's Hall\n- Defeat 5 monsters on one adventure\n- Buy a tabard", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor, carefully avoiding a pit. You kick open a wooden door and enter an ancient shrine.\n\nA skeleton turns around to face you. Its eye sockets glow with a dim red light. It holds a rusty mace and a worn shield.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the skeleton with your sword. It counters and pounds you with its mace.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The skeleton thumps you in the shoulder with its mace. You land a couple of swift strokes.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The skeleton hits your chest with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its spine. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#3):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 2 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 1 crown", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a bare chamber.\n\nA goblin jumps up and shouts, \"Yar!\" It has long arms and a perpetual scowl. It wears a tattered loincloth and wields a wooden club.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#4):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 3 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 2 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You walk through a doorway into an abandoned storeroom.\n\nA rootling emerges from the shadows. It looks like a vaguely humanoid mass of vines, twigs, and shiny green leaves. It creaks eerily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bowl worth 1 crown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. At the bottom of a barrel you find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#5):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bowl (1 crown)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 6 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 5 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You walk through a doorway into a bare chamber.\n\nA goblin jumps up and shouts, \"Blorg!\" It has long arms and a perpetual scowl. It wears a tattered loincloth and wields a wooden club.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#6):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 2 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 1 crown", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a narrow passage. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a natural cave.\n\nA giant rat leaps into view. It must be three feet long, not counting the tail. Its brown fur bristles, and it glares at you with fierce beady eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat leaps up and bites your arm. You throw it off and stab with your sword, wounding it.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You spend some time searching the cave carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#7):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (3 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 3 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 2 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 1 adventurer. You're equipped with a run-of-the-mill sword and light leather armor.\n\nYou have 15 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the sword", "response": "You buy the sword. It's definitely better than what you started with. You should be able to dispatch monsters a little more quickly now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You fall into conversation with another adventurer. \"I've always noticed something about the different kinds of rooms in dungeons. Some of them tend to have treasures, and others tend to have traps. If you're going to search them, I recommend treasures over traps.\"\n\n(New tip added!)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tips", "response": "1. General Adventuring\n2. Leveling\n3. The Tavern\n*4. Monster Varieties\n*5. Searching\n\n(To read a tip, type TIP [number].)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tip 4", "response": "Most monsters come in two varieties: normal and tough.\nIt's significantly harder to defeat the tough variety. You can tell them apart by their appearance. (For example, normal skeletons have blue eyes, but tough skeletons have red eyes.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tip 5", "response": "Some types of locations tend to have extra loot, but others tend to have traps. (For example, it can be rewarding to search crypts, but it's a bad idea to search torture rooms.)\n\nNote: Every time you SEARCH or CONTINUE, a bit of your\nadventuring time elapses. If you run out of time, you'll have to go home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You kick open an iron door and enter a bare chamber.\n\nA rootling emerges from the shadows. It looks like a vaguely humanoid mass of vines, twigs, and shiny green leaves. It creaks eerily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#8):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 2 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 1 crown", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You come to a bare chamber.\n\nA giant rat leaps into view. It must be three feet long, not counting the tail. Its wiry black fur bristles, and it glares at you with fierce beady eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You swipe at the rat, drawing blood. It charges at you and bites into your leg. Ouch!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You swipe at the rat, drawing blood. It charges at you and bites into your leg. Ouch!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 1 crown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#9):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\n\nLoot value: 1 crown\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 0 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You come to a ledge, and drop down into an abandoned storeroom.\n\nA giant rat leaps into view. It must be three feet long, not counting the tail. Its wiry black fur bristles, and it glares at you with fierce beady eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the shoulder with its club.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the shoulder with its club.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bowl worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. Inside an ancient vase you find a pouch of bronze coins worth 1 crown!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#10):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 6 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 5 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is gray and cloudy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You walk through a doorway into an ancient shrine.\n\nA skeleton turns around to face you. Its eye sockets glow with a dim red light. It holds a rusty mace and a worn shield.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You swipe at the rat, drawing blood. It charges at you and bites into your leg. Ouch!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You swipe at the rat, drawing blood. It charges at you and bites into your leg. Ouch!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 1 crown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You spend some time searching the cave carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#11):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\n\nLoot value: 3 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 2 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a narrow passage. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a crypt.\n\nA skeleton turns around to face you. Its eye sockets glow with a dim red light. It holds a rusty mace and a worn shield.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its leg.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its arm.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 1 crown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. As you poke around the altar, a small opening puffs out some poison gas! You cough uncontrollably.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)\n\nYou find nothing else of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#12):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\n\nLoot value: 1 crown\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 0 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "A mysterious person in a wide-brimmed black hat calls you over. He asks if you know any secret entrances into the city of Horgalon. You regret that you're unable to help him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a sloping passage, working your way around a pile of rubble. You walk through a doorway into a torture room.\n\nA goblin jumps up and shouts, \"Blorg!\" It has long arms and a perpetual scowl. It wears a tattered loincloth and wields a wooden club.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. At one point a sharp implement falls over, cutting you!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)\n\nYou find nothing else of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#13):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 4 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 3 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You walk through a doorway into an ancient shrine.\n\nA skeleton turns around to face you. Its eye sockets glow with a dim blue light. It holds a rusty mace and a worn shield.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton hits your head with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its arm. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "Before the goblin can react, you give it a precise stab and kill it!\n\n(Lucky strike!)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 2 crowns.\n\n{ Goal completed! (Defeat 5 monsters on one adventure) }", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#14):\n\nYou defeated 5 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 13 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 12 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in the Ruffled Feather, the most popular gathering place in Overville. Most of the tables are filled with patrons chatting and drinking. You can TALK with them if you want. The wait staff hurry back and forth to the bar. The exit is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You chat with Ruilla Mongor, a lady who runs a general store in another part of town. She says business is good right now, but she fears it may not last.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goals", "response": "- Discover Blornang's Hall\nX - Defeat 5 monsters on one adventure\n- Buy a tabard", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You kick open an iron door and enter a natural cave.\n\nA serpent slithers toward you. It must be at least 15 feet long. It's green and knobbly, and it gazes at you with unblinking eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You give the serpent a shallow cut with your sword. It bites your sword arm.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You give the serpent a shallow cut with your sword. It bites your sword arm.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The serpent gives you a nasty bite. You respond with a powerful stroke and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the serpent.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#15):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 2 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 1 crown", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 1 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and light leather armor.\n\nYou have 24 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You walk through a doorway into a natural cave.\n\nA skeleton turns around to face you. Its eye sockets glow with a dim blue light. It holds a rusty mace and a worn shield.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton hits your shoulder with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its spine. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 1 crown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under a pile of rags you find a bronze bowl worth 1 crown!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#16):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\nbronze bowl (1 crown)\n\nLoot value: 4 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 3 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got some leather ARMOR. A little sturdier than what you're wearing. You can have it for 20 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a fine TABARD. All adventurers should wear one, shows people you mean business. Yours for 25 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy TABARD", "response": "You buy the tabard. It looks good!\n\n{ Goal completed! (Buy a tabard) }", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You sit down with a group of clerks from the nearby city of Horgalon. They tell a lot of paperwork jokes. You have a hard time picking up on the humor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a crypt.\n\nA serpent slithers toward you. It must be at least 15 feet long. It's green and knobbly, and it gazes at you with unblinking eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#17):\n\nYou defeated 0 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected: none\n\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal loss: (1 crown)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You come to a ledge, and drop down into an abandoned storeroom.\n\nA serpent slithers toward you. It must be at least 15 feet long. It's green and knobbly, and it gazes at you with unblinking eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tip", "response": "1. General Adventuring\n2. Leveling\n3. The Tavern\n4. Monster Varieties\n5. Searching\n\n(To read a tip, type TIP [number].)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tip 5", "response": "Some types of locations tend to have extra loot, but others tend to have traps. (For example, it can be rewarding to search crypts, but it's a bad idea to search torture rooms.)\n\nNote: Every time you SEARCH or CONTINUE, a bit of your\nadventuring time elapses. If you run out of time, you'll have to go home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nBlornang's Hall! It looks like it's not too far from here.\n\n(Story updated.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#18):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 4 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 3 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Story", "response": "One evening in the Ruffled Feather, a strange old dwarf told you a legend about Black Knife Dungeon. There's supposed to be some kind of valuable relic deep inside. \"But first, seek Blornang's Hall,\" the dwarf said before falling asleep on the table.\n\nYou found a map showing the way to to Blornang's Hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Log", "response": "Monsters defeated: 5\nLoot collected: 13 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 1\nLoot collected: 2 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 2\nLoot collected: 4 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 0\nLoot collected: 0 crowns\n(Don't tell your friends about this one.)\n\nMonsters defeated: 2\nLoot collected: 4 crowns\n\nTotal monsters defeated: 25\nMost monsters defeated on one adventure: 5\nTotal lucky strikes: 1\nTotal loot collected: 62 crowns\nTotal adventuring costs: 18 crowns", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Bestiary", "response": "1. Skeleton (3 defeated)\n2. Giant Rat (8 defeated)\n3. Goblin (9 defeated)\n4. Serpent (1 defeated)\n5. Rootling (4 defeated)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 5", "response": "5. Rootling\n\n(Level 1 Oddity)\n\nRootlings are often found in dungeons, but their origin is unknown. Their plantlike nature makes them susceptible to extreme temperatures. Adventurers should watch out for their thorns.\n\n\"Plants should stay in the ground where they belong.\" —Philipus Cringe", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 4", "response": "4. Serpent\n\n(Level 1 Animal)\n\nSerpents can be found in many different environs. Their sudden, venomous attacks should not be underestimated.\n\n\"They make fine handbags.\" —Rita Undercorbit", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 3", "response": "3. Goblin\n\n(Level 1 Humanoid)\n\nGoblins are nasty little creatures known for clobbering adventurers and taking their stuff. They don't wear much, even when it's cold.\n\n\"Why do the dumb ones always fight with clubs?\" —Ginswick\nRemardy", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 2", "response": "2. Giant Rat\n\n(Level 1 Animal)\n\nGiant rats are usually found in dark dungeons and ruins. Their quick attacks have overcome many an adventurer.\n\n\"What we need is more giant cats.\" —Erdis Roughsitter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 1", "response": "1. Skeleton\n\n(Level 1 Undead)\n\nSkeletons have been animated by strange Dormedian magic. They are generally equipped with maces, and they fight slowly. Their abundant ventilation makes arrows almost useless against them.\n\n\"I'll give 'em this: they don't talk much.\" —Tangald Corl", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly. You arrive and enter cautiously....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You walk through a doorway into a natural cave.\n\nA serpent slithers toward you. It must be at least 15 feet long. It's green and scaly, and it gazes at you with unblinking eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton hits your chest with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its arm. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goals", "response": "- Discover Blornang's Hall\nX - Defeat 5 monsters on one adventure\nX - Buy a tabard", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You spend some time searching the cave carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#19):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 7 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 1 crown\nTotal revenue: 6 crowns\n\n{ You have reached Level 2! Congrats! Your hit points have\nincreased, and the Magic Shop is open to you. Unfortunately, adventuring costs have increased. You can now proceed down to Level 2 of the dungeon. }", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and light leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have 10 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goals", "response": "- Defeat 4 tough monsters on one adventure\n- Buy a cape\n- Bring back 30+ crowns from an adventure", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is very obviously a magic shop. Every square inch of shelf and table is occupied by old books, colored crystals, and containers of various fluids. Varnthlorian, the gaunt and elderly shopkeeper, sits on a high stool, examining you thoughtfully. The exit is east.\n\nVarnthlorian says, \"Perhaps you would like this lovely AMULET that will allow you to shoot magic arrows whenever you want. I'm asking 30 crowns.\n\n\"I also recommend this fine enchanted SHEATH that will slightly improve your chance of getting lucky strikes. The price is 90 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "\"Welcome,\" says Varnthlorian.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You sit down with a large group of travelers. They are apparently going to a festival in Royo, a little town on the coast. They keep slapping you on the back as if you were a member of their party.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got some leather ARMOR. A little sturdier than what you're wearing. You can have it for 20 crowns.\n\n\"I also have an extra-sharp SWORD. A little better than what you have. Price is 50 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy.\n\nYou descend to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You come to a mushroom-filled cave.\n\nA thick yellow slime squishes into view. It pulses on the floor, popping occasionally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You rake your sword through the slime, but it just reforms. The slime shoots some acid at you.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The slime spits some acid at you. Ow! You slash with your sword, but the slime just reforms.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The slime spits some acid at you. Ow! You slash with your sword, but the slime just reforms.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The slime spits some acid at you. Ow! You slash with your sword, but the slime just reforms.\n\n(You lose 6 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#20):\n\nYou defeated 0 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected: none\n\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal loss: (3 crowns)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bestiary", "response": "1. Skeleton (4 defeated)\n2. Giant Rat (9 defeated)\n3. Goblin (9 defeated)\n4. Serpent (1 defeated)\n5. Rootling (4 defeated)\n6. ----\n7. ----\n8. ----\n9. Yellow Slime (?)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 9", "response": "You haven't beaten a yellow slime yet. Beat one to access the entry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a sloping passage. You walk through a doorway into a banquet hall.\n\nA giant rat leaps into view. It must be three feet long, not counting the tail. Its wiry black fur bristles, and it glares at you with fierce beady eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You swipe at the rat, drawing blood. It charges at you and bites into your leg. Ouch!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rat leaps up and bites your arm. You throw it off and stab with your sword, wounding it.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You swipe at the rat, drawing blood. It charges at you and bites into your leg. Ouch!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The orc slashes you with its axe. You stab with your sword and cut its arm.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The orc slashes you with its axe. You stab with your sword and cut its arm.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The orc swings its axe, cutting your arm. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#21):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 7 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 4 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You are invited to join an arm-wrestling contest. You face off against a burly opponent. You lose despite a commendable effort.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and light leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have 11 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bestiary", "response": "1. Skeleton (4 defeated)\n2. Giant Rat (10 defeated)\n3. Goblin (9 defeated)\n4. Serpent (1 defeated)\n5. Rootling (4 defeated)\n6. ----\n7. Orc (1 defeated)\n8. ----\n9. Yellow Slime (?)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 7", "response": "7. Orc\n\n(Level 2 Humanoid)\n\nOrcs are stronger than goblins, and better armed. They are also greener.\n\n\"Two orcs walk into a bar. They kill each other.\" —Akerody\nRonzin", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 9", "response": "You haven't beaten a yellow slime yet. Beat one to access the entry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You kick open a wooden door and enter a crypt.\n\nA giant rat leaps into view. It must be three feet long, not counting the tail. Its wiry black fur bristles, and it glares at you with fierce beady eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You leap, grazing the bat with your sword. It dives down and bites your arm.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The bat swoops down and bites you. You slash with your sword, but barely nick it as it darts away.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You leap, grazing the bat with your sword. It dives down and bites your arm.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The bat swoops down and bites you. You slash with your sword, but barely nick it as it darts away.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The bat swoops down and bites you. You slash with your sword, but barely nick it as it darts away.\n\n(You lose 6 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#22):\n\nYou defeated 0 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected: none\n\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal loss: (3 crowns)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and light leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have 8 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a sloping passage. You kick open a wooden door and enter a banquet hall.\n\nA strange brass spider drops onto the floor in front of you. It has a body like a smooth brass ball, supported by a set of sharp jointed legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "Your sword finds a narrow crevice in the spider's body. There is a shower of sparks, and it stops moving!\n\n(Lucky strike!)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of coins worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under a pile of broken wood you find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its arm.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 6 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the ghoul with your sword. It rakes its claws across your chest.\n\n(You lose 6 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The ghoul swipes at you with its sharp claws. You slash it with your sword, and it gurgles.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#23):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nsilver ring (3 crowns)\nsilver cup (6 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 19 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 16 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and light leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have 24 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got some leather ARMOR. A little sturdier than what you're wearing. You can have it for 20 crowns.\n\n\"I also have an extra-sharp SWORD. A little better than what you have. Price is 50 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy ARMOR", "response": "You buy the armor. It's thicker than the suit you started with, and also in better condition. You should take a little less damage in fights now.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got an extra-sharp SWORD. A little better than what you have. Price is 50 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You fall into conversation with a roguish gentleman. He tells an amusing story about his experiences in the city of Horgalon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Log", "response": "Monsters defeated: 2\nLoot collected: 7 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 0\nLoot collected: 0 crowns\n(Don't tell your friends about this one.)\n\nMonsters defeated: 2\nLoot collected: 7 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 0\nLoot collected: 0 crowns\n(Don't tell your friends about this one.)\n\nMonsters defeated: 3\nLoot collected: 19 crowns\n\nTotal monsters defeated: 32\nMost monsters defeated on one adventure: 5\nTotal lucky strikes: 2\nTotal loot collected: 95 crowns\nTotal adventuring costs: 31 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best", "response": "1. Skeleton (4 defeated)\n2. Giant Rat (10 defeated)\n3. Goblin (10 defeated)\n4. Serpent (1 defeated)\n5. Rootling (4 defeated)\n6. Ghoul (?)\n7. Orc (1 defeated)\n8. Giant Bat (?)\n9. Yellow Slime (?)\n10. Brass Spider (2 defeated)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 10", "response": "10. Brass Spider\n\n(Level 2 Contraption)\n\nBrass spiders have been showing up in dungeons recently. Their origins are uncertain, but there is a rumor that they were invented by a group of evil wizards. The plan was to create a spider army, but most of them were reportedly destroyed in a thunderstorm.\n\n\"If these things start making webs, I quit.\" —Jona Axright", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a banquet hall.\n\nAn orc sees you and pounds its chest. It is squat and green and carries an axe. It grimaces, showing you short white fangs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The orc slashes you with its axe. You stab with your sword and cut its arm.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The orc swings its axe, cutting your leg. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under a piece of faded cloth you find a pouch of coins worth 5 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the shoulder with its club.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its torso.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You spend some time searching the cave carefully. One of the taller mushrooms blows a cloud of spores in your face! You cough and splutter.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)\n\nYou find nothing else of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#24):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 17 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 14 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got an extra-sharp SWORD. A little better than what you have. Price is 50 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\n\n\"I also have some nice studded ARMOR. Helps deflect all those teeth and weapons. I'll let you have it for 55 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and sturdy leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have 18 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You kick open an iron door and enter a crypt.\n\nYou look up and see a giant bat above you. It flaps around with broad wings. Occasionally it lets out a nasty squeal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 1 crown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You swipe at the rat, drawing blood. It charges at you and bites into your leg. Ouch!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose your remaining hit points.)\n\nYou've taken too much damage! You'll have to get out of here....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#25):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 15 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 12 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and sturdy leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have 30 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You're in the Ruffled Feather, the most popular gathering place in Overville. Most of the tables are filled with patrons chatting and drinking. You can TALK with them if you want. The wait staff hurry back and forth to the bar. The exit is west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You have a long conversation with an elderly traveler. He seems very interested in the recent goings-on in Overville.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the amulet", "response": "You buy the amulet. Now you can attack with magic arrows! Just type ARROWS (A).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You kick open an iron door and enter an abandoned storeroom.\n\nA serpent slithers toward you. It must be at least 15 feet long. It's green and knobbly, and it gazes at you with unblinking eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The serpent sinks its fangs into your leg. Yow! You slash with your sword, and it shudders.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The serpent sinks its fangs into your leg. Yow! You slash with your sword, and it shudders.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The serpent gives you a nasty bite. You respond with a powerful stroke and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the serpent.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bowl worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. As you poke around the altar, a small opening puffs out some poison gas! You cough uncontrollably.\n\n(You lose 2 hit points.)\n\nYou find nothing else of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#26):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (3 crowns)\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 9 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 6 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best", "response": "1. Skeleton (4 defeated)\n2. Giant Rat (11 defeated)\n3. Goblin (11 defeated)\n4. Serpent (2 defeated)\n5. Rootling (6 defeated)\n6. Ghoul (2 defeated)\n7. Orc (2 defeated)\n8. Giant Bat (?)\n9. Yellow Slime (1 defeated)\n10. Brass Spider (2 defeated)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 6", "response": "6. Ghoul\n\n(Level 2 Undead)\n\nGhouls are repulsive creatures with dangerous claws. Like all undead monsters, holy radiance is the most convenient way to deal with them, but swords work too.\n\n\"The only good ghoul is a...no, that doesn't work.\" —Mitch\nVorsk", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 9", "response": "9. Yellow Slime\n\n(Level 2 Oddity)\n\nSlimes are acid-spitting menaces. Plain edged weapons do very little harm to them; magical attacks are advised. Whatever happens, do not let them crawl onto you.\n\n\"A blue slime makes a good pet, but you can't take a yellow slime anywhere.\" —Honesty Worter", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You are introduced to a seasoned adventurer, who notices your amulet. \"I don't always like to use magic arrows, but I'll tell you, they are extremely effective against certain monsters—even the tough ones! Try them on everything and see what works!\"\n\n(New tip added!)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tips", "response": "1. General Adventuring\n2. Leveling\n3. The Tavern\n4. Monster Varieties\n5. Searching\n*6. Selecting Attacks\n\n(To read a tip, type TIP [number].)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tip 6", "response": "Different attacks are appropriate for different monsters. For example, magic arrows are very effective against certain monsters (even tough ones). Experimentation is advised.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and sturdy leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 6 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a sloping passage, working your way around a pile of rubble. You kick open a wooden door and enter an ancient shrine.\n\nYou look up and see a giant bat above you. It flaps around with broad, leathery wings. Occasionally it lets out a nasty squeal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton hits your head with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its femur. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and sturdy leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 6 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nsilver cup (6 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nTotal value: 13 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#27):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver cup (6 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 14 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 11 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You are invited to join an arm-wrestling contest. You face off against a rough-looking opponent. You lose despite a commendable effort.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You kick open a wooden door and enter a mushroom-filled cave.\n\nA strange brass spider drops onto the floor in front of you. It has a body like a smooth brass ball, supported by a set of sharp jointed legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul swipes at you with its sharp claws. You slash it with your sword, and it gurgles.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a small pearl worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its leg.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the head with its club.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Inside an old box you find an old parchment!\n\nYou unfold it. Faded letters say, \"The path to the Raining Cave begins in a shrine.\"\n\n(Story updated.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#28):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 13 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 10 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and sturdy leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 27 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a sloping passage. You come to an abandoned storeroom.\n\nA thick yellow slime squishes into view. It pulses on the floor, popping occasionally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You already defeated the yellow slime.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a small pearl worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under an old wooden tray you find a pouch of bronze coins worth 1 crown!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and sturdy leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 27 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nsmall pearl (5 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\nTotal value: 13 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. Inside a brass urn you find a pouch of bronze coins worth 2 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and sturdy leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 41 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got an extra-sharp SWORD. A little better than what you have. Price is 50 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\n\n\"I also have some nice studded ARMOR. Helps deflect all those teeth and weapons. I'll let you have it for 55 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You come to a room with a pit.\n\nA thick yellow slime squishes into view. It pulses on the floor, popping occasionally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton hits your chest with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its arm. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of coins worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. At the bottom of a barrel you find a pouch of coins worth 4 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#30):\n\nYou defeated 4 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 21 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 18 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and sturdy leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 59 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got an extra-sharp SWORD. A little better than what you have. Price is 50 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\n\n\"I also have some nice studded ARMOR. Helps deflect all those teeth and weapons. I'll let you have it for 55 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy ARMOR", "response": "You buy the armor. It's a definite improvement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best", "response": "1. Skeleton (6 defeated)\n2. Giant Rat (11 defeated)\n3. Goblin (13 defeated)\n4. Serpent (2 defeated)\n5. Rootling (7 defeated)\n6. Ghoul (5 defeated)\n7. Orc (2 defeated)\n8. Giant Bat (1 defeated)\n9. Yellow Slime (5 defeated)\n10. Brass Spider (3 defeated)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Best 8", "response": "8. Giant Bat\n\n(Level 2 Animal)\n\nGiant bats infest most dungeons. They have an irritating tendency to fly out of reach.\n\n\"Do giant bats eat giant gnats?\" —Yarward Pittle", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is very obviously a magic shop. Every square inch of shelf and table is occupied by old books, colored crystals, and containers of various fluids. Varnthlorian, the gaunt and elderly shopkeeper, sits on a high stool, examining you thoughtfully. The exit is east.\n\nVarnthlorian says, \"Perhaps you would like this fine enchanted SHEATH that will slightly improve your chance of getting lucky strikes. The price is 90 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is gray and cloudy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You walk through a doorway into a mushroom-filled cave.\n\nA serpent slithers toward you. It must be at least 15 feet long. It's green and scaly, and it gazes at you with unblinking eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Inside an old box you discover a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You have already searched pretty carefully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You give the skeleton a solid whack with your sword. It brings its mace down on your shoulder.\n\n(You lose 2 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You give the skeleton a solid whack with your sword. It brings its mace down on your head.\n\n(You lose 2 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The skeleton hits your shoulder with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its spine. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 2 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 17 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You walk through a doorway into an abandoned storeroom.\n\nA strange brass spider drops onto the floor in front of you. It has a body like a smooth brass ball, supported by a set of sharp jointed legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. At the bottom of a barrel you find a pouch of coins worth 5 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 2 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. In a damaged footlocker you find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 17 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nTotal value: 19 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#32):\n\nYou defeated 5 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 23 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 20 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a sloping passage. You walk through a doorway into a room with a pit.\n\nA serpent slithers toward you. It must be at least 15 feet long. It's green and scaly, and it gazes at you with unblinking eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The serpent gives you a nasty bite. You respond with a powerful stroke and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the serpent.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You swipe at the rat, drawing blood. It charges at you and bites into your leg. Ouch!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rat leaps up and bites you. You throw it off and stab with your sword, wounding it.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 2 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. You discover a secret door in the wall behind the altar! Musty air flows out\nas you open it. This should lead you to the Raining Cave.\n\n(Story updated.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Story", "response": "One evening in the Ruffled Feather, a strange old dwarf told you a legend about Black Knife Dungeon. There's supposed to be some kind of valuable relic deep inside. \"But first, seek Blornang's Hall,\" the dwarf said before falling asleep on the table.\n\nYou discovered the hall and obtained a wooden key. Blornang's ghost told you to go to the Raining Cave on Level 2.\n\nYou found an old parchment that said, \"The path to the Raining Cave begins in a shrine.\" You discovered a secret door behind the altar in one of the shrines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the ghoul with your sword. It rakes its claws across your chest.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You strike the ghoul with your sword. It rakes its claws across your chest.\n\n(You lose your remaining hit points.)\n\nYou've taken too much damage! You'll have to get out of here....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#33):\n\nYou defeated 4 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 13 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 10 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 47 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You kick open a wooden door and enter a room with a pit.\n\nA ghoul steps toward you and groans. Warty gray skin stretches over its bones. It wears dirty rags, and it glares at you with bright yellow eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The serpent gives you a nasty bite. You respond with a powerful stroke and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the serpent.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under an old wooden tray you find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "Your sword finds a narrow crevice in the spider's body. There is a shower of sparks, and it stops moving!\n\n(Lucky strike!)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of coins worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#34):\n\nYou defeated 4 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (3 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\nsilver ring (3 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 18 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 15 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a decent sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 62 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got an extra-sharp SWORD. A little better than what you have. Price is 50 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the sword", "response": "You buy the sword. Very sharp! You should be able to inflict a little more damage now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor, carefully avoiding a pit. You walk through a doorway into a mushroom-filled cave.\n\nA strange brass spider drops onto the floor in front of you. It has a body like a grooved brass ball, supported by a set of sharp jointed legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider jabs you with a sharp leg. You whack it with your sword, throwing sparks.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The spider jabs you with a sharp leg. You whack it with your sword, throwing sparks.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 6 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under a pile of broken wood you find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 12 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nbronze bowl (1 crown)\nsilver cup (6 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nTotal value: 15 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The orc swings its axe, cutting your side. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a small pearl worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#35):\n\nYou defeated 5 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nbronze bowl (1 crown)\nsilver cup (6 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 25 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 22 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 34 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You have a chat with one of the townsfolk. \"According to an old tale, the dwarves of Black Knife Dungeon created a mechanical guardian to protect them, but the blasted thing couldn't tell friend from foe! Eventually they managed to lock it up, but by then most of the dwarves had fled.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is gray and cloudy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You come to a room with a pit.\n\nA thick yellow slime squishes into view. It pulses on the floor, burbling occasionally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a small pearl worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#36):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 7 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 4 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a banquet hall.\n\nAn orc sees you and pounds its chest. It is squat and green and carries an axe. It grimaces, showing you short white fangs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The orc swings its axe, cutting your side. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under a pile of broken wood you find a pouch of coins worth 4 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The serpent sinks its fangs into your leg. Yow! You slash with your sword, and it shudders.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The serpent sinks its fangs into your leg. Yow! You slash with your sword, and it shudders.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The serpent gives you a nasty bite. You respond with a powerful stroke and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the serpent.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. Inside an ancient vase you find a bronze bowl worth 1 crown!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#37):\n\nYou defeated 5 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nbronze bowl (1 crown)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 24 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 21 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 59 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You walk through a doorway into a crypt.\n\nA goblin jumps up and shouts, \"Slarg!\" It has long arms and a perpetual scowl. It wears a tattered loincloth and wields a wooden club.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 6 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You lunge, striking the orc with with your sword. It bangs your head with the flat of its axe.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The orc slashes you with its axe. You stab with your sword and cut its shoulder.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#38):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\nsilver cup (6 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 13 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 10 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got a stylish CAPE. Gives you a real presence. It's a bargain at 65 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy CAPE", "response": "You buy the cape. It looks great!\n\n{ Goal completed! (Buy a cape) }", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard and a stylish cape. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You are invited to join an arm-wrestling contest. You face off against a burly opponent and win!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a narrow passage, working your way around a pile of rubble. You walk through a doorway into a crypt.\n\nA ghoul steps toward you and groans. Warty gray skin stretches over its bones. It wears dirty rags, and it glares at you with bright yellow eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The ghoul swipes at you with its sharp claws. You slash it with your sword, and it gurgles.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You strike the ghoul with your sword. It rakes its claws across your chest.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. You don't find anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#39):\n\nYou defeated 1 monster.\n\nTreasures collected:\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 3 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 0 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You come to a crypt.\n\nA rootling emerges from the shadows. It looks like a vaguely humanoid mass of vines, twigs, and shiny green leaves. It creaks eerily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 2 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. Inside a sarcophagus you find a silver ring worth 2 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. In a damaged footlocker you find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Inside an old box you discover a silver cup worth 5 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton thumps you in the shoulder with its mace. You land a couple of swift strokes.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The skeleton hits your head with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its femur. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard and a stylish cape. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 4 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\nsilver cup (6 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nTotal value: 25 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the ghoul with your sword. It rakes its claws across your chest.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You strike the ghoul with your sword. It rakes its claws across your chest.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#40):\n\nYou defeated 4 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\nsilver cup (6 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 28 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 25 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is gray and cloudy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You walk through a doorway into a barracks.\n\nA strange brass spider drops onto the floor in front of you. It has a body like a smooth brass ball, supported by a set of sharp jointed legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton hits your chest with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its arm. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard and a stylish cape. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 29 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nTotal value: 20 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. In a damaged footlocker you find a bronze bowl worth 1 crown!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard and a stylish cape. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 29 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nbronze bowl (1 crown)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nTotal value: 29 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#41):\n\nYou defeated 7 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nbronze bowl (1 crown)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 32 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 29 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goals", "response": "- Defeat 4 tough monsters on one adventure\nX - Buy a cape\n- Bring back 30+ crowns from an adventure", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard and a stylish cape. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 58 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I haven't got anything for you right now. Come back another time!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "You chat with one of the local guards. He says that people are getting needlessly anxious about monster attacks. \"They stay in their dungeons,\" he chuckles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You kick open a wooden door and enter a room with a pit.\n\nA strange brass spider drops onto the floor in front of you. It has a body like a smooth brass ball, supported by a set of sharp jointed legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. Inside a brass urn you find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The orc swings its axe, cutting your side. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the skeleton with your sword. It counters and pounds you with its mace.\n\n(You lose 2 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You give the skeleton a solid whack with your sword. It brings its mace down on your arm.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The skeleton hits your shoulder with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its spine. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard and a stylish cape. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 58 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nTotal value: 20 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The orc swings its axe, cutting your side. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#42):\n\nYou defeated 5 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 28 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 25 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard and a stylish cape. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 83 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is very obviously a magic shop. Every square inch of shelf and table is occupied by old books, colored crystals, and containers of various fluids. Varnthlorian, the gaunt and elderly shopkeeper, sits on a high stool, examining you thoughtfully. The exit is east.\n\nVarnthlorian says, \"Perhaps you would like this fine enchanted SHEATH that will slightly improve your chance of getting lucky strikes. The price is 90 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You kick open a wooden door and enter a banquet hall.\n\nA giant rat leaps into view. It must be three feet long, not counting the tail. Its wiry black fur bristles, and it glares at you with fierce beady eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under a piece of faded cloth you find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. Inside an ancient vase you find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#43):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nbronze bowl (1 crown)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 11 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 8 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard and a stylish cape. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 91 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the sheath", "response": "You buy the sheath and attach it to your belt. Very nice. Now you'll have a better chance to get lucky strikes!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is gray and cloudy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You walk through a doorway into a room with a pit.\n\nA rootling emerges from the shadows. It looks like a vaguely humanoid mass of vines, twigs, and small leaves. It creaks eerily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Not until you take care of the rootling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "Before the goblin can react, you give it a precise stab and kill it!\n\n(Lucky strike!)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of coins worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under one of the beds you find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard, a stylish cape, and a lucky sheath. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 1 crown.\n\nLoot collected:\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nTotal value: 20 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#44):\n\nYou defeated 7 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 29 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 26 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way along a rough, twisting passage. You walk through a doorway into an abandoned storeroom.\n\nA rootling emerges from the shadows. It looks like a vaguely humanoid mass of vines, twigs, and small leaves. It creaks eerily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The orc swings its axe, cutting your leg. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a small pearl worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 2 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver cup worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The serpent gives you a nasty bite. You respond with a powerful stroke and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the serpent.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under an old wooden tray you find a pouch of bronze coins worth 2 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard, a stylish cape, and a lucky sheath. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 27 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nsmall pearl (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\nTotal value: 22 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. Inside a sarcophagus you find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard, a stylish cape, and a lucky sheath. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 27 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nsmall pearl (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nTotal value: 28 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the ghoul with your sword. It rakes its claws across your chest.\n\n(You lose your remaining hit points.)\n\nYou've taken too much damage! You'll have to get out of here....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#45):\n\nYou defeated 7 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nsmall pearl (5 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\nsilver cup (5 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 28 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 25 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You kick open an iron door and enter a room with a pit.\n\nA thick yellow slime squishes into view. It pulses on the floor, burbling occasionally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. In a damaged footlocker you find a pouch of coins worth 5 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under a pile of rags you find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You swing quickly and cut the serpent in two!\n\n(Lucky strike!)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bowl worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The orc swings its axe, cutting your arm. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 5 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a small pearl worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rat charges and bites your leg. You strike a fierce blow with your sword and kill it!\n\n(You lose 2 hit points and defeat the giant rat.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the room carefully. Under one of the beds you find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard, a stylish cape, and a lucky sheath. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 52 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nTotal value: 27 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider slashes you with a sharp leg. You counter with your sword, and the thing drops to the ground with a clang!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the brass spider.)\n\nYou look around and find a small pearl worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard, a stylish cape, and a lucky sheath. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 52 crowns.\n\nLoot collected:\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\nTotal value: 31 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#46):\n\nYou defeated 7 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (5 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\nsmall pearl (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 34 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 31 crowns\n\n{ Goal completed! (Bring back 30+ crowns from an adventure) }", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goals", "response": "- Defeat 4 tough monsters on one adventure\nX - Buy a cape\nX - Bring back 30+ crowns from an adventure", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard, a stylish cape, and a lucky sheath. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 83 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I haven't got anything for you right now. Come back another time!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is very obviously a magic shop. Every square inch of shelf and table is occupied by old books, colored crystals, and containers of various fluids. Varnthlorian, the gaunt and elderly shopkeeper, sits on a high stool, examining you thoughtfully. The exit is east.\n\nVarnthlorian says, \"I don't have anything that suits you right now. Please return another time.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. It's raining lightly.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor, carefully avoiding a pit. You come to a crypt.\n\nA ghoul steps toward you and groans. Warty gray skin stretches over its bones. It wears dirty rags, and it glares at you with dull yellow eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The ghoul claws you. You strike back with your sword, and the monster falls to the ground!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the ghoul.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You spend some time searching the crypt carefully. Inside an ancient vase you find a pouch of coins worth 4 crowns!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You lunge, striking the orc with with your sword. It bangs your head with the flat of its axe.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You lunge, striking the orc with with your sword. It bangs your head with the flat of its axe.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The orc swings its axe, cutting your side. You slash the creature with your sword, and it keels over!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the orc.)\n\nYou look around and find a small pearl worth 5 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The spider jabs you with a sharp leg. You whack it with your sword, throwing sparks.\n\n(You lose 5 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You hack at the spider's leg, and a small piece falls off. The spider cuts you with a different leg.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#47):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\ntiny ruby (3 crowns)\npouch of coins (4 crowns)\nsmall pearl (5 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 13 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 10 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor, carefully avoiding a pit. You kick open an iron door and enter a room with a pit.\n\nA rootling emerges from the shadows. It looks like a vaguely humanoid mass of vines, twigs, and small leaves. It creaks eerily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The serpent sinks its fangs into your leg. Yow! You slash with your sword, and it shudders.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You give the serpent a shallow cut with your sword. It bites your sword arm.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The serpent gives you a nasty bite. You respond with a powerful stroke and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the serpent.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#48):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\nbronze bracelet (3 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 7 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 4 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Log", "response": "Monsters defeated: 7\nLoot collected: 29 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 7\nLoot collected: 28 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 7\nLoot collected: 34 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 2\nLoot collected: 13 crowns\n\nMonsters defeated: 3\nLoot collected: 7 crowns\n\nTotal monsters defeated: 132\nMost monsters defeated on one adventure: 7\nTotal lucky strikes: 5\nTotal loot collected: 553 crowns\nTotal adventuring costs: 106 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is gray and cloudy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou follow a narrow passage, working your way around a pile of rubble. You kick open a wooden door and enter an ancient shrine.\n\nYou look up and see a giant bat above you. It flaps around with broad wings. Occasionally it lets out a nasty squeal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a pouch of bronze coins worth 1 crown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its arm.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 2 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its torso.\n\n(You lose 2 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You cut into the rootling, spilling some sap. It winds up and hits you with a thorny vine.\n\n(You lose your remaining hit points.)\n\nYou've taken too much damage! You'll have to get out of here....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#49):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\npouch of bronze coins (1 crown)\nsilver ring (3 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 8 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 5 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is cool and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou descend a short flight of stairs. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a crypt.\n\nA thick yellow slime squishes into view. It pulses on the floor, popping occasionally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its arm.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin yells and gives you a solid whack with its club. You counterattack and cut its leg.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bowl worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the shoulder with its club.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 2 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a silver ring worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The serpent sinks its fangs into your leg. Yow! You slash with your sword, and it shudders.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The serpent gives you a nasty bite. You respond with a powerful stroke and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the serpent.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 3 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You already defeated the serpent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton strikes your head with its mace. You hack at it and a few bone chips fly off.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The skeleton thumps you in the shoulder with its mace. You land a couple of swift strokes.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You strike the skeleton with your sword. It counters and pounds you with its mace.\n\n(You lose your remaining hit points.)\n\nYou've taken too much damage! You'll have to get out of here....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#50):\n\nYou defeated 3 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bowl (2 crowns)\nsilver ring (2 crowns)\nwooden statuette (3 crowns)\n\nLoot value: 7 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 4 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tips", "response": "1. General Adventuring\n2. Leveling\n3. The Tavern\n4. Monster Varieties\n5. Searching\n6. Selecting Attacks\n\n(To read a tip, type TIP [number].)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is warm and breezy.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a banquet hall.\n\nA ghoul steps toward you and groans. Warty gray skin stretches over its bones. It wears dirty rags, and it glares at you with bright yellow eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. You strike the goblin with your sword. It conks you on the head with its club.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 4 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#51):\n\nYou defeated 2 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 7 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 4 crowns", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are a Level 2 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard, a stylish cape, and a lucky sheath. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 110 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Adv", "response": "You head out to Black Knife Dungeon. The weather is sunny and pleasant.\n\nYou return to Level 2....\n\nPress SPACE.\nYou proceed along a wide corridor. You come to a ledge, and drop down into a mushroom-filled cave.\n\nA ghoul steps toward you and groans. Warty gray skin stretches over its bones. It wears dirty rags, and it glares at you with bright yellow eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The rootling swipes at you with a thorny vine. You swing your sword and chop off a few small twigs.\n\n(You lose 4 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The rootling wraps a thorny vine around your leg. You stab its core, and it topples to the ground!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the rootling.)\n\nYou look around and find a bronze bracelet worth 2 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "You begin fighting. The skeleton strikes your leg with its mace. You hack at it and break off a rib.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The skeleton strikes your shoulder with its mace. You hack at it and a few bone chips fly off.\n\n(You lose 3 hit points.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The skeleton hits your chest with its mace. You strike back with your sword and smash its arm. It collapses into a pile of bones!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the skeleton.)\n\nYou look around and find a tiny ruby worth 4 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "The goblin knocks you with its club. You respond with a fierce slash, and kill it!\n\n(You lose 3 hit points and defeat the goblin.)\n\nYou look around and find a wooden statuette worth 4 crowns.\n\n{ Goal completed! (Defeat 4 tough monsters on one adventure) }", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blackknife01", "response": "SAVEOk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Home", "response": "You make your way out of the dungeon and return to town.\n\nAdventure recap (#52):\n\nYou defeated 4 monsters.\n\nTreasures collected:\nbronze bracelet (2 crowns)\npouch of bronze coins (2 crowns)\ntiny ruby (4 crowns)\nwooden statuette (4 crowns)\n\n\n\nLoot value: 13 crowns\nAdventuring costs: 3 crowns\nTotal revenue: 10 crowns\n\n{ You have reached Level 3! Excellent! Your hit points have\nincreased, and adventuring costs have increased too. You can now proceed down to Level 3 of the dungeon. }", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goals", "response": "- Defeat 9 monsters on one adventure\n- Buy a nice belt\n- Use the ring exactly 4 times on an adventure, and defeat a monster each time", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is very obviously a magic shop. Every square inch of shelf and table is occupied by old books, colored crystals, and containers of various fluids. Varnthlorian, the gaunt and elderly shopkeeper, sits on a high stool, examining you thoughtfully. The exit is east.\n\nVarnthlorian says, \"Perhaps you would like this amazing sapphire RING that will allow you to make a variety of magical attacks. It draws power from the dungeon itself! You may have it for 60 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This shop is pretty well-kept, but not exactly spotless. Robard, the burly proprietor, stands behind a long counter with his arms folded, watching you patiently. The exit is south.\n\nRobard says, \"I've got a premium SWORD. An improvement over your current weapon. The price is 80 crowns.\n\n\"I also have some light chain ARMOR. More complete protection. I'll let you have it for 85 crowns.\n\n\"I also have a jeweled BELT. This will turn heads. The price is a mere 200 crowns.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are a Level 3 adventurer. You're equipped with a very sharp sword and studded leather armor. You're also wearing a fine tabard, a stylish cape, and a lucky sheath. You have found a wooden key and a rusty key.\n\nYou have an amulet of magic arrows.\n\nYou have 120 crowns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Story", "response": "One evening in the Ruffled Feather, a strange old dwarf told you a legend about Black Knife Dungeon. There's supposed to be some kind of valuable relic deep inside. \"But first, seek Blornang's Hall,\" the dwarf said before falling asleep on the table.\n\nYou discovered the hall and obtained a wooden key. Blornang's ghost told you to go to the Raining Cave on Level 2.\n\nYou found an old parchment that said, \"The path to the Raining Cave begins in a shrine.\" You discovered a secret door behind the altar in one of the shrines.\n\nIn the Raining Cave, you found a rusty key. Blornang's ghost told you to find the Carved Room on Level 3.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Superhero" ]

[ "combat", "cover art", "female protagonist", "IF Competition 2001", "IFComp Game", "kid-friendly", "kids", "parser", "science fiction", "superhero", "walkthrough" ]

[ 5, 33, 34, 6, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It's been almost a month since your parents disappeared.\n\nOne Tuesday, they just didn't come home, and there's been no sign of them since. For the University and the rest of the town, the mystery is beginning to pall. To those people, it's as if Claire and Scott Colborn suddenly stopped existing -- strange and inexplicable, to be sure, but forgettable in the long run.\n\nBut for you it's as if the ground beneath your feet stopped existing, and you've been plummeting in freefall ever since. Your brother Austin, though, has been a rock through the whole experience, handling the numbing details, the endless meetings with useless detectives, even sorting through Mom and Dad's lab in hopes of finding an answer. Now you stand outside the lab door, clutching his note, hardly daring to hope that such an answer may have arrived at long last.\n\nYou stand in one of the many beige, featureless corridors of the Physics building. The hall continues west, and reaches its eastern terminus here, at the door to Mom and Dad's lab.\n\nThe lab door is closed.\n\nA card reader is mounted to the wall beside the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na note\nan access card\na sweatshirt (being worn)\na pair of sweat pants (being worn)\nyour sneakers (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You haven't been looking your best lately, but you find it hard to care. Austin won't mind your casual clothes, though -- he understands that fashion isn't exactly topping your priorities right now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "This note was waiting for you when you got home today. It reads:\n\nMeet me at the lab as soon as you can. I've found some things that we need to talk about immediately.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the card", "response": "This card, which doubles as your student ID, displays your name and photo, along with a barcode and a 16-digit ID number; all this information is superimposed on an aerial shot of the campus and the pretty California surf. There's a magnetic stripe on the back.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You stand in one of the many beige, featureless corridors of the Physics building. The hall continues west, and reaches its eastern terminus here, at the door to Mom and Dad's lab.\n\nThe lab door is closed.\n\nA card reader is mounted to the wall beside the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the card", "response": "[swiping your access card in the reader]\nThe green light glows, and there is a click from inside the lab door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the lab door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You take a deep breath, and step across the threshold into the lab.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the pants", "response": "[Please press a key to continue.]\n\nPart 1: Suit Yourself\nLab\nEver since Dad got shortlisted for the Nobel in physics and Mom's patents started making millions, the University has pretty much given them carte blanche. Consequently, this lab space is cavernous, tens of thousands of square feet, with ceilings reaching nearly five stories high. Some parts of this giant room are occupied by giant equipment, dizzyingly complex hunks of machinery at whose function you couldn't even begin to guess. Other parts are empty, save for a few tables and terminals. A ring of windows near the ceiling looks out on the distant stars. Doors lead south into the storage room and west into the hallway.\n\nYou look around for Austin, but he's not here. Typical. Well, knowing your perpetually late brother, he'll be along soon enough.\n\nAmidst the general chaos of the lab, a legal pad seems to have fallen from one of the tables.\n\nThe hallway door is open.\n\nThe storage room door is open.\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pad", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe lab door clicks and swings shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine pad", "response": "The first page contains a few notes scribbled in your father's familiar cryptic handwriting:\n\nES: Str -- OK\nImp res -- OK\nE res -- ??? -- probs\n\nSS: Flt -- OK\nFog -- OK\nE -- OK\n\nPer N, bac strange. Hi-spd? Panspermia?\nAlso: c T re: sightings. Could b big. Portal poss. at mtn site?\n\nThe rest of the pages are blank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machinery", "response": "If you had a couple of days, unlimited curiosity, and several years worth of calculus and physics classes, Austin could probably explain some of this equipment to you. As it is, you prefer to be awed by its mysterious grandeur rather than the impressive feats it can no doubt perform. Luckily, Mom and Dad never pushed the science with either of you, so even though Austin ended up their prot?g? and you became a contented English major, he never got special treatment from them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "If Mom had her way, the storage room would be a neatly organized gallery of supplies, spare parts, and backup media, all efficiently arranged on the room's many metal shelving units. However, with Dad using the lab, that's not likely to happen. Oh sure, everything is on the shelves, but finding something could take the better part of a day. A door leads back north to the lab.\n\nThe storage room door is open.\n\nA wooden chair sits in the middle of the storage room, with some bright blue fabric draped across it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fabric", "response": "This appears to be a form-fitting bodysuit of some kind, tailored to fit a female body. It is bright blue, with cloud-patterned streaks of white. A combination cowl and mask is attached at the neck of the suit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You haven't been looking your best lately, but you find it hard to care. Austin won't mind your casual clothes, though -- he understands that fashion isn't exactly topping your priorities right now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chair", "response": "An ordinary wooden chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the suit", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are in Mom and Dad's lab. As usual, the majority of the equipment in this enormous space is more or less a mystery to you. Also here are a few tables and terminals; a ring of windows near the ceiling looks out on the distant stars. Doors lead south into the storage room and west into the hallway.\n\nThe hallway door is closed.\n\nThe storage room door is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "[first opening the hallway door]\n\nYou stand in one of the many beige, featureless corridors of the Physics building. The hall continues west, and reaches its eastern terminus here, at the door to Mom and Dad's lab.\n\nThe lab door is open, revealing the enormous room beyond.\n\nA card reader is mounted to the wall beside the door.\n\nYou hear footsteps in the deserted hallway, and turn to see Austin walking towards you. \"Hi, Em,\" he says when he reaches you. \"I see you found my note. Thanks for coming -- sorry I'm a little late. I'm going to head into the lab, so join me there whenever you're ready.\" True to his word, he enters the lab, closing the door behind him.\n\nYou find yourself doing a double-take as the door shuts. Was Austin wearing a mask?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "[first opening the lab door]\nIt seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock door", "response": "That's what the card reader is for.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the card in the reader", "response": "The green light glows, and there is a click from inside the lab door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "[first opening the lab door]\n\nYou are in Mom and Dad's lab. As usual, the majority of the equipment in this enormous space is more or less a mystery to you. Also here are a few tables and terminals; a ring of windows near the ceiling looks out on the distant stars. Doors lead south into the storage room and west into the hallway.\n\nThe hallway door is open.\n\nThe storage room door is open.\n\nYou can also see Austin here.\n\nYour brother has always been a bit of a fashion victim, but what he's wearing right now hits a new level on the sartorial freak-o-meter. It's a skintight grey body stocking, flecked with black and decorated with small orange or yellow streaks here and there. The whole thing snugly covers his modest frame, and a combination cowl and mask comes up from the back to conceal his hair and eyes.\n\n\"Hey,\" says Austin. \"Thanks again for coming. Listen Emily, you're not going to believe what I've been uncovering here. But before I tell you anything more, go into the storage room and put on that suit you're holding. I'll be waiting for you here.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay.\"\n2) \"I'm supposed to take fashion advice from somebody dressed like that?\"\n3) \"Hey, what's with the orders? You're not the boss of me!\"\n4) \"Austin, stop being so high-handed and just tell me what's going on.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Austin laughs. \"Okay, okay,\" he says, \"I know this must look a little bizarre, considering you don't really know the context. But please, just trust me. It won't make sense until you're wearing yours too.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Austin", "response": "Austin was never one to conform to the whims of fashion, but right now he's dressed much more strangely than you've ever seen him. He's wearing a grey jumpsuit, speckled with black and shot through with streaks of yellow and orange. The outfit seems to include a cowl and mask, which covers Austin's brown eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "If Mom had her way, the storage room would be a neatly organized gallery of supplies, spare parts, and backup media, all efficiently arranged on the room's many metal shelving units. However, with Dad using the lab, that's not likely to happen. Oh sure, everything is on the shelves, but finding something could take the better part of a day. A door leads back north to the lab.\n\nThe storage room door is open.\n\nYou can also see a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear suit", "response": "[first removing the sweatshirt]\nYou're not about to undress with the door open, even if the guy in the next room is only your brother.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the storage room door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the suit", "response": "[first removing the sweatshirt]\n\n[first removing the sweat pants]\n\n[first removing the sneakers]\n\nYou slip into the blue bodysuit. It's not a perfect fit, but it's better than you'd expected, skintight in some areas and only slightly looser in others. The feel is warm and comfortable, and the suit covers almost your entire body, even your hands and feet. When you pull the cowl and mask on, you feel a strange tingling sensation in your scalp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "[first opening the storage room door]\n\nYou are in Mom and Dad's lab. As usual, the majority of the equipment in this enormous space is more or less a mystery to you. Also here are a few tables and terminals; a ring of windows near the ceiling looks out on the distant stars. Doors lead south into the storage room and west into the hallway.\n\nThe hallway door is closed.\n\nThe storage room door is open.\n\nYou can also see Austin here.\n\n\"Oh good, you're wearing it,\" Austin says.\n\nHe shows you a notebook he's been carrying. \"I found this notebook, along with these stylish outfits, late last night. I was checking out all the ongoing experiments in hopes of... well, I don't know what I was hoping for. All I know is that nobody seems to know what happened to Mom and Dad, and nobody can even think of any reason why they would have disappeared. So I've been combing through the lab, trying to reconstruct what they were working on at the time it happened.\"\n\nHe leans back against a towering piece of steel machinery, allowing himself to slide down it and sit on the floor. \"They were working on a lot, Em, let me tell you -- most of it so far beyond my own scientific experience that it took me a long time to even grasp the point of each experiment. Dad's cryptic notation style didn't help much either. So last night, when I started checking out a piece of equipment that didn't seem to have any purpose at all, I figured it was just my own ignorance again, that I didn't know what the thing was. Then I stumbled on a tiny little latch, and the whole thing swung open. Em, it was hollow inside. And stuffed into that cavity were these suits, with this notebook.\"\n\nHe opens the notebook and begins to read aloud:\n\nEarthsuit: provides\n* greatly enhanced strength\n* resistance to electric shock\n* invulnerability to impact (nearly)\n\nMust be Mom's notes, you think to yourself. Dad would've written something like \"inv 2 imp (~)\". Austin flips a few pages, then reads again.\n\nSkysuit: provides\n* flight\n* electrical discharges (blasts)\n* fog\n\n\"The rest of the pages are filled with notes and diagrams that are way beyond my grasp. But near as I can figure, these are the suits those notes talk about. I'm wearing the earthsuit, and you're wearing the skysuit.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"I don't understand. What's this all about?\"\n2) \"Did they also make a monkeysuit? Maybe with 'greatly enhanced banana-eating ability'?\"\n3) \"I had to wear this goofy suit just to hear you recite from a notebook?\"\n4) \"But this is just so bizarre. You think Mom and Dad were planning to make us into some kind of superheroes?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "\"Maybe not us,\" he says. \"Your build is very similar to Mom's, and I'm not all that much bigger than Dad. Maybe they were planning to wear the suits themselves. I don't know. All I know is that mine definitely works, or at least the strength part does. Watch.\"\n\nAustin turns around to face the device he had been using as a backrest. It's some sort of steel tower, probably fifteen feet tall and two feet in diameter. He squats in front of it, embraces it, and smoothly unbends his knees, lifting the entire thing as if it were made of balsa wood.\n\n\"This thing must weigh almost a ton,\" he says through gritted teeth, \"but I can lift it like it was a piece of furniture. It's a little awkward to keep balanced, but I can do it.\" As if to prove the point, he bends his knees again until the tower is in its original resting place, then turns to face you.\n\n\"Remember that tingling you felt when you put own the cowl? The suits respond to mental commands. I bet if you decided you wanted to fly up to the ceiling right now, you could. Why don't you try it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "The moment you think it, the ground silently drops away beneath you, so fast and so smoothly that it almost feels as if a wire is pulling you up to the ceiling. But there is no wire, and only air beneath your feet. You have risen...\n\nYou are hovering in the air, several stories above the lab floor. The beams and girders of the ceiling are so close you could touch them, and the windows display a magnificent view of the campus and ocean. Far below, Austin looks up at you from amid a sea of equipment. Good thing you're not afraid of heights.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the beams", "response": "Sure enough, you can touch them. [Hey, I wouldn't lie to you.] In fact, as you rest your hand on one of the girders, you notice a small envelope taped to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the envelope", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat beam", "response": "(first taking the ceiling struts)\nThey're hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the envelope", "response": "You open the envelope, revealing a letter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the letter", "response": "[first removing it from the envelope]\n\nThe letter is written in your mother's handwriting:\n\nIf you've found this letter, something is probably very wrong. I wish I could explain everything to you, but that will have to wait. If Nina hasn't contacted you already, bring this letter to her. If we're missing, she can give you information that might help the search parties. If our deaths have been confirmed, she will serve as the executor of our estate, and deliver documents we've prepared for that circumstance.\n\nRemember that we love you both, and are very proud of you. And believe that we never meant to put you in danger -- for that we are deeply sorry.\n\nCourage,\n\nMom + Dad\n\nNina -- to you, she's always been \"Aunt Nina\", though of course she isn't really your blood relative. She's Mom and Dad's oldest and closest friend, so it makes perfect sense that they'd let her in on their secrets. But if she has information, why isn't she using it? And why hasn't she told you or Austin about any of this?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are hovering in the air, several stories above the lab floor. The beams and girders of the ceiling are so close you could touch them, and the windows display a magnificent view of the campus and ocean. Far below, Austin looks up at you from amid a sea of equipment. Good thing you're not afraid of heights.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the window", "response": "From here, the windows command an incredible view. To the east, the campus spreads out before you and the main roads reach to the horizon. On the other side, moonlight glimmers on the vast ocean.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "As smoothly as you rose, you descend once more.\n\nYou are in Mom and Dad's lab. As usual, the majority of the equipment in this enormous space is more or less a mystery to you. Also here are a few tables and terminals; a ring of windows near the ceiling looks out on the distant stars. Doors lead south into the storage room and west into the hallway.\n\nThe hallway door is closed.\n\nThe storage room door is open.\n\nYou can also see Austin here.\n\n\"Well, it's clear that the flying functionality is operational,\" says Austin.\n\n\"Now let's test out some of that suit's other capabilities. The notes mention a fog power -- the flying worked when you decided to fly, so let's see what happens when you try to fog something. Why don't we start by having you just think FOG? I have a hunch that will probably cloud up the general area.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Sure thing.\"\n2) \"Oh, there's a useful superpower. 'They're getting away! Quick, Fog-Woman, worsen their driving conditions!'\"\n3) \"Okay, but all this moisture had better not make my hair really frizzy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Austin rolls his eyes. \"Yeah, you want those glamorous powers that they give women in the comic books... like shrinking, or turning invisible. Watch out, evildoers: it's Unobtrusive Lass!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog", "response": "At your mental command, fog swirls around you, billowing out and silently engulfing the room. Because of the size of the lab, however, it quickly thins into a light mist.\n\n\"Excellent!\" says Austin. \"Looks like the suit can generate a limited amount of fog when you just give the basic mental command. It's not enough to do much in this room, but it might be quite handy in a more confined space.\"\n\nAustin walks to a corner of the lab, retrieving a huge wooden spool that probably once held some of the cables powering Mom and Dad's various big machines. He carries it casually, in one hand, the way you might carry a cup of coffee. He then sets it down in front of you, saying, \"Perhaps the suit allows you to fog specific objects as well. Why don't you focus your thought on fogging this spool?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Alright, I'll give it a shot.\"\n2) \"Why don't you focus your thought on not being so freaking bossy?\" 3) \"Hang on, I want to try something else first.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"Well, we're mighty testy today, aren't we? Look, it's not like all this has been easy on me either, and I've been doing a lot more of the actual work than you have. I'm fine with that, but it doesn't mean I'm willing to be your personal punching bag. So do whatever you want. When you're interested in learning how to use the skysuit, I'll be waiting.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog austin", "response": "You concentrate on fogging Austin, but nothing happens.\n\n\"Interesting,\" muses Austin. \"Apparently, the fog power only works on one thing at a time.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na letter\nan envelope (which is open but empty)\na skysuit (being worn)\na legal pad\na note\nan access card\na sweatshirt\na pair of sweat pants\nyour sneakers", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Austin about the the letter", "response": "Austin takes the letter from you and reads it, his eyes widening.\n\nHe gives the letter back to you. \"Seems like every clue we find leaves us understanding less than we did before, doesn't it?\" he says. \"And I don't know about you, but I'm starting to get pretty freaked out. I mean, their disappearance was terrifying enough, but now these suits, and this stuff about us being in danger? I just don't know what to think, Em. Least of all about Aunt Nina. Hey, aren't you scheduled to assist her in lab work tomorrow morning? Maybe you could ask her about all this then.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Sure.\"\n2) \"Oh yeah, that'll be a fun conversation. 'Howdy Aunt Nina, how are you? Oh, and by the way, I was wondering why you betrayed our family?'\"\n3) \"I'll try, but Nina tends to get pretty wrapped up in her work. I may have to wait until after lab.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "\"Yeah, I've seen that in action,\" he laughs. \"Well, at this point, the biggest part of the mystery is why she hasn't told us already. So I guess a few more hours won't kill us. I hope.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask him about the fog", "response": "\"I suppose it's of limited use when it blocks your sight as well as that of others, but it's an interesting ability nonetheless.\"\n\nYou notice that the mist has pretty much dissipated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog austin", "response": "At your mental command, fog swirls around Austin, silently engulfing him in a cloud of thick, grey vapor.\n\n\"Verrrry funny,\" says the cloud. It blunders about the room for a few moments, finally bumping into and encompassing one of the lab's many tables. There is the sound of sliding papers, then a deep whoosh whoosh whoosh emanates from within the cloud, and you are buffeted by powerful waves of air. Within seconds, the cloud has cleared, revealing Austin waving a six-foot table as if it were an oriental fan.\n\nHe sets the table down. \"Okay, wiseass, you've made your point. Clearly, you can fog specific things, and even specific people. And I'm guessing that if you use it on somebody who can't overpower it, it'd probably be a pretty good weapon. I still think the spool would've been a better test subject, though,\" he says grumpily.\n\n\"I think there's just one more power we have yet to test: the electrical blasts. Mom's notes are a little vague on this point -- it was probably more Dad's contribution -- but I'm betting that it works just like the specific fog, that you just decide what you want to blast and blast it. Of course, I'm not sure how much power you'll pack, so there's not many things in here it'd be safe to test on. How about we try this spool again? Either just blast it right here, or if you want to try it from the air, fly up to the ceiling and I'll toss the spool to you. I'm betting you can probably blow it to smithereens.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"You got it.\"\n2) \"Now that's more like it! KA-BLAMMO!\"\n3) \"My God, you mean I can actually shoot lightning with this thing? This is all so surreal.\"\n4) \"How about we test your suit's resistance to electric shock, instead?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "Austin's usually confident expression collapses. \"Uh, well... I have to say, Emily, the prospect makes me pretty nervous. I mean, it'd be great to find out that it works, but I'm not a hundred percent sure they finished building in that feature, and I don't think I'd want to be struck by lightning unless I was sure.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast austin", "response": "You extend your hand, and panic soaks Austin's face. \"Emily, wait, STOP! What are you doing?\"\n\n\"Well,\" you say, \"I figure: here's me with electrical powers, and here's you with a suit that absorbs electricity. Let's give it a try!\"\n\n\"But we don't know that the earthsuit's electrical protection actually works! I sure haven't done any tests, considering the consequences of those tests failing. I mean, it'd be great to find out that it works, but I'm not a hundred percent sure they finished building in that feature, and I don't think I'd want to be struck by lightning unless I was sure.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pussy", "response": "\"Now who's the bossy one?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast austin", "response": "You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and Austin. \"Emily, no! Don't--\" he says, then sees the buzzing, sparking current and screams in alarm. For a moment, you are both frozen in that tableau, and then Austin's body begins to convulse, his muscles spasming uncontrollably as the current races through them. A jolt of adrenaline hits you, but the skysuit interprets your muscle tension as a command to continue the lightning, and Austin's seizure goes on. Finally, with utmost willpower, you relax your muscles, and the power stops flowing. You run to Austin, but you know the truth even before you reach him: it's much too late. Your lightning has stopped his heart, and he lies lifeless on a lab floor that grows ever colder beneath you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You blast yourself", "response": "Nothing happens. Apparently, the suit has some sort of safeguard against self-destruction. Guess you'll have to go back to the slitting-your-wrists idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fog yourself", "response": "Thick, swirling fog coalesces around you, and you find yourself...\n\nA thick cloud of impenetrable mist surrounds you on all sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say 'excuse yourself'", "response": "A thick cloud of impenetrable mist surrounds you on all sides.\n\n(to yourself)\nThere is no reply.\n\nThe fog lifts, and you can see again.\n\nYou are in Mom and Dad's lab. As usual, the majority of the equipment in this enormous space is more or less a mystery to you. Also here are a few tables and terminals; a ring of windows near the ceiling looks out on the distant stars. Doors lead south into the storage room and west into the hallway.\n\nThe hallway door is closed.\n\nThe storage room door is open.\n\nYou can also see Austin and a large wooden spool here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast spool", "response": "You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the large wooden spool. With a thundering KER-POW, the large wooden spool disintegrates, leaving only a smoking scorch mark.\n\nAustin whistles. \"Wow,\" he says. \"That is one powerful blast. Looks like you could pretty much obliterate most any nearby object, unless it was well grounded and a very good conductor. Even then, it'd probably get pretty fried by the sheer voltage passing through it. I suppose it'd have less effect on very large objects -- the damage would probably be localized, but still significant. Basically, you pack quite a wallop!\"\n\n\"Well, I guess the suit checks out,\" says Austin. \"We've tested every power mentioned in this notebook, and they all seem to work. I have no idea what Mom and Dad intended their original purpose to be, but they're not here to tell us, and the suits seem to fit us fine. So let me ask you this, Emily: How would you feel about using these suits to investigate the situation ourselves? I don't much feel like a superhero, but in a sense, that's what we are when we've got these suits on. Maybe we can explore avenues that aren't exactly open to the police. What do you say?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"\n3) \"We can't be superheroes! We don't know a thing about investigating a crime! How is shooting lightning and lifting heavy things going to find us clues that the police can't find?\"\n4) \"I can't be a superhero! I don't have long, flowing hair or gigantic breasts!\"\n5) \"You can't be a superhero! You're not covered with steroid-enhanced bulges!\"\n6) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm scared to death of fighting!\"\n7) \"We can't be superheroes without snazzy-sounding code names, now can we?\"\n8) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm in horrible shape! I probably couldn't even run around the block!\"\n9) \"We can't be superheroes! What if we get hurt?\"\n10) \"We can't be superheroes! How will we wear these suits without being noticed?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "Austin laughs. \"I don't think those things are really much of an asset in combat, do you? I bet you could demolish any of those Pam Anderson types.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"\n3) \"We can't be superheroes! We don't know a thing about investigating a crime! How is shooting lightning and lifting heavy things going to find us clues that the police can't find?\"\n4) \"You can't be a superhero! You're not covered with steroid-enhanced bulges!\"\n5) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm scared to death of fighting!\"\n6) \"We can't be superheroes without snazzy-sounding code names, now can we?\"\n7) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm in horrible shape! I probably couldn't even run around the block!\"\n8) \"We can't be superheroes! What if we get hurt?\"\n9) \"We can't be superheroes! How will we wear these suits without being noticed?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "Austin smirks, and rolls his eyes. \"Let's find Mom and Dad first, then I promise I'll subscribe to bodybuilding magazines and start cranking the anabolics. Okay?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"\n3) \"We can't be superheroes! We don't know a thing about investigating a crime! How is shooting lightning and lifting heavy things going to find us clues that the police can't find?\"\n4) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm scared to death of fighting!\"\n5) \"We can't be superheroes without snazzy-sounding code names, now can we?\"\n6) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm in horrible shape! I probably couldn't even run around the block!\"\n7) \"We can't be superheroes! What if we get hurt?\"\n8) \"We can't be superheroes! How will we wear these suits without being noticed?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "\"But Emily, we already have. Without the skysuit, would we ever have found that note Mom left? She must have used the suit herself to get it up there. Anyway, it's better than just sitting around waiting for something to happen. Right?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"\n3) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm scared to death of fighting!\"\n4) \"We can't be superheroes without snazzy-sounding code names, now can we?\"\n5) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm in horrible shape! I probably couldn't even run around the block!\"\n6) \"We can't be superheroes! What if we get hurt?\"\n7) \"We can't be superheroes! How will we wear these suits without being noticed?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "7", "response": "\"Yeah, the whole 'secret identity' problem. I always thought it was a little silly for comicbook superheroes to hide their identities, but maybe we ought to do that, at least until we find Mom and Dad. Otherwise, there might be a lot of uncomfortable suspicions around us, not to mention around Mom and Dad's research.\"\n\n\"I agree, but that doesn't answer my question,\" you say.\n\n\"Oh, right. Actually, Mom and Dad seem to have thought of that, too. I tested wearing street clothes over the earthsuit before you got here; when enough of the suit is covered, the visible parts fade into transparency, and the cowl does some kind of holo-projection thing so that your hair and face look normal, too. It's really cool. You should give it a try sometime. The only problem is that you can't use the suit's powers when it's covered like that -- I think it uses mostly photoreceptors to power itself. But that's probably for the best, since without the cowls visible it'd just look like us doing those superpower things. Anyway, I hope that addresses your objection.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"\n3) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm scared to death of fighting!\"\n4) \"We can't be superheroes without snazzy-sounding code names, now can we?\"\n5) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm in horrible shape! I probably couldn't even run around the block!\"\n6) \"We can't be superheroes! What if we get hurt?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "\"Cool code names, eh? Well, since it's an earthsuit and a skysuit that give us our powers, how about something that incorporates those elements? Like, I don't know... Earth-Man and Sky-Girl?\"\n\n\"First of all,\" you say, \"why is it that you get to be a Man, and I'm just a Girl? Also, Earth-Man sounds like something a Star Trek alien would call you.\"\n\n\"Okay, fine. What's your idea?\"\n\n\"I think rather than try to sound like cheesy comic book superheroes by appending things like 'Man' or 'Lass' or 'Captain' or whatever, we ought to keep it short and elegant. How about just Earth and Sky?\"\n\n\"Earth and Sky. I have to admit, those do sound pretty cool. Okay, Earth and Sky it is. So now that we have our cool code names, will you help me investigate this disappearance?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"\n3) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm scared to death of fighting!\"\n4) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm in horrible shape! I probably couldn't even run around the block!\"\n5) \"We can't be superheroes! What if we get hurt?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "\"Heh. I know what you mean. Still, with these suits, it's not like we really need to be in good shape. You can fly wherever you want to go, and this suit keeps me strong enough to run or jump or whatever without getting particularly winded. It probably wouldn't hurt us to start working out a little more, but it's not like we have to be Olympic athletes before we can use these suits.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"\n3) \"I can't be a superhero! I'm scared to death of fighting!\"\n4) \"We can't be superheroes! What if we get hurt?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Austin turns serious. \"Well me too, of course. Certainly we'll have an advantage over anybody we want to take on, but I have no illusions that it won't be dangerous. I'm scared, too. But I guess I just think that if we can find Mom and Dad, it'll be worth the risk.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"\n3) \"We can't be superheroes! What if we get hurt?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "\"What if Mom and Dad are already hurt?\" retorts Austin. \"Anything that happens to us couldn't be any worse than the fears I know we've both had about them. Don't we owe it to them to take that risk?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Okay, you've convinced me. Let's do it.\"\n2) \"No. I'm sorry, but I just think it's a bad idea.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "Austin looks crestfallen, but reaches out to pat you on the shoulder. \"Okay, Em. I understand, I really do. Why don't you just leave the suit here and head on home? I'll meet up with you tomorrow. Also, I'd appreciate it if you'd still talk to Aunt Nina tomorrow, and let me know what you find out. Sleep well, Emily.\"\n\nPart 2: Shake, Rattle, and Roar\n\nIt's hard to imagine how Nina Icolari ever became friends with your parents. Where they are serious and straightforward, even to the point of stuffiness, she's fun-loving and mischievous. Mom and Dad are night owls, while Nina works best early in the morning. Your parents drink Coke, she drinks Pepsi, and so on. But all those differences vanish inside the lab, where your goofy Aunt Nina suddenly metamorphoses into a world-class biologist, a driven scientist doing some of the most cutting-edge research in the field. When she's working, it's almost impossible to distract her with anything else, which makes your task today a difficult one...\n\nThis small chamber is an adjunct to the materials handling room, designed to allow observation and some degree of remote control over the equipment in that room. On the north wall is the long, rectangular pane of thick glass that separates the two rooms, and below that is a control panel. Opposite the edges of this large window, on the south side of the room, a couple of tall window-slats let in the sunlight. To the west is the door out to the hallway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na letter\na buzzer\nan access card\nyour sneakers (being worn)\na pair of sweat pants (being worn)\na sweatshirt (being worn)\na legal pad", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "This small chamber is an adjunct to the materials handling room, designed to allow observation and some degree of remote control over the equipment in that room. On the north wall is the long, rectangular pane of thick glass that separates the two rooms, and below that is a control panel. Opposite the edges of this large window, on the south side of the room, a couple of tall window-slats let in the sunlight. To the west is the door out to the hallway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the buzzer", "response": "Austin invented this gizmo. It's a plastic device, about the size and shape of a pencil, with a button on one end. When you push that button, the buzzer sends a signal to Austin, and the button flashes until he acknowledges the message. Then he'll come running to find you, following the buzzer's GPS signal. He asked you to take the buzzer this morning so that you could notify him immediately after you talk to Aunt Nina about the letter, or in case anything unusual comes up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the panel", "response": "This control panel rivals an airplane cockpit for complexity, and Aunt Nina hasn't trained you on a whole lot of its functions. The only controls you really know are a horizontal lever, a vertical lever, and a pale green switch. There is also a speaker and microphone built into the control panel so that people in the two rooms can talk to each other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at horizontal", "response": "The horizontal lever controls the containment chamber where samples are kept before transfer. Pulling the lever opens the chamber, and pushing it closes the chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at vertical", "response": "The vertical lever activates the security door for the materials handling room. If you pull it, a thick plate of lead alloy slides over the outside of the door, serving both as warning and protection for anyone outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pale green", "response": "Once a sealed container has been placed within the transfer chamber, the pale green switch activates a sterile transfer to the desired receptacle. The switch is currently in the OFF position.\n\nOne of the double-doors to the materials handling room opens, and in strides Aunt Nina. She's looking as beautiful as ever today, even with her dark hair pulled back into a severe bun.\n\n\"Hi Emily,\" she says, her voice sounding tinny through the control panel speakers. Her attention is focused on the containment chamber, and you get the sense that she's only barely aware of your presence. \"How are you today?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"I'm fine, thanks.\"\n2) \"Actually, I'm kind of reeling. Can I talk to you about it?\"\n3) \"I'm over here, Aunt Nina. That's the containment chamber you're talking to.\"\n4) \"Aunt Nina, I want to talk to you about this letter I found. It says you know something about Mom and Dad's disappearance.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"Good, good, I'm glad to hear it,\" says Aunt Nina distractedly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Nina", "response": "\"Aunt Nina, I really need to talk to you about something,\" you venture.\n\n\"Can it wait, please? Finishing this procedure is my top priority today, then we can talk.\"\n\n\"Well, I'd rather not wait...\"\n\n\"I need to ask you to wait today, Emily. Thanks for understanding.\"\n\n\"But Aunt Nina, I found a letter from Mom last night saying that you have information about where Mom and Dad are!\"\n\n\"I don't have time to write you a recommendation letter right now, Emily. Let's talk about it after the transfer,\" she says, her eyes on the transfer chamber controls.\n\n\"No, Aunt Nina, I said--\"\n\n\"Emily, please!\"\n\nYou lapse into silence rather than continue the fruitless conversation.\n\nThis is really very odd. Aunt Nina is always a little out of it when she's focused on a procedure, but you've never seen her quite this out of it.\n\nAunt Nina walks over to the containment chamber and starts inspecting it, talking to you all the time. You recognize this behavior -- you and Austin call it her Lecture Mode, and once it starts rolling, it's about as easy to stop as a speeding train.\n\n\"So, as I'm sure you remember, Emily, these experiments deal with bacteria that I'm convinced are at least 250 million years old. These guys were around millions of years before the first dinosaurs evolved, back when all the continents were in one smushed-together landmass called Pangaea. The bacteria have been trapped in a deposit of salt crystals since that time, and today's procedure is the next step in extracting the bacteria so that we can study them.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast nina", "response": "You can't blast anything until you put the skysuit back on.\n\n\"People have found living bacteria trapped in salt before,\" continues Aunt Nina, \"but their reports have been rejected because they couldn't prove that the microbes weren't actually contaminants from the lab. This time, though, we've taken extraordinary precautions -- everything has been in a sterile environment from the outset, and we've washed the salt crystals with both caustic bleach and acid. Then once the crystals are in the transfer chamber, we'll use sterilized equipment to drill inside them.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Nina", "response": "It's clearly pointless to even try talking to Aunt Nina right now.\n\nAunt Nina walks over to the transfer chamber and starts typing on the attached keyboard, double-checking the programming of its internal equipment. \"The bacteria actually live in tiny pockets of brine inside the crystals, so we'll extract that fluid and add some nutrients to see what grows. I think they've been able to survive this long because they were in a spore state, essentially shut down. But preliminary testing indicates that once these bacteria leave the spore state, they may be able to multiply astonishingly quickly.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the switch", "response": "Once a sealed container has been placed within the transfer chamber, the pale green switch activates a sterile transfer to the desired receptacle. The switch is currently in the OFF position.\n\n\"Of course, there is a danger that the radiation emitted by nearby rocks might have damaged the DNA of this bacteria sometime during its 250 million year journey, but without a metric for comparison, it may be hard to tell. In any case, it certainly raises interesting questions about the limits of life. Knowing that bacteria can survive for this long in such an unforgiving environment has even begun to make me wonder whether it's possible that they can hop from one planet to another -- who knows, perhaps these microbes have an extraterrestrial origin?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAunt Nina is still staring at the transfer chamber screen and typing furiously. She says, \"Alright Emily, let's get started. Please close the security door so that we can safely open the containment chamber.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Activating security door.\"\n2) \"Um... how do I do that again?\"\n3) \"Would you please stop talking for just a minute so I can ask you something?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "Aunt Nina gets up from the transfer chamber and starts leafing intensely through one of the notebooks she brought in with her. She doesn't answer you.\n\nA prickling feeling is creeping up the back of your skull. Something is definitely wrong with Aunt Nina.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull vertical", "response": "You hear a hum of servos, followed by a resonant thump. The red bulb lights up, indicating that the security door is closed.\n\n\"Excellent,\" says Aunt Nina. She sets the notebook down and walks over to the containment chamber. \"Now open the containment chamber, please.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Opening containment chamber.\"\n2) \"That's the horizontal lever, right?\"\n3) \"That's the pale green switch, right?\"\n4) \"That's the chartreuse trackball, right?\"\n5) \"It really doesn't matter what I say, does it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "\"Right, that's right,\" mumbles Aunt Nina, running a finger over one of her written calculations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull horizontal", "response": "With a hydraulic hiss, the containment chamber slides open.\n\nAunt Nina's eyes light up as the containment chamber reveals its prize. She reaches in to retrieve it, a circular steel platter sealed by a glass dome. Beneath that hemisphere of glass sits a milky crystal, about the size of both your fists held together.\n\nGingerly, she steps away and turns to face the transfer chamber, her eyes never leaving the crystal. She takes one step towards the transfer chamber, then stops.\n\nShe lifts her head as if listening for something, a confused look on her face. Then you hear it, too.\n\nIt sounds almost like distant thunder, but also wrong, and even as this thought reaches you, the walls are swaying and the ground bucking like ocean waves.\n\n\"EARTHQUAKE!\" you manage to shout, looking over at Aunt Nina. She is gripping the platter tightly, her face consumed by utter panic. Then a particularly violent tremor throws her from her feet, the glass dome shattering next to her face. Finally, with a tremendous KER-CHUNK, a piece of equipment falls between you and Aunt Nina, blocking your view of her as the tremors subside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Nina", "response": "The view through the window is blocked by a huge rectangle of black metal.\n\nNow you hear a new sound, a deep animal growl. It's quiet at first, but quickly crescendos into a mind-shatteringly loud RRROOOOOOOOOAAAAAAARRR!\n\nThen with a FA-FOOOOM! the ground is shaking again. The equipment that was blocking the large window falls onto its face, and you can see the materials handling room again. Except Aunt Nina isn't there. What's there is a monstrous leg the size of a redwood tree.\n\nAnd here you'd thought this day couldn't get any worse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the leg", "response": "[Please press a key to continue.]\n\nPart 3: Monster Mash", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the green", "response": "The earthquake has left its mark on the observation booth. A hole large enough to walk through has opened in the east wall, and a long crack has appeared in the large window pane to the north. The control panel beneath it seems relatively unscathed, as does the hallway door on the west side of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the leg", "response": "All you can see from here is the monster's leg, but that's more than enough to terrify you. It's green, and appears to be covered by thick, spiky shell plates. Even the toenails are obscenely huge and terrifying, five-foot cones tapering to lethally sharp points.\n\nBreathlessly, Austin arrives in the observation booth, wearing the earthsuit. \"Emily, thank goodness you're OK,\" he says, hugging you.\n\n\"Thanks for buzzing me,\" he says. \"I got suited up and came as soon as I got the message. What the hell is that thing?\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"I wish I knew -- Aunt Nina was transferring the salt crystal to the containment chamber when the quake happened. After the dust settled, this thing suddenly appeared!\"\n2) \"Would you believe... a really bad case of the prehistoric flu?\"\n3) \"What does it look like? It's a freaking huge green monster!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"Wait, she had the crystal in her hands when the quake happened?\" You nod.\n\n\"Aha,\" says Austin, a look of comprehension dawning on his face. \"Then I'll bet it cracked open next to her face, she inhaled those microbes, and here we have the results.\n\n\"So if we can kill the bacteria, we might get rid of the monster and get Aunt Nina back at the same time!\" concludes Austin. \"Well, I'm no microbiologist, but I've spent enough time in the lab with Aunt Nina that I may be able to whip up some kind of rapid antibiotic. But I'll need to use the equipment in Aunt Nina's lab. In the meantime, find a way to stop tall, green, and ugly from wrecking the campus -- knock her out if you can. I'm not sure we'll be able to medicate her while she's still conscious.\"\n\nAustin thrusts something into your hands. \"You'll probably need this,\" he says. \"I know you said you didn't want to, but I really can't see any other way. I'll be back as soon as I can!\"\n\nWith that, Austin sprints out through the hole in the wall, and you see him leaping over the biology building, heading towards Aunt Nina's lab on the other side of the building.\n\nLooks like it's up to you now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na skysuit\na letter\na buzzer\nan access card\nyour sneakers (being worn)\na pair of sweat pants (being worn)\na sweatshirt (being worn)\na legal pad", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the suit", "response": "[first removing the sweatshirt]\n\n[first removing the sweat pants]\n\n[first removing the sneakers]\n\nYou get back into the skysuit. Again, you feel the tingling in your scalp as you don the cowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the pants", "response": "You take off the sweat pants.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You're in the midst of changing clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the suit", "response": "[first removing the sweatshirt]\n\n[first removing the sneakers]\n\nYou get back into the skysuit. Again, you feel the tingling in your scalp as you don the cowl.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The earthquake has left its mark on the observation booth. A hole large enough to walk through has opened in the east wall, and a long crack has appeared in the large window pane to the north. The control panel beneath it seems relatively unscathed, as does the hallway door on the west side of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast crack", "response": "KER-POW! You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the window. There is now a large black scorch mark on the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "A long crack has appeared in the glass, but it still holds. What you can see through the glass makes you wish the view was still blocked. The window is also marred by scorch marks from your electrical blast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast window", "response": "KER-POW! You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the window. There is now another large black scorch mark on the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The campus biology building is a masterpiece of design, but it's just been made significantly less beautiful by the earthquake that's knocked a hole in its east wall. Then again, having a colossal green beast with one foot planted in the building won't win it a spread in Architectural Digest either.\n\nThe monster tries to remove its foot from the biology building, but the hole is much too small.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "The ground drops away as you soar upwards.\n\nYou are at the monster's knees, and you're starting to get a sense of what it must be like to be an insect. The massive legs dominate the landscape like twin towers, one rising out of a hole in the bio building's roof while the other decimates the sidewalk with stomps and scratches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast knees", "response": "The power crackles in your fingertips, and then a giant spark leaps between you and the monster's legs, with a thunderous KER-POW! The creature makes an unnerving high-pitched shriek as the bolt connects with its thigh.\n\nYou've got the monster's attention now, and its huge claw is hurtling towards you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fog yourself", "response": "Within moments, fog is swirling around you, but those moments are all the monster needs.\n\nWHAMMO! You twist to avoid the claws, but the flat of the monster's hand slams into you with unbelievable force. Your suit seems to absorb some of the impact by slowing your trajectory, but you're still sent flying into the library, landing with a crash that nearly knocks you silly.\n\nEverything is fading in and out, and you can't seem to focus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You start to flee from the scene, but hesitate. Aunt Nina is still missing. The creature is wreaking havoc. You and Austin may be the only ones who stand a chance of stopping it. Can you really abdicate that responsibility?\n\nAnother parked car crumples beneath the beast's stamping foot; this is sure to be a black day in the history of auto and building insurance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You soar higher, up to the monster's midsection.\n\nFloating in the air, eye level with the belly of the beast, it's hard not to imagine that belly containing the remains of anybody foolish enough to aggravate this creature. The monster's head looms menacingly above you, and its spiky legs descend like barbed towers to the ground.\n\nThe behemoth misses you, but that only seems to make it more determined. Another claw is coming at you like the Mortality Express.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast claw", "response": "KER-POW! You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the monster. The creature recoils slightly, squealing with surprise.\n\nWHAMMO! You twist to avoid the claws, but the flat of the monster's hand slams into you with unbelievable force. Your suit seems to absorb some of the impact by slowing your trajectory, but you're still sent flying into the library, landing with a crash that nearly knocks you silly.\n\nEverything is fading in and out, and you can't seem to focus.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You shake your head to clear out the last few cobwebs, and your vision snaps back into focus.\n\nYou have found yourself on the roof of the library. The heating and air-conditioning ducts have buckled and broken from the force of the quake, and the tarpaper beneath you feels hot and slippery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ascend", "response": "Girding yourself for battle once more, you fly back to the scene of the rampage.\n\nYou are at the monster's knees, and you're starting to get a sense of what it must be like to be an insect. The massive legs dominate the landscape like twin towers, one rising out of a hole in the bio building's roof while the other decimates the sidewalk with stomps and scratches.\n\nYou've got the monster's attention now, and its huge claw is hurtling towards you!\n\nIt looks like your blasts are affecting the creature -- its swipes are becoming more furious, and its howls more tinged with pain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You soar higher, up to the monster's midsection.\n\nFloating in the air, eye level with the belly of the beast, it's hard not to imagine that belly containing the remains of anybody foolish enough to aggravate this creature. The monster's head looms menacingly above you, and its spiky legs descend like barbed towers to the ground.\n\nThanks to your fancy flying, you've managed to avoid getting swatted, but there's no time to celebrate, because another claw is coming towards you!\n\nThe monster tries to remove its foot from the biology building, but the hole is much too small.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog monster", "response": "At your mental command, fog swirls around the monster. However, the creature is so mind-staggeringly large that by the time the fog covers his length, it has thinned into wisps of vapor that blow away at the monster's next roar.\n\nWHAMMO! This time you're too slow to avoid the claw, and pain razors through you as the point penetrates your calf. As you sail towards the library, you notice that the suit has sealed itself over the wound and applied pressure to stop the bleeding. Then you're slamming into the roof, and everything goes black for just a moment.\n\nYou can't take much more of this.\n\nEverything is fading in and out, and you can't seem to focus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shake head", "response": "Your vision is swimming, and you're too dazed to do anything but lie still for a moment.\n\nYou shake your head to clear out the last few cobwebs, and your vision snaps back into focus.\n\nYou have found yourself on the roof of the library. The heating and air-conditioning ducts have buckled and broken from the force of the quake, and the tarpaper beneath you feels hot and slippery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Girding yourself for battle once more, you fly back to the scene of the rampage.\n\nYou are at the monster's knees, and you're starting to get a sense of what it must be like to be an insect. The massive legs dominate the landscape like twin towers, one rising out of a hole in the bio building's roof while the other decimates the sidewalk with stomps and scratches.\n\nYou've got the monster's attention now, and its huge claw is hurtling towards you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You soar higher, up to the monster's midsection.\n\nFloating in the air, eye level with the belly of the beast, it's hard not to imagine that belly containing the remains of anybody foolish enough to aggravate this creature. The monster's head looms menacingly above you, and its spiky legs descend like barbed towers to the ground.\n\nThe behemoth misses you, but that only seems to make it more determined. Another claw is coming at you like the Mortality Express.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Wind streaming through your hair, you zoom upwards.\n\nThe creature's close-set yellow eyes burn with anger as you hover in front of its face. From here, the thing's fetid breath washes over you like a tidal wave of swamp gas, and its roars are louder than jet engines. The ground seems very far below you now.\n\nThanks to your fancy flying, you've managed to avoid getting swatted, but there's no time to celebrate, because another claw is coming towards you!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fog eyes", "response": "At your mental command, fog swirls around the monster's eyes, silently engulfing them in thick, grey vapor. The creature squeals in confusion as it loses its sight.\n\nThe creature is flying into a frenzy, clutching its eyes with one hand and lashing out randomly with the other. Its feet stomp in fury, leveling trees and cars. Better take this beast down, and fast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast monster", "response": "KER-POW! You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the monster. The blast strikes home between two armor-plates, and the creature screams in pain and rage.\n\nThe beast reels back for a moment, temporarily stunned by the cumulative electrical power you've directed at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast monster", "response": "KER-POW! You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the monster. The bolt hits thick green hide, creating an impressive scorch mark but failing to do much actual damage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast eyes", "response": "The monster is thrashing about wildly in its blindness, and your lightning bolt misses its eyes.\n\nThe beast's claws dig deep furrows in the concrete sidewalks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast claws", "response": "KER-POW! You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the monster. You make the mistake of looking directly at the lightning, and are blinded for a moment. When your vision clears, the monster seems to be bleeding slightly where you hit it.\n\nThe creature picks up a stray car and throws it in your general direction. The car misses you, but slams into the side of the library, shaking that building's walls.\n\nThe monster is wounded now in several places, and a sickly smoke drifts upward from the cauterized spots beneath its armor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast face", "response": "KER-POW! You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the monster's head. The beast emits a keening wail and clutches the side of its head in torment.\n\nThe creature picks up a stray car and throws it in your general direction. The car misses you, but slams into the side of the library, shaking that building's walls.\n\nThe fog lifts, and the monster's eyes are visible again.\n\nThe thing is stomping, swinging its arms, and bleating despair at its inability to stop the pain. It reminds you of nothing so much as a boxer, badly beaten and on the ropes.\n\nAnother parked car crumples beneath the beast's stamping foot; this is sure to be a black day in the history of auto and building insurance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast face", "response": "KER-POW! You extend your hand, and a sizzling bolt of bright blue electricity arcs between you and the monster's head. The beast emits a keening wail and clutches the side of its head in torment.\n\nThe monster screams its frustration at not being able to find and crush you.\n\nThe creature is swaying now, its voice ragged. Deadly claws still search for you, but you get the sense that the beast can't last much longer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "KER-POW! Your blast strikes the monster, and its head rocks back. It staggers, drops to one knee (crushing half the gymnasium in the process). Finally, with a long, foghorn groan, it falls forward, landing with its face planted in the football field.\n\nThe creature lies motionless. Suddenly, a streak of grey appears, arcing over the stadium wall -- it's Austin! He lands by the creature's head, and motions for you to join him. Relief singing through your veins, you alight on the field next to your brother.\n\nYou are standing on the fifty-yard line of the University stadium, or at least what's left of it after the colossal green monster fell headlong onto the field. Something tells you that your student fees may be going towards an Astroturf installation some time soon.\n\nYou can see the monster's head and Austin here.\n\nAustin hands you a liquid-filled balloon. \"That's got the supercharged antibiotic inside. It's not the world's finest delivery system, but it was the best I could improvise on short notice. The monster will have to ingest it, so it looks like I'll need to lift the head while you throw the balloon at its mouth.\"\n\nWithout waiting for you to respond, he walks around to the creature's brow, slips his fingers underneath, and heaves. \"URRGH! Hurry, Emily! This head is even heavier than it looks!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the balloon", "response": "That's plainly inedible.\n\n\"Hurry!\" says Austin. \"It's slipping!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the balloon in the mouth", "response": "The liquid-filled balloon sails into the creature's mouth, causing the beast to swallow reflexively. When the mouth opens again, the liquid-filled balloon is gone.\n\nSeeing that the creature has swallowed its medicine, Austin steps back from the head, which drops with an earthshaking CRASH! You both watch the creature intently, as it lifts its head to regard you, not with anger now, but with puzzlement.\n\nAnd then you notice: the creature is shrinking. Its skin thins, wrinkles, deepens from its greenish cast to the rich brown of Aunt Nina's skin. Soon it is only a dazed Aunt Nina before you, naked and shivering. You quickly retrieve your sweatshirt and pants, and Austin helps you put the clothes onto her.\n\nShe embraces you and your brother in a fierce hug. \"Oh Austin, Emily!\" she cries. \"I remember now! On the same day that Claire and Scott disappeared these... things found me in my lab. They did something to my brain -- wiped out my memory, put all my focus on the experiment. But whatever happened to me just now must have broken their mental constraints.\" You show her the letter, and she scans it, nodding. \"Yes, yes! It's true -- I do have information that I know can help you find your parents. Oh Emily, I'm so sorry I couldn't give it to you before now!\"\n\nYou look over at Austin, and he nods. \"You'll have plenty of time to talk to us, Aunt Nina, but what you need right now is rest,\" he says. Then he gathers her into his powerful arms, and leaps over the stadium wall, heading for home. You're about to fly after him, when you catch sight of a reporter and a camera operator, scrambling through the rubble towards you. \"Miss! Wait -- miss!\" the reporter shouts, thrusting a microphone into your face. \"Can you give us a statement? What happened here? Who are you?\"\n\nYou smile. \"Call us Earth and Sky,\" you say, and then take to the air, flying home faster than any news copter can follow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nAustin's muscles are shaking with exertion. \"Emily, I can't hold on much longer!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"I'm losing it!\" cries Austin, and steps back from the head, which drops with an earthshaking CRASH! The creature groans, and Austin shoots a look of pure frustration at you. \"Come on, Emily! I can't hold the head up and deliver the antibiotic! Your part isn't difficult, so do it, before this thing wakes up again!\" He bends his knees, grips the monster's brow, and hauls the enormous head up again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe monster groans again, and Austin has to scramble into a new position as the great head begins to stir. \"Emily!\" he shouts desperately.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blast monster", "response": "You rear back to blast the creature once again, but then you remember that Austin is holding it -- what if his suit's shock resistance isn't up to par?\n\nA mammoth eye flicks open, regarding you with vague hatred.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nWith unexpected speed, the creature snaps its head up, and closes its immense mouth on you! Looks like you're delivering the antibiotic after all, but you probably won't survive the trip.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are hovering in the air, several stories above the lab floor. The beams and girders of the ceiling are so close you could touch them, and the windows display a magnificent view of the campus and ocean. Far below, Austin looks up at you from amid a sea of equipment. Good thing you're not afraid of heights.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "As smoothly as you rose, you descend once more.\n\nYou are in Mom and Dad's lab. As usual, the majority of the equipment in this enormous space is more or less a mystery to you. Also here are a few tables and terminals; a ring of windows near the ceiling looks out on the distant stars. Doors lead south into the storage room and west into the hallway.\n\nThe hallway door is closed.\n\nThe storage room door is open.\n\nYou can also see Austin here.\n\n\"Well, it's clear that the flying functionality is operational,\" says Austin.\n\n\"Now let's test out some of that suit's other capabilities. The notes mention a fog power -- the flying worked when you decided to fly, so let's see what happens when you try to fog something. Why don't we start by having you just think FOG? I have a hunch that will probably cloud up the general area.\"\n\nPlease select a reply:\n\n1) \"Sure thing.\"\n2) \"Oh, there's a useful superpower. 'They're getting away! Quick, Fog-Woman, worsen their driving conditions!'\"\n3) \"Okay, but all this moisture had better not make my hair really frizzy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the beams", "response": "The ceiling is braced by a pattern of struts and beams, all made of steel and painted an industrial maroon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at equipment", "response": "The equipment is just as baffling from the top-down view.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Horror", "Surreal" ]

[ "afterlife", "alternate reality", "alternative endings", "amnesia", "Christianity", "dream", "female protagonist", "hell", "IF Competition 2012", "IFComp Game", "London", "male protagonist", "multiple endings", "multiple protagonists", "mystery", "psychological", "surreal", "Terrorism", "violence", "walkthrough", "wasps" ]

[ 0, 10, 6, 0, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "[ Hint: important commands are THINK and REMEMBER ]\n\nAnd then you hear something. The low, steady rumbling of a train. As your eyelids slowly peel back, you feel like you're swimming up to the surface of a deep, black ocean. For a while, the disorientation is overwhelming, and you can't think about anything. But once you start thinking, you can't stop.\n\nIt's dark, and the only artificial light is flickering, but it doesn't take much light for you to know that you're in trouble. Most of your body is numb. Directly opposite you is a man, plastered with fear, gagged. His arms are tied to his sides, his legs bound together in three different places. The numbness gives way to pain, as though needles are shooting out of all your blood vessels and you start to feel more than just your pounding heart: the tight ropes digging into you, the rigid metal floor, the stale air, the gag over your mouth.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You can see your legs stretched out in front of you, tied together at the ankles, shins and thighs with thick ropes that really seem to bite into your skin. Just looking at it makes you shuffle in discomfort, but it doesn't make it any better. In the dark light you can't tell if you're wearing blue jeans or black ones - you think black - but either way they're very dusty. You look down at your similarly hue-ambiguous sweater, which is also marked by tight ropes around your upper and lower arms. Your mouth is covered by a patch that is stuck right over your lips: you can only make muffled, incoherent groaning noises.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You look around again. The carriage is small and is practically empty. On the floor in front of you is a sea of dead wasps - there's not a live one to be found. You look over at your only living companion, tied up and leaning against the wall opposite you. Your eyes meet, and you try to convey sympathy, and you try to read sympathy from his, but that wouldn't do either of you any good even if you could\nhide the fear. The light flickers off for a second, sending you temporarily into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wasps", "response": "Disgustingly, there are about a hundred dead things on the floor - concentrated in the centre of the carriage - bobbing up and down with the train's movement in a grotesque dance. They're bigger than wasps, and they're red, with menacing needles for stinging. It's a good thing they're all dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "You look over at your only companion. He's looking as battered as you feel, with disheveled black hair, a grimy face and crumpled clothes, dusty and discoloured. He's not agitated, or nervous, but you can just about see a forlorn, almost despairing expression if you catch his eyes at the right moment. Something about him is familiar, but you're damned if you know what it is.\n\n[ To switch perspective, use the BE command. ]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Your legs are tied together at the ankles, shins and thighs with thick ropes that really seem to bite into your skin. In the dark light you can't tell if you're wearing blue jeans or black ones - you think black - but either way they're very dusty. Further ropes bind your upper and lower arms, and you can feel your dry skin and lips where the gag is stuck over them.\n\nPanic is setting in. Breathing getting heavy, blood pumping faster and faster. Thoughts and possibilities, each more frightening than the last, are starting to bombard you, and frankly, you'd rather die and be free of it forever. Each dread is coming at you, like a spectre from the air that wants to wrap its cold hands around your brain and banish you to a place of endless torment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "For a moment, everything is blank. Tabula rasa. You could be anyone - a terrorist, a psychopath, a drug addict, a prostitute, a mugger. But then memories flood in all at once, as if you'd asked to borrow a lighter and got your house set on fire instead. You're Helen Wright. You can picture the faces of your mum and dad and your older sister Mary in your house in London; you can see the bright white walls of that house - everything white and pristine, like a hospital; you can see yourself playing with dolls at the foot of your bed; you can see yourself telling Mary to leave you alone; you see the park, you're on the swings, you're down the slide, you're on your own, playing with the playground grass; you're at school, you're scribbling in your book, you're the last one out of the classroom, and the first one in. You're eight years old, and the memories are still coming...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Faster and faster, your memories are coming back, and you can't keep up with them. Then, suddenly, they stop. The last one is just an ordinary day on the London Underground and you're going to lectures. How did you get from there to here? That can't be the end - that can't have been the last thing that happened. Unless perhaps some random madman came along, beat you up and locked you in here. But who would want to kidnap you? There's nothing special about you - far from it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "There aren't any particular memories going through your head at the moment. [ You can REMEMBER things. If you see something in bold\nprint in the description of a memory, then you can use the remember command with that too. ]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "You know who you are now: Helen Wright, just another horrible person. Your memories have come back, though apparently not all of them.\n\nThere's a sudden clanging noise, and the room flashes momentarily red. Your heart rate goes up. Something's happening. The red light keeps flashing in a regular cycle, and two small vents opens on the wall, just little circular holes. There's the sound of rushing air, and you fear what might come out of those dark tubes. You feel a certain warmth in the air as it hits you, and a vile, acrid smell. It's certainly not the ventilation. Then the flashing light suddenly stops, the vent covers slide back into place, and the train rumbles on along as though nothing happened at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You be the the man", "response": "Carriage (as Ross)\nWhen you look around again, the most striking thing is the floor: dozens of dead insects are scattered around it, and you can't see a single living one. What does that mean? That you've been here for ages? Or is there a fly trap? You try not to dwell on it, and look around the whole carriage. It's not big, and it doesn't take long to realise that there's nothing else here, except the other captive and the flickering light. The shadows are deep, oppressive. The noise of the train's movement is a dull but constant clanking. The air is stale.\n\nYou try to think about what happened. But nothing is coming. Literally, nothing. And who is that over there?\n\nSince it doesn't seem like anything is happening, you wonder if it might be OK to get some sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "Who are you? The question bounces around in your mind for a moment, with no answer forthcoming. But then it's as though someone opens a tap, and things start trickling back. Your name is Ross. You can see your flat in London, your mum and dad, arguing, doors slamming, crumpled pieces of paper on the floor. There's your brother, hitting and kicking you, and you trying to fight back. You can see yourself, six or seven years old, looking at a large rash, going to the hospital. But then the memories stop, and you feel drained. For God's sake, why is this so hard to remember? It's there, and it's coming back, but it's just so much effort to get it.\n\nAs your mind begins to wake up, thoughts and possibilities start whirling around, bombarding and confusing you. Your limbs feel so stiff, but are slowly getting better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "It really is as bad as it feels. Your arms are bound to your sides with one rope that crosses your chest and one over the stomach, and both are hurting like hell as they dig into your skin through your shirt. You wouldn't rate your chances of being able to wriggle free, and you don't think you could even move anywhere: three more ropes are bound tightly around your ankles, shins and thighs. The worst thing, though, is the thick tape covering your mouth. If it ever does come off, it'll probably rip off your lips with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine her", "response": "She looks frightened, of course. Her eyes are wide and she's looking around everywhere, presumably trying to see a way out. There's something familiar about her, but you don't know what it is.\nShe's quite tall. Very, very pale. Shoulder-length brown hair. You get the impression that it's only as tangled as it is because of the situation - knocked out, gagged, tied up and thrown into this place. You flinch just thinking about it. You hope this isn't your fault. You don't know why it would be.\n\nYou're feeling quite sleepy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're not getting anywhere by being awake, so you don't think it will matter to try getting some sleep. It's hardly comfortable, but it isn't noisy - in fact it's far quieter than London. You push yourself over onto your side and shut your eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake", "response": "The beast hisses. Something rips through you, wrenching out your soul, which floats through the vacuum of space to become part of the machine. There's the Earth, with a whirlwind of nature being sucked into one end of the machine, and there's a big tube running along the top of it, until it gets to the beast at the other end. The beast snarls. It wants more, and then more still, and then more and more, and the machine has to go faster and faster. It has your soul now too. You're being pulled in towards the machine, and you don't want to go there, you don't want to! The beast roars.\n\nPlatform (as Ross)\nYou're on a ledge jutting out from the machine, a metal platform. You get a real sense of the enormity of the machine from this perspective, as it stretches as far as you can see in both directions. The Earth and the beast themselves are just out of sight.\n\nThere's an unusual archway in the east wall, which is doing something to the light so that you can't see through it.\n\nYou're not going to sell yourself to the machine. You've got to get your soul back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ledge", "response": "Platform (as Ross)\nYou're on a ledge jutting out from the machine, a metal platform. You get a real sense of the enormity of the machine from this perspective, as it stretches as far as you can see in both directions. The Earth and the beast themselves are just out of sight.\n\nThere's an unusual archway in the east wall, which is doing something to the light so that you can't see through it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the archway", "response": "The archway in the east wall is an unusual shape, and is distorting the light so much that you can't see through it. The edges are very clearly defined though, so that the whole thing looks a bit like a sticker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "It's a monstrosity, groaning and clanking and humming as it tears away all the beauty from the Earth. The machine gets ever faster, to satisfy the growing hunger of the beast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel sticker", "response": "You feel around the edges of the arch, then peel it away, removing the way to the east. You now have a sickle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sickle", "response": "A dependable worker's tool. You got it by removing an arch from the wall.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Platform (as Ross)\nYou're on a ledge jutting out from the machine, a metal platform. You get a real sense of the enormity of the machine from this perspective, as it stretches as far as you can see in both directions. The Earth and the beast themselves are just out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You bang your fist against the closed wall of the machine. It feels somehow delicate, as though it could easily be cut open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sickle on the wall", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the east wall", "response": "The closed wall of the machine. It looks somehow spongy, as though you could easily cut into it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sickle", "response": "You expropriate the sickle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the wall", "response": "[ You should specify a compass direction. ]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut east", "response": "You plunge the sickle into the wall, and it cuts itself into the shape of an arch, leading east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look east", "response": "The archway in the east wall is an unusual shape, and is distorting the light so much that you can't see through it. The edges are very clearly defined though, so that the whole thing looks a bit like a sticker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Machine Room: West (as Ross)\nComplicated machinery is everywhere, clunking and scraping and turning and chugging away at the task of destroying the planet. At the north end of the room is a single stake, standing upright, and just beyond it is a gap in the floor, so that you can see through to the void of space below. A set of stairs leads up, and the machine room itself extends eastward.\n\nAn archway leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machinery", "response": "Cogs are turning, machines whirring, lights flashing and pistons hammering, in service to the beast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stairs", "response": "A long, metal staircase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "The archway in the west wall is an unusual shape, and is distorting the light so much that you can't see through it. The edges are very clearly defined though, so that the whole thing looks a bit like a sticker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pole", "response": "You give the stake an experimental wobble, and it looks like it would come free, but you think it would make more sense to complete the pair, rather than remove it completely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Machine Room: Central (as Ross)\nGiant cogs are turning, forming a messy pattern that snakes around the room, interspersed with other machines whose function is entirely opaque to you. Some are spewing steam, some are making horrid squelching noises, some have bright flashing lights. There is a wall to the east, and many of the cogs cut right through it. You can go back to the west.\n\nA small crystal is here - a part of your soul ready to be taken back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "This part of you is encased in crystal, and you snatch it up from the floor, wondering where the other pieces might be. They're probably in the clutches of the machine already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cogs", "response": "You walk up close to one of the machines. A face stares back at you, anguished and pale, frozen in the act of screaming. You step back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the east wall", "response": "(the patch on the wall)\nThere's a wall to the east, but some of the cogs and other machines cut right through it, so maybe there is another area on the other side. What's more, there's a rectangular patch on the wall where a door might once have been.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "There's a wall to the east, but some of the cogs and other machines cut right through it, so maybe there is another area on the other side. What's more, there's a rectangular patch on the wall where a door might once have been.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Machine Room: West (as Ross)\nComplicated machinery is everywhere, clunking and scraping and turning and chugging away at the task of destroying the planet. At the north end of the room is a single stake, standing upright, and just beyond it is a gap in the floor, so that you can see through to the void of space below. A set of stairs leads up, and the machine room itself extends eastward.\n\nAn archway leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peel", "response": "What do you want to peel?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sticker", "response": "You feel around the edges of the arch, then peel it away, removing the way to the west. You now have a sickle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Machine Room: Central (as Ross)\nGiant cogs are turning, forming a messy pattern that snakes around the room, interspersed with other machines whose function is entirely opaque to you. Some are spewing steam, some are making horrid squelching noises, some have bright flashing lights. There is a wall to the east, and many of the cogs cut right through it. You can go back to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Machine Room: East (as Ross)\nIt's a continuation of the machine room, with more of the squeaking, pulsing mechanisms and gizmos. A trapdoor in the floor leads into darkness via a ladder. Emanating from it is a symphony of slicing, cutting and crashing sounds, and there's a machine up here that's buzzing and shaking in time with it.\n\nAn archway leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gizmos", "response": "Cogs are turning, machines whirring, lights flashing and pistons hammering, in service to the beast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Machine", "response": "The machine is buzzing, whirring and even shaking. No wires are visible, but there's a raised bit of the floor connecting the machine to the hole in the floor. You imagine this machine is controlling the slicing you can hear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Ok.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You look down the hole. The ladder just vanishes into blackness, but you can hear the sounds of slicing blades and other destructive machinery. Now, now. Let's hold on for... just a moment longer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the north wall", "response": "There are just more machines that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the Machine off", "response": "There are no visible controls on the machine. You'll have to take a more physical approach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ladder", "response": "There's a trapdoor in the floor with a ladder that leads down into darkness. The music of slashing, grinding and cutting is emanating from it. There's a raised part of the floor connecting the hole to a particularly loud machine here in the room, which you assume is in control of the slicing action.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the west", "response": "You've cut an archway through the wall there, so you can go to the rest of the machine room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You fall through the hole, and drop into space outside the machine. You can't scream, and you can't breathe.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You bolt awake. Still in the train carriage, trundling along. You manage to push yourself back into a sitting position.\n\nCarriage (as Ross)\nThe metal carriage is a deep grey with shadowy corners, and the fluorescent lamp on the ceiling is on the blink, so that every so often you're sent into total darkness. Your only company is the girl opposite you and a sea of dead wasps. You don't know where you're going or how you got here.\n\nThere's that clanking sound again. As before, a red light fills the room every second, and little vents open on the walls. There's the sound of rushing air, a horrid smell, and then they shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vents", "response": "You can just about see the outline of the circular covers of those tubes. You have no idea what they're for, but the way that red light comes on and the way the air gets so foul when they're open suggests that they're not your friends.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're not getting anywhere by being awake, so you don't think it will matter to try getting some sleep. It's hardly comfortable, but it isn't noisy - in fact it's far quieter than London. You push yourself over onto your side and shut your eyes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Machine Room: East (as Ross)\nIt's a continuation of the machine room, with more of the squeaking, pulsing mechanisms and gizmos. A trapdoor in the floor leads into darkness via a ladder. Emanating from it is a symphony of slicing, cutting and crashing sounds, and there's a machine up here that's buzzing and shaking in time with it.\n\nAn archway leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut west", "response": "You plunge the sickle into the wall, and it cuts itself into the shape of an arch, leading west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Machine Room: Central (as Ross)\nGiant cogs are turning, forming a messy pattern that snakes around the room, interspersed with other machines whose function is entirely opaque to you. Some are spewing steam, some are making horrid squelching noises, some have bright flashing lights. There is a wall to the east, and many of the cogs cut right through it. You can go back to the west.\n\nAn archway leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Machine Room: West (as Ross)\nComplicated machinery is everywhere, clunking and scraping and turning and chugging away at the task of destroying the planet. At the north end of the room is a single stake, standing upright, and just beyond it is a gap in the floor, so that you can see through to the void of space below. A set of stairs leads up, and the machine room itself extends eastward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You climb the stairs, and the stairs themselves fly upwards, so that with each footfall you're much higher up. Eventually the staircase halts, and you step off onto a platform.\n\nBeneath the Pipe (as Ross)\nYou're standing on a small platform, watching severed parts of Earth shoot past through the pipe just above you that leads to the beast. By this point in their processing, things are barely recognisable as belonging to Nature - there are some earthy colours and familiar shapes, but it's mostly just a kind of tangled mush. Bits of it escape the flow and trickle onto the floor, creating a pungent deathly odour. A tiny ladder will take you right into the flow.\n\nThere's a loud sucking noise, and a small crystal suddenly drops out of the flow, strangely intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crystal", "response": "(the piece of soul)\nYou're not sure it'll ever be the same after being ravaged by the beast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "Now you've got two of these soul things. Something tells you there are seven in total... at least, that's what you're going to aim for.\n\nYou suddenly see a burst of colour floating past you, and it turns out to be a glass sphere drifting up towards the pipe. Presumably someone's soul is within. You have no time to save it before it is caught by the flow and vanishes down the tube.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine flow", "response": "Material from the Earth is gushing through this pipe, on its way to the beast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ladder", "response": "A little ladder leads up to the material surging through the tube.\n\nYou suddenly catch sight of a human face, burnt and disfigured, shooting past in the tube.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Is this really the only option? You hesitate a minute and let the Earth gush past your eyes. Then you step in. The flow instantly arrests you, seizes you, hurls you, compacts you, bashes you, forces you into compliance. The beast and its insatiable hunger is waiting. Waiting for you.\n\n\"Hello, lost one,\" it hisses. \"You should have known there's no escape...\"\n\nYou fly between its jaws and for a moment find yourself hanging at the top of its digestive tract, looking down at a fiery, rocky end. Then you scream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "You bolt awake. Still in the train carriage, trundling along. You manage to push yourself back into a sitting position.\n\nCarriage (as Ross)\nThe metal carriage is a deep grey with shadowy corners, and the fluorescent lamp on the ceiling is on the blink, so that every so often you're sent into total darkness. Your only company is the girl opposite you and a sea of dead wasps. You don't know where you're going or how you got here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're not getting anywhere by being awake, so you don't think it will matter to try getting some sleep. It's hardly comfortable, but it isn't noisy - in fact it's far quieter than London. You push yourself over onto your side and shut your eyes.\nBeneath the Pipe (as Ross)\nYou're standing on a small platform, watching severed parts of Earth shoot past through the pipe just above you that leads to the beast. By this point in their processing, things are barely recognisable as belonging to Nature - there are some earthy colours and familiar shapes, but it's mostly just a kind of tangled mush. Bits of it escape the flow and trickle onto the floor, creating a pungent deathly odour. A tiny ladder will take you right into the flow.\n\nYou suddenly catch sight of a human face, burnt and disfigured, shooting past in the tube.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get on the pipe", "response": "Are they right? Is there no other way? You hesitate a minute and let the Earth gush past your eyes. Then you step in. The flow instantly arrests you, seizes you, hurls you, compacts you, bashes you, forces you into compliance. The beast and its insatiable hunger is waiting. Waiting for you.\n\n\"Hello, lost one,\" it hisses. \"You should have known there's no escape...\"\n\nYou fly between its jaws and for a moment find yourself hanging at the top of its digestive tract, looking down at a fiery, rocky end. Then you scream.\nYou bolt awake. Still in the train carriage, trundling along. You manage to push yourself back into a sitting position.\n\nCarriage (as Ross)\nThe metal carriage is a deep grey with shadowy corners, and the fluorescent lamp on the ceiling is on the blink, so that every so often you're sent into total darkness. Your only company is the girl opposite you and a sea of dead wasps. You don't know where you're going or how you got here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're not getting anywhere by being awake, so you don't think it will matter to try getting some sleep. It's hardly comfortable, but it isn't noisy - in fact it's far quieter than London. You push yourself over onto your side and shut your eyes.\nBeneath the Pipe (as Ross)\nYou're standing on a small platform, watching severed parts of Earth shoot past through the pipe just above you that leads to the beast. By this point in their processing, things are barely recognisable as belonging to Nature - there are some earthy colours and familiar shapes, but it's mostly just a kind of tangled mush. Bits of it escape the flow and trickle onto the floor, creating a pungent deathly odour. A tiny ladder will take you right into the flow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ladder", "response": "A little ladder leads up to the material surging through the tube.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine material", "response": "This material has been sucked out of the Earth and processed into a barely recognisable mush. Every so often a human form, or just a face flashes past, usually disfigured, burnt and incomplete. Except for the bits that have slipped out and coated the floor in a deathly crust, it's all headed for the beast's stomach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ladder", "response": "It seems to be firmly attached there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the material", "response": "You wouldn't be able to scrape up the bits that have fallen out of the stream, and besides, it's too late to save it now.\n\nA burnt body shoots through the flow of material in the tube above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\n2 pieces of soul (of 7)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat soul", "response": "Disgusting thought. Not even going to try.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Descend", "response": "As you climb down the stairs, the entire staircase shoots down, landing in the huge machine room you came from.\n\nMachine Room: West (as Ross)\nComplicated machinery is everywhere, clunking and scraping and turning and chugging away at the task of destroying the planet. At the north end of the room is a single stake, standing upright, and just beyond it is a gap in the floor, so that you can see through to the void of space below. A set of stairs leads up, and the machine room itself extends eastward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You climb the stairs, and the stairs themselves fly upwards, so that with each footfall you're much higher up. Eventually the staircase halts, and you step off onto a platform.\n\nBeneath the Pipe (as Ross)\nYou're standing on a small platform, watching severed parts of Earth shoot past through the pipe just above you that leads to the beast. By this point in their processing, things are barely recognisable as belonging to Nature - there are some earthy colours and familiar shapes, but it's mostly just a kind of tangled mush. Bits of it escape the flow and trickle onto the floor, creating a pungent deathly odour. A tiny ladder will take you right into the flow.\n\nA burnt body shoots through the flow of material in the tube above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Can you honestly say you're above all this? Ross, you're an idiot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "Remember? Was there a past?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You be helen", "response": "Carriage (as Helen)\nIt's a grey, metal carriage, only slightly longer than it is wide. There's no window, so the only light is from a slim fluorescent lamp in the ceiling that flickers every so often, periodically plunging you into darkness.The floor is littered with dead wasps, but they're not you're only company: a man, probably in his early twenties, is in the same state, leaning against the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're feeling surprisingly tired, so even though you'd rather not be off your guard in a situation like this, you can't be bothered to worry about it. You fall down onto your side, shut your eyes, and try to let the train's steady movement send you off.\nYou're walking up the mountain along with all the other dead people, heading for judgement at the summit. Grimy fear and sweat-soaked resignation are trooping up with you. The dust sweeps around your head and blinds you every now and then until you blink. Suddenly, you're at the top. There are countless books open on the table. A bony hand is holding your book in front of your eyes.\n\n\"NO!\" the judge shrieks, and you're thrown forwards, and the book is flying with you. As you soar through the air, you can see its pages fluttering down over the rocky landscape. You manage to snatch one from the air just before you crash into the mountainside and roll over and over, and stop yourself before you shoot over into the pit of fire below.\n\nMountainside (as Helen)\nYou're looking out upon the enormous pit of fire surrounding the mountain. Rocks of various sizes litter the ground, and an acrid dust suffuses your senses. It looks like you could probably scramble down to the south without much injury. Up above, the judgement continues.\n\nYou hear a noise from up the mountain, and see a colourful glass sphere tumbling down towards you. The sphere instantly smashes into a million shards, which disappear in the dust.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look at yourself and immediately look away. You don't want to be reminded of what an ugly thing you are. You're wearing shitty clothes as usual and are taking up too much of the universe's precious space with your good-for-nothing body.\n\nYou don't know why, but something's telling you that you want your book back. You want to see your life, work out where you went wrong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na page", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the page", "response": "A page from your book, a piece of you. But the words are blurred and you can't read them properly. Maybe if you were awake you'd be able to concentrate on it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake", "response": "Suddenly you're awake, and you struggle back into a sitting position, but it feels like you've just come from one nightmare to another. Images and memories from your dreams are parading through your mind, as if you didn't have enough torment. [ Use the REMEMBER command,\nwith or without a memory. ]\n\nCarriage (as Helen)\nIt's a grey, metal carriage, only slightly longer than it is wide. There's no window, so the only light is from a slim fluorescent lamp in the ceiling that flickers every so often, periodically plunging you into darkness.The floor is littered with dead wasps, but they're not you're only company: a man, probably in his early twenties, is in the same state, leaning against the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're feeling surprisingly tired, so even though you'd rather not be off your guard in a situation like this, you can't be bothered to worry about it. You fall down onto your side, shut your eyes, and try to let the train's steady movement send you off.\nMountainside (as Helen)\nYou're looking out upon the enormous pit of fire surrounding the mountain. Rocks of various sizes litter the ground, and an acrid dust suffuses your senses. It looks like you could probably scramble down to the south without much injury. Up above, the judgement continues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rock", "response": "The whole landscape is strewn with dusty rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the rock", "response": "You touch one, and find that it's too hot to handle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: South (as Helen)\nDown here, the pit of fire attacks all your senses at once, your eyes with its intense colour, your ears with the sound of its bubbling and popping, your skin with its searing heat. Just a short distance away over the fire is a small island with a small church on it, and indeed no room for anything else. You can reach it by a wooden bridge to the southeast, which is held up by two anchoring poles lodged into the ground. There are also paths around the base of the mountain to the west and east, and a way back up to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine pole", "response": "The bridge is connected to two anchors on this side and two on the other side. The stakes are lodged into recesses in the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pole", "response": "You pull out one of the stakes, and the bridge to the southeast burns up, disappearing in an instant.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: South (as Helen)\nDown here, the pit of fire attacks all your senses at once, your eyes with its intense colour, your ears with the sound of its bubbling and popping, your skin with its searing heat. Just a short distance away over the fire is a small island with a small church on it, and indeed no room for anything else. There's no way over to it, but there is an upright stake lodged in the ground, and a recess next to it where another one might go. There are also paths around the base of the mountain to the west and east, and a way back up to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stake in the hole", "response": "(the wooden stake in the recess)\nYou lodge the stake into the recess, and a bridge shimmers into existence, leading southeast.\n\nA body rolls down the mountain, screeching desperately, before expiring in the flames below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Church Isle (as Helen)\nA small hexagonal stone church stands here, filling up almost the whole surface area of the island. It's somewhat crooked, and seems to get thinner and more distant the higher up you look, until the spire is like a spindly wire reaching up to the sky. The church is surrounded by a spiky wire mesh fence; there might be an opening around the back, but you can't tell. You can only walk back across the bridge to the northwest. Flames are licking up at the church's foundations, and you have to be careful that they don't claim you too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fence", "response": "A wire mesh fence topped with spikes is hugging the walls of the church.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flames", "response": "It's a colossal pit of constant flame. You can feel its heat from here, and hear the blaze as loudly as if it were already consuming you. You know that it will do so. You belong there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the fence", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: South (as Helen)\nDown here, the pit of fire attacks all your senses at once, your eyes with its intense colour, your ears with the sound of its bubbling and popping, your skin with its searing heat. Just a short distance away over the fire is a small island with a small church on it, and indeed no room for anything else. You can reach it by a wooden bridge to the southeast, which is held up by two anchoring poles lodged into the ground. There are also paths around the base of the mountain to the west and east, and a way back up to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You follow the rocky path around the base of the mountain, until it suddenly becomes impassable.\n\nFoot of the Mountain: East (as Helen)\nIn front of a line of heavy boulders, there's a cage. A cage, large enough for you to get into, and indeed with a door hanging invitingly open. A thick wire is connected to the top of the cage and runs right up into the sky, disappearing into thick cloud. You can still ignore it all and go back to the west, of course.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cage", "response": "It's a cage, cube-shaped and made of vertical metal bars. A thick cable is tied to the top of it, running all the way up into the clouds above. A door, also made of vertical bars, is hanging open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pole", "response": "You pull out one of the stakes, and the bridge to the southeast burns up, disappearing in an instant.\n\nThere's a scream, and someone rolls down the mountain into the fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cage", "response": "No sooner have you stepped into the cage than the door slams shut, and you start moving upwards. You look out at the side of the mountain, and then the movement gathers pace and before you know it, you've passed the summit. You look up through the bars and see the clouds getting nearer. Far below, the pit of fire is still bubbling and spitting away. You can see the great line of the dead, queuing all the way down the mountainside, waiting to be judged at the top, but now even the judges and the judging table look small and insignificant. Suddenly the vision disappears as you shoot into a cloud. The cage keeps on moving up, and you see the clouds changing colour: the first ones red and fiery, the next ones gradually cooler, whiter, bluer. Then you see people. People looking at you, resting on the clouds and looking at you, pointing at you. Angels casting murderous glances at you. People laughing.\n\nThen the cage stops, and you're looking out at a familiar group of people, playing cards on this white fluffy cloud. Mark is there.\n\nOn the Cloud (in the cage) (as Helen)\nMark, and a couple of unimportant cronies, are playing cards here, here on this cloud. This must be the little place in heaven they've been granted for their unshakeable faith. You get the feeling you should be guilty, but shameless or not, there's only one thing that interests you about the whole scene: the page of your book that's on the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the page", "response": "(the page)\nYou can't reach that from inside the cage.\n\n\"What's that whore even doing here?\" says one of Mark's cronies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine page", "response": "(the page)\nA page from your book, a piece of you. But the words are blurred and you can't read them properly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Mark", "response": "Mark is sitting at the table, playing cards with two of his friends. He's completely ignoring the page that's right next to him, but something also makes you feel that he's guarding it.\n\n\"What's that whore even doing here?\" says one of Mark's cronies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "You can't seem to do that. Your mind's gone blank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Mark", "response": "\"Mark, look, I'm sorry about what happened. I'm really sorry. But I was wondering... could I have that page please?\"\n\nOne of Mark's friends snickers. That's all the response you get.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cronies", "response": "Two of Mark's friends are also sat at the table, concentrating hard on their game. You think one of them is Chris, and the other one is Paul. Or is it Luke? You're not sure. They're all pretty much the same anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the cronies", "response": "\"Would one of you be able to let me out of here please?\"\n\n\"Did you hear something?\" says one of Mark's friends.\n\n\"No,\" he replies. Perhaps if you could somehow prove to Mark that he once cared about you... Which you're fairly sure is true, even if it's incomprehensible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mark about the tattoo on the left bicep", "response": "[ You cannot specify topics to talk about. ]\n\"Mark, that page you've got there... it's useless to you. Let me have it. Please!\"\n\nNobody answers you, but you notice Mark slowly shaking his head. Maybe you could somehow prove to Mark that he once cared for you. He goes in for that soppy stuff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "It's a cage, cube-shaped and made of vertical metal bars. A thick cable is tied to the top of it, running all the way up into the clouds above. The cage is currently shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "It's locked! \"Hey there!\" you call. \"Please can I come out for a little bit?\"\n\nThey ignore you.\n\n\"What's that whore even doing here?\" says one of Mark's cronies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na wooden stake\na page", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stake", "response": "It's a simple wooden stake that used to be holding up a bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "You have an awful singing voice.\n\n\"Can't we get rid of that horrible thing over there? I swear I'm going to puke in a minute.\"\n\n\"She's insignificant enough just to ignore,\" says Mark coolly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stake at Mark", "response": "No! You might not be able to get it back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the page to mark", "response": "(the page to Mark)\n\"Hey, look at this!\" you call. But he doesn't pay any attention.\n\n\"We've got to be thankful for the Lord's protection,\" says Mark. \"There's so much evil around.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're just as useless in the dream world as in reality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake up", "response": "Suddenly you're awake, and you struggle back into a sitting position, but it feels like you've just come from one nightmare to another. Images and memories from your dreams are parading through your mind, as if you didn't have enough torment.\n\nCarriage (as Helen)\nIt's a grey, metal carriage, only slightly longer than it is wide. There's no window, so the only light is from a slim fluorescent lamp in the ceiling that flickers every so often, periodically plunging you into darkness.The floor is littered with dead wasps, but they're not you're only company: a man, probably in his early twenties, is in the same state, leaning against the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wasps", "response": "Disgustingly, there are about a hundred dead things on the floor - concentrated in the centre of the carriage - bobbing up and down with the train's movement in a grotesque dance. They're bigger than wasps, and they're red, with menacing needles for stinging. It's a good thing they're all dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "Pictures and memories of being a bully are lingering in your head, for whatever reason.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "You're not feeling hungry at the moment - not in the slightest - but what's going to happen when you are? Will the train stop before that happens, and you'll be hauled into a creepy nightmarish abandoned mansion in the middle of nowhere, where your screams will echo throughout the valleys, startling sheep and assorted wildlife but reaching not a single human ear, and you'll be kept barely alive by stringy, tasteless sludge that's shoved under the door once a day? Or will you be lucky and starve to death?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "You so wish that you could talk. Of course, you have no idea what he's like, but he can't be the bad guy around here. Just having somebody to talk to would make things so much more bearable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get up", "response": "You might be able to stand up, but there's no way you can walk anywhere without tripping: your legs are tied together with no fewer than three ropes. And even if you could walk, there is nowhere to go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ropes", "response": "The ropes around you and him are the same and are in the same places - two are binding your arms to your sides and three are sticking your legs together. They are all excruciatingly tight.\n\nSuddenly that loud noise comes back, and the red light fills the room again. You can't help your pulse raising. But it happens just like last time: there are little tubes leading into the wall, and some sort of gas is being pumped out of them, but nothing happens. Then they shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the bully", "response": "Your primary school. A drab single-storey building surrounded\non all sides by the most garish green fence. You were standing next to that little extension on the side - you think it was the\nsecretary's office or something - and you were trying to count the bricks. A girl came up to you, and then she ran off because you\ntold her to go away.\n\n\"You can't join me because you can't count,\" you said. \"You're too stupid.\" You don't know what happened next. You didn't care. Maybe she went and cried in a corner, or maybe she just played with someone else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember girl", "response": "Rhiane was her name. One of many people you looked down on. She\nwas stupid, though. She always got the teachers' questions\nwrong. She was enthusiastic, always wanted to answer, but even simple arithmetic eluded her. Still, you were mean to her. You never saw her again after you went to secondary school.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the extension", "response": "It was just a little block jutting out from the main building. The curtains were almost always shut. You think it was the secretary's office.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the primary school", "response": "You don't have too many memories of that place. The building was from the eighties: it was ugly, but not intolerable. The playground was just concrete with hopscotch painted on it and stuff like that; you remember it got really hot in the summer. You spent minimal time outdoors. You were first in line to get in, and you just put your head down and worked, storming through arithmetic workbooks and leaving everyone behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember secretary", "response": "You can't remember how many bricks it had. You did get an answer, but you can't remember it, nor even how you felt when you finally got it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the curtains", "response": "The curtains were almost always shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Time to take stock. Here you are, tied up, gagged, sitting on the floor in an iron train car, with only a load of dead wasps and a complete stranger who is similarly incapacitated for company. Now, what does this mean? Can you solve this one by induction? Stop being silly, Helen, this is bloody serious. It means you've been kidnapped. But why would that happen? You can't understand why a kidnapping of this magnitude would happen to a nobody like you. You would expect a random psychopath to just hack your limbs off and be done with it; if somebody is actually keeping you alive, it makes you think they need you for something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "Your hands are bound to your sides, and honestly, there's nothing here that you'd want to pick up anyway.\n\nSuddenly that loud noise comes back, and the red light fills the room again. You can't help your pulse raising. But it happens just like last time: there are little tubes leading into the wall, and some sort of gas is being pumped out of them, but nothing happens. Then they shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're feeling surprisingly tired, so even though you'd rather not be off your guard in a situation like this, you can't be bothered to worry about it. You fall down onto your side, shut your eyes, and try to let the train's steady movement send you off.\nOn the Cloud (in the cage) (as Helen)\nYou're looking out of your prison at the little piece of heaven that Mark and his friends have been given. They're sat at a small table, completely ignoring you, having a game of cards. One of your pages is on the table. If the situation seems hopeless, then you think the lever that's poking through the bars of your cage would send you back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cards", "response": "The card game seems placid, but serious. Mark's hand is unreasonably good. You can't see what the others have got.\n\n\"We've got to be thankful for the Lord's protection,\" says Mark. \"There's so much evil around.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the tichu", "response": "You don't have a phone.\n\n\"Can you smell something?\" says a friend of Mark. \"It's horrid.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "How do you propose to get down?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "Suddenly the whole scene disappears as the cage shoots down into the cloud. It's swaying violently from side to side, shooting down between the clouds, barely giving the other residents chance to see you. Soon you're looking down at the pit of fire far below you, but before you know it the cage has slammed back into the ground and you're back at the side of the mountain.\n\nFoot of the Mountain: East (as Helen)\nIn front of a line of heavy boulders, there's a cage. A cage, large enough for you to get into, and indeed with a door hanging invitingly open. A thick wire is connected to the top of the cage and runs right up into the sky, disappearing into thick cloud. You can still ignore it all and go back to the west, of course.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: South (as Helen)\nDown here, the pit of fire attacks all your senses at once, your eyes with its intense colour, your ears with the sound of its bubbling and popping, your skin with its searing heat. Just a short distance away over the fire is a small island with a small church on it, and indeed no room for anything else. There's no way over to it, but there is an upright stake lodged in the ground, and a recess next to it where another one might go. There are also paths around the base of the mountain to the west and east, and a way back up to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: West (as Helen)\nLooking west you can see an island, floating on the surface of the fiery sea. A single wooden stake is lodged into the ground here, with a recess next to it, and directly opposite you on the island's shores are two more stakes. You can continue around the mountain to the north, or go back where you came from to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stake in the hole", "response": "(the wooden stake in the recess)\nYou lodge the stake into the recess, and a bridge shimmers into existence, leading west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Coast (as Helen)\nYou're on the shores of an island, bigger than the church isle you saw earlier, floating in the pit of fire. The great mountain is visible to the east, and a bridge leads over to its base. There's a crater here, with a signpost next to it that has an arrow pointing down.\n\nThere's one of your pages here, glowing faintly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the page", "response": "(the page)\nThat was the second of your pages. Somehow, you know there are seven. There's always seven.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine sign", "response": "The arrow is pointing straight down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crater", "response": "There's a crater, with a radius of almost a metre, and there's a signpost next to it with an arrow pointing straight down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the page", "response": "A page from your book, a piece of you. But the words are blurred and you can't read them properly. Maybe if you were awake you'd be able to concentrate on it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake", "response": "Suddenly you're awake, and you struggle back into a sitting position, but it feels like you've just come from one nightmare to another. Images and memories from your dreams are parading through your mind, as if you didn't have enough torment.\n\nCarriage (as Helen)\nIt's a grey, metal carriage, only slightly longer than it is wide. There's no window, so the only light is from a slim fluorescent lamp in the ceiling that flickers every so often, periodically plunging you into darkness.The floor is littered with dead wasps, but they're not you're only company: a man, probably in his early twenties, is in the same state, leaning against the opposite wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "Images from your wretched past are swimming around in your mind: the holiday in Turkey and being a bully. Most prominent are the memories of being a bully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the Turkey", "response": "There was that nuclear furnace we call the Sun, and though you knew it was the same one, it definitely felt different, beating down on you on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. You felt very dizzy on that walk, because of the heat. You'd gone out of your little holiday cottage on your own, hadn't told your parents where you were going. Mary was in the pool, and you didn't like swimming, so you just left. You walked through the town, wandered in and out of shops, tried to talk to random locals, who didn't answer you, not even if you said \"merhaba\" or some of the other phrasebook things that you can't remember now. You ended up on this beautiful coastal path, looking out at the glimmering sea and the beautiful rocks poking out of it.\nYou were fourteen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the sea", "response": "You remember looking down at the sea, and all you could think about was what it would be like to jump in. It was a really long way up, and you weren't scared. There was no fence on the side of the cliff - it would have been so easy to just dive down. You knew you wouldn't do it, but you couldn't resist thinking about it.\n\nUsually you wouldn't want to be asleep when you feel in danger, but you've somehow ceased to care. You could do with a nap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the rocks", "response": "You thought about the rocks poking out from the water. You thought about your jumping trajectory. You imagined what it would be like to fall straight onto the rocks, your blood flowing out to sea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're feeling surprisingly tired, so even though you'd rather not be off your guard in a situation like this, you can't be bothered to worry about it. You fall down onto your side, shut your eyes, and try to let the train's steady movement send you off.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "Coast (as Helen)\nYou're on the shores of an island, bigger than the church isle you saw earlier, floating in the pit of fire. The great mountain is visible to the east, and a bridge leads over to its base. There's a crater here, with a signpost next to it that has an arrow pointing down.\n\nYou step into the crater experimentally, finding the ground to be somewhat elastic, almost like fabric. Nothing happens though, so you step out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\n2 pages (of 7)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: West (as Helen)\nLooking west you can see an island, floating on the surface of the fiery sea. A wooden bridge leads over to its shores. You can continue around the mountain to the north, or go back where you came from to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You continue walking around the mountain, clambering over fallen rocks and picking your way through dead bushes. You look ahead, and stop dead in your tracks. In the distance you can see that parade of death that you came from: the dead, clambering up the mountainside towards judgement. Nobody's seen you, and you'd rather it stay that way. Your heart beating fast with terror, you scurry back around to where you came from, moving so recklessly that you almost fall into the fire.\n\nFoot of the Mountain: West (as Helen)\nLooking west you can see an island, floating on the surface of the fiery sea. A wooden bridge leads over to its shores. You can go back where you came from to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Your climbing skills are too pathetic. You might as well just jump straight into the fire to save yourself the bother of falling in accidentally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stake", "response": "The stake looks as though it would be easy to pull out, but there's that other recess right next to it: you'd rather put another in than have both recesses empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Mountainside (as Helen)\nYou're looking out upon the enormous pit of fire surrounding the mountain. Rocks of various sizes litter the ground, and an acrid dust suffuses your senses. It looks like you could probably scramble down to the south without much injury. Up above, the judgement continues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: West (as Helen)\nLooking west you can see an island, floating on the surface of the fiery sea. A wooden bridge leads over to its shores. You can go back where you came from to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stake", "response": "You pull out one of the stakes, and the bridge to the west burns up, disappearing in an instant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stake in the hole", "response": "(the wooden stake in the recess)\nYou lodge the stake into the recess, and a bridge shimmers into existence, leading southeast.\n\nAnother body wordlessly accepts its fate, and flies down into the pit of fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Church Isle (as Helen)\nA small hexagonal stone church stands here, filling up almost the whole surface area of the island. It's somewhat crooked, and seems to get thinner and more distant the higher up you look, until the spire is like a spindly wire reaching up to the sky. The church is surrounded by a spiky wire mesh fence; there might be an opening around the back, but you can't tell. You can only walk back across the bridge to the northwest. Flames are licking up at the church's foundations, and you have to be careful that they don't claim you too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter Church", "response": "You bump into the fence surrounding the church. Your vision blurs momentarily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the wire", "response": "Which do you mean, the church or the fence?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fence", "response": "Things do seem quite soft here, as though you could easily cut into them. But you'd still need a tool of some kind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the spire", "response": "It's much too high, and you imagine it would just get keep getting taller if you climbed up, so that you'd never reach the top.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "God's dead, remember?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the Church", "response": "You are unable to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Helen", "response": "The girl is up against the wall directly opposite you, with the same tight ropes binding her limbs together, and the gag over her mouth. There's a nagging familiarity about her, but no matter how many times you cast your eyes over her tangled brown hair, pale face, the expensive-looking navy blue jumper or surprisingly intact jeans, you cannot work out who she is. She looks to be in her early twenties, and generally, you feel she doesn't deserve to be here. Not that anyone does.\n\nShe's currently lying on her side, getting some sleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "It really is as bad as it feels. Your arms and legs are tightly bound; you've got no chance of shaking yourself free or even being able to move around. And worst of all, you can't even talk to the only other person in the room. The gag feels like a permanent attachment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "You decide to give it another go. Shutting your eyes tightly, you devote all your energy to the task of remembering, and this time the memories come in thick and fast, so quickly you can scarcely keep up. And that's it. Your sad, sorry life. You're just another idealistic idiot who thinks he can make a difference. You've achieved nothing, done nothing wrong and nothing right. Your last memory is of racing to the Underground and fighting your way through the carriage to stop Reth's stupid, stupid plan from working. And you did, didn't you? You did it. And that's all you remember. Don't say this is his silly messed-up idea of revenge... Reth isn't like that. No, you just don't get it.\n\nSome memories seem particularly clear in your mind now. Usually you have no interest in the past, especially your own.\n\nYou're feeling quite sleepy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember", "response": "Various memories are running around your head: the climate change talk and the anti-war march.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the climate change talk", "response": "The talk was over and you were pretty much exhausted, especially after all the long, technical and boring questions that had been asked at the end. Various campaign groups had stalls in the entrance\nhall area and you quickly lost Caroline in the crowd. You'd\nbeen loitering in the middle of the room for a while, not knowing where to go, too jaded to go and read the posters and leaflets that had been set out, when a youngish or middle-aged woman spotted\nyou and started talking to you, for whatever reason.\n\nThere's that clanking sound again. As before, a red light fills the room every second, and little vents open on the walls. There's the sound of rushing air, a horrid smell, and then they shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the woman", "response": "You'd never seen her before and you never saw her again. She was wearing a shirt and a jacket like a businesswoman but she still seemed a bit scruffy. She had short hair and a rucksack over one shoulder. Her voice was quite deep, full and stern, but it was so busy in there that you doubt anyone else heard what she was saying to you.\n\nMaybe you could try going to sleep... Maybe when you wake up you'll have arrived. Somewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the rucksack", "response": "You don't remember everything you talked about, but some of it sticks out.\n\n\"I just want to know the answer,\" you remember saying. \"All this talk about the problems and about how deeply ingrained they are in our society, but what do you do about that?\"\n\n\"You should go over there,\" she said, pointing to the socialist youth stall. \"Far as I'm concerned, that is the place to start.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the stalls", "response": "There were stalls for all kinds of things, from political parties to environmental campaign groups to home solar panel installation companies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the socialist youth", "response": "You were too tired to look carefully or to speak to them there and then, so you just snatched up one of each of the leaflets and fliers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the leaflets", "response": "Which do you mean, the stalls or the socialist youth stall?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember Caroline", "response": "Caroline wasn't in the best of moods that day, and you can hardly go to a talk on climate change to unwind. You'd just recently caved in to getting a soul-destroying job at a supermarket, just for the money, and as soon as her ex-husband heard about it, he stopped sending Caroline the money packets that were only just keeping you afloat as it was. So, money was as tight as ever, if not more so.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the march", "response": "The memory has been overtaken a bit by all the other demos you've been on since, but the first one always sticks out, of course. The anger on the streets was probably more palpable than you've ever felt it. You remember loving the crowd, being able to voice that anger along\nwith so many others. The streets were familiar but transformed. You all felt so powerful; you could make a difference; surely they couldn't ignore you, the people. Best of all, Caroline was\nthere all the way, shouting along with you. You loved having a mother who felt the same way as you.\n\nWhat you learned from it all was: the government can't be trusted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember the crowd", "response": "It's strange that the first march you went on was also the biggest. You suppose it was something that tended to cut across political differences. You weren't 'political' at 11 years old, after all, so you suppose there were plenty of older people who were similarly apolitical but just knew injustice when they saw it. The streets were simply packed full. You remember catching glimpses of the sidelines; the police were always there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remember Caroline", "response": "You're not really sure how it started, but you can scarcely imagine it any other way. It's not like she dragged you into this or that you dragged her into it: together you saw what was going on around you and together you acted. You were sounding boards for each other, trying to disentangle the politics. You learnt from each other. Even then, you called her Caroline. Her husband - you didn't call him dad, let alone Steve - was out of the picture. You didn't talk about him and didn't need to.\n\nThere's that clanking sound again. As before, a red light fills the room every second, and little vents open on the walls. There's the sound of rushing air, a horrid smell, and then they shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "You've established you're called Ross, you're twenty-one, a Londoner, a worker, a servant, a groundsman. Just another cog in a big world-destroying machine, and that's all you'll ever be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You be", "response": "(the person opposite you)\n\nChurch Isle (as Helen)\nA small hexagonal stone church stands here, filling up almost the whole surface area of the island. It's somewhat crooked, and seems to get thinner and more distant the higher up you look, until the spire is like a spindly wire reaching up to the sky. The church is surrounded by a spiky wire mesh fence; there might be an opening around the back, but you can't tell. You can only walk back across the bridge to the northwest. Flames are licking up at the church's foundations, and you have to be careful that they don't claim you too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "If you go that way, you'll fall headlong into the fire. You can sense the pain already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: South (as Helen)\nDown here, the pit of fire attacks all your senses at once, your eyes with its intense colour, your ears with the sound of its bubbling and popping, your skin with its searing heat. Just a short distance away over the fire is a small island with a small church on it, and indeed no room for anything else. You can reach it by a wooden bridge to the southeast, which is held up by two anchoring poles lodged into the ground. There are also paths around the base of the mountain to the west and east, and a way back up to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pole", "response": "You pull out one of the stakes, and the bridge to the southeast burns up, disappearing in an instant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You be ross", "response": "Carriage (as Ross)\nThe metal carriage is a deep grey with shadowy corners, and the fluorescent lamp on the ceiling is on the blink, so that every so often you're sent into total darkness. Your only company is the girl opposite you and a sea of dead wasps. You don't know where you're going or how you got here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You're not getting anywhere by being awake, so you don't think it will matter to try getting some sleep. It's hardly comfortable, but it isn't noisy - in fact it's far quieter than London. You push yourself over onto your side and shut your eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "Machine Room: Central (as Ross)\nGiant cogs are turning, forming a messy pattern that snakes around the room, interspersed with other machines whose function is entirely opaque to you. Some are spewing steam, some are making horrid squelching noises, some have bright flashing lights. There is a wall to the east, and many of the cogs cut right through it. You can go back to the west.\n\nYou are carrying:\na sickle\n2 pieces of soul (of 7)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake", "response": "You bolt awake. Still in the train carriage, trundling along. You manage to push yourself back into a sitting position. Pictures from your past, things you saw in your dream, are still in the front of your mind.\n\nCarriage (as Ross)\nThe metal carriage is a deep grey with shadowy corners, and the fluorescent lamp on the ceiling is on the blink, so that every so often you're sent into total darkness. Your only company is the girl opposite you and a sea of dead wasps. You don't know where you're going or how you got here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch girl", "response": "You can't reach her... You're tied up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Untie", "response": "What do you want to untie?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ropes", "response": "If only. But there's no way you can do anything with the ropes. Your arms are bound to your sides, and your hands come down frustratingly short of the rope around your shins, so you can't even touch it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You untie Helen", "response": "So, if you weren't tied up, you'd pick her up and take her... where exactly? This plan seems doomed to failure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wriggle", "response": "You try scraping the ropes against the wall, and the floor, but it's not working. They're much too strong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite gag", "response": "Even if your hands weren't bound to your sides, you reckon taking it off would be extremely painful and might also remove your lips. It would probably be worth it, all the same.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shout", "response": "You cry out, wanting to release some anger, but the gag over your mouth is so thick that it muffles and enfeebles every sound you make.\n\nYou feel so tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Machine Room: Central (as Ross)\nGiant cogs are turning, forming a messy pattern that snakes around the room, interspersed with other machines whose function is entirely opaque to you. Some are spewing steam, some are making horrid squelching noises, some have bright flashing lights. There is a wall to the east, and many of the cogs cut right through it. You can go back to the west.\n\nMachine Room: West (as Ross)\nComplicated machinery is everywhere, clunking and scraping and turning and chugging away at the task of destroying the planet. At the north end of the room is a single stake, standing upright, and just beyond it is a gap in the floor, so that you can see through to the void of space below. A set of stairs leads up, and the machine room itself extends eastward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sickle", "response": "A dependable worker's tool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Machine Room: Central (as Ross)\nGiant cogs are turning, forming a messy pattern that snakes around the room, interspersed with other machines whose function is entirely opaque to you. Some are spewing steam, some are making horrid squelching noises, some have bright flashing lights. There is a wall to the east, and many of the cogs cut right through it. You can go back to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut east", "response": "You plunge the sickle into the wall, and it cuts itself into the shape of an arch, leading east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Machine Room: East (as Ross)\nIt's a continuation of the machine room, with more of the squeaking, pulsing mechanisms and gizmos. A trapdoor in the floor leads into darkness via a ladder. Emanating from it is a symphony of slicing, cutting and crashing sounds, and there's a machine up here that's buzzing and shaking in time with it.\n\nAn archway leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get sickle", "response": "You feel around the edges of the arch, then peel it away, removing the way to the west. You now have a sickle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put sickle in Machine", "response": "(the sickle in the loud machine)\nYou'd rather put things on the floor than on the machines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sickle on the floor", "response": "(the trapdoor)\nIf possible you'd rather not drop anything important in there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ladder", "response": "How on earth could you carry that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off Machine", "response": "There are no visible controls on the machine. You'll have to take a more physical approach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kick machine", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss machine", "response": "Disgusting thought. Not even going to try.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na sickle\n2 pieces of soul (of 7)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut W then W", "response": "You plunge the sickle into the wall, and it cuts itself into the shape of an arch, leading west.\n\nMachine Room: Central (as Ross)\nGiant cogs are turning, forming a messy pattern that snakes around the room, interspersed with other machines whose function is entirely opaque to you. Some are spewing steam, some are making horrid squelching noises, some have bright flashing lights. There is a wall to the east, and many of the cogs cut right through it. You can go back to the west.\n\nAn archway leads east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You climb the stairs, and the stairs themselves fly upwards, so that with each footfall you're much higher up. Eventually the staircase halts, and you step off onto a platform.\n\nBeneath the Pipe (as Ross)\nYou're standing on a small platform, watching severed parts of Earth shoot past through the pipe just above you that leads to the beast. By this point in their processing, things are barely recognisable as belonging to Nature - there are some earthy colours and familiar shapes, but it's mostly just a kind of tangled mush. Bits of it escape the flow and trickle onto the floor, creating a pungent deathly odour. A tiny ladder will take you right into the flow.\n\nYou suddenly see a burst of colour floating past you, and it turns out to be a glass sphere drifting up towards the pipe. Presumably someone's soul is within. You have no time to save it before it is caught by the flow and vanishes down the tube.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sickle in the pipe", "response": "You stretch your arm out and let the torrent seize the sickle. It disappears down the pipe in an instant.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Beneath the Pipe (as Ross)\nYou're standing on a small platform, watching severed parts of Earth shoot past through the pipe just above you that leads to the beast. By this point in their processing, things are barely recognisable as belonging to Nature - there are some earthy colours and familiar shapes, but it's mostly just a kind of tangled mush. Bits of it escape the flow and trickle onto the floor, creating a pungent deathly odour. A tiny ladder will take you right into the flow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\n2 pieces of soul (of 7)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine flow", "response": "Material from the Earth is gushing through this pipe, on its way to the beast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the floor", "response": "There's a staircase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You be helen", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: South (as Helen)\nDown here, the pit of fire attacks all your senses at once, your eyes with its intense colour, your ears with the sound of its bubbling and popping, your skin with its searing heat. Just a short distance away over the fire is a small island with a small church on it, and indeed no room for anything else. There's no way over to it, but there is an upright stake lodged in the ground, and a recess next to it where another one might go. There are also paths around the base of the mountain to the west and east, and a way back up to the north.\n\nYou hear a noise from up the mountain, and see a pair of scissors and a colourful glass sphere tumbling down towards you. The sphere instantly smashes into a million shards, which disappear in the dust.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the scissors", "response": "You bend down and retrieve the pair of scissors.\n\nAnother body wordlessly accepts its fate, and flies down into the pit of fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "It's a big pair of scissors that came over the mountaintop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "If you go that way, you'll fall headlong into the fire. Perhaps it's time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "Time to stop fooling around here. You step to the edge and let the flames lick your feet. You get used to the burns, almost enjoy it, and then you sway forward and let yourself go. The heat surges inside you, an intense pain eating through you, snaking round your blood vessels and turning you to death. You still have the sensation of falling, and falling, and you think you see something metal. Something big and metal, floating in space, consuming the Earth, but that's all you have time to notice before you scream your way into oblivion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "Suddenly you're awake, and you struggle back into a sitting position, but it feels like you've just come from one nightmare to another. Images and memories from your dreams are parading through your mind, as if you didn't have enough torment.\n\nCarriage (as Helen)\nIt's a grey, metal carriage, only slightly longer than it is wide. There's no window, so the only light is from a slim fluorescent lamp in the ceiling that flickers every so often, periodically plunging you into darkness.The floor is littered with dead wasps, but they're not you're only company: a man, probably in his early twenties, is in the same state, leaning against the opposite wall.\n\nYou're feeling surprisingly tired, so even though you'd rather not be off your guard in a situation like this, you can't be bothered to worry about it. You fall down onto your side, shut your eyes, and try to let the train's steady movement send you off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stake in the hole", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: South (as Helen)\nDown here, the pit of fire attacks all your senses at once, your eyes with its intense colour, your ears with the sound of its bubbling and popping, your skin with its searing heat. Just a short distance away over the fire is a small island with a small church on it, and indeed no room for anything else. There's no way over to it, but there is an upright stake lodged in the ground, and a recess next to it where another one might go. There are also paths around the base of the mountain to the west and east, and a way back up to the north.\n\nYou need to be holding the recess before you can put it into something else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\n2 pages (of 7)\n\nAnother body wordlessly accepts its fate, and flies down into the pit of fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Mountainside (as Helen)\nYou're looking out upon the enormous pit of fire surrounding the mountain. Rocks of various sizes litter the ground, and an acrid dust suffuses your senses. It looks like you could probably scramble down to the south without much injury. Up above, the judgement continues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Foot of the Mountain: South (as Helen)\nDown here, the pit of fire attacks all your senses at once, your eyes with its intense colour, your ears with the sound of its bubbling and popping, your skin with its searing heat. Just a short distance away over the fire is a small island with a small church on it, and indeed no room for anything else. There's no way over to it, but there is an upright stake lodged in the ground, and a recess next to it where another one might go. There are also paths around the base of the mountain to the west and east, and a way back up to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You be ross", "response": "Beneath the Pipe (as Ross)\nYou're standing on a small platform, watching severed parts of Earth shoot past through the pipe just above you that leads to the beast. By this point in their processing, things are barely recognisable as belonging to Nature - there are some earthy colours and familiar shapes, but it's mostly just a kind of tangled mush. Bits of it escape the flow and trickle onto the floor, creating a pungent deathly odour. A tiny ladder will take you right into the flow.\n\nThere's a loud sucking noise, and a sickle and a metal pole suddenly drop out of the flow, strangely intact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "metal pole: You expropriate the metal pole.\nsickle: You expropriate the sickle.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Descend", "response": "As you climb down the stairs, the entire staircase shoots down, landing in the huge machine room you came from.\n\nMachine Room: West (as Ross)\nComplicated machinery is everywhere, clunking and scraping and turning and chugging away at the task of destroying the planet. At the north end of the room is a single stake, standing upright, and just beyond it is a gap in the floor, so that you can see through to the void of space below. A set of stairs leads up, and the machine room itself extends eastward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pole in the hole", "response": "(the metal pole in the recess)\nYou lodge the stake into the recess, and a bridge shimmers into existence, leading north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Over the Gap (as Ross)\nYou've crossed the abyss to get over here, and there's just a boarded-up door to the north and, slightly more intriguingly, a strange device hanging through the ceiling - a column of metal with handles at the bottom. You could get back via the bridge to the south.\n\nA small crystal is here - a part of your soul ready to be taken back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the crystal", "response": "(the piece of soul)\nYou've found another part of your 'soul'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine column", "response": "A strange column of metal is hanging down from the ceiling, a bit like a periscope, with handles at the bottom as though you could turn it. You imagine it goes up into one of the pipes, but you're not sure what effect turning it has.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn it", "response": "You get a grip on the handles and try turning the machine in an anticlockwise direction. It's stiff, but you put in all your might and it finally budges, moving around by a set amount and clicking into a new position. The handles are strangely hot, as though the machine is connected to a furnace or something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look into it", "response": "That sounds like a waste of time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the column", "response": "You get a grip on the handles and try turning the machine in an anticlockwise direction. It's stiff, but you put in all your might and it finally budges, moving around by a set amount and clicking into a new position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the column", "response": "You get a firm grip on the handles and rotate the mechanism anticlockwise, which clicks sharply into a new position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Machine Room: West (as Ross)\nComplicated machinery is everywhere, clunking and scraping and turning and chugging away at the task of destroying the planet. At the north end of the room is a bridge across a wide gap in the floor. A set of stairs leads up, and the machine room itself extends eastward.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "As you climb down the stairs, the entire staircase shoots down, landing in the huge machine room you came from.\n\nMachine Room: West (as Ross)\nComplicated machinery is everywhere, clunking and scraping and turning and chugging away at the task of destroying the planet. At the north end of the room is a bridge across a wide gap in the floor. A set of stairs leads up, and the machine room itself extends eastward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Over the Gap (as Ross)\nYou've crossed the abyss to get over here, and there's just a boarded-up door to the north and, slightly more intriguingly, a strange device hanging through the ceiling - a column of metal with handles at the bottom. You could get back via the bridge to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the handles", "response": "A strange column of metal is hanging down from the ceiling, a bit like a periscope, with handles at the bottom as though you could turn it. You imagine it goes up into one of the pipes, but you're not sure what effect turning it has.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn", "response": "What do you want to turn?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the column clockwise", "response": "You get a grip on the handles and try turning the machine in a clockwise direction. It's stiff, but you put in all your might and it finally budges, moving around by a set amount and clicking into a new position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the column clockwise", "response": "You get a firm grip on the handles and rotate the mechanism clockwise, which clicks sharply into a new position.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You climb the stairs, and the stairs themselves fly upwards, so that with each footfall you're much higher up. Eventually the staircase halts, and you step off onto a platform.\n\nBeneath the Pipe (as Ross)\nYou're standing on a small platform, watching severed parts of Earth shoot past through the pipe just above you that leads to the beast. By this point in their processing, things are barely recognisable as belonging to Nature - there are some earthy colours and familiar shapes, but it's mostly just a kind of tangled mush. Bits of it escape the flow and trickle onto the floor, creating a pungent deathly odour. A tiny ladder will take you right into the flow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\n3 pieces of soul (of 7)\na sickle", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Science Fiction" ]

[ "active NPCs", "animals", "changing environment", "crashed spaceship", "ecology", "IF Competition 2012", "IFComp Game", "non-human npcs", "science fiction", "telepathy", "transformation", "violence", "Xyzzy Awards 2012" ]

[ 1, 9, 5, 1, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You wake and see blood.\n\nThere's blood everywhere. So much blood, that at first you don't realise there's a figure behind the blood. It's alive, just; there's a face, twisted with pain, and more blood that bubbles from its mouth as it breathes, and a hand that spasms as it tries to paw at the thing projecting from where a chest should be. The eyes gaze into yours. There is still life and desperation there, but it it knows that it is quickly running out.\n\nYou want to help. You reach out --- and that is when you realise that you are looking into the inside of the reflective cockpit canopy, and that the face you can see is yours.\n\n\n\nYou wake.\n\nSomething's different.\n\nYou are immersed in a warm, comforting heap of something soft. It envelops you like an old blanket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You'll have to get out of this stuff first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You fight your way free of the cottony stuff. Dim light blinds you for a moment.\n\nThe trees here are huge: massive columnar towers rising out of the soft green turf to support the dense leaf canopy above. Golden rays angle down between the trees, filling the vast space with dim light, and reflecting off the river that runs down the east side. The air seems permeated with peacefulness.\n\nLarge green cocoons are attached to the bases of some of the trees.\n\nYou climb out of the pile of fluff to find it's heaped on a low, leafy dais. As you step off, the dais silently folds closed behind you to become one of the cocoons.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cocoon", "response": "(the closed cocoons)\nOn closer inspection, the cocoons are actually growing out of the trees. They're hard balls of veiny green leaves of all different sizes, from half a metre to several metres in diameter. You're not sure which one you climbed out of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cocoon", "response": "(the closed cocoons)\nThey open and close by themselves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You walk over to the water and study your reflection. The river is wide and dark, and in the dim light makes an almost perfect mirror.\n\nRather than the face you were expecting --- a battered one, but human --- you instead see a furry snout with bulbous eyes on each side and a wide mouth.\n\nYou recognise it from the survey report: the temporary name tagged on the creature is rabbit, for fairly obvious reasons. Numbly,\nyou find yourself interested that you're finally seeing one up close.\n\nIt's definitely you. Now you're actually noticing, it's\nperfectly apparent that the body you're inhabiting is not your own. The fact that it feels totally natural is strangely unnerving.\n\nBut that still doesn't explain how, or why, although you can make a decent guess at where.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "The river is wide and dark, and in the dim light makes an almost perfect mirror.\n\nYes, still a rabbit. You stare in horrified fascination for a few moments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You walk over to the water and study your reflection. The river is wide and dark, and in the dim light makes an almost perfect mirror.\n\nYes, still a rabbit. You stare in horrified fascination for a few moments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "It is utterly silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "There's the faint wet smell of damp mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You scuff the soil a little.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The trees here are huge: massive columnar towers rising out of the soft green turf to support the dense leaf canopy above. Golden rays angle down between the trees, filling the vast space with dim light, and reflecting off the river that runs down the east side. The air seems permeated with peacefulness.\n\nLarge green cocoons are attached to the bases of some of the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "Your gaze slowly follows the tree trunks up to the canopy far overhead. It's an awesome sight. You've never seen anything this big that was alive before. At least, not in person. You recognise it from the Concerto's survey photographs: it's a Mother Tree.\n\nThe Mother Tree is, according to the Concerto, a commensal\nplant which is semi-symbiotic on the surrounding wildlife. Actually getting more details was like pulling hen's teeth; the ship wouldn't answer questions about them, and the survey department seemed to be almost frightened. Eventually you managed to push enough alcohol down Francis so that he muttered something about taking life with one hand and giving it back with the other before he clammed up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb Tree", "response": "It's just too big.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell the cocoon", "response": "(the closed cocoons)\nThere's the faint wet smell of damp mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Just as you're about to move, you see motion at the northern edge of the Mother Tree. In panic, you dive behind a tree.\n\nA shape emerges from the light of the river arch: one rabbit dragging another. The one that is doing the pulling is a bit bigger than you are, and marked in black and white. The one on the ground... is obviously dead, eyes staring, grey fur tattered and muddy. It's heavy and awkward and the black and white rabbit is having difficulty moving it.\n\nAs you watch, one of the green cocoons silently splits open and unfolds. The black and white rabbit glances in your direction and then continues dragging the corpse after it into the cocoon.\n\n...the rabbit knows very little, but it knows this: its companion\nwas once alive, and is now dead. And it wants it to be alive. This cannot happen, but there is a way they can be reunited, and the Mother Tree is kind. The rabbit is old and tired but it has enough strength to do this, and so it drags the rigid corpse to the Mother Tree. The strange zombie rabbit is watching it, but that is unimportant now. All there is left to do is wait.\n\n...what just happened?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "The cocoon closes, as silently as it opened, about the two rabbits.\n\nTime passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cocoon", "response": "(the closed cocoons)\nOn closer inspection, the cocoons are actually growing out of the trees. They're hard balls of veiny green leaves of all different sizes, from half a metre to several metres in diameter. You're not sure which one you climbed out of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You emerge, blinking, into the sunlight. Once your eyes have adjusted, you look up. Yes, this is Elysia. The Semiquaver at least\nmanaged to crash on the right planet.\n\nAlthough you were hurt pretty badly. Maybe the\nConcerto picked you up and this is some sort of recuperative virtuality? That would at least explain the whole... rabbit... thing.\n\nAssuming for sanity's sake that this is real, the shuttle should be around here somewhere.\n\nHere in the shadow of the Mother Tree the ground is flat and wet; reed-like plants with white flowers grow everywhere and the air is musky. The river winds slowly along the east side of the marsh with woodlands beyond it. To the west the ground rises to what look like a series of sandy bluffs. The ground looks drier to the north where the canyon ramparts start to close in.\n\nSomething... very strange... starts to happen. You find yourself with this strong feeling of peacefulness, except you know it's not you feeling it; you can even sense the direction. You never felt anything like it before, but nevertheless, you can distinctly feel peacefulness from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel", "response": "What do you want to feel?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Peacefulness", "response": "All you can tell is that it's coming from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste peacefulness", "response": "That doesn't seem possible.\n\nThat isn't available.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This little grassy hollow half-way up the side of the canyon looks like it's been colonised by rabbits. The tough grass-like ground covering has been dug away and the sandy soil underneath is full of burrows. Down to the east the view over the Mother Tree is spectacular, and you wonder what it would be like from the top; you can probably climb up to the west. The slope steepens and becomes impassably steep to the south, but the warren continues to the north.\n\nThere are burrows everywhere.\n\nYou're suddenly face to face with a swarm of small furry creatures, scattered across the grass. For a moment you panic... and then you recognise them as other rabbits. Some of them look at you, but mostly they ignore you completely. You study them, fascinated. You never realised they came in so many different colours.\n\nA very small rabbit pokes its head out of a burrow, and then goes back down again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the burrow", "response": "The burrow is blocked by a large rabbit. It stares at you calmly. It's quite unthreatening, but it's still not letting you in.\n\nOne rabbit chases another a few metres.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite rabbit", "response": "A rabbit yawns.\n\nBefore you can move, the rabbits all turn to stare at you in unison. Then something... odd... happens. The next thing you are aware of is that you're sitting right where you were, disoriented, and there are no rabbits.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This little grassy hollow half-way up the side of the canyon looks like it's been colonised by rabbits. The tough grass-like ground covering has been dug away and the sandy soil underneath is full of burrows. Down to the east the view over the Mother Tree is spectacular, and you wonder what it would be like from the top; you can probably climb up to the west. The slope steepens and becomes impassably steep to the south, but the warren continues to the north.\n\nThere are burrows everywhere.\n\nEyes seem to be staring at you from out of the burrows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You have a very strong feeling that the rabbits are more dangerous than they look. That's probably not a good idea.\n\nA small group of deer-like animals, much larger than you are, gallop up from the east with a thunder of hooves. They spend several moments looking around with suspicion before returning to their grazing. One of them turns its head to look at you.\n\nThe buck is completely secure in his world. He has few needs: his mates, enough to eat, safety. Here in the canyon the only thing he has to be at all wary of is that annoying little creature with the sharp teeth that is always hanging around; if it ever came close enough he could kill it with a single kick, but it always keeps its distance. There is a nagging itch at the back of his mind, however: somewhere in the canyon there is the smell of the Wonderful Plant. He just can't find it.\n\nThere. It happened again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The air is good, nearly as good as the Concerto's, but\nuninteresting.\n\nOne of the younger deer bites its sibling, and there's a brief altercation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the deer", "response": "There are five of the creatures. One male, two females, and a couple of juveniles? It's very hard to tell, as they're all very similar apart from the size. They're smaller than you were expecting from the survey, barely the size of a large dog, but the blue-green fur is just as startling as you remember. They each have a single forward-curving horn that looks extremely sharp.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off north.\n\nA vicious-looking brown and white creature trots up from the east. You see bright eyes and hunger. The survey report mentioned these. It's a...\n\nThe fox is hungry, but it is always hungry. A long time ago it was mauled by one of those horrible animals at the dam, and was unable to hunt and was starving; then it found a dead deer, and gorged itself on the half-rancid meat. It was the best thing it ever experienced, and for a few brief hours afterwards, it was replete. Now it follows the deer around endlessly. They are far too large for it to kill, but it lives in hope of another windfall. In the meantime it scavanges for insects and tiny furry things. And, of course, it's always on the lookout for a bigger meal.\n\nYou blink, disoriented.\n\nIt eagerly begins to chase you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the burrow", "response": "The burrow is blocked by a large rabbit. It stares at you calmly. It's quite unthreatening, but it's still not letting you in.\n\nThe fox pounces on you. You just have time to think oh, sh---\nas its jaws close on your neck, and then everything stops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You were wrong: the view is terrible from here. Outside the canyon there is just barren, sandy wasteland, with the occasional scrubby plant, stretching away in all directions. There are mountains on the horizon, but there's no way you could survive out here long enough to reach them. Down to the east the oasis of the canyon is mostly hidden behind the terrain. There is a rise to the south, near where the land stops.\n\nThere's that strange sensation again, of excitement and caution from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A narrow finger of rock points out over the cliff. Unlike the desert, the view here is extraordinary: the lush green canyon falls away to the west, and the endless cloud ocean of the Elysian Lowlands fills the eastern horizon, thousands of metres below. Straight down you can see where the river falls away over the edge of the cliff.\n\nSomething large and metallic shines on the other side of the canyon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the canyon", "response": "It's spread out below you: the Mother Tree at the south end; then the meadows; the river flowing out of the lake, surrounded by forests; and far away at the north there's a distant cascade of water, almost too small to make out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You were wrong: the view is terrible from here. Outside the canyon there is just barren, sandy wasteland, with the occasional scrubby plant, stretching away in all directions. There are mountains on the horizon, but there's no way you could survive out here long enough to reach them. Down to the east the oasis of the canyon is mostly hidden behind the terrain. There is a rise to the south, near where the land stops.\n\nYou can feel caution from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This little grassy hollow half-way up the side of the canyon looks like it's been colonised by rabbits. The tough grass-like ground covering has been dug away and the sandy soil underneath is full of burrows. Down to the east the view over the Mother Tree is spectacular, much better than it was from the top; you can probably climb up to the west. The slope steepens and becomes impassably steep to the south, but the warren continues to the north.\n\nThere are burrows everywhere.\n\nEyes seem to be staring at you from out of the burrows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Here in the shadow of the Mother Tree the ground is flat and wet; reed-like plants with white flowers grow everywhere and the air is musky. The river winds slowly along the east side of the marsh with woodlands beyond it. To the west the ground rises to what look like a series of sandy bluffs. The ground looks drier to the north where the canyon ramparts start to close in.\n\nYou can feel caution from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The flat river valley here isn't as wet as the marsh further south, and has bloomed into an astonishing wildflower meadow. The flowers are all strange and alien, of course, but the air is fragrant and peaceful. The only sound is the gentle noise of the river to the east. Off to the west the ground begins to rise up to meet the canyon wall, while forests dominate the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You go to work with your front paws and quickly clear the loose sand out of the burrow. It's surprisingly satisfying work.\n\nThere's that peculiar sensation again; the feeling of peacefulness changing to caution from the south.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows. One of them has been dug free of sand.\n\nYou can feel caution from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the burrow", "response": "It takes a few moments for your eyes to adjust to the dim light.\n\nThe burrow is cool and dark, and the sandy soil smells pleasantly spicy. Emotionally, you feel totally secure here. Intellectually, you know that the unstable walls could collapse on you, and probably kill you, at any time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Dry and invigorating.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "It is utterly silent.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The burrow is cool and dark, and the sandy soil smells pleasantly spicy. Emotionally, you feel totally secure here. Intellectually, you know that the unstable walls could collapse on you, and probably kill you, at any time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You scuff the soil a little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You emerge, blinking, into the sunlight.\n\nPart of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows. One of them has been dug free of sand.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south, and irritation from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The flat river valley here isn't as wet as the marsh further south, and has bloomed into an astonishing wildflower meadow. The flowers are all strange and alien, of course, but the air is fragrant and peaceful. The only sound is the gentle noise of the river to the east. Off to the west the ground begins to rise up to meet the canyon wall, while forests dominate the north.\n\nYou almost run into the fox again. It eagerly begins to chase you.\n\nYou can feel annoyance from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows. One of them has been dug free of sand.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the east.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the burrow", "response": "It takes a few moments for your eyes to adjust to the dim light.\n\nThe burrow is cool and dark, and the sandy soil smells pleasantly spicy. Emotionally, you feel totally secure here. Intellectually, you know that the unstable walls could collapse on you, and probably kill you, at any time.\n\nYou can feel excitement from outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou suddenly notice excitement changing to hunger from outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You emerge, blinking, into the sunlight.\n\nPart of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows. One of them has been dug free of sand.\n\nYou can feel caution from the south, and hunger from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kick", "response": "(the burrows)\nYou give the sandy bank a good whack. Small avalanches of sand start cascading all over, one of them neatly filling up the burrow you dug out.\n\nYou sense there is a new feeling of annoyance from the south and the feeling of hunger fading from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You go to work with your front paws and quickly clear the loose sand out of the burrow. It's surprisingly satisfying work.\n\nThe deer gallop up from the south with a thunder of hooves. They spend several moments looking around with suspicion before returning to their grazing.\n\nYou sense annoyance fading from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The air is good, nearly as good as the Concerto's, but\nuninteresting.\n\nThe buck deer shakes itself. A cloud of dust rises from its mane.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of hunger from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The ground rises to meet the canyon wall to the west here, and small trees are scattered across the slope. There is very little undergrowth, lending the woods an airy, garden-like feel. The trees get denser to the north and east, but space opens out to the south.\n\nThe deer gallop up from the south with a thunder of hooves. They spend several moments looking around with suspicion before returning to their grazing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trees", "response": "The trees are peculiar, very similar to Earth trees and yet somehow different. The geometry is still based on a branching fractal structure but you suspect the rules are different. The leaves are very familiar, though, and unless you make a point of noticing the differences they're just trees.\n\nThe deer stare into space for a while.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of hunger from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The trees have slightly acrid, slightly resiny smell that is not unappealing.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off north.\n\nThe fox approaches from the south. It eagerly begins to chase you.\n\nYou sense hunger fading from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A massive slab of rock has fallen into the woods from the canyon walls to the west. It is halfway sunk into the turf and looks almost sculpted. The canyon wall looms over you from the west. The woodlands parallel it, running north-south, although the canyon steepens to the north. Water glints between the trees to the east.\n\nThe huge boulder towers over the surrounding trees.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off north.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nA half-dozen or so humped, stocky creatures are bustling about, working on the dam: Elysian beavers. They bustle about, working on the dam.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the west.\n\nThe beavers suddenly notice the fox and start hissing threateningly. It stays well over to the west side of the dam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the beavers", "response": "Unlike the other Earth namesakes in the canyon, the beavers here look absolutely nothing like the Earth kind. They're small and\nstocky, with a bulldog neck and serrated tusks that stick out sideways from their mouths which they use to saw through trees. They don't have big teeth, they don't gnaw and they certainly don't have the trademark tail. The dam they're building isn't much good, either.\n\nYou did ask Francis about them, you remember: he was the primary author of the survey report. He just shrugged. \"They had a dam, and we ran out of imagination,\" he said.\n\nThe fox pounces on you. You just have time to think oh, sh---\nas its jaws close on your neck, and then everything stops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.\n\nOver on the other side of the lake, a black animal is playing on the edge of the water. It never seems to stay still and it takes you a few moments to identify it as an Elysian otter.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the south.\n\nYou can feel hostility from the south, and contentment from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the otter", "response": "It's not really an otter, of course; it's a quasi-mammal with the usual cartiligenous backbone that creatures have here. But it's got fur, warm blood, lives in water and eats fish, so the necessities of physics make it look vaguely otter-like, which means that's what everyone on the Concerto calls it.\n\nThe fox pounces on you. You just have time to think oh, sh---\nas its jaws close on your neck, and then everything stops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The trees here are stunted and wiry, and the steeply sloping ground is showing its rocky bones through the thin grass. The canyon is spread out below you: the lake to your east, the woodland covering the lower slopes, and the green dome of the Mother Tree far to the south, now shrunken by distance. The canyon ends not far to the north in a tumble of fallen rock.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off north.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are perched at the very north-west tip of the canyon, where the slopes disintegrate into a tangle of smashed rock. Wiry, heather-like grass grows between the gaps between the boulders, and there are even a few trees. Below to the east is a maelstrom of white water at the head of the river; to the south, the slope begins to flatten.\n\nTiny multicoloured birds dart back and forth on the cliff face above you.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off east.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The river pours out of an aperture in the northern wall of the canyon and tumbles down through a snarl of fallen rock before flowing into the lake, to the south. The noise of rushing water is everywhere. The eastern shore is a sheer rockface, but the western shore is a rocky slope that rises to meet the canyon wall in the distance. Some trees hug the edge of the water.\n\nWater pours around, through, and over the massive pile of boulders. There are nooks and crannies and vortices everywhere.\n\nThe water swirling in one large rock pool in particular catches your eye.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off south.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off south.\n\nOver on the other side of the lake, the otter is basking in the sunlight.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the north.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off south. The beavers relax, disperse, and go about their business again.\n\nThe beavers bustle about, working on the dam.\n\nThe fox is chasing behind you from the north.\n\nThe beavers suddenly notice the fox and start hissing threateningly. It stays well over to the west side of the dam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nA pair of shining eyes stares at you from out of the thorny bush. After a few seconds, the shape of a vaguely anthropoid creature resolves around them. Ah, yes, you remember this: it's a lemur. You have just enough warning to brace yourself before...\n\nThe lemur stares at the strange rabbit with a distant curiosity.\nIts mind is unfocused, blurred by the psychedelic drug in the leaves it loves so much. It knows that the rabbit is unusual, but it doesn't care. It doesn't care much about anything except the leaves. It just sits and watches the world, and occasionally, when the colours focus for a moment, interacts with it.\n\nThat was... unusual.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur languidly picks up a some small insect of some kind, stares at it for a while, and then pulls the legs off before throwing it away.\n\nYou can feel excitement and hostility from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Plant", "response": "Unlike the animals, this plant defies neat categorisation into the Earth ecosystem. A great froth of slightly furry parsley-like leaves shields long, razor sharp thorns underneath. It smells intensely of... something. Mint crossed with vanilla? It's very strong and not very appetising.\n\nThe lemur stares solemnly at you from out of the spiky bush.\n\nYou sense excitement changing to hunger from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Plant", "response": "You gingerly take a mouthful of leaves, avoiding the thorns.\n\nThe lemur scratches itself.\n\nYou sense excitement changing to hunger from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat Plant", "response": "You're not cut out to be a browser.\n\nThe lemur licks itself contemplatively.\n\nYou sense hunger fading and hostility changing to concentration from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell plant", "response": "All you can smell is that plant.\n\nThe lemur gives you a suspicious look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying a bundle of aromatic leaves in your mouth.\n\nThe lemur languidly picks up a some small insect of some kind, stares at it for a while, and then pulls the legs off before throwing it away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nThe beavers bustle about, working on the dam.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine fish", "response": "They're brown and trout-like, but on closer inspection the fins are all wrong and the tail is bifurcated. You think that Elysia could have some very plausible mermaid myths.\n\nOne of the beavers starts whittling a branch with its serrated tusks.\n\nYou sense peacefulness fading from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fish", "response": "(first dropping the bundle of aromatic leaves)\nYou easily catch one of the stranded fish and bite down on the back of its neck. Snap-crunch. You feel nauseous.\n\nA couple of beavers scuffle meaninglessly for a bit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A massive slab of rock has fallen into the woods from the canyon walls to the west. It is halfway sunk into the turf and looks almost sculpted. The canyon wall looms over you from the west. The woodlands parallel it, running north-south, although the canyon steepens to the north. Water glints between the trees to the east.\n\nThe huge boulder towers over the surrounding trees.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the rock", "response": "(the giant rock)\nDropping the dead fish, you jump and scrabble wildly with your powerful hind legs, eventually managing to haul yourself to the top.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Boulder (on the giant rock)\nA massive slab of rock has fallen into the woods from the canyon walls to the west. It is halfway sunk into the turf and looks almost sculpted. The canyon wall looms over you from the west. The woodlands parallel it, running north-south, although the canyon steepens to the north. Water glints between the trees to the east.\n\nYou can see a dead fish here.\n\nYou can feel annoyance from the south, and concentration from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You jump down from the boulder.\n\nThe deer gallop up from the south with a thunder of hooves. They spend several moments looking around with suspicion before returning to their grazing.\n\nYou sense annoyance fading from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fish", "response": "In the absence of any other options, you pick up the dead fish in your mouth.\n\nThe deer suddenly prick up their ears, and then walk off east.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of hunger from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou sense concentration changing to hostility and a new feeling of irritation from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The ground rises to meet the canyon wall to the west here, and small trees are scattered across the slope. There is very little undergrowth, lending the woods an airy, garden-like feel. The trees get denser to the north and east, but space opens out to the south.\n\nYou can feel hunger from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows. One of them has been dug free of sand.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You've already cleared out one of the burrows.\n\nYou sense peacefulness changing to caution from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the fish", "response": "You carefully put down the dead fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You emerge, blinking, into the sunlight.\n\nPart of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows. One of them has been dug free of sand.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The ground rises to meet the canyon wall to the west here, and small trees are scattered across the slope. There is very little undergrowth, lending the woods an airy, garden-like feel. The trees get denser to the north and east, but space opens out to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A massive slab of rock has fallen into the woods from the canyon walls to the west. It is halfway sunk into the turf and looks almost sculpted. The canyon wall looms over you from the west. The woodlands parallel it, running north-south, although the canyon steepens to the north. Water glints between the trees to the east.\n\nThe huge boulder towers over the surrounding trees.\n\nYou can feel annoyance from the north, and concentration from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nThe beavers bustle about, working on the dam.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fish", "response": "You kill another fish.\n\nA small pack of beavers heads purposefully into the woods.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of annoyance from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish", "response": "(the dead fish)\nIt smells vile.\n\nOne of the beavers starts whittling a branch with its serrated tusks.\n\nYou sense annoyance changing to irritation from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.\n\nOver on the other side of the lake, you can see the otter with its head out of the water, staring at you intently.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bones", "response": "They're old and bleached the sun, and look well-gnawed. There's quite a lot of them.\n\nOver on the other side of the lake, you can see the otter with its head out of the water, staring at you intently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave", "response": "You wave, feeling foolish.\n\nOver on the other side of the lake, you can see the otter with its head out of the water, staring at you intently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show fish to the otter", "response": "(the dead fish to the otter)\nThe otter is unimpressed.\n\nOver on the other side of the lake, you can see the otter with its head out of the water, staring at you intently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the fish", "response": "(the dead fish)\nDropped.\n\nThere's a sudden splash as the otter surfaces just offshore. Close up, it's noticeably bigger than you are, with a pointed nose and alert looking whiskers. It stares at you with interest.\n\nThe otter is bored. And a bit hungry. And cross. Mostly bored.\nThere's lots of crunchy things in the lake, and they're good, but what it really wants is fish. And something to do. The creatures on the dam won't let it near the fish, but this rabbit has one! But there's something not right about it. Maybe it's dangerous? But it has a fish for the otter. It must love the otter!\n\nWhile you're reeling from this bombardment of images, the otter wriggles ashore and scurries up the beach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fish", "response": "Which do you mean, the dead fish or the fish bones?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dead", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe otter dives back into the water and vanishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe otter sits back on its haunches and gobbles down the fish with every appearance of satisfaction. It watches you eagerly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite otter", "response": "You're a rabbit. About the only thing you're capable of hurting are leaves.\n\nThe otter waits for you patiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nThe beavers bustle about, working on the dam.\n\nThe otter follows you from the north, whiskers twitching. It appears to be a bit less confident. It looks longingly at the fish jumping in the pools, but eyes the beavers and stays well over on the west side of the shore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A massive slab of rock has fallen into the woods from the canyon walls to the west. It is halfway sunk into the turf and looks almost sculpted. The canyon wall looms over you from the west. The woodlands parallel it, running north-south, although the canyon steepens to the north. Water glints between the trees to the east.\n\nThe huge boulder towers over the surrounding trees.\n\nThe otter follows you from the east, whiskers twitching. It is getting a little puzzled.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The ground rises to meet the canyon wall to the west here, and small trees are scattered across the slope. There is very little undergrowth, lending the woods an airy, garden-like feel. The trees get denser to the north and east, but space opens out to the south.\n\nThe otter follows you from the north, whiskers twitching. It is beginning to look disappointed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows. One of them has been dug free of sand.\n\nThe otter follows you from the north, whiskers twitching. It gives you a look full of betrayal, but is seems to have picked up an interesting scent from the burrow.\n\nYou can feel caution from the south, and hunger from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe otter wriggles into the rabbit burrow. It's really too big to fit and the burrow starts to crumble around it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kick", "response": "(the burrows)\nYou give the sandy bank a good whack. It's already beginning to shift from the way the otter is wriggling about, and the burrow falls in on itself with a thump. There's a brief squeak from inside,\nfollowed by a very faint, helpless whine which mercifully stops quickly.\n\nYou sense hunger fading from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You start digging and quickly uncover the otter's body. You haul it out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the body", "response": "Your absence of hands is a bit of problem, but you end up picking up one end of the otter's body in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You laboriously drag the otter's body with you.\n\nThe flat river valley here isn't as wet as the marsh further south, and has bloomed into an astonishing wildflower meadow. The flowers are all strange and alien, of course, but the air is fragrant and peaceful. The only sound is the gentle noise of the river to the east. Off to the west the ground begins to rise up to meet the canyon wall, while forests dominate the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You laboriously drag the otter's body with you.\n\nThe river is narrow and rocky here, and the river churns noisily between the boulders. Trees come down to the water's edge on both sides, and twigs and dead leaves spiral dizzyingly in the vortices. The woods are fairly dense here and seem to go on in all directions.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You laboriously drag the otter's body with you.\n\nHere in the shadow of the Mother Tree the ground is flat and wet; reed-like plants with white flowers grow everywhere and the air is musky. The river winds slowly along the east side of the marsh with woodlands beyond it. To the west the ground rises to what look like a series of sandy bluffs. The ground looks drier to the north where the canyon ramparts start to close in.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You laboriously drag the otter's body with you.\n\nThis little grassy hollow half-way up the side of the canyon looks like it's been colonised by rabbits. The tough grass-like ground covering has been dug away and the sandy soil underneath is full of burrows. Down to the east the view over the Mother Tree is spectacular, much better than it was from the top; you can probably climb up to the west. The slope steepens and becomes impassably steep to the south, but the warren continues to the north.\n\nThere are burrows everywhere.\n\nEyes seem to be staring at you from out of the burrows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "It takes a few moments for your eyes to adjust to the dim light.\n\nYou laboriously drag the otter's body with you.\n\nThe trees here are huge: massive columnar towers rising out of the soft green turf to support the dense leaf canopy above. Golden rays angle down between the trees, filling the vast space with dim light, and reflecting off the river that runs down the east side. The air seems permeated with peacefulness.\n\nLarge green cocoons are attached to the bases of some of the trees.\n\nA cocoon silently folds open. There's a moment's pause, and then a grey rabbit leaps out, streaks past you, and is gone.\n\nThe cocoon closes again.\n\nOne of the cocoons unfolds, revealing a mass of soft, white padding. It seems to be waiting for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the body in the cocoon", "response": "(the closed cocoons)\nYou're carrying things around with your teeth. The only way you can do that is to drag it there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cocoon", "response": "(the open cocoon)\nYou climb onto the open cocoon and burrow your way into the cottony stuff.\n\nYou laboriously drag the otter's body with you.\n\nYou are immersed in a warm, comforting heap of something soft. It envelops you like an old blanket.\n\nThe cocoon folds up around you, wrapping you in comforting, secure darkness.\n\n\"Telepathy?\" you say.\n\nYou're in one of the Concerto's observation bubbles: a\ntransparent sphere of force field held just off the hull. The huge bulk of the starship extends for kilometres behind you, but you've seen it before, and right now you have eyes only for the glowing jewel of the planet Elysia rolling past below.\n\n\"Telepathy,\" repeats the Concerto. \"The real thing.\"\n\n\"Some sort of organic radio, I presume,\" you say. \"Or high bandwidth ultrasound. Or---\"\n\n\"No,\" says the Concerto impatiently. \"It's not\nelectromagnetic, nor a matter wave, nor chemical message-passing. I've even checked for gravity waves. This is something new. And you know what that means.\"\n\nYou don't say the words. You don't have to. New physics. A\nnew lead to the unsolveable mystery of the universe. New growth in the barren garden of science.\n\n\"The planet is soaked in it,\" says the Concerto. \"I've built\nsome crude detectors --- just bits of animal brain inside NMR scanners --- and mapped the surface. The distribution's not even, but there's telepathic radiation everywhere.\"\n\nsqueamishness.\n\n\"Elysia is a perfect world,\" it continues. \"Maybe too perfect. It may be too valuable to colonise. It may be too dangerous to\ncolonise. I have no idea whether there's any effect on human minds.\"\n\n\"You'll need some pretty hard evidence to persuade the exploitation team to stay in space when Elysia's right here,\" you say.\n\n\"And I don't have it,\" says the Concerto. \"There's an effect.\nThat's all I know. That's all we know. We don't have any idea\nof the what the implications are, only what they might be.\"\n\n\"You think the exploitation team won't buy it,\" you say. \"You think they'll want to go ahead with full scale colonisation and only investigate this when they're down there.\"\n\n\"Of course they will,\" says the Concerto. \"The exploration\nteam live in space. They'll be perfectly happy about staying in orbit for another decade to look into this --- most of them were going to stay here anyway. But the exploitation team won't tolerate that.\"\n\n\"So what are you going to do?\" you ask.\n\n\"The exploitation team is still frozen, which means I hold their proxy votes,\" says the Concerto. \"For important decisions I have to\nwake a representative sample, and this is important. This means I have to wake them. I have to, you understand?\"\n\nThe Concerto's own built-in safeguards limit how much it can\nbend the rules. \"When?\" you say.\n\n\"Soon,\" the Concerto says. \"I'll delay as long as I can. But\nI must wake them. In the mean time... we need more data.\nThat's where you come in.\"\n\n\"Ah,\" you say. \"You want me to go and look and then tell you what to say.\"\n\n\"Correct,\" says the Concerto.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You fight your way free of the cottony stuff. Dim light blinds you for a moment.\n\nThe trees here are huge: massive columnar towers rising out of the soft green turf to support the dense leaf canopy above. Golden rays angle down between the trees, filling the vast space with dim light, and reflecting off the river that runs down the east side. Everything seems very quiet, as if you are being watched with caution.\n\nLarge green cocoons are attached to the bases of some of the trees.\n\nAs you climb out of the cocoon it silently folds closed behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You walk over to the water and study your reflection. The river is wide and dark, and in the dim light makes an almost perfect mirror.\n\nThe features you see have changed again. The narrow, weasel-like muzzle, the whiskers, the short, pointed ears --- yes, you are now looking out of the otter's eyes.\n\nOn close examination, you seem to recognise the features. Your new body is, you think, the same one that you dragged out of the sand pit up the side of the canyon. You don't really want to think too hard about the implications of that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You emerge, blinking, into the sunlight.\n\nSheer rock walls tower above you to the east and west, and only slightly less impressive is the green wall of the Mother Tree to the north. But to the south the ground just stops, and the river pours endlessly into the void.\n\nYou can see a glint of metal high up to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You eye the crumbling, and very high, cliff face dubiously. Not a chance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "your heart pound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "It takes a few moments for your eyes to adjust to the dim light.\n\nThe trees here are huge: massive columnar towers rising out of the soft green turf to support the dense leaf canopy above. Golden rays angle down between the trees, filling the vast space with dim light, and reflecting off the river that runs down the east side. Everything seems very quiet, as if you are being watched with caution.\n\nLarge green cocoons are attached to the bases of some of the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You emerge, blinking, into the sunlight.\n\nHere in the shadow of the Mother Tree the ground is flat and wet; reed-like plants with white flowers grow everywhere and the air is musky. The river winds slowly along the east side of the marsh with woodlands beyond it. To the west the ground rises to what look like a series of sandy bluffs. The ground looks drier to the north where the canyon ramparts start to close in.\n\nYou can feel annoyance and peacefulness from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The flat river valley here isn't as wet as the marsh further south, and has bloomed into an astonishing wildflower meadow. The flowers are all strange and alien, of course, but the air is fragrant and peaceful. The only sound is the gentle noise of the river to the east. Off to the west the ground begins to rise up to meet the canyon wall, while forests dominate the north.\n\nYou can feel hunger from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You easily swim across the river.\n\nThe ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nThe deer gallop up from the south with a thunder of hooves. They spend several moments looking around with suspicion before returning to their grazing.\n\nThe beavers suddenly dash up towards the deer, trying to drive them away from the dam and the river bed.\n\nThe beavers are confronting the deer, forming a line blocking them from crossing the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish", "response": "It's still moving.\n\nOne of the beavers darts in to nip one of the deer's legs, but a flourish of the deer's horn sends it running.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of hunger from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fish", "response": "You kill another fish.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off north. The beavers relax, disperse, and go about their business again.\n\nA small pack of beavers heads purposefully into the woods.\n\nThe fox approaches from the south. It reflexively begins to chase you.\n\nThe beavers suddenly notice the fox and start hissing threateningly. It stays well over to the west side of the dam.\n\nYou sense hunger fading from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off north.\n\nThe fox chases behind you from the south before realising that you're bigger than it is and coming to a rather confused halt.\n\nYou can feel hostility from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You slide smoothly into the lake. The water feels cool and supremely comfortable against your fur.\n\nThe water is crystal clear, and rays of orange light shine down from above. The bottom is covered in grass-like weed, dotted with fallen boulders of all sizes from the cliff face above.\n\nCrayfish run around on the lake bottom, snapping their pincers threateningly at each other.\n\nYou can feel hunger from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the crayfish", "response": "(first dropping the dead fish)\nYou swim down, but whenever you get close to one, it hides under a rock, and all you can see are beady eyes staring balefully at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish", "response": "It smells vile. Shouldn't you like these things now? You find\nyourself feeling cheated and angry, somehow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou sense hunger fading from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "There's nothing to swim in here.\n\nYou're already swimming!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The water is crystal clear, and rays of orange light shine down from above. The bottom is covered in grass-like weed, dotted with fallen boulders of all sizes from the cliff face above.\n\nCrayfish run around on the lake bottom, snapping their pincers threateningly at each other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boulders", "response": "They each have a waving mane of weed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the weed", "response": "Looking closely, you think it's the same species as the grass on the surface, but much larger.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the weed", "response": "(first dropping the dead fish)\nYou quite like the grass where it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You try to swim upstream, but near the head of the lake the current is too much for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You slide smoothly into the lake. The water feels cool and supremely comfortable against your fur.\n\nThe water is crystal clear, and rays of orange light shine down from above. The bottom is covered in grass-like weed, dotted with fallen boulders of all sizes from the cliff face above.\n\nCrayfish run around on the lake bottom, snapping their pincers threateningly at each other.\n\nYou can see a dead fish floating nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The trees here are stunted and wiry, and the steeply sloping ground is showing its rocky bones through the thin grass. The canyon is spread out below you: the lake to your east, the woodland covering the lower slopes, and the green dome of the Mother Tree far to the south, now shrunken by distance. The canyon ends not far to the north in a tumble of fallen rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are perched at the very north-west tip of the canyon, where the slopes disintegrate into a tangle of smashed rock. Wiry, heather-like grass grows between the gaps between the boulders, and there are even a few trees. Below to the east is a maelstrom of white water at the head of the river; to the south, the slope begins to flatten.\n\nTiny multicoloured birds dart back and forth on the cliff face above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The river pours out of an aperture in the northern wall of the canyon and tumbles down through a snarl of fallen rock before flowing into the lake, to the south. The noise of rushing water is everywhere. The eastern shore is a sheer rockface, but the western shore is a rocky slope that rises to meet the canyon wall in the distance. Some trees hug the edge of the water.\n\nWater pours around, through, and over the massive pile of boulders. There are nooks and crannies and vortices everywhere.\n\nThe water swirling in one large rock pool in particular catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pool", "response": "Water's pouring into it, but there doesn't seem to be any exit. There's a narrow ledge leading round it to the north, but if you fell in, the sides are far too steep to climb out of...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You nervously crawl along the ledge.\n\nYou are balanced on a rock overhanging the north edge of the rock pool. The boulder is slippery from spray, and shifts under your feet when you move your weight giving you the feeling like it might give way at any moment. The narrow ledge to the south leads back to safety.\n\nThe rock pool churns unnervingly below you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The river pours out of an aperture in the northern wall of the canyon and tumbles down through a snarl of fallen rock before flowing into the lake, to the south. The noise of rushing water is everywhere. The eastern shore is a sheer rockface, but the western shore is a rocky slope that rises to meet the canyon wall in the distance. Some trees hug the edge of the water.\n\nWater pours around, through, and over the massive pile of boulders. There are nooks and crannies and vortices everywhere.\n\nThe water swirling in one large rock pool in particular catches your eye.\n\nThe deer gallop up from the south with a thunder of hooves. They spend several moments looking around with suspicion before returning to their grazing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite deer", "response": "The moment the thought crosses your mind, the biggest deer turns to stare at you balefully, and you find yourself thinking about how that curved horn could so easily skewer your body to the ground.\n\nThe buck deer sniffs the air.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of hunger from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the deer", "response": "There are five of the creatures. One male, two females, and a couple of juveniles? It's very hard to tell, as they're all very similar apart from the size. They're smaller than you were expecting from the survey, barely the size of a large dog, but the blue-green fur is just as startling as you remember. They each have a single forward-curving horn that looks extremely sharp.\n\nThe deer suddenly look up, and then bound off west.\n\nThe fox approaches from the south. It reflexively begins to chase you.\n\nYou sense hunger fading from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You nervously crawl along the ledge.\n\nYou are balanced on a rock overhanging the north edge of the rock pool. The boulder is slippery from spray, and shifts under your feet when you move your weight giving you the feeling like it might give way at any moment. The narrow ledge to the south leads back to safety.\n\nThe rock pool churns unnervingly below you.\n\nThe fox chases you from the south onto the ledge --- which abruptly gives way underneath you. You, the fox, and what seems like several tonnes of rock drop into the water in a shocking plunge that stuns you for a few moments.\n\nFrom down here the sides of the pool are steeper and even less climbable than they were from above --- this is less of a pool and more of a well, and you are at the bottom of it. One of the many waterfalls crashes into the dark water near where you are and vortices in the water buffet you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You're already swimming.\n\nThe fox is mindlessly flailing at the water in panic, trying to stay afloat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe fox is clawing at the sides of the pit, trying to climb out. A few rocks come down but it can't get any purchase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe fox is exhausted and can't keep its head above the water any more. Some bubbles come up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThere is a final convulsion, and the fox is still, floating with its head just under the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fox", "response": "You swim up to the fox's body and take a firm hold with your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The sides of the pool and sheer. There's no way out that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "You're already swimming.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You swim down into the depths of the pool. A current grabs you and whisks you through a concealed underwater tunnel before spitting you out again.\n\nYou tow the fox's body along behind you.\n\nThe water is crystal clear, and rays of orange light shine down from above. The bottom is covered in grass-like weed, dotted with fallen boulders of all sizes from the cliff face above.\n\nCrayfish run around on the lake bottom, snapping their pincers threateningly at each other.\n\nYou can see a dead fish floating nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You haul the fox's body out of the water.\n\nThe lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You laboriously drag the fox's body with you.\n\nA haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nThe beavers bustle about, working on the dam.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You laboriously drag the fox's body with you.\n\nThe river is narrow and rocky here, and the river churns noisily between the boulders. Trees come down to the water's edge on both sides, and twigs and dead leaves spiral dizzyingly in the vortices. The woods are fairly dense here and seem to go on in all directions.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You laboriously drag the fox's body with you.\n\nThe flat river valley here isn't as wet as the marsh further south, and has bloomed into an astonishing wildflower meadow. The flowers are all strange and alien, of course, but the air is fragrant and peaceful. The only sound is the gentle noise of the river to the east. Off to the west the ground begins to rise up to meet the canyon wall, while forests dominate the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You laboriously drag the fox's body with you.\n\nHere in the shadow of the Mother Tree the ground is flat and wet; reed-like plants with white flowers grow everywhere and the air is musky. The river winds slowly along the east side of the marsh with woodlands beyond it. To the west the ground rises to what look like a series of sandy bluffs. The ground looks drier to the north where the canyon ramparts start to close in.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "It takes a few moments for your eyes to adjust to the dim light.\n\nYou laboriously drag the fox's body with you.\n\nThe trees here are huge: massive columnar towers rising out of the soft green turf to support the dense leaf canopy above. Golden rays angle down between the trees, filling the vast space with dim light, and reflecting off the river that runs down the east side. Everything seems very quiet, as if you are being watched with caution.\n\nLarge green cocoons are attached to the bases of some of the trees.\n\nOne of the cocoons unfolds, revealing a mass of soft, white padding. It seems to be waiting for you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cocoon", "response": "(the open cocoon)\nYou climb onto the open cocoon and burrow your way into the cottony stuff.\n\nYou laboriously drag the fox's body with you.\n\nYou are immersed in a warm, comforting heap of something soft. It envelops you like an old blanket.\n\nThe cocoon folds up around you, wrapping you in comforting, secure darkness.\n\nYou've barely sipped your vodka and orange when you hear someone call your name. You look up. \"Oh, there you are,\" you say.\n\nFrancis Terrier, head of the survey department, and one of the few people who can tell the Concerto what to do, sits down\nheavily beside you, takes his drink --- now warm --- and stares tiredly at the view for a while. The Concerto's vast garden\nslowly tumbles around the pair of you. The Centrifugal Bar makes the planet-bred exploitation team nauseous. However, you're both in the exploration team, and after sixteen hours of continuous briefings you find it pleasantly relaxing.\n\n\"I need to tell you something,\" he says eventually. You raise your eyebrows at him. \"Things are tense here. Really tense,\" he says.\n\n\"Did smalltalk go out of fashion while I was in cryo?\" you mutter, and sigh. \"Is this about the telepathy thing?\"\n\n\"Keep your voice down!\" he hisses, glancing around. \"God, and you're supposed to be our hotshot intuitionist... no. That's not what it's about. It's about delaying colonisation.\"\n\n\"Are we?\" you say. \"I thought that hadn't been decided yet.\"\n\nHe says nothing for a moment, and then says, \"What if I were to tell you that not all the exploitation team is frozen?\"\n\nYou raise your eyebrows. \"How is that possible?\"\n\n\"The cryo facilities are run by humans,\" he says. \"Part of the frankenstein safeguards, remember? And there's a fringe element of the explorer team that sympathises with the exploiters.\"\n\n\"There always is,\" you say. \"It's called the human condition...\" You frown. \"Waking the exploitation team before the planet's been cleared for colonisation violates the protocols.\"\n\n\"Sure, but they think the Concerto is already\nviolating the protocols,\" Francis says quietly.\n\n\"But that's impossible,\" you says. \"The safeguards...\"\n\nHe waves your protests away. \"I know that, you know that, and they would know that if they were thinking rationally, but they're not. They're terrified that this is a bid for power by the\nConcerto, and they're taking action to prevent that.\"\n\n\"That's mad,\" you say flatly.\n\n\"It gets worse,\" he says. \"In this scenario, you are an accomplice to the Concerto.\"\n\nAs you stare at him blankly, something moves in the back of your mind. \"You think that they might strike at me, as a proxy for the\nConcerto. You're trying ot tell me I'm in danger.\"\n\n\"Right now, you're popular,\" Francis says. \"That work you did on Brimstone.\"\n\n\"But nobody falls faster than a failed saint,\" you say. The pieces fit together inexorably in your head: hatred, vilification, polarisation, extremism. Accusations of treason. An 'execution'. And, of course, if they truly believe that your decision is a foregone conclusion, there's no need to wait until you actually make it before\ntaking action. \"Crap. How many of these people are there?\"\n\nFrancis has been watching your face move as you work through all this. \"Enough,\" he says. \"I take it martyrdom's not your thing?\"\n\n\"Hardly,\" you say. \"What do you suggest I do?\"\n\nFrancis gives you a hard stare. \"Be very, very careful.\"\n\nYou wake.\n\nSomething's different.\n\nYou are immersed in a warm, comforting heap of something soft. It envelops you like an old blanket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You fight your way free of the cottony stuff. Dim light blinds you for a moment.\n\nThe trees here are huge: massive columnar towers rising out of the soft green turf to support the dense leaf canopy above. Golden rays angle down between the trees, filling the vast space with dim light, and reflecting off the river that runs down the east side. Everything seems very quiet, as if you are being watched with caution.\n\nLarge green cocoons are attached to the bases of some of the trees.\n\nAs you climb out of the cocoon it silently folds closed behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You walk over to the water and study your reflection. The river is wide and dark, and in the dim light makes an almost perfect mirror.\n\nAs expected, the face looking back at you is the fox's. Yes. It's definitely the same one that you dragged out of the lake.\n\nIf this is the fox's body, what happened to the fox's mind?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You emerge, blinking, into the sunlight.\n\nHere in the shadow of the Mother Tree the ground is flat and wet; reed-like plants with white flowers grow everywhere and the air is musky. The river winds slowly along the east side of the marsh with woodlands beyond it. To the west the ground rises to what look like a series of sandy bluffs. The ground looks drier to the north where the canyon ramparts start to close in.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The flat river valley here isn't as wet as the marsh further south, and has bloomed into an astonishing wildflower meadow. The flowers are all strange and alien, of course, but the air is fragrant and peaceful. The only sound is the gentle noise of the river to the east. Off to the west the ground begins to rise up to meet the canyon wall, while forests dominate the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The river is narrow and rocky here, and the river churns noisily between the boulders. Trees come down to the water's edge on both sides, and twigs and dead leaves spiral dizzyingly in the vortices. The woods are fairly dense here and seem to go on in all directions.\n\nYou can feel concentration from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nThe beavers suddenly notice you and start hissing threateningly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite beavers", "response": "You brace yourself to leap --- the beavers are big and actually look quite dangerous. But then a wave of frustration and anger descends on you, and the world vanishes into a red blur and a flood of rage so intense that it's an unbearable pressure in your head. The riots on the Concerto, your helplessness on Elysia, the pointless\ndeaths above and below, all meld into one.\n\nYou come to your senses in the middle of a massacre. Torn beaver bodies lie everywhere. You've killed them all. You start shaking with shock and horror.\n\nOh, you think. That's where the fox's mind went.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the beavers", "response": "Bloody and torn, almost mutilated. You shudder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the beavers", "response": "(first taking the dead beavers)\nYou don't even want to look at them, let alone touch them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.\n\nPain suddenly hits you, and you realise that you're covered in scrapes and gouges and one nasty cut on the side of the head that narrowly misses your eye. The beavers fought back. You find yourself licking your wounds, numbly seeking comfort.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Plant", "response": "You gingerly take a mouthful of leaves, avoiding the thorns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat Plant", "response": "You're not cut out to be a browser.\n\nYou sense peacefulness fading from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nThe grisly remains of the dead beavers are scattered among the rocks.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nBelatedly, you realise that whatever strange telepathic experience you shared with the other animals in the canyon did not happen with the beavers. You could sense their emotions, but beyond that they were as closed to you as they would have been had you been human.\n\nDoes this mean anything? Does that mean that the Mother Tree's mysterious miracle does not work on them and that they are now\ntruly dead, with no chance of living again?\n\nIt is horribly tempting to find out. Their bodies are right there, after all. But you need to be a fox too badly, and besides, you'd rather not know...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Nestled in the south-east corner of the canyon, the terrain here sweeps up from the river to a low pass through the canyon wall to the east. Through the dense trees you can just make out the green dome of the Mother Tree far below to the south-west.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of peacefulness from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur seems to find something very interesting under one armpit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bite lemur", "response": "You keep thinking about the beavers. Maybe actually killing\nthe lemur isn't strictly necessary.\n\nThe lemur languidly picks up a some small insect of some kind, stares at it for a while, and then pulls the legs off before throwing it away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The river's in the way, and foxes can't swim.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The river's in the way, and foxes can't swim.\n\nThere's a loud rustling of leaves as the lemur swings up from the south, runs down a tree and dives into the spiky bush.\n\nYou sense peacefulness fading from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Nestled in the south-east corner of the canyon, the terrain here sweeps up from the river to a low pass through the canyon wall to the east. Through the dense trees you can just make out the green dome of the Mother Tree far below to the south-west.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The pass in the canyon wall, now behind you to the west, leads out into open desert. Barren sand stretches off in all directions to the flat horizon.\n\nA track seems to have been scraped in the sand, heading south. There's something large and metallic in the distance that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "There's nowhere to go out there.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of peacefulness from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lemur", "response": "(first dropping the bundle of aromatic leaves)\nThere's no way you, or anyone else, can reach the lemur while it's inside those thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The desert abruptly drops away on two sides here: to the west you can see the green dome of the Mother Tree a few hundred metres below, and to the south the incomparably vaster drop down to the sea of clouds below. The cliff continues east as far as the eye can see.\n\nOf considerably more interest, however, is the wreckage of the Semiquaver.\n\nThe shuttle's main hatch is tightly closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Semiquaver", "response": "Looking at the smashed shuttle, you find yourself utterly astonished that it made it down in one piece. Most of the engine module is simply missing, the hull truncated half-way along in a jumble of twisted wreckage. The shuttle hit the ground to the north of here, and skidded south, stopping just in time --- you can see the burnt out shield projectors where the Semiquaver tried to dig into the sand in\na desperate attempt to stop itself. It worked, too: only a few metres more and the Semiquaver would have gone over the edge of the\ncliff and fallen down to the lowlands. The nose actually overhangs the edge.\n\nIt looks completely dead. You hope the Semiquaver's simple\nmind survived. You want to buy it a drink and tell it what a good job it did.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open hatch", "response": "The access panel for the hatch is about a metre and a half above the ground. It obviously wasn't designed for foxes.\n\nremedy this design fault.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hatch", "response": "The Semiquaver's main hatch is on the starboard side, now\nfacing west. It's not locked, per se, but in order to prevent accidents it will only open if you enter an access code on a little panel. (The code is written underneath.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the code", "response": "A little nine-digit keypad is next to the door. The access code is written underneath. (It's 314159, of course.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Type 314159", "response": "The buttons are designed to be pushed by fingers, which foxes lack. Plus, it's too high to reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The air is good, nearly as good as the Concerto's, but\nuninteresting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "NF-changes", "response": "Ok.\n\n%% Enter a save filename to read:", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "NF-changes", "response": "Ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "That would be suicide.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The pass in the canyon wall, now behind you to the west, leads out into open desert. Barren sand stretches off in all directions to the flat horizon.\n\nA track seems to have been scraped in the sand, heading south. There's something large and metallic in the distance that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Nestled in the south-east corner of the canyon, the terrain here sweeps up from the river to a low pass through the canyon wall to the east. Through the dense trees you can just make out the green dome of the Mother Tree far below to the south-west.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Plant", "response": "You gingerly take a mouthful of leaves, avoiding the thorns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nYou can also see a bundle of aromatic leaves here.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The river's in the way, and foxes can't swim.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The river pours out of an aperture in the northern wall of the canyon and tumbles down through a snarl of fallen rock before flowing into the lake, to the south. The noise of rushing water is everywhere. The eastern shore is a sheer rockface, but the western shore is a rocky slope that rises to meet the canyon wall in the distance. Some trees hug the edge of the water.\n\nWater pours around, through, and over the massive pile of boulders. There are nooks and crannies and vortices everywhere.\n\nThe water swirling in one large rock pool in particular catches your eye.\n\nYou can feel contentment from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are perched at the very north-west tip of the canyon, where the slopes disintegrate into a tangle of smashed rock. Wiry, heather-like grass grows between the gaps between the boulders, and there are even a few trees. Below to the east is a maelstrom of white water at the head of the river; to the south, the slope begins to flatten.\n\nTiny multicoloured birds dart back and forth on the cliff face above you.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The trees here are stunted and wiry, and the steeply sloping ground is showing its rocky bones through the thin grass. The canyon is spread out below you: the lake to your east, the woodland covering the lower slopes, and the green dome of the Mother Tree far to the south, now shrunken by distance. The canyon ends not far to the north in a tumble of fallen rock.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A massive slab of rock has fallen into the woods from the canyon walls to the west. It is halfway sunk into the turf and looks almost sculpted. The canyon wall looms over you from the west. The woodlands parallel it, running north-south, although the canyon steepens to the north. Water glints between the trees to the east.\n\nThe huge boulder towers over the surrounding trees.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The ground rises to meet the canyon wall to the west here, and small trees are scattered across the slope. There is very little undergrowth, lending the woods an airy, garden-like feel. The trees get denser to the north and east, but space opens out to the south.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the south.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This little grassy hollow half-way up the side of the canyon looks like it's been colonised by rabbits. The tough grass-like ground covering has been dug away and the sandy soil underneath is full of burrows. Down to the east the view over the Mother Tree is spectacular, much better than it was from the top; you can probably climb up to the west. The slope steepens and becomes impassably steep to the south, but the warren continues to the north.\n\nThere are burrows everywhere.\n\nEyes seem to be staring at you from out of the burrows.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Here in the shadow of the Mother Tree the ground is flat and wet; reed-like plants with white flowers grow everywhere and the air is musky. The river winds slowly along the east side of the marsh with woodlands beyond it. To the west the ground rises to what look like a series of sandy bluffs. The ground looks drier to the north where the canyon ramparts start to close in.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the north.\n\nYou can feel caution from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The flat river valley here isn't as wet as the marsh further south, and has bloomed into an astonishing wildflower meadow. The flowers are all strange and alien, of course, but the air is fragrant and peaceful. The only sound is the gentle noise of the river to the east. Off to the west the ground begins to rise up to meet the canyon wall, while forests dominate the north.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The river is narrow and rocky here, and the river churns noisily between the boulders. Trees come down to the water's edge on both sides, and twigs and dead leaves spiral dizzyingly in the vortices. The woods are fairly dense here and seem to go on in all directions.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nThe grisly remains of the dead beavers are scattered among the rocks.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the north.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the beavers", "response": "Not when you're carrying the bundle of aromatic leaves in your mouth!\n\nYou sense a new feeling of annoyance from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a bundle of aromatic leaves in your mouth.\n\nYou sense annoyance changing to irritation from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the leaves", "response": "(the bundle of aromatic leaves)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat Plant", "response": "You're not cut out to be a browser.\n\nThe lemur gives you a suspicious look.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of contentment from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nThe grisly remains of the dead beavers are scattered among the rocks.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the west.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nYou can also see a bundle of aromatic leaves here.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack lemur", "response": "You keep thinking about the beavers. Maybe actually killing\nthe lemur isn't strictly necessary.\n\nThe lemur licks itself contemplatively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lemur", "response": "There must be something about Earth-like planets. In shape the Elysian lemur is a startlingly similar creature to the ones in the\nConcerto's garden, with long spindly arms and legs and\ndelicate fingers. The green and brown mottled fur is different, though.\n\nYou suddenly notice that the lemur only has four fingers. So do your paws, for that matter; but the lemur's are long, dextrous... button pushing...\n\nThe lemur gives you a suspicious look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the lemur", "response": "There's no way you, or anyone else, can reach the lemur while it's inside those thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur licks itself contemplatively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the thorns", "response": "You gingerly take a mouthful of leaves, avoiding the thorns.\n\nThe lemur seems to find something very interesting under one armpit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the leaves", "response": "(the bundle of aromatic leaves)\nDropped.\n\nThe lemur starts carefully pulling leaves off a twig and popping them into its mouth, one by one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The river's in the way, and foxes can't swim.\n\nThe lemur scratches itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nThe grisly remains of the dead beavers are scattered among the rocks.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.\n\nYou can feel contentment from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the beaver", "response": "You don't even want to look at them, let alone touch them.\n\nYou sense contentment changing to irritation from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a dead fish in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can also see two bundles of aromatic leaves here.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Nestled in the south-east corner of the canyon, the terrain here sweeps up from the river to a low pass through the canyon wall to the east. Through the dense trees you can just make out the green dome of the Mother Tree far below to the south-west.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur seems to find something very interesting under one armpit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the fish to the lemur", "response": "The lemur doesn't seem interested.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the fish", "response": "Dropped.\n\nThe lemur scratches itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell lemur", "response": "There's no way you, or anyone else, can reach the lemur while it's inside those thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the thorns", "response": "You gingerly take a mouthful of leaves, avoiding the thorns.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nYou can also see two bundles of aromatic leaves here.\n\nThe lemur languidly picks up a some small insect of some kind, stares at it for a while, and then pulls the legs off before throwing it away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the leaves to the lemur", "response": "(the bundle of aromatic leaves to the lemur)\nThe lemur doesn't seem interested.\n\nThe lemur seems to find something very interesting under one armpit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the leaves", "response": "(the bundle of aromatic leaves)\nDropped.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the thorns", "response": "You gingerly take a mouthful of leaves, avoiding the thorns.\n\nThe lemur gives you a suspicious look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the leaves", "response": "(the bundle of aromatic leaves)\nDropped.\n\nThe lemur scratches itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the thorns", "response": "You gingerly take a mouthful of leaves, avoiding the thorns.\n\nThe lemur stares solemnly at you from out of the spiky bush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell leaves", "response": "(the bundle of aromatic leaves)\nAll you can smell is that plant.\n\nThe lemur licks itself contemplatively.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell plant", "response": "All you can smell is that plant.\n\nThe lemur stares solemnly at you from out of the spiky bush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the thorns", "response": "That wouldn't achieve much.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur languidly picks up a some small insect of some kind, stares at it for a while, and then pulls the legs off before throwing it away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break bushes", "response": "That wouldn't achieve much.\n\nThe lemur scratches itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the bushes", "response": "You're not cut out to be a browser.\n\nThe lemur languidly picks up a some small insect of some kind, stares at it for a while, and then pulls the legs off before throwing it away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "The fox is sharp, focused. You feel like a razor, slicing through the world. Everything around you looks dingy and grey --- but anything that moves appears in vivid colour. Knowing that you are a weapon, that you live to kill, makes you tense and on edge. You find yourself wishing you were the otter again.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the south.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nYou can also see four bundles of aromatic leaves here.\n\nThe lemur blinks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The river's in the way, and foxes can't swim.\n\nThe lemur stares solemnly at you from out of the spiky bush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The river is narrow and rocky here, and the river churns noisily between the boulders. Trees come down to the water's edge on both sides, and twigs and dead leaves spiral dizzyingly in the vortices. The woods are fairly dense here and seem to go on in all directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The ground rises to meet the canyon wall to the west here, and small trees are scattered across the slope. There is very little undergrowth, lending the woods an airy, garden-like feel. The trees get denser to the north and east, but space opens out to the south.\n\nYou can feel contentment from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou sense contentment changing to irritation from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You scratch about a bit, but you're not really built for digging.\n\nYou sense peacefulness changing to caution from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This little grassy hollow half-way up the side of the canyon looks like it's been colonised by rabbits. The tough grass-like ground covering has been dug away and the sandy soil underneath is full of burrows. Down to the east the view over the Mother Tree is spectacular, much better than it was from the top; you can probably climb up to the west. The slope steepens and becomes impassably steep to the south, but the warren continues to the north.\n\nThere are burrows everywhere.\n\nEyes seem to be staring at you from out of the burrows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You have a very strong feeling that the rabbits are more dangerous than they look. That's probably not a good idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill the rabbit", "response": "They're all down the burrows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go burrow", "response": "You're too large to fit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows.\n\nYou can feel caution from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the flowers", "response": "(first dropping the bundle of aromatic leaves)\nYou quite like the flowers where they are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The flat river valley here isn't as wet as the marsh further south, and has bloomed into an astonishing wildflower meadow. The flowers are all strange and alien, of course, but the air is fragrant and peaceful. The only sound is the gentle noise of the river to the east. Off to the west the ground begins to rise up to meet the canyon wall, while forests dominate the north.\n\nYou can see a bundle of aromatic leaves here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Part of the canyon wall has fallen here, forming a huge bank of sandy rubble. This looks like it used to be part of the rabbit warren you can see to the south, but this section has been abandoned. Part of the mound has begun to be colonised by the woods that extend to the north. You can see the river in the distance down to the east.\n\nThe bank doesn't look very stable and is full of partially collapsed burrows.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou sense peacefulness changing to caution from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A massive slab of rock has fallen into the woods from the canyon walls to the west. It is halfway sunk into the turf and looks almost sculpted. The canyon wall looms over you from the west. The woodlands parallel it, running north-south, although the canyon steepens to the north. Water glints between the trees to the east.\n\nThe huge boulder towers over the surrounding trees.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the Boulder", "response": "You jump and scrabble, but are unable to get a purchase on the boulder.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of annoyance from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The trees here are stunted and wiry, and the steeply sloping ground is showing its rocky bones through the thin grass. The canyon is spread out below you: the lake to your east, the woodland covering the lower slopes, and the green dome of the Mother Tree far to the south, now shrunken by distance. The canyon ends not far to the north in a tumble of fallen rock.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are perched at the very north-west tip of the canyon, where the slopes disintegrate into a tangle of smashed rock. Wiry, heather-like grass grows between the gaps between the boulders, and there are even a few trees. Below to the east is a maelstrom of white water at the head of the river; to the south, the slope begins to flatten.\n\nTiny multicoloured birds dart back and forth on the cliff face above you.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take birds", "response": "They're far too far above you.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of annoyance from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the grass", "response": "You quite like the grass where it is.\n\nYou sense annoyance changing to irritation from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rocks", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The trees here are stunted and wiry, and the steeply sloping ground is showing its rocky bones through the thin grass. The canyon is spread out below you: the lake to your east, the woodland covering the lower slopes, and the green dome of the Mother Tree far to the south, now shrunken by distance. The canyon ends not far to the north in a tumble of fallen rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A massive slab of rock has fallen into the woods from the canyon walls to the west. It is halfway sunk into the turf and looks almost sculpted. The canyon wall looms over you from the west. The woodlands parallel it, running north-south, although the canyon steepens to the north. Water glints between the trees to the east.\n\nThe huge boulder towers over the surrounding trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The ground rises to meet the canyon wall to the west here, and small trees are scattered across the slope. There is very little undergrowth, lending the woods an airy, garden-like feel. The trees get denser to the north and east, but space opens out to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You were wrong: the view is terrible from here. Outside the canyon there is just barren, sandy wasteland, with the occasional scrubby plant, stretching away in all directions. There are mountains on the horizon, but there's no way you could survive out here long enough to reach them. Down to the east the oasis of the canyon is mostly hidden behind the terrain. There is a rise to the south, near where the land stops.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.\n\nYou can feel contentment from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bones", "response": "They're old and bleached the sun, and look well-gnawed. There's quite a lot of them.\n\nYou sense contentment changing to irritation from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The river pours out of an aperture in the northern wall of the canyon and tumbles down through a snarl of fallen rock before flowing into the lake, to the south. The noise of rushing water is everywhere. The eastern shore is a sheer rockface, but the western shore is a rocky slope that rises to meet the canyon wall in the distance. Some trees hug the edge of the water.\n\nWater pours around, through, and over the massive pile of boulders. There are nooks and crannies and vortices everywhere.\n\nThe water swirling in one large rock pool in particular catches your eye.\n\nAs you approach the deer gallop off to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pool", "response": "Water's pouring into it, but there doesn't seem to be any exit. There's a raw-looking scar on the north side where the ledge used to be, making the sides even steeper and more impassable and you're pretty sure that foxes can't swim.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of annoyance from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "There's no ledge there any more. If you really wanted to you could jump in, of course.\n\nYou sense annoyance changing to irritation from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The lake nestles under the cliffs at the edge of the canyon, so that the east side is a sheer wall rising out of the water; but here on the west side the ground slopes gradually so there is a wide shore of pebbles and rough sand. Mats of grassy plants form little green islands here and there, some under the water. Beyond the beach, unkempt woodland rises up the west side of the canyon, while far to the north, at the head of the canyon, there is a distant skein of falling water as the river tumbles down the cliff into the lake.\n\nScattered along the waterfront are some splintered fish bones.\n\nYou can feel contentment from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "A haphazard but substantial dam has been built across the river out of logs and fallen trees. Water pours through the many little gaps to form a delta of pools and runnels, before joining back together into the main flow of the river, which disappears into the woods to the south. Upstream of the dam to the north there is a substantial lake, but everywhere else, all you can see are trees. The river looks crossable, to reach the east side of the canyon.\n\nThe grisly remains of the dead beavers are scattered among the rocks.\n\nSome fish flap about in the pools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nYou can also see four bundles of aromatic leaves here.\n\nThe lemur gives you a suspicious look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Nestled in the south-east corner of the canyon, the terrain here sweeps up from the river to a low pass through the canyon wall to the east. Through the dense trees you can just make out the green dome of the Mother Tree far below to the south-west.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can also see a dead fish here.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "It's too much of a drop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The desert abruptly drops away on two sides here: to the west you can see the green dome of the Mother Tree a few hundred metres below, and to the south the incomparably vaster drop down to the sea of clouds below. The cliff continues east as far as the eye can see. The wreck of the Semiquaver is poised at the edge.\n\nThe shuttle's main hatch is tightly closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Nestled in the south-east corner of the canyon, the terrain here sweeps up from the river to a low pass through the canyon wall to the east. Through the dense trees you can just make out the green dome of the Mother Tree far below to the south-west.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can also see a dead fish here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fish", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The ground here is steep and rocky, but still covered with scrawny trees. The canyon wall rises precipitously to the east; there's a band of wet rock, and water oozes out and forms in a little pool before trickling down the slope to the river which you can just make out to the west. All you can see to the north and south are more trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nYou can also see four bundles of aromatic leaves here.\n\nYou can feel peacefulness from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The woodland here is quite unlike the west side of the canyon. The trees are short and gnarled and look quite unhealthy: they are also very close together and visibilty through the tangled branches is poor. Despite the gloom, the undergrowth is thick, with ferns, tall grasses, and less identifiable plants filling the space between the tree trunks. The forest sweeps east up to the rock face above and south as far as you can see through the trees.\n\nBushes of the thorny aromatic plant grow profusely.\n\nThe lemur is sitting in one of the thorny bushes.\n\nThe lemur scratches itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the fish at the lemur", "response": "You lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the leaves", "response": "(the aromatic bush)\n(first dropping the dead fish)\nYou gingerly take a mouthful of leaves, avoiding the thorns.\n\nThe lemur languidly picks up a some small insect of some kind, stares at it for a while, and then pulls the legs off before throwing it away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the leaves at the lemur", "response": "(the bundle of aromatic leaves at the lemur)\nYou lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.\n\nThe lemur seems to find something very interesting under one armpit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "You scratch about a bit, but you're not really built for digging.\n\nThe lemur bounces out of the bush, shoots up a tree and leaps through the branches to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou sense a new feeling of peacefulness from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter bush", "response": "That's not something you can enter.\n\nThere's a loud rustling of leaves as the lemur swings up from the south, runs down a tree and dives into the spiky bush.\n\nYou sense peacefulness fading from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the bush", "response": "That wouldn't achieve much.\n\nThe lemur just stares into space for a while.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "fairies", "fairy", "IF Comp 2010", "IFComp Game", "male protagonist", "miniature protagonist", "parser", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 18, 11, 3, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You hadn't counted on running into a thief that morning. To be fair, he probably wasn't expecting you either. You were outside minding your own business, working to mend a portion of the fence that surrounds your family's shack, when you spotted a dark figure tearing through the fields. Startled by the unusual sight, you couldn't help but call out:\n\n\"HEY!\"\nThe thief looked up in your direction, his dusky hood slipping back momentarily, and you were able to make out the curve of an impish smile. His pace did not slow, however. As he continued to approach, apparently headed for the dirt path behind you, you noticed a curious bulge at his side. Something about it just wasn't right. And that's partly why you did what you did.\n\nA millisecond before the caped sprinter was upon you, you stuck out your small green foot.\n\nAs tiny a foot as it was (and is), it did the trick. The thief went sprawling through the air, sending his bounty bouncing off behind him. He hit the ground with a thud, yelping out a curse in a language you'd never heard before... Trollish, perhaps. He quickly got to his feet and frantically looked about for the item he'd dropped. By that time, your father, signaled by the commotion, had already hobbled out with his cane, and your mother was anxiously peering out the window.\nRealizing his growing audience, the shadowy figure cast one more glance around, uttered one more curse, and then tore off again. You were still standing there with your mouth gaping open as he disappeared from view. And the oddest thing... was that the faint sound of laughter in the distance?\n\n\"Just what is this?!\" Your attention snapped back to the scene at hand. Your father, with quite a bit of effort, was rolling a large, egg-shaped gem out of a tall patch of grass. It looked like nothing you'd ever seen before. It was, in fact, the most beautiful thing you'd ever seen. The jewel glittered beneath a thin layer of dust, casting prisms of light in every direction.\n\n\"Can we keep it?\" you finally managed, glancing up at your equally enthralled father. He studied the jewel for a moment more, tilting it this way and that.\n\n\"Aha! Look!\" He pointed to one edge. You could just make out the delicate, silvery script:\n\n\"PROPERTY OF THE FAIRY PRINCE\".\n\n\"Oh, Mite, we're going to have to return this to him before the whole village gets in a tizzy!\"\n\nAnd that's just how this whole journey began.\n\n\n\nType ABOUT or HINT for more information.\n\nYou've never been to this region of the Great Garden before. That's not so surprising, really. The Garden is vast and full of mysteries, and this is your first official trip beyond the cluster of villages that you call home. Though the lands are relatively safe for travel (the Fairy Prince having banished most of the goblins, bogies, and other mischievous creatures to the realm beyond the hedges long ago) the largeness of everything around you makes you feel more than a bit nervous.\n\nYou are currently standing at a fork in the path on which you've been traveling for what's seemed like hours. The hefty gem strapped to your back hasn't helped matters.\n\nYour options are north and east. The road back home is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Mite, a pixy lad with bright green skin and pointy ears.\n\nPrior to this whole undertaking, you hadn't had a whole lot of experience with adventuring or travel. That's part of the reason why your parents were so keen on having you return the jewel yourself.\n\n\"Pixies were meant to explore and have fun, and you're certainly at the right age for that!\" your father had told you. You can't help but think of this as more of a chore, though. Sure, you want to help out the Fairy Prince, and sure, you'll probably return with a bunch of stories with which to regale your friends. But you've never been much for showing off anyway, and more often that not, you just prefer to stretch out in a patch of clover with one of the tomes from your Auntie's modest but serviceable library.\n\nAnd yet here you are.\n\nYou are currently toting a dazzling blue gem on your back in a loose sling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gem", "response": "Even though you've been toting it around for a while now, you are still positively enchanted by the pale blue jewel. If it didn't belong to the Fairy Prince, you'd be tempted to hold on to it forever. The Prince is beloved among your people, however, and you want to do the right thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na sling (being worn)\na jewel", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sling", "response": "Your father fashioned a sling out of some spare cotton to help you transport the gem.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Tall grasses line the path that forks off to the north and east. The road back home is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You continue up the path to the north and find yourself standing in front of an unruly thicket of damask roses. Their scent permeates the air, reminding you of Linnea, the girl you almost worked up the courage to ask to the carnival for the Spring Equinox. She always smells like flowers. You wonder what she's doing right now and end up getting lost in daydreams for a moment. The heft of the jewel you're carrying brings you back to reality soon enough. And the faint sound of crying in the distance.\n\nWhat is that? You are filled with a sense of foreboding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Here the path culminates at a stout lilac bush bursting with its distinctive amethyst flowers. While the flowers are lovely indeed, your attention is drawn to a striking maiden who sits sobbing on a low branch. Her face is partially obscured by her long, lavender locks.\n\nShe must be a nymph, you tell yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine nymph", "response": "The beautiful nymph, dressed in a simple white shift, sits sobbing on one of the lower branches of the lilac bush. Her long, lavender locks partially obscure her face. Next to her you see a small brown basket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the basket", "response": "A small brown basket sits at the nymph's side. It is currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to nymph", "response": "To talk to someone, use ASK ___ ABOUT/FOR ___ or TELL ___ ABOUT ___.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask nymph about the basket", "response": "The nymph is too lost in her grief at the moment to respond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the nymph about crying", "response": "\"My name is Hespa,\" she manages between sobs. \"Today has been terrible! My beloved Bugg wandered off into the brush.\" She points at a small clearing in the the undergrowth to the northwest that had escaped your notice before.\n\n\"I followed after him but he got cornered by a nasty spider,\" she continues. \"I tried to free him but I almost got trapped in its web myself!\" Hespa starts weeping even more loudly than before.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the nymph about Bugg", "response": "\"Bugg is my pet ladybug. I've had him since he was a larva.\" Tears stream down her face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the nymph about the spider", "response": "\"It's a nasty thing... almost a big as I am.\" She stares at you with frightened eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the nymph about Prince", "response": "\"He's a grand fellow. I wish he were here to help me now.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Here the path culminates at a stout lilac bush bursting with its distinctive amethyst flowers. A beautiful nymph sits sobbing on one of its lower branches.\n\nThe path continues back to the south. The small clearing in the brush that Hespa pointed out is to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You find yourself standing in front of an unruly thicket of damask roses. Their scent permeates the air.\n\nYou can hear the faint sound of crying to the north. The path also continues back to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A short trip to the east brings you to a lovely cluster of tulips. The giant, cup-shaped flowers sit atop tall, dark green stalks that stretch to about five times your height. Most of the flowers are a deep pink, but one in particular catches your eye. It stands slightly apart from the rest, with bright orange petals that call to mind the pumpkin that the eccentric apothecary from your village had hollowed out for a home. It has apparently caught the interest of a butterfly as well. The black swallowtail is circling back and forth around the flower, occasionally dipping inside for a sip of nectar.\n\nThe path curves to the northeast here. It also continues back west to the fork.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the butterfly", "response": "The dark wings of the black swallowtail are dotted with yellow at their base. The butterfly is currently circling the orange tulip, occasionally dipping in for a sip of nectar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the butterfly about Prince", "response": "You've never come upon a talking arthropod and this butterfly is no exception. Either that or it's ignoring you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flower", "response": "The bright orange tulip, perched atop its tall, green stem, glows with the light of the sun. A black swallowtail butterfly is currently circling around it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the flower", "response": "You attempt to shimmy up the stalk of the orange tulip but it is much too slippery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "Your stroll to the northeast finds you at the base of the largest dandelion you've ever seen. Tall, lance-like leaves surround its massive stem, which rises up to support a snowy globe of seeds. Beyond the dandelion, to the east, the ground grows marshier and thick with palm sedge.\n\nThe path here runs from southwest to northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dandelion", "response": "The dandelion, having gone to seed, is capped in snowy white. Tall, lance-like leaves surround its massive stem.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the dandelion", "response": "You find that you are able to scale the dandelion stem by grasping onto a leaf with one hand while boosting yourself upward. Once you reach the head of the flower, you pull yourself on top with a bit of effort.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are standing on the sole bare spot of the dandelion cap, amongst its countless downy white seeds. Up here, you are afforded a better view of the captivating orange tulip to the southwest. A black swallowtail butterfly dips into the fiery goblet for a sip of nectar.\n\nYou can also see a calm but murky-looking pond to the east, beyond the palm sedge.\n\nA gentle breeze from the west ruffles you hair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You carefully descend the stem, using the leaves to steady yourself.\n\nYou are at the base of the largest dandelion you've ever seen. Tall, lance-like leaves surround its massive stem, which rises up to support a snowy globe of seeds. Beyond the dandelion, to the east, the ground grows marshier and thick with palm sedge.\n\nThe path here runs from southwest to northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Here the dirt path that you've grown accustomed to is replaced by a cobblestone walk. To the east, a steep, rocky slope leads down to the moss-green water. A thick layer of mist has settled over the pond making it difficult to see to the opposite side... your supposed destination. Your mother used to tell you stories about the palace across the pond. It was not so long ago that the Fairy Prince's home was a popular journey destination for adventurous pixies, but now that the fervor has died down over the prince's ascendancy, the once-hazardous hedges seem to hold more of an attraction for young explorers.\n\nYou are about to continue north on the cobblestone terrace when you catch something out of the corner of your eye. Protruding from the grass on the other side of the walk is a large shell. How could you have missed that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shell", "response": "A large, coiled shell rests in the grasses on the side of the path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the shell", "response": "The opening of the shell is facing the ground, making it impossible to enter.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Here the dirt path that you've grown accustomed to is replaced by a cobblestone walk. To the east, a steep, rocky slope leads down to the moss-green water. A thick layer of mist has settled over the pond making it difficult to see to the opposite side.\n\nIn the grass alongside the cobblestone terrace, you see a large, iridescent shell.\n\nThe dandelion is back to the southwest. The walk also marches on to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You appear to have come to a dead end. The cobblestone walk runs right up to the side of a giant pipe. The steep slope leading down to the water continues to the east.\n\nYou notice a strange, triangular tile embedded amongst the cobblestones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tile", "response": "The triangular white tile is curved at its base, almost shaped like an arrowhead. It seems to point towards the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the tile", "response": "The tile is firmy embedded amongst the cobblestones.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You appear to have come to a dead end. The cobblestone walk runs right up to the side of a giant pipe. The steep slope leading down to the water continues to the east.\n\nA strange, triangular tile is embedded amongst the cobblestones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the tile", "response": "You are unable to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the water", "response": "In spite of the sunny weather, a thick mist has settled on the surface of the pond, rendering it impossible to see across. Its murky, green waters lap against a rocky slope that extends down to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb pipe", "response": "The curved sides of the pipe are too slippery to climb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "You are at the base of the largest dandelion you've ever seen. Tall, lance-like leaves surround its massive stem, which rises up to support a snowy globe of seeds. Beyond the dandelion, to the east, the ground grows marshier and thick with palm sedge.\n\nThe path here runs from southwest to northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Giant, cup-shaped flowers sit atop tall, dark green stalks that stretch to about five times your height. Most of the flowers are a deep pink, aside from one striking orange tulip that sits apart from the rest. A black swallowtail is circling back and forth around it, occasionally dipping in for a sip of nectar.\n\nThe path curves to the northeast here. It also continues back west to the fork.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Tall grasses line the path that forks off to the north and east. The road back home is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You find yourself standing in front of an unruly thicket of damask roses. Their scent permeates the air.\n\nYou can hear the faint sound of crying to the north. The path also continues back to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "You duck into the small clearing....\n\nYou immediately feel claustrophobic in this tiny glade. It doesn't help that you are sharing the space with a giant spider. Just as Hespa described, the fearsome arachnid is busy at work, wrapping the still-struggling Bugg in a silky cocoon. Suddenly aware of your presence, the spider fixes its bulbous black eyes on you and hisses.\n\nWhat have I gotten myself into? you wonder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spider", "response": "The giant spider is covered in velvety, chestnut-brown fur but it hardly seems cuddly. Every so often, it pauses in its spinning to stare back at you with its inky black eyes. Perhaps it's considering what to have for dessert.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Bugg", "response": "You can barely see the poor creature. He is almost entirely covered in silk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na sling (being worn)\na jewel", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the leaf", "response": "The lance-shaped leaves are long, with jagged edges. They cleave closely to the stem of the dandelion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the leaf", "response": "The leaves are firmly attached to the dandelion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow", "response": "What do you want to blow?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jewel", "response": "The pale blue jewel glitters in the sunlight. At its base, you can make out the delicate, silvery script that reads \"PROPERTY OF THE FAIRY PRINCE\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You scale the dandelion stem and pull yourself up onto the head...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are standing on the sole bare spot of the dandelion cap, amongst its countless downy white seeds. Up here, you are afforded a better view of the captivating orange tulip to the southwest. A black swallowtail butterfly dips into the fiery goblet for a sip of nectar.\n\nYou can also see a calm but murky-looking pond to the east, beyond the palm sedge.\n\nA competing northeasterly wind picks up, setting some of the dandelion seeds adrift.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the seeds", "response": "Their soft, propeller-like tops are nearly even with your head.\n\nThe northeasterly wind caresses your shoulders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the seed", "response": "You pull one of the seeds from the dandelion clock and hold it up like an umbrella.\n\nThe wind dies down for a moment and then is replaced by a balmy zephyr pressing you southwest.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are standing on the sole bare spot of the dandelion cap, amongst its countless downy white seeds. Up here, you are afforded a better view of the captivating orange tulip to the southwest. A black swallowtail butterfly dips into the fiery goblet for a sip of nectar.\n\nYou can also see a calm but murky-looking pond to the east, beyond the palm sedge.\n\nThe wind blows southwest, agitating the seeds around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump up with the seed extended in your arm. Its parachute top catches in the breeze and you are swept into the air.\n\nI'm flying!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The southwestern zephyr sends you coasting towards the tulips. A shiver of excitement runs through you as you zip past the pink flowers. A fortuitous undercurrent of wind jolts you upward right before you slam face first into the tall orange tulip. You release the seed just as you are arcing over its open petals...\n\nand land in it with a PLOP.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You find yourself coughing uncontrollably. Your abrupt landing must've knocked all of the pollen loose in the flower-- you're practically swimming in it. You're still hacking when you realize that the black swallowtail is peering in at you, its antennae twitching. It huffs indignantly, apparently unhappy to find an uninvited guest at its favorite snack spot.\n\n\"Sorry--,\" you start to say, but with one flap of its wings, the butterfly is gone. You stand up and brush the rest of the pollen off of you, careful to avoid stray droplets of nectar.\n\nFinally you are able to take in your surroundings. The amber petals of the tulip form a protective parapet around you as you gaze out at the garden. Unfortunately, you discover that the view isn't that much better than the one provided by the dandelion. The heavy mist prevents you from seeing beyond the pond and a tall rosebush blocks the view on the other side.\n\nCrud! Still, you can't help but feel a strange sense of accomplishment over making it to the top of the flower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Mite, a pixy lad with bright green skin and pointy ears.\n\nYou are currently toting a dazzling blue gem on your back in a loose sling.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "The amber petals of the tulip form a protective parapet around you as you gaze out at the garden. The pond to the east is covered in a dense mist. The view from the other side of the tulip is dominated by an overgrown rosebush.\n\nThe bottom of the tulip is full of pollen. The tulip's stem offers a possible way down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pollen", "response": "The powdery pollen slips through your fingers.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You carefully climb out of the tulip and slide down the stem...\n\nGiant, cup-shaped flowers sit atop tall, dark green stalks that stretch to about five times your height. Most of the flowers are a deep pink, aside from one striking orange tulip that sits apart from the rest.\n\nThe path curves to the northeast here. It also continues back west to the fork.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You are at the base of the largest dandelion you've ever seen. Tall, lance-like leaves surround its massive stem, which rises up to support a snowy globe of seeds. Beyond the dandelion, to the east, the ground grows marshier and thick with palm sedge.\n\nThe path here runs from southwest to northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You scale the dandelion stem and pull yourself up onto the head...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are standing on the sole bare spot of the dandelion cap, amongst its countless downy white seeds. Up here, you are afforded a better view of the captivating orange tulip to the southwest. You can also see a calm but murky-looking pond to the east, beyond the palm sedge.\n\nThe zephyr subsides and is replaced by a gentle easterly breeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the seed", "response": "You pull one of the seeds from the dandelion clock and hold it up like an umbrella.\n\nA gentle breeze from the west ruffles you hair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA competing northeasterly wind picks up, setting some of the dandelion seeds adrift.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe northeasterly wind caresses your shoulders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe wind dies down for a moment and then is replaced by a balmy zephyr pressing you southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe wind blows southwest, agitating the seeds around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe zephyr subsides and is replaced by a gentle easterly breeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump up with the seed extended in your arm. Its parachute top catches in the breeze and you are swept into the air.\n\nThe easterly breeze sends you spinning wildly toward the sedges and the water beyond it. You let go just in time...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "WHOMP!\n\nThe sedges close in around you like a jungle. You can see the dandelion through a mass of leaves to the west.\n\nThat was a close one!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "The sedges close in around you like a jungle. You can see the dandelion through a mass of leaves to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sedge", "response": "The sedges surround you in every direction. You can see the dandelion through a mass of leaves to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sedge", "response": "You have miraculously avoided getting mud all over yourself up to this point and you'd like to keep it that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You push west, through the leaves...\n\nYou are at the base of the largest dandelion you've ever seen. Tall, lance-like leaves surround its massive stem, which rises up to support a snowy globe of seeds. Beyond the dandelion, to the east, the ground grows marshier and thick with palm sedge.\n\nThe path here runs from southwest to northeast.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look in shell", "response": "The opening to the shell is facing the ground, making it impossible to look inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the shell", "response": "You rap loudly on the shell as you would someone's front door... and wait. Before long a deep groaning sound resonates within the shell and you jump back, startled. The iridescent conch rises into the air as the slick, brown body of a snail emerges. Once he is fully extended, he turns his eyestalks to you.\n\n\"What is all this racket about?!\" His voice, which issues from a tiny mouth hole framed by long white whiskers, is high and raspy. \"I was trying to read my paper!\"\n\n\"I-I'm sorry, Mr. Snail,\" you begin. \"I'm just trying to find my way around.\"\n\n\"My name's Snoll. And what is it that you need to know?\" He seems like quite an impatient fellow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Snoll about the paper", "response": "\"What do you like to read?\" you ask the snail\n\n\"The paper... I'd like to be reading it now, as a matter of fact.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Snoll about Prince", "response": "You ask Snoll his opinion of the Fairy Prince.\n\n\"I'm no big fan of magic, but he's definitely helped improve things around here, so I can't complain too much.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Here the dirt path that you've grown accustomed to is replaced by a cobblestone walk. To the east, a steep, rocky slope leads down to the moss-green water. A thick layer of mist has settled over the pond making it difficult to see to the opposite side.\n\nThe dandelion is back to the southwest. The walk also marches on to the north.\n\nSnoll glares at you impatiently from his spot in the grass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Snoll about mist", "response": "\"Is there any way across the pond?\" you ask.\n\n\"As a matter of fact,\" the snail leans in conspiratorially, \"there is. I've seen the Fairy Prince's courier cross many a time. If you travel a bit north, you'll see a funny-shaped tile by the water. It marks the beginning of the bridge.\"\n\n\"The... bridge?\"\n\n\"Yes -- The only thing is, you can't see it! He used his crazy fairy magic to turn it invisible!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Snoll about the bridge", "response": "\"Like I said, there's a bridge across the pond. You can't see it, but trust me, it's there. If you travel a bit north, you'll find a funny-shaped rock by the water. It marks the beginning of the bridge.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You appear to have come to a dead end. The cobblestone walk runs right up to the side of a giant pipe. The steep slope leading down to the water continues to the east.\n\nA strange, triangular tile is embedded amongst the cobblestones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bridge", "response": "You look out over the water for some evidence of a bridge but find nothing. No-- wait. Is that a patch of dirt hovering in midair? Indeed, it looks like a fine powdering of dust has settled on a small section of the bridge a few feet out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "You take a deep breath and, starting from the triangular tile, step out over the slope. In spite of what the snail told you, you are startled when your foot meets the solid surface of the bridge. Tentatively, you press forward. When you are finally standing directly over the pond, you lose your bearings, however. The disconnect between what you see and what you feel causes you to lose your balance. You teeter back and forth, dangerously, and with no handrail to catch you, you nearly fall into the water. Slowly, you are able to make your way back to the shore.\n\nThere's got to be a way for me to get across this bridge, you tell yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Here the dirt path that you've grown accustomed to is replaced by a cobblestone walk. To the east, a steep, rocky slope leads down to the moss-green water. A thick layer of mist has settled over the pond making it difficult to see to the opposite side.\n\nIn the grass alongside the cobblestone terrace, you see Snoll's shell. He must've retreated back inside.\n\nThe dandelion is to the southwest. The walk also marches on to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "Giant, cup-shaped flowers sit atop tall, dark green stalks that stretch to about five times your height. Most of the flowers are a deep pink, aside from one striking orange tulip that sits apart from the rest.\n\nThe path curves to the northeast here. It also continues back west to the fork.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Tall grasses line the path that forks off to the north and east. The road back home is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "You duck into the small clearing....\n\nThe brush presses in around you from every direction. You feel quite claustrophobic here. It doesn't help that you are sharing the space with a giant spider. The vile creature is busy at work, wrapping the increasingly lethargic Bugg in its silky cocoon.\n\nThe path back to the lilac bush is southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask spider about Bugg", "response": "The spider answers you with a hiss.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the gem at the spider", "response": "(first taking the jewel)\nYou'd prefer to hold on to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill the spider", "response": "As things look more and more dire for poor Bugg, you feel a surge of desperation. In a moment of sheer insanity, you ball up your bare fist and punch the spider in the back. It whirls around furiously and snaps out at you with its fangs. You are able to escape just in time. You doubt you will be able to get away with that again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill the spider", "response": "Foolishly emboldened by your previous attack, you strike out at the spider again, unarmed. This time you are not so lucky. In an instant, the spider is upon you, sinking its fangs into your chest. Once you are effectively paralyzed, it drags you over to its web and begins to swathe you in your own silken shroud. What an unfortunate way to end your first adventure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb rose", "response": "The prickly tangle is less than inviting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine rose", "response": "The dense shrubbery, capped with fat pink roses, branches out high overhead. The blooms are captivating but their thorny stems make them seem more than a little forbidding.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the thorn", "response": "You reach out and yank on the dried thorn. It snaps off into your hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na thorn\na sling (being worn)\na jewel", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the thorn", "response": "The base of the thorn fits neatly into your palm. You wave it in front of you with a quick stroke and find that it makes a handly little short sword.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill the spider with the thorn", "response": "You know that every living thing has to eat, but the idea of the nymph's dear pet being consumed by such a vile creature makes your heart hurt.\n\nThorn in hand, you take a swipe at the spider... and miss. It spits at you angrily and then turns its attention back to Bugg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill the spider with thorn", "response": "Your first attempt didn't work but you are not ready to give up. You swing your makeshift sword forward again with as much force as you can muster. It plunges deep into the spider's belly. The brute squawks in pain and you jump back, leaving the thorn embedded in its body. Its legs spasm wildly and then it finally falls to the ground, still.\n\nYour heart is pounding so hard it feels like it might leap out of your chest. You've had to kill different creatures before (smaller, of course) but it was never anything like this. You feel like a warrior, victorious after battle. You draw the thorn out of the spider's body and wipe it off on some nearby grass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the spider how you like yourself now", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The brush presses in around you from every direction. You see Bugg still struggling in the spider's web.\n\nThe path back to the lilac bush is southeast.\n\nYou can see a dead spider here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spider", "response": "The spider's crumpled body rests in the corner of the small clearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Bugg", "response": "The spider may be dead, but poor Bugg is still writhing around in the food sac.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the silk", "response": "You try to free Bugg with your bare hands but they get caught in the viscid outer weave of the food sac. With a determined tug, you are able to free yourself, but your palms sting from the effort.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the silk with thorn", "response": "Using the thorn, you delicately cut into the silk cocoon. Once the hole you've created is large enough, Bugg is able to crawl out, although with great effort. It takes a short while for the exhausted ladybug to recover his strength. After flapping his wings and stretching his legs, however, he's almost as good as new. He nuzzles you appreciatively and then makes his way back to his distressed owner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You emerge from the clearing feeling positively exhilarated. You see that Bugg has already made his way back to his elated mistress. He is nestling cozily in her lap as she checks him for injuries. When she notices your return, she offers you a beatific smile.\n\n\"I am forever indebted to you,\" she says. \"I thought I would never get him back again.\"\n\n\"I'm glad to have helped,\" you reply. But she's not finished. She reaches over to her basket and pulls out something made of purple fabric.\n\n\"Here... it's not much but perhaps you will find is useful. On less exciting days, I spend a lot of time knitting, and I have tons of these.\" She hands you what turns out to be a small purple sack, closely knit out of lilac petal fibers.\n\n\"Thanks!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na pouch\na thorn\na sling (being worn)\na jewel", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Here the path culminates at a stout lilac bush bursting with its distinctive amethyst flowers. Hespa sits on one of its lower branches, with Bugg in her lap and her basket at her side.\n\nThe path continues back to the south. There is a small clearing in the brush to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You find yourself standing in front of an unruly thicket of damask roses. Their scent permeates the air.\n\nThe path stretches on to the north and south.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You are standing on the sole bare spot of the dandelion cap, amongst its countless downy white seeds. Up here, you are afforded a better view of the captivating orange tulip to the southwest. You can also see a calm but murky-looking pond to the east, beyond the palm sedge.\n\nA gentle breeze from the west ruffles you hair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the seed", "response": "You pull one of the seeds from the dandelion clock and hold it up like an umbrella.\n\nA competing northeasterly wind picks up, setting some of the dandelion seeds adrift.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump up with the seed extended in your arm. Its parachute top catches in the breeze and you are swept into the air.\nThe rough wind buffets you northeast. The tulips, the grasses, the pond-- all of them blur together as you soar through the air. Eventually gravity takes its course and you slowly descend, bracing your legs for impact.\n\nYour trip wasn't as far as it might have seemed.\nOn the Shore of the Pond\nHere the dirt path that you've grown accustomed to is replaced by a cobblestone walk. To the east, a steep, rocky slope leads down to the moss-green water. A thick layer of mist has settled over the pond making it difficult to see to the opposite side.\n\nIn the grass alongside the cobblestone terrace, you see Snoll's shell. He must've retreated back inside.\n\nThe dandelion is to the southwest. The walk also marches on to the north.\n\nYou let go of the dandelion seed and watch as it floats away in the breeze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the dandelion", "response": "You scale the dandelion stem and pull yourself up onto the head...\nOn Top of the Dandelion\nYou are standing on the sole bare spot of the dandelion cap, amongst its countless downy white seeds. Up here, you are afforded a better view of the captivating orange tulip to the southwest. You can also see a calm but murky-looking pond to the east, beyond the palm sedge.\n\nThe northeasterly wind caresses your shoulders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the seed", "response": "You pull one of the seeds from the dandelion clock and hold it up like an umbrella.\n\nThe wind dies down for a moment and then is replaced by a balmy zephyr pressing you southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump up with the seed extended in your arm. Its parachute top catches in the breeze and you are swept into the air.\nThe southwestern zephyr sends you coasting toward the tulips. That same undercurrent of wind jolts you upward right before you slam face first into the tall orange tulip. You release the seed just as you are arcing over its open petals... and land in it with a PLOP.\n\nThe amber petals of the tulip form a protective parapet around you as you gaze out at the garden. The pond to the east is covered in a dense mist. The view from the other side of the tulip is dominated by an overgrown rosebush.\n\nThe bottom of the tulip is full of pollen. The tulip's stem offers a possible way down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pollen", "response": "You fill up the pouch, which turns out to have quite a bit of give, with as much pollen as you can find.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pouch", "response": "The small sack is made of closely-knit purple fibers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pollen", "response": "The golden grains are powdery yet somewhat sticky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You carefully climb out of the tulip and slide down the stem...\n\nGiant, cup-shaped flowers sit atop tall, dark green stalks that stretch to about five times your height. Most of the flowers are a deep pink, aside from one striking orange tulip that sits apart from the rest.\n\nThe path curves to the northeast here. It also continues back west to the fork.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You are too afraid of losing your balance over the water to venture onto the bridge. If only there were some way to see where you were going...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pollen on the bridge", "response": "The floating patch of dust gives you an idea. You grab a handful of pollen from the pouch and, starting from the triangular tile, sprinkle it over the bridge. The slightly sticky granules of pollen adhere to the surface, providing you with a clear path east. Little by little, you make your way in that direction, trying to avoid looking down into the murky green water. The mist becomes thicker at the center of the pond, but you are able to work your way through. Before you know it, you find yourself on the other side.\n\nThe bridge has deposited you on a sandy little beach surrounded by cattails. You look back and see your pollen trail hanging suspended over the water.\n\nUnbelievable! And your friends back home probably really won't believe it... they'll think you daydreamed it or read it in a book somewhere.\n\nBut this is better than a book! you tell yourself. For the first time on your adventure, you realize that you are actually having fun. You don't know why you were so unenthusiastic starting out. Maybe you were afraid of finding out that the magical world of the Great Garden wasn't so magical after all. An odd sense of relief washes over you and there is now a buoyancy in your step. You barely notice the heft of the jewel on your back anymore.\n\nYou give your new surroundings another glance and observe a gap in the cattails to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cattails", "response": "A dense colony of cattails lines the shore. Their heavy brown heads nod atop pithy stems.\n\nA gap between them provides passage to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You ascend the sandy hill to the east, passing between the cattails. Just as you are crossing the threshold into this new territory, your foot catches on a fallen cattail and you trip. You are momentarily airborne as you tumble forward, and when you finally hit the ground, you are nearly jolted out of your senses. It takes you a few seconds to collect yourself, and you finally notice that the jewel has fallen out of the sling. You check the immediate area, but it is nowhere to be found. Slowly you take in the new scenery and a feeling of dread fills your heart. A malicious snicker punctuates the silence.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "A tall, crimson-capped mushroom stands at a curve in the grass-lined path, providing the surrounding greenery with a bit of shade. On top of it, two chubby caterpillars are taking a nap, apparently sated after an afternoon fungi feast. Next to the lofty shroom, its shorter, squatter twin sits tipped over. Chomp-marks on the base indicate exactly how it was felled.\n\nThe path continues up a steep incline to the east. It also curves back to the gnome statue, to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mushroom", "response": "Which do you mean, the tall mushroom or the squat mushroom?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the squat mushroom", "response": "The squat mushroom is tipped on its side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tall mushroom", "response": "Two chubby caterpillars are taking a nap on top of the lofty mushroom, which stretches slightly overhead. You can see bite marks in its crimson cap where the creatures have feasted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the caterpillars", "response": "Two chubby black caterpillars are curled up on top of the tall mushroom. They are sleeping soundly after their afternoon fungi feast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na pouch\na thorn\na sling (being worn and empty)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look in the pouch", "response": "The pouch is empty.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A tall, crimson-capped mushroom stands at a curve in the grass-lined path, providing the surrounding greenery with a bit of shade. On top of it, two chubby caterpillars are taking a nap, apparently sated after an afternoon fungi feast. Next to the lofty shroom, its shorter, squatter twin sits tipped over. Chomp-marks on the base indicate exactly how it was felled.\n\nThe path continues up a steep incline to the east. It also curves back to the gnome statue, to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake the caterpillars", "response": "You doubt that the caterpillars have any helpful advice to offer so you decide to let them continue sleeping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "You climb the hill to the east...\n\nThe palace-- at long last! Though your parents had described it to you, you still were not prepared for this. The famed Gazing Ball Palace sits atop a tall marble tower, countless stories high. The opalescent sphere shimmers in the sunlight, beckoning you forward.\n\nAt the base of the marble tower, you see a great arched door, in front of which stands a somber-looking chipmunk. She's armored in shining silver and holds a spear at her side. The chipmunk stares at you warily as you approach.\n\n\"State your business, citizen.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the chipmunk about the jewel", "response": "You tell the chipmunk how you came upon the missing jewel. Her interest is piqued only slightly.\n\n\"Where is this jewel?\" she asks. You sigh deeply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the chipmunk about the goblin", "response": "\"A goblin has stolen a jewel belonging to the Fairy Prince!\" you tell the guard. She eyes you for a moment.\n\n\"I cannot leave my post,\" she says, finally. \"If what you say is true, you should do what you can to retrieve it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask chipmunk for the spear", "response": "You doubt the chipmunk guard will respond well to being ordered around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chipmunk", "response": "A striped brown chipmunk stands guard at the palace door. She wears a vest of silver armor and a somber expression. At her side, you see a long, sharp spear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the chipmunk about the goblin", "response": "\"Troublesome creatures... and smelly.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sphere", "response": "The famed Gazing Ball Palace sits atop a tall marble tower, countless stories high. The opalescent sphere shimmers in the sunlight, beckoning you forward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "North", "response": "This wide clearing is dominated by a giant gnome statue. A goblin is perched on its shoulder, clinging to the jewel that inspired this whole journey.\n\nThe dirt path picks up here, stretching south. To the west, beyond the fallen cattail, you see the opening leading back to the beach.\n\nHolding the gem under one arm, the goblin leans over and pretends to pick the gnome's nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the goblin", "response": "The hideous goblin is bald, with sagging gray skin and sharp black nails and teeth. It is currently having a great deal of fun taunting you with the jewel.\n\nThe ugly monster pantomimes crying. Then he points at you and laughs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na pouch\na thorn\na sling (being worn and empty)\n\nThe rotten fiend finds a small pebble and chucks it at you. It bounces harmlessly into the cattails.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the sling", "response": "You'd prefer to keep it on.\n\nThe hideous creature chuckles maliciously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the thorn at the goblin", "response": "You toss the makeshift sword at the goblin but your aim is off. The thorn goes flying into the cattails.\n\nGreat. Just great.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "You carefully step over the fallen cattail...\n\nYou are on a sandy little beach surrounded by cattails. To the west, your pollen trail hangs suspended over the water, defining the path of the invisible bridge. A gap in the cattails allows passage to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "You ascend the sandy hill to the east, passing between the cattails.\n\nThis wide clearing is dominated by a giant gnome statue. A goblin is perched on its shoulder, clinging to the jewel that inspired this whole journey.\n\nThe dirt path picks up here, stretching south. To the west, beyond the fallen cattail, you see the opening leading back to the beach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cattail", "response": "The cattail is entirely too heavy for that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "South", "response": "A tall, crimson-capped mushroom stands at a curve in the grass-lined path, providing the surrounding greenery with a bit of shade. On top of it, two chubby caterpillars are taking a nap, apparently sated after an afternoon fungi feast. Next to the lofty shroom, its shorter, squatter twin sits tipped over. Chomp-marks on the base indicate exactly how it was felled.\n\nThe path continues up a steep incline to the east. It also curves back to the gnome statue, to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the squat mushroom", "response": "You tilt the mushroom back onto its base. It's a little wobbly but can stand without falling over. You wrap your arms around the fungus in an attempt to lift it, but find that it is too unwieldy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "A tall, crimson-capped mushroom stands at a curve in the grass-lined path, providing the surrounding greenery with a bit of shade. On top of it, two chubby caterpillars are taking a nap, apparently sated after an afternoon fungi feast. Next to the lofty shroom, sits its shorter, squatter twin.\n\nThe path continues up a steep incline to the east. It also curves back to the gnome statue, to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the squat mushroom", "response": "You climb onto the squat mushroom. Its cap is springy beneath your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the mushroom. Its springy cap propels you high in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get off the mushroom", "response": "Which do you mean, the tall mushroom or the squat mushroom?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Short", "response": "You get off the squat mushroom.\n\nA tall, crimson-capped mushroom stands at a curve in the grass-lined path, providing the surrounding greenery with a bit of shade. On top of it, two chubby caterpillars are taking a nap, apparently sated after an afternoon fungi feast. Next to the lofty shroom, sits its shorter, squatter twin.\n\nThe path continues up a steep incline to the east. It also curves back to the gnome statue, to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You've had enough of this contemptible monster. You jump on the mushroom's springy cap and are launched high in the air. When you are even with the creature, you strike out with your small green fist. That's all it takes. The cowardly goblin shrieks with frightened rage. He drops the jewel and makes off into the cattails, which rustle violently in his wake.\n\nYou climb down from the mushroom and retrieve the jewel, inspecting it carefully for any scratches. Its sparkling facets are no worse for the wear. Your spirits soar again. You feel as though nothing can stand in your way now.\n\nYou head south, ready to finally present the Fairy Prince with his lost treasure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "A tall, crimson-capped mushroom stands at a curve in the grass-lined path, providing the surrounding greenery with a bit of shade. On top of it, two chubby caterpillars are taking a nap, apparently sated after an afternoon fungi feast.\n\nThe path continues up a steep incline to the east. It also curves back to the gnome statue, to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na pouch\na sling (being worn)\na jewel", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "South", "response": "You are immediately enveloped by the tall fescue. Fearful of losing your way in this green jungle, you quickly return to the path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "You climb the hill to the east...\n\nThough your parents had described it to you, you still were not prepared for this. The famed Gazing Ball Palace sits atop a tall marble tower, countless stories high. The opalescent sphere shimmers in the sunlight, beckoning you forward.\n\nAt the base of the marble tower, you see a great arched door, in front of which stands a somber-looking chipmunk. She's armored in shining silver and holds a spear at her side.\n\nThe path wends its way back to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the chipmunk about the jewel", "response": "You take the jewel in your arms one more time, enjoying the reassuring weight of it. Finally, you present it to the chipmunk guard.\n\n\"I believe this belongs to the Fairy Prince.\" The chipmunk leans forward and inspects the egg-shaped gem, taking notice of the inscription. She puffs her cheeks thoughtfully.\n\n\"I see.\" Suddenly she is all action. She opens the door and steps aside, allowing you entry into the palace. It takes a moment for your eyes to adjust to the dim lighting of the surprisingly modest anteroom. The chipmunk makes no haste in leading you to a narrow set of stairs. You return the jewel to the sling and begin your ascent. Up, up, up you go. You climb so many steps, it seems like you're heading for the clouds. Just when you feel like you cannot go on, you arrive at a small landing with a simple wooden door. The chipmunk, who has been following quietly behind you the whole time, reaches over and twists the knob.\n\n\"Here we are then...\" She ushers you forward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You find yourself in the throne room of the palace. The giant translucent dome casts rainbows across every surface. The throne sits empty. The Fairy Prince has instead opted to sit on a bench near the glass, where he can look out over the garden. He smiles up at you as you approach.\n\n\"Ah, I've been waiting for you!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Prince", "response": "The Fairy Prince sits on a bench near the dome wall, his pale green wings folded behind him. He smiles at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Prince about the jewel", "response": "The prince listens with great interest as you tell him about your adventure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jewel to Prince", "response": "(first taking the jewel)\nWithout much ado, you hand over the jewel.\n\n\"Thanks!\" he says brightly. He startles you by tossing it into the air where it transforms into small white pebble, which he then catches in his hand and shoves in his pocket. He offers an impish laugh... and suddenly things come together.\n\n\"It was you!\"\n\n\"I have to admit it was.\"\n\n\"But why?\" The Prince pauses for a moment.\n\n\"I have been trying to keep things safe and green here for a long while... but it's been getting harder and harder. There is a darkness pressing in.\" He motions out the window to a spot far on the horizon. You can see it. It is far away but it is there... It fills you with dread.\n\n\"The people have become complacent. Things have been going well for so long that they are becoming more and more careless. I need help to keep them safe from the outside. That's why I set up this test.\" It all makes sense now. But you're not exactly sure what he is asking of you. Finally, he spells it out:\n\n\"I need the help of good folks like you, who are brave and kind hearted, to help me guard the people against the coming darkness. But it's entirely up to you. There's not much time to waste though. Are you up for it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "You think long and hard. Earlier today, you would've run as fast as you could in the opposite direction. But you feel like an entirely different pixy. You provide him with your answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the jewel", "response": "(to Fairy Prince)\n(first taking the jewel)\nWithout much ado, you hand over the jewel.\n\n\"Thanks!\" he says brightly. He startles you by tossing it into the air where it transforms into small white pebble, which he then catches in his hand and shoves in his pocket. He offers an impish laugh... and suddenly things come together.\n\n\"It was you!\"\n\n\"I have to admit it was.\"\n\n\"But why?\" The Prince pauses for a moment.\n\n\"I have been trying to keep things safe and green here for a long while... but it's been getting harder and harder. There is a darkness pressing in.\" He motions out the window to a spot far on the horizon. You can see it. It is far away but it is there... It fills you with dread.\n\n\"The people have become complacent. Things have been going well for so long that they are becoming more and more careless. I need help to keep them safe from the outside. That's why I set up this test.\" It all makes sense now. But you're not exactly sure what he is asking of you. Finally, he spells it out:\n\n\"I need the help of good folks like you, who are brave and kind hearted, to help me guard the people against the coming darkness. But it's entirely up to you. There's not much time to waste though. Are you up for it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "You think long and hard. Earlier today, you would've run as fast as you could in the opposite direction. But you feel like an entirely different pixy. You provide him with your answer.\n\nPlease give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "Today is the day you've been waiting for! Today is the day when the Revolution arrives to sweep over this entire town, converting it to a worker's paradise! Your heart beats with trepidation and excitement and you can almost taste victory!\nBut victory's not here yet. You still have a lot of work to do. After all, it's like Marx said: It's one thing to interpret the world but the point is to change it. And today, change will come!\nNow if only you could find your Revolutionary To-Do List...\n\n\n\nIn future generations, this building may well be a museum, for this is where the People's Committee for the Revolution made their glorious plans to liberate all who are oppressed! The red light that illuminates the room might cause eye strain and make it hard to work, but it is truly inspiring.\nYou can exit the headquarters to the west (how appropriate!) and a staircase leads downwards to the lab.\n\nA giant workers' flag hangs on the back wall, filling your heart with Revolutionary Pride.\n\nUnderneath the flag sits the committee's desk, upon which all Revolutionary Managerial Work is accomplished.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy", "Slice of life" ]

[ "animal NPC", "changing environment", "gender-neutral protagonist", "GUEmap", "IF Competition 1995", "IFComp Game", "IFComp Winner", "Included on Activison Masterpieces CD", "map", "on Jay Is Games", "rain", "slice of life", "walkthrough", "weather" ]

[ 7, 25, 19, 7, 2 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Waiting on the shore; sand yields beneath my feet\nThe water shouts and roars and rushes\nAnd breaks on the rocks, and\nNever comes near to where I wait.\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You press space", "response": "The picnic is going full blast, which is exactly why you've wandered away from it. It's not that you don't like your new companions; it's just that after weeks of spending each day around them, a noisy weekend cook-out isn't the way to relax. Some exploration -- on your own -- is an appealing thought.\n\nNone of them noticed you drifting away, anyhow.\n\nCopyright 1995-6 by Andrew Plotkin. Please copy and play freely. (First-time players should type \"about\".)\n\nThe grasses are fragrant under the sunshine of a late, late summer afternoon. A stream chatters by at your feet, and a weathered old wooden bridge stretches across it to the east. Beyond the stream, a scrubby hillside stretches upward.\n\nThe shouts of the volleyball players and the boom-box thump are pleasantly far off to the west.\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stream", "response": "It's not particularly deep, but it's spectacularly clear. Streaks of green trail along the stones at the stream's bottom, and you see the rare glint of a fish in the sunlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You turn your back on the hill, and consider the distant shapes of your companions. One of them waves hugely to you. You shrug, and begin jogging towards them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bridge", "response": "A narrow span of weathered wood crosses the stream here. The boards are vaguely warped, and the handrails aren't quite connected each to the next, but it's held this long and you expect it will probably support you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sky", "response": "The sun is sinking slowly in a clear blue sky. It's the end of a long, long summer afternoon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cross the bridge", "response": "The bridge creaks as you cross it, and sways a bit.\n\nA slope descends to the noisy stream to the west. The old wooden bridge which spans it leans comfortably against the bank at your feet. To the east rises the flank of the hill, shining in the afternoon sunlight; two usable trails lead up around it, to the south and the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stream", "response": "It's not particularly deep, but it's spectacularly clear. Streaks of green trail along the stones at the stream's bottom, and you see the rare glint of a fish in the sunlight.\n\nThe sun is lazily approaching the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of bright meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with streams that glitter in the sunlight. In the distance, a lake reflects orange fire from the setting sun.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the spade", "response": "The broken spade is stuck in the dried mud. The shaft bends slightly; perhaps you can pull it free.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the spade", "response": "You get a good grip on what's left of the shaft.\n\nCrack!\n\nThe shaft has snapped off right where it joins the blade. The blade is left buried in the mud.\n\nFrom within some tall grass, you notice a pair of dark eyes. The grass blinks, and then it is a small, orange fox who watches you solemnly.\n\nThe fox chases around your feet for a moment. It seems to be watching something you hold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "The fox cocks its head as you wind up; it tenses to spring, and you hurl the stick far back into the undergrowth. With a yip the fox streaks after it.\n\nA moment later it's back, bushy tail high. It drops its prize at your feet.\n\nThe fox chases around the spade shaft for a moment, then stops and stares at you to make sure you didn't see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet fox", "response": "Without seeming to move, the fox is out of your way.\n\nThe sun is settling to the horizon, amid a scattering of clouds which have begun to drift in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sky", "response": "A few bands of cloud are visible on the western horizon, lit by the reddening sun.\n\nThe fox darts at something in the undergrowth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stick", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe fox vanishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the blade", "response": "The spade blade is stuck in the dried mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig mud", "response": "The mud is dry and quite hard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows glow in the sunlight, sweeping to the ribbons of color on the horizon. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is half-buried at the base of the hilltop.\n\nThe fox appears from behind the boulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at boulder", "response": "It's a roundish lump of rock -- about what you thought. Maybe two or two-and-a-half feet across.\n\nIn the shadow behind the boulder, you notice an edge of deeper blackness. It's a cave of some sort.\n\nThe western horizon has become a surging sea of gold and scarlet waves. The light is magical -- a cool bronze radiance that somehow makes the grass and foliage more intensely green than ever.\n\nThe fox chases its tail furiously for a moment, then stops and stares at you to make sure you didn't see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cave", "response": "You can only see a few inches of dark emptiness behind the boulder.\n\nThe fox chases around your feet for a moment. It seems to be watching something you hold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cave", "response": "There are only a few inches of space between the boulder and the cave mouth. You can't possibly squeeze through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pry boulder", "response": "You grasp the boulder as best you can and heave -- fruitlessly. It's well sunk into the ground.\n\nThe moment is gone. The sun has set, although the clouds are still well-lit.\n\nThe fox vanishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pry the boulder with the stick", "response": "The shaft is too thick to wedge under the boulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Stuck in the mud near it is a spade blade.\n\nThe fox appears beside a clump of weeds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The ground drops off, dangerously steeply, in that direction.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the last light. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is half-buried at the base of the hilltop. The mouth of a small cave is just visible behind it.\n\nThe fox appears from behind the boulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Stuck in the mud near it is a spade blade.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of dimming meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with dark streams. In the distance, a lake glows pale in the last light of the sky.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Stuck in the mud near it is a spade blade.\n\nThe sky is dimming, and a mist is rolling in, under the clouds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The hillside drops straight down in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The hillside drops straight off to the stream in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA small orange fox is perched nearby, staring at you with undisguised interest.\n\nA boulder is half-buried at the base of the hilltop. The mouth of a small cave is just visible behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trench", "response": "The trench is a foot deep or so, and maybe a yard wide. It starts where the wide trail turns, and leads west over the bank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig the cave", "response": "You won't get far without something to dig with.\n\nThe fox chases around your feet for a moment. It seems to be watching something you hold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at spade", "response": "At this point, it's just a two-foot-long stick, broken at both ends.\n\nThe fox chases its tail furiously for a moment, then stops and stares at you to make sure you didn't see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick into the cave", "response": "That can't contain things.\n\nThe fox has slipped away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of dim meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with dark streams. A layer of mist is rolling across the landscape.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Stuck in the mud near it is a spade blade.\n\nThe mist is turning to a drizzle of rain.\n\nThe fox appears beside a clump of weeds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Mist hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and clouds beyond sweep away into the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path. You could probably use it to get across. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little nicer.)\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe fox appears on a nearby rock.\n\nThe fox blinks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb tree", "response": "The trunk is smooth and the lowest branch is at least twenty feet in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bush", "response": "You see nothing special about the bush.\n\nThe fox has slipped away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the bush", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\nRunoff water is trickling down the hill, concentrated here by some twist of geography. It puddles on the ledge, then begins pouring down the path to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, to the misty meadows below.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.\n\nThe fox appears under a nearby bush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "It seems to be locked.\n\nIt's dark and it's raining.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lock", "response": "The shed is weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed. The lock looks badly rusted.\n\nThe fox has slipped away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the lock", "response": "It may be weathered, but it's not weakened. You can't even shake it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shed", "response": "The shed is weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed. The lock looks badly rusted.\n\nYou are getting tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Rain hides the stream below and the hilltop above, and to the west is only dark.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, and streams down the northwest path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "There's nothing suitable to drink here.\n\nIt's dark and it's raining. Hard.\n\nThe fox appears beside a clump of weeds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. A dark expanse stretches to the north and west, impenetrable with rain.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the southeast, and pouring down the trench to the unseen stream below.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Stuck in the mud near it is a spade blade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the spade", "response": "(the spade blade)\nThe spade blade slides free of the mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is half-buried at the base of the hilltop. The mouth of a small cave is just visible behind it.\n\nYou are getting tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pry boulder", "response": "You grasp the boulder as best you can and heave -- fruitlessly. It's well sunk into the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge spade under boulder", "response": "Which do you mean, the spade blade or the broken spade shaft?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blade", "response": "The blade is thin enough to work under the boulder, but it's too short to give you any leverage.\n\nThe fox appears beside a clump of weeds.\n\nThe fox glances at you, or perhaps something you hold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. A dark expanse stretches to the north and west, impenetrable with rain.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the southeast, and pouring down the trench to the unseen stream below.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nYou are very tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Rain hides the stream below and the hilltop above, and to the west is only dark.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, and streams down the northwest path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe fox appears under a nearby bush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, into darkness and rain.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.\n\nYou are very tired.\n\nThe fox appears on a nearby rock.\n\nThe fox glances at you, or perhaps something you hold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "Sleeping out in the rain will be miserable, but you're tired enough to do it. You curl up in the mud and grimly close your eyes...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nStone hangs around you, unyielding grey veils in a dim grey light. The light comes from far away: a knife-thin crack, a cold breath, and something roaring its anger beyond. The noise stretches and stretches, leaving you gasping for air, and then an eye opens into the heart of soundless fury --\n\nYou awaken, soaked and feverish, bathed in the listless light of an overcast dawn. It takes some time to drag yourself down the hill -- and then you find that the bridge has been washed out by the storm. By the time you flounder across it, your pneumonia is well set in.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, into darkness and rain.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nA small orange fox is perched nearby, staring at you with undisguised interest.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "You wind up and hurl the stick into the undergrowth. The fox turn to watch it fly, and then looks back at you. Its expression is quite clear: if you want the stick lost in cold, dripping-wet vegetation, that's entirely a matter between you and the stick.\n\nYou are very tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You have barely left sight of the shed when the trail ends. It looks like it was washed out; and the scree that covers the hill face is much too unstable to venture across. You have no choice but to return.\n\nYou can remain awake no longer. Sleeping out in the rain will be miserable, but you're tired enough to do it. You curl up in the mud and grimly close your eyes...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nStone hangs around you, unyielding grey veils in a dim grey light. The light comes from far away: a knife-thin crack, a cold breath, and something roaring its anger beyond. The noise stretches and stretches, leaving you gasping for air, and then an eye opens into the heart of soundless fury --\n\nYou awaken, soaked and feverish, bathed in the listless light of an overcast dawn. It takes some time to drag yourself down the hill -- and then you find that the bridge has been washed out by the storm. By the time you flounder across it, your pneumonia is well set in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The bridge creaks as you cross it, and sways a bit.\n\nA slope descends to the noisy stream to the west. The old wooden bridge which spans it leans comfortably against the bank at your feet. To the east rises the flank of the hill, shining in the afternoon sunlight; two usable trails lead up around it, to the south and the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You taste the water. It's cool -- with not the antiseptic bite of city tap water, but an indefinable vitality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of bright meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with streams that glitter in the sunlight. In the distance, a lake reflects white fire from the setting sun.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The hillside drops straight down in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The hillside drops straight off to the stream in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows glow in the sunlight. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is half-buried at the base of the hilltop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.\n\nFrom within some tall grass, you notice a pair of dark eyes. The grass blinks, and then it is a small, orange fox who watches you solemnly.\n\nThe fox chases its tail furiously for a moment, then stops and stares at you to make sure you didn't see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-east", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Greenery hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and sky beyond sweep away endlessly to the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path. You could probably use it to get across. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little nicer.)\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe sun is lazily approaching the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "A small orange fox is perched nearby, staring at you with undisguised interest.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of bushes and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, to the meadows below; you can see a lake far to the west.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The undergrowth is too dense in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You have barely left sight of the shed when the trail ends. It looks like it was washed out; and the scree that covers the hill face is much too unstable to venture across. You have no choice but to return.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Greenery hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and sky beyond sweep away endlessly to the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nYou catch a pair of dark eyes in the edge of your vision; then they are gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nElsewhere in the park, flowers lie in hollows and peek out from under the brush. Here you have found a profusion of them. Sprays of white and blue lie everywhere; the vines ripple yellow.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.\n\nA glint in a nearby bush looks more metallic than floral.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the glint", "response": "It's a battered old tin bucket.\n\nThe fox appears beside a clump of weeds.\n\nThe fox chases its tail furiously for a moment, then stops and stares at you to make sure you didn't see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bucket", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe sun is settling to the horizon, amid a scattering of clouds which have begun to drift in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A slope descends to the noisy stream to the west. The old wooden bridge which spans it leans comfortably against the bank at your feet. To the east rises the flank of the hill, shining in the afternoon sunlight; two usable trails lead up around it, to the south and the northeast.\n\nYou catch a pair of dark eyes in the edge of your vision; then they are gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-east", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of bright meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with streams that glitter ruby in the sunlight. In the distance, a lake reflects red fire from the setting sun.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "You fill the bucket with water.\n\nThe fox appears beside a clump of weeds.\n\nThe fox darts at something in the undergrowth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The stream is that way. You're interested in exploring, not getting yourself soaked and miserable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the spade", "response": "You splash the water around the spade. The mud absorbs it greedily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the spade", "response": "The broken spade slides free of the mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Greenery hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and sky beyond sweep away to the clouds in the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe western horizon has become a surging sea of gold and scarlet waves. The light is magical -- a cool bronze radiance that somehow makes the grass and foliage more intensely green than ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spade", "response": "It's a small spade; at least, the blade and about two feet of the shaft of one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows glow in the sunlight, sweeping to the ribbons of color on the horizon. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is half-buried at the base of the hilltop.\n\nThe western horizon has become a surging sea of gold and scarlet waves. The light is magical -- a cool bronze radiance that somehow makes the grass and foliage more intensely green than ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge blade under boulder", "response": "You notice a cave of some sort behind the boulder. (Who would have guessed?)\n\nYou push the spade under the boulder, kick the blade to settle it, and lean on the shaft. Nothing happens for a moment, and you're leaning harder, and the boulder starts to move, and\n\nCrack!\n\nThe spade's shaft has broken off in your hands, right above the blade, which is now caught under the boulder. On the other hand, you've moved the boulder up out of its hole; it's balanced on the rim.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You enter the cave", "response": "You squeeze behind the boulder and crawl inside.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a circle of blinding crimson to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nAn ancient and filthy blanket is crumpled against one wall of the cave.\n\nYou glance outside. The moment is gone. The sun has set, although the clouds are still well-lit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the blanket", "response": "It's a ratty old blanket, torn and mouse-chewed, tangled with bits of twig and old leaves. Nonetheless, it looks warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the blanket", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The cave narrows to a crack in back; you really can't go very far.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You crawl out.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the last light. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe sky is dimming, and a mist is rolling in, under the clouds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the blanket", "response": "Dropped.\n\nYou glance outside. The sky is dimming, and a mist is rolling in, under the clouds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You crawl out.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe fox appears on a nearby rock.\n\nThe fox darts at something in the undergrowth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a blanket, a broken spade shaft and a battered tin bucket.\n\nYou glance outside. The sky is dimming, and a mist is rolling in, under the clouds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a blanket, a broken spade shaft and a battered tin bucket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You exit", "response": "You crawl out.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the last light. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of dimming meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with dark streams. In the distance, a lake glows pale in the last light of the sky.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nThe sky is dimming, and a mist is rolling in, under the clouds.\n\nThe fox appears beside a clump of weeds.\n\nThe fox chases around your feet for a moment. It seems to be watching something you hold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "A slope descends to the noisy stream to the west. The old wooden bridge which spans it leans comfortably against the bank at your feet. To the east rises the flank of the hill, a dark shape in the twilight; two usable trails lead up around it, to the south and the northeast.\n\nThe fox appears on a nearby rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Elsewhere in the park, flowers lie in hollows and peek out from under the brush. Here you have found a profusion of them. Sprays of white and blue lie everywhere; the vines ripple yellow, although the blooms are closing for the night.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Beyond the rise, the hill drops almost straight down to the stream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns northeast as it climbs.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Mist hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and clouds beyond sweep away into the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The hill is too steep and overgrown to descend.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nElsewhere in the park, flowers lie in hollows and peek out from under the brush. Here you have found a profusion of them. Sprays of white and blue lie everywhere; the vines ripple yellow, although the blooms are closing for the night.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You have barely left sight of the wildflowers when the trail ends. It looks like it was washed out; and the scree that covers the hill face is much too unstable to venture across. You have no choice but to return.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns northeast as it climbs.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Mist hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and clouds beyond sweep away into the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe mist is turning to a drizzle of rain.\n\nThe blanket is getting damp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, to the misty meadows below.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The door to the shed is closed. You tug on it and rattle the latch, but it's locked, and the lock looks hopelessly rusted.\n\nThe blanket is getting damp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Mist hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and clouds beyond sweep away into the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of dark meadowland, barely visible in the thickening mist.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nThe blanket is getting damp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist and rain. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cave", "response": "You squeeze behind the boulder and crawl inside.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a lit circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nYou glance outside. It's dark and it's raining.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You wrap yourself snugly in the blanket and curl up on the floor. It's hard, but you're dry and warm. What else could you ask for? Your eyes close and the cave drifts away...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nStone dissolves around you as move up and forwards, into a grainy grey light. A mindless roar stretches in all directions; but it is troubled by a distant murmur. The new sound swells, whispering, pounding, then shouting at you, and you cannot make it out and you cannot make it go --\n\nSomething awakens you.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a dim circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nThe voices are still audible. They surge and swell, on the edge of audibility, somewhere to the west. You are almost certain you hear your name being called.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "A sussurus of voices comes from the west, too faint to make out but too loud to ignore. You are almost certain you hear your name, though, and something in you moves to respond.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain, and scarred with distant lightning. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe blanket has gotten quite soaked.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "A sussurus of voices comes from the west, too faint to make out but too loud to ignore. You are almost certain you hear your name, though, and something in you moves to respond.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. A black expanse stretches to the north and west, impenetrable with rain. Every few moments, a directionless flicker of lightning tries to pull detail from the darkness; but there is only mist.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the southeast, and pouring down the trench to the unseen stream below.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "A slope descends to the noisy stream to the west. The old wooden bridge which spans it leans uncertainly against the bank at your feet. To the east rises the flank of the hill, a black shape made of night and rain; two usable trails lead up around it, to the south and the northeast.\n\nThe voices surge, and you realize the sounds comes from the west, from the other side of the stream. And they are coming closer. You are very sure, suddenly, that you do not want them to reach you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The thought of crossing into that darkness, with its inhabitants, is beyond bearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shout", "response": "Whom do you want to shout that to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. A black expanse stretches to the north and west, impenetrable with rain. Every few moments, a directionless flicker of lightning tries to pull detail from the darkness; but there is only mist.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the southeast, and pouring down the trench to the unseen stream below.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Rain hides the stream below and the hilltop above, and to the west is only dark.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, and streams down the northwest path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, into darkness and rain.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a blanket, a broken spade shaft and a battered tin bucket.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Rain hides the stream below and the hilltop above, and to the west is only dark.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, and streams down the northwest path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. Simultaneously the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder. It is echoed by a splintering concussion right above your head, or, from the feel of it, just inside.\n\nYou watch the tree topple through blobs of dull color.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe runoff water is backing up behind the fallen tree.\n\nYou pick yourself up shakily, although you can't quite remember falling. The air is full of smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA profusion of flowers lie here, mostly furled against the rain. Edges of white and blue and yellow barely show in the darkness.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tree", "response": "The tree has fallen downslope, across the path, and is lying awkwardly in the undergrowth. The upper end -- which is to say, the lower end -- is blackened and split.\n\nThe runoff water begins to spill out from behind the tree, down the southwest path.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "You fill the bucket with water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, into darkness and rain.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the lock", "response": "The water splashes over the old shed and dribbles away.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the lock", "response": "It may be weathered, but it's not weakened. You can't even shake it.\n\nFrom somewhere below, you hear a terrible\n\nCrack!\n\nYou know without seeing that the bridge has been destroyed. You begin to rush downhill, but the trail seems to stretch and time takes on the weight of nightmare...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nYou awaken in the cave, sore and cold, bathed in the listless light of an overcast dawn. By the time you wade across the swollen stream, you're as soaked and miserable as if you'd slept out in the rain after all. You reach civilization exhausted and with what promises to be a lovely cough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Elsewhere in the park, flowers lie in hollows and peek out from under the brush. Here you have found a profusion of them. Sprays of white and blue lie everywhere; the vines ripple yellow.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.\n\nA glint in a nearby bush looks more metallic than floral.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the glint", "response": "(It turns out to be a battered old tin bucket.) Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "You fill the bucket with water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of bright meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with streams that glitter in the sunlight. In the distance, a lake reflects white fire from the setting sun.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.\n\nThe sun is lazily approaching the horizon.\n\nYou catch a pair of dark eyes in the edge of your vision; then they are gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the spade", "response": "You splash the water around the spade. The mud absorbs it greedily.\n\nFrom within some tall grass, you notice a pair of dark eyes. The grass blinks, and then it is a small, orange fox who watches you solemnly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows glow in the thickening sunlight. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is half-buried at the base of the hilltop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge blade under rock", "response": "You notice a cave of some sort behind the boulder. (Who would have guessed?)\n\nYou push the spade under the boulder, kick the blade to settle it, and lean on the shaft. Nothing happens for a moment, and you're leaning harder, and the boulder starts to move, and\n\nCrack!\n\nThe spade's shaft has broken off in your hands, right above the blade, which is now caught under the boulder. On the other hand, you've moved the boulder up out of its hole; it's balanced on the rim.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Greenery hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and sky beyond sweep away endlessly to the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path. You could probably use it to get across. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little nicer.)\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nYou catch a pair of dark eyes in the edge of your vision; then they are gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You heft the broken spade, considering your balance. You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of bushes and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, to the meadows below; you can see a lake far to the west.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the lock", "response": "It may be weathered, but it's not weakened. You can't even shake it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the lock", "response": "It may be weathered, but it's not weakened. You can't even shake it.\n\nThe sun is settling to the horizon, amid a scattering of clouds which have begun to drift in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "What do you want to dig in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You heft the broken spade, considering your balance. You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Greenery hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and sky beyond sweep away endlessly to the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe fox appears beside a clump of weeds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nElsewhere in the park, flowers lie in hollows and peek out from under the brush. Here you have found a profusion of them. Sprays of white and blue lie everywhere; the vines ripple yellow.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.\n\nThe sun is settling to the horizon, amid a scattering of clouds which have begun to drift in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A slope descends to the noisy stream to the west. The old wooden bridge which spans it leans comfortably against the bank at your feet. To the east rises the flank of the hill, shining in the afternoon sunlight; two usable trails lead up around it, to the south and the northeast.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of bright meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with streams that glitter in the sunlight. In the distance, a lake reflects white fire from the setting sun.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.\n\nThe sun is lazily approaching the horizon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the water on the spade", "response": "You splash the water around the spade. The mud absorbs it greedily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge blade under boulder", "response": "You notice a cave of some sort behind the boulder. (Who would have guessed?)\n\nYou push the spade under the boulder, kick the blade to settle it, and lean on the shaft. Nothing happens for a moment, and you're leaning harder, and the boulder starts to move, and\n\nCrack!\n\nThe spade's shaft has broken off in your hands, right above the blade, which is now caught under the boulder. On the other hand, you've moved the boulder up out of its hole; it's balanced on the rim.\n\nFrom within some tall grass, you notice a pair of dark eyes. The grass blinks, and then it is a small, orange fox who watches you solemnly.\n\nThe fox chases around your feet for a moment. It seems to be watching something you hold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You squeeze behind the boulder and crawl inside.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a circle of scarlet and gold to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nAn ancient and filthy blanket is crumpled against one wall of the cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig the mud", "response": "You scrape some mud away. Aside from getting your hands dirty, it accomplishes little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take blanket", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou glance outside. The sun is settling to the horizon, amid a scattering of clouds which have begun to drift in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You crawl out.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows glow in the sunlight, sweeping to the ribbons of color on the horizon. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nFrom within some tall grass, you notice a pair of dark eyes. The grass blinks, and then it is a small, orange fox who watches you solemnly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "The fox cocks its head as you wind up; it tenses to spring, and you hurl the stick far back into the undergrowth. With a yip the fox streaks after it.\n\nA moment later it's back, bushy tail high. It drops its prize at your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stick", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "The fox cocks its head as you wind up; it tenses to spring, and you hurl the stick far back into the undergrowth. With a yip the fox streaks after it.\n\nA moment later it's back, bushy tail high. It drops its prize at your feet with an unexpected clink.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe western horizon has become a surging sea of gold and scarlet waves. The light is magical -- a cool bronze radiance that somehow makes the grass and foliage more intensely green than ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cave", "response": "You squeeze behind the boulder and crawl inside.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a circle of blinding crimson to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "It's not even dark yet!\n\nYou glance outside. The moment is gone. The sun has set, although the clouds are still well-lit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou glance outside. The sky is dimming, and a mist is rolling in, under the clouds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou glance outside. The mist is turning to a drizzle of rain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou glance outside. It's dark and it's raining.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You wrap yourself snugly in the blanket and curl up on the floor. It's hard, but you're dry and warm. What else could you ask for? Your eyes close and the cave drifts away...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nStone dissolves around you as move up and forwards, into a grainy grey light. A mindless roar stretches in all directions; but it is troubled by a distant murmur. The new sound swells, whispering, pounding, then shouting at you, and you cannot make it out and you cannot make it go --\n\nSomething awakens you.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a dim circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nThe voices are still audible. They surge and swell, on the edge of audibility, somewhere to the west. You are almost certain you hear your name being called.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain, and scarred with distant lightning. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA rusty steel key is lying on the ground.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe blanket has gotten quite soaked.\n\nThat's odd. The steel key doesn't seem as rusty as you first thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the blanket", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain, and scarred with distant lightning. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA rusty steel key is lying on the ground.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.\n\nThat's odd. The steel key doesn't seem as rusty as you first thought.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a lit circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nYou glance outside. It's dark and it's raining.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "Taken.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. A black expanse stretches to the north and west, impenetrable with rain. Every few moments, a directionless flicker of lightning tries to pull detail from the darkness; but there is only mist.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the southeast, and pouring down the trench to the unseen stream below.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Rain hides the stream below and the hilltop above, and to the west is only dark.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path. You could probably use it to get across. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little nicer.)\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, and streams down the northwest path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock shed", "response": "What do you want to unlock the old shed with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Key", "response": "The lock is stiff. You give the key a jerk; the latch scrapes, and the door swings open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You step hesitantly into the darkness.\n\nYou feel the hollow darkness of an enclosed space. To the west, an oblong of flat grey half-light betrays the doorway. Nothing else is visible.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder from outside.\n\nThe pure white fades into a greenish glare. Flat colored shadows show the outlines of everything around you; you hold your head still to focus on the afterimages.\n\nThe shed is only a few paces long, and nearly empty. The door is to the west.\n\nA pair of large canvas bags is piled untidily here. One is rather dirty; the other has a tear along one seam, from which sand dribbles onto the ground.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at bags", "response": "Which do you mean, the dirty sandbag or the torn sandbag?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dirty sandbag", "response": "It's a canvas bag, more than two feet long. The surface is liberally smeared with mud.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nIt is dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. Simultaneously the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder from outside. It is echoed by a splintering crash from somewhere outside.\n\nThe pure white fades into a greenish glare. Flat colored shadows show the outlines of everything around you; you hold your head still to focus on the afterimages.\n\nThe shed is only a few paces long, and nearly empty. The door is to the west.\n\nA pair of large canvas bags is piled untidily here. One is rather dirty; the other has a tear along one seam, from which sand dribbles onto the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "dirty sandbag: You heave the dirty sandbag, awkwardly, up into your arms.\ntorn sandbag: One of these things, you can barely carry. Two, never.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.\n\nIt is dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the dirty sandbag", "response": "It's sewn shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a dirty sandbag, a rusty key and a battered tin bucket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You feel the hollow darkness of an enclosed space. To the west, an oblong of flat grey half-light betrays the doorway. Nothing else is visible.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, into darkness and rain.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is open to the unrelieved darkness within.\n\nFrom somewhere below, you hear a terrible\n\nCrack!\n\nYou know without seeing that the bridge has been destroyed. You begin to rush downhill, but the trail seems to stretch and time takes on the weight of nightmare...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dirty sandbag", "response": "You awaken in the cave, sore and cold, bathed in the listless light of an overcast dawn. By the time you wade across the swollen stream, you're as soaked and miserable as if you'd slept out in the rain after all. You reach civilization exhausted and with what promises to be a lovely cough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You catch a pair of dark eyes in the edge of your vision; then they are gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "You fill the bucket with water.\n\nFrom within some tall grass, you notice a pair of dark eyes. The grass blinks, and then it is a small, orange fox who watches you solemnly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fox", "response": "The fox's eyes gleam darkly.\n\nThe sun is lazily approaching the horizon.\n\nThe fox chases its tail furiously for a moment, then stops and stares at you to make sure you didn't see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The hillside is bare rock in that direction, and much too steep to climb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of bright meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with streams that glitter in the sunlight. In the distance, a lake reflects orange fire from the setting sun.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour water", "response": "What do you want to pour the quantity of water on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Mud", "response": "You splash the water around the spade. The mud absorbs it greedily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig the trench", "response": "You scrape some more dirt from the trench. Aside from getting your hands dirty, it accomplishes little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Greenery hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and sky beyond sweep away endlessly to the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path. You could probably use it to get across. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little nicer.)\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You heft the broken spade, considering your balance. You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of bushes and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, to the meadows below; you can see a lake far to the west.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.\n\nThe sun is settling to the horizon, amid a scattering of clouds which have begun to drift in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "Thrown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stick", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shed", "response": "The shed is weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed. The lock looks badly rusted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a broken spade and a battered tin bucket.\n\nThe fox appears under a nearby bush.\n\nThe fox darts at something in the undergrowth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stick", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe western horizon has become a surging sea of gold and scarlet waves. The light is magical -- a cool bronze radiance that somehow makes the grass and foliage more intensely green than ever.\n\nThe fox has slipped away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in a dense tangle of bushes, small trees, and shadow. The ground falls away to the southeast, to the green meadows below; you can see a lake far to the west.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You heft the broken spade, considering your balance. You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe moment is gone. The sun has set, although the clouds are still well-lit.\n\nYou catch a pair of dark eyes in the edge of your vision; then they are gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "Someone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the last light. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is half-buried at the base of the hilltop.\n\nThe fox appears under a nearby bush.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "Thrown.\n\nThe fox darts at something in the undergrowth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stick", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge boulder", "response": "What do you want to wedge the boulder in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge stick", "response": "What do you want to wedge the broken spade in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying a broken spade and a battered tin bucket.\n\nThe fox vanishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pry boulder", "response": "As you lean over the boulder, you notice a cave of some sort behind it.\n\nYou grasp the boulder as best you can and heave -- fruitlessly. It's well sunk into the ground.\n\nThe sky is dimming, and a mist is rolling in, under the clouds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You insert the spade", "response": "What do you want to insert the broken spade in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Boulder", "response": "You push the spade under the boulder, kick the blade to settle it, and lean on the shaft. Nothing happens for a moment, and you're leaning harder, and the boulder starts to move, and\n\nCrack!\n\nThe spade's shaft has broken off in your hands, right above the blade, which is now caught under the boulder. On the other hand, you've moved the boulder up out of its hole; it's balanced on the rim.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the boulder", "response": "The boulder is too heavy to lift.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get blade", "response": "The boulder is resting full on the spade blade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You squeeze behind the boulder and crawl inside.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a lit circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nAn ancient and filthy blanket is crumpled against one wall of the cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You crawl out.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe mist is turning to a drizzle of rain.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist and rain. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nIt's dark and it's raining.\n\nThe fox appears from behind the boulder.\n\nThe fox glances at you, or perhaps something you hold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "You wind up and hurl the stick into the undergrowth. The fox turn to watch it fly, and then looks back at you. Its expression is quite clear: if you want the stick lost in cold, dripping-wet vegetation, that's entirely a matter between you and the stick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in rain. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA small orange fox is perched nearby, staring at you with undisguised interest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe fox disappears in a flash of orange fur.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go the cave", "response": "You squeeze behind the boulder and crawl inside.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a dim circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nAn ancient and filthy blanket is crumpled against one wall of the cave.\n\nYou are getting tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Enter saved game to load: Ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a broken spade shaft and a battered tin bucket.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You squeeze behind the boulder and crawl inside.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a lit circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nAn ancient and filthy blanket is crumpled against one wall of the cave.\n\nYou glance outside. The mist is turning to a drizzle of rain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear blanket", "response": "(first taking the blanket)\nYou can't wear that!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou are getting tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You wrap yourself snugly in the blanket and curl up on the floor. It's hard, but you're dry and warm. What else could you ask for? Your eyes close and the cave drifts away...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "Stone dissolves around you as move up and forwards, into a grainy grey light. A mindless roar stretches in all directions; but it is troubled by a distant murmur. The new sound swells, whispering, pounding, then shouting at you, and you cannot make it out and you cannot make it go --\n\nSomething awakens you.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a dim circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nThe voices are still audible. They surge and swell, on the edge of audibility, somewhere to the west. You are almost certain you hear your name being called.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "F.", "response": "Enter saved game to store: Ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain, and scarred with distant lightning. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe blanket has gotten quite soaked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain, and scarred with distant lightning. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. A black expanse stretches to the north and west, impenetrable with rain. Every few moments, a directionless flicker of lightning tries to pull detail from the darkness; but there is only mist.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the southeast, and pouring down the trench to the unseen stream below.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. Simultaneously the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder. It is echoed by a splintering crash from the southeast.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe torrent of runoff slackens sharply; in moments there is only a trickle left.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nFrom somewhere below, you hear a terrible\n\nCrack!\n\nYou know without seeing that the bridge has been destroyed. You begin to rush downhill, but the trail seems to stretch and time takes on the weight of nightmare...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You awaken in the cave, sore and cold, bathed in the listless light of an overcast dawn. By the time you wade across the swollen stream, you're as soaked and miserable as if you'd slept out in the rain after all. You reach civilization exhausted and with what promises to be a lovely cough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Enter saved game to load: Ok.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe fox appears from behind the boulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "The fox cocks its head as you wind up; it tenses to spring, and you hurl the stick far back into the undergrowth. With a yip the fox streaks after it.\n\nA moment later it's back, bushy tail high. It drops its prize at your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stick", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe mist is turning to a drizzle of rain.\n\nThe fox glances at you, or perhaps something you hold.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist and rain. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA small orange fox is perched nearby, staring at you with undisguised interest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe fox blinks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a broken spade shaft and a battered tin bucket.\n\nThe fox disappears in a flash of orange fur.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of dark meadowland, barely visible in the thickening mist.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stick", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe trickle of runoff coming down the southeast path gains strength. Rapidly it becomes a small torrent, pouring by you, out along the trench, and down to the stream below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows fade in the mist and rain. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nIt's dark and it's raining.\n\nThe fox appears on a nearby rock.\n\nThe fox suddenly shakes a shower of droplets off itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The underbrush is too dense in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. A dark expanse stretches to the north and west, impenetrable with rain.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the southeast, and pouring down the trench to the unseen stream below.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "A slope descends to the noisy stream to the west. The old wooden bridge which spans it leans uncertainly against the bank at your feet. To the east rises the flank of the hill, a black shape made of night and rain; two usable trails lead up around it, to the south and the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the bucket", "response": "You fill the bucket with water.\n\nYou are getting tired.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A profusion of flowers lie here, mostly furled against the rain. Edges of white and blue and yellow barely show in the darkness.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns northeast as it climbs.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Rain hides the stream below and the hilltop above, and to the west is only dark.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, and streams down the northwest path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe fox appears on a nearby rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "You wind up and hurl the stick into the undergrowth. The fox turn to watch it fly, and then looks back at you. Its expression is quite clear: if you want the stick lost in cold, dripping-wet vegetation, that's entirely a matter between you and the stick.\n\nIt's dark and it's raining. Hard.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a dim circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain, and scarred with distant lightning. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe blanket has gotten quite soaked.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the blanket", "response": "Dropped.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nYou are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain, and scarred with distant lightning. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "A wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of bright meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with streams that glitter in the sunlight. In the distance, a lake reflects white fire from the setting sun.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank. Abandoned in the mud near it is a spade. You figure someone was using the spade to dig the trench, and you can also figure why he stopped; the shaft is broken off about two feet up from the blade. The handle end is nowhere in sight.\n\nThe sun is lazily approaching the horizon.\n\nThe fox appears on a nearby rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour water", "response": "What do you want to pour the quantity of water on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Mud", "response": "You splash the water around the spade. The mud absorbs it greedily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe fox appears on a nearby rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "The fox cocks its head as you wind up; it tenses to spring, and you hurl the stick far back into the undergrowth. With a yip the fox streaks after it.\n\nA moment later it's back, bushy tail high. It drops its prize at your feet.\n\nThe sun is settling to the horizon, amid a scattering of clouds which have begun to drift in.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows glow in the sunlight, sweeping to the ribbons of color on the horizon. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA small orange fox is perched nearby, staring at you with undisguised interest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nYou can also see a broken spade shaft here.\n\nThe fox chases its tail furiously for a moment, then stops and stares at you to make sure you didn't see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the stick", "response": "The fox cocks its head as you wind up; it tenses to spring, and you hurl the stick far back into the undergrowth. With a yip the fox streaks after it.\n\nA moment later it's back, bushy tail high. It drops its prize at your feet with an unexpected clink.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, meadows glow in the sunlight, sweeping to the ribbons of color on the horizon. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA rusty steel key is lying on the ground.\n\nA small orange fox is perched nearby, staring at you with undisguised interest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe fox darts at something in the undergrowth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou glance outside. The western horizon has become a surging sea of gold and scarlet waves. The light is magical -- a cool bronze radiance that somehow makes the grass and foliage more intensely green than ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou glance outside. The moment is gone. The sun has set, although the clouds are still well-lit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou glance outside. The mist is turning to a drizzle of rain.\n\nTime passes.\n\nTime passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You take the blanket, wrap yourself snugly in it, and curl up on the floor. It's hard, but you're dry and warm. What else could you ask for? Your eyes close and the cave drifts away...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yo", "response": "Stone dissolves around you as move up and forwards, into a grainy grey light. A mindless roar stretches in all directions; but it is troubled by a distant murmur. The new sound swells, whispering, pounding, then shouting at you, and you cannot make it out and you cannot make it go --\n\nSomething awakens you.\n\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a dim circle of grey to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nThe voices are still audible. They surge and swell, on the edge of audibility, somewhere to the west. You are almost certain you hear your name being called.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe blanket has gotten quite soaked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a rusty key and a battered tin bucket.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.\n\nThat's odd. The steel key doesn't seem as rusty as you first thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You crawl out. The rain lashes your face.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the southeast, and pouring down the trench to the unseen stream below.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Rain hides the stream below and the hilltop above, and to the west is only dark.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path. You could probably use it to get across. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little nicer.)\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, and streams down the northwest path.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nYou are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, into darkness and rain.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is closed.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock shed", "response": "What do you want to unlock the old shed with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Key", "response": "The lock is stiff. You give the key a jerk; the latch scrapes, and the door swings open.\n\nThat's odd. The steel key doesn't seem as rusty as you first thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You step hesitantly into the darkness.\n\nYou feel the hollow darkness of an enclosed space. To the west, an oblong of flat grey half-light betrays the doorway. Nothing else is visible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder from outside.\n\nThe pure white fades into a greenish glare. Flat colored shadows show the outlines of everything around you; you hold your head still to focus on the afterimages.\n\nThe shed is only a few paces long, and nearly empty. The door is to the west.\n\nA pair of large canvas bags is piled untidily here. One is rather dirty; the other has a tear along one seam, from which sand dribbles onto the ground.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get torn", "response": "You heave the torn sandbag, awkwardly, up into your arms. You manage to do it without straining the torn cloth further.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nIt is dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is open to the unrelieved darkness within.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. Simultaneously the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder. It is echoed by a splintering crash from the north.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You heft the torn sandbag, considering your balance. You stretch a foot towards the bush, shift your weight, and take two quick steps. The bush trembles but holds.\n\nA bush is growing out of a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nThe lone tree has been laid low. About ten feet still sticks up from the ground; the rest lies across the path and downslope, splintered and scorched.\n\nA heavy branch seems to have been blown from the tree. It lies on the ground nearby. One end is still burning.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, behind the fallen tree.\n\nThe runoff water begins to spill out from behind the tree, down the southwest path.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nThe trickle of rainwater coming down the east path gains strength. Rapidly it becomes a small torrent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The trickle of runoff coming down the south path gains strength. Rapidly it becomes a small torrent.\n\nThe runoff water is pouring down to the stream, right over the bridge pilings. The muddy earth below the bridge is wearing away.\n\nThe voices surge, and you realize the sounds comes from the west, from the other side of the stream. And they are coming closer. You are very sure, suddenly, that you do not want them to reach you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop torn", "response": "You lower the torn sandbag to the ground, trying not to strain it.\n\nThe runoff water is backing up behind the torn sandbag.\n\nYou jerk as a shape darts past you. Wild orange fury -- it's the fox, hurtling up onto the bridge like an avenging spirit. The fox crouches on the wet planks and stares fiercely out to the west.\n\nThe distant murmur of voices, across the bridge, seems closer now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns southeast as it climbs.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You get the blade", "response": "Taken.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "The bush seems to have been utterly demolished by the falling boulder. Nothing is left in the crack but a couple of splinters. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little stranger.)\n\nThe lone tree has been laid low. About ten feet still sticks up from the ground; the rest lies across the path and downslope, splintered and scorched.\n\nA heavy branch seems to have been blown from the tree. It lies on the ground nearby, blackened but no longer burning.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, behind the fallen tree, and streams down the southwest path.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge blade", "response": "What do you want to wedge the spade blade in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Crack", "response": "What do you want to crack?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge blade in crack", "response": "The spade blade slips into the crack. You stretch and give it a couple of whacks, to wedge it in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get branch", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Rain hides the stream below and the hilltop above, and to the west is only dark.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nThe spade blade is jammed into a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nThe lone tree has been laid low. About ten feet still sticks up from the ground; the rest lies across the path and downslope, splintered and scorched.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, behind the fallen tree, and streams down the southwest path.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You heft the heavy branch, considering your balance. You realize that you'll never make it across. The blade only sticks out a few inches from the hillside; you'd be off-balance enough by yourself, never mind what you're carrying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are high on the hill; it rolls downward and off to the west. Beyond the trees and brush, the world is cloaked in dark rain, and scarred with distant lightning. Behind you stands the last stony lump of hill. A narrow trail curves away to the northwest.\n\nA boulder is lying at the base of the hilltop, prised up out of the hole it was in. The boulder is resting on a spade blade. There's just enough room to squeeze into the cave behind it.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "The fox is crouched on the bridge, staring out to the west with impenetrable intensity.\n\nA torn sandbag is lying in a narrow part of the path.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nThe fox's ears twitch tensely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The boulder is lying near here, on the path, wedged against the rise.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the east, and backing up on the path here.\n\nThe runoff water is backing up behind the boulder.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The trail turns northeast as it climbs.\n\nThe bush seems to have been utterly demolished by the falling boulder. Nothing is left in the crack but a couple of splinters. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little stranger.)\n\nThe lone tree has been laid low. About ten feet still sticks up from the ground; the rest lies across the path and downslope, splintered and scorched.\n\nA heavy branch seems to have been blown from the tree. It lies on the ground nearby, blackened but no longer burning.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, behind the fallen tree, and streams down the southwest path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying a rusty key and a battered tin bucket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The gap is too wide to jump, and you'll never get a foothold in that crack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a rusty key and a battered tin bucket.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a heavy branch, a rusty key and a battered tin bucket.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "heavy branch: Dropped.\nrusty key: Dropped.\nbattered tin bucket: Dropped.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all except the branch", "response": "rusty key: Dropped.\nbattered tin bucket: Dropped.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying a heavy branch.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "Someone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southwest", "response": "The fox is crouched on the bridge, staring out to the west with impenetrable intensity.\n\nA torn sandbag is lying in a narrow part of the path.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fox", "response": "The fox's eyes gleam darkly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The boulder is lying near here, on the path, wedged against the rise.\n\nA stream of runoff water is flowing down from the east, and backing up on the path here.\n\nThe runoff water is backing up behind the boulder.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the water", "response": "A stream of runoff water is flowing down from the east, and backing up on the path here.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe runoff water is backing up behind the boulder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The trail turns northeast as it climbs.\n\nThe spade blade is jammed into a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nThe lone tree has been laid low. About ten feet still sticks up from the ground; the rest lies across the path and downslope, splintered and scorched.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, behind the fallen tree, and streams down the southwest path.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the branch", "response": "Dropped.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You flatten your body against the hillside, and stretch a foot towards the spade blade, off-center though you'll be. One quick step; you manage to fall forward onto the trail rather than sideways.\n\nThe spade blade is jammed into a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is open to the unrelieved darkness within.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You step hesitantly into the darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder from outside.\n\nThe pure white fades into a greenish glare. Flat colored shadows show the outlines of everything around you; you hold your head still to focus on the afterimages.\n\nThe shed is only a few paces long, and nearly empty. The door is to the west.\n\nA dirty sandbag is lying on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dirty sandbag", "response": "You heave the dirty sandbag, awkwardly, up into your arms.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.\n\nIt is dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sandbag", "response": "It's too dark to see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The spade blade is jammed into a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is open to the unrelieved darkness within.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the bag", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bag", "response": "You heave the dirty sandbag, awkwardly, up into your arms.\n\nFrom somewhere below, you hear a terrible\n\nCrack!\n\nYou know without seeing that the bridge has been destroyed. You begin to rush downhill, but the trail seems to stretch and time takes on the weight of nightmare...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The spade blade is jammed into a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is open to the unrelieved darkness within.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You heft the dirty sandbag, considering your balance. You realize that you'll never make it across. The blade only sticks out a few inches from the hillside; you'd be off-balance enough by yourself, never mind what you're carrying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The ground drops almost straight down in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "No trails go up the hill from here, and the undergrowth is too heavy to push through.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are in a dense tangle of shadow, bushes, and small trees. The ground falls away to the southeast, into darkness and rain.\n\nA trail curves down to the southwest. Another cuts along the hill to the north, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nThe spade blade is jammed into a crack in the hillside, to the north. It's right in the gap in the northern path.\n\nAn old shed stands just to the east. It's weathered but sturdy, still wearing the tatters of a coat of white paint. The door is open to the unrelieved darkness within.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the blade", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe afterimages evaporate into a black dazzle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The underbrush is too dense in that direction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "The bush seems to have been utterly demolished by the falling boulder. Nothing is left in the crack but a couple of splinters. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little stranger.)\n\nThe lone tree has been laid low. About ten feet still sticks up from the ground; the rest lies across the path and downslope, splintered and scorched.\n\nA heavy branch seems to have been blown from the tree. It lies on the ground nearby, blackened but no longer burning.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, behind the fallen tree, and streams down the southwest path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get branch", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wedge blade in crack", "response": "The spade blade slips into the crack. You stretch and give it a couple of whacks, to wedge it in place.\n\nA no-time, eternal instant of light lances through you, snapping your mind to silence. A moment later the silence is broken by a\n\nCrack!\n\nof thunder.\n\nAfterimages hang around you in a greenish glare. You blink furiously, trying to sort out the shadows from what's really there.\n\nThe voices surge, then fade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the bag across", "response": "What do you want to throw the dirty sandbag across?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the bag north", "response": "You heave the dirty sandbag across the gap; it thuds onto the trail on the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You flatten your body against the hillside, and stretch a foot towards the spade blade, off-center though you'll be. One quick step; you manage to fall forward onto the trail rather than sideways.\n\nThe spade blade is jammed into a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nA dirty sandbag is lying on the ground.\n\nA heavy branch lies on the ground nearby, blackened but no longer burning.\n\nThe lone tree has been laid low. About ten feet still sticks up from the ground; the rest lies across the path and downslope, splintered and scorched.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, behind the fallen tree, and streams down the southwest path. The sandbag is lying in the torrent, but the path is too wide here; the water pours around it.\n\nFrom somewhere below, you hear a terrible\n\nCrack!\n\nYou know without seeing that the bridge has been destroyed. You begin to rush downhill, but the trail seems to stretch and time takes on the weight of nightmare...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You awaken in the cave, sore and cold, bathed in the listless light of an overcast dawn. By the time you wade across the swollen stream, you're as soaked and miserable as if you'd slept out in the rain after all. You reach civilization exhausted and with what promises to be a lovely cough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a blanket, a rusty key and a battered tin bucket.\n\nThat's odd. The steel key doesn't seem as rusty as you first thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You flatten your body against the hillside, and stretch a foot towards the spade blade, off-center though you'll be. One quick step; you manage to fall forward onto the trail rather than sideways.\n\nThe spade blade is jammed into a crack in the hillside, to the south. It's right in the gap in the southern path.\n\nA dirty sandbag is lying on the ground.\n\nA heavy branch lies on the ground nearby, blackened but no longer burning.\n\nThe lone tree has been laid low. About ten feet still sticks up from the ground; the rest lies across the path and downslope, splintered and scorched.\n\nRunoff water is flowing down the hillside here. It puddles on the ledge, behind the fallen tree, and streams down the southwest path. The sandbag is lying in the torrent, but the path is too wide here; the water pours around it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sandbag", "response": "You heave the dirty sandbag, awkwardly, up into your arms.\n\nFrom somewhere below, you hear a terrible\n\nCrack!\n\nYou know without seeing that the bridge has been destroyed. You begin to rush downhill, but the trail seems to stretch and time takes on the weight of nightmare...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go to the northwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA wide angular tongue juts out from the hillside. The park stretches off to the north and west, a vast expanse of dim meadowland, patched with dark woods and stitched with dark streams. A layer of mist is rolling across the landscape.\n\nA trail leads southwest down the hill, towards the bridge. From where you stand, it turns southeast and continues upward, deeply cut into the hillside. A narrower trail leads more steeply up to the east.\n\nSomeone has dug a trench here, from the path out over the bank.\n\nThe mist is turning to a drizzle of rain.\n\nThe fox appears under a nearby bush.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "A slope descends to the noisy stream to the west. The old wooden bridge which spans it leans uncertainly against the bank at your feet. To the east rises the flank of the hill, a dark shape in the twilight; two usable trails lead up around it, to the south and the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A profusion of flowers lie here, mostly furled against the rain. Edges of white and blue and yellow show in the dim light.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.\n\nThe boulder is lying near here, on the path, wedged against the rise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The trail turns northeast as it climbs.\n\nYou're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Mist hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and clouds beyond sweep away into the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nThe bush seems to have been utterly demolished by the falling boulder. Nothing is left in the crack but a couple of splinters. (One of those little coincidences that makes your life a little stranger.)\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The hill is too steep and overgrown to descend.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The trail turns west as it descends.\n\nA profusion of flowers lie here, mostly furled against the rain. Edges of white and blue and yellow show in the dim light.\n\nBeyond a slight rise to the west, the ground drops precipitously to the stream. A trail leads northward towards the bridge; another heads steeply up to the east, and a third curves around the hill to the southeast.\n\nThe boulder is lying near here, on the path, wedged against the rise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The hill is too steep and overgrown to climb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You're standing on a ledge, on a rather steep, overgrown hillface. Mist hides the stream below and the hilltop above, but the meadows and clouds beyond sweep away into the west.\n\nTrails angle down to the northwest and southwest. Another crosses the hill to the south, but a chunk is washed out, too wide to jump across.\n\nThe bush seems to have been utterly demolished by the falling boulder. Nothing is left in the crack but a couple of splinters.\n\nAmong the hill's brush and scraggly trees, the tree that stands here stands alone. You might be able to get your arms around it, and you might not; it must reach nearly as high as the hilltop itself.\n\nRunoff water is trickling down the hill, concentrated here by some twist of geography. It puddles on the ledge, then begins pouring down the path to the northwest.\n\nThe fox appears under a nearby bush.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "animal protagonist", "built-in map", "child protagonist", "children", "cover art", "cute", "easy", "family", "kid-friendly", "kids", "map", "multiple protagonists", "nonhuman protagonist", "short", "siblings", "Spring Thing 2017", "Spring Thing Game", "Spring Thing Winner", "walkthrough" ]

[ 4, 2, 7, 1, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "It's a beautiful day. We were out playing together in the garden, but now it's time to do something else. We've still got a while before dinner. Maybe we should go to the fair!\n\nMother has rows of crystal carrots, cabbages, and lettuce growing here, with some thyme and rosemary growing up near the door leading into the palace to the north. A white picket fence surrounds the garden.\n\nA few dandelions are growing among the carrots and cabbages.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine us", "response": "We're both rabbits, of course.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "A rabbit, of course. Only modestly annoying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the carrots", "response": "They seem to be doing nicely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dandelions", "response": "Some ordinary dandelions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hop", "response": "We jump on the spot.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Mother has rows of crystal carrots, cabbages, and lettuce growing here, with some thyme and rosemary growing up near the door leading into the palace to the north. A white picket fence surrounds the garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crystal", "response": "Which do you mean, the crystal palace or the crystal vegetables?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the palace", "response": "We live in a palace made of crystal, of course.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fence", "response": "A well-kept fence around the garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "We are carrying:\nsome dandelions", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rosemary", "response": "They certainly smell good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the dandelions", "response": "Eh, it'd probably ruin your appetite for dinner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A well-stocked kitchen, with a table at one end and the oven at the other. A doorway leads east, and the garden's out to the south. Stairs also lead down into the basement.\n\nA basket of raspberry scones sits by the window.\n\nThe dirty dishes from lunch are on the counter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wash the dishes", "response": "You carefully wash the dishes. I dry them and put them away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scones", "response": "A wicker basket full of raspberry scones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "The table we eat our meals at.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the oven", "response": "A nice, solid oven.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dishes", "response": "Cleaned and put away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Some carpeted stairs lead up. The sitting room is to the east, and the kitchen's to the west. The front door leads out to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A cosy room with a shiny marble fireplace.\n\nMother's sitting in her chair by the fire, reading a book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Mother", "response": "Mother seems to be really into her book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about the book", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about mother's book which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about the fair", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about yourself", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about ourselves which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about the carrots", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the crystal vegetables which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fireplace", "response": "There's nothing like a fire to warm the place up. Sometimes we even toast marshmallows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "It's just the landing at the top of the stairs. Your room is north. My room is east. Our parents' room is west. And you can keep going up to get to the attic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "What d'ya want to go in there for? I'm all done cleaning my\nroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "It's bigger than my room, but mine has a better view. I keep mine neater, too.\n\nSome dirty clothes are lying on the floor near your bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search clothes", "response": "Mostly just rumpled, with a little mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wash clothes", "response": "Mother doesn't make us do our own laundry. At least not yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take clothes", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "The comforter has pictures of dragons on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "It's just the landing at the top of the stairs. Your room is north. My room is east. Our parents' room is west. And you can keep going up to get to the attic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Our parents' room. It has a big bed, some dressers, and a cool coiled rug.\n\nWe can see the laundry chute here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the clothes in the chute", "response": "There's a sliding sound, and the dirty clothes disappear from sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "A big comfy water bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rug", "response": "It changes color as it spirals in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dressers", "response": "Where our parents keep our clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "A dusty attic filled with boxes.\n\nNearly hidden among the boxes, a gold doubloon catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gold", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "A large gold coin with a picture of two dragons on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A well-stocked kitchen, with a table at one end and the oven at the other. A doorway leads east, and the garden's out to the south. Stairs also lead down into the basement.\n\nA basket of raspberry scones sits by the window.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "It's a bit dingy and dimly lit. A narrow opening leads south.\n\nYour dirty clothes are here, on top of the laundry pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A dark limestone cave. Stalactites periodically drip, making a cool kerplunk noise. An opening leads north into the basement.\n\nA ridge of stalagmites emerges from a stone mound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ridge", "response": "A mound with a ridge of stalagmites down its back. It almost looks like some sort of creature in the dim light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "A grand door leading into the palace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Mother calls after us. \"If you're going out, why don't you take the scones I baked to your grandmother? I'm sure she'd love to see you. I left them in the kitchen.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The Crystal Palace stands to the south, sparkling in the sunlight. The road runs north between a field of fire flowers to the east and a pasture to the west.\n\nA large cow is trying to graze by the side of the road.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cow", "response": "It has black and white spots and flicks its tail back and forth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask cow about the cow", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the large cow which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flowers", "response": "(looking east to Fiery Field)\n\nBright red and orange flowers that generate a searing flame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the flower", "response": "You don't see the fire flowers here. It was at Fiery Field.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A dense field of fire flowers stretches to the east. The road is back to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flower", "response": "Bright red and orange flowers that generate a searing flame.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Eh, it'd be rude to go tramping through someone else's pasture.\n\nFrom here, we can go north, south, and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A river flows quietly under this wooden bridge. The road continues north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the river", "response": "A cool, clear river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The road is surrounded on both sides by the pleasant woods. Greenbriars block the way east, but the woods are more open to the west. The path continues through the woods to the north. The bridge is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The road turns here, running west and south. Grandmother's house is to the north, with a tidy little garden in front.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the house", "response": "A charming little cottage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the garden", "response": "Petunias and begonias.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A warm, sunny room with a plush carpet. The walls are lined with bookshelves.\n\nGrandmother sits in a rocking chair, knitting something.\n\nIn a corner sits Grandmother's butter churn.\n\n\"Ah, it's good to see you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Grandmother", "response": "She's wearing her wire-frame glasses. They go well with her fur.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the basket to Grandmother", "response": "\"Ah, these look delicious! You're so thoughtful! Here, since you've come all this way, let me give you something. You should get yourself something at the fair.\"\nShe gives you a copper piece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the copper", "response": "A small copper coin with a picture of a rabbit on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the churn", "response": "An old wooden butter churn, well-used.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the knitting", "response": "The start of a sweater, perhaps?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandmother about knitting", "response": "(Grandmother about her knitting)\n\"I know you've been wanting another sweater.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandmother about the churn", "response": "(Grandmother about the butter churn)\n\"Ah, when I was young I used to have to churn milk into butter all the time.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandmother about the fair", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandmother about Grandmother", "response": "(Grandmother about Grandmother)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about Grandmother which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bookshelves", "response": "They contain all sorts of old books about history and such.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A warm, sunny room with a plush carpet. The walls are lined with bookshelves.\n\nGrandmother sits in a rocking chair, knitting something.\n\nIn a corner sits Grandmother's butter churn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the carpet", "response": "Light orange in color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "The only way to go is south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A dusty road leads east to west. Some pleasant-seeming woods lie to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A bustling fair filled with stalls and vendors of every kind. The flea market is to the west. The magic shop is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stalls", "response": "Merchants are selling everything from fish to figurines. We mostly just find the magic shop and flea market interesting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A shop full of all sorts of wondrous things.\n\nThe shopkeeper shows off her wares.\n\nA wooden bowl seems to be on sale.\n\n\"Ah, my favorite customers. You know, your friend Puff was here just the other day, telling me how much he likes his new bed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the shopkeeper about Puff", "response": "Which do you mean, the stone mound or our friend?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Friend", "response": "\"I do wonder how well it'll keep dry in that damp underground cave he lives in, but I'm sure he'll make it work. He is a magic dragon, after all.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bowl", "response": "A simple wooden bowl carved with designs of clouds and rain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the shopkeeper about Bowl", "response": "\"Ah, yes, the Bowl of Rain. Fill it with water whenever you want it to rain. Popular with farmers. Only one gold doubloon.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy Bowl", "response": "You give your gold doubloon to the shopkeeper in exchange for the bowl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "We are carrying:\nthe rain bowl (empty)\na copper piece\nsome dandelions", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A shop full of all sorts of wondrous things.\n\nThe shopkeeper shows off her wares.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at wares", "response": "All sorts of magical devices and supplies, most outside of our price range or interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A bustling fair filled with stalls and vendors of every kind. The flea market is to the west. The magic shop is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A crowded and busy section of the fair, with people buying and selling all sorts of strange things.\n\nA flea is here, selling an assortment of junk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the junk", "response": "The busy market, an old alarm clock, a dented brass horn, and some sealing wax catch your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flea", "response": "Somewhat larger than your average flea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clock", "response": "It's dented and seems to be stuck at 3:17.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask flea about the clock", "response": "The flea gives you the alarm clock in exchange for your copper piece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask flea about the horn", "response": "\"Two coppers, please.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The trees are rather open here, letting sunlight in. A mass of grape vine blocks the way west and south, however. You can see the road to the north or east.\n\nA large log lies here, one end covered in moss.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the log", "response": "An old tree that must've fallen a while ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take log", "response": "That's a bit heavy to lug around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Move log", "response": "It is fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vine", "response": "Densely-overgrown spiral vines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the dandelions to the cow", "response": "The cow munches down the dandelion greens happily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the cow about the dandelions", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the dandelions which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill Bowl", "response": "(from the river)\nWe fill the rain bowl with water from the river.\n\nIt's now drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The Crystal Palace stands to the south, sparkling in the sunlight. The road runs north between a field of fire flowers to the east and a pasture to the west.\n\nA large cow is trying to graze by the side of the road.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A dense field of fire flowers stretches to the east. The road is back to the west.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "From here, we can go east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The rain damps down the fire flowers enough that you manage to make it past them.\n\nThe field opens up into a grassier meadow. The flowers change to the north. You can still barely see the road to the west.\n\nAn old stone well sits here.\n\nA dented old pail sits a short way away from the well, apparently having recently been replaced.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pail", "response": "A dented tin pail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine well", "response": "A rope leads down into the dark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rope", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the rope", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The field opens up into a grassier meadow. The flowers change to the north. You can still barely see the road to the west.\n\nAn old stone well sits here.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "A calm field filled with scarlet poppies continues to the north. You can see the well to the south.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The rain doesn't seem to do much to block the smell of the flowers. Despite the wet, you still start falling asleep, and I have to drag you back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Empty Bowl", "response": "You pour out the water from the rain bowl.\n\nIt's no longer raining.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Milk cow", "response": "You fill the pail with milk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A warm, sunny room with a plush carpet. The walls are lined with bookshelves.\n\nGrandmother sits in a rocking chair, knitting something.\n\nIn a corner sits Grandmother's butter churn.\n\n\"Hello again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wash churn", "response": "That's fine the way it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the churn", "response": "What do you want to fill the butter churn from?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You make the butter", "response": "You pour the milk into the churn and get to work. Soon, we have a nice quantity of fresh butter.\n\n\"Oh, my! You're full of industry today!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the butter", "response": "(the fresh butter)\nFreshly-made butter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the butter", "response": "(the fresh butter)\nWe already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "We are carrying:\nsome fresh butter\na pail (empty)\nthe rain bowl (empty)\na copper piece", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandmother about the flea market", "response": "(Grandmother about the busy market)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the busy market which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandmother about the poppies", "response": "(Grandmother about the scarlet poppies)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the scarlet poppies which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Friend", "response": "(Grandmother about our friend)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about our friend which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the butter to Grandmother", "response": "(the fresh butter to Grandmother)\nGrandmother doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show butter to the flea", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the fresh butter which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the cow about the pasture", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the pasture which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about the friend puff", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about our friend which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about the clothes", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the dirty clothes which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A well-stocked kitchen, with a table at one end and the oven at the other. A doorway leads east, and the garden's out to the south. Stairs also lead down into the basement.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "It's a bit dingy and dimly lit. A narrow opening leads south.\n\nYour dirty clothes are here, on top of the laundry pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about Puff", "response": "(the stone mound about the stone mound)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the stone mound which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the pail about flower", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the butter in Bowl", "response": "The rain bowl is better suited for carrying liquids.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "We are carrying:\nsome fresh butter\na pail (empty)\nthe rain bowl (empty)\na copper piece", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clothes", "response": "Mother'll deal with washing those, silly. They're fine where they are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The road is surrounded on both sides by the pleasant woods. Greenbriars block the way east, but the woods are more open to the west. The path continues through the woods to the north. The bridge is to the south.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The trees are rather open here, letting sunlight in. A mass of grape vine blocks the way west and south, however. You can see the road to the north or east.\n\nA large log lies here, one end covered in moss.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the log", "response": "An old tree that must've fallen a while ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A river flows quietly under this wooden bridge. The road continues north and south.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Some carpeted stairs lead up. The sitting room is to the east, and the kitchen's to the west. The front door leads out to the north.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A well-stocked kitchen, with a table at one end and the oven at the other. A doorway leads east, and the garden's out to the south. Stairs also lead down into the basement.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Mother has rows of crystal carrots, cabbages, and lettuce growing here, with some thyme and rosemary growing up near the door leading into the palace to the north. A white picket fence surrounds the garden.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Empty Bowl", "response": "You pour out the water from the rain bowl.\n\nIt's no longer raining.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A well-stocked kitchen, with a table at one end and the oven at the other. A doorway leads east, and the garden's out to the south. Stairs also lead down into the basement.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "It's a bit dingy and dimly lit. A narrow opening leads south.\n\nYour dirty clothes are here, on top of the laundry pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "A dark limestone cave. Stalactites periodically drip, making a cool kerplunk noise. An opening leads north into the basement.\n\nA ridge of stalagmites emerges from a stone mound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wind clock", "response": "The clock makes a loud ringing noise, then falls silent.\n\nWith a sudden jerk, the stone mound moves! A rock shifts and transforms into the head of a dragon! Luckily, it's the friendly face of Puff the Magic Dragon. He blinks at you sleepily. \"Good morning.\"\n\nYou notice that Puff was sleeping on a pile of books. Behind Puff, you can now see a tunnel leading east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Puff", "response": "A large green dragon with shiny scales. He's resting on a pile of books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the bed", "response": "Which do you mean, your bed or the big bed?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about Puff", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about Puff the Magic Dragon)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about Puff the Magic Dragon which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the books", "response": "A huge pile of books of all kinds. A cookbook catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the cookbook", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about the cookbook)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the cookbook which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cookbook", "response": "\"Now, now, I'd hardly be a proper dragon if I just gave away my treasure willy-nilly. You'd have to give me something pretty fancy to replace it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "We are carrying:\nan old alarm clock\nsome fresh butter\na pail (empty)\nthe rain bowl (empty)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You walk a long way through the dark tunnel before emerging into sunlight.\n\nWe're on the floor of a deep sinkhole. Sunlight filters through trees and shrubs above. A tunnel leads west, and there's a smaller opening to the north.\n\nSome chickens sit here comfortably in a coop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chickens", "response": "Oh! One of them has laid an egg!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the egg", "response": "A fresh brown egg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the chickens about the egg", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the egg which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "We're on the floor of a deep sinkhole. Sunlight filters through trees and shrubs above. A tunnel leads west, and there's a smaller opening to the north.\n\nSome chickens sit here comfortably in a coop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This small cave is nice and cool, possibly because of all the ice flowers lining the walls. The only way out is back to the south.\n\nThe shelf closest to the ice flowers has gathered a quantity of snow.\n\nSome leftover oatmeal from the other day is here. It doesn't really look any more appetizing than it did then.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowers", "response": "They're pale blue flowers that radiate cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the flower", "response": "It's probably best to leave those here. I mean, having a secret refrigerator is pretty cool!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the snow", "response": "A wooden shelf for keeping frozen foods like ice cream on. Right now, it just has some snow that's accumulated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the snow", "response": "You grab some snow, but it melts in your hands. Maybe if you carried it in something?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the oatmeal", "response": "A bowl of leftover oatmeal. Or possibly wallpaper paste.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "This small cave is nice and cool, possibly because of all the ice flowers lining the walls. The only way out is back to the south.\n\nThe shelf closest to the ice flowers has gathered a quantity of snow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "We're on the floor of a deep sinkhole. Sunlight filters through trees and shrubs above. A tunnel leads west, and there's a smaller opening to the north.\n\nSome chickens sit here comfortably in a coop.\n\nIt's snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You walk a long way through the dark tunnel before emerging into a larger cave.\n\nA dark limestone cave. Stalactites periodically drip, making a cool kerplunk noise. An opening leads north into the basement. A tunnel leads east.\n\nPuff the Magic Dragon lies here comfortably on a pile of books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upwards", "response": "A well-stocked kitchen, with a table at one end and the oven at the other. A doorway leads east, and the garden's out to the south. Stairs also lead down into the basement.\n\nIt's snowing lightly outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "We can't go that way.\n\nFrom here, we can go south, east, and down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Some carpeted stairs lead up. The sitting room is to the east, and the kitchen's to the west. The front door leads out to the north.\n\nIt's snowing lightly outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The Crystal Palace stands to the south, sparkling in the sunlight. The road runs north between a field of fire flowers to the east and a pasture to the west.\n\nA large cow is trying to graze by the side of the road.\n\nIt's snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A dense field of fire flowers stretches to the east. The road is back to the west.\n\nIt's snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the water in Bowl", "response": "We fill the rain bowl with water from the river.\n\nIt's now drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The rain damps down the fire flowers enough that you manage to make it past them.\n\nThe field opens up into a grassier meadow. The flowers change to the north. You can still barely see the road to the west.\n\nAn old stone well sits here.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the snow in Bowl", "response": "We pour the snow from the pail into the rain bowl.\n\nIt's now snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A calm field filled with scarlet poppies continues to the north. You can see the well to the south.\n\nIt's snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The snow gathers on the poppies, blocking the dangerous scent. You manage make it past the flowers.\n\nA clump of trees grows here by the river. The poppy field is to the south.\n\nYou notice a small ginger plant growing near a tree.\n\nIt's snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plant", "response": "Some wild ginger root.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "A clump of trees grows here by the river. The poppy field is to the south.\n\nIt's snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trees", "response": "Some maples and a willow, offshoots of the wood that grows on the other side of the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the trees", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "A calm field filled with scarlet poppies continues to the north. You can see the well to the south.\n\nIt's snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The field opens up into a grassier meadow. The flowers change to the north. You can still barely see the road to the west.\n\nAn old stone well sits here.\n\nIt's snowing lightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put water in Bowl", "response": "We fill the rain bowl with water from the stone well.\n\nIt's now drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "A dense field of fire flowers stretches to the east. The road is back to the west.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "We are carrying:\nsome ginger\nthe leftover oatmeal\nan egg\nan old alarm clock\nsome fresh butter\na pail (full of snow)\nthe rain bowl (empty)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A dark limestone cave. Stalactites periodically drip, making a cool kerplunk noise. An opening leads north into the basement. A tunnel leads east.\n\nPuff the Magic Dragon lies here comfortably on a pile of books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the treasure", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the books", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about the pile of books)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the pile of books which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the book", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about the cookbook)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the cookbook which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "\"Now, now, I'd hardly be a proper dragon if I just gave away my treasure willy-nilly. You'd have to give me something pretty fancy to replace it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the horn", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about the dented brass horn)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the dented brass horn which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the wax", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about the sealing wax)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the sealing wax which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about Puff", "response": "Which do you mean, Puff the Magic Dragon or our friend?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Friend", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about our friend which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about Puff the Magic Dragon", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about Puff the Magic Dragon which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother for book", "response": "(Mother first taking mother's book)\nNow, now, there's no need to be bossy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother about the cookbook", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the cookbook which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "It's bigger than my room, but mine has a better view. I keep mine neater, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the flower", "response": "You don't see the ice flowers here. It was at Refrigerated Cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandmother for the book", "response": "(Grandmother first taking the bookshelves)\nNow, now, there's no need to be bossy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Grandmother about the book", "response": "(Grandmother about the bookshelves)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the bookshelves which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the bookshelves", "response": "They contain all sorts of old books about history and such.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the book", "response": "C'mon, it's a beautiful day. We can read another time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The road turns here, running west and south. Grandmother's house is to the north, with a tidy little garden in front.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "A warm, sunny room with a plush carpet. The walls are lined with bookshelves.\n\nGrandmother sits in a rocking chair, knitting something.\n\nIn a corner sits Grandmother's butter churn.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily outside.\n\n\"Hello again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A cosy room with a shiny marble fireplace.\n\nMother's sitting in her chair by the fire, reading a book.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the Mother about day", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Mother for the carrot", "response": "Mother isn't here. She's right here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the carrot", "response": "You don't see the crystal vegetables here. It was at Vegetable Garden.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wind clock", "response": "The clock makes a loud ringing noise, then falls silent.\n\"Now, now, no need to make a racket.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A dusty road leads east to west. Some pleasant-seeming woods lie to the south.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The trees are rather open here, letting sunlight in. A mass of grape vine blocks the way west and south, however. You can see the road to the north or east.\n\nA large log lies here, one end covered in moss.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the vine", "response": "Densely-overgrown spiral vines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the vine", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the vine", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A bustling fair filled with stalls and vendors of every kind. The flea market is to the west. The magic shop is to the south.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A shop full of all sorts of wondrous things.\n\nThe shopkeeper shows off her wares.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily outside.\n\n\"Welcome, welcome.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the shopkeeper about the book", "response": "(the cookbook)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the cookbook which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "From here, we can go south, east, and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "A crowded and busy section of the fair, with people buying and selling all sorts of strange things.\n\nA flea is here, selling an assortment of junk.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the junk", "response": "The busy market, a dented brass horn, and some sealing wax catch your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the wax", "response": "\"One silver, please.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the flea about the book", "response": "(the cookbook)\nWe can't reach into Damp Cave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the flea about the log", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the large log which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "The only way to go is east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shopkeeper", "response": "A well-dressed woman with a complicated hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the shopkeeper about Magic", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about Puff the Magic Dragon which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the shopkeeper about the flowers", "response": "Which do you mean, the ice flowers or the fire flowers?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Ice", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the ice flowers which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the shopkeeper about the poppies", "response": "You have a pleasant conversation about the scarlet poppies which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "We can't go that way.\n\nThe only way to go is north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "A bustling fair filled with stalls and vendors of every kind. The flea market is to the west. The magic shop is to the south.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "A dusty road leads east to west. Some pleasant-seeming woods lie to the south.\n\nIt's drizzling heavily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "We can't go that way.\n\nFrom here, we can go south, east, and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the log", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Climb log", "response": "Little is to be achieved by that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tree", "response": "Tall trees with healthy green leaves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn log", "response": "This dangerous act would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "We can't go that way.\n\nFrom here, we can go north, south, and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the greenbriars", "response": "Twisted vines with sharp thorns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "dirty clothes: Mother'll deal with washing those, silly. They're fine where they are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exits", "response": "From here, we can go south and up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "A dark limestone cave. Stalactites periodically drip, making a cool kerplunk noise. An opening leads north into the basement. A tunnel leads east.\n\nPuff the Magic Dragon lies here comfortably on a pile of books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stalactites", "response": "They hang tightly to the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about Mother", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about Mother)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about Mother which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about us", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about us)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about us which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the laundry", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about the laundry chute)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the laundry chute which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Puff about the shopkeeper", "response": "(Puff the Magic Dragon about the shopkeeper)\nYou have a pleasant conversation about the shopkeeper which fundamentally fails to be relevant.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A dark limestone cave. Stalactites periodically drip, making a cool kerplunk noise. An opening leads north into the basement. A tunnel leads east.\n\nPuff the Magic Dragon lies here comfortably on a pile of books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "cheapglulxe quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "animal protagonist", "bird protagonist", "Cinderella", "conversation", "cover art", "fairy tale", "I7 source available", "Inform 7", "nonhuman protagonist", "one-room", "parser", "single room", "strong NPCs" ]

[ 6, 38, 48, 4, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "The Prince sits awkwardly on the couch, holding his glass slipper and trying to keep it from crushing. Lucinda and Theodora have the ends of the same couch, and they are taking turns seeing who can bend lowest and show off the most cleavage; while the old lady, in her wing chair, carries on about nonsense. For instance:\n\n\"Do tell me about your father's health,\" she says, leaning toward the Prince. \"Is he still ailing? Has the Spanish doctor been able to do anything for him?\"\n\nThe Prince looks uncomfortable: this line of reason leads directly to the problem of heirs. \"I believe so, madam,\" he replies, with a bit of constraint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "It's hard to have a good look at the moment, but everything feels in order, properly preened, feathers lying as they ought.\n\n\"It's so fortunate,\" says the old lady. \"That you're of an age -- that is, that the King has been so blessed with an heir who can follow in his footsteps when the time comes, which we all hope will be--\"\n\nRealizing she has led herself into a diplomatic difficulty, she sighs. \"God has truly blessed our little kingdom.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are holding onto your perch with both claws.\n\n\"Now I have heard a rumor,\" says the old lady, pretending that this conversation topic just now occurred to her, rather than being the object of her determined pursuit for the last half hour. \"A rumor that you yourself were planning to wed, in the very near future.\"\n\nTheodora leans closer to the Prince, who tucks his hands more protectively around the slipper.\n\n\"There are a great many rumors,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the old lady about the rumors", "response": "You can only squawk things for everyone to hear.\n\n\"It's true, you know, that my father threw the ball in the hope that I would-- that is, that it would lead to a greater acquaintance--\" The Prince stops again, rattled, and glares down at the small shoe cradled in his hands. \"I had not been very attentive to ladies in my youth.\"\n\nThe old lady looks very strange at that remark. \"Well-- my dear boy--\" she begins. \"I am glad you feel comfortable-- that is, I will not mention-- if you feel you prefer--\"\n\nHe blinks thick girlish lashes, and you see why she is worried. \"No, I didn't mean that I have a preference for boys, madam,\" he remarks, more at his ease now that she is uncomfortable. \"Only that I have been very much occupied with other concerns, and not...\"\n\nHe gestures. The shoe almost slips off its pillow. He catches it just in time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shoe", "response": "It is very small for an adult woman's foot.\n\n\"I'm sure it's nothing surprising,\" remarks the old lady, \"if you didn't meet anyone at the ball that you felt immediately you could marry. Such short acquaintances... there's much more to an alliance than that. One must feel at ease with the family, for instance.\"\n\nThe Prince opens his mouth, then closes it again. \"I did meet someone,\" he admits. \"But I know nothing of her family. It hardly matters to me, however. It will be the woman who can wear this shoe.\"\n\nThe old woman laughs slightly. \"How beautifully romantic! But -- she didn't give you her name?\"\n\nThe Prince shakes his head, looking embarrassed again.\n\n\"...but you would recognize her, at least,\" the lady says, looking down carefully at her hands folded on her skirt. \"As soon as you saw her face--\"\n\n\"I can't be sure,\" the Prince replies.\n\nThere is a thick silence. The old lady frowns, suggesting very rapid and dangerous thought. Theodora lies back against the pillows, interested in the story and too stupid to realize it has to do with her. Lucinda-- but Lucinda's thoughts are always the hardest to read.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Lucinda", "response": "More compact than Theodora, and with more self-control.\n\n\"It wasn't a masked ball,\" the old lady says. \"It wasn't even badly lit. Your father did not stint on the candles at all.\"\n\nThe Prince opens his mouth.\n\n\"Oh, dear, dear, I am being odiously prying. I'm so sorry. Perhaps you met this young lady out on the terrace...\" She trails off, suggesting the very faintest disapproval of young ladies who linger on terraces, out of sight of chaperones, to hold conversations with Princes, and never tell their names.\n\n\"I met her in candlelight,\" says the Prince, goaded. \"But she left me at midnight.\"\n\nThe effect of this comment is like the shattering of glass: for a moment you wonder if he dropped the shoe...? No. It is merely that he has admitted, or near-as-admitted, that his chosen bride is one who appeared to him under a glamor, a magical enchantment. A crime punishable by death under his father's law.\n\nEveryone remains very very quiet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Lucinda about the old lady", "response": "You can only squawk things for everyone to hear.\n\n\"Maybe,\" Lucinda suggests, \"she thought it would be wrong to deceive you about what she was, and chose this way to, to make it known.\"\n\nA spark of comprehension comes into Theo's eyes. \"Yes,\" she says. \"She might have thought that-- I mean, I can imagine...\"\n\nThe old lady glares at her. The Prince looks back and forth, confused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand up", "response": "But you aren't in anything at the moment.\n\nTheodora leans closer to the Prince. \"I can go first, if you want,\" she says. Without any shyness, she lifts her skirt slightly and slips her feet out of her afternoon slippers, wiggling her feet on the soft carpet.\n\n\"So strange,\" she says, giggling. \"Taking off my shoes in the presence of a man!\"\n\n\"I won't tell anyone,\" the Prince assures her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "But the old lady has clipped your wings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shoe", "response": "It is very small for an adult woman's foot.\n\nThe old lady slips her hands into the pockets of her skirt and leans back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk", "response": "\"Awk!\" you squawk.\n\nThe Prince drops to kneel at Theo's feet. He looks dubiously at the shoe. \"Do you happen to know whether this goes on the left foot, or the right one?\" he asks. \"It's very--\"\n\n\"You can try it on both,\" says Theodora. \"If you want.\"\n\nHe begins to slip it onto her left foot. It won't go, not at all. \"That's certainly not it,\" he says, smiling at her quickly.\n\nShe twitches her skirt, giving him -- you imagine, since you are at the wrong angle -- a passing view of quite a lot more than her ankles. He blinks once but does not allow himself comment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You hop gracefully down to the other end of the perch.\n\n\"Right,\" he says. \"Other foot now.\" He slides the shoe on, and it does go considerably further. \"Tell me if I'm hurting you,\" he says.\n\n\"You're not, not at all,\" Theo assures him on a wince.\n\n\"Shoes are worn tight this year,\" puts in the old lady.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk no", "response": "\"No!\" you squawk. \"No no!\"\n\nLucinda frowns in your direction.\n\nThe Prince stops his work with the shoe. \"I can't -- this must not be --\"\n\n\"Oh, for pity's sake,\" says the old lady. \"You haven't the least idea how women dress. Let me.\" And she kneels at Theodora's feet, shooing the Prince aside, and gives a firm tap to the heel of the shoe; at which point it slides on.\n\n\"Bless me,\" she says.\n\nThe Prince is silent for a moment, looking at the shoe. \"It's you,\" he says. \"It's you, Theodora! Why didn't you tell me?\"\n\nThe old lady turns away, tucking something into her pocket: something glassy and glinting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk glass", "response": "\"Slipper!\" you screech. \"Wrong slipper! Wrong slipperslipper! In the pocket! Old lady!\" It's the most complicated thing you've had to say in years, and your head aches by the time you're done.\n\nThe Prince looks at you for a long moment, then turns to the old lady; who shrugs, as though to say that she knows the game is up. Fishing in her pocket she draws out the true slipper. \"The other one is only a little larger,\" she says, handing the real one over. \"Theodora's feet are quite dainty, on the whole.\"\n\n\"You are a harridan,\" says the Prince. \"A conniving, treacherous, beastly woman with no knowledge of love...\"\n\n\"You could still try the shoe on Lucinda,\" she suggests mildly.\n\nHe snorts. \"I thank you, I do not want to find my bride here. I imagine everyone under this roof is tainted with a little of the same venom.\"\n\n\"That is the truth,\" Lucinda murmurs; but he is already going, going, gone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "You do nothing. The old lady stares at you, and you stare back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk love", "response": "\"Love!\" you squawk.\n\nTheodora blows you a little kiss.\n\nThere is an odd silence, as though no one is sure what to do or say now. But it will break momentarily.\n\nThe Prince pulls Theodora toward him. \"You are a woman of unexpected depths,\" he says softly. \"All these years I have known you, seen you here and there, and thought that you were such a simple straightforward creature...\"\n\nShe blinks at him, then says, \"I hope you are not angry.\"\n\nHe laughs, and touches her cheek; and she kisses him.\n\nLucinda bites her lip. \"Well,\" says the old lady briskly, standing. \"How many unexpected turns life brings to us.\" And she pulls the bellpull with unnecessary force.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Prince", "response": "He's tolerably attractive, in his flightless way. It's hard not to pity him a little.\n\n\"It's so fortunate,\" says the old lady. \"That you're of an age -- that is, that the King has been so blessed with an heir who can follow in his footsteps when the time comes, which we all hope will be--\"\n\nRealizing she has led herself into a diplomatic difficulty, she sighs. \"God has truly blessed our little kingdom.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk death", "response": "\"Awwk!\" you squawk. \"Magic! Magic!\"\n\n\"Don't mind our parrot,\" says the lady, smiling at the Prince. \"It has very bad manners.\"\n\nThe Prince glances at you. \"I imagine any manners at all would be above average for a bird.\"\n\nLucinda smirks.\n\nThe Prince sighs. \"Yes,\" he says. \"The ball, I meant to tell you...\"\n\nHe stops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk lies", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"I'm sure it's nothing surprising,\" remarks the old lady, \"if you didn't meet anyone at the ball that you felt immediately you could marry. Such short acquaintances... there's much more to an alliance than that. One must feel at ease with the family, for instance.\"\n\nThe Prince opens his mouth, then closes it again. \"I did meet someone,\" he admits. \"But I know nothing of her family. It hardly matters to me, however. It will be the woman who can wear this shoe.\"\n\nThe old woman laughs slightly. \"How beautifully romantic! But -- she didn't give you her name?\"\n\nThe Prince shakes his head, looking embarrassed again.\n\n\"...but you would recognize her, at least,\" the lady says, looking down carefully at her hands folded on her skirt. \"As soon as you saw her face--\"\n\n\"I can't be sure,\" the Prince replies.\n\nThere is a thick silence. The old lady frowns, suggesting very rapid and dangerous thought. Theodora lies back against the pillows, interested in the story and too stupid to realize it has to do with her. Lucinda-- but Lucinda's thoughts are always the hardest to read.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the old lady", "response": "She looks plucked: thin neck with folds of skin exposed, nose beaky, lips white. Perhaps when her fortunes are mended her cosmetics too will improve.\n\n\"It wasn't a masked ball,\" the old lady says. \"It wasn't even badly lit. Your father did not stint on the candles at all.\"\n\nThe Prince opens his mouth.\n\n\"Oh, dear, dear, I am being odiously prying. I'm so sorry. Perhaps you met this young lady out on the terrace...\" She trails off, suggesting the very faintest disapproval of young ladies who linger on terraces, out of sight of chaperones, to hold conversations with Princes, and never tell their names.\n\n\"I met her in candlelight,\" says the Prince, goaded. \"But she left me at midnight.\"\n\nThe effect of this comment is like the shattering of glass: for a moment you wonder if he dropped the shoe...? No. It is merely that he has admitted, or near-as-admitted, that his chosen bride is one who appeared to him under a glamor, a magical enchantment. A crime punishable by death under his father's law.\n\nEveryone remains very very quiet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk glamor", "response": "\"Squawk!\" you squawk. \"Magic! Magic!\"\n\nThe Prince's eye goes to you. \"Your bird, madam, is freakishly percipient. Positively unnatural.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" she says. \"Though I promise you it arrived in that condition and was not made so by anyone in this house.\" She sighs. \"You are in a difficult situation,\" says the old lady. \"You are too intelligent not to have considered the problem thoroughly, and all the risks involved in choosing someone under those circumstances.\"\n\nLucinda's lips tighten. \"Magic is abhorrent to God,\" she says.\n\n\"That is certainly the opinion of some,\" the old lady agrees. \"I myself wonder whether He would have encompassed in His creation any power which He considered wholly evil. But that is a private philosophy, and does not excuse a violation of the law.\" She glances at the Prince. \"Forgive me: I stray from your problem.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk blasphemy", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"I have considered the problem,\" says the Prince. \"Very closely. I have not been able to sleep for considering it.\"\n\n\"Do you know,\" asks the old lady, \"why she...?\"\n\nThe Prince shakes his head. \"Until she fled I had no hint that she was not simply as she appeared.\"\n\n\"Extraordinarily beautiful, no doubt,\" remarks the old lady, with a hint of a curling smile; and Lucinda titters.\n\n\"And kind, and wise,\" the Prince replies, refusing to be drawn. \"Do you know whether magic can counterfeit those qualities as well?\"\n\n\"Wisdom rarely and kindness never at all,\" says the old lady.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk kindness", "response": "\"Awk! Kindness!\"\n\nSadly this produces no almonds for you.\n\n\"Maybe,\" Lucinda suggests, \"she thought it would be wrong to deceive you about what she was, and chose this way to, to make it known.\"\n\nA spark of comprehension comes into Theo's eyes. \"Yes,\" she says. \"She might have thought that-- I mean, I can imagine...\"\n\nThe old lady glares at her. The Prince looks back and forth, confused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk wisdom", "response": "\"Wisdom,\" you intone.\n\nNo one seems to think you know much about that.\n\nTheodora leans closer to the Prince. \"I can go first, if you want,\" she says. Without any shyness, she lifts her skirt slightly and slips her feet out of her afternoon slippers, wiggling her feet on the soft carpet.\n\n\"So strange,\" she says, giggling. \"Taking off my shoes in the presence of a man!\"\n\n\"I won't tell anyone,\" the Prince assures her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk gold digger", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\nThe old lady slips her hands into the pockets of her skirt and leans back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk pocket", "response": "\"Awwwk!\" you squawk. \"The shoe! The shoe!\"\n\n\"Yes,\" says Lucinda to you. \"You're very smart.\"\n\nThe Prince drops to kneel at Theo's feet. He looks dubiously at the shoe. \"Do you happen to know whether this goes on the left foot, or the right one?\" he asks. \"It's very--\"\n\n\"You can try it on both,\" says Theodora. \"If you want.\"\n\nHe begins to slip it onto her left foot. It won't go, not at all. \"That's certainly not it,\" he says, smiling at her quickly.\n\nShe twitches her skirt, giving him -- you imagine, since you are at the wrong angle -- a passing view of quite a lot more than her ankles. He blinks once but does not allow himself comment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk hussey", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"Right,\" he says. \"Other foot now.\" He slides the shoe on, and it does go considerably further. \"Tell me if I'm hurting you,\" he says.\n\n\"You're not, not at all,\" Theo assures him on a wince.\n\n\"Shoes are worn tight this year,\" puts in the old lady.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk pockets", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\nThe Prince stops his work with the shoe. \"I can't -- this must not be --\"\n\n\"Oh, for pity's sake,\" says the old lady. \"You haven't the least idea how women dress. Let me.\" And she kneels at Theodora's feet, shooing the Prince aside, and gives a firm tap to the heel of the shoe; at which point it slides on.\n\n\"Bless me,\" she says.\n\nThe Prince is silent for a moment, looking at the shoe. \"It's you,\" he says. \"It's you, Theodora! Why didn't you tell me?\"\n\nThe old lady turns away, tucking something into her pocket: something glassy and glinting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk lucinda", "response": "\"Lucinda!\" you squawk.\n\nTheodora blows you a little kiss.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk cheater", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\nThere is an odd silence, as though no one is sure what to do or say now. But it will break momentarily.\n\nThe Prince pulls Theodora toward him. \"You are a woman of unexpected depths,\" he says softly. \"All these years I have known you, seen you here and there, and thought that you were such a simple straightforward creature...\"\n\nShe blinks at him, then says, \"I hope you are not angry.\"\n\nHe laughs, and touches her cheek; and she kisses him.\n\nLucinda bites her lip. \"Well,\" says the old lady briskly, standing. \"How many unexpected turns life brings to us.\" And she pulls the bellpull with unnecessary force.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk cork nut", "response": "\"Almond!\" you hint. No one takes you up on it.\n\nThere is an odd silence, as though no one is sure what to do or say now. But it will break momentarily.\n\nThe Prince pulls Theodora toward him. \"You are a woman of unexpected depths,\" he says softly. \"All these years I have known you, seen you here and there, and thought that you were such a simple straightforward creature...\"\n\nShe blinks at him, then says, \"I hope you are not angry.\"\n\nHe laughs, and touches her cheek; and she kisses him.\n\nLucinda bites her lip. \"Well,\" says the old lady briskly, standing. \"How many unexpected turns life brings to us.\" And she pulls the bellpull with unnecessary force.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk alex", "response": "\"Awk!\" you squawk. \"Splendid bird!\"\n\n\"I suppose it wishes to advocate a greater interest in aviary concerns?\" the Prince asks, looking at you with curiosity.\n\n\"I wouldn't credit it with nearly that much intelligence,\" says the old lady. Witch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk witch", "response": "\"Squaw-awk!\" you squawk. \"Magic!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You can't escape your perch.\n\nThe Prince sighs. \"Yes,\" he says. \"The ball, I meant to tell you...\"\n\nHe stops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk ball", "response": "\"Squawk!\" you squawk. \"The ball!\"\n\n\"Don't mind our parrot,\" says the lady, smiling at the Prince. \"It has very bad manners.\"\n\nThe Prince glances at you. \"I imagine any manners at all would be above average for a bird.\"\n\nLucinda smirks.\n\n\"I'm sure it's nothing surprising,\" remarks the old lady, \"if you didn't meet anyone at the ball that you felt immediately you could marry. Such short acquaintances... there's much more to an alliance than that. One must feel at ease with the family, for instance.\"\n\nThe Prince opens his mouth, then closes it again. \"I did meet someone,\" he admits. \"But I know nothing of her family. It hardly matters to me, however. It will be the woman who can wear this shoe.\"\n\nThe old woman laughs slightly. \"How beautifully romantic! But -- she didn't give you her name?\"\n\nThe Prince shakes his head, looking embarrassed again.\n\n\"...but you would recognize her, at least,\" the lady says, looking down carefully at her hands folded on her skirt. \"As soon as you saw her face--\"\n\n\"I can't be sure,\" the Prince replies.\n\nThere is a thick silence. The old lady frowns, suggesting very rapid and dangerous thought. Theodora lies back against the pillows, interested in the story and too stupid to realize it has to do with her. Lucinda-- but Lucinda's thoughts are always the hardest to read.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk lucinda", "response": "\"Awk!\" you squawk. \"Lucinda!\"\n\n\"Yes, Parrot?\" asks Lucinda, looking up at you rather coldly. She's always made it clear she thinks you possessed. Theo is much nicer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You squawk theo", "response": "\"Awwk!\" you squawk. \"Theo!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk cinderella", "response": "\"Cinde--\"\n\n\"Ssh,\" says Lucinda, glaring at you.\n\n\"And I suppose this is a suitable young woman for -- that is, your father will think her a good mother to his grandchildren?\"\n\n\"I'm sure she comes of good family,\" says the Prince. \"Everything about her spoke of breeding.\"\n\nThe old lady exchanges a glance with Lucinda; two little smiles of quiet smugness, even if they neither of them would like to say why.\n\n\"Very appropriate,\" says the old lady.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk godmother", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"It's marvelous that you were so drawn to a young lady that you want to marry her even though you can't remember what she looks like,\" remarks the old woman.\n\nThe Prince glances at her sidelong, but she does not meet his eye.\n\n\"She was very pretty.\"\n\n\"As you recall,\" the old lady says.\n\n\"Yes, as I recall,\" he says. \"I wrote down some notes at the end of the evening. Everything I could remember about her, everything I recalled her saying to me. I believe I noted that she was pretty.\"\n\nThe old lady casts about for something to say to that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk notes", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"It wasn't a masked ball,\" the old lady says. \"It wasn't even badly lit. Your father did not stint on the candles at all.\"\n\nThe Prince opens his mouth.\n\n\"Oh, dear, dear, I am being odiously prying. I'm so sorry. Perhaps you met this young lady out on the terrace...\" She trails off, suggesting the very faintest disapproval of young ladies who linger on terraces, out of sight of chaperones, to hold conversations with Princes, and never tell their names.\n\n\"I met her in candlelight,\" says the Prince, goaded. \"But she left me at midnight.\"\n\nThe effect of this comment is like the shattering of glass: for a moment you wonder if he dropped the shoe...? No. It is merely that he has admitted, or near-as-admitted, that his chosen bride is one who appeared to him under a glamor, a magical enchantment. A crime punishable by death under his father's law.\n\nEveryone remains very very quiet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk pretty", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"Maybe,\" Lucinda suggests, \"she thought it would be wrong to deceive you about what she was, and chose this way to, to make it known.\"\n\nA spark of comprehension comes into Theo's eyes. \"Yes,\" she says. \"She might have thought that-- I mean, I can imagine...\"\n\nThe old lady glares at her. The Prince looks back and forth, confused.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Squawk old lady", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\nTheodora leans closer to the Prince. \"I can go first, if you want,\" she says. Without any shyness, she lifts her skirt slightly and slips her feet out of her afternoon slippers, wiggling her feet on the soft carpet.\n\n\"So strange,\" she says, giggling. \"Taking off my shoes in the presence of a man!\"\n\n\"I won't tell anyone,\" the Prince assures her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Related ideas flit through your brain: heirs and a marriage.\n\nThe old lady slips her hands into the pockets of her skirt and leans back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the heirs", "response": "\"Awk!\" you say. \"Heirs!\"\n\nBlood rushes up into the Prince's cheeks. He doesn't look your way.\n\nThe Prince drops to kneel at Theo's feet. He looks dubiously at the shoe. \"Do you happen to know whether this goes on the left foot, or the right one?\" he asks. \"It's very--\"\n\n\"You can try it on both,\" says Theodora. \"If you want.\"\n\nHe begins to slip it onto her left foot. It won't go, not at all. \"That's certainly not it,\" he says, smiling at her quickly.\n\nShe twitches her skirt, giving him -- you imagine, since you are at the wrong angle -- a passing view of quite a lot more than her ankles. He blinks once but does not allow himself comment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Related ideas flit through your brain: heirs and a marriage.\n\n\"Right,\" he says. \"Other foot now.\" He slides the shoe on, and it does go considerably further. \"Tell me if I'm hurting you,\" he says.\n\n\"You're not, not at all,\" Theo assures him on a wince.\n\n\"Shoes are worn tight this year,\" puts in the old lady.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the cinderella", "response": "\"Cinde--\"\n\n\"Ssh,\" says Lucinda, glaring at you.\n\nThe Prince stops his work with the shoe. \"I can't -- this must not be --\"\n\n\"Oh, for pity's sake,\" says the old lady. \"You haven't the least idea how women dress. Let me.\" And she kneels at Theodora's feet, shooing the Prince aside, and gives a firm tap to the heel of the shoe; at which point it slides on.\n\n\"Bless me,\" she says.\n\nThe Prince is silent for a moment, looking at the shoe. \"It's you,\" he says. \"It's you, Theodora! Why didn't you tell me?\"\n\nThe old lady turns away, tucking something into her pocket: something glassy and glinting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Related ideas flit through your brain: heirs and a marriage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the marriage", "response": "\"marriage!\" you say.\n\nTheodora blows you a little kiss.\n\nThere is an odd silence, as though no one is sure what to do or say now. But it will break momentarily.\n\nThe Prince pulls Theodora toward him. \"You are a woman of unexpected depths,\" he says softly. \"All these years I have known you, seen you here and there, and thought that you were such a simple straightforward creature...\"\n\nShe blinks at him, then says, \"I hope you are not angry.\"\n\nHe laughs, and touches her cheek; and she kisses him.\n\nLucinda bites her lip. \"Well,\" says the old lady briskly, standing. \"How many unexpected turns life brings to us.\" And she pulls the bellpull with unnecessary force.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Related ideas flit through your brain: heirs.\n\n\"It's so fortunate,\" says the old lady. \"That you're of an age -- that is, that the King has been so blessed with an heir who can follow in his footsteps when the time comes, which we all hope will be--\"\n\nRealizing she has led herself into a diplomatic difficulty, she sighs. \"God has truly blessed our little kingdom.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the heirs", "response": "\"Awwwk!\" you say. \"Heirs!\"\n\nBlood rushes up into the Prince's cheeks. He doesn't look your way.\n\n\"Now I have heard a rumor,\" says the old lady, pretending that this conversation topic just now occurred to her, rather than being the object of her determined pursuit for the last half hour. \"A rumor that you yourself were planning to wed, in the very near future.\"\n\nTheodora leans closer to the Prince, who tucks his hands more protectively around the slipper.\n\n\"There are a great many rumors,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the rumor", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"It's true, you know, that my father threw the ball in the hope that I would-- that is, that it would lead to a greater acquaintance--\" The Prince stops again, rattled, and glares down at the small shoe cradled in his hands. \"I had not been very attentive to ladies in my youth.\"\n\nThe old lady looks very strange at that remark. \"Well-- my dear boy--\" she begins. \"I am glad you feel comfortable-- that is, I will not mention-- if you feel you prefer--\"\n\nHe blinks thick girlish lashes, and you see why she is worried. \"No, I didn't mean that I have a preference for boys, madam,\" he remarks, more at his ease now that she is uncomfortable. \"Only that I have been very much occupied with other concerns, and not...\"\n\nHe gestures. The shoe almost slips off its pillow. He catches it just in time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Related ideas flit through your brain: heirs, a ball, Love and God.\n\n\"It's true, you know, that my father threw the ball in the hope that I would-- that is, that it would lead to a greater acquaintance--\" The Prince stops again, rattled, and glares down at the small shoe cradled in his hands. \"I had not been very attentive to ladies in my youth.\"\n\nThe old lady looks very strange at that remark. \"Well-- my dear boy--\" she begins. \"I am glad you feel comfortable-- that is, I will not mention-- if you feel you prefer--\"\n\nHe blinks thick girlish lashes, and you see why she is worried. \"No, I didn't mean that I have a preference for boys, madam,\" he remarks, more at his ease now that she is uncomfortable. \"Only that I have been very much occupied with other concerns, and not...\"\n\nHe gestures. The shoe almost slips off its pillow. He catches it just in time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say god", "response": "\"God!\" you exclaim. All eyes turn slowly towards you.\n\n\"Heavens,\" says the Prince mildly. \"A pet with theological leanings. How unusual. You're most fortunate in your domesticated animals, madam.\"\n\nThe old lady gives you a long, narrow-eyed look. Apparently she does not share the Prince's feelings on that topic.\n\n\"I'm sure it's nothing surprising,\" remarks the old lady, \"if you didn't meet anyone at the ball that you felt immediately you could marry. Such short acquaintances... there's much more to an alliance than that. One must feel at ease with the family, for instance.\"\n\nThe Prince opens his mouth, then closes it again. \"I did meet someone,\" he admits. \"But I know nothing of her family. It hardly matters to me, however. It will be the woman who can wear this shoe.\"\n\nThe old woman laughs slightly. \"How beautifully romantic! But -- she didn't give you her name?\"\n\nThe Prince shakes his head, looking embarrassed again.\n\n\"...but you would recognize her, at least,\" the lady says, looking down carefully at her hands folded on her skirt. \"As soon as you saw her face--\"\n\n\"I can't be sure,\" the Prince replies.\n\nThere is a thick silence. The old lady frowns, suggesting very rapid and dangerous thought. Theodora lies back against the pillows, interested in the story and too stupid to realize it has to do with her. Lucinda-- but Lucinda's thoughts are always the hardest to read.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Related ideas flit through your brain: a ball and Cinderella.\n\n\"It wasn't a masked ball,\" the old lady says. \"It wasn't even badly lit. Your father did not stint on the candles at all.\"\n\nThe Prince opens his mouth.\n\n\"Oh, dear, dear, I am being odiously prying. I'm so sorry. Perhaps you met this young lady out on the terrace...\" She trails off, suggesting the very faintest disapproval of young ladies who linger on terraces, out of sight of chaperones, to hold conversations with Princes, and never tell their names.\n\n\"I met her in candlelight,\" says the Prince, goaded. \"But she left me at midnight.\"\n\nThe effect of this comment is like the shattering of glass: for a moment you wonder if he dropped the shoe...? No. It is merely that he has admitted, or near-as-admitted, that his chosen bride is one who appeared to him under a glamor, a magical enchantment. A crime punishable by death under his father's law.\n\nEveryone remains very very quiet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say Cinderella", "response": "\"Awwk!\" you say. \"Cinderella!\"\n\nThere is the crack of a summoning: and there she stands, in the doorway, the secret daughter, the enchantress.\n\n\"May I present my third daughter,\" says the old lady, very dryly.\n\nThe Prince fumbles to his feet.\n\n\"Do you recognize her?\" the old lady asks.\n\n\"I-- we've never met,\" says the Prince, looking puzzled. \"I would have thought, as long as I have known your family, I would have--\"\n\n\"She likes to keep to herself. Except, of course, when she surprises us all, and goes out. Come in, Cinderella,\" says the lady. Lucinda squirms on the sofa.\n\nAnd in she walks, looking a little as though she has just been woken. The color rises in her cheeks when she looks at the Prince.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Love", "response": "\"Awwwk!\" you say. \"Love!\"\n\nThe Prince and Cinderella both look up at you. Cinderella puts one little finger to her lips, and winks, but you are afraid.\n\n\"I met someone at the ball,\" he says, after a minute. \"I felt for her. I thought to recognize her again by her shoe.\"\n\nCinderella tilts her head and looks at the shoe. \"If that is the only way you can identify her, I think you are better off avoiding such a wife, hm?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Related ideas flit through your brain: a marriage.\n\n\"I held the ball to look for someone to-- someone that I might marry,\" the Prince explains to Cinderella.\n\n\"I went looking for the same thing,\" she says, tilting her head, the way you would. \"And did you find what you were looking for?\"\n\n\"I am not sure,\" he says. \"Did you?\"\n\n\"He has not told me yet,\" Cinderella answers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the marriage", "response": "\"Awk!\" you say. \"The marriage!\"\n\n\"Don't mind our parrot,\" says the lady, smiling at the Prince. \"It has very bad manners.\"\n\nThe Prince glances at you. \"I imagine any manners at all would be above average for a bird.\"\n\nLucinda smirks.\n\nThe Prince frowns at Cinderella. \"I don't recall seeing you at the ball.\"\n\n\"No?\" she asks, with that funny triangular smile of hers. \"We were introduced. Perhaps I did not make an impression.\"\n\nHe frowns, and you can see that he is considering asking her to try the shoe. The silence is sharp. But he realizes -- or does he? -- that her face is wrong.\n\nShe waits.\n\nThe Prince frowns at Cinderella a little longer, then seems to reach some decision.\n\n\"This business of the shoe is nonsense,\" he remarks. \"I've no business to be choosing a wife so arbitrarily.\"\n\n\"And all your heirs would have such small feet,\" Theodora contributes.\n\n\"Yes, that would be-- terrible,\" the Prince says. \"In fact, I think--\" He turns and hurls the slipper against the wall, where it splinters into dozens of sparkling pieces. There is a great sigh in the room, and the old lady actually laughs.\n\nThe Prince's gaze lingers on Cinderella. She looks back at him, her chin tilted up. \"There are things my father need not know. Though I also would not lie to him about anything that I knew for certain.\"\n\n\"A commendable attitude,\" says the old lady briskly. \"And now I am having a brandy. Would anyone else care for a nip?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the shoe", "response": "\"Awwwk!\" you say. \"The shoe!\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You give the place a once-over with your right eye. Then you turn your head and look at everything through your left eye. It doesn't make any difference. The farther parts of the room remain out of focus.\n\nThe Prince frowns at Cinderella. \"I don't recall seeing you at the ball.\"\n\n\"No?\" she asks, with that funny triangular smile of hers. \"We were introduced. Perhaps I did not make an impression.\"\n\nHe frowns, and you can see that he is considering asking her to try the shoe. The silence is sharp. But he realizes -- or does he? -- that her face is wrong.\n\nShe waits.\n\nThe Prince frowns at Cinderella a little longer, then seems to reach some decision.\n\n\"This business of the shoe is nonsense,\" he remarks. \"I've no business to be choosing a wife so arbitrarily.\"\n\n\"And all your heirs would have such small feet,\" Theodora contributes.\n\n\"Yes, that would be-- terrible,\" the Prince says. \"In fact, I think--\" He turns and hurls the slipper against the wall, where it splinters into dozens of sparkling pieces. There is a great sigh in the room, and the old lady actually laughs.\n\nThe Prince's gaze lingers on Cinderella. She looks back at him, her chin tilted up. \"There are things my father need not know. Though I also would not lie to him about anything that I knew for certain.\"\n\n\"A commendable attitude,\" says the old lady briskly. \"And now I am having a brandy. Would anyone else care for a nip?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say yourself", "response": "\"Awwwk!\" you say. \"Pretty bird!\"\n\nCinderella smiles, and comes over to where you are, and pets the top of your head and whispers cossetting things in a language only you understand. Your heart is filled with sweetness.\n\nThe Prince frowns at Cinderella a little longer, then seems to reach some decision.\n\n\"This business of the shoe is nonsense,\" he remarks. \"I've no business to be choosing a wife so arbitrarily.\"\n\n\"And all your heirs would have such small feet,\" Theodora contributes.\n\n\"Yes, that would be-- terrible,\" the Prince says. \"In fact, I think--\" He turns and hurls the slipper against the wall, where it splinters into dozens of sparkling pieces. There is a great sigh in the room, and the old lady actually laughs.\n\nThe Prince's gaze lingers on Cinderella. She looks back at him, her chin tilted up. \"There are things my father need not know. Though I also would not lie to him about anything that I knew for certain.\"\n\n\"A commendable attitude,\" says the old lady briskly. \"And now I am having a brandy. Would anyone else care for a nip?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the babies", "response": "\"NEED BABIES,\" you say. \"Heirs to the kingdom, heirs to the kingdom!\"\n\nBlood rushes up into the Prince's cheeks. He doesn't look your way.\n\n\"It's so fortunate,\" says the old lady. \"That you're of an age -- that is, that the King has been so blessed with an heir who can follow in his footsteps when the time comes, which we all hope will be--\"\n\nRealizing she has led herself into a diplomatic difficulty, she sighs. \"God has truly blessed our little kingdom.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say god", "response": "\"God!\" you exclaim. All eyes turn slowly towards you.\n\n\"Heavens,\" says the Prince mildly. \"A pet with theological leanings. How unusual. You're most fortunate in your domesticated animals, madam.\"\n\nThe old lady gives you a long, narrow-eyed look. Apparently she does not share the Prince's feelings on that topic.\n\n\"Now I have heard a rumor,\" says the old lady, pretending that this conversation topic just now occurred to her, rather than being the object of her determined pursuit for the last half hour. \"A rumor that you yourself were planning to wed, in the very near future.\"\n\nTheodora leans closer to the Prince, who tucks his hands more protectively around the slipper.\n\n\"There are a great many rumors,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say gay", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"It's true, you know, that my father threw the ball in the hope that I would-- that is, that it would lead to a greater acquaintance--\" The Prince stops again, rattled, and glares down at the small shoe cradled in his hands. \"I had not been very attentive to ladies in my youth.\"\n\nThe old lady looks very strange at that remark. \"Well-- my dear boy--\" she begins. \"I am glad you feel comfortable-- that is, I will not mention-- if you feel you prefer--\"\n\nHe blinks thick girlish lashes, and you see why she is worried. \"No, I didn't mean that I have a preference for boys, madam,\" he remarks, more at his ease now that she is uncomfortable. \"Only that I have been very much occupied with other concerns, and not...\"\n\nHe gestures. The shoe almost slips off its pillow. He catches it just in time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say yourself", "response": "\"Awk!\" you say. \"Nice bird! Adorable bird!\"\n\n\"I suppose it wishes to advocate a greater interest in aviary concerns?\" the Prince asks, looking at you with curiosity.\n\n\"I wouldn't credit it with nearly that much intelligence,\" says the old lady. Witch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Related ideas flit through your brain: nothing.\n\nThere's an uncomfortable silence as everyone tries to think of a sensible direction for the conversation to take from here.\n\n\"Mm, we were speaking of ball,\" says a Prince.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say Cinderella", "response": "\"Awk!\" you say. \"Cinderella!\"\n\nThere is the crack of a summoning: and there she stands, in the doorway, the secret daughter, the enchantress.\n\n\"May I present my third daughter,\" says the old lady, very dryly.\n\nThe Prince fumbles to his feet.\n\n\"Do you recognize her?\" the old lady asks.\n\n\"I-- we've never met,\" says the Prince, looking puzzled. \"I would have thought, as long as I have known your family, I would have--\"\n\n\"She likes to keep to herself. Except, of course, when she surprises us all, and goes out. Come in, Cinderella,\" says the lady. Lucinda squirms on the sofa.\n\nAnd in she walks, looking a little as though she has just been woken. The color rises in her cheeks when she looks at the Prince.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the magic", "response": "\"Awwk!\" you say. \"Magic!\"\n\n\"Magic magic magic,\" you sing. \"Witch, enchantress...\"\n\nCinderella swallows, but the Prince shrugs impatiently. \"I had guessed as much,\" he says to you. And to her: \"I suppose you have looked-- another way than this?\"\n\nShe nods, and takes the glass slipper from his hand.\n\n\"Don't,\" says the old lady, reaching for her wrist; missing. \"They can't-- without proof they won't...\"\n\nCinderella puts it on, turning her ankle to watch the effect. The change sweeps up through her, making her taller, more perfect, almost inhumanly beautiful.\n\nThe Prince drops his hand.\n\n\"You need not have done that,\" he says. \"You could have broken it. Lied to me. Remained hidden.\" His jaw works. \"Didn't you understand that--\"\n\n\"She understands,\" says the old lady, rising from her chair. \"I told her. We all told her. She hoped that you would understand her secret but have the wit not to put her to the test.\" Her fingers dig into the chairback. \"I'm afraid the rest of us -- not being in love with you, you see -- we had less faith in your intuition. We thought perhaps we might distract you with one of the other two. One of the plainly... non-magical ones.\"\n\nThe Prince swallows. He is crying: not very man-like. \"You see I cannot conceal this; it would be treason, now I have seen this witchcraft with my own eyes...\"\n\nCinderella backs away. \"I have no truck with devils,\" she says. \"I was gifted or cursed in my nature, that is all. I cannot make it go away -- the power remains with me.\"\n\n\"It's true,\" says Lucinda. \"We poured holy water on her every day for a year.\"\n\n\"But the law,\" says the Prince.\n\n\"You're an idiot,\" says the old lady. \"You knew what you might find. If you loved her at all, you would not have come looking.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the shit", "response": "You squawk very loudly.\n\n\"If that happens again,\" says the old woman to you, \"we will sell you to the first man with an earring we can find.\"\n\nLucinda's cheeks go pink.\n\nThere is a long thoughtful silence. The Prince frowns at Cinderella. \"I don't recall seeing you at the ball.\"\n\n\"No?\" she asks, with that funny triangular smile of hers. \"We were introduced. Perhaps I did not make an impression.\"\n\nHe frowns, and you can see that he is considering asking her to try the shoe. The silence is sharp. But he realizes -- or does he? -- that her face is wrong.\n\nShe waits.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the sex", "response": "You stumble over that unfamiliar term and it just comes out a birdlike cry.\n\n\"Would you mind trying this shoe?\" the Prince asks, quite politely.\n\nShe nods, and takes the glass slipper from his hand.\n\n\"Don't,\" says the old lady, reaching for her wrist; missing. \"They can't-- without proof they won't...\"\n\nCinderella puts it on, turning her ankle to watch the effect. The change sweeps up through her, making her taller, more perfect, almost inhumanly beautiful.\n\nThe Prince drops his hand.\n\n\"You need not have done that,\" he says. \"You could have broken it. Lied to me. Remained hidden.\" His jaw works. \"Didn't you understand that--\"\n\n\"She understands,\" says the old lady, rising from her chair. \"I told her. We all told her. She hoped that you would understand her secret but have the wit not to put her to the test.\" Her fingers dig into the chairback. \"I'm afraid the rest of us -- not being in love with you, you see -- we had less faith in your intuition. We thought perhaps we might distract you with one of the other two. One of the plainly... non-magical ones.\"\n\nThe Prince swallows. He is crying: not very man-like. \"You see I cannot conceal this; it would be treason, now I have seen this witchcraft with my own eyes...\"\n\nCinderella backs away. \"I have no truck with devils,\" she says. \"I was gifted or cursed in my nature, that is all. I cannot make it go away -- the power remains with me.\"\n\n\"It's true,\" says Lucinda. \"We poured holy water on her every day for a year.\"\n\n\"But the law,\" says the Prince.\n\n\"You're an idiot,\" says the old lady. \"You knew what you might find. If you loved her at all, you would not have come looking.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say fuck", "response": "\"Right,\" says the old lady. And she rings for a servant to remove you from the room.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "cover art", "gender-neutral protagonist", "geocaching", "Inform 7", "park", "parser", "short", "walkthrough" ]

[ 1, 9, 8, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "The coordinates you have are incomplete. They only narrow it down to this general area. And, although it's not a big park, the thing you're looking for is very small. Probably.\n\nBetween the train tracks and the softball field there's barely any room for a trail, and the bike rack here is almost lost in the overgrowth. Presumably somebody will come by at some point and prune the bushes, but today you're the only one around.\n\nThe trail leads south from here.\n\nYou finish locking up your bike and shove the key in your pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Your \"hiking gear\" is indistinguishable from what you wear to class every day: jacket, T-shirt, whatever. Your shoes and jeans are basically clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paper", "response": "Scrawled in blue ink:\n\n41.664, -91.562\nblue box\n\nDuring the couple of days that you've been wondering about the origin of these clues, it has been difficult for you to distinguish your well-reasoned guesses from your hopeless delusions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rack", "response": "The bike rack is a frame of thick metal bars, and your bike is attached to it fairly securely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bike", "response": "Yours is not the most reliable bicycle in the world, but it's still more trustworthy than, say, a car. At least when your bike betrays you, it's fairly up-front about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lock", "response": "If you think about it, you could use a bike lock to lock up almost anything. But, now that you think about it, you can't think of anything else you need to lock up.\n\n> X TRAIN TRACKS\n\nThe tracks run along the crest of the hill, north to south, from who-knows-where to who-knows-where.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine trail", "response": "This stretch of the trail is still cheap asphalt, and there are a few loose chunks and potholes. Other trails in other parks are maintained better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "From far away comes a sound like thunder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gps", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\n> X SOFTBALL FIELD\n\nNobody's playing any softball today. It's too wet, or too cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The bike trail turns here, giving as wide a berth as possible to both the softball field and the woods. Cradled in the curve of the asphalt is a pool of rainwater.\n\nOn the other side of the trail, a low balance beam and an accompanying informative sign have been pounded into the ground, both encrusted with lichen. Behind them rise the woods to the south, as infinitely dense and expansive as they can manage given the limited space available.\n\nThe path leads north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sign", "response": "The sign describes some exercises for the athletically inclined to try out using the balance beam. You can imagine the Parks Department designing a dozen of these Fitness Stations, erecting this one, and then running out of funding. Or running out of enthusiasm.\n\nLooking around at the back and the base of the sign doesn't yield any clues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the beam", "response": "It's still kind of damp, but you could probably sit on it. You've sat on it before.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the beam", "response": "You take a seat and look up into the sky above the softball field.\n\n[...]\nThe bursts of lightning would hang in the air for unnatural lengths of time, so that you could make them out in great detail—but when the thunder finally came, it was very quiet.\n\nThis was two years ago. Maybe you were talking about something. No, you remember you were sitting in silence, watching the storm pass as if it were a parade.\n\nBut then she leaned over so that her head was on your right shoulder, which was unexpected, so you thought What do I do now? and\nthen you put your right arm around her. And she said \"Thank you,\" which at the time did not strike you as odd.\n\nEventually the rain was not falling far away: it was falling on the softball field, and then on the two of you, so you ran off.\n\n[...]\nYou stand up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "What a good idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pool", "response": "Standing water like this pool here is a vector for mosquitos. But it's probably too early for mosquitos anyway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump in the puddle", "response": "I only understood you as far as wanting to jump.\n\n> LOOK INTO POOL\n\nYou find nothing of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in POOL", "response": "That seems unnecessary.\n\n> TOUCH POOL\n\nThe pool of rainwater feels pretty normal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "That would be a bad idea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lichen", "response": "The lichen is growing mostly around the bases of the beam and the sign. It gets by where it can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the lichen", "response": "(first taking the lichen)\nEven if you could separate the lichen from the beams, you still wouldn't have much of a use for it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Here is where the curve of the outfield fence gets close to a small rise in the bike path. The incline is such that the asphalt is a little drier here than it is to the east or west.\n\nA lonely drinking fountain stands just off the path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fountain", "response": "The drinking fountain seems to be of an older vintage than the other park amenities. Maybe it's from the seventies.\n\nApparently it's activated by turning the knob on the side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the knob", "response": "It's made of scuffed stainless steel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "You take a sip from the fountain. The water is lukewarm, and it tastes like a piece of aluminum foil. Somehow you swallow it down.\n\nThe drinking fountain peters out and stops.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fence", "response": "The fence curves from over there in what you guess is left field to way over there in what would have to be right field. The nearest fence post is missing its cap thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hole", "response": "(the bike trail)\nThis stretch of the trail is still cheap asphalt, and there are a few loose chunks and potholes. Other trails in other parks are maintained better.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the circular hole", "response": "It's not a blue box, but it does seem like a good place to hide something.\n\nUnfortunately, there's nothing inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the fence", "response": "The softball field strikes you as a lousy place to continue your search.\n\nAlthough, if you did climb over the fence and head north, what would you find? Past the field there's the mall, and then the Interstate, and the hilly country where you fell off your bike that one time.\n\nAnd from the ultimate North come the cold winds that bring snow and make life miserable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the field", "response": "Nobody's playing any softball today. It's too wet, or too cold.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Here is where the curve of the outfield fence gets close to a small rise in the bike path. The incline is such that the asphalt is a little drier here than it is to the east or west.\n\nA lonely drinking fountain stands just off the path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The bike trail turns from west to south here, and outside the curve is a cozy bench, which for whatever reason sits facing east, toward the highway.\n\nNext to the bench is a chipped blue garbage can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search can", "response": "The garbage can is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bench", "response": "Downtown, the benches all have big uncomfortable armrests sticking out of them to discourage people from sleeping on them, but this one is just a plain old bench. There's a panel set into the back with a dedication.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the panel", "response": "She sounds nice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Your \"hiking gear\" is indistinguishable from what you wear to class every day: jacket, T-shirt, whatever. Your shoes and jeans are basically clean.\n\n> SIT ON BENCH\n\nYou take a seat on the bench and stare down at your feet.\n\n[...]\n\"Hey, so, we haven't talked in a while, and I was wondering what was going on with you. I mean, there was also something else I wanted to talk to you about, a specific issue, which is causing me some stress I guess. I'm walking in a straight line right now, and, unless something happens, I have to keep on walking in a straight line. This is how I'm dealing with my stress. But I thought maybe if I had a chance to talk to you then I could get some of this specific issue worked out. Sorry to bother you. Please call me back.\"\n\nAnd your legs kept on walking, in a straight line, up an unfamiliar street, with your head down, with your phone clenched in your fist. Time seemed to pass.\n\nThen you heard a clap of thunder, and it occurred to you that you should turn around and get home, but then it occurred to you that it was necessary to continue walking in a straight line.\n\nThere was a long flash of lightning, and as you finally looked up you realized you were in the cemetery, surrounded by gravestones, and up ahead was the statue of the Black Angel, perhaps facing you, perhaps with its back to you. Now it was dark.\n\nYour phone buzzed. She wasn't calling you back; she had sent a text message. And the text of the message was: \"?\"\n\n[...]\nYou blink a couple times and stand up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at highway", "response": "Herds of cars zoom left and right, and what's on the other side? East of here is just bars, and then frat houses, and on the very easternmost edge of your understanding of this city is a cemetery.\n\nBut mostly the East is full of huge crowds of people, who are unbearable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the paper", "response": "Scrawled in blue ink:\n\n41.664, -91.562\nblue box\n\nDuring the couple of days that you've been wondering about the origin of these clues, it has been difficult for you to distinguish your well-reasoned guesses from your hopeless delusions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Plugh", "response": "Nope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "It's theoretically possible to get across the highway here, but you have yet to see it done. The white lines of the crosswalk are more like a blueprint for an imaginary bridge.\n\nThe bike trail supposedly continues on the other side of the highway. Realistically, though, you can follow it north, or take a narrow, unpaved track between tufts of grass to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the grass", "response": "The grass still looks pretty damp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crosswalk", "response": "The crosswalk consists of a button that reads \"PUSH FOR WALK SIGNAL\", a pair of white lines across the highway, and a signal at the other end that will always, always say \"DON'T WALK\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the signal", "response": "The amber letters of the signal across the highway say \"DON'T WALK\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the button", "response": "Don't be brutish.\n\nAn incredibly loud motorcycle speeds by, and you lose your train of thought for a few seconds.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "It's theoretically possible to get across the highway here, but you have yet to see it done. The white lines of the crosswalk are more like a blueprint for an imaginary bridge.\n\nThe bike trail supposedly continues on the other side of the highway. Realistically, though, you can follow it north, or take a narrow, unpaved track between tufts of grass to the south.\n\nAn unseen crow emits a series of angry caws.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You find yourself in a low, damp area, partially hidden from the road above. A stream runs out of the woods here and noisily disappears into a grate under the highway.\n\nYou could scramble up north, to the bike path, or you could walk along the creek to the west.\n\nAn empty potato chip bag is stuck up against the grate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bag", "response": "The force of the water is pushing it up against the grate, but it's too big to squeeze through the holes. It's trapped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the grate", "response": "A metal frame blocks off the tunnel under the highway so that only the stream can get through. The words \"CITY WATER\" are embossed.\n\nCurrently the flow of the stream is impeded somewhat by the empty potato chip bag that's pressed up against the grate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bag", "response": "You fish out the bag and unclog the stream, which gurgles gratefully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the stream you're welcome", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the grate", "response": "The grate doesn't have any hinges. It's a permanent installation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bag", "response": "This bag is a damp, greasy mess, and to a certain extent you regret ever having pulled it out of the stream.\n\n> LOOK INSIDE BAG\n\nThere's nothing in there but the tiniest soggy crumbs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "It's theoretically possible to get across the highway here, but you have yet to see it done. The white lines of the crosswalk are more like a blueprint for an imaginary bridge.\n\nThe bike trail supposedly continues on the other side of the highway. Realistically, though, you can follow it north, or take a narrow, unpaved track between tufts of grass to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The bike trail turns from west to south here, and outside the curve is a cozy bench, which for whatever reason sits facing east, toward the highway.\n\nNext to the bench is a chipped blue garbage can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bag in the trash", "response": "You stuff the bag into the garbage, which is where it belongs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You find yourself in a low, damp area, partially hidden from the road above. The stream runs out of the woods here and noisily disappears into a grate under the highway.\n\nYou could scramble up north, to the bike path, or you could walk along the creek to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This clearing is bounded by a fallen log on the west side and a boulder on the other. The ground around the rock is littered with shards of glass; even with shoes on, you watch your steps carefully.\n\nThe path along the stream runs east and west, but there might also be a way north, through the vegetation that covers the hill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the glass", "response": "There are too many tiny pieces to try and clean up, even if you had gloves. The most you can do is try and kick them under the boulder, where they're less likely to get stepped on.\n\nAs you're kicking shards around, you notice one unbroken bottle.\n\nYou can hear some small mammals scratching around up in the trees.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bottle", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "The scratched blue glass is basically opaque, and the bottle is empty, but it feels heavier than it should. Apparently \"Schmetz\" is the name of the liquid that used to be inside of this. The labeling is not very specific about what \"Schmetz\" is.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look in the bottle", "response": "The blue bottle is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smash bottle", "response": "Your blows are ineffectual. It's a sturdy bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "The creek burbles peacefully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the log", "response": "You can imagine the scene easily: Drunk kids take a seat on the log; when their bottles are empty, they toss them at the boulder. Drunk kids don't care about getting their five cent deposit back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boulder", "response": "It's taller than you are, made from rough speckled black and white and grey stone, cut out of a mountain or something, back in the days of the caveman.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the boulder", "response": "You could probably manage that. Sure.\n\nYou jump up the lower side, get some traction with your shoes, and scramble up to the top of the boulder. You cross your legs and look out across the woods from your perch. The view isn't appreciably different.\n\nBut next to you, spraypainted in green on the rock, is a message:\nHEY.\n\nSo you say \"hey\" back, and then you slide back down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the log", "response": "You sit on the log and stare at the side of the boulder.\n\n[...]\nThen the song was over, and you could hear each other talk for a few seconds.\n\n\"Why aren't you drinking?\" she asked. A satisfactory answer did not spring to mind.\n\n\"Do you wanna dance?\"\n\n\"No.\"\n\nShe rolled her eyes. \"Well, you should try something new.\nIt's good to get out of your comfort zone.\"\n\n\"I should do things that I don't want to do, just because I don't want to do them?\" you tried to ask, but the music started up again.\n\n\"Well I'm gonna dance. Watch my drink!\" she shouted, and she ran off, so you sat and stared at her glass for a while.\n\n[...]\n\nYou allow yourself a heavy sigh before standing up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the boulder", "response": "It's not that you don't have the energy to climb the boulder again; it's just that it probably wouldn't be worth the effort.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hey", "response": "Hey yourself.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "This clearing is bounded by a fallen log on the west side and a boulder on the other. The ground around the rock is littered with shards of glass; even with shoes on, you watch your steps carefully.\n\nThe path along the stream runs east and west, but there might also be a way north, through the vegetation that covers the hill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vegetation", "response": "Who knows what kind of bushes these are. They're thick on the ground and impossible to walk through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stream", "response": "The stream is running swiftly and noisily right now, on account of last night's big storm. Most days it's probably not much of a stream at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Oh, this is creepy.\n\nThe bushes thin out near the top of the hill, and in the center of the clearing is a small tent.\n\nA large branch, apparently blown down by the storm, leans against the tent flap.\n\nReflecting on this detail, you conclude that this tent must be—is definitely, probably, unoccupied.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the branch", "response": "It's a big leafy one, obviously freshly snapped off its tree. Nobody could have gotten in or out since last night without moving it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the branch", "response": "You pull the branch off of the tent and, in an effort to command some control over your weird situation, toss it into the depths of the woods.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shout", "response": "Screaming into the outdoors is not as cathartic as you'd hoped. You feel vaguely embarrassed.\n\nA bird is singing an extremely repetitive song: \"Seeee-saw. Seeee-saw. Seeee-saw\". Over and over.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the tent", "response": "You pull open the tent flap, but then you let it fall again. For a second, everything seems very quiet.\n\nThe faint sound of a police siren reaches your ears from across town somewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the tent", "response": "With extreme gingerness, you unzip the flap, poke your head in, and enter the tent.\n\nA single beam of sunlight cuts through a hole in the western wall, illuminating a shambolic mass of books, notepads, and newspapers strewn across the floor. Everything is stained and crumpled by moisture to some degree.\n\nIn the center of it all is a low stool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the stool", "response": "You hunch down on the stool, and the sun gets in your eyes. Why didn't you bring your sunglasses?\n\nActually, this reminds you of something...\n\n[...]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the stool", "response": "Or not. You get off the stool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the books", "response": "It's creepy enough that you're inside of this tent at all. Physically messing with this person's stuff would be too gross.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "The books look like mostly poetry, written by guys with names like \"Blaise Fontanelle\". One is lying open to a page with a stanza circled:\n\nAy, que lo que soy siga existiendo y cesando de existir,\ny que mi obediencia se ordene con tales condiciones de\nhierro...\n\nAll right, then.\n\nA single beam of sunlight cuts through a hole in the western wall, illuminating a shambolic mass of books, notepads, and newspapers strewn across the floor. Everything is stained and crumpled by moisture to some degree.\n\nYou can see a stool here.\n\n> X NOTEPADS\n\nLet's see. Here's a really lousy drawing of a squirrel, here's a diagram of a triangle with some calculations next to it, and over here is an actual note, written in plain English.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the newspapers", "response": "They're local papers, going back a few months, based on what you can see without touching anything. Whoever owns this tent likes to do crosswords, but not Sudoku. Hmm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the note", "response": "Hey, that's a Stephen Malkmus song!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the triangle", "response": "Apparently it was necessary to prove some fact about the dimensions of this triangle—for a while, and then it wasn't so important anymore, since the author didn't finish the calculations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the squirrel", "response": "It's probably supposed to be a squirrel. Whatever it is, it isn't happy.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "A single beam of sunlight cuts through a hole in the western wall, illuminating a shambolic mass of books, notepads, and newspapers strewn across the floor. Everything is stained and crumpled by moisture to some degree.\n\nYou can see a stool here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stool", "response": "But that's someone else's stool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bottle on stool", "response": "You put the blue bottle on the stool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bottle", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "The bushes thin out near the top of the hill, and in the center of the clearing is a small tent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This clearing is bounded by a fallen log on the west side and a boulder on the other. The ground around the rock is littered with shards of glass; even with shoes on, you watch your steps carefully.\n\nThe path along the stream runs east and west, but there's also a way north, through the vegetation that covers the hill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The stream runs out of a culvert here, from beneath the hill and the train tracks to the west. The runoff from last night's storm flows swiftly and musically.\n\nThe ways out of the woods are north and east.\n\nA cricket hops out of your way and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the culvert", "response": "The circular tunnel is wide enough to handle the worst floods. You could probably walk through fairly comfortably.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You look ahead with a scrunched-up neck and fail to keep your shoes out of the water. The curved floor is harder to walk on than you would have thought.\n\nThe tunnel leads east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yell", "response": "Your screams echo up and down the tunnel, but then you're alone again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hey", "response": "Hey yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You make your uncomfortable way toward the light of day.\n\nSunlight finds you at the bottom of a rocky ditch. The stream flows noisily between the rocks, past your feet, and into the culvert to the east.\n\nMounted on a post stuck between the rocks is a small blue birdhouse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine birdhouse", "response": "You pull yourself out of the stream and approach the birdhouse.\n\nOn closer inspection, it can't really be a birdhouse. The circular entryway is blocked off on the inside; there's no way for any birds to get in.\n\nBased on the weathering of the paint, it might have been put up here a year or two ago, if you had to guess. A word is written in black magic marker across the back: WRENLAW. The plank on top is attached\nwith a hinge.\n\nThe circular entryway is blocked off on the inside; there's no way for any birds to get in.\n\nBased on the weathering of the paint, it might have been put up here a year or two ago, if you had to guess. A word is written in black magic marker across the back: WRENLAW. The plank on top is attached\nwith a hinge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You flip open the \"lid\" of the birdhouse, revealing a tiny screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the screwdriver", "response": "As you lift the screwdriver into the sunlight, your mind lurches with something like recognition—but the feeling passes, and you can't remember what it reminded you of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the screwdriver", "response": "It's thinner than a pen. The handle is blue; the Philips-head bit at the end is so tiny and delicate, it almost isn't there.\n\nYou have no idea why anyone would put this in a fake birdhouse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the house", "response": "The birdhouse is nailed to the post, and the post is stuck irrevocably in the rocks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the house", "response": "The imitation birdhouse is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close house", "response": "You close the imitation birdhouse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the water", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the water in the bottle", "response": "First you take the stream.\n\nThat's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the screwdriver in the bottle", "response": "If you ever got it in, would you be able to get it out?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "The scratched blue glass is basically opaque, and the bottle is empty, but it feels heavier than it should. Apparently \"Schmetz\" is the name of the liquid that used to be inside of this. The labeling is not very specific about what \"Schmetz\" is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink bottle", "response": "There might be a drop left. You lean back, invert the bottle over your mouth, and start shaking.\n\nA single drop falls out and on to your tongue. It burns.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Sunlight finds you at the bottom of a rocky ditch. The stream flows noisily between the rocks, past your feet, and into the culvert to the east.\n\nMounted on a post stuck between the rocks is a imitation birdhouse.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stagger eagerly toward familiar ground.\n\nThe stream runs out of a culvert here, from beneath the hill and the train tracks to the west. The runoff from last night's storm flows swiftly and musically.\n\nThe ways out of the woods are north and east.\n\nYour mouth still tastes nasty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This may have been a bad idea.\n\nWhat seemed at first to be a clear path has revealed itself as a clinging morass. The mud squeaks angrily every time you lift a foot; when you step down, it rises up to your ankles. Occasionally it slips beneath you, and you're forced to swing your arms in the air like an idiot to avoid falling on your face in the muck.\n\nThis viscous pit sits between two hills: one to the east, too thick with bushes to offer any purchase, and one to the west, which you happen to know has a railroad track running across the top. But the only clear ways out are north and south.\n\nSensing your approach, a sparrow chirps a warning and flies away.\n\nHalf-sunk in the mire is a styrofoam cooler.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cooler", "response": "The styrofoam walls are unnecessarily thick. Probably this was used to transport some live bait, or some beers, or first one and then the other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cooler", "response": "It's already open. You have no idea where the lid is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the cooler", "response": "The styrofoam cooler is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get cooler", "response": "The mud relinquishes its prize with a long, sickening squelch.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "What seemed at first to be a clear path has revealed itself as a clinging morass. The mud squeaks angrily every time you lift a foot; when you step down, it rises up to your ankles. Occasionally it slips beneath you, and you're forced to swing your arms in the air like an idiot to avoid falling on your face in the muck.\n\nThis viscous pit sits between two hills: one to the east, too thick with bushes to offer any purchase, and one to the west, which you happen to know has a railroad track running across the top. But the only clear ways out are north and south.\n\n> X ME\n\nYour \"hiking gear\" is indistinguishable from what you wear to class every day: jacket, T-shirt, whatever. Your shoes and jeans are wet, muddy, and covered in cockleburs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sign", "response": "The sign describes some exercises for the athletically inclined to try out using the balance beam. You can imagine the Parks Department designing a dozen of these Fitness Stations, erecting this one, and then running out of funding. Or running out of enthusiasm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Between the train tracks and the softball field there's barely any room for a trail, and the bike rack here is almost lost in the overgrowth. Presumably somebody will come by at some point and prune the bushes, but today you're the only one around.\n\nThe trail leads south from here.\n\nYour bike is still here, locked up to the bike rack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "What seemed at first to be a clear path has revealed itself as a clinging morass. The mud squeaks angrily every time you lift a foot; when you step down, it rises up to your ankles. Occasionally it slips beneath you, and you're forced to swing your arms in the air like an idiot to avoid falling on your face in the muck.\n\nThis viscous pit sits between two hills: one to the east, too thick with bushes to offer any purchase, and one to the west, which you happen to know has a railroad track running across the top. But the only clear ways out are north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "It occurs to you that you don't know for sure what's on the other side of the railroad tracks. Now is probably a good time to find out...\n\nYou stand on the train tracks and look down the hill. The sun is setting over a huge green golf course. There are no golfers; the fairways are spread out just for you, to lead you to whatever comes next.\n\nYou have no idea what's beyond this golf course. The West is a realm of potential because in the West is the freedom of the unknown, the undecided. You can be anyone, because nobody there knows who you are.\n\nYou could do it right now. You could walk down this hill and off of the map, into something brand new.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tracks", "response": "But not today. You have other things to take care of today.\n\nWhat seemed at first to be a clear path has revealed itself as a clinging morass. The mud squeaks angrily every time you lift a foot; when you step down, it rises up to your ankles. Occasionally it slips beneath you, and you're forced to swing your arms in the air like an idiot to avoid falling on your face in the muck.\n\nThis viscous pit sits between two hills: one to the east, too thick with bushes to offer any purchase, and one to the west, which you happen to know has a railroad track running across the top. But the only clear ways out are north and south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cockleburs", "response": "A bunch of those horrible barbed seed things are stuck to your jeans and your shoelaces. You'll have to pull them off when you get home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Keeping close to the eastern hill, you're able to grab onto some branches to keep your balance, but the bushes have grown too close together for you to climb up from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The bushes at the edge of the woods here are too thick to go tromping through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The stream runs out of a culvert here, from beneath the hill and the train tracks to the west. The runoff from last night's storm flows swiftly and musically.\n\nThe ways out of the woods are north and east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This clearing is bounded by a fallen log on the west side and a boulder on the other. The ground around the rock is littered with shards of glass; even with shoes on, you watch your steps carefully.\n\nThe path along the stream runs east and west, but there's also a way north, through the vegetation that covers the hill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The bushes thin out near the top of the hill, and in the center of the clearing is a small tent.\n\nA squirrel sees you and bolts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "A single beam of sunlight cuts through a hole in the western wall, illuminating a shambolic mass of books, notepads, and newspapers strewn across the floor. Everything is stained and crumpled by moisture to some degree.\n\nYou can see a stool here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stool", "response": "It doesn't look like anybody's ideal stool, but it's probably more comfortable than the floor.\n\n> SIT ON STOOL\n\nYou sit on the stool again, and the sun gets in your eyes again.\n\nOh! Now you remember!\n\n[...]\nYou picked up your sunglasses, and the right lens fell out. Jessica gasped.\n\n\"Is it broken?\" She was concerned, but she didn't lean over to look. You were able to notice this while appearing to give all your attention to your sunglasses.\n\n\"No, the screw is just loose.\" You sighed. \"I don't think I have a screwdriver for tiny sunglasses screws, is the thing.\"\n\nThe two of you contemplated this state of affairs in silence for a moment.\n\nThen Jessica spoke up. \"I wish I had a tiny screwdriver I could give you,\" she said (and she seemed much more broken up about it than you were), \"but I don't.\"\n\nYou grinned. \"What, are you trying to make this a metaphor for our relationship?\"\n\nShe smiled, and hugged you for the second-to-last time, and said, \"Sure. If you want.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Author", "response": "A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR:\n\nIn the interest of saving you some time, I'd like to let you know that the \"geocache\" described in this game does not exist, as far as I know.\n\nThank you for playing Wrenlaw.\n\nWould you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, QUIT, UNDO the last command, or read a note from the AUTHOR?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This clearing is bounded by a fallen log on the west side and a boulder on the other. The ground around the rock is littered with shards of glass; even with shoes on, you watch your steps carefully.\n\nThe path along the stream runs east and west, but there's also a way north, through the vegetation that covers the hill.\n\nSensing your approach, a sparrow chirps a warning and flies away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The stream runs out of a culvert here, from beneath the hill and the train tracks to the west. The runoff from last night's storm flows swiftly and musically.\n\nThe ways out of the woods are north and east.\n\nA cricket hops out of your way and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "What seemed at first to be a clear path has revealed itself as a clinging morass. The mud squeaks angrily every time you lift a foot; when you step down, it rises up to your ankles. Occasionally it slips beneath you, and you're forced to swing your arms in the air like an idiot to avoid falling on your face in the muck.\n\nThis viscous pit sits between two hills: one to the east, too thick with bushes to offer any purchase, and one to the west, which you happen to know has a railroad track running across the top. But the only clear ways out are north and south.\n\nA squirrel sees you and bolts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "No, not today. Someday. Eventually. Definitely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock bike", "response": "(with the bike key)\nAre you ready to take off, then? [y/n]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "You unlock your bike and hop on.\n\nThis is all really strange. Whose tent was that? Why did they abandon it? Why did you go inside?\n\nAt least the mystery of the blue box is solved, kind of. And now you have a tiny screwdriver, which is something you didn't have before.\n\nYou squint into the sun, and then you turn your bike down gentle hills toward home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This may have been a bad idea.\n\nWhat seemed at first to be a clear path has revealed itself as a clinging morass. The mud squeaks angrily every time you lift a foot; when you step down, it rises up to your ankles. Occasionally it slips beneath you, and you're forced to swing your arms in the air like an idiot to avoid falling on your face in the muck.\n\nThis viscous pit sits between two hills: one to the east, too thick with bushes to offer any purchase, and one to the west, which you happen to know has a railroad track running across the top. But the only clear ways out are north and south.\n\nHalf-sunk in the mire is a styrofoam cooler.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "It occurs to you that you don't know for sure what's on the other side of the railroad tracks. Now is probably a good time to find out...\n\nYou stand on the train tracks and look down the hill. The sun is setting over a huge green golf course. There are no golfers; the fairways are spread out just for you, to lead you to whatever comes next.\n\nYou have no idea what's beyond this golf course. The West is a realm of potential because in the West is the freedom of the unknown, the undecided. You can be anyone, because nobody there knows who you are.\n\nYou could do it right now. You could walk down this hill and off of the map, into something brand new.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "But not today. You have other things to take care of today.\n\nWhat seemed at first to be a clear path has revealed itself as a clinging morass. The mud squeaks angrily every time you lift a foot; when you step down, it rises up to your ankles. Occasionally it slips beneath you, and you're forced to swing your arms in the air like an idiot to avoid falling on your face in the muck.\n\nThis viscous pit sits between two hills: one to the east, too thick with bushes to offer any purchase, and one to the west, which you happen to know has a railroad track running across the top. But the only clear ways out are north and south.\n\nHalf-sunk in the mire is a styrofoam cooler.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "According to the signal across the road, it's not safe to cross now. Based on the speed of traffic, you have to agree.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You run", "response": "You'll have to say which compass direction to go in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "According to the signal across the road, it's not safe to cross now. Based on the speed of traffic, you have to agree.\n\nAn incredibly loud motorcycle speeds by, and you lose your train of thought for a few seconds.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump up and down a couple times. Get the blood flowing.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Slice of life" ]

[ "collaboration", "constrained writing", "cover art", "funny", "humor", "key-pooping creature", "parser", "Speed-IF >= 20", "SpeedIF", "SpeedIF April 2004", "TADS", "TADS 2", "walkthrough" ]

[ 1, 3, 4, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "Enter", "response": "But the damn thing's locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the thing", "response": "Which thing do you mean, the locking / unlocking thing, the manual insulating things, the short vegetable thing, or yourself?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Locking", "response": "I don't know how to open the locking / unlocking thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the structural thing", "response": "Within this wooden structural sheltering thing you know there to be essential things, including soft horizontal things to sleep upon, warming things and (most importantly) potable alcoholic things. Yet it is locked against you.\n\nAround its lower structural thing, interesting short vegetable things grow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have a locking / unlocking thing and manual insulating things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock thing with locking thing", "response": "Which thing do you mean, the locking / unlocking thing, the manual insulating things, the rustic wooden structural sheltering thing, the short vegetable thing, or yourself?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "All around you, mountainous unimplemented things rise up into the lofty heavenly unimplemented thing. Beneath your pedal things, the well-worn linear pedestrian unimplemented thing descends into the lower geographically interstitial unimplemented thing. Nestled among the rocky unimplemented things, a notably implemented rustic wooden structural sheltering thing awaits. It looks promisingly warm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the vegetable thing", "response": "You pluck a relatively small thing of the vegetable things. You now have a plucked herbal thing!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine hoary", "response": "A furry, cute yet dastardly sciuromorphic thing, which has lately swallowed your prized thing by which locked things are rendered unlocked (and vice versa). It is notably hoary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have manual insulating things (being worn) and a plucked herbal thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the herbal thing to the hoary thing", "response": "You seize the hoary sciuromorphic thing and force the herbal things into its oral thing! You hold its struggling furry corporeal thing against your corporeal thing and stroke its tubular peristaltic thing until it swallows. As you release it, it viciously bites your manual thing! Ow!\n\nThe hoary sciuromorphic thing trills nauseously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine hoary thing", "response": "A furry, cute yet dastardly sciuromorphic thing, which has lately swallowed your prized thing by which locked things are rendered unlocked (and vice versa). It is notably hoary.\n\nThe hoary sciuromorphic thing looks a little queasy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nEww! The hoary sciuromorphic thing violently defecates! Your locking / unlocking thing is returned, albeit somewhat icky!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the unlocking thing", "response": "You carefully retrieve the locking / unlocking thing, and thoughtfully wipe your manual insulating things on the hoary sciumorphic thing afterwards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the shelter thing with unlocking thing", "response": "Once again you insert the locking / unlocking thing into the thing which was made to accept it, and carefully unlock it. The flat wooden thing sealing the thing by which you may enter swings aside, its articulated metal things creaking!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Enter", "response": "An emotionally satisfying thing swells in your metaphysical personal thing as you stride through the thing for entering or exiting the rustic structural thing. You light and stoke the heating thing, crack open a glass thing containing alcholic things, kick off your pedal insulating things, collapse onto the horizontal soft thing and rest.\n\nAfter a relaxing slumbrous thing, you awake refreshed and warm, and continue merrily on your ambulatory thing through the mountainous things. Hooray, you win the interactive thing!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the hoary thing", "response": "The hoary sciuromorphic thing doesn't appear appetizing.\n\nThe hoary sciuromorphic thing looks a little queasy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nEww! The hoary sciuromorphic thing violently defecates! Your locking / unlocking thing is returned, albeit somewhat icky!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the unlocking thing", "response": "Blech! You got hoary sciuromorphic thing exretatory thing all over your manual things! But at least you got your locking / unlocking thing back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "An emotionally satisfying thing swells in your metaphysical personal thing as you stride through the thing for entering or exiting the rustic structural thing. You light and stoke the heating thing, crack open a glass thing containing alcholic things, kick off your pedal insulating things, collapse onto the horizontal soft thing and rest.\n\nYour osseous, somewhat stinky organic things are discovered many chronological things later. Infected sciuromorphic dentally piercing things work fast.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Zorkian", "Humor" ]

[ "cover art", "grue", "IF Competition 2003", "IFComp Game", "quotations", "TADS", "TADS 2", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2003", "XYZZY Best Individual PC" ]

[ 1, 12, 9, 3, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Alexander Pope once said, \"A little learning is a dangerous thing.\" I don't know what he meant by that. I've always thought learning was a good thing. Without it, you end up in some boring job that you hate. Maybe he was one of those Communists who wanted to give opium to the masses so they wouldn't notice they were bored and there was nothing to watch on TV. No, wait a minute... the Communists were against the Pope. Well, whatever.\n\nIt's time to go to work.\n\nBedroom, on the bed\nI'm lying in bed. It's warm and cosy here. In fact, this would be\na really nice place to stay if there weren't an alarm clock going off across the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the alarm clock", "response": "Without this, I don't know how I'd ever get up in the morning. It's currently buzzing loudly.\n\nThe alarm clock is buzzing loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "\"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.\" Well I think I look pretty good.\n\nThe alarm clock is buzzing loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I am empty-handed.\n\nThe alarm clock is buzzing loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get up", "response": "Okay, I'm no longer on the bed.\n\nThe alarm clock is buzzing loudly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the alarm clock", "response": "I turn off the alarm clock, and the buzzing stops. \"The rest is silence.\" Shakespeare.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "This is my bedroom - a great place to come back to at the end of\nthe day. A doorway leads west into the hallway. The dresser stands against one wall, and the bed on the opposite side. There's also a closet, an alarm clock on top of the dresser, a large pile of dirty clothes on the floor (hey, it's still a couple of weeks till my laundry day!), and a life-sized cutout of Leonard Nimoy. What can I say? It's home!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Nimoy", "response": "Mr. Spock was my hero when I was growing up. He had it all: strong, smart, always knew exactly what was going on. A lot like me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clothes", "response": "There is a large pile of dirty clothes on the floor. Well, maybe 'pile' isn't exactly the right word. They're sort of strewn all over the floor. Seems to me like a good place for them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dresser", "response": "It's an old but sturdy dresser. I've had it since I was a child.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the dresser", "response": "The dresser contains an assortment of clean clothing, ready to wear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear clothing", "response": "Which clothing do you mean, the dirty clothes, or the clean clothes?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean", "response": "What, all of it? Please be a little more specific about what I should wear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "clean clothes: I look through the drawers of the dresser, and pull out some clean clothing to wear: socks, underwear, and a pair of pants.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear socks and the underwear and the pants", "response": "clean socks: Okay, I'm now wearing the clean socks.\nclean underwear: Okay, I'm now wearing the clean underwear.\nclean pants: Okay, I'm now wearing the clean pants.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "This is my bedroom - a great place to come back to at the end of\nthe day. A doorway leads west into the hallway. The dresser stands against one wall, and the bed on the opposite side. There's also a closet, an alarm clock on top of the dresser, a large pile of dirty clothes on the floor (hey, it's still a couple of weeks till my laundry day!), and a life-sized cutout of Leonard Nimoy. What can I say? It's home!\nThe dresser seems to contain clean clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is a short hallway between my bedroom (to the east) and living room (to the west). The bathroom is north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "Living Room/Kitchen/Dining Room\nThis is the main living area of my apartment, a sort of combined living room, dining room, and kitchen. Furniture includes a table, several chairs, and a very comfy sofa. There's also a refrigerator, a stove, and a TV. The hallway is to the west, and the front door is south.\nSitting on the stove is a frying pan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pan", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), and a frying pan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is my bedroom - a great place to come back to at the end of\nthe day. A doorway leads west into the hallway. The dresser stands against one wall, and the bed on the opposite side. There's also a closet, an alarm clock on top of the dresser, a large pile of dirty clothes on the floor (hey, it's still a couple of weeks till my laundry day!), and a life-sized cutout of Leonard Nimoy. What can I say? It's home!\nThe dresser seems to contain clean clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take clean", "response": "Which clean do you mean, the clean pants, the clean socks, or the clean clothes?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the dresser", "response": "The dresser contains an assortment of clean clothing, ready to wear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the clothing", "response": "Which clothing do you mean, the dirty clothes, or the clean clothes?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dirty", "response": "There is a large pile of dirty clothes on the floor. Well, maybe 'pile' isn't exactly the right word. They're sort of strewn all over the floor. Seems to me like a good place for them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Nimoy", "response": "I think Leonard will be happier if I leave him where he is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), and a frying pan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "This is my bedroom - a great place to come back to at the end of\nthe day. A doorway leads west into the hallway. The dresser stands against one wall, and the bed on the opposite side. There's also a closet, an alarm clock on top of the dresser, a large pile of dirty clothes on the floor (hey, it's still a couple of weeks till my laundry day!), and a life-sized cutout of Leonard Nimoy. What can I say? It's home!\nThe dresser seems to contain clean clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "Opening the closet reveals a clean shirt and a pair of shoes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the shirt", "response": "(First taking the clean shirt)\nTaken. Okay, I'm now wearing the clean shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is a short hallway between my bedroom (to the east) and living room (to the west). The bathroom is north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is my bedroom - a great place to come back to at the end of\nthe day. A doorway leads west into the hallway. The dresser stands against one wall, and the bed on the opposite side. There's also a closet, an alarm clock on top of the dresser, a large pile of dirty clothes on the floor (hey, it's still a couple of weeks till my laundry day!), and a life-sized cutout of Leonard Nimoy. What can I say? It's home!\nThe dresser seems to contain clean clothes. The closet seems to contain a pair of shoes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear shoes", "response": "(First taking the pair of shoes)\nTaken. Okay, I'm now wearing the pair of shoes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the shoes", "response": "I'm already wearing the pair of shoes!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Living Room/Kitchen/Dining Room\nThis is the main living area of my apartment, a sort of combined living room, dining room, and kitchen. Furniture includes a table, several chairs, and a very comfy sofa. There's also a refrigerator, a stove, and a TV. The hallway is to the west, and the front door is south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "I'd really like to eat breakfast before I go to work...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "Opening the refrigerator reveals a carton of milk, a carton of orange juice, two eggs, and some bacon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bacon", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bacon in the pan", "response": "Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn", "response": "What do you want to turn?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), a clean shirt (being worn), and a pair of shoes (being worn).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the stove", "response": "Okay, it's now turned on. The strips of bacon sizzle and turn crispy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat bacon", "response": "Just as I'm about to start eating, I glance at the clock and notice that the bus will be here in three minutes. No time to eat now! I grab a pop-tart to eat on the bus instead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Just as I'm walking up to the door, I see the bus coming down the street. I grab my wallet, keys, and watch from the ledge by the door, throw on my coat, and dash outside as the bus is rolling up. I climb the steps, drop my money into the change-taking-machine (it makes a neat clinking noise as the coins roll down the slide), and take a seat near the front of the bus.\n\nI'm sitting on the bus, about four rows back. It's fairly crowded\n- lots of people going to work. Outside the window, I can see the city rolling past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine city", "response": "We're driving through a residential district.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), a clean shirt (being worn), a pair of shoes (being worn), a pop-tart, a coat (being worn), a wristwatch (being worn), a wallet, and keys. The coat pocket seems to contain a book of famous quotations.\n\nA woman starts to sit down next to me, but immediately stands up again and moves to another row, wrinkling her nose and sniffing loudly. Perhaps I should have taken a shower...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), a clean shirt (being worn), a pair of shoes (being worn), a pop-tart, a coat (being worn), a wristwatch (being worn), a wallet, and keys. The coat pocket seems to contain a book of famous quotations.\n\nDarn it. I really should have turned off the stove before I left.\nAnd closed the refrigerator. Oh well...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eathe pop-tart", "response": "That was delicious! And it's a good source of 7 vitamins and minerals!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "I'm sitting on the bus, about four rows back. It's fairly crowded\n- lots of people going to work. Outside the window, I can see the city rolling past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nAn old man in a battered raincoat sits down next to me. He has a chicken sitting on his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at chicken", "response": "The chicken is watching me in a way that makes me kind of uncomfortable. It's like she knows something that I don't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "I've heard that horses sleep standing up. I can't imagine how they're able to do that. I sure couldn't!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the chicken", "response": "The chicken gives me an ominous glance as if to say, \"Don't even think about it.\"\n\nThe old man sighs. \"It grieves me to see the changes taking place in this town,\" he remarks. It sounds like he's trying to start a conversation. It always weirds me out a bit when strangers do that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the town", "response": "He nods sadly. \"I have lived in this city for many years, and it saddens me to watch the gradual loss of everything that once defined its character. The decline of the railroads... the disappearance, one by one, of stores and restaurants I have known and loved... and now the old Frobworks factory... It makes me begin to feel old.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the frobworks", "response": "\"You have not heard? The Frobworks factory has been sold. There is a great deal of mystery surrounding the new owners.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the new owners", "response": "\"Their identities are a closely guarded secret. Few seem to know, and those who know will not say. There have, of course, been many rumors. But perhaps it is better if I do not speak of things which I do not actually know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the identities", "response": "He looks uncomfortable. \"There have been many things whispered. Unpleasant things. There are those who believe... But no, I will not say. Please understand, I know nothing except rumors and gossip, and those may be nothing more than the wild imaginings of an overactive mind.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the chicken", "response": "\"Dharmawati is resting at present. Perhaps in a little while she will feel ready to perform.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), a clean shirt (being worn), a pair of shoes (being worn), a coat (being worn), a wristwatch (being worn), a wallet, and keys. The coat pocket seems to contain a book of famous quotations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wallet", "response": "This was a birthday present a couple of years ago. It's a fairly ordinary leather wallet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wallet", "response": "In the wallet I see a driver's license and a five zorkmid bill.\n\nThe bus reaches my stop. The man with the chicken on his head stands up to let me out. As I squeeze past him, I feel him press something into my palm. I start to raise my hand to see what it is, but he stops me and shakes his head.\n\nThe chicken watches me as I leave the bus. All the way off, I can feel her eyes on the back of my neck.\n\nOnly when I'm standing on the sidewalk and the bus is pulling away do I look down to see what he has given me. It's a tiny flashlight, meant to go on a keychain. What on earth...? I look back to the bus, but it's already halfway down the block, and I can't see anything through the windows. All I can think of is a quote by Samuel Beckett: \"He brings light, as only the great dare to bring light, to the issueless predicament of existence.\"\n\nI head on into the factory. It's just a few minutes till starting time, so there are lots of other people arriving, punching timecards and heading to their stations. I still feel a bit weirded out by that guy on the bus, and the chicken on his head, and him giving me this flashlight like it was some big secret. I take a deep breath as I step out onto the factory floor. Everything's normal here, just like it always has been. I wave to some of the other guys as I walk past them toward my station, at the very start of the assembly line. It's good to be home.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "I'm standing at my station on the assembly line. A conveyor belt comes out of the wall to the east, and travels west down the middle of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the belt", "response": "The conveyor belt comes out of the wall to the east, and continues down the middle of the room. It is not currently moving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nA bell rings loudly. With a clanking sound, the conveyor belt comes to life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the belt", "response": "The conveyor belt comes out of the wall to the east, and continues down the middle of the room. It is currently moving.\n\nWith a quiet clop!, a green widget appears out of a chute in the wall and lands in front of me, just to the side of the conveyor belt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the widget on the belt", "response": "That isn't ready to go on the conveyor belt yet.\n\nClop! A red wodget appears out of the chute and lands beside the widget.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "green widget: Taken.\nred wodget: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the widget", "response": "It's a bright green widget, made of plastic, with a square peg sticking up out of it. I'm an expert with these things!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wodget", "response": "A red plastic wodget, with a square hole in the middle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put widget in the wodget", "response": "I fit the square peg of the green widget into the square hole of the red wodget. They snap together with a satisfying click! to form a perfect red-green widget-wodget complex, all ready to put on the conveyor belt for transport on to parts unknown! God, I love my job!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), a clean shirt (being worn), a pair of shoes (being worn), a coat (being worn), a wristwatch (being worn), a wallet, keys, a flashlight, and a widget-wodget complex. The coat pocket seems to contain a book of famous quotations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the complex on the belt", "response": "I put the widget-wodget complex on the conveyor belt, which carries it off down the line.\n\nClop! A green widget appears out of the chute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the widget", "response": "Taken.\n\nClop! A red wodget appears out of the chute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the widget in the wodget", "response": "Click! Another perfect widget-wodget complex, made and ready!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the complex on the belt", "response": "I put the widget-wodget complex on the conveyor belt, which carries it off down the line.\n\nClop! A blue widget appears out of the chute. Huh? Blue?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the blue", "response": "It looks just like every other widget I've ever seen... only totally different. Same plastic, same square peg... but it's blue!\n\nClop! A red wodget appears out of the chute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the widget in the wodget", "response": "Ralph Waldo Emerson said that a foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, and he knew what he was talking about. He knew that sometimes the widgets would be green, and sometimes they'd be blue.\nSo I've been doing this job for eight years, and every widget I've ever seen has been green. That doesn't mean the next one won't be blue. You've got to just take what comes and go on with your job. Emerson understood that, and that's why he was such a great genius.\n\nI fit the blue widget into the red wodget. They go together with an... almost satisfying... clack!.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the complex on the belt", "response": "I put the widget-wodget complex on the conveyor belt, which carries it off down the line.\n\nClop! A blue widget appears out of the chute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the widget", "response": "Taken.\n\nClop! A red wodget appears out of the chute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the widget in the wodget", "response": "I put the peg of the blue widget into the hole of the red wodget and... wait a minute! It won't go in! Hey - this wodget has a round hole! What's going on here? What the...! OK, wait... just a second... don't panic. Take a deep breath. It's going to be OK. Everything's going to be OK.\n\nFine, so things change. The world is like that. Widgets used to be green and now they're grue. I mean blue. And wodgets used to have square holes and now they have round ones. That's OK. Round is a fine shape for a hole. I just have to put the peg into it anyway.\n\nBut it won't fit! No! I can't deal with this! Someone must have made a mistake! They can't expect me to put these together. I just can't do it. No one can do it! I've got to find someone and tell them they've made a mistake. Then the holes will go back to being square, and everything will be OK again.\n\nThat's odd... something seems to be happening further down the assembly line. I can't tell what's going on, but there's a lot of shouting, and I can see people running. Suddenly there's a clank, and the conveyor belt comes to a stop!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Perhaps you're wondering how I know the conveyor belt runs east to west. Well, I checked. \"If you don't know where you're going, you probably won't get there.\" I don't know who said that. I saw it on a poster once. That very same day, I went out and got this super-durable, patent-pending outdoorsman's wrist-watch with built in compass, and since then I've always known exactly which way I was going.\n\nAs I walk along the conveyor belt, I can see the room emptying out fast. By the time I reach the far end, most of the workers are gone, and those who are left seem to be heading for the door. Mr. Biggs, the president of the factory, is standing next to the doorway and shouting at them. He almost looks like he's going to step in their way and try to block the exit, but he knows he'd get trampled if he tried.\n\nThis is the west end of the main floor of the factory. The\nconveyor belt passes down the length of the room and disappears into the wall to the west. A large set of double doors leads north to the lobby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Biggs", "response": "For some reason, Mr. Biggs always makes me think of a bulldog. He can't be much more than five feet tall, and you always feel like he's about to attack you. No one messes with Mr. Biggs. I mean no one.\n\nMr. Biggs glances up at me. \"Get back to work!\" he shouts.\n\"There's absolutely nothing to be alarmed about! The company has some new owners, and they're just making a few changes. That's all there is...\" He breaks off and lunges at the door in a desperate attempt to keep the last of the workers from getting away. He stumbles over his own feet, barely avoids falling, and collides with the wall. \"Come BACK here!\" he shouts, dashing out the door after them. It swings shut behind him, and the room becomes almost silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the lobby of the factory building. There's a potted plant sitting in the corner, only I looked at it closely once and found that it's made of plastic. There are doors going north to the parking lot and south to the main floor of the factory. There are hallways to east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plant", "response": "I guess a plant that's made of plastic is a lot easier to take care of than a regular one. You never have to water it, just dust it once in a while, and it doesn't get sick or turn brown or anything like that, though if someone fell on it and broke it or something it wouldn't grow back the way a regular plant would. But then I guess you could just buy a new one. I wonder what company makes these things. If I ever leave this place, I ought to go and work for them. It sounds like a great business to be in!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I know Mr. Biggs said there was nothing to worry about, but I'm not sure I believe him. I never trust anything the first time someone says it. I learned that from a guy called Lewis Carroll. He said, \"What I tell you three times is true.\" What he meant is that everyone says a lot of stuff. Some of it's true and some of it isn't. If you want to really know, you've got to ask them again to make sure they mean what they say. Otherwise, they might just be saying it and not really mean it.\n\nI'm standing in a hallway that runs between the lobby, to the west, and the end of the building, to the east. North is the door to Mr. Biggs office, which is currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Perhaps I should knock on the door before going in? I don't want to upset Mr. Biggs by just barging in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on door", "response": "I knock carefully on the door. A muffled voice inside says, \"Yes? Come in.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "(Opening the door)\nMr. Biggs' Office\nThis has got to be one of the most boring offices in the world. No pictures on the walls, no fake plants, nothing. Just a big desk in the middle of the room. There aren't even any chairs, except the one Mr. Biggs sits in, so you have to stand up the whole time you're talking to him. You'd think he didn't like having people come see him or something. The office door, to the south, is open.\n\nMr. Biggs is sitting behind the desk, looking at me impatiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Biggs", "response": "What do you want to ask it about?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Owners", "response": "\"You stay out of this!\" he snarls at me, shooting up out of the chair like he's going to attack. Then he seems to catch himself. \"Um, the new owners wish to remain, um, anonymous. Out of respect for their...um...wishes, I cannot say more.\"\n\nHe sighs and puts down the piece of paper he was reading. \"Yes Smithers? What is it you want?\" Smithers?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Mr. Biggs' Office\nThis has got to be one of the most boring offices in the world. No pictures on the walls, no fake plants, nothing. Just a big desk in the middle of the room. There aren't even any chairs, except the one Mr. Biggs sits in, so you have to stand up the whole time you're talking to him. You'd think he didn't like having people come see him or something. The office door, to the south, is open.\n\nMr. Biggs is sitting behind the desk, looking at me impatiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "It's a huge wooden desk, with a couple of drawers on one side, and enough space underneath that you could practically sleep under it. A big black telephone sits on one side. Some papers are spread out over the desk, like Mr. Biggs was looking at them.\n\nIf I'm going to ask him about the widgets, I'd better go ahead and do it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about the widgets", "response": "(Mr. Biggs)\n\"The world changes, Smithers. I know you're very attached to your widgets, but it's time to move this factory into the modern age. It's got new owners now, and they're bringing in a whole new way of doing business.\" He kind of scrunches up his face. I think it's supposed to be a smile, only he doesn't know how. \"We're both very lucky to be here. This is a glorious age we're living in! Infinite opportunity for men with the courage and intelligence to recognize it and do what must be done! Men like me! And, uh... you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask about Biggs", "response": "(Mr. Biggs)\nHe sighs. \"Look Smithers, I'm very busy right now. Could we please discuss this another time?\"\n\nThe telephone rings. Mr. Biggs' face turns pale. \"Get out! Now!\" he snaps at me. He almost looks like he's going to be sick.\n\n\"Yes, Sir. Thank you,\" I say, moving toward the door. \"By the way, my name isn't...\"\n\n\"I said get OUT!\" he shouts, leaping from his chair as the phone rings a second time. He shoves me out of the room and slams the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen at the door", "response": "I put my ear to the door to listen. I can't make out exactly what he's talking about, but he sounds upset. I hear him say, \"Yes sir,\" several times, and then, \"But it's not ready yet! We need more time to test it first!\" Then there's a long silence. It goes on so long I've almost decided that he must have hung up, when I hear him say very quietly, \"Yes sir. I understand.\" He sounds terrified.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is the east end of the hallway. There's a staircase going\ndown, and a doorway leading east to the loading dock.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The stairs come to an end at a closed door leading north, which\nsays \"Research\" on it. There's a black plastic thing sticking out of the wall next to it, which looks a lot like the thing you swipe your credit card through at the grocery.\n\nIt's funny, but you know something? In all the years I've worked at the factory, I've never been here before. Usually, I just go straight to my place on the assembly line. A few times, I've been sent to the loading dock to do things, but I've always just gone right past the stairs and never thought what was at the bottom. Well, now that I'm here, I guess it's not real interesting. I do wonder what's behind that door, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), a clean shirt (being worn), a pair of shoes (being worn), a coat (being worn), a wristwatch (being worn), a wallet, keys, a flashlight, and a blue widget. The coat pocket seems to contain a book of famous quotations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wallet", "response": "This was a birthday present a couple of years ago. It's a fairly ordinary leather wallet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "In the wallet I see a driver's license and a five zorkmid bill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the license", "response": "I hardly ever drive anywhere, but it's good to have a license, just in case. I think the picture on it makes me look kind of goofy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the doorway", "response": "A pair of swinging doors lead out to the loading dock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the staircase", "response": "It's an ordinary looking staircase. I'd tell you more about it, but really, I can't think of anything else to stay. You know, it's a staircase. Going down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is the loading dock for the factory. It's a big old cement platform that trucks can pull up to and load or unload stuff for the factory. I guess that's why they call it a \"loading\" dock, huh? Actually, I don't know why they call it that. It hasn't got anything to do with boats, so it isn't a dock, is it? Maybe there used to be a river here or something, and when it dried up, they just started using trucks instead of boats, but everyone still calls it a dock because that's what they're used to. I guess that would make sense.\n\nAnyway, there are no trucks or boats here right now. There are a lot of crates piled up here, though. There's also a door going west into the factory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine crates", "response": "There are a whole bunch of wooden crates stacked up on one side of the loading dock. They all have \"USDA GRADE A\" stamped on them in big black letters. No idea what that means. They also have arrows pointing downward that say, \"This Way Up\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search them", "response": "crates: I find nothing of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open them", "response": "crates: There's no way I could open these crates without a crowbar. They're nailed shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is the east end of the hallway. There's a staircase going\ndown, and a doorway leading east to the loading dock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "I'm standing in a hallway that runs between the lobby, to the west, and the end of the building, to the east. North is the door to Mr. Biggs office, which is currently closed.\n\nMr. Biggs still seems to be talking on the phone. I can hear his voice coming faintly through the door. He sounds upset.\n\nMr. Biggs still seems to be talking on the phone. I can hear his voice coming faintly through the door. He sounds upset.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen at the door", "response": "There's another long pause, and then I hear Mr. Biggs say, \"It will be done right away. Exactly as you describe.\" There's a click as he hangs up the phone, and I hear him getting up from the desk. I quickly move away from the door, since I don't want to get caught listening to him. A moment later, the door opens and he comes out. I'm afraid he'll ask me what I'm doing hanging out in the hallway, but he doesn't even seem to see me. His face is practically white, and as he pulls the door closed behind him, it almost looks like his hand is shaking. He heads east along the hallway, and disappears down the stairs at the end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is the lobby of the factory building. There's a potted plant sitting in the corner, only I looked at it closely once and found that it's made of plastic. There are doors going north to the parking lot and south to the main floor of the factory. There are hallways to east and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is a short hallway connecting the lobby (to the east), the cafeteria (to the west), and the restroom (to the north). There's also a closet here where Rufus, the janitor, keeps his cleaning things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at closet", "response": "The closet is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opening the closet reveals a broom and a uniform.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the broom", "response": "It's an old broom that Rufus uses for cleaning the cafeteria. The word \"Cleansweep\" is printed on the handle in silver letters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the uniform", "response": "Why would I want to put on Rufus' uniform? I'm not a janitor!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is the restroom for all of us who work here. It's pretty\nbasic: just a sink and a stall with a toilet. But it does the job pretty well.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "It's white and shiny and hard, just like most sinks. Rufus does a nice job of keeping it clean, I guess, but somehow I don't feel like it has much character.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stall", "response": "It's a toilet. What else is there to say about it?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This is a short hallway connecting the lobby (to the east), the cafeteria (to the west), and the restroom (to the north). There's also a closet here where Rufus, the janitor, keeps his cleaning things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is where we all eat lunch. Except Mr. Biggs, who I guess\nmust bring his own lunch since I never see him here. There's a bunch of tables and chairs here, and a long window that you walk past to pick up your food. The window is closed right now, since it won't be lunch time for a while yet.\nYou see a newspaper here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine newspaper", "response": "It's a copy of The Daily Wombat that someone left in the cafeteria.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "Hey! There's an article about the Frobworks plant on the front page! It says... hold on a minute while I read this... It's talking about the factory being sold. It says there's some group of foreign investors who are buying it, but they don't want anyone to know who they are. Something about a holding company, whatever that is. And a lot of people are wondering what they plan to do with it...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "I flip through the rest of the newspaper, but the article about the Frobworks plant is the only one that looks really interesting. Except for an article about how to raise orchids, and it says that if you know what you're doing, you can earn hundreds of dollars just by having a bunch of plants sitting around your house. Maybe I should try that out. And there's an article here about how clear plastic bathing suits are going to be the big new fashion this summer, and everyone on the beach out in California will be wearing them. That sounds kind of uncomfortable, but I guess if that's what everyone else is doing...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "I don't see anything else interesting. Just a lot of boring stories about wars and things like that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "It's a big opening in the wall between the cafeteria and the kitchen, where they make the food. It's closed right now, since they aren't serving lunch yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "I'm standing in a hallway that runs between the lobby, to the west, and the end of the building, to the east. North is the door to Mr. Biggs office, which is currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "(Opening the door)\nMr. Biggs' Office\nThis has got to be one of the most boring offices in the world. No pictures on the walls, no fake plants, nothing. Just a big desk in the middle of the room. There aren't even any chairs, except the one Mr. Biggs sits in, so you have to stand up the whole time you're talking to him. You'd think he didn't like having people come see him or something. The office door, to the south, is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "It's a huge wooden desk, with a couple of drawers on one side, and enough space underneath that you could practically sleep under it. A big black telephone sits on one side. Some papers are spread out over the desk, like Mr. Biggs was looking at them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "It looks like some sort of a letter. The letterhead at the top says it's from 'Grue Industries, Incorporated', whatever that is. I try to read through the first few pages, but it's pretty hard to understand. Whoever wrote it likes to use lots of big words, things like \"capital depreciation\" and \"market penetration\" and \"speculative revenue projections\". I think they're unhappy because the factory isn't making as much money as they want it to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the telephone", "response": "You know how in movies, the President of the United States always has this big telephone that sits on his desk, and when it rings there's a light that flashes on it, and you know something terrible has just happened? That's what this telephone looks like. Like a phone you really don't want to get a call on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the drawers", "response": "They're big wooden drawers, exactly the kind you would expect to find in a big wooden desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open them", "response": "drawer: Opening the drawer reveals a lunchbox and a plastic card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all from the drawer", "response": "lunchbox: Taken.\nplastic card: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lunchbox", "response": "It's a Dimwit Flathead lunchbox. I used to have one just like it back in grade school! It's made of metal, and covered with pictures of Lord Dimwit in famous places, like Mt. Rushmore and Flood Control Dam Number Three. The lunchbox is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opening the lunchbox reveals a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and an apple.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the card", "response": "It's the size and shape of a credit card, made of white plastic. On one side it says in really small letters, \"This card is the private property of Grue Industries, Inc. If you are not authorized to possess this card, you are currently in violation of the law. Please contact the police immediately so you can be arrested and duly prosecuted.\" There's a black strip on the other side, just like the one on the back of a credit card. Other than that, it's completely blank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the apple", "response": "You know how in Snow White the witch gives Snow White a poisoned apple, and she eats it and falls asleep so everyone thinks she is dead? As I'm biting into the apple, it occurs to me that this one looks exactly like the apple in Snow White.\n\nIt's OK though. Nothing bad happens to me when I eat it, except my fingers are now a bit sticky from the juice on them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the drawer", "response": "Closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "I'm standing in a hallway that runs between the lobby, to the west, and the end of the building, to the east. North is the door to Mr. Biggs office, which is currently standing open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swipe card", "response": "There's a click, and the light on the card reader turns green.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "I'm standing in a short hallway. There are doors to north, east, south, and west. Otherwise, the walls are completely blank. I can faintly hear voices coming through the door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen at the door", "response": "I can hear people talking on the other side of the door. I can't quite make out what they're saying, but I'm pretty sure that one of the voices is Mr. Biggs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the north door", "response": "It's locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I put my head carefully through the door, but immediately pull it back again. There's someone in there! I'm really not supposed to be down here, and I could be in a lot of trouble if I get caught. I need some sort of disguise so I won't attract attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "A man in a white coat looks up at me as I step into the room. I smile and show him my broom. He looks away without saying anything, and goes back to whatever he was doing. Good! I think my disguise is working!\n\n(Opening the west door)\nWorkshop\nThis is a really weird room. It almost looks like a mad\nscientist's workshop. There are bits of machinery all over the place, like someone has been putting things together or taking them apart. I have no idea what any of it is, though, and I'm not sure I want to know. I don't know why, but I'm getting a really creepy feeling from this place. What is it doing here? What does it have to do with the factory?\n\nThere's a door leading east back to the hallway, and another one to the west.\n\nA man in a white coat is doing something with the bits of machinery. He's ignoring me, which is just fine as far as I'm concerned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine machinery", "response": "I have no idea what any of this stuff is. There are gears, wires, tubes, pipes, motors, and I don't know what else scattered all over the place. It looks like someone's been building something. Or maybe taking something apart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "It's a tall man wearing a white coat. You know the kind that mad scientists always wear in movies? One like that. I don't remember ever seeing him before. It looks like he's doing something with a piece of machinery, but I can't tell what.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "(Opening the west door)\nMachine Room\nAs I step into the room, the first thing I notice is the loud\nclanking sound. There's a big machine sitting here noisily doing something. It looks like it's... No. Oh God, no. Please no, it can't be. No! Please!.\n\nIt's the most horrifying thing I've ever seen in my life. There are two conveyor belts running into the machine, one carrying widgets and the other wodgets. And it's fitting them together. It's doing exactly what I do, but a hundred times faster. I can hardly follow it with my eyes, it's fitting them together so quickly. I could never keep up with this thing. What do they need me for, now they've got this machine? All I've ever wanted to do was put widgets together. I thought I was the best, I had it made for life. And now with this thing... what am I? What am I good for? I'm so useless now, I don't even want to think about it. Will anyone care anymore if I live or die?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the machine", "response": "There's a big machine in the middle of the room, clanking away. There are two conveyor belts running into it, one carrying widgets and the other wodgets, and the assembled widget-wodgets are coming out a chute on the other side and falling into a box\n\nWhat a fool I've been. I see now what Mr. Biggs was talking about. They're going to replace us with machines. All of us! We've been doing our jobs up above, happily going along doing whatever they asked us. And they've been down here, building these robots to take our places. Talk about giving opium to the masses! What is it they've been giving us?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the machine", "response": "That's what I want to do. But how?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the widget in the machine", "response": "I can't put anything into the machine.\n\nI saw this movie once about these two guys who wrote music. One of them was really popular, but the other one wrote better music, and the first one knew it. He couldn't stand knowing someone else was better than him, so he tried to kill him.\n\nI think I understand now what that guy must have felt. I've always thought of myself as an artist. I put widgets together, and I always thought I was really good at it. No one could put those widgets together like I could. I guess it's like that for all artists. We go along doing our thing and thinking we're really good. And then one day we meet someone who's so much better, we don't know why we even bother trying. You've either got to give up, or find a way to get rid of them. They say art isn't easy. I finally know what they mean.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "There's a big machine in the middle of the room, clanking away.\nThere are two conveyor belts running into it, one carrying widgets and the other wodgets, and the assembled widget-wodgets are coming out a chute on the other side and falling into a box", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the widget on the machine", "response": "There's no good surface on the machine.\n\nVery well, I see now what I must do. Let it be war between us. \"Be bloody, bold, and resolute.\" Either I will destroy this machine, or it will destroy me. \"Lay on, Macduff, and damn'd be him that first cries, 'Hold, enough!'\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the widget on the belt", "response": "I drop the widget onto the conveyor belt. Within seconds, it has disappeared into the machine. A moment later, there's a strange cracking sound. It's hard to describe exactly. I guess it sounds sort of like a square-pegged widget being forced into a round-holed wodget at high speed, under lots of force. It's followed by a sound of belts squealing, which ends abruptly with a loud snapping sound. Then without warning, there's a deafening BANG! When my ears stop ringing, I realize that the machine has stopped. A thin stream of smoke is coming from it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The machine has stopped running. A thin stream of smoke is coming from it, and there are a couple of odd dents in the case.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), a clean shirt (being worn), a pair of shoes (being worn), a coat (being worn), a wristwatch (being worn), a wallet, keys, a flashlight, a broom, a uniform (being worn), a newspaper, a lunchbox, and a plastic card. The coat pocket seems to contain a book of famous quotations. The lunchbox seems to contain a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "As I step through the door, something hits me like a flying locomotive. Next thing I know, my back is pressed against the wall, there's someone holding me on either side, and Mr. Biggs is staring me in the face, his eyes bulging out like he was going to explode.\n\n\"So, I'll bet you think you're very clever, don't you?\" he wheezes. \"Yes, very, very clever, huh? Well I'll show you who's clever. I'm going to tie you up, and throw you into a vat of boiling water. I'm going to cut open your stomach, and pull out all your intestines, and fry them up while you watch me do it! I'm going to make you scream so loud you'll wish you'd never been born! You're going to beg me to let you die, and I'm going to stand there and smile at you! I'm going to make you...\"\n\nSuddenly he stops. A peaceful look comes over his face, and he almost looks like he's smiling. \"No. I have an even better idea. I'll let the owners deal with you themselves. I'm sure they can find an appropriate...use...for you.\" This time he really does smile, and something about it sends a chill through my whole body.\n\nHe spins around without another look and starts walking away. \"Let's go. Bring him along!\" I'm half dragged, half carried through a series of doorways, down a hall I've never seen before, through another set of doors. Suddenly I find myself staring at a final doorway. It's open, and there are stairs leading down into darkness. A coldness, and a strange musty smell, rises out of it.\n\n\"OK,\" says Mr. Biggs. \"Throw him in.\" There's a shove, the hands holding me let go, and I find myself tumbling down the stairs. Something cracks against my head on the way down, and I hit the bottom with a painful thump. The sound of the door slamming shut echoes through the darkness like the fall of a headsman's ax.\n\nIt's pitch black.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the flashlight", "response": "I'm in what must be the basement of the factory. The walls and\nfloor are made of concrete, and the ceiling is covered with pipes and ventilation ducts. Large metal light fixtures hang down at regular intervals, but they're all turned off. Only my little flashlight makes a pool of light in the middle of the room. There is a thick layer of dust on the floor. Otherwise, the room is completely empty.\n\nOpen doorways lead south and east. A metal staircase attached to the north wall leads upward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the staircase", "response": "These are the stairs that I fell down. They look old and kind of rickety. I can't see the top from where I'm standing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "I'm standing on a narrow metal staircase which leads down into darkness. At the top is a closed door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "I try to turn the handle, but it doesn't budge. It must be locked.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You descend", "response": "I'm in what must be the basement of the factory. The walls and\nfloor are made of concrete, and the ceiling is covered with pipes and ventilation ducts. Large metal light fixtures hang down at regular intervals, but they're all turned off. Only my little flashlight makes a pool of light in the middle of the room. There is a thick layer of dust on the floor. Otherwise, the room is completely empty.\n\nOpen doorways lead south and east. A metal staircase attached to the north wall leads upward.\n\nOut of the corner of my eye, I catch a glimpse of movement through one of the doorways. I spin around and shine the flashlight through it, but there's nothing there. Maybe it was just my imagination playing tricks on me?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is the oddest room. Well, the room itself is ordinary enough\n- more concrete, more pipes, doorways leading east and north. It looks like this was once a storeroom. I can see discolored patches on the walls and floor where large boxes must have sat for a long time.\n\nIt's the current contents of the room that are strange. No boxes or furniture anymore, just a huge pile of... stuff... in the middle of the floor. It's a mass of all sorts of odds and ends: scraps of cloth, old phone books, broken mattresses, and who knows what else.\nIt looks like a giant rat's nest. The strange musty smell that fills the basement is stronger here, like it was coming from this pile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine nest", "response": "Holding my nose, I move carefully toward the strange pile of stuff. I can see it better up close. There are old pieces of clothing, shirts and jackets and such, all torn and stained. There are lots of sheets, blankets, even a sleeping bag. There's a large rubber ball, like one you'd play with at the beach. And something that looks like...\n\nOh my...\n\nseveral large bones. Some of them with bits of meat still on them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bones", "response": "Please, don't make me go any closer. I don't like this place. I don't know what it is, but I want to leave. Please...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Another basement room, just like the others. This one isn't quite empty: a tall metal filing cabinet stands against one wall. Doorways lead north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cabinet", "response": "It's an ordinary looking metal filing cabinet. It has five drawers, all of which are currently closed.\n\nAgain, I see movement through the doorway. I'm sure of it this time. Something large and dark, moving slowly toward me. But again, when I shine the flashlight, there's nothing there. I don't like this place, I'm scared, I want to go home...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "I try each of the drawers in turn. All of them are locked except the third one, which slides open easily. It is filled with papers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "I flip through the papers and select one at random. It's something from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. I guess it must be a patent. It's entitled, \"A Device for Locomotion Through the Conversion of Rotary to Linear Motion.\" Huh?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the papers", "response": "I flip through the papers and select one at random. It's a brochure from the Society to Ban Hydrogen Hydroxide. It says that hydrogen hydroxide is a pollutant which is created as a side effect of many industrial processes. It can be harmful or even fatal if ingested in sufficiently large quantities, and is a major component of acid rain. In spite of this, it is completely unregulated, and many factories just dump it into the environment! It has been detected in many streams, rivers, and lakes, and may even be getting into the drinking water supply. This is really scary stuff. And I'd never even heard of it!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "I flip through the papers and select one at random. It looks like another patent. \"A Method for the Production of Energy in Biological Systems Through the Decomposition of Simple Sugars.\" This stuff is really weird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the papers", "response": "I flip through the papers and select one at random. It's a thick packet of photocopied pages that look like they're from an old book: \"The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter.\" I flip through a few pages, but I can't make head or tail of it. It reads kind of like poetry, but not really, and mostly it just sounds like someone was writing nonsense.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "I flip through the papers and select one at random. This one's another brochure: \"My Life as a Governess: A Witch's Guide to Controlling Children and Other Pests,\" by Silvia Daisy Pouncer. Since I don't have children, I'm not very interested in things like this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Basement, with Telephone\nThis is another room, just like the last one. There are doorways leading west and south. The room is almost completely empty, except for one thing: sitting right in the center of the concrete floor is a little table, the sort of fancy table made from curved pieces of wood that you find in antique stores. And on top of the table is a telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Telephone", "response": "How strange. There's no buttons, no dial, nothing. Just a handset sitting on a cradle, and a blank area where the buttons ought to be.\nI pick up the handset and listen to it. Instead of a dial tone, I hear a phone ringing on the other end. I let it ring several times, but no one answers, so I put it back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It's a little wooden table. The feet are shaped like claws holding balls, and the legs are carved to look like they're covered with flowers. I have no idea what this thing is doing here. I can hardly imagine anywhere that it would look more out of place. I don't understand anything that's going on.\n\nThere it is again, movement through the doorway, but it disappears before I can shine the flashlight on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "I'm in what must be the basement of the factory. The walls and\nfloor are made of concrete, and the ceiling is covered with pipes and ventilation ducts. Large metal light fixtures hang down at regular intervals, but they're all turned off. Only my little flashlight makes a pool of light in the middle of the room. There is a thick layer of dust on the floor. Otherwise, the room is completely empty.\n\nOpen doorways lead south and east. A metal staircase attached to the north wall leads upward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I have clean pants (being worn), clean socks (being worn), clean underwear (being worn), a clean shirt (being worn), a pair of shoes (being worn), a coat (being worn), a wristwatch (being worn), a wallet, keys, a flashlight (providing light), a broom, a uniform (being worn), a newspaper, a lunchbox, and a plastic card. The coat pocket seems to contain a book of famous quotations. The lunchbox seems to contain a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine wristwatch", "response": "One of my proudest possessions. This wristwatch is water-proof, shock-proof, and heat-proof, with alarm, stopwatch, countdown timer, memory for 24 phone numbers, and built in compass and thermometer. I don't usually care about knowing the time that much, but it sure looks cool.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the flashlight", "response": "I turn off the flashlight, and immediately I'm plunged into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nI just heard something. Or did I? A sort of muffled thump? I can't really tell. This place echoes strangely, and all my own sounds come back to me in odd ways.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nI definitely heard something. Sort of a quiet scratching sound. I'm not sure which way it came from, but it definitely wasn't me. Where am I? What is this place?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe sound is coming closer! There's something down here with me, and it's coming toward me! Help, please, get me out of here. There's something down here and I don't know what it is, but I'm really scared and I want to get out of here. Please help me...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nAaaiiiiieeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flashlight in the nest", "response": "I don't want to leave it just lying around. It might get lost.\n\nOut of the corner of my eye, I catch a glimpse of movement through one of the doorways. I spin around and shine the flashlight through it, but there's nothing there. Maybe it was just my imagination playing tricks on me?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Another basement room, just like the others. This one isn't quite empty: a tall metal filing cabinet stands against one wall. Doorways lead north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cabinet", "response": "It's an ordinary looking metal filing cabinet. It has five drawers, of which the third one is currently open. It is filled with papers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawers", "response": "The filing cabinet is already open!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "It's a small metal box, attached to the wall. It is currently closed.\n\nAgain, I see movement through the doorway. I'm sure of it this time. Something large and dark, moving slowly toward me. But again, when I shine the flashlight, there's nothing there. I don't like this place, I'm scared, I want to go home...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "I open the box, revealing a circuit breaker switch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the flashlight", "response": "I turn off the flashlight, and immediately I'm plunged into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "It's a small metal box, attached to the wall. It is currently open, revealing a circuit breaker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lights", "response": "The lights are spaced along the ceiling every ten feet or so. They're held in round metal reflectors that hang down about five feet from the ceiling to get below all the pipes and stuff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pipes", "response": "I can barely see most of the ceiling, since it's hidden in shadow behind all the pipes and ducts hanging down from it. The shadows wiggle strangely as I move the flashlight back and forth. Almost as if there were something up there...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the breaker", "response": "Inside the box is a circuit breaker switch. It is currently on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Basement, with Telephone\nThis is another room, just like the last one. There are doorways leading west and south. The room is almost completely empty, except for one thing: sitting right in the center of the concrete floor is a little table, the sort of fancy table made from curved pieces of wood that you find in antique stores. And on top of the table is a telephone.\n\nThere it is again, movement through the doorway, but it disappears before I can shine the flashlight on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "This is my guide in life. More than 10,000 quotations by the greatest, most intelligent people in history. I really can't imagine life without it. Anything important that's ever been said, I can find it in here.\n\nNot many people know this about me, but I was adopted. I don't know who my real parents were. I was just left on the doorstep of an orphanage with nothing but a change of diapers and this book of quotations. So I guess it won't surprise you that I've always thought of this book as my parents' voice. I've tried to live my life by it. When I've got to make any big decision, I always look here first, and I always find something that tells me what to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "I flip through the book of quotations and pick one at random. G.K. Chesterton: \"An inconvenience is only an adventure wrongly considered; an adventure is an inconvenience rightly considered.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "I flip through the book of quotations and pick one at random. Samuel Johnson: \"Curiosity is one of the permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous mind.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "I flip through the book of quotations and pick one at random. H.P. Lovecraft: \"The most merciful thing in the world, I think, is the inability of the human mind to correlate all its contents.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the walls", "response": "The walls are made of concrete. I don't see anything interesting about them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Another basement room, just like the others. This one isn't quite empty: a tall metal filing cabinet stands against one wall. A small metal box, previously hidden by the cabinet, is mounted on the wall. Doorways lead north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the cabinet", "response": "It's too tall for me to climb on top of, and I think it might tip over if I tried.\n\nThere it is again, movement through the doorway, but it disappears before I can shine the flashlight on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Basement, with Telephone\nThis is another room, just like the last one. There are doorways leading west and south. The room is almost completely empty, except for one thing: sitting right in the center of the concrete floor is a little table, the sort of fancy table made from curved pieces of wood that you find in antique stores. And on top of the table is a telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the table", "response": "It's too small for me to stand on top of.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Wheeee!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dust", "response": "The concrete floor is covered with a thick layer of dust. It looks like it hasn't been cleaned in ages. There are strange patterns in the dust - long trails like objects have been dragged along the floor, and smaller streaks, and blotches that look almost like footprints but not quite.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the switch", "response": "It's already turned on!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You switch the switch", "response": "It's pitch black.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the switch", "response": "I flip the switch on the circuit breaker. At first I don't think anything's going to happen. Then I hear a quiet hum, and a moment later I'm blinded as all the lights in the basement suddenly come on.\n\nAt the same moment a deafening sound echoes through the room, something half way between an animal roar and a scream. It's followed by a series of banging sounds, first dull ones, then ringing ones of something pounding against metal. Then there's a crash like something shattering. I hear a few more quiet screams vanishing into the distance, and then silence.\n\nI'm sorry. What just happened?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Another basement room, just like the others. This one isn't quite empty: a tall metal filing cabinet stands against one wall. A small metal box, previously hidden by the cabinet, is mounted on the wall. Doorways lead north and west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "I'm in what must be the basement of the factory. The walls and\nfloor are made of concrete, and the ceiling is covered with pipes and ventilation ducts. Large metal light fixtures hang down at regular intervals. There is a thick layer of dust on the floor. Otherwise, the room is completely empty.\n\nOpen doorways lead south and east. A metal staircase attached to the north wall leads upward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Basement, with Telephone\nThis is another room, just like the last one. There are doorways leading west and south. The room is almost completely empty, except for one thing: sitting right in the center of the concrete floor is a little table, the sort of fancy table made from curved pieces of wood that you find in antique stores. And on top of the table is a telephone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It's a little wooden table. The feet are shaped like claws holding balls, and the legs are carved to look like they're covered with flowers. I have no idea what this thing is doing here. I can hardly imagine anywhere that it would look more out of place. I don't understand anything that's going on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "I'm standing on a narrow metal staircase which leads down to the basement, and up to a closed door. Or rather, it would be closed if there weren't a huge hole smashed right through the middle. It looks like a freight train went through here, and the door got in the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "I climb through the hole in the door to the hallway on the other side. It takes a few wrong turns, but eventually I find my way back upstairs again. The whole factory seems to be deserted. Not a sign of anyone. The parking lot is completely empty.\n\nAs I stand waiting at the bus stop, I have the strangest feeling.\nIt's like waking up from a trance, or leaving the auditorium at the end of a concert. I know I've been somewhere strange, witnessed amazing things, but I'm not certain exactly what they were. \"States of dreamy melancholy, fits of aimless joy.\" Was I the audience or the performer? Did it really happen, or was it just a fantasy? A witch's spell? Am I the artist? And if not, then who is?\n\nI think I'll stop off at the mall on my way home. I need an ice cream cone.\n\nDear Mom,\n\nThanks a lot for the cookies you sent. They were really great. I still say you make the best oatmeal raisin cookies in the world.\n\nMy new job is going really well. I never would have guessed that screwing caps onto toothpaste tubes could be so interesting. My boss, Mr. Bucket, says I have a natural talent for it.\n\nI was really lucky to find a job so quickly. A lot of the guys from Frobworks are still looking. No one's sure what the new owners are planning to do with the building yet, but there's a rumor that they want to start a computer game company. Pretty weird, huh?\n\nAnyway, thanks a lot. I'll write again soon. I love you a lot.\n\nYour son,\n\nP.S. Next time, could you send chocolate chip instead?\n\nFBI WARNING:\n\nTHE FBI COULD NOT CARE LESS WHAT YOU DO WITH THIS GAME. THEY MAY, HOWEVER, STILL CHOOSE TO TAP YOUR PHONE LINE, READ YOUR EMAIL, AND SEND LOVE LETTERS TO RANDOM PEOPLE SIGNED WITH YOUR NAME. THIS DOES NOT MEAN THAT YOU ARE SUSPECTED OF COMMITTING ANY CRIMES. THEY JUST ENJOY DOING IT.\n\nNo grues were harmed in the making of this game.\n\nCongratulations! You have completed the game!\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Outtakes", "response": "It's time for breakfast! I sit down to a delicious meal of fried eggs and start... ummm... excuse me.\n\nI'm sorry, I just can't do this. I can't stand eggs. Even the smell of them makes me sick. Couldn't we please change them to something else, like toast or cereal?\n\nOK, wait a minute. I have an idea. We'll keep the eggs, but as soon as they ask me to eat them, I'll realize the bus is coming. So I won't have time to eat them, and I can just grab a pop-tart or something instead. That way we can keep your whole \"cooking the eggs\" thing you were so proud of, but I won't have to eat them. Would that be ok?\n\n>put widget into wodget\n\nI put the peg of the blue widget into the hole of the red wodget and... wait a minute! It won't go in! Hey - this wodget has a...\n\ntriangular?\n\nOK, very funny! Who's the wise guy in props?\n\n>wear uniform\n\nJust like that? \"wear uniform\"? Am I supposed to somehow put it on over the clothes I'm already wearing? Or do you want me to strip them off first? And then what should I do with them? Carry them around? Leave them here?\n\nOh, right. Plot device. Never mind.\n\n>turn on flashlight\n\nI turn on the flashlight and... Wait a minute. It isn't going on. The bulb must be burnt out. OK, I'm standing here in the dark, and my flashlight won't go on. Um... there aren't really any grues down here, are there? Could someone turn on the lights? Hello? Anyone? Bill, is that you? Bill?\n\nDear Mom,\n\nI have some very important news to tell you. I have decided to get a job with a company that writes computer games. I know this will come as a disappointment to you, since you've always wanted me to work in a factory like you and dad. I know what you will say about family traditions and your great uncle Herbert and all that, but this is MY life, damn it. I'm sick of wasting my life putting stupid pieces of plastic together day after day after day. It's time I did something that I care about, for a change.\n\nAnd while I'm at it, what's up with the cookies? How many times have I told you that I can't stand oatmeal raisin cookies? Why do you insist on doing this to me? Are you trying to prove something, or can you simply not believe I could really feel differently from you about anything in the world?\n\nDear Mom,\n\nThank you for the cookies you sent. I guess you forgot that I don't eat oatmeal raisin cookies, but I really appreciate the thought.\n\nI have some wonderful news for you. I've decided to get a job with a company that writes computer games. I know it's a bit different from what you've always imagined for me. But this is a great opportunity, and I think I could be really good at it.\n\nI hope you won't be too disappointed by this. I just don't want to keep wasting my life working at an assembly line. Not that there's anything wrong with working on an assembly line. I know you and dad have done it all your lives, and you really like it. It's just that I don't want to keep wasting my life\n\n(sigh)\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.\n\nType OUTTAKES to view outtakes, RESTORE to load a saved game, RESTART to start the game over again, or QUIT to quit.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Science Fiction" ]

[ "built-in hints", "cover art", "fantasy", "female protagonist", "IF Competition 2007", "IFComp Game", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2007", "XYZZY Best Setting" ]

[ 1, 13, 4, 5, 0 ]

[ { "action": "You look at the foot", "response": "Her foot is clean and dry. A miracle, considering the warm, out-of-season boots she's been wearing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan outfit (being worn)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You cannot move while supporting Nivanen's weight. You should ask her to get off first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine outfit", "response": "You're wearing a green tunic with a pair of tight brown breeches and soft leather boots.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Nivanen", "response": "Your good friend is... heavy for you, but her lack of vertigo is an advantage. Better to have her up there than you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Nivanen", "response": "\"Hmm I'm not sure, but maybe I'll need your help to climb a bit higher. Anyways, tell me to look whenever you're ready, ok?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You ask your friend to examine what's going on beyond the wall.\n\nNivanen's unbooted foot presses on your hands as she adjusts her body to get a better view of the hangar. As a town guard who patrols battlements and walks along the walls on a daily basis, she has no problem with heights. And for the same reason, she's in no hurry to get down; she's fascinated by the sight before her.\n\nShe excitedly reports seeing one large vessel, the likes of which has never landed here before. But she can't see anything else because she's not high enough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lift nivanen", "response": "You gather your force and pull your hooked hands up, allowing Nivanen to quickly stabilize her elbows on the stone wall and get a better view.\n\nYou feel the edge of the wall you're standing on under your soft boots and the sensation sends a shiver up to your legs. You try not to think of your vertigo, and press your body harder against the ivy on the wall. The leaves give you a false sense of security, enough to keep your head from turning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Nivanen reports that she now sees two smaller one-man vehicles before the large one she could see earlier. She describes their models and estimates their prices. You grind your teeth...\n\nFeeling your impatience, she quickly adds that there are eight Ashtartans, six men and two women, and one man is obviously their chief. Before them stand the Argbaan and High Priest and a few more officials. After a pause, she gladly adds that there's no one wearing an Ember medallion there.\n\n\"If you want to know more about something, just ask me about it,\" she says merrily. \"Otherwise I'm ready to get off.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about the book", "response": "Which do you mean, the bookshelves, the old books, the poem book or the books?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about the ember medallion", "response": "\"Can't define all the ranks and the badges from this distance... But I'm sure no one's wearing an Ember medallion around his or her neck.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about the chief", "response": "\"He's older than the rest and is wearing more medals and insignia.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about Argbaan", "response": "\"I didn't quite expect the Argbaan herself to be here. Lady Atossa is mostly listening as the others do the talking.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about the vessel", "response": "\"Magnificent craftsmanship. No wonder they arrived so early.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the breeches", "response": "You're wearing a green tunic with a pair of tight brown breeches and soft leather boots.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about the women", "response": "There is no reply.\n\n\"The ambassadors are well dressed, in gold-embroidered uniforms. And they're all tall, warrior type, good-looking and smiling...\" She prattles on about the fact that she can't wait to meet them in person tomorrow but you remind her angrily that that's not why you're supporting her weight down here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Royal Nest's storeroom (on the ledge)\nYou're currently in a storeroom of the Nest, standing on top of a brick wall. A ladder leads down to the solid ground. The floor is far below; the thought makes your head turn.\n\nYou can see Nivanen here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You cannot move while supporting Nivanen's weight. You should ask her to get off first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get down", "response": "Light and agile, she descends and secures both her feet on the ledge, then looks up to you and grins. You unravel your fingers. Your joints are red and aching. Ninaven climbs down the ladder with an attempt to complain that you wasted her time with your worries, and she has better things to do with her free time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ladder", "response": "It's the wooden ladder you two used to conquer the brick wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wall", "response": "The stone wall of the hangar has been built recently. It's very high.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ivy", "response": "The ivy has climbed the wall, even higher than you. It's probably grown from a damp crack on the floor somewhere.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Royal Nest's storeroom (on the ledge)\nYou're currently in a storeroom of the Nest, standing on top of a brick wall. A ladder leads down to the solid ground. The floor is far below; the thought makes your head turn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ivy", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "You're now standing on the Royal Nest's storeroom. This is a large room filled with sacks of animal food that occupy the shelves. They range from minerals and grains to insects and dried meat and bones", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "suited for various flying beasts. The storeroom's door is shut, but the trapdoor from which you came in is wide open.\n\nNivanen reaches for her boot which she had removed before climbing on your hands and puts it back on. Rasha, her cat, comes out from a corner and turns around her. His huge green eyes meet yours and widen, then he jumps down the trapdoor and disappears.\n\nYou can see a trapdoor and Nivanen here.\n\nYou carefully climb down to the darkness of the tunnel and wait for your friend to lock the trapdoor and light her torch. You walk for a short while until you reach an exit opening up to the fresh night air. You catch a glimpse of Nivanen's cat running off as you climb out of the tunnel.\n\nCargo terrace (Royal Nest)\nThe cargo terrace is a moderately sized platform for temporarily storing all kinds of shipments that arrive or are waiting to be sent by air. Chariots and wheels and strapped packs line the wall, used to load or unload heavy stuff.\n\nThere's a trapdoor on the floor, and a path to the southeast.\n\nNivanen extinguishes her torch and closes the trapdoor behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shelves", "response": "Various sacks of animal food occupy the shelves. They're used for feeding the winged beasts who carry people and deliver shipments. Their smell is somewhat overwhelming. You want to get away from this place as soon as possible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the food", "response": "\"You can't be serious. They stink!\" Nivanen says with a scowl.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You carefully climb down to the darkness of the tunnel and wait for your friend to lock the trapdoor and light her torch. You walk for a short while until you reach an exit opening up to the fresh night air. You catch a glimpse of Nivanen's cat running off as you climb out of the tunnel.\n\nCargo terrace (Royal Nest)\nThe cargo terrace is a moderately sized platform for temporarily storing all kinds of shipments that arrive or are waiting to be sent by air. Chariots and wheels and strapped packs line the wall, used to load or unload heavy stuff.\n\nThere's a trapdoor on the floor, and a path to the southeast.\n\nNivanen extinguishes her torch and closes the trapdoor behind you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You walk on until you reach a bridge, in the middle of which you pause to catch your breath. The old brick bridge overlooks a small market. Behind you, on a pedestal made out of the same clay bricks as the bridge, a flame burns steadily in a big metal bowl.\n\nThe path continues to the east, and the cargo terrace is to the northwest.\n\n\"I'll go and put the keys back from where I took them. Goodnight... see you tomorrow.\" Nivanen says, yawning, and walks away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flame", "response": "Half asleep, you continue along the road to your home. You finally open the door and stumble in. You can't tell how long you've been walking, but it doesn't matter now. Shortly after, you get into your bed and instantly drift into a heavy sleep...\n\nYou rest soundly in your warm bed all through the night, until the light of the late morning awakens you.\n\nBedroom (on the bed)\nSitting on your bed, you stretch your limbs and yawn, inhaling the fresh mountain air which is entering your sunny room from the window which you left open last night. The breeze is cool, tempting you to crawl back under your warm bedsheet, but the sunlight's warmth on your skin is equally inviting.\n\nYour room is cozy and comfortable with meticulously selected furniture and decoration. A mirrored dresser is placed near the open window, with a small marble basin and a pitcher next to it. And at the foot of your bed there is a chest.\n\nThe only exit is to the north.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flame", "response": "An odorless oil burns neatly in the massive metal bowl. You watch with pleasure as the flame casts a warm light on your surroundings. Although more difficult to maintain, in Arg Varkana people prefer flames to glow orbs. You're no exception.\n\nAs you watch you notice a feather on the floor, glittering in the warm light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the feather", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "A nice red feather with a firm shaft. It's likely from a goknous, the rare exquisite courier bird.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The old brick bridge overlooks a small market. Behind you, on a pedestal made out of the same clay bricks as the bridge, a flame burns steadily in a big metal bowl.\n\nThe path continues to the east, and the cargo terrace is to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pedestal", "response": "It's made out of the bridge itself; a round platform of brick. It supports a fire bowl in which a flame burns at night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bowl", "response": "The heat is intense - you can tell without burning your hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na feather\nan outfit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Half asleep, you continue along the road to your home. You finally open the door and stumble in. You can't tell how long you've been walking, but it doesn't matter now. Shortly after, you get into your bed and instantly drift into a heavy sleep...\n\nYou rest soundly in your warm bed all through the night, until the light of the late morning awakens you.\n\nBedroom (on the bed)\nSitting on your bed, you stretch your limbs and yawn, inhaling the fresh mountain air which is entering your sunny room from the window which you left open last night. The breeze is cool, tempting you to crawl back under your warm bedsheet, but the sunlight's warmth on your skin is equally inviting.\n\nYour room is cozy and comfortable with meticulously selected furniture and decoration. A mirrored dresser is placed near the open window, with a small marble basin and a pitcher next to it. And at the foot of your bed there is a chest.\n\nThe only exit is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chest", "response": "It's a dark rusty metal chest containing your treasured clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "You lazily get out of your bed.\n\nThe chest contains some clean clothes. You rummage a bit until you select an outfit. Once you have changed your clothes, you close the chest.\n\nYou're now wearing a maroon leather top and pants. A nice gift from Bastovaan, the old beast tamer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "You open the drawer, revealing a comb and some jewelry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all from the drawer", "response": "comb: You comb your hair a bit. When satisfied, you put it back in place.\njewelry: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wash hands", "response": "You tilt the heavy pitcher a bit and wash your face and hands with the sparkling water. You feel refreshed. The water slowly drains from the basin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jewelry", "response": "Your jewelry include armbands, a torc, hairpins and earrings that usually accompany you during the day.\n\nUnless given to someone else before death, a person and their jewelry are usually buried together. Wearing them is more a custom than a personal choice. Gladly, you have nothing against it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops jewelry", "response": "You put on the jewelry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Rasha", "response": "Rasha is the cat of your friend Nivanen. He's fat with thick yellow fur.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the mirror", "response": "It's a nice mirror with a wooden frame.\n\nChiselled face, wavy hair, a bit suntanned... yes, that's you. You are wearing a maroon leather top and pants. A nice gift from Bastovaan, the old beast tamer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Farahnaaz; a slender, long-haired bookcrafter who is almost at the end of her apprenticeship course.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The large window opens to a quiet section of the vineyard below, lined by a stone sidewalk and flanked by a wall. The mountains can be seen under the deep blue sky, shining with an almost unearthly splendor under the sun. Among the vines you see Rasha, your friend's cat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mountains", "response": "The peaks are snow-capped for all four seasons. The rocks change color from gray-blue and purple-violet to amber depending on the weather and sunlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vines", "response": "It's a small section of the semi-famous vineyards of Arg Varkana, a source of tiny ruby grapes, wine, vinegar, raisins and sweet syrup all to consume as well as to export and exchange.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sky", "response": "It's a sunny day, and the sky is a clear deep blue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "North", "response": "You find and pick up your backpack from a corner and leave your room.\n\nYou are on the open terrace by your room. The way to the north is blocked by the high walls of a private estate surrounded by tall trees.\n\nSome stairs lead downward, to a shady park to the east and eventually to the vineyard in the southeast. More stairs lead upward to the west. Your room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trees", "response": "It's the house of an old surgeon and his wife. You see them often, but you have never seen much of their house due to the walls and the ancient trees that surround it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)\na feather", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You are on the open terrace by your room. The way to the north is blocked by the high walls of a private estate surrounded by tall trees.\n\nSome stairs lead downward, to a shady park to the east and eventually to the vineyard in the southeast. More stairs lead upward to the west. Your room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe vineyard itself is in a pretty irregular shape. It continues between the nearby houses and buildings within the reach of many people from where they live and work. Narrow stone pathways mark the main paths. At this end the vines, you think gladly, come near your room's window; as if only to please the sole resident there.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Rasha, your friend's cat, sitting and relaxing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet cat", "response": "He pulls back his head and raises a clawed paw in order to defend himself if need be. You can't help but to snarl at him, which only proves his point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the oil", "response": "Some drops of liquid which you identify as oil form a visible trail to the east. The other end of the trail is hard to make out, as the oil seems to have ceased dripping after a while.\n\nSome drops of liquid which you identify as oil form a visible trail to the east. The other end of the trail is hard to make out, as the oil seems to have ceased dripping after a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pavilion", "response": "Nice, leafy pavilions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cat", "response": "Rasha is the cat of your friend Nivanen. He's fat with thick yellow fur.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "East", "response": "Near the brink of the cliff the vines grow scarcer but more unruly and are gradually replaced with wild herbs. Before the brink there's a circular landing platform.\n\nUnder the cliff you can see a narrow section of the town ending at one of the minor town gates. Beyond the gate, and far below, lies the eastern meadow.\n\nThe only exit is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the platform", "response": "A conventional landing spot for landing hawks, drakes, or - if from a Sarvegnian community or something similar - airborn vehicles. It's made from stone, and is circular, measuring about four meters in diameter. Three crystalline glow orbs are inlaid within its brim to make it recognizable at night.\n\nSome of the wild herbs around the platform are burnt. From those and the fresh oil stains you conclude someone has landed here recently. However, it's an obsolete platform, too far from any functioning nest to be practical.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the orbs", "response": "Crystalline orbs, obtained from glow rocks, absorb sunlight during the day and shine brightly at night. Thus they guide airborn travellers. When the days get too dark and cloudy for the crystals to be charged properly, bright lanterns are installed nearby to aid their purpose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the herbs", "response": "They're hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the town", "response": "Below you, on a mountain ledge, there's a narrow section of the town which ends at a gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gate", "response": "The gate provides access to the eastern meadow through a harsh and steep mountain road. Obviously it's less often used than the major gates, but it's still a facility.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the meadow", "response": "With all the dandelions and buttercups flowering, the meadow resembles a radiant yellow-and-green sea between the mountains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Your singing is abominable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open gate", "response": "That's out of reach, you can only look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Rasha here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cat", "response": "You take one step towards the cat, but he casually goes the same distance away from you. Maybe according to some feline concept of private space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "You take the path westward which leads to a square in the town.\n\nThis is the square which you cross every day to reach your workshop in the library. You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the kids", "response": "Many of the town children are gathered here. You recognize some of them due to their frequent visits to the library and occasionally creeping into the workshop. Most of them are playing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fountain", "response": "It's a simple clean fountain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the benches", "response": "Some simple wooden benches. Most of them are occupied by the kids.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plants", "response": "Nice decorative plants.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "North", "response": "Engraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.\n\nYou see saddled vehicle leaning next to a pillar.\n\nYou can also see a man here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lift rug", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine man", "response": "He is dressed in an outfit matching Nivanen's description of Ashtartan ambassadors. His clothes, however, are dusty with occasional tears and burns. He carries some insignia, one of which you associate with the machinery engineers' guild or something close.\n\nHe wears a chain around his neck but the pendant (if there is any) has gone down into his collar. As you try to figure it out he raises an eyebrow and gives you a freezing look. You instantly stop studying his appearance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vehicle", "response": "It's a one-man vehicle with a saddle instead of a seat; less cozy but easier to manoeuvre. It has a transparent shield in front to protect the pilot at high speed. It's bronze in color and has been damaged and patched up in various places and needs cleaning. Even though Ashtartan-made, it can't be one of those fabulous ones Nivanen saw last night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "He nods as you introduce yourself. \"Ardavaan here. Greetings to you too, Farahnaaz.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cushion", "response": "They're hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about yourself", "response": "\"I'm familiar with your craft; I enjoy drawing as well. I once had a... brilliant mentor in Ashtarta. He goes by the name Behzaad.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the man", "response": "He only gives you a brief smile, while his eyes fix yours with their cold and careful, penetrating stare. You find yourself unable to say anything so you mumble an apology and turn away, feeling stupid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about Behzaad", "response": "\"So he has even been to your town. I knew the old jackal back in Ashtarta. He is a remarkable craftsman indeed... And you say, he just left the town?\"\n\nYou nod. \"Yesterday afternoon.\"\n\nHe looks away. \"Lucky him...\" You wait for him to continue, but he doesn't seem to intend to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go vehicle", "response": "You reach for the handles and begin to mount the saddle, but a stare from the owner of the vehicle discourages you from going on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the vehicle", "response": "\"Yes, that belongs to me. You may not touch it, if you were wondering.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chain", "response": "As you try, he raises an eyebrow and gives you a freezing look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "\"I guess the other... ambassadors discuss this topic adequately.\"\n\nYou're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nThe Librarian Houtan greets you with a wide smile. \"Good morning, dear Farahnaaz! How're you today?\"\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Houtan", "response": "Houtan's gaze wanders towards the terrace as he strokes his moustache. \"Hmm maybe you've wondered who is the one sitting out there...\" You nod. He seems quite lost in thoughts; something unprecedented to your knowledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about himself", "response": "\"I'm as fine as ever. You know, I do love this place.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell you about Ardavaan", "response": "Librarian Houtan has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave feather", "response": "You look ridiculous waving the feather.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about the ambassadors", "response": "\"You know how I feel about that. Perhaps I'm too pessimistic, but nothing is done out of pure goodwill my dear, not between distant lands who have had no relationships for decades.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about the feather", "response": "(the feather)\n\"Goknous is a perfect bird for sending urgent and important messages due to its speed, intelligence and fidelity. It's quite costly though, a very few people can afford to have one. And those who do avoid using it for everyday errands. That's why it's quite rare to see one flying about.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about the book", "response": "(the bookshelves)\n\"I wouldn't hinder you of course. But I'd suggest you wait for the attendants open the window shutters upstairs after lunch so you can find what you seek.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about Ardavaan", "response": "\"Ah, he arrived a little before dawn. I saw him when I was sweeping the terrace and spreading the rugs, so we sat down together and had our tea and breakfast outside, watching the sunrise. We had a chat about folkore and mythology; he seemed particularly interested when I talked about the goddess Amortaad - reminded me of yourself my dear, hmm... I told him to go to the old temple. He went there to make impressive drawings of Amortaad and... excuse me... Hello young man! Bring them to me, come here.\"\n\nYou turn and see a teenage boy behind you waiting with some books in his hands. He gives you an apologetic look as Librarian Houtan receives his books. You wait there to further the discussion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the boy", "response": "Looks like a juvenile bookworm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about the boy", "response": "(the boy)\nThere is no reply.\n\nThe teenage boy steps out of the library and walks away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about the temple", "response": "\"The old temple is intriguing indeed. And in a good shape, too.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about the books", "response": "(the bookshelves)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nIt's very dark in here. Since the window shutters are closed, the upper part of the glowrock chandelier has gone out without having the chance to recharge with the morning sunlight. You can't walk without the risk of tripping on something. You better go get some sort of light source yourself, if you don't want to wait for the museum to open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You climb down the staircase.\n\nYou're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You climb down the staircase.\n\nYou are in the bookcrafter's workshop, a spacious hall for copying, illustrating and repairing books where artisans like yourself work.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the library.\n\nYou can see your colleague Arjang sitting behind his desk. He looks up at you. \"Ah, Farahnaaz, how very unexpected to see you down here. Have you lost something?\" You frown defiantly. \"Uh, just joking. Actually I need your help. If you have some free time to talk to me...\" .", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Arjang", "response": "\"Thank you girl, I really appreciate your willingness to help. You see, one of the new trainees has somehow spilled my last pot of kingberry ink...\" You bite your lip to suppress a smile; only very dedicated artisans can ignore the delicious taste of the popular edible ink.\n\n\"... and I need some to finish the map I'm working on. It's to be given to the Ashtartan ambassadors, so I really don't have time to go searching among kingberry bushes... Please, get me some kingberries as soon as you can, and simply press their juice into this bottle. No need to add honeypine sap if freshly used.\" He hands you an empty ink bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about Ardavaan", "response": "\"Yes, I saw him chatting with Houtan when I came in. He looked quite weary, I doubt it was only one night's sleep that he missed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about the kingberries", "response": "\"Kingberry bushes are commonly found around the town. But the the problem is, the kids strip the bushes off any ripe fruit. You'll have more luck searching in a remote quiet place.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about Behzaad", "response": "\"You've got to tell me what he was so enthusiastically talking about the night before last night, at the dining hall. But not now, I'm too busy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about Houtan", "response": "\"He tends to everything with genuine care while he makes you think all he does is relax behind his desk or brew his aromatic tea. I like him.\" You nod in agreement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about the book", "response": "Which do you mean, the bookshelves, the old books, the poem book or the books?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bottle", "response": "An empty ink bottle. You're supposed to fill it with kingberry juice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "It's a big work desk currently fully covered with Arjang's tools, papers and stuff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at papers", "response": "The paper supply is pretty low at the moment. And all of the remaining sheets seem to have been claimed by Arjang, the way he has hoarded them all together on his desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nYou're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at glowstands", "response": "Clusters of glow orbs hang from glowstands like ripe fruit from tree branches (Houtan wouldn't risk firelight in his library, not when there's adequate daylight to charge the orbs). The glowstands are placed on the floor, in well-thought spots to provide enough light for browsing the shelves and reading at the tables.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get glowstand", "response": "You carefully pick a single orb from a glowstand on a particularly sunny spot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at orb", "response": "(the glow orb)\nThis piece of glow crystal is as large as a walnut and is finely burnished. It seems to be fully charged, judging from the sunny spot you took it from.\n\nGlow orbs absorb light during the day and shine vigorously when it gets dim. They are a good cumulative light source together in form of clusters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nThe museum is a tidy hall filled with various exhibits, ranging from artworks and crafts and old objects to archeological findings.\n\nDisplay cases, shelves and tables occupy the most possible space without making it difficult to walk. A glass cabinet containing old books in a corner draws your attention.\n\nThe only exit is back down the staircase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cabinet", "response": "It's an ornate glass cabinet with wooden frame and glass doors. Within, you see several old books.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smash cabinet", "response": "You tap on the glass experimentally. But much as you'd like to get a closer look at the poem book, you can't bring yourself to damage part of the museum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the cabinet with the feather", "response": "You don't have the key to open it. The museum attendants will arrive after lunch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Engraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.\n\nYou see Ardavaan's vehicle leaning next to a pillar.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan here.\n\nEngraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.\n\nYou see Ardavaan's vehicle leaning next to a pillar.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vehicle", "response": "It's a one-man vehicle with a saddle instead of a seat; less cozy but easier to manoeuvre. It has a transparent shield in front to protect the pilot at high speed. It's bronze in color and has been damaged and patched up in various places and needs cleaning. Even though Ashtartan-made, it can't be one of those fabulous ones Nivanen saw last night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pillar", "response": "The pillars are slender, made of tall poplar trunks and not very new. They bear engraved floral motifs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "South", "response": "You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "Starting a conversation with children while they outnumber you would encourage them to overwhelm you with their questions and chatter. You prefer to keep silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Southeast", "response": "You climb a steep road upward and enter the old temple.\n\nThe interior of this old temple is still relatively intact. There are shallow pools of water, and a beautiful dome overhead. The water is provided by a natural source boiling out of the mountain rocks and flowing from a wall behind a pair of statues. One of the statues represents the goddess Amortaad and the other her beast counterpart Senmervae.\n\nYou see a little boy sitting on a bench in here.\n\nAt the foot of the statues you see some flowers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowers", "response": "A handful of wild flowers have been placed before Amortaad and Senmervae. You wonder who did this. Offerings are usually brought to the newer and grander ziggurat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine boy", "response": "A vicious little thing with sharp teeth! Not really, this one seems to be a calm boy. He's sitting near one of the pools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the statues", "response": "Not all of the inlaid stones are left in their place, but the statues are in a good condition.\n\nOne of the statues represents Amortaad, and the other Senmervae. (You may examine each statue separately for more details.)\n\n[Picture number 5 here.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You speak to the amortaad", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Amortaad", "response": "The life size figure chiselled on stone represents the once popular goddess Amortaad. She is still worshipped, you remind yourself, but no entire temple is dedicated to her anymore.\n\nThe figure is adorned with a necklace of gilded vine leaves, beads of lapis lazuli, and armbands with lion heads (a more ceremonial version of the ones you have). Her jet-inlaid eyes are outlined with thick black lines and she carries six weapons on her back; reminding you of Varkana's tradition of initiating a warrior to all those six weapons before letting them specialize in one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Senmervae", "response": "This statue represents a fabulous beast, which resembles a winged lion with ram horns, on whose back the goddess would ride out from her home at the source of the sacred river Surana on top of high mountains to visit lands and peoples (there is a debate on the location of the mountains; some even go so far to suggest they are somewhere in an old, distant world).\n\nThe lion's head and eyes are inlaid with colorful stones and the scaly neck is covered with a glistening green enamel. Senmervae's images often adorn schools, libraries and scientific books, because people associate it with science and knowledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pool", "response": "The fountains don't work and the mossy pools need cleaning. Still, stream water flows gently in the pools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dome", "response": "The round dome overhead is not very high, producing a comfortable homey ambiance. It is decorated with light-colored motifs of mythological beings, intertwined with spiralled plants. Twelve windows, each made of a very thin layer of white stone, are installed on the dome to filter the sunlight.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The interior of this old temple is still relatively intact. There are shallow pools of water, and a beautiful dome overhead. The water is provided by a natural source boiling out of the mountain rocks and flowing from a wall behind a pair of statues. One of the statues represents the goddess Amortaad and the other her beast counterpart Senmervae.\n\nYou see a little boy sitting on a bench in here.\n\nAt the foot of the statues you see some flowers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get flowers", "response": "It's not acceptable to steal the offerings of Amortaad and Senmervae. After all, they're still venerated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink water", "response": "The stream water is cold and refreshing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You offer the feather to the amortaad", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the boy", "response": "The boy looks up to you, then his gaze shifts to the statues and pauses on the flowers. He then turns his head away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the boy about the flowers", "response": "(the flowers)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na glow orb (providing light)\nan empty ink bottle\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)\na feather", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "The bazaar of Arg Varkana is under high brick domes interconnected with vaulted corridors. All kinds of goods from every town in and around the Varkana region are traded here. It's usually crowded, but today even more so, thanks to the holidays and celebrations. You prefer to avoid going too far in the bazaar right now.\n\nThe exits are to the east, north and west.\n\nAmong the nearby merchandise an art stand catches your attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the art stand", "response": "Lots of art supplies for sale. You just love examining all those tools and equipment. Now that you think of it, you might need to buy a new quill pen here if you can't get one elsewhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the pen", "response": "They seem to cost at least one copper coin. You don't have any money.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "You doubt you can make it to the other side of bazaar easily. You'd rather wait until it's less crowded.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You make your way through the crowd and get out of the bazaar.\n\nYou're in a sunlit plaza which is abundantly decorated with rose bushes and cypresses. Public buildings such as the town hall and guild headquarters encircle the plaza. Their golden-ochre stone, blue-glazed mud brick masonry and crenellated walls are some of the finest in the town.\n\nNorthwards from here there's a giant \"U\" shaped cavity in the mountain's natural formation. The town stretches to northeast and northwest.\n\nThe staircase on the north leads downward to the cliffside balcony, which overlooks the land far below. The bazaar is to the south, and the square is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see some town guards scattered around the place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cavity", "response": "The cavity starts in the middle of the mountain and continues northward, making the mountain and Arg Varkana itself roughly look like a crescent. In middle of the crescent and just down the stairs on your north is the cliffside balcony where people gather on special occasions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the guards", "response": "Town guards are dressed in their colorful uniform. They're mostly talking to each other. There's occasional laughter here and there. Due to the absence of serious threats in these times, you can tell their task is no longer as challenging as it used to be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go the town hall", "response": "Most of the public buildings are closed for holidays.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "The natural terraced balcony is surrounded by ornate gardens and overlooks the deep canyon down below. It's a popular spot for celebrations and other public events.\n\nNumerous tables and chairs are placed here, and waiters are moving about placing plates and cutlery on them. Looks like preparations for a lofty lunch are under way.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the town center.\n\nYou can also see some waiters here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the canyon", "response": "Beautiful sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na glow orb (providing light)\nan empty ink bottle\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)\na feather", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine gardens", "response": "Nice decorative plants.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "You're in a sunlit plaza which is abundantly decorated with rose bushes and cypresses. Public buildings such as the town hall and guild headquarters encircle the plaza. Their golden-ochre stone, blue-glazed", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "mud brick masonry and crenellated walls are some of the finest in the town.\n\nNorthwards from here there's a giant \"U\" shaped cavity in the mountain's natural formation. The town stretches to northeast and northwest.\n\nThe staircase on the north leads downward to the cliffside balcony, which overlooks the land far below. The bazaar is to the south, and the square is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see some town guards scattered around the place.\n\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "You go walking in the streets and alleys for a while. Finding nothing of interest, you head back to the town center.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in a sunlit plaza which is abundantly decorated with rose bushes and cypresses. Public buildings such as the town hall and guild headquarters encircle the plaza. Their golden-ochre stone, blue-glazed mud brick masonry and crenellated walls are some of the finest in the town.\n\nNorthwards from here there's a giant \"U\" shaped cavity in the mountain's natural formation. The town stretches to northeast and northwest.\n\nThe staircase on the north leads downward to the cliffside balcony, which overlooks the land far below. The bazaar is to the south, and the square is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see some town guards scattered around the place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk down to the school, and find the gates closed as you expected. The classes will begin after the grape harvest is usually done, which is in a month. You return to the square.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put cat in the bottle", "response": "It's an ink bottle; you'd rather to respect its purpose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You walk into a shady circular place, which your mother used to humorously call \"park of the youth\" due to the ironic fact of it being a meeting point for old aunties and uncles. Some benches lie in the park, one of which is occupied by an old couple who are busy talking to each other. Behind them you can see a kingberry bush.\n\nThe terrace and your room are to the west, and the vineyard is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the berries", "response": "You find some ripe kingberries. While picking them, you discover a ribbon in the bush and take it too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ribbon", "response": "It's a red ribbon. Used to tie a little girl's hair no doubt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ribbon", "response": "You weave a thin braid on the side of your face and fasten its end with the ribbon. You then blend it with the rest of your loose hair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the berries in bottle", "response": "You carefully press the kingberries, and let the dark juice drip into the ink bottle. Once you collect a good amount of ink, you eat the remains and lick your fingers clean.\n\nNow you have a bottle of kingberry juice. You hold it up in admiration.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink juice", "response": "You take a small sip. It's very tasty...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the old couple", "response": "The couple are resting their old bones in this pleasant, quiet place. A luxury you'll have aplenty when you're their age.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the couple about the old age", "response": "The old woman shakes her head and points vaguely to your direction, and goes on about how life is getting worse and worse for the youth these days. You feel slightly depressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the couple", "response": "During their conversation, the old man suddenly breaks into a laughter which turns into a series of coughs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "You are on the open terrace by your room. The way to the north is blocked by the high walls of a private estate surrounded by tall trees.\n\nSome stairs lead downward, to a shady park to the east and eventually to the vineyard in the southeast. More stairs lead upward to the west. Your room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "West", "response": "You enter the bath hall near your home. This is a round hall with a single hexagonal pillar at the center. Bath chambers line the wall, forming a semicircle, and mirrored dressers are placed around the central pillar. There are some chests at the entrance to keep people's extra belongings. Above them, clean bath towels are hung from the wall.\n\nHot water in this bath is drawn from a natural source, reducing the burden of warming up the water for the bathkeepers. No one's bathing at the moment, since most people wake up at dawn... The entrance is to the east, and the swimming pool is to the south.\n\nYou can see Nivanen and Hairdresser Rana here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Nivanen", "response": "\"Once I've washed my hair I'll go and prepare for lunch. You know, they'll be dining in the cliffside balcony today! I don't want to miss that. Oh, and if you find Rasha would you please bring him here? I want to wash him too. I can't go looking for him like this, with my hair wrapped in this awful paste.\" She gives you a pleading look.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Rana", "response": "\"Nice to see you, Farahnaaz,\" she says without raising her head from her origami model.\n\nNivanen looks at you from the mirror. \"See what she's done to me?\" she says while pointing to her head. She gestures her other hand in Rana's direction, who grins without looking up from her work. \"Now I must wait here until the herbs do their marvel to my hair. It was her idea, not mine,\" her voice turns into a murmur. \"I just showed her the sachet of herbs I got from apothecary.\" She looks up at you again, \"It's just so... boring!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about Ardavaan", "response": "\"Awesome. We can go and see him after lunch, if you want,\" she grins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the towel", "response": "You'd take one before going to wash or swim. But currently you don't want to do either.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bath", "response": "What do you want to bath?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bath", "response": "In the bath chambers one can take a hot shower and bathe. They're all empty at the moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "South", "response": "The swimming pool is delightful at times like this; everybody's gone after their daily business and it's empty. The water reflects the sunlight from the windowed roof above.\n\nThe only exit is to the bath hall to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dive in the pool", "response": "Reluctant to get all wet, but still tempted to feel the water, you sit on the steps and dip your bare feet into the pool for a while. Once satisfied, you get up and put your shoes back on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "North", "response": "This is a round hall with a single hexagonal pillar at the center. Bath chambers line the wall, forming a semicircle, and mirrored dressers are placed around the central pillar. There are some chests at the entrance to keep people's extra belongings. Above them, clean bath towels are hung from the wall.\n\nThe entrance is to the east, and the swimming pool is to the south.\n\nYou can see Nivanen and Hairdresser Rana here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search chests", "response": "The chests are empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dressers", "response": "Mirrored dressers are placed around the hexagonal pillar. They're usually used by those who've taken their bath and want to tidy up their hair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Rasha here.\n\nYou go strolling among the vines for a while. You find nothing out of the ordinary and come back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Rasha", "response": "You take one step towards the cat, but he casually goes the same distance away from you. Maybe according to some feline concept of private space.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the ribbon to Rasha", "response": "\"Hiss!\" You now have some stripes on your skin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of kingberry juice\na ribbon (being worn)\na glow orb (providing light)\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)\na feather", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the ink bottle to Rasha", "response": "Rasha is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the feather to Rasha", "response": "It'd be a pity to ruin such a rare feather only to impress a cat. You'd prefer a less regrettable substitute.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the ribbon to Rasha", "response": "Rasha looks at the ribbon as you show it and drag it temptingly out of his reach. His pupils get wide and he lies down in a camouflaging fashion, tracking his prey. Maybe he'd let go of his prudence and come nearer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Some benches lie in the park, one of which is occupied by an old couple who are busy talking to each other. Behind them you can see a kingberry bush.\n\nThe terrace and your room are to the west, and the vineyard is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the ribbon to Rasha", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Rasha here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cat", "response": "You take one step towards the cat, but he casually goes the same distance away from you. Maybe according to some feline concept of private space.\n\nRasha regains his composure, mentally forgetting your ribbon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave ribbon", "response": "You take one step towards the cat, but he casually goes the same distance away from you. Maybe according to some feline concept of private space.\n\nYou look ridiculous waving the ribbon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the ribbon to the cat", "response": "Rasha crawls closer on his big belly, all his attention focused on the ribbon. His flanks bump left and right as he adjusts his thick hindlegs for a jump. He no longer pays any attention to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cat", "response": "You give the ribbon one final tempting pull as Rasha leaps over it. While biting at the ribbon, he ignores your two hands as you grab him from under his plump arms and lift his heavy body. When he realizes he's been lifted, he groans and chews at the ribbon stubbornly.\n\n[Picture number 4 here.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet rasha", "response": "He pulls back his head and raises a clawed paw in order to defend himself if need be. You can't help but to snarl at him, which only proves his point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is a round hall with a single hexagonal pillar at the center. Bath chambers line the wall, forming a semicircle, and mirrored dressers are placed around the central pillar. There are some chests at the entrance to keep people's extra belongings. Above them, clean bath towels are hung from the wall.\n\nThe entrance is to the east, and the swimming pool is to the south.\n\nYou can see Nivanen and Hairdresser Rana here.\n\nThe swimming pool is delightful at times like this; everybody's gone after their daily business and it's empty. The water reflects the sunlight from the windowed roof above.\n\nThe only exit is to the bath hall to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "What do you want to swim in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the cat to Rana", "response": "\"Pesky cat. I had to put him out when I was attending to my customers.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the cat", "response": "\"Meeow!\" \"Ooh look who's come to see me!\" The cat presses his head against her chin, purring as she laughs, then jumps down and turns around her feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Rana", "response": "She's too preoccupied with her origami model to talk further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You dance to an imaginary rhythm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get model", "response": "She slaps your hand. \"Don't touch. I'm still working on it, you see.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the origami", "response": "A gorgeous, intricate work, resembling a composite beast. You wonder how many hours it has taken her so far, and how much longer it will take until it's finished.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow", "response": "What do you want Nivanen to follow?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yourself", "response": "Nivanen has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Your room is cozy and comfortable with meticulously selected furniture and decoration. A mirrored dresser is placed near the open window, with a small marble basin and a pitcher next to it. And at the foot of your bed there is a chest.\n\nThe only exit is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the bed", "response": "It is clean. You wouldn't allow spiders in your room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You take the path westward which leads to a square in the town.\n\nYou see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Engraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.\n\nYou see Ardavaan's vehicle leaning next to a pillar.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You climb down the staircase.\n\nYou are in the bookcrafter's workshop, a spacious hall for copying, illustrating and repairing books where artisans like yourself work.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the library.\n\nYou can see your colleague Arjang here. He is sitting behind his work desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bottle to Arjang", "response": "\"Many thanks! Now with luck I'll finish this map very soon and pass it on. Neat work eh?\" You agree it's very well done. He fills his ink pot and hands you back the remainder of the kingberry juice. He goes back to his work, with a considerably better morale.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about map", "response": "(Arjang's works)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss arjang", "response": "You let your long, wavy hair cascade down on his desk as you lean toward him for a kiss. He gasps. \"Farahnaaz! Need I explain again why loose hair has no place in the workshop? And please stand back, I can't work with your shadow on my map. I'll let you examine it thoroughly once it's finished, I promise.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the feather in the ink", "response": "The feather's shaft is not cut to make a decent quill. You could draw steadier lines with a fingernail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kick arjang", "response": "He firmly holds you back \"Careful, girl! I won't have these papers creased only because you don't look where you're walking... uh, sorry for the ink stain. But be careful! Nice outfit anyways.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the outfit", "response": "You're wearing a maroon leather top and pants. A nice gift from Bastovaan, the old beast tamer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "\"Wait...\" You turn back as Arjang calls you. \"What's that red feather you're carrying? It's beautiful, and if it's what I think it is...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the feather to Arjang", "response": "He inspects the feather carefully, balancing it between his fingers \"This... is magnificent. It's indeed from a goknous. Where did you get it? It doesn't matter. What matters is, I can make you an exceptional quill out of it. Wait a minute...\"\n\nHe searches around the desk and gathers a knife, a ruler, a pair of tweezers and some other tools. Shortly after, he hands you a premium quality quill pen. \"Here's something to recompense for the ink errand.\" He winks at you and returns to his work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nYou're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nThe museum is a tidy hall filled with various exhibits, ranging from artworks and crafts and old objects to archeological findings.\n\nDisplay cases, shelves and tables occupy the most possible space without making it difficult to walk. A glass cabinet containing old books in a corner draws your attention.\n\nThe only exit is back down the staircase.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na quill pen\na bottle of kingberry juice\na ribbon (being worn)\na glow orb (providing light)\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cases", "response": "Every article is neatly and painstakingly labelled and placed where it belongs: display cases, pedestals, tables, shelves or walls. You admire the order.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stand", "response": "Lots of art supplies for sale. You just love examining all those tools and equipment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You make your way through the crowd and get out of the bazaar.\n\nYou're in a sunlit plaza which is abundantly decorated with rose bushes and cypresses. Public buildings such as the town hall and guild headquarters encircle the plaza. Their golden-ochre stone, blue-glazed mud brick masonry and crenellated walls are some of the finest in the town.\n\nNorthwards from here there's a giant \"U\" shaped cavity in the mountain's natural formation. The town stretches to northeast and northwest.\n\nThe staircase on the north leads downward to the cliffside balcony, which overlooks the land far below. The bazaar is to the south, and the square is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see some town guards scattered around the place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You're in a sunlit plaza which is abundantly decorated with rose bushes and cypresses. Public buildings such as the town hall and guild headquarters encircle the plaza. Their golden-ochre stone, blue-glazed mud brick masonry and crenellated walls are some of the finest in the town.\n\nNorthwards from here there's a giant \"U\" shaped cavity in the mountain's natural formation. The town stretches to northeast and northwest.\n\nThe staircase on the north leads downward to the cliffside balcony, which overlooks the land far below. The bazaar is to the south, and the square is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see some town guards scattered around the place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "You go walking in the streets and alleys for a while. Finding nothing of interest, you head back to the town center.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the town hall", "response": "\"This is indeed too fine a day for trouble, isn't it, citizen? Stay out of harm and don't get involved in anything mischievous.\"\n\nMost of the public buildings are closed for holidays.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The bazaar of Arg Varkana is under high brick domes interconnected with vaulted corridors. All kinds of goods from every town in and around the Varkana region are traded here. It's usually crowded, but today even more so, thanks to the holidays and celebrations. You prefer to avoid going too far in the bazaar right now.\n\nThe exits are to the east, north and west.\n\nAmong the nearby merchandise an art stand catches your attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You doubt you can make it to the other side of bazaar easily. You'd rather wait until it's less crowded.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the art stand", "response": "Time passes.\n\nLots of art supplies for sale. You just love examining all those tools and equipment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You make your way through the crowd and get out of the bazaar.\n\nYou see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "The kids have better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "waiters: I don't suppose the waiters would care for that.\nchair: You won't need to carry a chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "What do you want to sit on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chair", "response": "You get onto the chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the lunch", "response": "(first taking the food)\nWait for the lunchtime, it'll be more appropriate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Cliffside balcony (on the chair)\nThe natural terraced balcony is surrounded by ornate gardens and overlooks the deep canyon down below. It's a popular spot for celebrations and other public events.\n\nNumerous tables and chairs are placed here, and waiters are moving about placing plates and cutlery on them. Looks like preparations for a lofty lunch are under way.\n\nYou can see some waiters here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lunch", "response": "Wait for the lunchtime, it'll be more appropriate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You'll have to get off the chair first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the waiters", "response": "(first taking the waiters)\nI don't suppose the waiters would care for that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the lunch", "response": "(first taking the food)\nWait for the lunchtime, it'll be more appropriate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get up", "response": "You get off the chair.\n\nThe natural terraced balcony is surrounded by ornate gardens and overlooks the deep canyon down below. It's a popular spot for celebrations and other public events.\n\nNumerous tables and chairs are placed here, and waiters are moving about placing plates and cutlery on them. Looks like preparations for a lofty lunch are under way.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the town center.\n\nYou can also see some waiters here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go fountain", "response": "With an impressive splash, you jump into the shallow water. Some of the kids are fascinated by the idea and hurry to join you...\n\nYou manage to get out before you're totally drenched.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the kids", "response": "Many of the town children are gathered here. You recognize some of them due to their frequent visits to the library and occasionally creeping into the workshop. Most of them are playing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Some benches lie in the park, one of which is occupied by an old couple who are busy talking to each other. Behind them you can see a kingberry bush.\n\nThe terrace and your room are to the west, and the vineyard is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is a round hall with a single hexagonal pillar at the center. Bath chambers line the wall, forming a semicircle, and mirrored dressers are placed around the central pillar. There are some chests at the entrance to keep people's extra belongings. Above them, clean bath towels are hung from the wall.\n\nThe entrance is to the east, and the swimming pool is to the south.\n\nYou can see Rasha, Nivanen and Hairdresser Rana here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get hairpin", "response": "You already have those.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about the ambassadors", "response": "\"They seemed to be ok; none of them was wearing an Ember medallion. You don't need to worry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wash cat", "response": "\"Hiss!\" You now have some stripes on your skin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about Library", "response": "\"I won't step into that place now that the school's over! You surely have nerves to live in there.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the platform", "response": "A conventional landing spot for landing hawks, drakes, or - if from a Sarvegnian community or something similar - airborn vehicles. It's made from stone, and is circular, measuring about four meters in diameter. Three crystalline glow orbs are inlaid within its brim to make it recognizable at night.\n\nSome of the wild herbs around the platform are burnt. From those and the fresh oil stains you conclude someone has landed here recently. However, it's an obsolete platform, too far from any functioning nest to be practical.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jewelry", "response": "Your jewelry include armbands, a torc, hairpins and earrings that usually accompany you during the day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou take the path westward which leads to a square in the town.\n\nYou see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Engraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.\n\nYou see Ardavaan's vehicle leaning next to a pillar.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ardavaan about book", "response": "(the books)\n\"Much that has faded from memory may be reawakened through written words... If you know where to look.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rugs", "response": "They seem to be old. They contain animal and floral patterns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vehicle", "response": "It's a one-man vehicle with a saddle instead of a seat; less cozy but easier to manoeuvre. It has a transparent shield in front to protect the pilot at high speed. It's bronze in color and has been damaged and patched up in various places and needs cleaning. Even though Ashtartan-made, it can't be one of those fabulous ones Nivanen saw", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the quill in the ink", "response": "last night.\n\nYou dip the quill in ink. However, you still need a paper to draw on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang for the paper", "response": "\"Sorry, but I really need what's left of our paper supply. Besides, you don't have any commissions right now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about the poetry book", "response": "\"Due to this map and a dozen more works I cannot look into new comissions. That's what idle artisans are for, don't you think?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about Houtan", "response": "\"He tends to everything with genuine care while he makes you think all he does is relax behind his desk or brew his aromatic tea. I like him.\" You nod in agreement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about the poetry book", "response": "\"I wouldn't hinder you of course. But I'd suggest you wait for the attendants open the window shutters upstairs after lunch so you can find what you seek.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "Librarian Houtan has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tables", "response": "The lunch will be served on these tables.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chairs", "response": "Simple wooden chairs are placed around the tables.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "What do you want to sit on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the chair", "response": "You get onto the chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the waiter", "response": "They seem to be fairly busy and you don't feel like disturbing them. You don't need anything for the moment anyways.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat", "response": "What do you want to eat?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the food", "response": "The food that's being prepared smells fantastic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell food", "response": "The food smells very good!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the food", "response": "Nothing is on sale.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Cliffside balcony (on the chair)\nThe natural terraced balcony is surrounded by ornate gardens and overlooks the deep canyon down below. It's a popular spot for celebrations and other public events.\n\nNumerous tables and chairs are placed here, and waiters are moving about placing plates and cutlery on them. Looks like preparations for a lofty lunch are under way.\n\nYou can see some waiters here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean pool", "response": "\"The pools are too slippery. I might get hurt.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stones", "response": "Those seem to be a part of the statues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the javelin", "response": "They're fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the beast", "response": "This statue represents a fabulous beast, which resembles a winged lion with ram horns, on whose back the goddess would ride out from her home at the source of the sacred river Surana on top of high mountains to visit lands and peoples (there is a debate on the location of the mountains; some even go so far to suggest they are somewhere in an old, distant world).\n\nThe lion's head and eyes are inlaid with colorful stones and the scaly neck is covered with a glistening green enamel. Senmervae's images often adorn schools, libraries and scientific books, because people associate it with science and knowledge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk down to the school, and find the gates closed as you expected. The classes will begin after the grape harvest is usually done, which is in a month. You return to the square.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You cross the shady park, and climb up the stairs to reach the terrace.\n\nYou are on the open terrace by your room. The way to the north is blocked by the high walls of a private estate surrounded by tall trees.\n\nSome stairs lead downward, to a shady park to the east and eventually to the vineyard in the southeast. More stairs lead upward to the west. Your room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the estate", "response": "It's the house of an old surgeon and his wife. You see them often, but you have never seen much of their house due to the walls and the ancient trees that surround it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the walls", "response": "No way, not again...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Your room is cozy and comfortable with meticulously selected furniture and decoration. A mirrored dresser is placed near the open window, with a small marble basin and a pitcher next to it. And at the foot of your bed there is a chest.\n\nThe only exit is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open chest", "response": "The chest contains some clean clothes. You rummage a bit until you select an outfit. Once you have changed your clothes, you close the chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open chest", "response": "tones. Your favorite color combination.\n\nThe chest contains some clean clothes. You rummage a bit until you select an outfit. Once you have changed your clothes, you close the chest.\n\nYou're now wearing a hand printed silk dress in gold and lapis lazuli tones. Your favorite color combination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open chest", "response": "The chest contains some clean clothes. You rummage a bit until you select an outfit. Once you have changed your clothes, you close the chest.\n\nYou're now wearing a hand printed silk dress in gold and lapis lazuli tones. Your favorite color combination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the basin", "response": "A small white stone basin is installed on a protrusion from the wall. Next to it there's a pitcher filled with water you use to wash your face and hands. For a real watery experience however, you'd go to a bath hall and pool not far from here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are on the open terrace by your room. The way to the north is blocked by the high walls of a private estate surrounded by tall trees.\n\nSome stairs lead downward, to a shady park to the east and eventually to the vineyard in the southeast. More stairs lead upward to the west. Your room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about the dinner", "response": "Mirrored dressers are placed around the hexagonal pillar. They're usually used by those who've taken their bath and want to tidy up their hair.\n\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Hairdresser Rana has better things to do.\n\nThe swimming pool is delightful at times like this; everybody's gone after their daily business and it's empty. The water reflects the sunlight from the windowed roof above.\n\nThe only exit is to the bath hall to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the roof", "response": "Daylight infiltrates abundantly through the windowed roof.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Rana about the paper", "response": "(papers)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Ardavaan", "response": "He has dark hair, high brow and accented cheekbones, and carries a scar on his chin.\n\nHe's sitting on a rug while keeping his booted feet out. There are piles of books around him and he's currently studying a particularly heavy one which is laid open in front of him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ardavaan about the book", "response": "(the books)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the book", "response": "The books are diverse but most seem to be on mythological topics. A particularly heavy one lies open on the rug. You recognize it with no difficulty; this book was once repaired by yourself under Behzaad's direction when you were a new apprentice.\n\nThe heavy book contains praises to spirits, elements, constellations and gods. Including records of the offerings and libations to those entities from the kings, queens and heros, and the constructions that were built for their love and honor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ardavaan about Houtan", "response": "\"A resourceful man, with a suitable job.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ardavaan about the books", "response": "(the books)\n\"Much that has faded from memory may be reawakened through written words... If you know where to look.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ardavaan about Behzaad", "response": "\"So he has even been to your town. I knew the old jackal back in Ashtarta. He is a remarkable craftsman indeed... And you say, he just left the town?\"\n\nYou nod. \"Yesterday afternoon.\"\n\nHe looks away. \"Lucky him...\" You wait for him to continue, but he doesn't seem to intend to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ardavaan about everything", "response": "There is no reply.\n\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "The books are diverse but most seem to be on mythological topics. A particularly heavy one lies open on the rug. You recognize it with no difficulty; this book was once repaired by yourself under Behzaad's direction when you were a new apprentice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rug", "response": "They seem to be old. They contain animal and floral patterns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Mount vehicle", "response": "You reach for the handles and begin to mount the saddle, but a stare from the owner of the vehicle discourages you from going on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the rug", "response": "Those are fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lift rug", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the ribbon to Ardavaan", "response": "Ardavaan is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss ardavaan", "response": "Something about his sharp gaze freaks you out. No way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss houtan", "response": "To express your affection, you blow a kiss to Librarian Houtan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Houtan", "response": "Houtan is a good-natured, merry, elderly man who loves to talk (and he's good at that; he always has things to say on various topics) with a red face, thining hair, and blond scrolled moustaches. He attends to the library very well, giving a lot more than what his job demands of him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about Ardavaan", "response": "Librarian Houtan rubs his chin, trying to remember where he left off. \"Hmm. Yes, he was very dry and nearly hostile, until I talked about the topics that attracted his attention.\"\n\nHe pauses for a while, studying you, then adds, \"Hmm, he's not social and appreciates his privacy here so I did not inform anyone of his arrival. But... maybe you can talk to him further? However, he lacks a night's sleep and seemed frustrated after being encircled by fair women of your age. So be careful. This fresh opportunity, as well as his unguarded enthusiasm, may fade after official meetings and new ties.\"\n\nEven though he didn't mention it, you can tell he is somehow worried. You're not quite convinced however, and he seems to read it on your face. You weigh your thoughts before you decide to discuss the topic further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Houtan about Ardavaan", "response": "Your further inquisition lightens him up. \"I know you so well that I believe you'll truly benefit from this precious opportunity to discuss things first-handedly with an Ashtartan. This one in particular seems to have common interests with you, which you could use to start a conversation with him. In a wider scope...\"\n\nHe pauses a moment, his expression getting serious, \"It might give us a thin chance to start our relations with less influence from... businessmen, politicans and soldiers.\" He utters the last words with a hint of disgust. \"Sarvegnians will follow Ashtartans' example, remember when I told you this. We better let it be as incorrupt an example as possible.\"\n\nEven though you don't share his concern (which makes you feel a bit... guilty) you don't have the heart to refuse him a request; something he almost never makes. You finally agree to talk to Ardavaan, which seems to be the only thing Librarian Houtan hoped to hear. He regains his composure and smiles at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Engraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.\n\nYou see Ardavaan's vehicle leaning next to a pillar.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Ardavaan", "response": "Gathering your courage, you find a place on the other side of the book pile and fetch a cushion to sit on. Ardavaan, who was momentarily distracted, turns his attention back to the book before him. You try to sound as unobtrusive as possible, \"Well, um... if I can help you with finding something, just let me know. I work here. And I'm familiar with such topics,\" you point to the big book he's studying.\n\n\"You're... familiar with the written myths. I'll try not to forget it.\" His eyes remain fixed on the book. You frown, and can't help retaliating, \"To put it in such a crude manner, yes. This one we're looking at, for example, took two months of work. I redid the binding, repaired the pictures, and even some of the text. I'm indeed familiar with the written myths.\" You instantly regret your tactlessness. That wasn't quite you.\n\nHe trails the contours of a picture with his fingertip, \"So, you repair books?\"\n\n\"Mainly, yes. I mean, I do illustrations in the bookcrafters' workshop. Especially gilded images.\"\n\n\"You must receive plenty of comissions.\"\n\nHis brief compliment doesn't totally cheer you, but you recover your modesty, \"Oh... not often these days. And it's just thanks to my mentor, Behzaad, that I managed to make it this far.\"\n\n\"He chooses the books for you?\" You'd swear his gaze just intensified. You reply nevertheless, \"Seldom, his apprentices share the work themselves becau-\" \"Has... Behzaad... chosen a book for you?\"\n\nYou feel a tingling in the back of your neck. \"Yes, recently he told me to repair an old poem book from the museum's collection just before he left town, which I haven't done yet. Uh... what?\" The tingling goes as quickly as it came. You wonder if it was your imagination.\n\nA smile crosses his lips, \"From what I hear, the last task he requests from his pupils is usually an extraordinary one. I wonder what's in that old poem book he asked you to repair. Something exciting, no doubt.\" He carefully closes the big book before him. \"I must go and join the other ambassadors now. I wish I could stay here longer, or visit the old temple over there to do a drawing of Senmervae. But my time is short...\" He gets up and starts tidying the books on a table.\n\n\"Perhaps I can do it? The drawing, I mean,\" you ask hesitantly.\n\n\"Ah, actually I'd really appreciate that. If you have time, of course.\"\n\n\"I do, besides, it's a pleasant thing to draw. See you at lunch, I guess.\"\n\nYou watch as he mounts his vehicle and silently glides away. You rub your neck and wonder what Houtan will think... You shrug; diplomacy has never been your forte.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Ardavaan", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You climb down the staircase.\n\nYou are in the bookcrafter's workshop, a spacious hall for copying, illustrating and repairing books where artisans like yourself work.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the library.\n\nYou can see your colleague Arjang here. He is sitting behind his work desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the paper", "response": "\"Sorry, but I really need what's left of our paper supply. I guess your drawing has to wait, unless you go get your paper from elsewhere.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Arjang about the paper", "response": "(the papers)\nThere is no reply.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "You are in the bookcrafter's workshop, a spacious hall for copying, illustrating and repairing books where artisans like yourself work.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the library.\n\nYou can see your colleague Arjang here. He is sitting behind his work desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nYou're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Librarian Houtan here.\n\nEngraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "East leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Rasha and Nivanen here.\n\nNivanen is now dressed up in her colorful guard suit and carries her six weapons on her back. Rasha wrinkles his nose and watches you suspiciously.\n\n\"Ha, thanks again for bringing Rasha to me. What's up? ... I'm going to the town center. Remember the lunch will be served on the cliffside balcony, and it's your turn to be my guest.\" You thank her and assure her that you'll be there.\n\nYou cross the shady park, and climb up the stairs to reach the terrace.\n\nYou are on the open terrace by your room. The way to the north is blocked by the high walls of a private estate surrounded by tall trees.\n\nSome stairs lead downward, to a shady park to the east and eventually to the vineyard in the southeast. More stairs lead upward to the west. Your room is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a round hall with a single hexagonal pillar at the center. Bath chambers line the wall, forming a semicircle, and mirrored dressers are placed around the central pillar. There are some chests at the entrance to keep people's extra belongings. Above them, clean bath towels are hung from the wall.\n\nThe entrance is to the east, and the swimming pool is to the south.\n\nYou can see Hairdresser Rana here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the paper", "response": "(papers to Hairdresser Rana)\nHairdresser Rana has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Rana for the paper", "response": "(the paper)\nKnowing Hairdresser Rana, she will probably allow you to have one of her artistic provisions if you ask her for it nicely.\n\n(papers)\n\"Mind giving me a sheet of paper please? I need a neat one for drawing.\"\n\n\"Of course not. Here, do you like this speckled beige sheet? It's actually more suited for drawing than origami.\"\n\n\"Yes, many thanks!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the paper", "response": "(the paper)\nA nice sheet of paper from Hairdresser Rana's exquisite supply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na paper\na quill pen\na bottle of kingberry juice\na ribbon (being worn)\na glow orb (providing light)\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are on the open terrace by your room. The way to the north is", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "blocked by the high walls of a private estate surrounded by tall trees.\n\nSome stairs lead downward, to a shady park to the east and eventually to the vineyard in the southeast. More stairs lead upward to the west. Your room is to the south.\n\nRows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Rasha and Nivanen here.\n\nRasha continues walking to the direction of the square, looking back once in a while to see if his mistress is following.\n\n\"I'm very hunrgy! Well, see you in the cliffside balcony...\" Nivanen walks off the road to the west, occasionally calling after Rasha.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You take the path westward which leads to a square in the town.\n\nYou see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.\n\nYou can also see Nivanen here.\n\nYou climb a steep road upward and enter the old temple.\n\nThe interior of this old temple is still relatively intact. There are shallow pools of water, and a beautiful dome overhead. The water is provided by a natural source boiling out of the mountain rocks and flowing from a wall behind a pair of statues. One of the statues represents the goddess Amortaad and the other her beast counterpart Senmervae.\n\nYou see a little boy sitting on a bench in here.\n\nAt the foot of the statues you see some flowers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You draw Senmervae", "response": "You put the paper and the ink bottle on the floor and carefully start tracing the figure on the paper. After a while, the little boy comes up and watches from behind your shoulder as you add the details.\n\n\"How do you do that?\" He finally breaks the silence.\n\n\"Drawing? I train a lot. It's my hobby and job,\" you reply while doing the finishing touches.\n\nHe leans on you as you hold up the finished drawing, his nose almost touching the paper. \"Whoa! It's superb!\" Due to his sudden weight on you, your elbow tips the kingberry juice bottle which rolls away and crashes into a shallow pool. You sigh in relief for holding the drawing up. He apologizes and gets back on the bench, promising to clean up the mess later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the drawing", "response": "It's a drawing of the statue of Senmervae in the old temple, signed by your own hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pool", "response": "The fountains don't work and the mossy pools need cleaning. Still, stream water flows gently in the pools.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The natural terraced balcony is surrounded by ornate gardens and overlooks the deep canyon down below. It's a popular spot for celebrations and other public events.\n\nNumerous tables and chairs are occupied by townspeople, on which tasty food and good wine are served. Waiters constantly move about and tend to every request.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the town center.\n\nYou can also see Nivanen, Ashtartan ambassadors, some friends, some townspeople, Marita, Lady Atossa, Rasha and some waiters here.\n\nNivanen beckons you to a nearby table populated by a group of your friends. You both go there and sit down, getting involved in conversation and eating.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "What do you want to sit on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the chair", "response": "But you're already on the chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ambassadors", "response": "They are handsome men and women indeed, all wearing neat gold-embroidered suits decorated with medals and insignia. They are seated at two tables, with Lady Atossa and some other high-ranking officials, and are busily engaged in conversation.\n\nHowever, you can't find Ardavaan anywhere among them. This suddenly alarms you... Looks like he didn't go joining his colleagues as he had told you. You wonder what Nivanen would make out of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lunch", "response": "Saffron rice with roasted almonds, turkey in pomegranate and walnut sauce, barberry glazed chicken... along with sherbet and wine. Everything at its best.\n\nYou notice Rasha climbing up the stairs. He then quickly runs off and disappears from sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say MMMMMM pomegranate", "response": "Whom do you want to say that to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Atossa", "response": "She's sitting far from you. At any case you wouldn't dare disturb her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Atossa", "response": "The sovereign of Varkana (also called Argbaan, which in local dialect means \"the guardian of the fortified town\") looks strikingly regal, which is not due to her glistening tiara or amazing blue dress but something more profound.\n\nShe's seated at the same table with some Ashtartan ambassadors and diplomats. But she doesn't quite participate in the seemingly heated conversation which is going on around the table and has a rather thoughtful air about her.\n\nMarita, her cheetah companion, is snoozing at her feet.\n\n[Picture number 6 here.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Marita", "response": "While still a cub this cheetah was rescued from a fire incident in the woods by a group of firefighters accompanied by the then Argbaan to-be, Lady Atossa herself. She favors Marita a lot and the two are good friends. Some even say Marita is likely to express the feelings her mistress hides behind a calm face.\n\nMarita has stretched her graceful, variegated body on the floor near the table. She's seemingly snoozing at her mistress's feet. Her long tail, however, is tapping on the floor in an uncomfortable rhythm.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Cliffside balcony (on the chair)\nThe natural terraced balcony is surrounded by ornate gardens and overlooks the deep canyon down below. It's a popular spot for celebrations and other public events.\n\nNumerous tables and chairs are occupied by townspeople, on which tasty food and good wine are served. Waiters constantly move about and tend to every request.\n\nYou can see Nivanen, Ashtartan ambassadors, some friends, some townspeople, Marita, Lady Atossa and some waiters here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Nivanen", "response": "Nivanen is dressed up in her colorful guard suit. She's placed her weapons next to her chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine weapons", "response": "The traditional weapon set of a Varkana warrior consists of a sword, an axe, a mace, a bow, a javelin and a baton. All are slender-built and are strapped on the back. Sometimes the weapon in which they specialize is larger, which is not the case for Nivanen's axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nivanen about Ardavaan", "response": "You anxiously tell her about not seeing Ardavaan among the ambassadors, and that he hasn't actually joined them or signaled his arrival since he came.\n\n\"Looks a bit suspicious. A shy ambassador who comes here for... drawing and reading books. Hmm... Librarian Houtan could do with more prudence. But for now, I'll go and take a look. Perhaps he just got lost in the town bazaar or something. He'd surely regret missing this lunch.\" Nivanen says as she takes her weapons to strap them to her back. \"Me too, I hope he's just lost...\" \"Let's go search, and perhaps ask for aid.\"\n\nNivanen excuses the two of you from the others at the table and hurries to the staircase, beckoning you to follow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You'll have to get off the chair first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get up", "response": "You get off the chair.\n\nThe natural terraced balcony is surrounded by ornate gardens and overlooks the deep canyon down below. It's a popular spot for celebrations and other public events.\n\nNumerous tables and chairs are occupied by townspeople, on which tasty food and good wine are served. Waiters constantly move about and tend to every request.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the town center.\n\nYou can also see Ashtartan ambassadors, some friends, some townspeople, Marita, Lady Atossa and some waiters here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You're in a sunlit plaza which is abundantly decorated with rose bushes and cypresses. Public buildings such as the town hall and guild headquarters encircle the plaza. Their golden-ochre stone, blue-glazed mud brick masonry and crenellated walls are some of the finest in the town.\n\nNorthwards from here there's a giant \"U\" shaped cavity in the mountain's natural formation. The town stretches to northeast and northwest.\n\nThe staircase on the north leads downward to the cliffside balcony, which overlooks the land far below. The bazaar is to the south, and the square is to the southeast.\n\nYou can see some town guards scattered around the place.\n\nYou can also see Nivanen here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fight Nivanen", "response": "She blocks your attack \"Hey, watch it you, flimsy!\"\n\nNivanen is telling a group of guards that an ambassador is missing, which makes them burst in laughter. \"I wish it was I who'd been tasting our best wine reserve and counting Ashtartans today, and you watching all of the town descend from these stairs. Profit from your time off before your patrol schedule, girl.\" Nivanen's face blushes in rage, making her look close to drunk.\n\n\"Well I hope you'll be rewarded for your superb vigilance. But I'm telling you he did NOT signal his arrival...\" \"And I'm telling you, you better watch your tone while wearing that uniform, you're embarrassing us...\" another guard snaps, while the one next to him stops him and adds calmly \"There are only eight Ashtartans in this town. I myself escorted them to the hotel last night. No more arrivals are expected. So, kindly go back to your lunch like a good recruit on her time off.\" \"Unlike some, I've never gotten drunk in public, old timer. Today's no exception.\"\n\nNivanen holds her chin up and comes to you. \"Well, unless you've dreamt up this Ardavaan we have to find him by ourselves.\" \"Trust me, he's real - you can ask Houtan if you don't believe me.\" \"I believe you. I'm sorry... Look, I'll go search in the bazaar. It might take some time. Meanwhile you can search anywhere else you can think of finding him; the old temple, vineyards, whatever. And I'll have a word with Librarian Houtan afterwards. See you soon I hope.\"\n\nNivanen takes the south road to the direction of bazaar and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Engraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.\n\nYou see Ardavaan's vehicle leaning next to a pillar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go the vehicle", "response": "You mount Ardavaan's vehicle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the vehicle", "response": "It's a one-man vehicle with a saddle instead of a seat; less cozy but easier to manoeuvre. It has a transparent shield in front to protect the pilot at high speed. It's bronze in color and has been damaged and patched up in various places and needs cleaning. Even though Ashtartan-made, it can't be one of those fabulous ones Nivanen saw last night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Mount vehicle", "response": "You are already riding Ardavaan's vehicle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na drawing\na quill pen\na ribbon (being worn)\na glow orb (providing light)\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Square (on Ardavaan's vehicle)\nYou see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Library's Terrace (on Ardavaan's vehicle)\nEngraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Square (on Ardavaan's vehicle)\nYou see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "East leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.\n\nLibrary's Terrace (on Ardavaan's vehicle)\nEngraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "East leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.\n\nYou walk down to the school, and find the gates closed as you expected. The classes will begin after the grape harvest is usually done, which is in a month. You return to the square.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Vineyard (on Ardavaan's vehicle)\nRows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east -", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nShady Park (on Ardavaan's vehicle)\nSome benches lie in the park, one of which is occupied by an old couple who are busy talking to each other. Behind them you can see a kingberry bush.\n\nThe terrace and your room are to the west, and the vineyard is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get off the vehicle", "response": "As you dismount, the vehicle weighs heavily on you and you fail to stabilize it. It falls to its side while you dodge. Something breaks in it with a solid clinging noise.\n\nSome benches lie in the park, one of which is occupied by an old couple who are busy talking to each other. Behind them you can see a kingberry bush.\n\nYou see Ardavaan's vehicle.\n\nThe terrace and your room are to the west, and the vineyard is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Engraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You cross Librarian Houtan who's leaving the library. He doesn't pay attention to you, as if you are not there. You turn and watch him continue his way south. You'd swear something was not right... You call him, but he doesn't stop.\n\nYou're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nThe museum is a tidy hall filled with various exhibits, ranging from artworks and crafts and old objects to archeological findings.\n\nDisplay cases, shelves and tables occupy the most possible space without making it difficult to walk. A glass cabinet containing old books in a corner draws your attention.\n\nThe only exit is back down the staircase.\n\nYou can also see Rasha and Ardavaan here.\n\n\"Farahnaaz... How kind of you to have brought us light.\" Rasha's eyes glitter from within Ardavaan's arms as he turns the cat from the display cases to let it face you. Ardavaan's eyes are closed but the cat is watching you intently. After being carefully placed on the ground, Rasha blinks a few times in confusion and Ardavaan opens his eyes. He comes to you and snatches the glow orb from your hand. \"You have our gratitude. A glow orb... I'm embarrassed it did not cross my mind.\"\n\nHe continues scanning the exhibits, your gaze and Rasha's following him. He suddenly halts, and brings the glow orb near a show case containing some old books. After a few seconds of fiddling with the lock with some strange metal wires, he opens the glass door and picks up the poem book. \"Despite my admiration for your craft, Farahnaaz, and your excitement for the task, I should keep this one away from your creative hands.\" You turn for the exit. \"Anyways, I'd be curious to know, why have you come here before the museum opens? If you don't mind explaining...\" He cocks his head to one side, spinning the glow orb in his hand. You struggle for an answer as he goes and stands between you and the exit. \"... So?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Ardavaan about Behzaad", "response": "\"So he has even been to your town. I knew the old jackal back in Ashtarta. He is a remarkable craftsman indeed... And you say, he just left the town?\"\n\nYou nod. \"Yesterday afternoon.\"\n\nHe looks away. \"Lucky him...\" You wait for him to continue, but he doesn't seem to intend to.\n\nIt'd be a good idea to convince him you're not here just to spy on him, improbable as it may sound...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na drawing\na quill pen\na ribbon (being worn)\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Poem", "response": "\"Yes, that's what I came here for.\"\n\nArdavaan is getting impatient.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss ardavaan", "response": "Something about his sharp gaze freaks you out. No way.\n\n\"So, assuming you've come for a stroll... I still cannot let you alarm others to come and chase me. But fatigue does not allow me to focus well, so don't fight or it'll be fatal.\" Without giving you any time to absorb his odd warning, his hands reach out for your head. Each finger is pressed on a point, resulting in a tingling sensation in your head and spine. On reflex you struggle to free yourself. He gasps, and the tingling spreads everywhere and you drift into a slumber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Ardavaan about Rasha", "response": "Please give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You climb down the staircase.\n\nYou are in the bookcrafter's workshop, a spacious hall for copying, illustrating and repairing books where artisans like yourself work.\n\nThe staircase leads up to the library.\n\nYou can see your colleague Arjang here. He's fallen asleep behind his desk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Arjang", "response": "You don't remember seeing Arjang sleeping at his desk before... and the map he was working on is nowhere to be seen. Perhaps he thought to remove it from the desk before taking a nap. It's quite possible; you nod to yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch Arjang", "response": "Keep your hands to yourself!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nYou're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "You climb up the staircase.\n\nThe museum is a tidy hall filled with various exhibits, ranging from artworks and crafts and old objects to archeological findings.\n\nDisplay cases, shelves and tables occupy the most possible space without making it difficult to walk. A glass cabinet containing old books in a corner draws your attention.\n\nThe only exit is back down the staircase.\n\nYou can also see Rasha and Ardavaan here.\n\n\"Farahnaaz... How kind of you to have brought us light.\" Rasha's eyes glitter from within Ardavaan's arms as he turns the cat from the display cases to let it face you. Ardavaan's eyes are closed but the cat is watching you intently. After being carefully placed on the ground, Rasha blinks a few times in confusion and Ardavaan opens his eyes. He comes to you and snatches the glow orb from your hand. \"You have our gratitude. A glow orb... I'm embarrassed it did not cross my mind.\"\n\nHe continues scanning the exhibits, your gaze and Rasha's following him. He suddenly halts, and brings the glow orb near a show case containing some old books. After a few seconds of fiddling with the lock with some strange metal wires, he opens the glass door and picks up the poem book. \"Despite my admiration for your craft, Farahnaaz, and your excitement for the task, I should keep this one away from your creative hands.\" You turn for the exit. \"Anyways, I'd be curious to know, why have you come here before the museum opens? If you don't mind explaining...\" He cocks his head to one side, spinning the glow orb in his hand. You struggle for an answer as he goes and stands between you and the exit. \"... So?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na drawing\na quill pen\na ribbon (being worn)\nsome jewelry (being worn)\nan outfit (being worn)\n\nIt'd be a good idea to convince him you're not here just to spy on him, improbable as it may sound...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the drawing to Ardavaan", "response": "\"Oh, you've already made the drawing of Senmervae? Interesting...\"\n\nYou give the drawing to Ardavaan. He holds it up and studies it for a moment \"Truly impressive... I regret not being able to reward you.\" You tell him not to think of it, while contemplating whether there's somebody around who could hear if you screamed. Even if someone could hear you, though, they probably wouldn't respond in time. \"Well, now that I got what I was looking for I must leave. Your face shows what you think...\" he smiles briefly \"... but believe me, I truly need this book, it's very important.\" His voice is slighty strained with weariness. He descends the staircase, with Rasha following him.\n\nYou hear him calling up \"And your friends will awaken in an hour, don't worry. All they need is some natural sleep. I was too tired to resort to something... more subtle.\"\n\nIt is now pitch dark in here!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "You climb down the staircase.\n\nYou're in the Library of Arg Varkana. It's a big but cozy hall lined with rows of bookshelves. Reading tables are at the center and by the large windows which allow sunlight during the day. A chandelier hung from the ceiling upstairs along with several glowstands scattered around the library provide extra illumination in the evening.\n\nSpiral stairs lead up to the museum, and down to the bookcrafters' workshop. The exit is to the south.\n\nYou can see Rasha and Ardavaan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Ardavaan", "response": "He has dark hair, high brow and accented cheekbones, and carries a scar on his chin.\n\nArdavaan hurries out of the library, with Rasha at his heels.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You see Nivanen coming up the road. \"Halt, Ashtartan!\" She calls out.\n\nYou can see Rasha and Ardavaan here.\n\nArdavaan seems to be confused. He gives you a poisonous look. \"Do you know what happened to my vehicle?\" You hesitate, \"Well, didn't it need repairs?\" \"You nuisance... I will...\" He turns to Nivanen and raises his hands in surrender.\n\n\"Ardavaan is it? Your arrival as an ambassador was not expected.\" He smirks, \"Now, that's surprising. So, they've sent only you to welcome the last ambassador?\" \"Sort of. Please come with me...\" \"Sure. I will follow your lead.\"\n\nYou tell Nivanen that he stole a book from the museum. He laughs. \"And she somehow disposed of my vehicle. Maybe you can arrest two thieves at a time?\" \"Don't move!\" \"I'm not. See?...\" As he raises his hands higher to prove his surrender, you see something sparkle out of the corner of your eye. For a brief moment Nivanen is distracted too, which is enough for Ardavaan's hands to reach and grab your head from behind. Nivanen warns him that he can't escape, but doesn't dare strike him with you at his mercy. Your head and spine start to tingle, and you think you hear Ardavaan talking to Nivanen...\n\n\"I will follow your lead, guard. Just as I said.\" Ardavaan lets go of Farahnaaz, who stands dazed before him. \"What did you do to her?!\" You try hard not to panic. Ardavaan motions you to unwield your axe, which you ignore. \"Your friend is bound to me for as long as I need her.\" He smiles menacingly, \"She deprived me of my vehicle, so it's only fair to make her pay for it. She's now in a trance. Lead me to the Royal Nest, raise no alarm, and all of us will be fine.\" Your gaze shifts from Ardavaan to Farahnaaz. You finally lower your axe, and reluctantly return it to your back strap. Rasha comes near you and rubs himself against your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na jeweled baton\na javelin\na bow\na mace\nan axe\na sword\na quiver (being worn)\nsome arrows\na guard uniform (being worn)\n\nArdavaan points to south. \"That way, I guess.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Engraved wooden pillars support a high wooden roof. Some chairs and tables have been brought here from the library's interior, as is usually done in warm seasons. There are even some rugs and cushions on the ground for more relaxed reading.\n\nThe entrance to the library is before you to the north.\n\nYou can see Farahnaaz, Rasha and Ardavaan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mace", "response": "Your mace is rougly shaped like a bull's head. You don't remember the mythological reference... It's Farahnaaz's kind of stuff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sword", "response": "It's a slightly-curved short sword. In Arg Varkana they forge blades light and swift.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bow", "response": "You're more into close combat, still, you'd make an acceptable markswoman.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine javelin", "response": "The only times you remember putting it to a real use was when you were helping a street sweeper unclog a water canal, and when you were trying to keep an old barn's gates shut against an angry bull.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the baton", "response": "This once-popular weapon can interfere with perception and concentration, which is handy for or against illusionists. Its gem is running out of charge though. Wasn't it for the Argbaan's insistance to not to abandon it (she has even ordered a new delivery of gems, a big waste of money in your opinion), no one would bother with this expensive weapon except for the traditional attire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan, Farahnaaz, Rasha and Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave baton", "response": "You look ridiculous waving the jeweled baton.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the baton to Farahnaaz", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.\n\nFarahnaaz doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bazaar of Arg Varkana is under high brick domes interconnected with vaulted corridors. All kinds of goods from every town in and around the Varkana region are traded here. It's usually crowded, but", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the baton on Ardavaan", "response": "today even more so, thanks to the holidays and celebrations.\n\nThe exits are to the east, north and west.\n\nThere are many people walking or loading and unloading stuff here, but you can eventually reach to the west of bazaar if you try. Rasha is groaning and hissing to the crowd, and the hair on his back stands up.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan, Farahnaaz and Rasha here.\n\nIt's not appropriate to use it in this way...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you make way Ardavaan follows you with Farahnaaz by his side. He tries to shield her from bumping into people and handcarts while controlling her steps. His teeth are clenched... You come to his aid by walking on the other side of Farahnaaz, worrying more for your friend than for him.\n\nOnce out of the bazaar, Ardavaan suddenly turns to you, \"Where is your cat?\" Without a word you run back to the bazaar.\n\nYou trace all your way back and finally find Rasha, who's been stamped on and run over without being noticed. There are cats who live in such places. But your poor Rasha was not one of them. You sit there for a long time, weeping, and ignore people's inquiries and consolation.\n\nWhen you finally get up and leave the bazaar, but you realize Ardavaan and Farahnaaz are nowhere to be seen. Only hours later you find out that they were spotted and halted by town guards, and fought to their death.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The bazaar of Arg Varkana is under high brick domes interconnected with vaulted corridors. All kinds of goods from every town in and around the Varkana region are traded here. It's usually crowded, but today even more so, thanks to the holidays and celebrations.\n\nThe exits are to the east, north and west.\n\nThere are many people walking or loading and unloading stuff here, but you can eventually reach to the west of bazaar if you try. Rasha is groaning and hissing to the crowd, and the hair on his back stands up.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan, Farahnaaz and Rasha here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack Ardavaan with baton", "response": "leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan, Farahnaaz, Rasha and Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Ardavaan", "response": "Trying to harm Ardavaan with the jeweled baton won't get you anywhere.\n\nHe has dark hair, high brow and accented cheekbones, and carries a scar on his chin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Farahnaaz", "response": "She seems to be in a sort of trance maintained by Ardavaan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pick up Rasha", "response": "You pick up Rasha.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw Rasha at Farahnaaz", "response": "You lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss ardavaan", "response": "Now that you think of it, he is rather tall and enticingly handsome. But in your current situation you don't feel attracted to him, or anyone else for that matter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack Farahnaaz with the baton", "response": "Trying to harm Farahnaaz with the jeweled baton won't get you anywhere.\n\nTrying to harm Farahnaaz with the jeweled baton won't get you anywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Ardavaan", "response": "He has dark hair, high brow and accented cheekbones, and carries a scar on his chin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss farahnaaz", "response": "To express your affection, you blow a kiss to Farahnaaz.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "\"A token from a misadventure.\"\n\nYou are carrying:\nRasha\na jeweled baton\na javelin\na bow\na mace\nan axe\na sword\na quiver (being worn)\nsome arrows\na guard uniform (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan, Farahnaaz and Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk down to the school, and find the gates closed as you expected. The classes will begin after the grape harvest is usually done, which is in a month. You return to the square.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the kids", "response": "Many of the town children are gathered here. Most of them are playing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack ardavaan", "response": "The kids have better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "\"That doesn't look like the right way to me,\" Ardavaan says, looking up from a map he's holding. \"Bring us to the Royal Nest, and no cheating.\" You nod and come back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Near the brink of the cliff the vines grow scarcer but more unruly and are gradually replaced with wild herbs. Before the brink there's a circular landing platform.\n\nUnder the cliff you can see a narrow section of the town ending at one of the minor town gates. Beyond the gate, and far below, lies the eastern meadow.\n\nThe only exit is to the west.\n\nYou can see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the map", "response": "That seems to belong to Ardavaan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attack ardavaan", "response": "Ardavaan grabs your wrist and punches you in the face with his other hand. The sound and feeling of the impact is nauseating, but you strike him hard with your free hand which has already drawn a weapon. Ardavaan growls in pain and beckons to Farahnaaz, who lunges towards you. You try to kick her back without harming her seriously, but your legs suddenly get numb and falter. As you fall, Ardavaan pulls Farahnaaz and limps backwards, holding an odd handgun in his other hand. He has a tormented, weary expression as he watches the paralyzation engulfing your body...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the mace", "response": "What do you want to use the mace on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the mace on the cliff", "response": "It's not appropriate to use it in this way...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mace", "response": "The stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.\n\nYour mace is rougly shaped like a bull's head. You don't remember the mythological reference... It's Farahnaaz's kind of stuff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Some benches lie in the park, one of which is occupied by an old couple who are busy talking to each other. Behind them you can see a kingberry bush.\n\nYou see Ardavaan's vehicle.\n\nThe terrace and Farahnaaz's room are to the west, and the vineyard is to the south.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.\n\nArdavaan walks to his damaged vehicle, observing its state. \"Nothing serious, but I cannot fix it without appropriate tools. It was a good idea to head for the Royal Nest after all.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine javelin", "response": "The only times you remember putting it to a real use was when you were helping a street sweeper unclog a water canal, and when you were trying to keep an old barn's gates shut against an angry bull.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cat", "response": "You pick up Rasha.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nRasha\na jeweled baton\na javelin\na bow\na mace\nan axe\na sword\na quiver (being worn)\nsome arrows\na guard uniform (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the baton", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nThis once-popular weapon can interfere with perception and concentration, which is handy for or against illusionists. Its gem is running out of charge though. Wasn't it for the Argbaan's insistance to not to abandon it (she has even ordered a new delivery of gems, a big waste of money in your opinion), no one would bother with this expensive weapon except for the traditional attire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Rows of vines stretch far and wide to the south, southeast and east - where they nearly reach the eastern cliffside. Occasionally the vines are made to climb circular wooden frames to form leafy pavilions.\n\nThe stone pathway leads to the square to the west, the shady park to the north, and eventually the terrace to the northwest. On the ground you see some drops of oil.\n\nYou can see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You take the path westward which leads to a square in the town.\n\nYou see a fountain with benches and potted plants in the middle of the square. There are roads leading in different directions.\n\nEast leads to the vineyards. The library is to the north. Northwest leads to the town center. The town bazaar is to the west. The school is to the south, and there's a road to an old temple to the southeast.\n\nYou can see many kids playing here.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan, Farahnaaz and Librarian Houtan here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The bazaar of Arg Varkana is under high brick domes interconnected with vaulted corridors. All kinds of goods from every town in and around the Varkana region are traded here. It's usually crowded, but today even more so, thanks to the holidays and celebrations.\n\nThe exits are to the east, north and west.\n\nThere are many people walking or loading and unloading stuff here, but you can eventually reach to the west of bazaar if you try. Rasha is groaning and hissing to the crowd, and the hair on his back stands up.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you make way Ardavaan follows you with Farahnaaz by his side. He tries to shield her from bumping into people and handcarts while controlling her steps. His teeth are clenched... You come to his aid by walking on the other side of Farahnaaz, worrying more for your friend than for him.\n\nOnce out of the bazaar, Ardavaan rubs his temples and murmurs he hopes he won't have to do it again. You put Rasha down. He seems happy to be on his feet again.\n\nThe old brick bridge overlooks a small market, and links the Royal Nest on northwest to the town bazaar on east.\n\nYou can see Ardavaan, Farahnaaz and Rasha here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Ardavaan stops you, \"It was painful enough to cross there once with Farahnaaz, we don't have to do it again.\" \"Well, I guess that's what it takes to rob someone of her will.\" \"It takes... a lot more than you can guess.\" You shrug.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Rasha", "response": "Rasha is your good old furry friend. He loves following you around.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The old brick bridge overlooks a small market, and links the Royal Nest on northwest to the town bazaar on east.\n\nYou can see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "Cargo terrace (Royal Nest)\nThe cargo terrace is a moderately sized platform for temporarily storing all kinds of shipments that arrive or are waiting to be sent by air. Chariots and wheels and strapped packs line the wall, used to load or unload heavy stuff.\n\nThere's a trapdoor on the floor, and a path to the southeast.\n\nYou can see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open trapdoor", "response": "No one noticed you borrowing the keys last night due to the guests' arrival. But it'll be impossible to try it again now. You look up at Ardavaan and shake your head, \"Forget about the keys, they're kept by the staff. Oh, and it's locked.\" He motions for you to step aside, while searching in his pockets.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Ardavaan with the axe", "response": "Trying to harm Ardavaan with the axe won't get you anywhere.\n\nAs you withdraw from the trapdoor Ardavaan takes your place. He inserts a lockpick into the keyhole and manipulates its wires but to no avail. \"It will be easier to simply break the lock,\" he concludes while putting the lockpick back into his pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the lock with the axe", "response": "You raise your axe and land it on the lock. You quickly check your axe to make sure it's not damaged, and then check the lock which is standing as strong as ever. Ardavaan rubs his chin, his eyes on your axe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lock", "response": "You are carrying:\nRasha\na jeweled baton\na javelin\na bow", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the axe to Ardavaan", "response": "a sword\na quiver (being worn)\nsome arrows\na guard uniform (being worn)\n\nFrom this trapdoor you managed to get inside the Nest without being noticed last night.\n\n\"Well I could do with an axe.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the axe to Ardavaan", "response": "(first taking the axe)\nThat seems to belong to Ardavaan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the lock with mace", "response": "For lack of a better weapon you draw your mace and hit at the lock. Ardavaan voices your own thought, \"Don't think of beating that lock until it ceases to hold. Not even in the case of emergency.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the lock with the axe", "response": "Ardavaan has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trapdoor", "response": "The trapdoor is locked. You look at Ardavaan and shake your head.\n\nAs you withdraw from the trapdoor Ardavaan takes your place. He weighs your axe and checks its landing position, then strikes with force. Your axe lands on the lock with an amazing precision. A third strike breaks the lock.\n\nYour amazement is short-lived, however. As he opens the trapdoor he hands you back your axe with three unsightly dents on its blade.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You descend into a network of tunnels. Ardavaan draws a glow orb from his robes and you lead him in the approximate direction of the Royal Nest's vehicle hangar. Behind a locked door you hold the glow orb for Ardavaan so that he can handle his lockpick. From his trembling hands and sweated brow you can tell maintaining constant control on Farahnaaz is wearing him out... A few times she stumbles in her trance, but Ardavaan reaches for her on time.\n\nFor your part, your cat tends to go astray in the labyrinth and is deaf to your commands. Ardavaan catches Rasha before he finally pushes the last door open. You gasp in amazement; you're right behind the large Ashtartan vessel you saw last night and it looks even more gorgeous from up close.\n\nDisgruntled, Rasha knocks the glow orb off Ardavaan's hand. It drops and shatters into tiny splinters.\n\nHangar (Royal Nest)\nThe hangar is a spacious chamber with a high ceiling. Unlike the noisy halls where flying beasts perch, this place is clean of hay and doesn't smell.\n\nAn access door for the passengers and the staff lies to the north. A pair of sliding gates lead to the landing platform to the west and are currently closed. The entrance to the tunnels is to the east.\n\nThere's a large Ashtartan vessel in middle of chamber, with two identical one-man vehicles by its sides.\n\nArdavaan walks around the large vessel while inspecting it. He then goes to a one-man vehicle, but shakes his head, \"It's too dark here without the glow orb.\" He calls on you to help him open the sliding gates so that more light can enter the hangar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick ardavaan", "response": "Ardavaan grabs your wrist and punches you in the face with his other hand. The sound and feeling of the impact is nauseating, but you strike him hard with your free hand which has already drawn a weapon. Ardavaan growls in pain and beckons to Farahnaaz, who lunges towards you. You try to kick her back without harming her seriously, but your legs suddenly get numb and falter. As you fall, Ardavaan pulls Farahnaaz and limps backwards, holding an odd handgun in his other hand. He has a tormented, weary expression as he watches the paralyzation engulfing your body...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open trapdoor", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open gate", "response": "The huge sliding gates will be laborsome to open and might attract the people who work here. Are you sure you're ready to open the gates?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Please answer yes or no.> You decide to open the gates later.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The access door is securely locked and can't be opened from this side. You wonder if there's any way to make it harder to open from the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "Together you push the gates open and allow daylight into the hangar. They are very noisy, it'll be a matter of time before those who heard it will show up.\n\nArdavaan kneels by one of the one-man vehicles. He hastily opens a small shaft on the engine and snaps something inside which produces a few sparks. He then closes the shaft, absently licking two burnt fingertips. You remind him to awaken Farahnaaz before leaving. He doesn't reply.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the javelin at Ardavaan", "response": "You lack the nerve when it comes to the crucial moment.\n\nArdavaan hurries to the second one-man vehicle. You block his way, \"If you don't do it right now, you won't leave.\" \"If you insist. But I don't promise anything.\" \"You don't?\" \"I'd risk irreversible failure. I need rest.\" \"But you can't rest, even if I stand watch...\" \"Don't pretend to be an imbecile, Nivanen. We'll fly away from here and I'll awaken her once I'm rested.\" \"Ah, and you'll send us back on foot. You forgot where we are.\" He shrugs, \"Or you'll come with me to somewhere I can arrange you a flight back. Now...\"\n\nHe motions for you to stand aside, and you obey - much to your surprise. He repeats the same procedure on the second small vehicle. You wince when his hand burns again.\n\nYou hear muffled voices from behind the access door, and the sound of a key turning in the keyhole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nArdavaan raises the hood of the large vessel and releases Rasha who jumps inside. Then he lifts Farahnaaz and places her in the back seat. Farahnaaz's eyes close and her head drops to her chest.\n\nThe door is pushed open. Four watchmen rush in and call you to freeze. You wish you could have somehow delayed their coming... but too late. Ardavaan tells you to remain steady, and demands that you give him a weapon to distract them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\n\"You don't have any weapon yourself?\" \"I... Quickly, Nivanen, I need one of your weapons!\" \"No... I prefer we capture you alive than dead.\"\n\nThe watchmen are momentarily surprised to find an ambassador and a town guard inside. They ask what you're doing here. Your gaze meets Ardavaan's and you take one step back in alarm, but too late. Frenzied for not having been given a weapon, he seizes your shoulder and forcefully hurls you to the nearest watchman. You go head first into his chest and you both fall. You see the legs of the second man go limp, and he drops to the ground near you, motionless. The third one gets savagely kicked in the ribs, but the last one leaps for Ardavaan and strives to prevent him from escaping into the vessel. The first watchman shoves you aside, gets up, and charges his crossbow. At the first opportunity he releases a metal bolt aimed at his target's neck.\n\nYou come over to Ardavaan but he's already dead; the pool of his blood on the floor constantly expanding. Hung from the chain around his neck you can now see the unmistakable Ember medallion sticking out of his collar, depicting a red goknous bird rising from gray ashes. His hand holds a pistol of some sort. A watchman gently pushes you aside and covers his dead body. You yell at him for not having captured him instead. He replies that he was too dangerous and uncontrollable. The sadness in his voice turns your attention to the body of his colleague who's been paralyzed to death... by Ardavaan's gun. You go to the vessel and see Farahnaaz is still asleep. However, upon closer inspection you realize she isn't breathing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the axe to Ardavaan", "response": "No way you're going to give your axe to Ardavaan again. You hand him your javelin instead. \"Well I could do with a javelin.\"\n\nYou obey the watchmen and hold your hands up. Ardavaan casts you a side glance and slowly does the same, however, you're now wiser than to take it for surrender. A prickling flows up your arms and you realize you're unable to move them. You're then engulfed with a sensation not unlike falling from a great height, and in your panic you no longer hear the questions they are asking.\n\nArdavaan draws a deep breath. Then with a sudden jolt your arms and his are thrown forth. The men are all transfixed with an unseen power. With a powerful, commanding voice Ardavaan tells them to get out and immediately runs toward them. Dazed, they rush for the door without question. He then closes and bars the door by putting your javelin behind the slender columns which decorate the entrance; what, you regret, didn't cross your own mind before. As soon as he bars the door, you hear the men yelling and hitting the door in an attempt to break it open. Ardavaan runs back to the vessel and turns on the engine while you enter the seat next to the pilot. He then steers the vessel out of the hangar.\n\nAbove the clouds (in vessel)\nIn vessel you can see Ardavaan, Farahnaaz and Rasha.\n\nYou sink into your seat, occasionally moving your arms and hands to make sure they're in your command. Ardavaan gives you a playful smile, \"I briefly channeled your force without your permission.\" \"Yes, you leeched something out of me. Are you happy with it?\" \"I'm just glad you didn't resist. But if I'm not mistaken, in Arg Varkana people don't know how to do it.\" \"Do what?\" His smile fades, \"You don't block your minds to intrusions.\" \"Well, we guardians learn some stuff about it and get some training, but since we have no use for it most tend to forget.\" \"You've been fortunate, but it won't last long.\" \"If there are more of your kind in Ashtarta... I hope our Argbaan knows about it.\" He nods. \"Lady Atossa knows. And she did so even before I warned her.\"\n\nYour eyes widen in surprise. But he firmly changes the topic, \"Now, let's see where we can stop to rest. There should be a map behind my seat. Please take it, I need you to find us a destination.\"\n\nWhatever his motives, Ardavaan managed to steal the poem book and has now escaped with his life. You trust his word on restoring Farahnaaz and sending you back home, and both of you keep to this temporary truce, but somewhere in the back of your mind you wish you could have discovered more about him and his mission. Perhaps you could have tried harder to gain his trust... You shrug; he may have escaped from Varkana, but he's still in your grasp - from your new point of view. Future adventures seem unavoidable. You try to brace yourself for whatever lies ahead.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Hangar (Royal Nest)\nThe hangar is a spacious chamber with a high ceiling. Unlike the noisy halls where flying beasts perch, this place is clean of hay and doesn't smell.\n\nAn access door for the passengers and the staff lies to the north. A pair of sliding gates lead to the landing platform to the west. The entrance to the tunnels is to the east.\n\nThere's a large Ashtartan vessel in middle of chamber, with two identical one-man vehicles by its sides.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.\n\nArdavaan hurries to the second one-man vehicle. You block his way, \"If you don't do it right now, you won't leave.\" \"If you insist. But I don't promise anything.\" \"You don't?\" \"I'd risk irreversible failure. I need rest.\" \"But you can't rest, even if I stand watch...\" \"Don't pretend to be an imbecile, Nivanen. We'll fly away from here and I'll awaken her once I'm rested.\" \"Ah, and you'll send us back on foot. You forgot where we are.\" He shrugs, \"Or you'll come with me to somewhere I can arrange you a flight back. Now...\"\n\nHe motions for you to stand aside, and you obey - much to your surprise. He repeats the same procedure on the second small vehicle. You wince when his hand burns again.\n\nYou hear muffled voices from behind the access door, and the sound of a key turning in the keyhole.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Hangar (Royal Nest)\nThe hangar is a spacious chamber with a high ceiling. Unlike the noisy halls where flying beasts perch, this place is clean of hay and doesn't smell.\n\nAn access door for the passengers and the staff lies to the north. A pair of sliding gates lead to the landing platform to the west and are currently closed. The entrance to the tunnels is to the east.\n\nThere's a large Ashtartan vessel in middle of chamber, with two identical one-man vehicles by its sides.\n\nYou can also see Ardavaan and Farahnaaz here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "This door is the only other ground access to this chamber beside the tunnels. It stands between a pair of slender columns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bar door", "response": "What do you want to bar the access door with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Javelin", "response": "You bar the door by jamming your javelin behind the columns and in front of the door. Its length is only just adequate, and you hope it'll hold long enough.\n\n\"I really appreciate that,\" Ardavaan says, a bit surprised. \"... Despite how the things may appear to you, I'm not here to cause trouble. It's a very important matter... perhaps I could discuss it later.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open gate", "response": "The huge sliding gates will be laborsome to open and might attract the people who work here. Are you sure you're ready to open the gates?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nArdavaan hurries to the second one-man vehicle. You block his way, \"If you don't do it right now, you won't leave.\" \"If you insist. But I don't promise anything.\" \"You don't?\" \"I'd risk irreversible failure. I need rest.\" \"But you can't rest, even if I stand watch...\" \"Don't pretend to be an imbecile, Nivanen. We'll fly away from here and I'll awaken her once I'm rested.\" \"Ah, and you'll send us back on foot. You forgot where we are.\" He shrugs, \"Or you'll come with me to somewhere I can arrange you a flight back. Now...\"\n\nHe motions for you to stand aside, and you obey - much to your surprise. He repeats the same procedure on the second small vehicle. You wince when his hand burns again.\n\nYou hear muffled voices from behind the access door, and the sound of a key turning in the keyhole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nArdavaan raises the hood of the large vessel and releases Rasha who jumps inside. Then he lifts Farahnaaz and places her in the back seat. Farahnaaz's eyes close and her head drops to her chest.\n\nThe men try to push the door open but find it's jammed. They start hitting it ferociously. Ardavaan calls you to quickly enter the vessel as he gets into the pilot's seat and turns on the engine.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Screen", "Satire" ]

[ "cheese", "cover art", "film references", "humor", "IF community references", "IF Competition 2000", "IFComp Game", "linear", "Multiple clubfloyd transcripts", "multiple protagonists", "office", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2000", "XYZZY Best Game", "XYZZY Best NPCs" ]

[ 8, 18, 18, 7, 2 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "At last, your troubled fortunes seemed to come to an end. It all happened very quickly: the callback from Red Hat, the bizarre interview with Human Resources, the handshake, the filling out of W-2 forms, and then your first day of work.\n\nThis bleak room with its short, slumping ceiling does nothing to brighten your morale. Short file cabinets, marked in reverse alphabetical order, crawl in a line along the walls like an army of stupid robots. One measly window lets in a tiny square of sunlight.\n\nYou see a copier machine here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You're Peter Feeney, a bright young guy with a healthy self-image. You do feel that life hasn't brought you the success and fame that you deserve, but that will come with time, in your humble opinion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "(the window)\nThe window faces out to the north, getting a good view of the Red Hat corporate campus and the beautiful Research Triangle Park scenery. The window is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "[Hit any key.]\nFor old time's sake.\n\n[Hit any key.]\nFile Room\nThis bleak room with its short, slumping ceiling does nothing to brighten your morale. Short file cabinets, marked in reverse alphabetical order, crawl in a line along the walls like an army of stupid robots. One measly window lets in a tiny square of sunlight.\n\nYou see a copier machine here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the copier", "response": "The copier has a lid which covers a big pane of glass, and a panel with buttons. The big green button makes copies. That's all you've ever needed to push on it. In fact, your annoying supervisor, Melvin Prufrock, impressed upon you, at stammering length, how temperamental the machine is, and how expensive copier repair guys are. Bah.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cabinets", "response": "The file cabinets are marked in reverse alphabetical order: cabinet Z, cabinet Z-Y, cabinet X-Y, etc.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine z.", "response": "File cabinet Z takes documents from Zz-Ze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Z-y", "response": "File cabinet Z-Y takes documents from Za-Yi.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the z.", "response": "Inside you see filed documents.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This bleak room with its short, slumping ceiling does nothing to brighten your morale. Short file cabinets, marked in reverse alphabetical order, crawl in a line along the walls like an army of stupid robots. One measly window lets in a tiny square of sunlight.\n\nYou see a copier machine here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the copier", "response": "You open the lid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You have to stay on the job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the window", "response": "(the window)\nYou open the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look out the window", "response": "(the window)\nYou find nothing of interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit window", "response": "(the window)\nYou have to stay on the job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "File file", "response": "Which do you mean, the file cabinets, the Z cabinet, the Z-Y cabinet, the Y-X cabinet or the other cabinets?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Y-X", "response": "File cabinet Y-X takes documents from Ye-Xa.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open y-X", "response": "You open the Y-X cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "Inside you see filed documents.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Z-y", "response": "The Z-Y cabinet drawer seems to be stuck. Not locked, just kind of not moving very easily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the Z-the y.", "response": "Melvin, your supervisor, gangles into the room. With his elongated height and pasty, translucent skin, he looks like the big funky alien at the end of \"Close Encounters,\" only more puppet-like. He approaches you cautiously. Even though he's your boss, he always seems to be intimidated by you.\n\n\"H-hi, Peter,\" he says.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Oh, hi Melvin.\n2: Go away, idiot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Oh, hi Melvin.\"\n\nMelvin swallows, his dry throat making a thwupping noise that really turns your stomach. \"Mmm. Making some copies there?\" he asks.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: No, I'm hacking into NORAD and launching Global Thermonuclear War. 2: Yeah, pictures of Valerie's butt. Wanna see?\n3: (sigh) Yes, Melvin. I'm making copies. What's up?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You say, \"(sigh) Yes, Melvin. I'm making copies. What's up?\"\n\nMelvin fiddles with a small stack of folders in his sweaty hands. \"I was wondering, um. Are you busy?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Yes. I'm terribly busy. You'll have to come back later.\n2: What is it you want, Melvin?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You say, \"What is it you want, Melvin?\"\n\n\"I was wondering if you could sort these for me,\" he says, handing you the folders. There are sweat stains on them. Stifling the urge to make a comment, you adjust your grip to touch only the dry spots.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stains", "response": "They're just sweat stains. Kind of large sweat stains. In fact, they're not just everyday sweat stains. They smell kind of funny, too.\n\nMelvin fidgets, waiting for you to finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the folders", "response": "The folders are a stack of about thirty plain folders, currently unsorted.\n\nMelvin fidgets, waiting for you to finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the folders", "response": "You flip through the folders, but none of it interests you.\n\nMelvin fidgets, waiting for you to finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell stains", "response": "They smell funkily sweet, almost like antifreeze. Melvin must have been working on his car this morning or something.\n\nMelvin fidgets, waiting for you to finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Goodbye", "response": "Please use >TALK TO PLAYER to interact in this game.\n\nMelvin fidgets, waiting for you to finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Melvin", "response": "You can't think of anything in particular to say.\n\nMelvin fidgets, waiting for you to finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sort folders", "response": "You're actually pretty much of a whiz at sorting, which might be why you got the job you did. \"Time me,\" you tell Melvin, and 13 seconds later you're done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Melvin", "response": "Melvin Prufrock is a thin, translucent looking individual, with tics and other twitchy mannerisms passing for a personality. He is insanely tall, approaching six foot eight, but probably only weighs 130 pounds with clothes on. You don't even want to consider what he's like without clothes on. He also looks like he's about six years younger than you are, so about nineteen, and yet he's several rankings above you on the ladder.\n\nMelvin fidgets, waiting for you to finish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the folders to Melvin", "response": "You start to hand them to Melvin, but he starts making a choking noise. You realize he's trying to tell you that you've sorted them into the wrong order again. For whatever reason, they like to use reverse alphabetical order in this company. Go figure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sort the folders", "response": "You re-sort the folders, taking only 11 seconds this time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the folders to Melvin", "response": "Melvin says, \"Excellent. You're really amazing at this. Oh, and could you file them now? I guess that's really what I was after.\" Without even giving you a chance to say no, Melvin hustles away. You swear you almost hear his bones clacking together when he moves that fast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "File folders", "response": "Well, let's see. The Z's are on top. The first one is labeled, \"Zefferelli,\" so it should probably go into the Z cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the z cabinet", "response": "You open the Z cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Zefferelli in it", "response": "You stick the Zefferelli folder into cabinet Z and close the drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "File folders", "response": "(the sorted folders)\nWell, let's see. The Z's are on top. The first one is labeled, \"Zarf: Classified,\" so it should probably go into the Z-Y cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read Zarf", "response": "(the sorted folders)\nEagerly, you flip open the \"Zarf: Classified\" folder, only to find that it contains a top secret patent application for the design of a new improved type of cup holder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the Z-the y.", "response": "Man, this cabinet is really stuck shut. Better try again. This time, with feeling.\n\nYou feel a faint cool breath of air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the Z-the y.", "response": "You give the stuck cabinet drawer the old heave-ho, and instead of merely opening, it yanks loose from the wall, revealing a strange, small door in the wall!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "The strange secret door is only about three feet high, and painted a shade of crimson. Gold flecks in the paint give it a sparkly, almost magical appearance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel the air", "response": "It seems to be coming from the secret door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the air", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Zarf inthe z -y.", "response": "(the sorted folders in the Z-Y cabinet)\nYou stick the Zarf folders into cabinet X-Y and close the drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "A hush of ancient air, tinged with organic sweetness, flows out of the opened portal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell air", "response": "The air smells like old books, soft leather, caramel, and just a hint of cinnamon muffins.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "File folders", "response": "Well, let's see. The Y's are on top. The first one is labeled, \"Y2,\" so it should probably go into the Y-X cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open y-X", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put y2 in the Y-the x.", "response": "You stick the Y2 folder into cabinet X-Y and close the drawer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "File folders", "response": "[BUG - wrong folder in player ]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nsome folders", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the folders", "response": "The folders are a stack of about thirty plain folders, currently sorted intoreversealphabetical order.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter door", "response": "You pass through the portal into a dark tunnel, which sighs with melodic longing as you enter.\n\nYou are on your hands and knees in a claustrophobic tunnel. It leads down, as nearly as you can tell, but your equilibrium is distorted in here. The curving walls gleam with the semblance of wet rock, but the palms of your hands tell a different story. It feels like organic tissue, a thick layer of hide, with the elastic strength of muscle. Like sharkskin, it is silken and slick in one direction but resists any backwards movement with a roughened grain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You begin to crawl forward, the tunnel floor oozing and pliable under your knees and palms. The secret door bangs shut and disappears. The tunnel begins to shiver, and from up ahead a roar like a waterfall issues from the darkness. Your hands suddenly lose traction as gravity begins its quickening pull. You begin to slide down... down... down...\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nB E I N G A N D R E W P L O T K I N\n\nType ABOUT for information about this release.\n\nAt Zarf's Desk (in Zarf's head)\nWeird! You're inside Zarf's head!You see the opening of Zarf's eyes, giving you a sort of bifocal window into the surrounding environment. Outside of Zarf, you see a workdesk containing a gigantic computer monitor, a keyboard, tidy arrangements of notes, and a collection of little toys and knick-knacks.\n\nInside of Zarf's head, you see weird flashes of light. A number of eerie sounds float around. You presume these effects are caused by the random firing of synapses in a very active mind. There are no exits that you can perceive.\n\nZarf types some code into his computer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine monitor", "response": "The gigantic computer monitor is displaying a lot of complicated programming code.\n\nZarf types more code into his computer, then saves the file.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the code", "response": "You are suddenly humbled by the awareness that you don't know the first thing about professional programming, because you can't tell what this code does, even though it looks quite organized, efficient, and well-commented.\n\nZarf compiles his code.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toys", "response": "There are little colored shapes and game pieces, a couple of metal cubes sitting next to each other. There is a larger, third cube, an elaborate assemblage of puzzle pieces, plated with gold.\n\nZarf traces down a typo, saves again, and recompiles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the notes", "response": "Beyond the fact that they're tidy, you can't really read what's written on them from here.\n\nZarf takes a drink out of a glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're Peter Feeney, a bright young guy with a healthy self-image. You do feel that life hasn't brought you the success and fame that you deserve, but that will come with time, in your humble opinion.\n\nZarf says, \"It's in *California*?\" His voice echoes, deep and resonantly, through his head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the light", "response": "Inside of Zarf's head, you see weird flashes of light. A number of eerie sounds float around. You presume these effects are caused by the random firing of synapses in a very active mind. There are no exits that you can perceive.\n\nZarf types some more code into his computer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch light", "response": "Nothing seems to have any real substance here, although it's hard to tell if it's your imagination or Zarf's.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the voice", "response": "-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\n\nSuddenly, you are falling from a somewhat drastic height at the usual 9.8 meters per second squared. Your acceleration and velocity are halted when a large hedge on the Red Hat campus grounds rushes up to catch you.\n\nSpiny, poky leaves weed their way through your clothing and stab you in uncomfortable and sensitive places.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Spiny, poky leaves weed their way through your clothing and stab you in uncomfortable and sensitive places.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "Peter climbs out of the hedge. Meanwhile, back upstairs...\n\nKitchenette (as Valerie)\nThe kitchenette is a bland little room with rose print wallpaper and the constant smell of coffee and orange rinds. You do your best to keep the place tidy, but of course that's impossible with the 300 pound gorillas, also known as \"co-workers,\" who sling their hairy bulk through here every day, leaving an unsightly mess. Since it's still morning, you can stand to look at the place without getting out the sponge and cleaning up. A coffee maker burbles in the corner.\n\nMelvin rotates into your field of view one awkward angle at a time. He bangs his akimbo elbows on the sides of the doorframe, making a horrible clanking noise on the metal. It doesn't seem to faze him.\n\n\"Hey there, beautiful,\" he says in a syrupy voice.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Hi, Melvin.\n2: (sigh) Hi, Melvin.\n3: (groan) Goodbye, Melvin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You say, \"(sigh) Hi, Melvin.\"\n\n\"Hey, don't sound so negative,\" Melvin says. \"I was just saying hello.\" He leans casually against the fridge, and it tilts, causing a clunk and", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bang akimbo elbows", "response": "a splash noise inside. \"Whoops,\" he says. \"Don't worry about it. So, busy for lunch?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: (groan) Goodbye, Melvin.\n2: Yeah, I've got big lunch plans. Sorry.\n3: If you don't clean up that fridge right now, it's going to cause a big problem for someone later. Namely, me.\n\n>>\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: (groan) Goodbye, Melvin.\n2: Yeah, I've got big lunch plans. Sorry.\n3: If you don't clean up that fridge right now, it's going to cause a big problem for someone later. Namely, me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You say, \"If you don't clean up that fridge right now, it's going to cause a big problem for someone later. Namely, me.\"\n\nMelvin says, \"Come on, I know you love to clean things up. I just did you a favor. I just gave you an excuse for the next time you decide to take an extra break from your desk.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: (groan) Goodbye, Melvin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"(groan) Goodbye, Melvin.\"\n\n\"So I'll seeya later?\" Melvin calls out as you leave. Brrr. Serves you right for trying to sneak an extra break from work. You steal back to your desk, hoping no one besides Melvin saw you so obviously slacking.\n\nValerie's Desk (as Valerie)\nYour desk looked spiffy when you left it last night. By the time you got here this morning, the minions of evil had sneaked in and dropped off a messy pile of work. You've ignored it so far, but it's not really going to go away on its own. On your computer, though, is email that needs to be read.\n\nYou can see a messy pile of work here.\n\nBy the way, your phone is ringing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You answer the phone", "response": "You answer the phone. It's your coworker Debra, wondering if you got any of her emails, but telling you never mind, because she figured it out by herself. Then she hangs up. Sweet Lord, when will you deliver us from idiot coworkers?\n\nJust as you hang up, you hear your name being yelled and see someone running up toward you.\n\nThat cute young temp who started here a few weeks ago, whatsisname -- Peter? -- is red-faced and perspiring slightly. One of his shirtsleeves is twisted (you resist the urge to straighten it), and his collar is turned up. There are also a number of twigs and hedge leaves clinging to him.\n\n\"I'm glad you're here!\" Peter says brightly. \"I really need to talk to somebody about what just happened to me!\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: A 'hello' would be nice.\n2: What did you do, get up on the wrong side of the flower bed this morning?\n3: Funny, I don't even remember buying a ticket for the 'Hear the secrets of a crazed Temp' lottery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You answer the phone", "response": "What would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: A 'hello' would be nice.\n2: What did you do, get up on the wrong side of the flower bed this morning?\n3: Funny, I don't even remember buying a ticket for the 'Hear the secrets of a crazed Temp' lottery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You say, \"What did you do, get up on the wrong side of the flower bed this morning?\"\n\n\"Whuh?\" Peter asks. Well, it isn't so much of a question as it is a grunt. You help pick off a couple of the more prominent leaves. \"Well, the leaves, right,\" he says. \"That's not what I came to talk about, but it's part of it. Indirectly, I mean. I fell in a hedge.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Why don't you go ahead and get to the point?\n2: You indirectly fell in a hedge?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You say, \"You indirectly fell in a hedge?\"\n\n\"Well, I didn't plan on it when I went into the little secret door and ended up inside someone else's brain. Only when the second flash of light came did I fall into the hedge,\" Peter says. \"But, here's the interesting part.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: If that's the dull part, I'm guessing you left out the part about evil alien robots from dimension X who plan to take over the world from their headquarters at Red Hat.\n2: Yeah, yeah, whatever. How about dinner tonight?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"If that's the dull part, I'm guessing you left out the part about evil alien robots from dimension X who plan to take over the world from their headquarters at Red Hat.\"\n\nPeter says, \"No, the cool part, see, is that it was *Zarf's* head that I was inside!\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Yeah, yeah, whatever. How about dinner tonight?\n2: Who the hell is Zarf?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You say, \"Who the hell is Zarf?\"\n\n\"You never heard of Zarf?\" Peter asks. Then he pauses, thinks a moment, and says, \"Hmm, I guess you wouldn't have. Never mind. Here's an idea. How about we go to dinner tonight, and we can talk more then?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Okay. dinner it is.\n2: Can't do it tonight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Okay. dinner it is.\"\n\nPeter says, \"Excellent! But, first things first. Can you meet me after work up in the file room? I really want to show you something.\"\n\nValerie says, \"It's against my better judgment, but all right.\"\n\nLittle do they suspect that Melvin, nearby, is spying on them and making plans of his own.Even littler do they suspect that Melvin is not what he seems...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nAround the Corner (as \"Melvin\")\nSCANNING cubicle_space(3,1,15):\nTERRAN_LIFEFORM targets(2):\n\nRECOGNIZE: ID(696095)[\"Peter Danielson Feeney\"]\ndETAIL_LIST New unit underling\nProblem report: DANGEROUS (watchflag)\nProblem report: ATTITUDE\nResistant to authority. CONVERSE_MODE(shy,servile);\n\nRECOGNIZE: ID(344904)[\"Valerie Ann Michelle Conrad\"]\ndETAIL_LIST Established unit (no connection)\nProblem report: ATTITUDE\nResponds to authority.\nCONVERSE_MODE(extrovert,lecherous);\n\nSOUNDSCAN targets(344904,696095): Process... Process...\n696095: [Author's Note: Go FileRoom ] << Show 344904 OBJ_ID(0001001)[##Portal]\n>>\n344904: [Author's Note: accept order Go ]\n\nANALYSIS: TERMINATE Action [Author's Note: Show ]\n#ifSucc [Author's Note: EXECUTE ORDER_ID(904)[##CoverUp] ]\n#else [Author's Note: TERMINATE ID(696095) ]\n\nNEXTACT:\n[1]FOLLOW\n[2]WAIT\n[3]KILL\n\n>>", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "*ERROR.\n[Author's Note: EXECUTE ORDER_ID(904)[##CoverUp] ] (inconclusive)\n\n[1]FOLLOW\n[2]WAIT\n[3]ERROR", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "FOLLOW MODE ACTIVE. --NOMINAL--\n\nLater that evening...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nFile Room (as Valerie)\nThe file room is one of your favorite rooms in the company building. One, it's always orderly and clean; and two, it doesn't sport brightly colored IKEA furniture. It's businesslike and efficient. There's even a window to give the area a sense of openness.\n\nPeter is standing here, pacing, when you arrive. \"What took you? Didn't we say 6:30?\" Peter asks.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Sorry I'm late.\n2: Okay, so show me this amazing file cabinet of yours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Sorry I'm late.\"\n\n\"Sorry I'm late,\" you say to Peter. \"I had to ditch Melvin. He kept hanging around the elevators. I finally faked him out and took the stairs. It's like he was trying to intercept me.\"\n\n\"Melvin? Really?\" Peter says, looking worried. \"I was wondering who put the file cabinet back.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Okay, so show me this amazing file cabinet of yours.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Okay, so show me this amazing file cabinet of yours.\"\n\n\"Okay, so show me this amazing file cabinet of yours,\" you tell Peter. \"I'm starving.\"\n\nPeter says, \"Here's what you do. Go to file cabinet Z-Y and try to open it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Z-y", "response": "You try to open the cabinet, but it seems to be stuck shut.\n\n\"It's stuck,\" you say.\n\n\"Give it a good pull,\" says Peter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "You try to open the cabinet, but it seems to be stuck shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the Z-the y.", "response": "You yank on the drawer, and it flies clean out of the cabinet, sending you spilling backwards. Loose folders slide out in a snaky line sideways across the floor, emptying their contents in all directions.\n\n\"Egad!\" yells Peter. \"That didn't happen last time!\"\n\n\"Well, it did this time,\" you tell Peter. \"Help me clean up the papers.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "You should probably clean up the scattered papers first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean", "response": "What do you want to clean?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean papers", "response": "As you both lean down to clean up the papers, you see a pair of shoes enter the room from the darkened hallway. Perched in the shoes is a pair of stilts. Balanced on the stilts is a kind of potato head with Melvin's face on it. In other words, Melvin is standing here.\n\n\"Do you two want to tell me what you're doing here?\" Melvin asks.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: No.\n2: Practicing the Lambada.\n3: Smooching.\n4: It's none of your business, Melvin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You say, \"Practicing the Lambada.\"\n\nMelvin says, \"Mmm. The Forbidden Dance. Appropriate, considering this is the second time today, Peter, that you've been playing around with private company property, against the rules.\"\n\nPeter says, \"Geez, Melvin. What's gotten into you? Suddenly you've grown a pair.\"\n\nMelvin ignores Peter and kicks some of the papers with his toe. \"Why don't you two put things back where you found them, and I won't have to report this?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Okay. Sorry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the Z-the y.", "response": "The cabinet is already out of the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You say, \"Smooching.\"\n\nMelvin looks at you with a leer and says, \"Tut-tut-tut Valerie. You're quite the little flirt today, aren't you? Did she tell you, Peter, how she came on to me today in the snack room?\"\n\nPeter looks at you. \"Eww!\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Buzz off, creep.\n2: Say that again and I'll bust your fricking head open.\n3: I demand an apology. Now.\n4: Okay, Melvin. You just won yourself a sexual harrassment suit. I'll see you in court.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "You say, \"Okay, Melvin. You just won yourself a sexual harrassment suit. I'll see you in court.\"\n\nMelvin isn't fazed. He kicks some of the papers with his toe. \"I could report this as company espionage. That's what it looks like to me.\"\n\nPeter says, \"Hey, be cool, Melvin. It was just an accident. I spilled a cabinet and Valerie offered to help me clean up.\"\n\nMelvin looks at you. \"Just an innocent spill. This is the second time today that cabinet has 'innocently' spilled open.\"\n\n\"So I'm clumsy,\" says Peter, shrugging.\n\nMelvin says, \"Why don't you two put things back where you found them, and I won't have to report this?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Okay. Sorry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Okay. Sorry.\"\n\n\"Okay, Melvin,\" says Peter.\n\n\"Sorry,\" you say through gritted teeth.\n\nMelvin folds his clanky arms and waits impatiently for you to finish cleaning up the scattered papers, his red little eyes sweeping back and forth between you and Peter like a Cylon's.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clean papers", "response": "Melvin watches as you pick up the scattered folders and papers and shove them into the open cabinet. Peter puts the YZ cabinet back against the wall.\n\n\"There, Melvin,\" Peter says.\n\nMelvin says, \"Okay, now get out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Melvin", "response": "Melvin seemed harmless enough at first, but lately he's been giving you the definite creeps. For one thing, he doesn't work anywhere near your station, yet you seem to meet him two or three times a day. You're starting to get the feeling that he's obsessing about you, and you're starting to lose your ability to be nice to him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "Melvin watches as you exit the building. You leave him behind at the entrance and walk a safe distance away.\n\n\"Well, that was weird. I've never seen Melvin act like that,\" Peter says.\n\n\"Really?\" you ask. \"He's always seemed a sort of a creep to me.\"\n\n\"Is there any way we can sneak back in, do you think?\"\n\n\"Really?\" asks Peter.\n\n\"Yeah. Now I'm curious. If Melvin hadn't showed up like that, I wouldn't have believed you really found something. Now I want to see what it is.\" \"Won't Melvin be watching?\"\n\n\"He can't sit there all night,\" you say. \"He has to go home at some point, right?\" \"Should we go to dinner first?\"\n\n\"Nah. Let's just go for it. Come on. Melvin doesn't really have any authority over me, anyway.\"\n\nPeter says, \"Excellent.\"\n\nAnd so ...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nFile Room\nThe file room is one of your favorite rooms in the company building. One, it's always orderly and clean; and two, it doesn't sport brightly colored IKEA furniture. It's businesslike and efficient. There's even a window to give the area a sense of openness. Early moonlight peeks in, drawing a long amber trapezoid on the carpet.\n\nPeter is here.\n\nPeter says, \"Okay, I don't see him. Let's be careful this time.\" He moves the Z-Y cabinet quietly aside to reveal a strange little door in the wall.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Whoa.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Whoa.\"\n\nPeter says, \"Go on in. It's safe. If all goes well, I'll meet you by the hedge in a few minutes.\"\n\n\"Which hedge?\" you ask. \"How will I find you?\"\n\n\"Trust me on this one,\" says Peter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "A hush of ancient air, tinged with organic sweetness, flows out of the opened portal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "The strange secret door is only about three feet high, and painted a shade of crimson. Gold flecks in the paint give it a sparkly, almost magical appearance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter door", "response": "You pass through the portal into a dark tunnel, which sighs with melodic longing as you enter.\n\nYou are on your hands and knees in a claustrophobic tunnel. It leads down, as nearly as you can tell, but your equilibrium is distorted in here. The curving walls gleam with the semblance of wet rock, but the palms of your hands tell a different story. It feels like organic tissue, a thick layer of hide, with the elastic strength of muscle. Like sharkskin, it is silken and slick in one direction but resists any backwards movement with a roughened grain.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You begin to crawl forward, the tunnel floor oozing and pliable under your knees and palms. The secret door bangs shut and disappears. The tunnel begins to shiver, and from up ahead a roar like a waterfall issues from the darkness. Your hands suddenly lose traction as gravity begins its quickening pull. You begin to slide down... down... down...\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nIn Zarf's Kitchen (in Zarf's head)\nWeird! You really are inside someone's head!You see the opening of this guy Zarf's eyes, giving you a sort of bifocal window into the surrounding environment. Out through his eyes you can see that he's in the middle of making dinner. On the stove, a pan of onions has been saut?ed golden brown in olive oil. On the countertop you see a bottle of white wine, two measuring cups, a small bowl, and a plate of ribbed pasta.\n\nInside of Zarf's head, you see weird flashes of light. A number of eerie sounds float around. You presume these effects are caused by the random firing of synapses in a very active mind.\n\nEach time there is a flash, you notice a shadow nearby that never seems to brighten.\n\nZarf stirs a cup of white wine into the pan of onions and lets it simmer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shadow", "response": "The shadow falls in a diagonal slant, and a sensation comes from it, but you are unable to tell whether it is warmth or cold.\n\nZarf measures out roughly a cup of really squishy blue cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wine", "response": "The bottle of white wine is missing a cup, which was added to the pan of onions.\n\nZarf stirs the simmering onions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Zarf", "response": "You are unable to exert any control over Zarf's movements.\n\nZarf stirs the simmering onions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "You smell nothing unexpected.\n\nZarf adds the cheese to the simmering onions and mixes it around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cheese", "response": "You imagine that the blue cheese is rather potent.\n\nZarf pours the saut?ed onion mixture over the pasta.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat zarf", "response": "(first taking Zarf)\nYou are unable to exert any control over Zarf's movements.\n\nZarf sprinkles crushed walnuts onto the pasta dish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the synapses", "response": "Inside of Zarf's head, you see weird flashes of light. A number of eerie sounds float around. You presume these effects are caused by the random firing of synapses in a very active mind.\n\nEach time there is a flash, you notice a shadow nearby that never seems to brighten.\n\nZarf picks up the pasta dish and carries it into another room.\n\nThe shadow suddenly darkens and enlarges, swallowing you. You are transported deeper within Zarf's brain.\n\nThe noise is really loud here, and there is more to see. A visual juxtaposition mars your sense of place. The walls are angular but smooth, are a warm red, living rock, are cold dead clay and calcite. Cave tunnels lead in all directions, but without a compass or a way to mark your trail, you sense that you could easily get lost.\n\nYou can see a control panel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the control panel", "response": "The control panel has the appearance of a music stand, rising from a single stalk to about the height of your rib cage. The flat surface has but one button and a rectangular plate about four inches by six inches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plate", "response": "The rectangular plate is made of some sort of smooth, colorless ceramic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the button", "response": "The button is a touch-sensitive disk with a one-inch radius. It has one simple marking: a vertical line, drawn in white.\n\nOut of the corner of your eye, you notice a curious gentleman casually leaning against one of the walls here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine gentleman", "response": "The thief is a slippery character with beady eyes that flit back and forth. He carries, along with an unmistakable arrogance, a large bag over his shoulder and a vicious stiletto, whose blade is aimed menacingly in your direction. I'd watch out if I were you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gentleman", "response": "He does not speak, but it is clear from his aspect that the bag will be taken only over his dead body.\n\nThe thief makes a sudden, swift movement in your direction. You catch a glimpse of his stiletto moving, and then --\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\n\nSuddenly, you are falling, but all you see are slashes of yellow light and dark green shapes. One of the largest shapes, with a dimple in the center, moves towards you quickly. As it nears, you feel a sense of time slowing, and your eyes catch the details. It is a large hedge, and the dimple is a crushed spot roughly the size of Peter's body. You hope he flattened most of the sharpest branches when he landed...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nNorthwest Campus (as Peter)\nYou are at the northwest edge of the corporate campus. A decorated line of hedges hidden by a corner of stately trees, with leaves that gently whisper in the evening wind.\n\nYou can see a large hedge here.\n\nValerie plummets into the big hedge with an unladylike ka-thump-krickle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Valerie", "response": "Valerie is a knockout brunette with almond shaped eyes, a flashing smile, a cutting sense of humor, and a real sense of style. She always seems to be trying to prove something to the world, like she can dish it out as well as she can take it. Also, she has a cute butt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Probably better not.\"\n\nYou tell Valerie, \"Probably better not. I don't want to attract any attention.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You move the cabinet", "response": "Which do you mean, the other cabinets, the Y-X cabinet, the Z cabinet or the Z-Y cabinet?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Z-y", "response": "You are unable to.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the Z-y", "response": "You open the Z-Y cabinet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the Z-the y.", "response": "The cabinet is already out of the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "File Room (as Peter)\nThis bleak room with its short, slumping ceiling looks disconcertingly eerie at night. The army of stupid file cabinet robots looks ready to spring to life at any moment. The one measly window lets in a tiny rectangle of moonlight.\n\nA secret door has been revealed in the wall behind the Z-Y cabinet.\n\nYou can also see Valerie here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kiss valerie", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "A hush of ancient air, tinged with organic sweetness, flows out of the opened portal.\n\nValerie asks, \"Why don't we both go?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Will that work?\n2: Sure. Why not?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Will that work?\"\n\nValerie says, \"Sure. Why not?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "Valerie stops you. \"Wait, we forgot the photo.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "I only understood you as far as wanting to get the Zarf:Declassified folder.\n\nYou are carrying:\nsome folders", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Zarf", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "In the Zarf:Declassified folder are an employee record and a blurry photograph.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the record", "response": "It's an employee record for one Andrew Plotkin. He's been working here since the company he used to work for was bought out by Red Hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine photo", "response": "The photograph is a blurred likeness, but you can only assume that it's a picture of Zarf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter door", "response": "You pass through the portal into a dark tunnel, which sighs with melodic longing as you enter.\n\nWeird Tunnel (as Peter)\nYou are on your hands and knees in a claustrophobic tunnel. It leads down, as nearly as you can tell, but your equilibrium is distorted in here. The curving walls gleam with the semblance of wet rock, but the palms of your hands tell a different story. It feels like organic tissue, a thick layer of hide, with the elastic strength of muscle. Like sharkskin, it is silken and slick in one direction but resists any backwards movement with a roughened grain.\n\nValerie follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "The secret door bangs shut and disappears. The tunnel begins to shiver, and from up ahead a roar like a waterfall issues from the darkness. Your hands suddenly lose traction as gravity begins its quickening pull. You begin to slide down... down... down...\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Zarf's Apartment (in Zarf's head) (as Peter)\nZarf seems at first to be in a library, but on second glance, he's just at home but owns a *lot* of books. A couple thousand of them, by the looks of it. He is holding a bar code scanner and is scanning the ISBN numbers of books from a tall stack, one at a time, into his computer.\n\nInside of Zarf's head, you see weird flashes of light. A number of eerie sounds float around. You presume these effects are caused by the random firing of synapses in a very active mind. A deep shadow here slashes diagonally, refusing the light.\n\n\"Okay, I'll stay here,\" says Valerie. \"Try to get that panel activated. I'll holler if I see anything happen.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the books", "response": "There are hundreds and hundreds of books, too many to describe individually.\n\nZarf scans another book from the stack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the shadow", "response": "You touch the shadow, and feel a chill go through your bones.\n\n\"I think he felt that,\" yells Valerie.\n\nInside Zarf's Brain (as Peter)\nThe noise is really loud here, and there is more to see. A visual juxtaposition mars your sense of place. The walls are angular but smooth, are a warm red, living rock, are cold dead clay and calcite. Cave tunnels lead in all directions, but without a compass or a way to mark your trail, you sense that you could easily get lost.\n\nYou can see a control panel here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the panel", "response": "The control panel has the appearance of a music stand, rising from a single stalk to about the height of your rib cage. The flat surface has but one button and a rectangular plate about four inches by six inches.\n\nOut of the corner of your eye, you notice a curious gentleman leaning against the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the photo on the plate", "response": "You put the blurry photo onto the ceramic plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the microphone", "response": "It is a slender golden rod with a burnished tip. The tip contains a spherical windscreen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "Please use >TALK TO PLAYER to interact in this game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Zarf", "response": "(the microphone)\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Test. Test. Testing 1, 2, 3, 4. Hello?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Test. Test. Testing 1, 2, 3, 4. Hello?\"\n\nYou feel a sudden sense of pressure and release, and a darkening of the environment.\n\nValerie yells, \"Is it working? He's looking around like he knows someone is messing with him.\"\n\n\"What should I try?\" you ask.\n\n\"It's up to you,\" Valerie yells back.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Umm. Zarf, drop your book.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Umm. Zarf, drop your book.\"\n\nThere is a slight shift in the floor, then a heavy, echoing thud from somewhere outside.\n\nValerie yells, \"Yay! He dropped the book! Try something else.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Zarf, stand up.\n2: Zarf, do the funky chicken.\n3: Zarf, explain 'So Far'.\n4: Zarf, give me all your chocolate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Zarf, stand up.\"\n\nYou feel a sudden shift as the floor seems to tilt underneath you, then rights itself. You feel a sense of fast upward motion.\n\n\"You must have felt that,\" Valerie yells. \"Okay, he's looking around like he can't figure out what's going on. Try something else.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Zarf, do the funky chicken.\n2: Zarf, explain 'So Far'.\n3: Zarf, give me all your chocolate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You say, \"Zarf, explain 'So Far'.\"\n\nA hollow noise rumbles up from the caves, like gigantic steel doors swinging shut and locking. From the shadows, the stranger with the rucksack and stiletto speaks in a low voice, saying, \"I do not explain my work. You, however, have some explaining to do.\" He steals closer, an inch at a time, circling you.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Valerie, help!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "You say, \"Zarf, give me all your chocolate.\"\n\nThere is a groan like heavy roof timbers creaking, underscored by a low metallic grinding.\n\nValerie yells, \"Hey! What did you tell him to do?\"\n\n\"I told him to give me all his chocolate,\" you shout back. \"Why, what's he doing? It feels like we're moving.\"\n\nValerie says, \"I don't think he's the kind of guy who easily surrenders his chocolate. I think he's starting to catch on that there's someone messing with his brain here. Careful what else you try.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Zarf, do the funky chicken.\n2: Zarf, explain 'So Far'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "What would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Zarf, do the funky chicken.\n2: Zarf, explain 'So Far'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Zarf, do the funky chicken.\"\n\nValerie yells, \"I didn't feel anything. What did you try?\"\n\n\"I told him to do the funky chicken,\" you yell back.\n\nYou hear Valerie laugh. \"Maybe he doesn't know that dance. Try something else.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Zarf, explain 'So Far'.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Valerie, help!\"\n\nA violent red light pulses through the inside of the brain. Valerie enters, looking spooked.\n\nValerie says, \"Uh oh, I think he's pissed.\"\n\n\"Who are you two?\" the thief demands, extending his stiletto blade.\n\nYou back slowly away from the control panel, your eye on the tunnel openings. \"What do we do now?\" you ask Valerie. \"Usually the trip ends by this point.\"\n\nThe thief circles closer, his eyes locked on yours, glinting in the darkness the same as his blade.\n\n\"What if we get stuck here?\" Valerie wonders aloud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the thief", "response": "You can't think of anything to say.\n\nThe thief suddenly lunges. Valerie yanks you backwards.\n\n\"Run!\" she screams.\n\n\"Which way?\"\n\n\"*Any* way!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You run", "response": "You'll have to say which compass direction to go in.\n\nThe thief quickly dispatches both you and Valerie with quick, upward thrusts of his blade into your hearts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You experience blind panic for the first time in your life, despite the absurdity of the setting, and the recognizable fiction of the threat. Your life; how small and petty it all seems, and how short. There is little light in these twisting tunnels, and the faster you run, the more time moves in slow motion, and your thoughts turn inward. Your life has been blind and short, you think; appropriate, because down this last dark turn of the cave tunnel you have met with an unexpected, dead end.\n\nIt is the classic dead end. More than that, it is the archetypal dead end. Nowhere forward, nowhere back. The ceiling shocks with its height, the walls oppress with their closeness. There are no exits.\n\nA helix of light hangs in the air here, twirling and changing colors.\n\nYou can also see Valerie here.\n\n\"We're trapped!\" whispers Valerie, as much color drained from her face as there is pulsating in the helix above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "There are no exits.\n\nThe thief enters, his stiletto blade extended. \"You two don't belong here,\" he says. \"And I believe you have something of mine.\"\n\n\"Help!\" you yell. \"Hel--\"\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nHedge\nSpiny, poky leaves weed their way through your clothing and stab you in uncomfortable and sensitive places.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You are at the northwest edge of the corporate campus. A decorated line of hedges hidden by a corner of stately trees, with leaves that gently whisper in the evening wind.\n\nYou can see Valerie and a large hedge here.\n\n\"Okay, that was freaky,\" says Valerie.\n\n\"Yeah, let's call it a night,\" you say.\n\n\"Oh come on. This is getting fun. This is my kind of Interactive Fiction!\"\n\n\"More like interactive reality. Oh, damn. Where is it? I've lost the photo.\"\n\n\"Maybe you dropped it when we fell. Look in the hedge.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search hedge", "response": "There's nothing in the hedge.\n\n\"It's not there,\" you say.\"I bet the thief took it. That means the show's over.\"\n\n\"Do you think we should tell Zarf about this?\"\n\n\"Hmm. Maybe it's better if he doesn't know.\"\n\n\"I don't know about that. If it were your head, wouldn't you want to know that people were hacking into it?\"\n\n\"Good point. Okay, we'll tell him first thing tomorrow.\"\n\n\"Agreed,\" says Valerie.\n\n\"Agreed,\" you say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "\"Can I walk you to your car?\" you ask Valerie.\n\n\"You can limp me there,\" she says, grimacing. \"I think I twisted my ankle.\"\n\nYou puff out your chest. \"I can carry you, if you want.\"\n\nValerie laughs. \"Ooh. The last of the gallant gentlemen.\" She shakes her head. \"No thanks, I'm tough,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kiss valerie", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Oh, come on. Take the hint and be gallant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You carry valerie", "response": "Peter carries Valerie to her car, trying desperately not to huff and sweat and collapse.\n\nEarly the next morning, Zarf wakes and takes a long walk to work, trying to blow off some steam. It doesn't help...\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You carry valerie", "response": "** Library error 10 (0,0) **\n\nYou are *pissed*. Someone's been messing with you, and you know exactly who it was. *How* they did it, you don't know, but that's the first thing on your mind this morning. Find evil scum, tell evil scum off. Then, get some work done.\n\nOn the computer is a MUD window. You are logged onto ifMUD.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look about the same as always.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ifmud", "response": "Sargent says (to Zarf), \"Hey.\"\ninky says, \"hi Z\"\nIain says, \"Hullo.\"\nYou say, \"grnn. Not happy.\"\nRob says (to Iain), \"that's what I thought until recently\"\nIain says (to Rob), \"Oh?\"\nSargent says (to Zarf), \"What's up?\"\ninky says, \"erm?\"\nYou say, \"Details not important. I have a mission to destroy\nevil\nscum.\"\nSargent says, \"Ugly buildup in the bathtub?\"\ninky says, \"probably some sort of foaming cleanser is in order\"\nRob says, \"bleach and a stiff brush will take care of that\"\nAdam says, \"You coul-- Damn it.\"\nSargent says, \"HA ha.\"\nEmily groans.\n\nSuddenly, Evil Scum are here. You recognize one of them only from a vivid mental snapshot that appeared yesterday morning. You recognize the other from seeing her around once or twice. You are not pleased to see either of them, although it saves you the trouble of hunting them down.\n\n\"Um, hi Mr. Plotkin,\" says the first.\n\n\"I'm Valerie Conrad, and this is Peter Feeney,\" says the other.\n\n\"We came to tell you about -- something weird that we discovered.\"\n\n\"It's a portal into your head,\" says Valerie, which doesn't make any logical sense, but it does explain things, if it's true.\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: And you decided to take not just one trip, but three? Thanks a *lot*.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Oops", "response": "What would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: And you decided to take not just one trip, but three? Thanks a *lot*.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"And you decided to take not just one trip, but three? Thanks a *lot*.\"\n\n\"Sorry about that. It was just ordinary curiosity at first.\"\n\n\"Perfectly natural.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: There's nothing natural or ordinary about it. Where is this portal?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"There's nothing natural or ordinary about it. Where is this portal?\"\n\n\"In the file room.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Take me there. Now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Take me there. Now.\"\n\n\"Well, okay.\"\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ceiling tile", "response": "The ceiling tile is set slightly askew.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "A portal fashioned from slats of aged cedar, the strange secret door is only about three feet high, and painted a shade of crimson. Gold flecks in the paint give it a gaudy, child's-idea-of-magical appearance. Ornate brass hinges, possibly hand-crafted, clamp the door securely to the wall. Beyond being bizarre, it is curiously anachronistic. The portal itself antedates this building by at least a century and a half, in your estimation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the copy machine", "response": "The copier machine sits near the wall, bearing no make or marking that you recognize. Even more curiously, the copier is not plugged in, and yet it definitely seems to be turned on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the copier", "response": "You open the lid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The door swings easily on its hinges, which have been recently oiled. Someone is evidently its caretaker, but it is beyond your ability to guess whom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the portal", "response": "A voice shouts, \"STOP!\" It is an odd voice, a peculiar sounding shout. It sounds less like a voice yelling and more like a normal voice mechanically amplified.\n\n\"Melvin!\" shouts Peter.\n\nThis \"Melvin\" bears no resemblance to any human being, living or dead. The ersatz flesh on his disjointed skeleton is a remarkable elastic, tinted with some care to mimic caucasian melanin. Under the fluorescent light, it reflects slightly too much green, and it wrinkles unnaturally at limb joints. More care has been taken in the face, allowing for a range of facial expressions. Currently, the expression is one of intended menace.\n\n\"You leave me no choice but to terminate you,\" says Melvin. He goes to the copier and punches a sequence of numbers on the button panel. A strange shuddering vibration pulses through the room, from back to front.\n\n\"The file cabinets!\" yells Peter. \"They're moving!\"\n\nThe file cabinets are growing taller. Beneath each, a small footpad is extending, and the cabinet bodies are rising on stalks. A single cycloptic ruby eye irises open on the face of each.\n\nPeter rolls his eyes. \"Well what the heck. It *is* a stupid robot army!\"\n\n\"Go in, quick!\" Valerie orders you.\n\n\"Go! We'll hold him off!\" Peter shouts, bravely. \"I think.\"\n\n[Hit any key.]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You begin to crawl forward, the tunnel floor oozing and pliable under your knees and palms. The tunnel begins to shiver, and from up ahead a roar like a waterfall issues from the darkness. Your hands suddenly lose traction as gravity begins its quickening pull. You begin to slide down... down... down...\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't hit an escape clause, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't hit an escape clause, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))) Recursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))) Recursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return", "response": "You'll have to be more specific about how you want to do that.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself))))))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Escape", "response": "You'll have to be more specific about how you want to do that.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))))))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return 0", "response": "You halt the current execution and pop up to the next level.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself))))))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Return 1", "response": "You halt the current execution and pop up to the next level.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "You halt the current execution and pop up to the next level.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))) Recursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.\nYou seem to want to talk to someone, but I can't see whom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Escape", "response": "You'll have to be more specific about how you want to do that.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return 4000", "response": "You halt the current execution and pop up to the next level.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))) Recursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return 0", "response": "You halt the current execution and pop up to the next level.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself)))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return 0", "response": "You halt the current execution and pop up to the next level.\n\nInside Zarf (Inside Zarf (In yourself))\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return 69105", "response": "You halt the current execution and pop up to the next level.\n\nInside Zarf (In yourself)\nRecursion has always been one of your favorite tools, but you know far too well that if it doesn't return a value, it will recur until the stack overflows and the system crashes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You return 0", "response": "You return the last value, and a shadow falls over you. Touching it, you fall inward. Meanwhile, a few turns ago...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nFile Room (as Peter)\nThe situation has gone from bad to worse, here. The army of mutant little file cabinet robots has herded you and Valerie back against the north wall. The window is behind you. Melvin is across the room, working controls on the copier, which has opened up to reveal some sort of pulsating machine innards.\n\nA secret door has been revealed in the wall.\n\nValerie says, \"What do we do?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: We go out the window.\n2: We attack Melvin.\n3: We make a break for the portal.\n4: We do like Captain Kirk, and incapacitate Melvin with logic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "You say, \"We do like Captain Kirk, and incapacitate Melvin with logic.\"\n\nValerie looks at you like you're the biggest nerd she has ever met, and considering you both work at Red Hat, that's saying something. \"See what you can do, I guess,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Melvin", "response": "What would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Melvin. I submit that your plans are illogical.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Melvin. I submit that your plans are illogical.\"\n\nMelvin looks up at you. \"Illogical?\" he asks. \"My plans are perfect. Not that they're my plans, of course. The Great Brain of Dimension X knows all.\" Melvin begins to fidget, the first time you've seen him nervous since things started to get really weird. \"Who am I to question his perfect logic? I am created in his perfect image. We serve logic. We serve the Great Brain.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: I submit that your orders are illogical.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"I submit that your orders are illogical.\"\n\nMelvin's left eyelid starts to twitch. \"No, no. My orders are perfect. The Great Brain is incapable of error. The Great Brain is God! God is", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "Logic!\"\n\nValerie whispers, \"I think it's working!\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: I submit that *you* are illogical!\n\n>>\n\nYou say, \"I submit that *you* are illogical!\"\n\n\"No -- no, it cannot be!\" Melvin says. He looks confused, staring at the pulsating brain and back to you. \"Logic is God. God is Logic. Those who do not serve God must be destroyed!\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: I submit that the Great Brain is illogical. You serve a false God, a god of illogic! What is the penalty for serving a false God?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"I submit that the Great Brain is illogical. You serve a false God, a god of illogic! What is the penalty for serving a false God?\"\n\nMelvin begins to quiver and shake. \"Illogical... illogical...\" Smoke starts coming of his ears. \"Must -- must -- serve -- groink! Blatt!\" He makes a few sputtering noises and collapses.\n\nValerie says, \"There's no way that should have worked.\"\n\nSuddenly, Melvin springs back to his feet, shoots you an evil grin, and laughs like an insane android might at a time like this.\n\n\"Idiot,\" Melvin says. \"There's no such thing as the Great Brain. I'm just here to kill you because I'm an evil android bastard who loves to kill. And it'll be a special pleasure killing someone so dweebishly gullible.\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: Oh well. It was worth a shot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"Oh well. It was worth a shot.\"\n\nMelvin says, \"Hardly.\" He goes back to fiddling with the pulsating machine brain.\n\nValerie whispers, \"So. Any other bright ideas?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say? [0 to cancel]\n1: I'll pick up one of the cabinets and throw it at Melvin. You should go for the portal. Then I'll figure out some way of getting in there myself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "You say, \"I'll pick up one of the cabinets and throw it at Melvin. You should go for the portal. Then I'll figure out some way of getting in there myself.\"\n\nValerie gives you a kiss. \"For good luck,\" she says as the heroic music swells.\n\nThe conversation kind of trails off at that point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kiss valerie", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cabinet", "response": "You pick up the nearest file cabinet, which turns out to be the Z-Y cabinet. The stupid robot starts making a pathetic squealing noise.\n\n\"Hey! Put him down this instant!\" shrieks Melvin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the cabinet at Melvin", "response": "(the army of mutant little file cabinet robots at Melvin)\n\nWhat heroic catch phrase would you like to utter?\n[1]Here's mud in your eye, sucker! [2]It's clobberin' time!\n[3]Hasta la vista, bubbala! [4]You remember when I said I'd kill you last? I lied!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "2", "response": "\"It's clobberin' time!\" you shout.\n\n\"Who do you think this mutant army is, the Yancy Street Gang?\" Valerie says.\n\n\"Don't ruin my moment. Just get moving!\"\n\nValerie makes a gymnastic diving roll over the sinister little cabinets and disappears into the portal. You fling the little metallic beast at Melvin, but your aim is terrible. Fortunately, you lobbed it so far to the side that it goes smashing into the pulsating copier machine brain heart organ thingy, which implodes and then explodes, emitting a terrific shower of sparks and a sad little dying scream.\n\nAs you might expect, Melvin shouts, \"Noooooooooooo!\" as the little army of stupid robots topples over en masse, vomiting their paper folder guts all over the place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Melvin", "response": "Melvin Prufrock is a thin, translucent looking individual, with tics and other twitchy mannerisms passing for a personality. He is insanely tall, approaching six foot eight, but probably only weighs 130 pounds with clothes on. You don't even want to consider what he's like without clothes on. He also looks like he's about six years younger than you are, so about nineteen, and yet he's several rankings above you on the ladder.\n\nMelvin withdraws some sort of bulbous metal ray gun from one of the dead cabinets. \"You should have escaped when you had the chance, Peter!\" he says as he pulls the trigger. For a moment, you feel absolutely nothing, and then you realize with some shock that this is because your nervous system has been completely vaporized, and the rest of you along with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the portal", "response": "You leap for the portal.\n\nWeird Tunnel (as Peter)\nYou are on your hands and knees in a claustrophobic tunnel. It leads down, as nearly as you can tell, but your equilibrium is distorted in here. The curving walls gleam with the semblance of wet rock, but the palms of your hands tell a different story. It feels like organic tissue, a thick layer of hide, with the elastic strength of muscle. Like sharkskin, it is silken and slick in one direction but resists any backwards movement with a roughened grain.\n\nYou hear Melvin scream, \"You can't get away from *ME*!\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You begin to crawl forward, the tunnel floor oozing and pliable under your knees and palms. The tunnel begins to shiver, and from up ahead a roar like a waterfall issues from the darkness. Your hands suddenly lose traction as gravity begins its quickening pull. You begin to slide down... down... down...\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nInside Zarf's Brain (as Peter)\nThe noise is really loud here, and there is more to see. A visual juxtaposition mars your sense of place. The walls are angular but smooth, are a warm red, living rock, are cold dead clay and calcite. Cave tunnels lead in all directions, but without a compass or a way to mark your trail, you sense that you could easily get lost.\n\nYou can see a control panel, Valerie and Zarf here.\n\n\"You made it!\" says Valerie.\n\n\"Yeah,\" you say, \"But Melvin's right on my tail.\"\n\nZarf seems calm and sagelike. \"It's okay. I know my way around, and I have a plan. Mind you, the timing is apt to be rather ... cruel... from now on.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Melvin fires the ray gun, which emits a sizzling noise and a bright stripe of electric blue laser light. \"EXTERMINATE! EXTERMINATE!\" he screams. The two of you narrowly dodge the beam and follow Zarf down the tunnel.\n\nTunnels (as Peter and Valerie)\nA huge cavern rises above you. The far reaches are lost in shadow mist, and the vaults above fade into a darkness pierced with long columns of stone. Chill water drips and pools in broken declivities. You can hear little else. A river of smoke-grey travertine flows down one wall of the chamber. Pale fungi gleam in phosphorescence somewhere above. Gloomy side chambers stretch off in many directions.\n\nYou can see Zarf here.\n\nZarf says, \"We're going to need a few things. Try to keep up.\"\n\nZarf walks down through the floor. Vivid gold light flares around him.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You follow Zarf through the floor, which melts open around you. You hear Melvin close behind you.\n\nCanyon Wall (as Peter and Valerie)\nMassive buttresses of stone rise all around you, climbing the canyon wall, flowing down again in cascades of pale fluorite. A path seems to climb up among them; but you don't think you can get to it right now.\n\nThe carcass of the Wumpus is heaped before you. Hardened blood trickles from its ravaged hide, puddling on the floor.\n\nThere is a crossbow lying here; near the beast; loaded and cocked.\n\nZarf says, \"Take the crossbow.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the crossbow", "response": "Peter takes the crossbow.\n\nValerie says, \"Poor thing.\"\n\nZarf walks through the east wall. Rich crimson light flares around him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nMelvin enters from the path above, shouting, \"I smell a Wumpus! HA HA HA HA HA!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You follow Zarf through east wall, which melts open around you. You hear Melvin close behind you.\n\nSmall Cave (as Peter and Valerie)\nYou are in a dark pocket, a stony crack below the summit of the hill. It is not quite high enough to stand in, but surprisingly long, narrowing only slowly towards the back. The entrance is a circle of blinding crimson to the west, partially obscured by the boulder.\n\nAn ancient and filthy blanket is crumpled against one wall of the cave.\n\nYou can also see Zarf here.\n\nZarf says, \"Take the blanket.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the blanket", "response": "Valerie takes the blanket.\n\nZarf walks through the south wall. Shimmering grey light flares around him.\n\nMelvin squeezes through the cave opening. \"It's a good thing I remembered to change my batteries!\" he puffs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "If you don't follow Zarf, you will surely be killed.\n\nMelvin fires the ray gun, which emits a sizzling noise and fills the tiny cave with electric blue laser light. \"EXTERMINATE! EXTERMINATE!\" he screams. In the tiny confines of the cave, the deadly beams bounce more than Melvin expects, and he is caught in the backfire. \"Oh, hell,\" he says, as all three of you shred into atoms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You follow Zarf through the south wall. Melvin is one step behind you.\n\nStorage Tent (as Peter and Valerie)\nThis is where the party kept all its supplies. However Roboff seems to have cleaned everything out that was of any use. Several arrows of Da-Glo paint on the wall attract your attention to the empty food and water chests.\nLying on the ground is a brass torch of the \"self-igniting\" type. The ignite button is on the handle.\nThere is a shovel lying here.\n\nYou can also see Zarf here.\n\nZarf says, \"Take the shovel.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shovel", "response": "Peter takes the shovel.\n\nZarf says, \"Okay, we need to take a slight detour.\"\n\nZarf walks up through the ceiling. Pale green light flares around him.\n\nOutside the tent, Melvin hollers, \"Little pigs, little pigs, let me in!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "You follow Zarf through the ceiling. You feel the heat of Melvin's ray gun blast nearly singe your feet.\n\nTunnels (as Peter and Valerie)\nA huge cavern rises above you. The far reaches are lost in shadow mist, and the vaults above fade into a darkness pierced with long columns of stone. Chill water drips and pools in broken declivities. You can hear little else. A river of smoke-grey travertine flows down one wall of the chamber. Pale fungi gleam in phosphorescence somewhere above. Gloomy side chambers stretch off in many directions.\n\nYou can see Zarf here.\n\nZarf says, \"Fortunately, these tunnels lead everywhere. Come along.\"\n\nZarf walks through the south wall. Rosy pink light flares around him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You follow Zarf through the south wall. Melvin is one step behind you.\n\nIn Roc Nest (as Peter and Valerie)\nThis nest is made from skillfully woven tree trunks, small bushes, and large amounts of mud and roc guano for glue. Giant black feathers are everywhere. In the center of the nest is an egg the size of a small wagon. Nestled beneath the egg is a featureless white cube.\nThe roc perches on the side of the nest, watching you intently.\nThere is a stained scroll here.\n\nYou can also see Zarf here.\n\nZarf says, \"Take the scroll.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cube", "response": "The roc, convinced you are threatening its precious egg, drives you away before you can snatch the cube.\n\nMelvin materializes through the rock face. \"Where the hell are we?\" he says, staring around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the scroll", "response": "Valerie takes the stained scroll.\n\nZarf walks through the west wall of the nest. Blinding white light flares around him.\n\nMelvin fires the ray gun, which emits a sizzling noise and a bright stripe of electric blue laser light. \"EXTERMINATE! EXTERMINATE!\" he screams. He manages to take out not just you and Valerie, but the roc, the egg, the cube, and the nest as well. Your glittering ashes take several slow minutes to settle far below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the scroll", "response": "Valerie takes the stained scroll.\n\nZarf walks through the west wall of the nest. Blinding white light flares around him.\n\nMelvin materializes through the rock face. \"Where the hell are we?\" he says, staring around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You follow Zarf through the west wall. You hear Melvin yelling, \"Bad bird! Bad!\"\n\nControl Room (as Peter and Valerie)\nThis is the control room for all the machinery nearby. The controls are all magical, of course. The walls are covered by blinking lights and shifting displays, interspersed with arcane dials and glowing buttons. It's all very mysterious looking. The exit, to the northwest, leads into a room with machinery which would surely crush you if you were to attempt to enter it.\nA scroll of old, brittle parchment is here.\n\"Crash!\" A huge hammer smashes against the stone floor outside.\n\nZarf says, \"Take the scroll.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get scroll", "response": "(the brittle scroll)\nPeter takes the brittle scroll.\n\nZarf says, \"I need to take my own detour. You two, take the northwest exit, wait for Melvin, and incapacitate him. Lay a trap if need be. I'll rejoin you after.\"\n\n\"Crash!\" A huge hammer smashes against the stone floor outside.\n\n\"Are you sure we can get through that?\" Peter asks.\n\nZarf touches a shadow and vanishes.\n\n\"Oh. Great.\"\n\n\"Crash!\" A huge hammer smashes against the stone floor outside.\n\nMelvin bursts in from the east wall, covered with talon scratches and roc feathers. \"Note to self: Don't mess with the roc egg,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the scroll", "response": "Which do you mean, the brittle scroll or the stained scroll?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You make it across the room, but just barely; just as you duck through the door, a huge hammer crashes down behind, missing by an inch. Something you stepped on along the way clicked as well, and with a horrible screeching noise, the machinery speeds up, crashing faster and faster until it's twice as fast as before.\n\nFrom behind, you hear Melvin cry, \"Hey! No fair!\" That machinery ought to slow him down for at least a minute or two.\n\nDead End (as Peter and Valerie)\nIt is the classic dead end. More than that, it is the archetypal dead end. Nowhere forward, nowhere back. The ceiling shocks with its height, the walls oppress with their closeness. There are no exits.\n\nMelvin will be here at any moment.\n\n\"Do we know what to do?\" Valerie asks Peter.\n\n\"I hope so, or we're dead.\" Peter says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na brittle scroll\na stained scroll\na shovel\na blanket\na crossbow", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at brittle", "response": "The scroll reads \"kulcad spell: dispel a magic spell\". The spell seems very long and extremely complicated.\n\nYou hear the distant crash of a giant hammer, followed by a small shriek from Melvin. It sounded more disappointed than fatal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at stained", "response": "The scroll reads \"caskly spell: cause perfection.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dig", "response": "What do you want to dig?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shovel", "response": "Peter attacks the soft ground with the shovel. It seems to magically bite large chunks at a time, like a ravenous rodent burrowing into angel food cake. The scooped material seems to vanish like evaporating bubbles, leaving only a deep pit behind.\n\nUnfortunately, Peter himself ends up at the bottom of it.\n\nThere is a terrific crash and then a fast series of metallic whupping noises. Melvin comes limping in through the southeast wall, looking the worse for wear. Several spears are skewered in his sides, and one leg drags limply behind him.\n\n\"My ray gun got smashed by the hammer,\" he mopes.He looks down in the pit and laughs. \"What are you doing down there, digging a latrine? Don't worry about that. Time to die.\"\n\nWith a steely 'snikt', long metal blades protrude out of his knuckles.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Inside Zarf's Brain (as Peter)\nThe noise is really loud here, and there is more to see. A visual juxtaposition mars your sense of place. The walls are angular but smooth, are a warm red, living rock, are cold dead clay and calcite. Cave tunnels lead in all directions, but without a compass or a way to mark your trail, you sense that you could easily get lost.\n\nYou can see a control panel, Valerie and Zarf here.\n\nThere is a sound like a vacuum implosion, and a flash of light. Melvin tumbles into view, holding some sort of ray gun.\n\n\"He's got a gun!\" shouts Valerie.\n\nZarf says, \"Follow me, please.\"\n\nZarf leaves to the northwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Melvin fires the ray gun, which emits a sizzling noise and a bright stripe of electric blue laser light. \"EXTERMINATE! EXTERMINATE!\" he screams. The two of you narrowly dodge the beam and follow Zarf down the tunnel.\n\nTunnels (as Peter and Valerie)\nA huge cavern rises above you. The far reaches are lost in shadow mist, and the vaults above fade into a darkness pierced with long columns of stone. Chill water drips and pools in broken declivities. You can hear little else. A river of smoke-grey travertine flows down one wall of the chamber. Pale fungi gleam in phosphorescence somewhere above. Gloomy side chambers stretch off in many directions.\n\nYou can see Zarf here.\n\nZarf says, \"We're going to need a few things. Try to keep up.\"\n\nZarf walks down through the floor. Vivid gold light flares around him.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "If you don't follow Zarf, you will surely be killed.\n\nMelvin enters from the southeast. \"Aha! There you are, my pretties!\" he cackles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You dig the shovel", "response": "Peter attacks the soft ground with the shovel. It seems to magically bite large chunks at a time, like a ravenous rodent burrowing into angel food cake. The scooped material seems to vanish like evaporating bubbles, leaving only a deep pit behind.\n\nUnfortunately, Peter himself ends up at the bottom of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "There are no exits.\n\nYou hear the distant crash of a giant hammer, followed by a small shriek from Melvin. It sounded more disappointed than fatal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blanket on the hole", "response": "Putting things on the deep pit would achieve nothing.\n\nYou hear the distant crash of a giant hammer, followed by a small shriek from Melvin. It sounded more disappointed than fatal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cover the pit with the blanket", "response": "Valerie throws the blanket across the opening of the pit, covering it completely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Caskly blanket", "response": "The casting feels wrong, and you are momentarily blinded.\n\nThere is a terrific crash and then a fast series of metallic whupping noises. Melvin comes limping in through the southeast wall, looking the worse for wear. Several spears are skewered in his sides, and one leg drags limply behind him.\n\n\"My ray gun got smashed by the hammer,\" he mopes.\"Hey, where's your boyfriend? You two get separated? Don't worry, you guys will have a touching reunion in Hell.\"\n\nWith a steely 'snikt', long metal blades protrude out of his knuckles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stained scroll\n\nMelvin takes a limping step forward and, like the idiot he always was, falls for the trap and topples into the pit, just barely missing Peter.\n\nIn the Pit (as Peter)\nYou are down in the bottom of the pit. Crudely carved, spongy walls lead up to a narrow opening.\n\nYou can see a blanket here.\n\nMelvin looks like he's gotten the wind knocked out of him, if that's possible. Probably getting past the crashing machinery trap took more out of him than you guessed. He stands up woozily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at stained", "response": "The scroll reads \"caskly spell: cause perfection.\"\n\nThere is a terrific crash and then a fast series of metallic whupping noises. Melvin comes limping in through the southeast wall, looking the worse for wear. Several spears are skewered in his sides, and one leg drags limply behind him.\n\n\"My ray gun got smashed by the hammer,\" he mopes.\"Hey, where's your boyfriend? You two get separated? Don't worry, you guys will have a touching reunion in Hell.\"\n\nWith a steely 'snikt', long metal blades protrude out of his knuckles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the scroll", "response": "The scroll reads \"caskly spell: cause perfection.\"\n\nMelvin takes a limping step forward and, like the idiot he always was, falls for the trap and topples into the pit, just barely missing Peter.\n\nIn the Pit (as Peter)\nYou are down in the bottom of the pit. Crudely carved, spongy walls lead up to a narrow opening.\n\nYou can see a blanket here.\n\nMelvin looks like he's gotten the wind knocked out of him, if that's possible. Probably getting past the crashing machinery trap took more out of him than you guessed. He stands up woozily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot Melvin with the crossbow", "response": "You shoot the crossbow at Melvin, who is too disoriented to deflect the bolt. It plunges straight into his gizzard. \"EEEAGH!!\" he cries his last, before exploding into a million shiny pieces. Melvin is no more.\n\n\"That was funky,\" Valerie says from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Gnusto scroll", "response": "You don't have a spell book.\n\n\"Come on up,\" Valerie calls down to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "Peter climbs out of the pit and rejoins Valerie.\n\nDead End (as Peter and Valerie)\nIt is the classic dead end. More than that, it is the archetypal dead end. Nowhere forward, nowhere back. The ceiling shocks with its height, the walls oppress with their closeness. There are no exits.\n\nA deep pit has been dug here by Peter.\n\nZarf appears in a cloud of orange smoke, wearing a long blue cloak with electroluminescent highlights. He surveys the scene calmly. \"Okay,\" he says, retrieving the blanket and the crossbow.\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n[1]How do we get out of here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"Like this,\" he says, and withdraws a small white cube and a spell book from his cloak.\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nFile Room (as Peter and Valerie)\nThe room is a disaster area. Ruined cabinets lie everywhere, the remains of a once mighty (but very silly) army. The exploded pulsating copier machine innards are leaking trails of acrid ochre smoke into the air. Scorched company documents, flung willy nilly in the battle, carpet the floor, hiding only the smallest of the many scuffs and scratches.\n\nThe secret door lies exposed in the wall.\n\nYou can also see Zarf here.\n\n\"Now,\" says Zarf. \"Your turn again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Caskly", "response": "Zarf says, \"Try the other one first.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Gnusto", "response": "What do you want to gnusto?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na brittle scroll\na stained scroll", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine brittle", "response": "The scroll reads \"kulcad spell: dispel a magic spell\". The spell seems very long and extremely complicated.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at stained", "response": "The scroll reads \"caskly spell: cause perfection.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kulcad door", "response": "Peter intones the Kulcad scroll. It is long and complicated, and he stumbles over the unfamiliar language. However, the magic is too powerful to be constrained. The more he reads, the clearer his pronunciation becomes, as the magic works through him. As he finishes the incantation, there is a noise like the rushing of open wind through a great tunnel. The secret door ripples and shimmers, trapped in a state between reality and mirage. Then, so suddenly that it is missed in a blink, the door is gone, leaving only a blank wall. There is no trace that it had ever been here.\n\nZarf nods. \"Now the other,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Caskly", "response": "Valerie intones the caskly spell. The room begins to melt; plaster, plastic, metal, and glass drip down like wax; loose papers lift and twirl in swelling eddies, spinning upwards from all directions.\n\nThen, familiar forms start reasserting themselves. Torn pages mend themselves out of the whirlwind, flowing back into place. Cabinet after cabinet slots itself into position, drawers agape, eating documents that file themselves. All is changed. The copier machine refuses its alien origins and becomes happily mudane, humming to life and churning out copies of a wonderfully boring document.\n\n\"What just happened?\" Valerie asks.\n\n\"Take a look,\" says Zarf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at machine", "response": "The copier has a lid which covers a big pane of glass, and a panel with buttons. The big green button makes copies. That's all you've ever needed to push on it. In fact, your annoying supervisor, Melvin Prufrock, impressed upon you, at stammering length, how temperamental the machine is, and how expensive copier repair guys are. Bah.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "File Room (as Peter)\nThe file room looks considerably cleaner, perhaps better than before. The reassuring familiarity of its short, slumping ceiling seems now to brighten your morale. Short file cabinets, marked in reverse alphabetical order, stand in a clean line along the walls like a perfect set of teeth. A window affords a beautiful view and a kind square of sunlight.\n\n\"Congratulations, that's the end of the story,\" says Zarf, pacing back and forth. \"But, that's not *really* the way it happened, is it?\"\n\nWhat would you like to say?\n[1]Yes.[2]No.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "1", "response": "\"Don't be absurd. You have an active imagination; that much is true. The rest of it -- a patchwork, a pastiche! Let me refresh your memory for you.\" You see a glint of something shiny in his hand.\n\n-- glaring light...\n\n[Hit any key.]\nAt last, your troubled fortunes seemed to come to an end. It all happened very quickly: the callback from Red Hat, the bizarre interview with Human Resources, the handshake, the filling out of W-2 forms, and then your first day of work.\n\nAnd then the next day of work, and the next, and the next. Life goes on, routinely and normally, happily ever after.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Notes", "response": "Please give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Endnotes", "response": "Please give one of the answers above.\n\nPlease give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Please give one of the answers above.\nPlease give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Author's end notes", "response": "Please give one of the answers above.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Mystery", "Historical", "Literary" ]

[ "commercial", "cover art", "detective", "Infocom", "London", "mystery", "Sherlock Holmes", "standard difficulty", "tie-in" ]

[ 1, 10, 8, 1, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Sherlock: The Riddle of the Crown Jewels\nCopyright 1987 Infocom, Inc.\n\n221-B Baker Street\n\nYou are standing in the spill of a gas streetlight outside Holmes's house. The street disappears into the fog to the north and south. The door to the house is to the west.\n\nYou have come in response to an urgent summons from your old landlady, Mrs Hudson. As the fog swirls around you, you huddle into your coat and shiver in the predawn chill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYour pocket contains:\na pound note.\nYou are holding:\na black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the hat", "response": "You take off your hat. Inside you see a stethoscope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stethoscope", "response": "You take the stethoscope out of your hat.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 1 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the coat", "response": "It's a wool greatcoat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "You open the black bag.\nInside you see a brown bottle and a blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the brown bottle", "response": "The label on the bottle reads: \"Belladonna. For bradycardia and other decelerated arrhythmias.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine blue bottle", "response": "The label on the bottle reads: \"Digitalis leaf. For tachycardia and other accelerated arrhythmias.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "You hear a bolt sliding back and the door opens to reveal a worried Mrs Hudson.\n\n\"Oh Doctor Watson, I'm so glad to see you. It's Mr Holmes, sir. Three days have come and gone since he's been out of his rooms. He won't eat and I know he hasn't slept. Now there's a visitor who says he's here about some important government business. I tried to send him away, but he insisted on waiting in the parlour. That's when I sent for you. Thank God you've come.\"\n\nYou step inside and Mrs Hudson closes the door behind you. The entry hall is just as you remember it - small, underheated, and lit by a feeble gas light. The door to the parlour is to the north, and a flight of well-worn stairs leads up to the first floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mrs Hudson about the sherlock", "response": "\"He doesn't eat. He doesn't drink. He doesn't read the newspaper. I'm very worried about him.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Mrs Hudson about whistle", "response": "Mrs Hudson wrings her hands and looks at you anxiously. \"I'm too worried to think, Doctor. Won't you see what you can do for Mr Holmes?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Mrs Hudson apologetically stands in front of the closed door. \"I'm terribly worried about Mr Holmes, Doctor. Won't you please attend to him right away?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You climb the stairs and pause outside the door to Holmes's study, nervous about what you might find inside.\n\nHolmes's study is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You step back through time to your bachelor days, when you shared these cluttered digs with the world's only consulting detective. Despite the mess, you can see that the room is unchanged. The fireplace to the north has a pile of letters transfixed to its mantelpiece by a jackknife. Next to them lies Holmes's six-shot revolver, the tobacco slipper, and Holmes's favorite pipe. The violin has been carelessly tossed onto a stack of obviously unread newspapers.\n\nHolmes is slouched on the sofa, lost in a black mood of despair. He is pale and emaciated, and his sharp eyes burn with fever. He is staring at a phial that he holds in one hand. His free hand rests near a hypodermic syringe in a neat morocco case at his side. You realize that he is fighting a depression brought on by what he calls \"the dull routine of existence.\"\n\nThe bedroom door to the west is closed. The only other exit is the door to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pipe", "response": "It is an old and oily black clay pipe, the companion of Holmes's deepest meditations.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the slipper", "response": "In the persian slipper you see some tobacco.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tobacco", "response": "You take the tobacco out of the persian slipper.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 2 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pipe", "response": "You take the pipe off of the mantelpiece.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 3 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the violin", "response": "It is a Stradivarius violin of exceptional quality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the violin", "response": "You take the violin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the slipper", "response": "You take the persian slipper off of the mantelpiece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop slipper", "response": "You drop the persian slipper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tobacco in the pipe", "response": "You put the tobacco in the pipe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the newspapers", "response": "You take the newspaper.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 4 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mantle", "response": "On the mantelpiece can be seen a knife, some mail and a pistol.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gun", "response": "You take the pistol off of the mantelpiece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the newspaper", "response": "It's the newspaper that came in your game package.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the paper to Holmes", "response": "Holmes glances at the paper and his eye falls on the notice about the Tower of London. He immediately leaps to his feet and hurls the phial and the case into the fireplace. The phial and the syringe shatter, and the liquid evaporates instantly, but the detective does not even notice. \"They've closed the Tower?\" he exclaims. \"Most singular.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 9 out of\n100.]\n\nHolmes strides to the door and calls down to Mrs Hudson to bring up a tray of food. Then he plops back down on the sofa, makes a steeple of his fingertips and focuses his intense gaze upon you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about Tower", "response": "\"The Tower is the safest stronghold in the nation. Our adversary must be formidable indeed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about Watson", "response": "\"Good old Watson! You are the one fixed point in a changing age. I am honoured that you have become my biographer.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about Mrs Hudson", "response": "\"A splendid housekeeper, Watson, although she worries about me too much.\"\n\nMrs Hudson appears at the door, accompanied by a worried-looking gentleman.\n\nHolmes jumps up and ushers the gentleman to the armchair, dismissing Mrs Hudson at the same time. \"Watson,\" he says, \"I am sure you recognize our distinguished visitor. I presume, sir, that you have come about the Jewels.\"\n\nThe visitor half rises from his chair in protest and sputters, \"But...but, how...?\"\n\nHolmes calms him with a glance. \"Come, sir. What else could it be? The Tower is suddenly closed, and within hours I receive a call from the highest official of Her Majesty's government. A simple deduction. Now then, tell me about the theft.\"\n\nThe visitor settles back into his chair and says, \"We know very little. Only that the Crown Jewels were stolen from the Tower sometime Thursday night. The theft was discovered Friday morning, and we immediately closed and searched the Tower. All we found was this verse which was left behind in the empty jewel case.\"\n\nThe visitor removes a folded piece of paper from his pocket and gives it to Holmes, who glances at it and passes it on to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "[taking the pound note out of your pocket first].\nThere's nothing written on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read paper", "response": "Which paper do you mean, the clue paper or the newspaper?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the clue paper", "response": "Mortality, behold and fear!\nWhat a change of flesh is here!\nThink how many royal bones\nSleep within this heap of stones:\nHere they lie, had realms and lands,\nWho now want strength\nto stir their hands.\n\n\n\nFor two-score years I reigned alone,\nA virgin queen on England's throne.\nMy navy caused Armada's shame,\nAnd with me died the Tudor name.\n\n\n\nThe apple sorely tempted Eve,\nAnd Tell another aimed to cleave.\nBut when one fell, it showed to me,\nThe mighty pull of gravity.\n\n\n\nMy father, it was said, would die,\nBeneath the Holy City's sky.\nJerusalem his body claimed,\nAnd it is after him I'm named.\n\n\n\n\n\nO stately Holmes of England,\nIn Baker Street abide.\nFor even you must surely fail,\nTo save your country's pride.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about the note", "response": "\"You must draw your own inferences, Watson.\"\n\nThe visitor looks at his pocket watch and stands up. \"Thank you, gentlemen. I must go now. Remember, this calamity can only be hidden from the public until Monday morning at nine o'clock. If the Regalia is not at Buckingham Palace in time for the Coronation Day festivities, then all is lost.\"\n\nThe gentleman leaves, and Holmes unlocks the door to the bedroom, goes in, and reappears moments later wearing his Inverness cape and deerstalker hat.\n\n\"Come when you're ready, Watson. I'll wait for you outside.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the knife", "response": "You take the knife off of the mantelpiece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The study is in its usual disarray.\n\nThe bedroom door to the west is open. The only other exit is the door to the south.\n\nYou see a persian slipper. You see some mail on the mantelpiece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You leave the study and pause outside the door. You are on a landing at the top of the stairs.\n\nHolmes's study is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You descend the stairs into the entry hall. The parlour door is to the north. The front door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You walk into a dreary, late Victorian Era parlour.\n\nYou see a matchbook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get matchbook", "response": "You take the matchbook.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 10 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the matchbook", "response": "Tired of your dull, boring job? Tired of the whole Victorian era? Become a detective! Apply now to the LESTRADE school of sleuthing. In just three short days, Inspector G. Lestrade will teach you everything he knows of the art of detection. Here are just some of the things you'll learn.\n\n*** Fifteen new and exciting ways to\nsay \"'Ullo! Wot's this?\"\n*** Modern obfuscatory locution\neschewel techniques.\n*** How to insult private detectives.\n\nIncluded in your tuition is an official Scotland Yard notebook, and a brand new bobby pin. Just send twenty-five pounds to the LESTRADE, that's L-E-S-T-R-A-D-E school of sleuthing. Act now, and the Inspector will tell you how he knows that people are guilty simply by looking at them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk out into the entry hall. The front door is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "[The front door]\n\nYou open the front door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "You emerge from the house into Baker Street.\n\nYou are standing in the spill of a gas streetlight outside Holmes's house. The street disappears into the fog to the north and south. The door to the house is to the west.\n\nHolmes says, \"Ah, there you are Watson. While you were inside I gave our little problem some thought. Obviously the person who stole the Crown Jewels wanted the authorities to turn to me for help, and it is equally obvious that the thief has laid down a trail for me to follow, in hopes of somehow entrapping me.\n\n\"So let's play his game, Doctor. But let's play it by our rules. The thief will have tried to anticipate the sequence of my actions, and I'm sure he has laid his trap accordingly. But if you were to\nguide the course of our investigations, he will certainly be thrown off the scent.\n\n\"Therefore, let us take surprise onto our side and rely on your instincts as the man of action I know you to be - despite your frequent modest assertions to the contrary.\" He steps to one side and says, \"Lead on, good Doctor. I will follow.\" Holmes gestures for you to lead the way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!\n\nA hansom cab pulls up beside you.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 15 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the cab", "response": "You and Holmes get into the cab.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tower of London", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou are in a cab outside the entrance to the Tower of London. Next to the entrance there is a sign.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n[Press any key to continue.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You and Holmes get out of the cab. After you get out, it drives off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na matchbook.\na knife.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na pistol.\na newspaper.\na violin.\na pipe.\na stethoscope.\nyour hat.\na black bag.\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco\nIn the black bag you see:\na brown bottle\na blue bottle", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!\n\nA hansom cab pulls up beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Westminster abbey", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou are in a cab in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey loom in the fog above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is closed.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nVisibility increases in the gathering light of the new day. Tourists are beginning to crowd into the streets.\n[Press any key to continue.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the gun in the bag", "response": "You put the pistol in the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the knife in the bag", "response": "You put the knife in the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close bag", "response": "You close the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na matchbook.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na newspaper.\na violin.\na pipe.\na stethoscope.\nyour hat.\na black bag.\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play the violin", "response": "Holmes grimaces in pain and glares at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are standing in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is closed.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nYour friend is staring at the sky, as if he might find a clue there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "In the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\nThe sun comes up, as much as it ever comes up in England.\n\nA verger appears, unlocks the huge door, and pushes it open.\n\n\n\nYou enter Victoria Street, which runs east and west between Victoria Square and Broad Sanctuary.\n\nYou see a sign outside one of the shops.\n\nThe detective walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are standing in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is open.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You enter the Abbey and pause in the Nave, struck by the sheer magnificence of the building. Massive Purbeck columns march the length of the Nave, and they rise in perfect proportion to meet each other in a series of pointed arches that are the hallmark of the Gothic style.\n\nThe interior of the Abbey is dark, cold, and gloomy - but after a few moments your eyes adjust and you can make out a tomb at the far end of the room.\n\nHolmes trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tomb", "response": "It's a white marble sarcophagus with \"ISAACVS NEWTON Eques Auratus\" written on the front. Above it is a marble statue of Newton, and a carving of two cherubs who are holding a diagram of the solar system.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about Newton", "response": "[Newton's tomb]\n\n\"You must draw your own inferences, Watson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the diagram", "response": "Your friend looks at you grimly and says, \"I thought you had more sense than that, Watson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the tomb", "response": "You would have to open it first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You walk into the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tomb", "response": "It's a simple tomb, with a brief inscription written on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the inscription", "response": "The inscription is written in Latin, but you can make out the name \"Anne of Cleves.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are in the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nYour companion's brow is furrowed in intense concentration.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nHolmes enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tombs", "response": "There are so many of them! None stands out in particular.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You enter the Evangelist Chapel and wonder what it is about this room that makes you feel it is somehow different from the rest of the Abbey.\n\nYour friend follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tombs", "response": "One tomb in particular catches your eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at tomb", "response": "It's an effigy of a man surrounded by four knights, who are holding up a marble slab on their shoulders. On the slab is the dead man's armour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the North Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tomb", "response": "It's a huge monument to William Pitt. On the base of the monument are five allegorical figures and an elaborate inscription.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the inscription", "response": "The inscription is written in Latin, but you can make out the name \"Pitt.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine figures", "response": "You've never understood allegorical figures before. What makes you think you can start now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You return to the welcome warmth provided by the array of candles in the Evangelist Chapel.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nYour friend trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tomb", "response": "There are so many of them! None stands out in particular.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You walk into the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk into the hushed, secluded part of the Abbey known as Poets' Corner. The monuments here are dedicated to Britain's literary giants. The oldest of the tombs is that of Geoffrey Chaucer, who died in the year 1400.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Chaucer", "response": "[Geoffrey Chaucer's tomb]\n\nIt's the tomb of Geoffrey Chaucer, who died in 1400 and became the first person to be buried in Poet's Corner. The inscription above the sarcophagus is so faded that it is almost illegible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the inscription", "response": "The inscription is a long one, but in the middle of it you see the name \"GALFRIDVS CHAVCER.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Look", "response": "[What do you want to x?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the South Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "It is the largest rose window in all England, and it brightens up an otherwise gloomy interior.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about the window", "response": "\"You must draw your own inferences, Watson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the South Aisle of the Nave. In the gloom, you bump into one of the tombs. There is an exit to the southeast and a door set into the south wall.\n\nThe detective drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the inscription", "response": "The inscription is written in Latin, but you can make out the name \"Alexander Pope.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the door to the Jericho Parlour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "From the vastness of the Nave, you pass into the more intimate Jericho Parlour, which is the anteroom to the famous Jerusalem Chamber just to the west.\n\nThe exit to the Nave is to the north.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You enter the Jerusalem Chamber, one of the oldest parts of the Abbey. In contrast to the cold and forbidding stone elsewhere in the Abbey, this room is panelled in oak and cedar. Just inside the entrance you see a small sign.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell Holmes about the sign", "response": "Holmes nods thoughtfully and says, \"Most interesting, old fellow.\"\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You leave the Chamber for the more intimate Jericho Parlour.\n\nThe exit to the Nave is to the north.\n\nYour friend enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the Jerusalem Chamber, one of the oldest parts of the Abbey. In contrast to the cold and forbidding stone elsewhere in the Abbey, this room is panelled in oak and cedar. Just inside the entrance you see a small sign.\n\nThe detective follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You leave the Chamber for the more intimate Jericho Parlour.\n\nThe exit to the Nave is to the north.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You enter the South Aisle of the Nave. In the gloom, you bump into one of the tombs. There is an exit to the southeast and a door set into the south wall.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYour friend trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tomb", "response": "It's a white marble sarcophagus with \"ISAACVS NEWTON Eques Auratus\" written on the front. Above it is a marble statue of Newton, and a carving of two cherubs who are holding a diagram of the solar system.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You walk into the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You walk into the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are standing in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is open.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nThe detective follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You walk through the massive door and find yourself once again in the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You enter the South Aisle of the Nave. In the gloom, you bump into one of the tombs. There is an exit to the southeast and a door set into the south wall.\n\nHolmes trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You enter the North Cloister, which is the brass-rubbing centre of the abbey. On the walls are completed rubbings that others have made. Someone has left a pacquet of paper and a rubbing crayon here.\n\nYour friend walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The crayon: Taken.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 16 out of\n100.]\nThe pacquet of paper: Taken.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 17 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pacquet", "response": "The pacquet of paper is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the pacquet", "response": "You open the pacquet of paper.\nInside you see a brown piece of paper, a yellow piece of paper, an orange piece of paper, a blue piece of paper, a white piece of paper and a green piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crayon", "response": "It looks just like any other Victorian-era crayon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You enter the South Aisle of the Nave. In the gloom, you bump into one of the tombs. There is an exit to the southeast and a door set into the south wall.\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the papers", "response": "[The brown piece of paper]\nYou take the brown piece of paper out of the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the brown piece of the paper on the tomb", "response": "You put the brown piece of paper on Alexander Pope's tomb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the brown piece", "response": "[the brown piece of paper]\n\nYou take the brown piece of paper off of Alexander Pope's tomb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tomb", "response": "It's a white marble sarcophagus with \"ISAACVS NEWTON Eques Auratus\" written on the front. Above it is a marble statue of Newton, and a carving of two cherubs who are holding a diagram of the solar system.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the brown piece of the paper on the tomb", "response": "You put the brown piece of paper on Newton's tomb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub the crayon", "response": "[What do you want to rub the crayon with?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub the brown piece of the paper with the crayon", "response": "After a few moments, the tomb's inscription comes through onto the piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the brown piece of the paper", "response": "The inscription reads, \"ISAACVS NEWTON Eques Auratus.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You walk into the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nHolmes joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nYour friend drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You walk into the hushed, secluded part of the Abbey known as Poets' Corner. The monuments here are dedicated to Britain's literary giants. The oldest of the tombs is that of Geoffrey Chaucer, who died in the year 1400.\n\nThe detective trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nYour companion walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You walk into the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nHolmes enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about the elizabeth", "response": "\"Never theorize in advance of the facts, Watson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to Jerusalem", "response": "[the Jerusalem Chamber]\n\n[You must be more specific.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the Jerusalem Chamber", "response": "[You must be more specific.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nYour friend follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The South Chapel Aisle is the final resting place of Mary, Queen of Scots.\n\nThe detective joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You enter the North Chapel Aisle. There is a very large tomb here.\n\nHolmes trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tomb", "response": "The tomb is that of Elizabeth and her half-sister, Mary Tudor. It is surrounded by twelve black marble pillars, and on the base is an inscription.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nYour friend walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You enter the North Chapel Aisle. There is a very large tomb here.\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is Innocents' corner, the traditional burial site of royalty who die in infancy. There are several tombs here.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the North Chapel Aisle. There is a very large tomb here.\n\nHolmes joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nYour friend drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You enter the North Chapel Aisle. There is a very large tomb here.\n\nThe detective trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is Innocents' corner, the traditional burial site of royalty who die in infancy. There are several tombs here.\n\nYour companion walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the North Chapel Aisle. There is a very large tomb here.\n\nHolmes enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk into the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nThe detective joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYou see a brown piece of paper on Newton's tomb.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You are now in the North Cloister, which is the brass-rubbing centre of the abbey. On the walls are completed rubbings that others have made.\n\nYour friend walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are now in the North Cloister, which is the brass-rubbing centre of the abbey. On the walls are completed rubbings that others have made.\n\nThe detective is pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rubbings", "response": "They are brass rubbings made from various inscriptions around the abbey.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You enter the South Aisle of the Nave. In the gloom, you bump into one of the tombs. There is an exit to the southeast and a door set into the south wall.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tomb", "response": "It's a simple tomb, with a brief inscription written on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the inscription", "response": "The inscription is written in Latin, but you can make out the name \"Alexander Pope.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "From the vastness of the Nave, you pass into the more intimate Jericho Parlour, which is the anteroom to the famous Jerusalem Chamber just to the west.\n\nThe exit to the Nave is to the north.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the Jerusalem Chamber, one of the oldest parts of the Abbey. In contrast to the cold and forbidding stone elsewhere in the Abbey, this room is panelled in oak and cedar. Just inside the entrance you see a small sign.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You leave the Chamber for the more intimate Jericho Parlour.\n\nThe exit to the Nave is to the north.\n\nThe detective drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the Jerusalem Chamber, one of the oldest parts of the Abbey. In contrast to the cold and forbidding stone elsewhere in the Abbey, this room is panelled in oak and cedar. Just inside the entrance you see a small sign.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the white piece of the paper", "response": "You take the white piece of paper out of the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You leave the Chamber for the more intimate Jericho Parlour.\n\nThe exit to the Nave is to the north.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You enter the South Aisle of the Nave. In the gloom, you bump into one of the tombs. There is an exit to the southeast and a door set into the south wall.\n\nYour friend enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "From the vastness of the Nave, you pass into the more intimate Jericho Parlour, which is the anteroom to the famous Jerusalem Chamber just to the west.\n\nThe exit to the Nave is to the north.\n\nThe detective follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You enter the South Aisle of the Nave. In the gloom, you bump into one of the tombs. There is an exit to the southeast and a door set into the south wall.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You enter the South Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the inscription", "response": "The inscription is written in Latin, but you can make out the name \"Charles Dickens.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You walk into the hushed, secluded part of the Abbey known as Poets' Corner. The monuments here are dedicated to Britain's literary giants. The oldest of the tombs is that of Geoffrey Chaucer, who died in the year 1400.\n\nYour friend trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The South Chapel Aisle is the final resting place of Mary, Queen of Scots.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tomb", "response": "It's an incredibly lavish tomb which is surmounted by gilt effigies of Henry VII and his wife Elizabeth of York.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "This is Innocents' corner, the traditional burial site of royalty who die in infancy. There are several tombs here.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tomb", "response": "According to the inscription, the urn contains the remains of the Little Princes in the Tower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nThe detective drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "This is Innocents' corner, the traditional burial site of royalty who die in infancy. There are several tombs here.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the North Chapel Aisle. There is a very large tomb here.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tomb", "response": "The tomb is that of Elizabeth and her half-sister, Mary Tudor. It is surrounded by twelve black marble pillars, and on the base is an inscription.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the orange piece of the paper", "response": "You take the orange piece of paper out of the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the orange piece of the paper on the tomb", "response": "You put the orange piece of paper on Elizabeth's tomb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub the orange piece of the paper with the crayon", "response": "After a few moments, the tomb's inscription comes through onto the piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the paper", "response": "[The orange piece of paper]\nYou pick at the paper for a few seconds, but it seems to be stuck to the inscription. After a few seconds you manage to peel it off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "[To what are you referring?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the crayon", "response": "You are already holding the crayon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the orange piece of paper", "response": "The inscription reads, \"REGNO CONSORTES & VRNA HIC OBDOR MIMVS ELIZABETHA ET MARIA SORORES IN SPE RESVRRECTIONIS.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nYour friend enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You enter the North Chapel Aisle. There is a very large tomb here.\n\nThe detective follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You return to the welcome warmth provided by the array of candles in the Evangelist Chapel.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the candle", "response": "After a moment's reflection you decide to leave undisturbed the offerings that others have left behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You enter the North Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You return to the welcome warmth provided by the array of candles in the Evangelist Chapel.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the North Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYou see a brown piece of paper on Newton's tomb.\n\nThe detective drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the paper", "response": "[The brown piece of paper]\n\nYou pick at the paper for a few seconds, but it seems to be stuck to the inscription. After a few seconds you manage to peel it off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the brown paper", "response": "The inscription reads, \"ISAACVS NEWTON Eques Auratus.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You enter the North Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You are standing in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is open.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You walk through the massive door and find yourself once again in the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You enter the South Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nHolmes joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You enter the South Aisle of the Nave. In the gloom, you bump into one of the tombs. There is an exit to the southeast and a door set into the south wall.\n\nYour friend drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You enter the South Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nThe detective trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYour companion walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You enter the South Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nHolmes enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You walk into the hushed, secluded part of the Abbey known as Poets' Corner. The monuments here are dedicated to Britain's literary giants. The oldest of the tombs is that of Geoffrey Chaucer, who died in the year 1400.\n\nYour friend follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nThe detective joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nHolmes trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nYour friend walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You walk into the Sanctuary. This is where the actual Coronation Ceremony takes place whenever a new monarch is crowned. A modest tomb is near the south wall.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nHolmes joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nYour friend drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The Confessor Chapel is dominated by the tomb of the founder of the Abbey, although there are several other tombs here. It is this chapel that first gave Westminster the name \"Burial place of kings.\"\n\nThe detective trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tomb", "response": "Which tomb do you mean, Henry V's tomb or Edward the Confessor's tomb?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the green piece of the paper", "response": "You take the green piece of paper out of the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the green paper on the henry's tomb", "response": "You put the green piece of paper on Henry V's tomb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub the green paper with the crayon", "response": "After a few moments, the tomb's inscription comes through onto the piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the green paper", "response": "You pick at the paper for a few seconds, but it seems to be stuck to the inscription. After a few seconds you manage to peel it off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the green paper", "response": "The inscription is written in Latin, but you can make out the name \"Henry V.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You enter Henry VII's chapel, which is one of the most beautiful chapels in the world. The ceiling is a masterpiece of delicate fan vaulting, and the Renaissance gilt-bronze tomb is obviously the work of one of the Italian masters.\n\nYour companion walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na white piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na crayon.\na matchbook.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na newspaper.\na violin.\na pipe.\na stethoscope.\nyour hat.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the white paper", "response": "The paper appears to be blank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the brown paper", "response": "The inscription reads, \"ISAACVS NEWTON Eques Auratus.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nHolmes enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You return to the welcome warmth provided by the array of candles in the Evangelist Chapel.\n\nYour friend follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You enter the North Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nThe detective joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are standing in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is open.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scotland yard", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nImpressive government buildings line the street on either side. The street continues north and south, and the entrance to Scotland Yard is to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You would have to get out of the hansom cab first.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You walk up the steps and into the building. Inside, it looks just like any other government building - drab and worn. The door to the street is to the west, and you see some steps leading down.\n\nYour friend trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Impressive government buildings line the street on either side. The street continues north and south, and the entrance to Scotland Yard is to the east.\n\nThe detective drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Baker street", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou drive into Baker Street.\n\nYou are in a cab outside Holmes's house. The street continues to the north and south. The door to the house is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the house and pause in the entry hall. The door to the parlour is to the north, and a flight of well-worn stairs leads up to the first floor.\n\nYour companion walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You climb the stairs and pause outside the door. You are on a landing at the top of the stairs.\n\nHolmes's study is to the north.\n\nHolmes enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You return to Holmes's study, which is in its usual disarray.\n\nThe bedroom door to the west is open. The only other exit is the door to the south.\n\nYou see a persian slipper. You see some mail on the mantelpiece.\n\nYour friend drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is a sparsely furnished room, whose walls are adorned only by scores of pictures of famous criminals. On a disorderly workbench in the corner, a jumble of laboratory equipment suggests that Holmes is in the middle of one of his chemical experiments. Set off to one side is a single ampoule with a neatly lettered label affixed to it. The room's only exit is to the east.\n\nNext to the bed there is a table, on which you see a lamp and Holmes's favorite magnifying glass.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The bedside table: Your companion looks at you in despair and says, \"That's impossible, Doctor.\"\nThe lamp: You are holding too much already.\nThe magnifying glass: You are holding too much already.\nThe ampoule of etherium: You are holding too much already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the violin", "response": "You drop the violin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the newspaper", "response": "You drop the newspaper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na white piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na crayon.\na matchbook.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na pipe.\na stethoscope.\nyour hat.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the hat", "response": "You put on your hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the papers in the pacquet", "response": "[The yellow piece of paper]\n\nYou are not holding the yellow piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "You open the black bag.\nInside you see a knife, a pistol, a brown bottle and a blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pacquet in the bag", "response": "You look at the pacquet of paper. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the pacquet of paper. Slowly it dawns on you that it's just not going to work.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pipe in the bag", "response": "You put the pipe in the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the matchbook in bag", "response": "You put the matchbook in the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the crayon in the bag", "response": "You put the crayon in the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the white paper in the pacquet", "response": "You put the white piece of paper in the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The newspaper: Taken.\nThe violin: Taken.\nThe bedside table: Holmes looks at you severely and says, \"You can't do that, Watson.\"\nThe lamp: Taken.\n\n[Your score just went up by 3 points. The total is now 20 out of\n100.]\nThe magnifying glass: Taken.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 21 out of\n100.]\nThe ampoule of etherium: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the newspaper", "response": "You drop the newspaper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the violin", "response": "You drop the violin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ampoule", "response": "The label on the ampoule reads, \"Etherium. Extremely volatile. Do not open in the presence of fire.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glass", "response": "It is of Swiss manufacture, with a precision-ground lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the glass", "response": "[You must specify what you want to do with the magnifying glass.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "It is a battered old brass lamp that has accompanied you on many adventures in the past.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "This is a sparsely furnished room, whose walls are adorned only by scores of pictures of famous criminals. On a disorderly workbench in the corner, a jumble of laboratory equipment suggests that Holmes is in the middle of one of his chemical experiments. The room's only exit is to the east.\n\nYou see a violin and a newspaper. You see some laboratory equipment on the workbench.\n\nYour friend is pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the equipment", "response": "The equipment is a jumble of test tubes, beakers, and pipettes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You return to Holmes's study, which is in its usual disarray.\n\nThe bedroom door to the west is open. The only other exit is the door to the south.\n\nYou see a persian slipper. You see some mail on the mantelpiece.\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You leave the study and pause outside the door. You are on a landing at the top of the stairs.\n\nHolmes's study is to the north.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You descend the stairs into the entry hall. The parlour door is to the north. The front door is open.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "You emerge from the house into Baker Street.\n\nYou are standing outside Holmes's house. The street continues to the north and south. The door to the house is to the west.\n\nYour friend walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You walk up the steps and into the building. Inside, it looks just like any other government building - drab and worn. The door to the street is to the west, and you see some steps leading down.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lamp", "response": "You turn up the wick. The lamp emits a warm glow that lights up the area around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "This is the Black Museum, where the Yard keeps relics and mementos of famous crimes.\n\nAlong one wall is a full-size rowboat with a small sign attached to it.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boat", "response": "The boat is a true-to-life replica of the rowboat that Captain Bligh sailed to Pitcairn Island after the mutiny on the Bounty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search rowboat", "response": "You see Captain Bligh's oar inside Captain Bligh's boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the oar", "response": "You take Captain Bligh's oar out of Captain Bligh's boat.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 22 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You return to the ground floor. It looks just like any other government building - drab and worn. The door to the street is to the west, and you see some steps leading down.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Impressive government buildings line the street on either side. The street continues north and south, and the entrance to Scotland Yard is to the east.\n\nYour friend trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tower of London", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou are in a cab outside the entrance to the Tower of London. Next to the entrance there is a sign.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n[Press any key to continue.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are standing outside the entrance to the Tower of London. Next to the entrance there is a sign.\n\nThe detective is looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sign", "response": "The plaque is firmly attached to the wall. You can't remove it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about Lestrade", "response": "\"Be kind to him, Watson. He has delusions of adequacy.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about Tower", "response": "\"The Tower is the safest stronghold in the nation. Our adversary must be formidable indeed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about the clue", "response": "[the clue paper]\n\n\"Most curious, don't you agree Watson? All thieves unintentionaly leave behind clues that are discernable to the trained eye. But it is highly irregular for a thief to taunt the authorities with an actual message. Especially one with references as obvious as this.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\nan ampoule of etherium.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na stethoscope.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\na pistol\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "British Museum", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nGreat Russell Street is the home of the British Museum, the entrance of which is to the north. There is a sign next to the door.\n\nTo the southwest you can see St Giles Circus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You walk up the grand staircase and into the entrance hall of the museum. All the corridors leading to the exhibit halls are packed with tourists, and there is a steady stream of people going in and out of the street entrance to the south. Only the corridor to the east seems to be of no interest to the sightseers.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The deserted corridor leads to the manuscript room, which contains a dusty collection of old books on obscure subjects. There is an old librarian here, on whose desk sits a handwritten sign that reads \"Quiet, please.\" There are thousands of books behind glass cases, but one is lying unattended on a table. The only exit is to the west.\n\nThe librarian - who is as dusty as the books - looks up in surprise as you come in. He says loudly, \"Oh, I say! Hello! I don't get many visitors here. Is there something I can help you with? Some information about the Jubilee, perhaps? It's quite rare, you know, for a British ruler to celebrate 50 years on the throne. Unique, in fact. The closest anyone else came was Elizabeth, who ruled 45 years - although our records are somewhat vague before the year 900. The Anglo-Saxon chronicles do get rather sketchy, what? Still, they're the best we have. I think I can find a copy for you somewhere here.\"\n\nThe librarian's voice trails off as he bustles from shelf to shelf, squinting at the books to find the one he thinks you want.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.\n\nHolmes takes you aside and whispers, \"Watson, you must keep the ampoule hidden.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you leave, the librarian calls out, \"Must you be going? I have so many other interesting things to tell you.\"\n\nYou walk back down the long corridor and return to the entrance hall of the museum. All the corridors leading to the exhibit halls are packed with tourists, and there is a steady stream of people going in and out of the street entrance to the south. Only the corridor to the east seems to be of no interest to the sightseers.\n\nYour friend trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ampoule in the bag", "response": "You put the ampoule of etherium in the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close bag", "response": "You close the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The deserted corridor leads to the manuscript room, which contains a dusty collection of old books on obscure subjects. There is an old librarian here, on whose desk sits a handwritten sign that reads \"Quiet, please.\" There are thousands of books behind glass cases. The only exit is to the west.\n\nYou see an old book on the table.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.\n\nThe lonely librarian says, \"Welcome back! I have more interesting things to tell you!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the old book", "response": "The librarian launches off into another speech, and it distracts you from what you wanted to do. \"Louis I, son of Charlemagne, ascended France's throne in 814 A.D. He was the first to implement that country's secret policy of naming all their kings Louis in order to confuse enemy agents, historians, and their own peasants.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about the librarian", "response": "The librarian interrupts you as you attempt to speak, and says, \"The first workers' strike on record took place in Egypt in 1170 B.C., when labourers building a new pyramid in Thebes learned that their payroll had been delayed. They organized a protest, stopped working, and picketed the construction site carrying papyrus signs that read, 'Cash on the line, or you don't get your shrine.' Tradition also has it that the slogan they chanted was 'Stuff the crypt...We've been gypped...Ra Ra Ra.'\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the librarian about the book", "response": "The librarian interrupts you as you attempt to speak, and says, \"The confusion between the usage of the present subjunctive and the past subjunctive is easily resolved as long as one remembers that the terms refer not to different times, but to differing sorts of uncertainty. Reference to time itself is only implied by the use of the past perfect subjunctive. While no deaths have as yet resulted from incorrect usage, it would be prudent not to take chances.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in the manuscript room, which contains a dusty collection of old books on obscure subjects. There is an old librarian here, on whose desk sits a handwritten sign that reads \"Quiet, please.\" There are thousands of books behind glass cases. The only exit is to the west.\n\nYou see an old book on the table.\n\nYour companion's eyes are half-closed, but they miss nothing.\n\nAs you look around, the librarian says loudly, \"While uncovering one's head is a symbol of respect in many cultures, in others the opposite is true. Some Indian religions, for example, require that a man's head remain covered at all times, giving rise to the use of the turban, or 'imamah.' The tabu against removing one's turban eventually became so strong that thieves who thought nothing of stealing a victim's clothes would nevertheless leave his turban undisturbed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sign to librarian", "response": "The librarian launches off into another speech, and it distracts you from what you wanted to do. \"Most historians ascribe Catherine de Medicis's poor reputation among the French to her ordering the wholesale massacre of French citizens in 1572. Recent research, however, has revealed that years before, in 1533, she brought into the country such vegetables as broccoli, artichokes, cabbage and haricot beans - and it is now widely accepted that this alone was sufficient to make the French hate her.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "As you leave, the librarian calls out, \"Must you be going? I have so many other interesting things to tell you.\"\n\nYou walk back down the long corridor and return to the entrance hall of the museum. All the corridors leading to the exhibit halls are packed with tourists, and there is a steady stream of people going in and out of the street entrance to the south. Only the corridor to the east seems to be of no interest to the sightseers.\n\nHolmes enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about the librarian", "response": "\"He's just a harmless old fellow who is starved for companionship. It's a wonder he hasn't retired and joined his twin brother who lives in New Zealand.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Surging crowds of tourists block your path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The deserted corridor leads to the manuscript room, which contains a dusty collection of old books on obscure subjects. There is an old librarian here, on whose desk sits a handwritten sign that reads \"Quiet, please.\" There are thousands of books behind glass cases. The only exit is to the west.\n\nYou see an old book on the table.\n\nYour friend follows you.\n\nThe lonely librarian says, \"Welcome back! I have more interesting things to tell you!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the orange paper to the librarian", "response": "The librarian launches off into another speech, and it distracts you from what you wanted to do. \"Are you sure I can't get you something on the Punic Wars?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "The librarian says loudly, \"Louis I, son of Charlemagne, ascended France's throne in 814 A.D. He was the first to implement that country's secret policy of naming all their kings Louis in order to confuse enemy agents, historians, and their own peasants.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na stethoscope.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the librarian for the book", "response": "The librarian interrupts you as you attempt to speak, and says, \"The confusion between the usage of the present subjunctive and the past subjunctive is easily resolved as long as one remembers that the terms refer not to different times, but to differing sorts of uncertainty. Reference to time itself is only implied by the use of the past perfect subjunctive. While no deaths have as yet resulted from incorrect usage, it would be prudent not to take chances.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the librarian about the sherlock holmes", "response": "The librarian interrupts you as you attempt to speak, and says, \"While uncovering one's head is a symbol of respect in many cultures, in others the opposite is true. Some Indian religions, for example, require that a man's head remain covered at all times, giving rise to the use of the turban, or 'imamah.' The tabu against removing one's turban eventually became so strong that thieves who thought nothing of stealing a victim's clothes would nevertheless leave his turban undisturbed.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "The librarian says loudly, \"Most historians ascribe Catherine de Medicis's poor reputation among the French to her ordering the wholesale massacre of French citizens in 1572. Recent research, however, has revealed that years before, in 1533, she brought into the country such vegetables as broccoli, artichokes, cabbage and haricot beans - and it is now widely accepted that this alone was sufficient to make the French hate her.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in the manuscript room, which contains a dusty collection of old books on obscure subjects. There is an old librarian here, on whose desk sits a handwritten sign that reads \"Quiet, please.\" There are thousands of books behind glass cases. The only exit is to the west.\n\nYou see an old book on the table.\n\nThe detective is looking around with interest.\n\nAs you look around, the librarian says loudly, \"Louis I, son of Charlemagne, ascended France's throne in 814 A.D. He was the first to implement that country's secret policy of naming all their kings Louis in order to confuse enemy agents, historians, and their own peasants.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit librarian with the oar", "response": "The librarian launches off into another speech, and it distracts you from what you wanted to do. \"The first workers' strike on record took place in Egypt in 1170 B.C., when labourers building a new pyramid in Thebes learned that their payroll had been delayed. They organized a protest, stopped working, and picketed the construction site carrying papyrus signs that read, 'Cash on the line, or you don't get your shrine.' Tradition also has it that the slogan they chanted was 'Stuff the crypt...We've been gypped...Ra Ra Ra.'\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Steal book", "response": "The librarian launches off into another speech, and it distracts you from what you wanted to do. \"The confusion between the usage of the present subjunctive and the past subjunctive is easily resolved as long as one remembers that the terms refer not to different times, but to differing sorts of uncertainty. Reference to time itself is only implied by the use of the past perfect subjunctive. While no deaths have as yet resulted from incorrect usage, it would be prudent not to take chances.\"\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you leave, the librarian calls out, \"Must you be going? I have so many other interesting things to tell you.\"\n\nYou walk back down the long corridor and return to the entrance hall of the museum. All the corridors leading to the exhibit halls are packed with tourists, and there is a steady stream of people going in and out of the street entrance to the south. Only the corridor to the east seems to be of no interest to the sightseers.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Surging crowds of tourists block your path.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The deserted corridor leads to the manuscript room, which contains a dusty collection of old books on obscure subjects. There is an old librarian here, on whose desk sits a handwritten sign that reads \"Quiet, please.\" There are thousands of books behind glass cases. The only exit is to the west.\n\nYou see an old book on the table.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.\n\nThe lonely librarian says, \"Welcome back! I have more interesting things to tell you!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes to get the book", "response": "The librarian interrupts you as you attempt to speak, and says, \"Most historians ascribe Catherine de Medicis's poor reputation among the French to her ordering the wholesale massacre of French citizens in 1572. Recent research, however, has revealed that years before, in 1533, she brought into the country such vegetables as broccoli, artichokes, cabbage and haricot beans - and it is now widely accepted that this alone was sufficient to make the French hate her.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you leave, the librarian calls out, \"Must you be going? I have so many other interesting things to tell you.\"\n\nYou walk back down the long corridor and return to the entrance hall of the museum. All the corridors leading to the exhibit halls are packed with tourists, and there is a steady stream of people going in and out of the street entrance to the south. Only the corridor to the east seems to be of no interest to the sightseers.\n\nYour friend trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "You open the black bag.\nInside you see an ampoule of etherium, a crayon, a matchbook, a pipe, a knife, a pistol, a brown bottle and a blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pistol", "response": "You take the pistol out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "As you leave, the librarian calls out, \"Must you be going? I have so many other interesting things to tell you.\"\n\nYou walk back down the long corridor and return to the entrance hall of the museum. All the corridors leading to the exhibit halls are packed with tourists, and there is a steady stream of people going in and out of the street entrance to the south. Only the corridor to the east seems to be of no interest to the sightseers.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The deserted corridor leads to the manuscript room, which contains a dusty collection of old books on obscure subjects. There is an old librarian here, on whose desk sits a handwritten sign that reads \"Quiet, please.\" There are thousands of books behind glass cases. The only exit is to the west.\n\nYou see an old book on the table.\n\nHolmes follows you.\n\nThe lonely librarian says, \"Welcome back! I have more interesting things to tell you!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shout", "response": "The librarian interrupts you as you attempt to speak, and says, \"Louis I, son of Charlemagne, ascended France's throne in 814 A.D. He was the first to implement that country's secret policy of naming all their kings Louis in order to confuse enemy agents, historians, and their own peasants.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the librarian to shut up", "response": "The librarian stops in midsentence and gets an embarrassed look on his face. \"Oh, I say. I'm sorry to have rambled on like this, but I do so enjoy speaking with visitors. I get them so seldom, you know. Thank you for listening.\"\n\nHe leaves the room, mumbling something to himself about the articulation of the third joint of the hind leg of an extinct species of dung beetle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the book", "response": "Which book do you mean, the old book or the matchbook?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the old book", "response": "You take the old book off of the table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the old book", "response": "The title is, \"Secret Writing and Invisible Inks.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the old book", "response": "The book falls open to the introduction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the introduction", "response": "[taking the book page out of the old book first].\nYour friend looks at you for a moment and says, \"You should know better, Doctor.\"\nA few underlined sentences catch your eye.\n\n\"Invisible writing has a long and honorable history. It is used primarily when it is felt that a code or cipher may be too easily broken.\"\n\n\"Most invisible inks are somewhat sticky to the touch, and virtually all of them become visible when exposed to moderate heat.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light pipe", "response": "[What do you want to light the pipe with?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You walk back down the long corridor and return to the entrance hall of the museum. All the corridors leading to the exhibit halls are packed with tourists, and there is a steady stream of people going in and out of the street entrance to the south. Only the corridor to the east seems to be of no interest to the sightseers.\n\nThe detective joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Great Russell Street is the home of the British Museum, the entrance of which is to the north. There is a sign next to the door.\n\nTo the southwest you can see St Giles Circus.\n\nYour companion follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Abbey", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou are in a cab in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is open.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You enter Victoria Street, which runs east and west between Victoria Square and Broad Sanctuary.\n\nYou see a sign outside one of the shops.\n\nHolmes joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are standing in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is open.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nYour friend follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You walk through the massive door and find yourself once again in the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nThe detective drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You return to the welcome warmth provided by the array of candles in the Evangelist Chapel.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Warm brown paper with candle", "response": "The paper is heated by the bank of candles. Something seems to be gradually appearing on the back of the brown piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the brown paper", "response": "The inscription reads, \"ISAACVS NEWTON Eques Auratus.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read back of the brown piece of the paper", "response": "You turn the brown piece of paper over.\n\nLondon Bridge is falling down.\nAll that's under it will drown.\nWith it falls Victoria's reign.\nBritannia ne'er to rule again.\n\n\n\nWhen a number you require,\nAnd you're banking all thereon.\nSubtract the conquest from the fire,\nHalf a league, half a league.\nHalf a league on.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 27 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Warm orange piece of paper with candle", "response": "The paper is heated by the bank of candles. Something seems to be gradually appearing on the back of the orange piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read back of the orange piece of the paper", "response": "You turn the orange piece of paper over.\n\nHickory Dickory Dock.\nYour enemy is the clock.\nWhen it strikes nine,\nThe victory's mine.\nHickory Dickory Dock.\n\n\n\nHere comes a candle to light you to bed.\nHere comes a chopper\nto chop off your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\nan old book.\na pistol.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na stethoscope.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Warm green piece of paper with candle", "response": "The paper is heated by the bank of candles. Something seems to be gradually appearing on the back of the green piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read back of the green piece of the paper", "response": "You turn the green piece of paper over.\n\nTwinkle, twinkle, son of Mars,\nFought at sea, midst masts and spars.\nNow above the world so high,\nLooking down with watchful eye.\nTwinkle, twinkle, son of Mars,\nEngland's hero, prince of tars.\n\nto look at the Queen.\nPussycat, pussycat,\nwhat did you there?\nI left something for you.\nGo back, if you dare.\n\nHolmes leans forward with an excited expression upon his hawk-like features and says, \"There is only one man in all London clever enough to plan this, Watson - Professor Moriarty. See how boldly he hides clues in public places, knowing all the while that they will remain hidden from the casual eye. Onward, Doctor. Let us solve these riddles and see what the good Professor has in mind for us.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "%", "response": "Sherlock: The Riddle of the Crown Jewels\nCopyright 1987 Infocom, Inc.\n\n221-B Baker Street\n\nYou are standing in the spill of a gas streetlight outside Holmes's house. The street disappears into the fog to the north and south. The door to the house is to the west.\n\nYou have come in response to an urgent summons from your old landlady, Mrs Hudson. As the fog swirls around you, you huddle into your coat and shiver in the predawn chill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is a narrow corridor lined with tombs.\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You are standing in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is open.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nYour friend drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "In the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\n\n\nYou enter Victoria Street, which runs east and west between Victoria Square and Broad Sanctuary.\n\nYou see a sign outside one of the shops.\n\nThe detective walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bank", "response": "\"Sorry, guv. Could you be a little more specific?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bank of England", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou enter Threadneedle Street and are now in front of the Bank of England. The entrance to the bank is to the north, Cheapside leads off to the west, and King William Street continues to the southeast. On the wall is a small sign.\n\nA bank guard is lounging up against the wall, idly jangling some keys in his pocket while he watches a group of urchins playing in the street.\n\nOne of the urchins looks strangely familiar to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the urchin", "response": "After staring at his dirty face for a few moments, you suddenly recognize the boy. He is Wiggins, the head of the Baker Street Irregulars, which is Holmes's unofficial army of street urchins who \"go everywhere and do everything.\"\nWiggins is shifting his weight from one foot to the other.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Wiggins about Holmes", "response": "\"E's a good man, guv'nor. Best as ever was.\"\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Wiggins about the guard", "response": "\"Beats me. What do you think?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Wiggins to steal the keys", "response": "Wiggins says with wounded pride, \"Sorry, guv. Me and Mr 'Olmes has a deal. One shilling's me price. Nothing more. Nothing less.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the note to Wiggins", "response": "Wiggins glances at your offer and says with wounded pride, \"Sorry, guv. Me and Mr 'Olmes has a deal. One shilling's me price. Nothing more. Nothing less.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the guard", "response": "The guard is lounging against the wall, idly jangling some keys in his pocket and waiting for girls to walk by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clock tower", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nThis is an attractive square at the foot of Whitehall. Large crowds mill around the entrance to the Houses of Parliament to the southeast. To the west is Birdcage Walk. Broad Sanctuary goes off to the southwest, and Whitehall is to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Impressive government buildings line the street on either side. The street continues north and south, and the entrance to Scotland Yard is to the east.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This is an attractive square at the foot of Whitehall. Large crowds mill around the entrance to the Houses of Parliament to the southeast. To the west is Birdcage Walk. Broad Sanctuary goes off to the southwest, and Whitehall is to the north.\n\nHolmes follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You push your way into the jam-packed entrance hall of the House of Commons.\n\nThere are hundreds of people lined up to get in. But off to one side you see a flight of old stone steps leading up into the darkness.\n\nYour friend drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The stairs seem to wind up forever. Finally, you emerge into the interior of the clock tower, high above the Houses of Parliament.\n\nThe immense bell known as Big Ben is hanging from the ceiling, suspended over a hollow shaft that is so deep it might as well be bottomless. A wooden railing runs around the shaft for safety.\n\nInside the bell, you see an enormous clapper, to which is glued a beautiful, deep-blue sapphire.\n\nThe detective trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sapphire", "response": "The sapphire is hanging from the end of the clapper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sapphire", "response": "The sapphire is not within reach.\n\nThe bell swings towards you, ringing unbearably loud. BONG! You and Holmes clap your hands to your ears in an attempt to protect them, dropping everything you are carrying in the process.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in the interior of the clock tower, high above the Houses of Parliament.\n\nThe immense bell known as Big Ben is hanging from the ceiling, suspended over a hollow shaft that is so deep it might as well be bottomless. A wooden railing runs around the shaft for safety.\n\nInside the bell, you see an enormous clapper, to which is glued a beautiful, deep-blue sapphire.\n\nYou see a black bag, a stethoscope, a clue paper, a pound note, a pacquet of paper, an orange piece of paper, a brown piece of paper, a green piece of paper, a lamp, a magnifying glass, Captain Bligh's oar, a pistol and an old book.\n\nYour companion's lean, severe face gives away none of his thoughts.\n\nThe bell swings away from you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stethoscope", "response": "You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\n\nThe bell swings towards you, ringing unbearably loud. BONG!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The black bag: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe ampoule of etherium: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe crayon: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe matchbook: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe pipe: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe tobacco: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe knife: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe brown bottle: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe blue bottle: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe stethoscope: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe clue paper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe pound note: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe pacquet of paper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe white piece of paper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe yellow piece of paper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe blue piece of paper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe orange piece of paper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe brown piece of paper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe green piece of paper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe lamp: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe magnifying glass: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nCaptain Bligh's oar: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe pistol: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe old book: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe clapper: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\nThe sapphire: You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\n\nThe bell swings away from you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bell", "response": "You cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\n\nThe bell swings away from you, finishing the ringing of the hour.\nYou breath a sigh of relief as you take your hands away from your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The black bag: Taken.\nThe stethoscope: Taken.\nThe clue paper: Taken.\nThe pound note: Taken.\nThe pacquet of paper: Taken.\nThe orange piece of paper: Taken.\nThe brown piece of paper: Taken.\nThe green piece of paper: Taken.\nThe lamp: Taken.\nThe magnifying glass: Taken.\nCaptain Bligh's oar: Taken.\nThe pistol: Taken.\nThe old book: Taken.\nThe clapper: Holmes looks at you grimly and says, \"Impossible.\"\nThe sapphire: The sapphire is not within reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the stethoscopoe", "response": "You put the stethoscope in your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bag", "response": "It is already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at bag", "response": "It's the black medical bag your aunt gave you when you graduated from medical school.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the bag", "response": "In the black bag you see an ampoule of etherium, a crayon, a matchbook, a pipe, a knife, a brown bottle and a blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "From afar you hear the sounds of the city going about its business.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stethoscope in the ears", "response": "The stethoscope is already in your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou have in your ears:\na stethoscope.\nYou are holding:\nan old book.\na pistol.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the hat", "response": "You are already wearing your hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in the interior of the clock tower, high above the Houses of Parliament.\n\nThe immense bell known as Big Ben is hanging from the ceiling, suspended over a hollow shaft that is so deep it might as well be bottomless. A wooden railing runs around the shaft for safety.\n\nInside the bell, you see an enormous clapper, to which is glued a beautiful, deep-blue sapphire.\n\nYour friend is here, awaiting your next move.\n\nThe bell swings towards you, ringing unbearably loud. BONG! You and Holmes clap your hands to your ears in an attempt to protect them, dropping everything you are carrying in the process.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the paper in the ears", "response": "[The white piece of paper]\n\nYou cannot do that because your hands are covering your ears.\n\nThe bell swings away from you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe bell swings towards you, ringing unbearably loud. BONG!\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "The bell swings away from you.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You descend the stairs into the jam-packed entrance hall of the House of Commons.\n\nThere are hundreds of people lined up to get in. But off to one side you see a flight of old stone steps leading up into the darkness.\n\nThe detective walks into the room alongside you.\n\nHolmes says, \"Watson, take that ridiculous thing out of your ears.\" You breath a sigh of relief as you take your hands away from your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou have in your ears:\na stethoscope.\nYou are holding:\nnothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The stairs seem to wind up forever. Finally, you emerge into the interior of the clock tower, high above the Houses of Parliament.\n\nThe immense bell known as Big Ben is hanging from the ceiling, suspended over a hollow shaft that is so deep it might as well be bottomless. A wooden railing runs around the shaft for safety.\n\nInside the bell, you see an enormous clapper, to which is glued a beautiful, deep-blue sapphire.\n\nYou see a black bag, a clue paper, a pound note, a pacquet of paper, an orange piece of paper, a brown piece of paper, a green piece of paper, a lamp, a magnifying glass, Captain Bligh's oar, a pistol and an old book.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.\n\nHolmes says, \"Watson, take that ridiculous thing out of your ears.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The black bag: Taken.\nThe clue paper: Taken.\nThe pound note: Taken.\nThe pacquet of paper: Taken.\nThe orange piece of paper: Taken.\nThe brown piece of paper: Taken.\nThe green piece of paper: Taken.\nThe lamp: Taken.\nThe magnifying glass: Taken.\nCaptain Bligh's oar: Taken.\nThe pistol: Taken.\nThe old book: Taken.\nThe clapper: Holmes looks at you sharply and says, \"Don't be ridiculous, Watson.\"\nThe sapphire: The sapphire is not within reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the stethoscope", "response": "You take the stethoscope out of your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\nan old book.\na pistol.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na black bag.\na stethoscope.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the blue paper", "response": "You take the blue piece of paper out of the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glass", "response": "It is of Swiss manufacture, with a precision-ground lens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You descend the stairs into the jam-packed entrance hall of the House of Commons.\n\nThere are hundreds of people lined up to get in. But off to one side you see a flight of old stone steps leading up into the darkness.\n\nYour friend follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!\nHolmes holds his hands to his ears and glares at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na blue piece of paper.\nan old book.\na pistol.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na black bag.\na stethoscope.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "This is an attractive square at the foot of Whitehall. Large crowds mill around the entrance to the Houses of Parliament to the southeast. To the west is Birdcage Walk. Broad Sanctuary goes off to the southwest, and Whitehall is to the north.\n\nThe detective joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kensington", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nA tide of perambulators pushed by well-starched nannies surges along the crowded walk. Everywhere you look there are rows and rows of beautiful flowers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowers", "response": "You see daisies, petunias, roses, peonies, marigolds, and a host of golden daffodils.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sherman's shop", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nThe cab stops in Pinchin Lane, a dingy little alley that runs north to Cheapside.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to what looks like a pet shop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You would have to get out of the hansom cab first.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You enter the cramped quarters of Sherman's shop. The old animal-trainer's eyes brighten up when he sees you.\n\n\"You've probably come looking for Toby,\" he says. \"But I'm afraid I won't be able to help you this time. Toby's not feeling too well, and all my other animals are already out on loan. All I have left is a half-trained pigeon.\"\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pigeon", "response": "Sherman is holding the pigeon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sherman about the pigeon", "response": "\"He's a wonderful bird. All you have to do is show him something and tell him to get it, and away he goes. The only catch is, he only seems to like things that are red.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You emerge from Sherman's shop into Pinchin Lane, a dingy little alley that runs north to Cheapside.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to Sherman's shop.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Madame tussaud'S", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou find yourself in a cab in front of Madame Tussaud's famous wax museum. From here the street continues east and west.\n\nThe museum is closed for renovations, and there is a guard and a dog patrolling the street outside the entrance, which is just to the north of you. The guard lights a cigarette, tips his hat, and says, \"Good day, Mr Holmes.\"\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n[Press any key to continue.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the guard", "response": "The guard has his collar turned up against the cold. He is pacing back and forth, puffing on a cigarette, and stamping his feet, all in a futile effort to keep warm.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the coat to guard", "response": "[taking off your coat first]\nThe guard shows little interest in your offer.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\nyour coat.\na blue piece of paper.\nan old book.\na pistol.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na black bag.\na stethoscope.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask guard to leave", "response": "The guard says, \"Sorry, sir. On duty, you know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The dog barks loudly and the guard says, \"Seeing as how it's you, Mr Holmes, I don't mind letting you in. But as you know we are very afraid of fire here, so we have trained this dog to detect matches or open flames. I'm afraid I can't allow you or your companion to enter until the match has been discarded.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the bag", "response": "You drop the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "The dog barks loudly and the guard says, \"Seeing as how it's you, Mr Holmes, I don't mind letting you in. But as you know we are very afraid of fire here, so we have trained this dog to detect matches or open flames. I'm afraid I can't allow you or your companion to enter until the lamp has been discarded.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the lamp", "response": "You drop the lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You come in off the street and are now standing in the lobby.\n\nAll around you are wax statues of famous people. To the west is a dark and ominous-looking doorway with a sign over it. The exit to the street is to the south.\n\nHolmes drops to his hands and knees and begins a minute examination of the floor. After a few moments he cries, \"Aha! Look here, Watson.\" He points to a miniscule speck of ash on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Holmes", "response": "Your friend's brow is furrowed in intense concentration.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ash", "response": "It is dark, almost black, in colour, and quite flakey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about the ash", "response": "\"Note the characteristic texture, Watson. It is the ash of a Trichinopoly cigar, which is made from the dark tobacco that grows only in the Madras district of India.\n\nUnless I miss my guess, Watson, our mastermind friend has joined forces with an Indian accomplice who does his dirty work for him.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ash with the glass", "response": "You train the magnifying glass on the cigar ash.\nIt appears much larger now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the statues", "response": "The statues are of King John, Sir Francis Drake, Sir Walter Raleigh, and William the Conqueror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Drake", "response": "The statue is of Sir Francis Drake finishing his game of bowls before sailing off to defeat the Spanish Armada.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine William", "response": "The statue is of William the Conqueror kneeling on the sand at Pevensey, where he landed before the Battle of Hastings in 1066.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You go out the door and are now standing in front of Madame Tussaud's famous wax museum. From here the street continues east and west.\n\nThe museum is closed for renovations, and there is a guard and a dog patrolling the street outside the entrance, which is just to the north of you. The guard puffs on a cigarette, tips his hat, and says, \"Goodbye, Mr Holmes.\"\n\nYou see a lamp and a black bag.\n\nThe detective drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bag", "response": "You take the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the matches", "response": "You take the matchbook out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light pipe", "response": "[What do you want to light the pipe with?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light pipe with matches", "response": "You would have to be holding the pipe to light it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pipe", "response": "You are holding too much already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the paper", "response": "Which paper do you mean, the blue piece of paper, the green piece of paper, the brown piece of paper, the orange piece of paper, the pacquet of paper, or the clue paper?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the brown paper", "response": "You drop the brown piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the orange paper in the pacquet", "response": "You put the orange piece of paper in the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the green paper in pacquet", "response": "You put the green piece of paper in the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pipe", "response": "You take the pipe out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light matches", "response": "[What do you want to light the matches with?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the matchbook", "response": "You open the matchbook.\nInside you see a match.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the match", "response": "You take the match out of the matchbook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the match", "response": "[You must specify what you want to do with the match.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light match", "response": "The match flares to life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light pipe with match", "response": "After a few puffs, the pipe fires right up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the match", "response": "You drop the match.\n\nThe match flickers and dies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You come in off the street and are now standing in the lobby.\n\nAll around you are wax statues of famous people. To the west is a dark and ominous-looking doorway with a sign over it. The exit to the street is to the south.\n\nYou see some cigar ash.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 28 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the Chamber of Horrors. Scattered around the room are wax groupings of some of the most gruesome scenes from English history. The only exit is to the east.\n\nHolmes trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine scenes", "response": "The statues are of Guy Fawkes, Charles I, and Saint Thomas Becket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Fawkes", "response": "The statue depicts Guy Fawkes crouched behind some barrels of gunpowder. He is awaiting the signal to light his torch and set off the trail of gunpowder that will blow up Parliament. The torch he holds looks like a real one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get torch", "response": "You take the torch off of the statue of Guy Fawkes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light torch", "response": "[with the tobacco]\nThe tobacco does not put out enough heat to light the torch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Charles", "response": "Charles I is shown kneeling, with his head resting on a chopping block. Above him stands a masked executioner, with his axe held high over his head, ready to strike the deathblow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the axe", "response": "You take the axe off of the statue of Charles I.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the swords", "response": "Your friend looks at you in despair and says, \"I thought you had more sense than that, Watson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the clue paper", "response": "Mortality, behold and fear!\nWhat a change of flesh is here!\nThink how many royal bones\nSleep within this heap of stones:\nHere they lie, had realms and lands,\nWho now want strength\nto stir their hands.\n\n\n\nFor two-score years I reigned alone,\nA virgin queen on England's throne.\nMy navy caused Armada's shame,\nAnd with me died the Tudor name.\n\n\n\nThe apple sorely tempted Eve,\nAnd Tell another aimed to cleave.\nBut when one fell, it showed to me,\nThe mighty pull of gravity.\n\n\n\nMy father, it was said, would die,\nBeneath the Holy City's sky.\nJerusalem his body claimed,\nAnd it is after him I'm named.\n\n\n\n\n\nO stately Holmes of England,\nIn Baker Street abide.\nFor even you must surely fail,\nTo save your country's pride.\n\nThe pipe has gone out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "It is too dark to see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You leave the Chamber of Horrors and go back into the lobby.\n\nAll around you are wax statues of famous people. To the west is a dark and ominous-looking doorway with a sign over it. The exit to the street is to the south.\n\nYou see some cigar ash.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.\n\nThe pipe has gone out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The guard says, \"I'm sorry, but the torch and the axe are not to be removed.\" He takes them and returns them to the proper place.\n\nYou go out the door and are now standing in front of Madame Tussaud's famous wax museum. From here the street continues east and west.\n\nThe museum is closed for renovations, and there is a guard and a dog patrolling the street outside the entrance, which is just to the north of you. The guard puts out a cigarette, tips his hat, and says, \"Goodbye, Mr Holmes.\"\n\nYou see a burnt match, a brown piece of paper and a lamp.\n\nYour friend walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The burnt match: Taken.\nThe brown piece of paper: Taken.\nThe lamp: You are holding too much already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the match", "response": "You drop the burnt match.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lamp", "response": "You take the lamp.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!\n\nA hansom cab pulls up beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Diogenes Club", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nPigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are in a cab in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are people feeding pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine column", "response": "The column has a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the statue", "response": "The statue of Admiral Lord Nelson is perched high above you, on top of the column.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the hushed atmosphere of the Diogenes Club. The furnishings are aging and opulent. The members are aging and asleep. The only exit is to the east.\n\nAn ancient butler totters forward to greet you and says in a barely audible whisper, \"May I be of some assistance?\"\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the butler about Mycroft", "response": "\"I am very sorry but Mr Mycroft Holmes is not available at this time. Perhaps you would care to come back later?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Pigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are standing in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are people feeding pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "London bridge", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou drive up onto London Bridge. The view of the river from here is spectacular, and hoards of sightseers are here with you to share the view.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Bridge", "response": "On London Bridge can be seen nothing.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the river", "response": "The water is black, oily, slimy, dirty, and otherwise unwholesome-looking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You enter Lower Thames Street. Roads lead off in many directions, some more savory than others. There is a set of particularly slovenly stairs leading down to an alley that runs alongside the river.\n\nHolmes follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "With increasing apprehension, you descend into Swan Lane, which runs along the waterfront of the Thames.\n\nIt is a seedy, disreputable, run-down part of town that normally you wouldn't be caught dead in. After a moment's reflection, you wish you hadn't thought of it in quite those terms.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to one of the least savory buildings you have ever seen. There is a faded sign above the door that informs you that the establishment was, in better days, known as the Bar of Gold.\n\nFortunately, it is only a short walk back up the stairs to Lower Thames Street.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "After fighting the urge to turn and run, you enter and find yourself in the Bar of Gold, the most infamous opium den in London. The proprietor is a most unsavory character who gives you a sidelong glance as you enter and then ignores you.\n\nThe detective follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the opium", "response": "The proprietor eyes you for a moment and says, \"A gent the likes of you doesn't buy what I 'ave to sell, mate. What is it you really want?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "With considerable relief, you emerge into Swan Lane, which runs along the waterfront of the Thames.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to one of the least savory buildings you have ever seen. There is a faded sign above the door that informs you that the establishment was, in better days, known as the Bar of Gold.\n\nFortunately, it is only a short walk back up the stairs to Lower Thames Street.\n\nHolmes follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You enter Lower Thames Street. Roads lead off in many directions, some more savory than others. There is a set of particularly slovenly stairs leading down to an alley that runs alongside the river.\n\nYour friend drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Upper Thames Street runs east and west between the Embankment and Lower Thames Street.\n\nThe detective walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "In the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\n\n\nYou arrive at the Victoria Embankment, on the left bank of the Thames. The river is crowded with pleasure boats here for the Jubilee.\n\nThere is an incredibly old rowboat here. It's got one empty oarlock, and it probably leaks, but it looks as if it might float.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the oar in the oarlock", "response": "You put Captain Bligh's oar in the oarlock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the rowboat", "response": "You and Holmes get into the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You launch boat", "response": "The anchor is restraining the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the anchor", "response": "You raise the anchor and drop it into the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You launch boat", "response": "The boat slips away from the Embankment. You are now in the middle of the Thames.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "[To move the boat, ROW or PADDLE in a given direction, or LAND it.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Row west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you row upstream.\n\nAs you proceed you find yourself among the flotilla of warships that have come for the celebration of the Jubilee. You quickly decide that it's too dangerous here so you turn back and head downstream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Row east", "response": "You row down the river. Downstream you see the London Bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Row east", "response": "You row down the river. You pass under the London Bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Bridge", "response": "You see nothing of interest, other than a clump of moss lodged among the supports overhead.\n\nThe boat drifts down the river. To the north you see the Traitors Gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Row west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you row upstream. You pass under the London Bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the moss", "response": "The clump of moss is a slightly different colour than the other lichen that surrounds it.\n\nThe boat drifts down the river. To the north you see the Traitors Gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the moss", "response": "You cannot quite reach it.\n\nThe boat drifts down the river. To the north you see the Traitors Gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the anchor", "response": "You lower the anchor into the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in a boat underneath London Bridge.\n\nHolmes looks a little green from the motion of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at moss", "response": "The clump of moss is a slightly different colour than the other lichen that surrounds it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nDaylight begins to fade. Soon it will be dark.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Darkness falls and the mists come in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in a boat underneath London Bridge.\n\nYour friend looks a little green from the motion of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in a boat underneath London Bridge.\n\nThe detective looks a little green from the motion of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in a boat underneath London Bridge.\n\nYour companion looks a little green from the motion of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in a boat underneath London Bridge.\n\nHolmes looks a little green from the motion of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the moss", "response": "As soon as you touch the clump of moss, it crumbles. You are left holding a beautiful opal.\n\nHolmes claps you on the shoulder and says, \"Capital, Watson. Capital!\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 33 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about the opal", "response": "Holmes says, \"It's obviously not one of the Crown Jewels, Watson. In fact, this gem belongs to the Agra treasure, which was stolen in India many years ago and has never been recovered.\"\n\n\"The case grows more complex, Watson. We are in more danger than I had at first suspected.\" He removes a ring from one of his long, slender fingers and hands it to you. \"Here, Watson. Take this signet ring of mine. If anything should happen to me, take it to my brother Mycroft at the Diogenes Club. He'll tell you what to do.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 34 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe boat drifts down the river. To the north you see the Traitors Gate.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the anchor", "response": "You lower the anchor into the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "[Land the Boat.]\nYou can't land the boat. The anchor seems to be doing its job.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Land boat", "response": "You land the boat outside Traitors Gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You would have to get out of the boat first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get out", "response": "As you and Holmes get out of the boat it slides out from under your foot and drifts down the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get out", "response": "You and Holmes get out of the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Oomph. The portcullis is too heavy to lift.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "You and Holmes get into the boat.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You launch boat", "response": "The boat slips out into the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe boat drifts down the river. Downstream you see the open seas... the strong currents would surely leave you stranded in your small boat if you were to drift further.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Row west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you row upstream. Upstream, you see the London Bridge, to the north you see the Traitors Gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Row west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you row upstream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Row west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you row upstream. To the north you see the Embankment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Land boat", "response": "You land the boat on the embankment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the anchor", "response": "You lower the anchor into the water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "As you and Holmes get out of the boat, a man storms up to you and says, \"What in bloody 'ell are you doing with my boat?\" Without waiting for a reply he jumps into the boat and rows off, muttering to himself that he'll have to find a safer place to keep it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Fleet Street is the centre of London's thriving newspaper industry. The presses roar all night, turning out papers that will be delivered by train around the country the next day.\n\nA street leads off to the west, and there is a passage south to the Embankment.\n\nYour companion follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the paper", "response": "[The green piece of paper]\n\nYou already have a green piece of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sherman's shop", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nThe cab stops in Pinchin Lane, a dingy little alley that runs north to Cheapside.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to Sherman's shop. Despite the hour, you see a light shining inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Sherman's shop is dingy and cramped. Dozens of empty cages are stacked up against the walls.\n\nHolmes joins you and starts looking around with interest.\n\nSherman says, \"Welcome back. It's a pleasure to see you again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sherman for the pigeon", "response": "Sherman hands you the bird. \"Take good care of him, now. I've grown fond of him.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 35 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You emerge from Sherman's shop into Pinchin Lane, a dingy little alley that runs north to Cheapside.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to Sherman's shop.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Trafalgar square", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nPigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are in a cab in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.\n\nThe fog swirls around you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You release the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon flies up into the air and starts to circle high over your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe pigeon circles above you.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "The pigeon circles above you.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na ring.\nan opal.\na lamp (providing light).\na brown piece of paper.\na pipe.\na matchbook.\na black bag.\nyour coat.\na blue piece of paper.\nan old book.\na pistol.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na stethoscope.\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na green piece of paper\nan orange piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon ignores you, intent on its task.\n\nThe pigeon circles above you for the last time, and flies out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crayon", "response": "It looks just like any other Victorian-era crayon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine pigeon", "response": "The pigeon doesn't seem interested in anything.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is a ramshackle part of town, with dark alleys leading off the main street, which continues east and west. Pinchin Lane leads off to the south.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The quality of the neighborhood seems to be improving as you walk westward along New Oxford Street.\n\nHolmes drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You enter Covent Garden, which is the central market for all of London. Everywhere you look there are stalls packed with produce from the English countryside.\n\nDespite the hour, the open-air market is crowded with housewives who are shopping for fruits and vegetables.\n\nAfter looking around for a few moments, you see a crowd of women gathered around a girl who has collapsed on the ground. Her lifeless hand clutches a bunch of flowers.\n\nYour friend walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flowers", "response": "In the flowers you see a carnation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the carnation", "response": "The crowd is outraged that you would try to rob the ailing girl, and they beat you about the head and shoulders with their shopping bags.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine girl", "response": "The flower girl is lying on the ground in a dead faint. She is very beautiful, but her clothes indicate that she must be poor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na pigeon.\na ring.\nan opal.\na lamp (providing light).\na brown piece of paper.\na pipe.\na matchbook.\na black bag.\nyour coat.\na blue piece of paper.\nan old book.\na pistol.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na pound note.\na clue paper.\na stethoscope.\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na green piece of paper\nan orange piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the brown bottle", "response": "You are holding too much already.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the blue paper in the pacquet", "response": "You put the blue piece of paper in the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the brown bottle", "response": "You are holding too much already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the pacquet", "response": "You drop the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the book in bag", "response": "Which book do you mean, the matchbook or the old book?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the brown bottle", "response": "You take the brown bottle out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to girl", "response": "Her heartbeat is incredibly fast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the blue bottle", "response": "You take the blue bottle out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine blue bottle", "response": "The label on the bottle reads: \"Digitalis leaf. For tachycardia and other accelerated arrhythmias.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use the blue bottle on the girl", "response": "Using the blue bottle on the girl would be pointless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the blue bottle", "response": "You open the blue bottle.\nInside you see an orange pill and some cotton balls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cotton", "response": "[the cotton balls]\n\nThey're soft and fluffy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "The blue bottle: Dropped.\nThe brown bottle: Dropped.\nThe pigeon: The pigeon flies up into the air and starts to circle high over your head.\nThe opal: Dropped.\nThe lamp: Dropped.\nThe brown piece of paper: Dropped.\nThe pipe: Dropped.\nThe matchbook: Dropped.\nThe black bag: Dropped.\nYour coat: Dropped.\nThe old book: Dropped.\nThe pistol: Dropped.\nThe magnifying glass: Dropped.\nThe clue paper: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the blue bottle", "response": "You take the blue bottle.\n\nThe pigeon circles above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the coat", "response": "You drop your coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the orange pill", "response": "You take the orange pill out of the blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give pill to the girl", "response": "You give her the orange pill.\n\nNothing happens for a moment, but then her eyelids flutter briefly and she opens her eyes.\n\nThe crowd breaks into applause, and they help her to her feet. When she is standing, she smiles at you shyly and puts a lovely carnation in your lapel as a gesture of thanks.\n\nJust then, a distinguished-looking gentleman appears on the scene, takes her by the arm, and says, \"Come, Eliza. We mustn't be late for the ball.\"\n\nHe escorts her away, but as she leaves, she glances back at you once more with a grateful expression in her lovely eyes.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 40 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "Your coat: Taken.\nThe black bag: Taken.\nThe pacquet of paper: You are holding too much already.\nThe blue piece of paper: You are holding too much already.\nThe green piece of paper: You are holding too much already.\nThe orange piece of paper: You are holding too much already.\nThe white piece of paper: You are holding too much already.\nThe yellow piece of paper: You are holding too much already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the coat in the bag", "response": "You put your coat in the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put stethoscope in the bag", "response": "[taking off the stethoscope first]\nYou put the stethoscope in the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in the bag", "response": "The blue bottle: Done.\nThe brown bottle: Done.\nThe pigeon: The pigeon flies about in a panic for a few moments and then flies right back into your hands.\nThe opal: Done.\nThe lamp: You look at the lamp. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the lamp. Slowly it dawns on you that it's just not going to work.\nThe brown piece of paper: Done.\nThe pipe: Done.\nThe matchbook: Done.\nThe old book: Done.\nThe pistol: Done.\nThe magnifying glass: Done.\nThe clue paper: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na pigeon.\na black bag.\na ring.\na lamp (providing light).\nIn the black bag you see:\na clue paper\na magnifying glass\na pistol\nan old book\na matchbook\na pipe\na brown piece of paper\nan opal\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\na stethoscope\nyour coat\na pound note\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na knife\nIn the blue bottle you see:\nsome cotton balls\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "The pacquet of paper: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You enter the Strand, which is the heart of London's theatre district. Streets lead off to the north, east, and southwest.\n\nAs you walk through the fog, the empty streets seem haunted by the ghosts of actors from years gone by.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south-west", "response": "Pigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are standing in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.\n\nThe fog swirls around you.\n\nHolmes follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "The Mall runs southwest to northeast between the Queens Gardens and Trafalgar Square.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You are standing outside the gate to Buckingham Palace.\n\nA Palace guard is here.\n\nThe detective follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the guard", "response": "Looks like any other Palace guard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the opal", "response": "You would have to be holding the opal to get a really good look at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the opal", "response": "You take the opal out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the opal", "response": "It looks as if there is a scratch on the opal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the scratch", "response": "It looks like very tiny writing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the glass", "response": "You take the magnifying glass out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the opal with the glass", "response": "You see \"Password: Swordfish\" scratched into the surface of the opal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bar of Gold", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou enter Lower Thames Street. Roads lead off in many directions, some more savory than others. There is a set of particularly slovenly stairs leading down to an alley that runs alongside the river.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n[Press any key to continue.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "With increasing apprehension, you descend into Swan Lane, which runs along the waterfront of the Thames.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to one of the least savory buildings you have ever seen. There is a faded sign above the door that informs you that the establishment was, in better days, known as the Bar of Gold.\n\nFortunately, it is only a short walk back up the stairs to Lower Thames Street.\n\nYour companion drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "After fighting the urge to turn and run, you enter and find yourself in the Bar of Gold, the most infamous opium den in London. The proprietor is a most unsavory character who gives you a sidelong glance as you enter and then ignores you.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coat", "response": "You take your coat out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lapel", "response": "In your lapel you see a carnation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cotton", "response": "[the cotton balls]\n\nYou take the cotton balls out of the blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cotton in the ears", "response": "[the cotton balls]\n\nYou put the cotton balls in your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "With considerable relief, you emerge into Swan Lane, which runs along the waterfront of the Thames.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to one of the least savory buildings you have ever seen. There is a faded sign above the door that informs you that the establishment was, in better days, known as the Bar of Gold.\n\nFortunately, it is only a short walk back up the stairs to Lower Thames Street.\n\nYour friend walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You enter Lower Thames Street. Roads lead off in many directions, some more savory than others. There is a set of particularly slovenly stairs leading down to an alley that runs alongside the river.\n\nThe detective trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clock tower", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nThis is an attractive square at the foot of Whitehall. Through the mist you see the entrance to the Houses of Parliament to the southeast. To the west is Birdcage Walk. Broad Sanctuary goes off to the southwest, and Whitehall disappears into the gloom to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southeast", "response": "You enter the entrance hall of the House of Commons.\n\nThe Chamber is closed, but off to one side you see a flight of old stone steps leading up into the darkness.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The stairs seem to wind up forever. Finally, you emerge into the interior of the clock tower, high above the Houses of Parliament.\n\nThe immense bell known as Big Ben is hanging from the ceiling, suspended over a hollow shaft that is so deep it might as well be bottomless. A wooden railing runs around the shaft for safety.\n\nInside the bell, you see an enormous clapper, to which is glued a beautiful, deep-blue sapphire.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe bell swings towards you, ringing loudly, but the cotton protects your ears. Holmes claps his hands to his ears in an attempt to protect them. The clapper swings up within reach.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sapphire", "response": "You remove the sapphire from the clapper.\n\nHolmes beams at you and says, \"Good show, old fellow.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 45 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sapphire", "response": "It looks as if there is a scratch on the sapphire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at sapphire with the glass", "response": "You see \"2:00 a.m.\" scratched into the surface of the sapphire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You descend the stairs into the entrance hall of the House of Commons.\n\nThe Chamber is closed, but off to one side you see a flight of old stone steps leading up into the darkness.\n\nYour friend enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "This is an attractive square at the foot of Whitehall. Through the mist you see the entrance to the Houses of Parliament to the southeast. To the west is Birdcage Walk. Broad Sanctuary goes off to the southwest, and Whitehall disappears into the gloom to the north.\n\nThe detective follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you enter Birdcage Walk, your attention is diverted to a man who has set up a small souvenir stand near where the parade will pass on Tuesday. Oblivious to the fact that there are no crowds here to buy his wares, he is waving a handful of overpriced trinkets over his head.\n\nAs soon as he sees you, the salesman says, \"'Ere, Guv. Come early for the parade, 'ave you? There'll be thousands of people, you know. Now at the last Jubilee - about a year and a 'alf ago, as I remembers it - I could 'ardly see a fing. But if you was to buy one of my telescopes, you wouldn't 'ardly 'ave any problem, now would you? 'Ow 'bout it, Guv?\"\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the telescope", "response": "You give the pound note to the vendor. He looks suprised that you didn't try to haggle with him, says, \"Thank you, guv'nor. Enjoy it in good 'ealth,\" and hands you the telescope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Haggle", "response": "[Whom do you want to haggle with?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Haggle with vendor", "response": "\"Alright, guv. For you I'll come down to me special Jubilee price of Nineteen and six. 'Ow about it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Haggle with vendor", "response": "\"It'll break me poor wife's 'eart, me comin' 'ome wif so little. But times is 'ard. Nineteen shillings. Not a farthing less.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the telescope", "response": "You give the pound note to the vendor. He gives you a shilling for change, and hands you the telescope.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 46 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bank of England", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou enter Threadneedle Street and are now in front of the Bank of England. The entrance to the bank is to the north, Cheapside leads off to the west, and King William Street disappears off into the darkness to the southeast. On the wall is a small sign.\n\nA bank guard is lounging up against the wall, idly jangling some keys in his pocket while he watches a group of urchins playing in the street.\n\nWiggins is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give shilling to Wiggins", "response": "Wiggins looks at the shilling and then at you. After a few moments he stuffs it deep into the recesses of his clothing and says, \"I'm all yours. Wot's the plan?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You steal keys", "response": "Wiggins casually strolls past the guard and says, \"Cor blimey. That bird isn't 'alf built, is she?\" While the guard's attention is diverted, Wiggins's hand flashes in and out of his pocket. Then just as casually as before, he strolls back to you, slips something into your hand, and whispers, \"Sorry I couldn't get everything, guv. I 'ope this is enough.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 47 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the keys", "response": "You can't see them. They're in the guard's pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\na whistle.\nYou have in your ears:\nsome cotton balls.\nYou are holding:\na key.\na telescope.\na sapphire.\nyour coat.\na magnifying glass.\nan opal.\na pacquet of paper.\na pigeon.\na black bag.\na ring.\na lamp (providing light).\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na blue piece of paper\na green piece of paper\nan orange piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\na clue paper\na pistol\nan old book\na matchbook\na pipe\na brown piece of paper\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\na stethoscope\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na knife", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The guard stops you as you try to enter. \"Excuse me, sir. You can't go in there. And don't even THINK about trying to bribe me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bribe the guard", "response": "[What do you want to bribe the guard with?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bribe the guard with the ring", "response": "The guard examines what you are offering and then declines your bribe.\n\n\"If you expect me to let you in there, you'll have to offer me something a lot more valuable than that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You bribe the guard with the opal", "response": "\"Now this is very nice. But I think I would need more than just one to make letting you in worth my while. I'll hold this for you until you come back.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the sapphire to guard", "response": "\"This is even more beautiful than the other one. But it isn't worth taking the risk for only two of them.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\na whistle.\nYou have in your ears:\nsome cotton balls.\nYou are holding:\na key.\na telescope.\nyour coat.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na pigeon.\na black bag.\na ring.\na lamp (providing light).\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na blue piece of paper\na green piece of paper\nan orange piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\na clue paper\na pistol\nan old book\na matchbook\na pipe\na brown piece of paper\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\na stethoscope\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na knife", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the North Transept of the Abbey, which is dominated by a beautiful rose window set high into the wall.\n\nA shaft of sunlight comes through the stained-glass window, lighting up one of the tombs, and relieving the general gloom of the Abbey's dark interior.\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southwest", "response": "You return to the Nave. Amidst the massive columns, one tomb in particular catches your attention.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are standing in the midst of a crowd of tourists in front of the west door of Westminster Abbey. The towers of the Abbey soar high above you, and you marvel at this perfect example of Gothic architecture, as generations have done before you.\n\nThe Abbey door is open.\n\nOn the wall next to the door is a small, discreet sign.\n\nHolmes drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "This is an attractive square at the foot of Whitehall. Large crowds mill around the entrance to the Houses of Parliament to the southeast. To the west is Birdcage Walk. Broad Sanctuary goes off to the southwest, and Whitehall is to the north.\n\nYour friend walks alongside you.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "As you enter Birdcage Walk, your attention is diverted to a man who has set up a small souvenir stand near where the parade will pass on Tuesday. Hoping to attract the attention of the crowd, he is waving a handful of overpriced trinkets over his head.\n\nAs soon as he sees you, the salesman ignores everyone else and says, \"'Ere, Guv. Come early for the parade, 'ave you? There'll be thousands of people, you know. Now at the last Jubilee - about a year and a 'alf ago, as I remembers it - I could 'ardly see a fing. But if you was to buy one of my telescopes, you wouldn't 'ardly 'ave any problem, now would you? 'Ow 'bout it, Guv?\"\n\nThe detective trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You buy the telescope", "response": "You give the pound note to the vendor. He gives you a shilling for change, and hands you the telescope.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 28 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask for the pigeon", "response": "[spoken to Sherman]\nSherman hands you the bird. \"Take good care of him, now. I've grown fond of him.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 29 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You emerge from Sherman's shop into Pinchin Lane, a dingy little alley that runs north to Cheapside.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to Sherman's shop.\n\nHolmes follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This is a ramshackle part of town, with dark alleys leading off the main street, which continues east and west. Pinchin Lane leads off to the south.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The quality of the neighborhood seems to be improving as you walk westward along New Oxford Street.\n\nThe detective follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You enter Covent Garden, which is the central market for all of London. Everywhere you look there are stalls packed with produce from the English countryside.\n\nThe open-air market is crowded with housewives who are shopping for fruits and vegetables.\n\nAfter looking around for a few moments, you see a crowd of women gathered around a girl who has collapsed on the ground. Her lifeless hand clutches a bunch of flowers.\n\nYour companion drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all in the bag", "response": "The pigeon: The pigeon flies about in a panic for a few moments and then flies right back into your hands.\nThe telescope: Done.\nThe shilling: Done.\nThe old book: Done.\nThe pistol: Done.\nCaptain Bligh's oar: You look at Captain Bligh's oar. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the tiny bag. You look at Captain Bligh's oar. Slowly it dawns on you that it's just not going to work.\nThe magnifying glass: Done.\nThe lamp: You look at the lamp. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the lamp. Slowly it dawns on you that it's just not going to work.\nThe green piece of paper: Done.\nThe brown piece of paper: Done.\nThe orange piece of paper: Done.\nThe pacquet of paper: You look at the pacquet of paper. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the tiny bag. You look at the pacquet of paper. Slowly it dawns on you that it's just not going to work.\nThe clue paper: Done.\nThe stethoscope: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the blue bottle", "response": "You take the blue bottle out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the stethoscope", "response": "You take the stethoscope out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stethoscope in the ears", "response": "You put the stethoscope in your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the girl", "response": "Her heartbeat is incredibly slow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open brown bottle", "response": "You open the brown bottle.\nInside you see a yellow pill.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the yellow pill", "response": "You take the yellow pill out of the brown bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the yellow pill to the girl", "response": "You give her the yellow pill.\n\nNothing happens for a moment, but then her eyelids flutter briefly and she opens her eyes.\n\nThe crowd breaks into applause, and they help her to her feet. When she is standing, she smiles at you shyly and puts a lovely carnation in your lapel as a gesture of thanks.\n\nJust then, a distinguished-looking gentleman appears on the scene, takes her by the arm, and says, \"Come, Eliza. We mustn't be late for the ball.\"\n\nHe escorts her away, but as she leaves, she glances back at you once more with a grateful expression in her lovely eyes.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 34 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the stethoscope", "response": "You take the stethoscope out of your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the brown bottle", "response": "It is already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "In the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\n\n\nYou enter the Strand, which is the heart of London's theatre district.\n\nCrowds are gathering in front of the theatres, trying to select a show to see later in the day. Streets lead off to the north, east, and southwest.\n\nHolmes walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the southwest", "response": "Pigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are standing in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are people feeding pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.\n\nYour friend trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through the telescope", "response": "Everything appears much closer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Nelson", "response": "The statue of Admiral Lord Nelson is perched high above you, on top of the column.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Nelson through the telescope", "response": "You would have to be holding the telescope to do that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the telescope", "response": "You take the telescope out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Nelson through the telescope", "response": "You focus the telescope on the statue of Admiral Lord Nelson.\n\nYou can see a ruby in Nelson's blind eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the ruby to the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon looks interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Nelson through the telescope", "response": "You can see a ruby in Nelson's blind eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot the glass", "response": "Clever thinking. If only you had something to shoot with!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pistol", "response": "You take the pistol out of the black bag.\n\nThe pigeon seems to lose interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the eye through the telescope", "response": "You focus the telescope on Nelson's blind eye.\n\nYou can see a ruby in Nelson's blind eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ruby through the telescope", "response": "You focus the telescope on the ruby.\n\nIt appears much closer now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the ruby to the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon looks interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe pigeon circles above you.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon ignores you, intent on its task.\n\nThe pigeon circles above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Pigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are standing in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are people feeding pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.\n\nYour companion's lean, severe face gives away none of his thoughts.\n\nThe pigeon circles above you for the last time, and flies out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the carnation to the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon doesn't seem to be interested in the carnation.\n\nThe pigeon circles above you for the last time, and flies out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nYou have in your ears:\nsome cotton balls.\nYou are holding:\na pistol.\na telescope.\na brown bottle.\na stethoscope.\na blue bottle.\na pigeon.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na lamp (providing light).\na pacquet of paper.\na black bag.\nIn the blue bottle you see:\nan orange pill\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\na clue paper\nan orange piece of paper\na brown piece of paper\na green piece of paper\na magnifying glass\nan old book\na shilling\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the telescope", "response": "You are already holding the telescope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Nelson through the telescope", "response": "You can see a ruby in Nelson's blind eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot ruby", "response": "You shoot the ruby, which shatters and disappears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get ruby", "response": "The pigeon trembles with excitement.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You release the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon flies up into the air, gets the ruby, and starts to circle high over your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the carnation to the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon doesn't seem to be interested in the carnation.\n\nThe pigeon circles above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You call the pigeon", "response": "The pigeon ignores you, intent on its task.\n\nThe pigeon circles above you for the last time, and flies out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pinchin lane", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nThe cab stops in Pinchin Lane, a dingy little alley that runs north to Cheapside.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to Sherman's shop.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Sherman's shop is dingy and cramped. Dozens of empty cages are stacked up against the walls.\n\nYour friend drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.\n\nSherman says, \"Welcome back. It's a pleasure to see you again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sherman about pigeon", "response": "Sherman says, \"He came back with a ruby. I don't know where he found it.\" He gives you the ruby.\n\nHolmes looks at you approvingly and says, \"Bravo, Watson. Well done, old chap.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 39 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You emerge from Sherman's shop into Pinchin Lane, a dingy little alley that runs north to Cheapside.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to Sherman's shop.\n\nThe detective follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Madame tussaud'S", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou find yourself in a cab in front of Madame Tussaud's famous wax museum. From here the street continues east and west.\n\nThe museum is closed for renovations, and there is a guard and a dog patrolling the street outside the entrance, which is just to the north of you. The guard lights a cigarette, tips his hat, and says, \"Good day, Mr Holmes.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ruby", "response": "It looks as if there is a scratch on the ruby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scratch", "response": "It looks like very tiny writing.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the scratch", "response": "It is too tiny.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ruby with the glass", "response": "You would have to be holding the magnifying glass to do that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ruby with the glass", "response": "You see \"Wear a carnation\" scratched into the surface of the ruby.\n\nHolmes says, \"It's obviously not one of the Crown Jewels, Watson. In fact, this gem belongs to the Agra treasure, which was stolen in India many years ago and has never been recovered.\"\n\n\"The case grows more complex, Watson. We are in more danger than I had at first suspected.\" He removes a ring from one of his long, slender fingers and hands it to you. \"Here, Watson. Take this signet ring of mine. If anything should happen to me, take it to my brother Mycroft at the Diogenes Club. He'll tell you what to do.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 40 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "The matchbook: Dropped.\nThe magnifying glass: Dropped.\nThe ruby: Dropped.\nThe pistol: Dropped.\nThe telescope: Dropped.\nThe brown bottle: Dropped.\nThe stethoscope: Dropped.\nThe blue bottle: Dropped.\nCaptain Bligh's oar: Dropped.\nThe pacquet of paper: Dropped.\nThe black bag: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bag", "response": "You take the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pipe", "response": "You take the pipe out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the matchbook", "response": "You open the matchbook.\nInside you see a match.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light pipe", "response": "[with the match]\nAfter a few puffs, the pipe fires right up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You come in off the street and are now standing in the lobby.\n\nAll around you are wax statues of famous people. To the west is a dark and ominous-looking doorway with a sign over it. The exit to the street is to the south.\n\nHolmes drops to his hands and knees and begins a minute examination of the floor. After a few moments he cries, \"Aha! Look here, Watson.\" He points to a miniscule speck of ash on the floor.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 41 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the Sherlock about the ash", "response": "\"Note the characteristic texture, Watson. It is the ash of a Trichinopoly cigar, which is made from the dark tobacco that grows only in the Madras district of India.\n\nUnless I miss my guess, Watson, our mastermind friend has joined forces with an Indian accomplice who does his dirty work for him.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the Chamber of Horrors. Scattered around the room are wax groupings of some of the most gruesome scenes from English history. The only exit is to the east.\n\nYour companion trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine scenes", "response": "The statues are of Guy Fawkes, Charles I, and Saint Thomas Becket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Fawkes", "response": "The statue depicts Guy Fawkes crouched behind some barrels of gunpowder. He is awaiting the signal to light his torch and set off the trail of gunpowder that will blow up Parliament. The torch he holds looks like a real one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light gunpowder", "response": "[with the tobacco]\nYou would have to be holding that part of the statue to light it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gunpowder", "response": "Holmes looks at you grimly and says, \"Impossible.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light torch", "response": "[with the tobacco]\nYou would have to be holding the torch to light it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light axe with pipe", "response": "You can't light the axe.\n\nThe pipe has gone out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The dog barks loudly and the guard says, \"Seeing as how it's you, Mr Holmes, I don't mind letting you in. But as you know we are very afraid of fire here, so we have trained this dog to detect matches or open flames. I'm afraid I can't allow you or your companion to enter until the match has been discarded.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the match", "response": "You drop the match.\n\nThe match flickers and dies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You come in off the street and are now standing in the lobby.\n\nAll around you are wax statues of famous people. To the west is a dark and ominous-looking doorway with a sign over it. The exit to the street is to the south.\n\nHolmes drops to his hands and knees and begins a minute examination of the floor. After a few moments he cries, \"Aha! Look here, Watson.\" He points to a miniscule speck of ash on the floor.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 41 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chop head", "response": "[with the knife]\nThe wax head wobbles slightly. Holmes says, \"Even when he was alive, he didn't have his head screwed on right.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the head", "response": "You take the wax head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light head", "response": "[with the tobacco]\nYou can't light the wax head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pipe in the torch", "response": "Your friend looks at you grimly and says, \"Impossible.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break ampoule", "response": "You would have to be holding the ampoule of etherium to do that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ampoule", "response": "You take the ampoule of etherium out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break ampoule", "response": "Holmes stops you. \"Do try to be discreet, old boy. My research is supposed to be kept secret.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nYou have in your ears:\nsome cotton balls.\nYou are holding:\nan ampoule of etherium.\na wax head.\nan axe.\na pipe.\na black bag.\na ring.\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco\nIn the black bag you see:\na clue paper\nan orange piece of paper\na brown piece of paper\na green piece of paper\nan old book\na shilling\na crayon\na knife", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn book", "response": "[taking the old book out of the black bag first].\n[with the tobacco]\nPerfect example of a typically repressive Victorian mentality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the orange piece of the paper", "response": "You take the orange piece of paper out of the black bag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn orange piece of paper", "response": "[with the tobacco]\nThe paper catches fire quickly.\n\nThe orange piece of paper vanishes in a poof of smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pacquet", "response": "You take the pacquet of paper.\n\nThe match flickers and dies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light pacquet", "response": "[with the tobacco]\nYou can't light the pacquet of paper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the house and pause in the entry hall. The door to the parlour is to the north, and a flight of well-worn stairs leads up to the first floor.\n\nYour companion enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You climb the stairs and pause outside the door. You are on a landing at the top of the stairs.\n\nHolmes's study is to the north.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You return to Holmes's study, which is in its usual disarray.\n\nThe bedroom door to the west is open. The only other exit is the door to the south.\n\nYou see a persian slipper. You see some mail on the mantelpiece.\n\nYour friend walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\na telescope.\na shilling.\nan old book.\na pistol.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na clue paper.\na stethoscope.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the mail", "response": "You take the mail off of the mantelpiece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You leave the study and pause outside the door. You are on a landing at the top of the stairs.\n\nHolmes's study is to the north.\n\nThe detective enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You descend the stairs into the entry hall. The parlour door is to the north. The front door is open.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You emerge from the house into Baker Street.\n\nYou are standing outside Holmes's house. The street continues to the north and south. The door to the house is to the west.\n\nHolmes follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is a quiet, residential street, lined with undistinguished, four storey Georgian houses. To the south, York Place opens up into Baker Street, and Marylebone Road comes in from the east.\n\nThe street isn't as quiet as usual, due to the surging crowds of tourists.\n\nYour friend joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself standing in front of Madame Tussaud's famous wax museum. From here the street continues east and west.\n\nThe museum is closed for renovations, and there is a guard and a dog patrolling the street outside the entrance, which is just to the north of you. The guard puffs on a cigarette, tips his hat, and says, \"Good day, Mr Holmes.\"\n\nThe detective follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pipe", "response": "You are holding too much already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nYou are holding:\nsome mail.\na telescope.\na shilling.\nan old book.\na pistol.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na lamp (providing light).\na green piece of paper.\na brown piece of paper.\nan orange piece of paper.\na pacquet of paper.\na clue paper.\na stethoscope.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na matchbook\na pipe\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the pipe you see:\nsome tobacco", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put all the piece paper in pacquet", "response": "The green piece of paper: Done.\nThe brown piece of paper: Done.\nThe orange piece of paper: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shilling in pocket", "response": "The clue paper: Done.\nThe shilling: Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pipe and the matchbook", "response": "The pipe: Taken.\nThe matchbook: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the matchbook", "response": "You open the matchbook.\nInside you see a match.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the lamp", "response": "You drop the lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the match and the matchbook", "response": "The match: Dropped.\nThe matchbook: Dropped.\n\nThe match flickers and dies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You come in off the street and are now standing in the lobby.\n\nAll around you are wax statues of famous people. To the west is a dark and ominous-looking doorway with a sign over it. The exit to the street is to the south.\n\nHolmes drops to his hands and knees and begins a minute examination of the floor. After a few moments he cries, \"Aha! Look here, Watson.\" He points to a miniscule speck of ash on the floor.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 29 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter the Chamber of Horrors. Scattered around the room are wax groupings of some of the most gruesome scenes from English history. The only exit is to the east.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn mail", "response": "[with the tobacco]\nThe mail lights up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light torch with mail", "response": "The torch catches fire quickly.\n\nHolmes looks at you and says, \"An ingenious solution, Watson. My compliments, old chap.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 4 points. The total is now 33 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the head", "response": "You take the wax head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn head", "response": "[What do you want to burn the head with?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You burn the head with the torch", "response": "The wax head melts into a pool of wax on the floor. You see a gem glittering in the wax.\n\nThe mail disappears in a flash of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gem", "response": "You take the emerald out of the wax pool.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 38 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the glass", "response": "You are already holding the magnifying glass.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the emerald with the glass", "response": "You see \"20/6/87\" scratched into the surface of the emerald.\n\nHolmes says, \"It's obviously not one of the Crown Jewels, Watson. In fact, this gem belongs to the Agra treasure, which was stolen in India many years ago and has never been recovered.\"\n\n\"The case grows more complex, Watson. We are in more danger than I had at first suspected.\" He removes a ring from one of his long, slender fingers and hands it to you. \"Here, Watson. Take this signet ring of mine. If anything should happen to me, take it to my brother Mycroft at the Diogenes Club. He'll tell you what to do.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 39 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You light the axe with torch", "response": "You would have to be holding the axe to light it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the axe", "response": "You take the axe off of the statue of Charles I.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You light the axe with the torch", "response": "The axe melts into a pool of wax on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You leave the Chamber of Horrors and go back into the lobby.\n\nAll around you are wax statues of famous people. To the west is a dark and ominous-looking doorway with a sign over it. The exit to the street is to the south.\n\nYou see some cigar ash.\n\nHolmes drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.\n\nThe pipe has gone out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The guard says, \"I'm sorry, but the torch is not to be removed.\" He takes it and returns it to the proper place.\n\nYou go out the door and are now standing in front of Madame Tussaud's famous wax museum. From here the street continues east and west.\n\nThe museum is closed for renovations, and there is a guard and a dog patrolling the street outside the entrance, which is just to the north of you. The guard lights a cigarette, tips his hat, and says, \"Goodbye, Mr Holmes.\"\n\nYou see a matchbook, a burnt match and a lamp.\n\nYour friend drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the lamp", "response": "You take the lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Again", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!\n\nTweeeeeeeeee!\n\nA hansom cab pulls up beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Covent garden", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou enter Covent Garden, which is the central market for all of London. Everywhere you look there are stalls packed with produce from the English countryside.\n\nThe open-air market is crowded with housewives who are shopping for fruits and vegetables.\n\nAfter looking around for a few moments, you see a crowd of women gathered around a girl who has collapsed on the ground. Her lifeless hand clutches a bunch of flowers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give it to girl", "response": "You take the yellow pill out of the brown bottle.\n\nYou give her the yellow pill.\n\nNothing happens for a moment, but then her eyelids flutter briefly and she opens her eyes.\n\nThe crowd breaks into applause, and they help her to her feet. When she is standing, she smiles at you shyly and puts a lovely carnation in your lapel as a gesture of thanks.\n\nJust then, a distinguished-looking gentleman appears on the scene, takes her by the arm, and says, \"Come, Eliza. We mustn't be late for the ball.\"\n\nHe escorts her away, but as she leaves, she glances back at you once more with a grateful expression in her lovely eyes.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 44 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put it in the hat", "response": "You take the stethoscope out of your ears.\n\nYou would have to take off your hat first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the scope in hat", "response": "You take off your hat.\n\nYou put the telescope in your hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the hat", "response": "You put on your hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!\n\nTweeeeeeeeee!\n\nA hansom cab pulls up beside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You and Holmes get out of the cab. After you get out, it drives off.\n\n\n\nYou enter the cramped quarters of Sherman's shop. The old animal-trainer's eyes brighten up when he sees you.\n\n\"You've probably come looking for Toby,\" he says. \"But I'm afraid I won't be able to help you this time. Toby's not feeling too well, and all my other animals are already out on loan. All I have left is a half-trained pigeon.\"\n\nThe detective trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sherman for the pigeon", "response": "Sherman hands you the bird. \"Take good care of him, now. I've grown fond of him.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 45 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You emerge from Sherman's shop into Pinchin Lane, a dingy little alley that runs north to Cheapside.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to Sherman's shop.\n\nYour companion walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Birdcage Walk", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nAs you enter Birdcage Walk, your attention is diverted to a man who has set up a small souvenir stand near where the parade will pass on Tuesday. Hoping to attract the attention of the crowd, he is waving a handful of overpriced trinkets over his head.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n[Press any key to continue.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Haggle with man", "response": "\"Sorry, guv. No refunds.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nYour pocket contains:\na shilling.\na clue paper.\nYou are holding:\na pigeon.\na stethoscope.\na lamp (providing light).\na ring.\nan emerald.\na pipe.\nan old book.\na pistol.\nCaptain Bligh's oar.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\nan orange piece of paper\na brown piece of paper\na green piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the hat", "response": "You take off your hat. Inside you see a telescope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "This is an attractive square at the foot of Whitehall. Large crowds mill around the entrance to the Houses of Parliament to the southeast. To the west is Birdcage Walk. Broad Sanctuary goes off to the southwest, and Whitehall is to the north.\n\nHolmes trails along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Impressive government buildings line the street on either side. The street continues north and south, and the entrance to Scotland Yard is to the east.\n\nYour friend follows you and begins pacing back and forth nervously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Pigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are standing in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are people feeding pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.\n\nThe detective joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the telescope", "response": "You take the telescope out of your hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the stethoscope in the hat", "response": "You put the stethoscope in your hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!\n\nThe pigeon circles above you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "Tweeeeeeeeee!\n\nA hansom cab pulls up beside you.\n\nThe pigeon circles above you for the last time, and flies out of sight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Sherman's shop is dingy and cramped. Dozens of empty cages are stacked up against the walls.\n\nYour companion walks into the room alongside you.\n\nSherman says, \"Welcome back. It's a pleasure to see you again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Sherman about the pigeon", "response": "Sherman says, \"He came back with a ruby. I don't know where he found it.\" He gives you the ruby.\n\nHolmes looks at you approvingly and says, \"Bravo, Watson. Well done, old chap.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 50 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You push your way into the jam-packed entrance hall of the House of Commons.\n\nThere are hundreds of people lined up to get in. But off to one side you see a flight of old stone steps leading up into the darkness.\n\nYour friend enters and begins pacing back and forth nervously.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The stairs seem to wind up forever. Finally, you emerge into the interior of the clock tower, high above the Houses of Parliament.\n\nThe immense bell known as Big Ben is hanging from the ceiling, suspended over a hollow shaft that is so deep it might as well be bottomless. A wooden railing runs around the shaft for safety.\n\nInside the bell, you see an enormous clapper, to which is glued a beautiful, deep-blue sapphire.\n\nThe detective follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the balls", "response": "You take the cotton balls out of the blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the balls in the ears", "response": "You put the cotton balls in your ears.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "The stairs seem to wind up forever. Finally, you emerge into the interior of the clock tower, high above the Houses of Parliament.\n\nThe immense bell known as Big Ben is hanging from the ceiling, suspended over a hollow shaft that is so deep it might as well be bottomless. A wooden railing runs around the shaft for safety.\n\nInside the bell, you see an enormous clapper, to which is glued a beautiful, deep-blue sapphire.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait until 6", "response": "[6:00]\n\nTime passes...\n\nThe bell swings towards you, ringing loudly, but the cotton protects your ears. Holmes claps his hands to his ears in an attempt to protect them. The clapper swings up within reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sapphire", "response": "You tug at the sapphire, but you can't quite grab it before it swings out of reach again.\n\nThe bell swings away from you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe bell swings towards you, ringing loudly, but the cotton protects your ears. The clapper swings up within reach.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sapphire", "response": "You remove the sapphire from the clapper.\n\nHolmes beams at you and says, \"Good show, old fellow.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 55 out of\n100.]\n\nThe bell swings away from you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You descend the stairs into the jam-packed entrance hall of the House of Commons.\n\nThere are hundreds of people lined up to get in. But off to one side you see a flight of old stone steps leading up into the darkness.\n\nHolmes joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the balls in the blue bottle", "response": "[taking off the cotton balls first]\nYou put the cotton balls in the blue bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "This is an attractive square at the foot of Whitehall. Large crowds mill around the entrance to the Houses of Parliament to the southeast. To the west is Birdcage Walk. Broad Sanctuary goes off to the southwest, and Whitehall is to the north.\n\nYour friend drifts along after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Embankment", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou arrive at the Victoria Embankment, on the left bank of the Thames. The river is crowded with pleasure boats here for the Jubilee.\n\nThere is an incredibly old rowboat here. It's got one empty oarlock, and it probably leaks, but it looks as if it might float.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "[Launch the Boat.]\nThe boat slips away from the Embankment. You are now in the middle of the Thames.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Row east", "response": "You row down the river. Downstream you see the London Bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the moss", "response": "As soon as you touch the clump of moss, it crumbles. You are left holding a beautiful opal.\n\nHolmes claps you on the shoulder and says, \"Capital, Watson. Capital!\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 60 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bank of london", "response": "[There is no london in this story.]\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bank of England", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou enter Threadneedle Street and are now in front of the Bank of England. The entrance to the bank is to the north, Cheapside leads off to the west, and King William Street disappears off into the darkness to the southeast. On the wall is a small sign.\n\nA bank guard is lounging up against the wall, idly jangling some keys in his pocket while he watches a group of urchins playing in the street.\n\nOne of the urchins looks strangely familiar to you.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n[Press any key to continue.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the urchins", "response": "Despite the hour, the urchins are playing games in the street.\n\nOne of the urchins looks strangely familiar to you.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the urchin", "response": "After staring at his dirty face for a few moments, you suddenly recognize the boy. He is Wiggins, the head of the Baker Street Irregulars, which is Holmes's unofficial army of street urchins who \"go everywhere and do everything.\"\nWiggins is shifting his weight from one foot to the other.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Wiggins about the guard", "response": "\"Beats me. What do you think?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give shilling to Wiggins", "response": "[taking the shilling out of your pocket first].\nWiggins looks at the shilling and then at you. After a few moments he stuffs it deep into the recesses of his clothing and says, \"I'm all yours. Wot's the plan?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the keys", "response": "Wiggins casually strolls past the guard and says, \"Cor blimey. That bird isn't 'alf built, is she?\" While the guard's attention is diverted, Wiggins's hand flashes in and out of his pocket. Then just as casually as before, he strolls back to you, slips something into your hand, and whispers, \"Sorry I couldn't get everything, guv. I 'ope this is enough.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 61 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The guard stops you as you try to enter. \"Excuse me, sir. You can't go in there. And don't even THINK about trying to bribe me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give ruby to the guard", "response": "\"Now this is very nice. But I think I would need more than just one to make letting you in worth my while. I'll hold this for you until you come back.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give sapphire to guard", "response": "\"One more and you're in.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the opal to the guard", "response": "The guard looks furtively up and down the street. Then he whispers to you out of the side of his mouth, \"Good enough. Go on in.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 3 points. The total is now 64 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "As soon as you enter, the guard leaves.\n\nThe bank has the eerie silence that normally crowded places have when no one is there. The door to the vault is set into the west wall.\n\nThe detective drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The vault door is locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the key", "response": "How do you intend to do that?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You emerge into Threadneedle Street and are now in front of the Bank of England. The entrance to the bank is to the north, Cheapside leads off to the west, and King William Street disappears off into the darkness to the southeast. On the wall is a small sign.\n\nA group of urchins is playing in the street.\n\nWiggins is here.\n\nYour companion walks alongside you.\n\nSuddenly, someone grabs you from behind, pins your arms to your sides, and covers up your head. You struggle fiercely to get loose, but to no avail. Then you hear a voice shout, \"Let him go, we've got the other one.\"\n\nThe person holding you knocks you on the head and flings you to the ground. You lose consciousness for a few moments, and when you awake, you are alone.\n\nSherlock Holmes has been kidnapped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "As soon as you enter, the guard leaves.\n\nThe bank has the eerie silence that normally crowded places have when no one is there. The door to the vault is set into the west wall.\n\nYour companion drifts in after you, apparently lost in thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The vault door is closed.\n\nIn the middle of the door you see a big shiny dial.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You set the dial", "response": "[What do you want to set the dial to?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial", "response": "The dial turns smoothly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to dial", "response": "At the moment, the dial is silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial", "response": "Clunk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the dial right", "response": "Whirr.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "Click.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "Click. Kerchunk. The vault door swings open.\n\nHolmes says, \"Splendid, Watson. The net is drawing ever tighter around our quarry.\"\n\n[Your score just went up by 3 points. The total is now 67 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Upon entering, you see rows and rows of safety deposit boxes.\n\nHolmes trails along after you.\n\nHolmes says, \"Watson, take that ridiculous thing out of your ears.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine boxes", "response": "There are rows and rows of safety deposit boxes, all alike, numbered from 1 to 999.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get box 600", "response": "Your friend looks at you grimly and says, \"Impossible.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get number 600", "response": "Your companion looks at you in despair and says, \"I thought you had more sense than that, Watson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the box 600 with the key", "response": "You open the box with the key. Inside you see a topaz.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the topaz", "response": "You take the topaz out of the safety deposit box.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 72 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at topaz", "response": "It looks as if there is a scratch on the topaz.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scratch with the glass", "response": "You see \"Bar of Gold.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the topaz to Holmes", "response": "\"We have already discussed the significance of these gems, Watson.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The bank has the eerie silence that normally crowded places have when no one is there. The door to the vault is set into the west wall.\n\nHolmes walks into the room alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You emerge into Threadneedle Street and are now in front of the Bank of England. The entrance to the bank is to the north, Cheapside leads off to the west, and King William Street disappears off into the darkness to the southeast. On the wall is a small sign.\n\nA group of urchins is playing in the street.\n\nWiggins is here.\n\nYour friend walks alongside you.\n\nSuddenly, someone grabs you from behind, pins your arms to your sides, and covers up your head. You struggle fiercely to get loose, but to no avail. Then you hear a voice shout, \"Let him go, we've got the other one.\"\n\nThe person holding you knocks you on the head and flings you to the ground. You lose consciousness for a few moments, and when you awake, you are alone.\n\nSherlock Holmes has been kidnapped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Wiggins about Holmes", "response": "Wiggins says, \"I saw it all, guv'nor. But it was over before I could lift a finger. Mr 'Olmes was a friend to me, 'e was. And I'd do anyfing to 'elp you get 'im back.\"\n\n\"E's a good man, guv'nor. Best as ever was.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You follow you", "response": "\"After you, guv.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "This is a ramshackle part of town, with dark alleys leading off the main street, which continues east and west. Pinchin Lane leads off to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You and Wiggins get into the cab.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Diogenes Club", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nPigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are in a cab in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.\n\nThe fog swirls around you.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n[Press any key to continue.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You and Wiggins get out of the cab. After you get out, it drives off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You enter the hushed atmosphere of the Diogenes Club. The furnishings are aging and opulent. The members are aging and asleep. The only exit is to the east.\n\nAn ancient butler totters forward to greet you and says in a barely audible whisper, \"May I be of some assistance?\"\n\nThe boy follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the butler about Mycroft", "response": "The butler listens to you and then leaves. He comes back shortly.\n\n\"Mr Mycroft Holmes requires that you offer some token to verify that you are indeed the person you claim to be. Give whatever it is to me and I will take it to him.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the ring to butler", "response": "The butler accepts the item and asks you to wait while he takes it to Mr Mycroft Holmes.\n\nAfter a few moments, Mycroft Holmes appears. He looks very worried.\n\n\"Sherlock warned me that you might come,\" he says. \"And the fact that you are here indicates that he is indeed in trouble. I believe that in order to solve this mystery, you are going to have to go to the Tower of London. It will be closed, but you can give the password 'Cleves' to the guard at the Byward Tower. He will let you in. Good luck.\"\n\nMycroft pauses before he goes and looks at you meditatively, as if trying to decide if he can put his faith in you to rescue his brother. After a moment he gives his head an unconscious nod, then turns around and disappears back into the club.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 73 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Pigeons, pigeons, everywhere. You are standing in one of the great open spaces of London, named for Nelson's naval victory over Napoleon in 1805. Streets come in and go out at all angles, and everywhere you look there are pigeons.\n\nThe square is dominated by Nelson's Column, a 167 foot tall Corinthian column with a statue of Nelson on the top and a bronze relief on the pedestal at the bottom.\n\nThe entrance to the Diogenes Club is to the west.\n\nYou can barely see through the thick fog.\n\nThe urchin walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tower of London", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou are in a cab outside the entrance to the Tower of London. Next to the entrance there is a sign.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You and Wiggins get out of the cab. After you get out, it drives off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You enter Lower Thames Street. Roads lead off in many directions, some more savory than others. There is a set of particularly slovenly stairs leading down to an alley that runs alongside the river.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You are standing outside the entrance to the Tower of London. Next to the entrance there is a sign.\n\nYour assistant drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "So far, so good. No one has challenged your right to be here. Maybe the Tower has been left unguarded.\n\nTo the east you see the Byward Tower, and to the west is the Tower Entrance.\n\nWiggins follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Your luck runs out. A costumed Yeoman of the Guard steps forward to challenge you.\n\nA few of the Tower's famous ravens are perched here, watching your every move.\n\nThe boy walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Cleves", "response": "The guard steps aside as you walk in.\n\nThis is the Outer Ward. From here you can go north, south, or west.\n\nA few of the Tower's famous ravens are perched here, watching your every move.\n\nThe urchin joins you and starts looking around with interest.\n\n[Your score just went up by 3 points. The total is now 76 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You enter the Bloody Tower where, allegedly, the \"Little Princes in the Tower\" met their death. One exit leads north. The other leads south.\n\nYour companion drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You are on Tower Green, which is at the centre of the Tower of London. Entrances to various towers lie to the northeast, east, southeast, and south. A few ravens are strolling around the green, eyeing you with interest.\n\nYour assistant follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You enter the Bloody Tower where, allegedly, the \"Little Princes in the Tower\" met their death. One exit leads north. The other leads south.\n\nWiggins walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This is the Outer Ward. From here you can go north, south, or west.\n\nA few of the Tower's famous ravens are perched here, watching your every move.\n\nThe boy joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk south from the Outer Ward and find yourself just north of Traitors Gate. The portcullis is down. From the wall near the portcullis hangs a chain, and perched on top of the wall are some ravens.\n\nYou see a paddle.\n\nThe urchin drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the paddle", "response": "You take the paddle.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 77 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chain", "response": "The chain is hanging just within reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the chain", "response": "Your companion says, \"You must be out of your bleedin' mind.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ravens", "response": "The ravens stare at you with baleful eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nYour pocket contains:\na clue paper.\nYou are holding:\na paddle.\na topaz.\na stethoscope.\na key.\na telescope.\nyour hat.\na lamp (providing light).\na pipe.\nan old book.\na pistol.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\nan orange piece of paper\na brown piece of paper\na green piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\nan ampoule of etherium\na crayon\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the blue bottle you see:\nsome cotton balls\nan orange pill", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look through Gate", "response": "[the portcullis]\n\nYou look through the gate.\n\nYou see an old boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the portcullis", "response": "Oomph. The portcullis is too heavy to lift.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This is the Outer Ward. From here you can go north, south, or west.\n\nA few of the Tower's famous ravens are perched here, watching your every move.\n\nYour assistant follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "A costumed Yeoman of the Guard steps forward to challenge you.\n\nA few of the Tower's famous ravens are perched here, watching your every move.\n\nWiggins walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Cleves", "response": "\"I am sorry, but I have strict orders to allow absolutely no one to leave the Tower, whether or not he knows the password. The Prime Minister himself could not get out of here before Monday morning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The guard nods as you pass.\nOuter Ward\n\nThis is the Outer Ward. From here you can go north, south, or west.\n\nA few of the Tower's famous ravens are perched here, watching your every move.\n\nThe boy joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You enter the Bloody Tower where, allegedly, the \"Little Princes in the Tower\" met their death. One exit leads north. The other leads south.\n\nThe urchin drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are on Tower Green, which is at the centre of the Tower of London. Entrances to various towers lie to the northeast, east, southeast, and south. A few ravens are strolling around the green, eyeing you with interest.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You leave the gloom of the Tower Green for the gloom of the Wakefield Tower.\n\nThere is a dark stone staircase leading up, and the only other exit is to the northwest.\n\nYour assistant walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The stairs take you up to the Jewel Room of the Tower of London. The case that once held the Regalia is twisted and smashed, and the weapon that the thief used is lying on the ground nearby.\n\nWiggins joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the weapon", "response": "You take the mace.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 78 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the case", "response": "The case is bent and twisted where the thief attacked it with the mace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the case with the glass", "response": "It's been wiped clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in the Jewel Room of the Tower of London. The case that once held the Regalia is twisted and smashed.\n\nThe boy appears eager to help.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You descend the stairs into the ground floor of the Wakefield Tower.\n\nThere is a dark stone staircase leading up, and the only other exit is to the northwest.\n\nThe urchin drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "You are on Tower Green, which is at the centre of the Tower of London. Entrances to various towers lie to the northeast, east, southeast, and south. A few ravens are strolling around the green, eyeing you with interest.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is the White Tower, which was started by William the Conqueror in 1078. Exits lead out and down.\n\nYour assistant walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You inch your way down the dark stairs and arrive in the oldest part of the Tower, the Dungeon.\n\nThe room has been converted into museum space, and prominently featured is a man-size suit of armour.\n\nWiggins joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the suit", "response": "The suit of armour was made for Henry VIII.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the suit", "response": "You put on the suit of armour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in the oldest part of the Tower, the Dungeon.\n\nThe boy is standing around, waiting for you to do something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "This is the White Tower, which was started by William the Conqueror in 1078. Exits lead out and down.\n\nThe urchin drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You are on Tower Green, which is at the centre of the Tower of London. Entrances to various towers lie to the northeast, east, southeast, and south. A few ravens are strolling around the green, eyeing you with interest.\n\nYour companion follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "You enter the Bowyer Tower. It was in this room that the Duke of Clarence was drowned in a Butt of Malmsey in 1478. The keg still stands over in the corner.\n\nExits lead out and down.\n\nYour assistant walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the keg", "response": "It's an old wooden keg that's brimming over with malmsey and covered with stains where the wine has spilled down the sides and leaked through the bung.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search keg", "response": "You see some malmsey inside the butt of malmsey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wine", "response": "Wiggins says, \"That's ruddy impossible.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the wine", "response": "You start to drink the wine and get a little tipsy. But even in your altered state of consciousness you soon realize you'll never be able to drink all of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are in the Bowyer Tower. It was in this room that the Duke of Clarence was drowned in a Butt of Malmsey in 1478. The keg still stands over in the corner.\n\nExits lead out and down.\n\nThe boy is looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You enter the torture room below the Bowyer Tower. Around the walls are hung various instruments of torture. The stairs leading up are the only way out.\n\nThe urchin joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the instruments", "response": "Your companion says, \"Not bloody likely.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You enter the Bowyer Tower. It was in this room that the Duke of Clarence was drowned in a Butt of Malmsey in 1478. The keg still stands over in the corner.\n\nExits lead out and down.\n\nYour assistant drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "You are on Tower Green, which is at the centre of the Tower of London. Entrances to various towers lie to the northeast, east, southeast, and south. A few ravens are strolling around the green, eyeing you with interest.\n\nWiggins follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You enter the Bloody Tower where, allegedly, the \"Little Princes in the Tower\" met their death. One exit leads north. The other leads south.\n\nThe boy walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "This is the Outer Ward. From here you can go north, south, or west.\n\nA few of the Tower's famous ravens are perched here, watching your every move.\n\nThe urchin joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You walk south from the Outer Ward and find yourself just north of Traitors Gate. The portcullis is down. From the wall near the portcullis hangs a chain, and perched on top of the wall are some ravens.\n\nYour companion drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chain", "response": "The chain is hanging just within reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the chain", "response": "You grab the chain and lift your feet off the ground. The portcullis' ancient mechanism creaks, but then it rises up and locks into place. When you release the chain, the massive gate remains open.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 79 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You pass under the portcullis and find yourself just south of Traitors Gate, through which condemned prisoners were brought in to the Tower prior to being executed. The massive iron portcullis is up.\n\nYou see an old boat.\n\nYour assistant follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the paddle in the boat", "response": "You put the paddle in the old boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the boat", "response": "It's an incredibly old rowboat that probably leaks. But it looks as if it might float. The boat's anchor is in the water.\nIn the old boat you see a paddle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "In the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\n\n\nYou pass under the portcullis and find yourself just north of Traitors Gate. The portcullis is up. From the wall near the portcullis hangs a chain, and perched on top of the wall are some ravens.\n\nWiggins walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the ampoule", "response": "You break open the ampoule. The etherium is released into the room. Suddenly, everything starts to spin. You pass out and fall to the ground. Sometime later you awaken and stumble back to your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\na whistle.\na suit of armour.\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nYour pocket contains:\na clue paper.\nYou are holding:\nan ampoule of etherium.\na mace.\na topaz.\na stethoscope.\na key.\na telescope.\nyour hat.\na lamp (providing light).\na pipe.\nan old book.\na pistol.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\nan orange piece of paper\na brown piece of paper\na green piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\na crayon\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the blue bottle you see:\nsome cotton balls\nan orange pill", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You reach in the keg", "response": "You stick an arm down into the malmsey, but you come up empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the keg", "response": "Wiggins dutifully climbs into the full butt of malmsey and has a nice bath and gets out again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search Malmsey", "response": "\"I would if I could, guv. But I don't see 'ow to do it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hold the keg", "response": "The urchin says, \"Nice try, Guv.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bung", "response": "You can't. It's jammed in too tight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit bung with the mace", "response": "The bung flies across the room and lands in the corner. The malmsey streams out of the butt and across the floor. Soon the keg is completely empty, and there's wine all over the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search keg", "response": "You see a garnet inside the empty butt of malmsey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the garnet", "response": "You can't. Your shoulders are too broad, and your arms are too short for you to reach to the bottom of the butt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the garnet", "response": "Wiggins climbs into the empty butt of malsey, gets the gem, gets out, and gives it to you.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 84 out of\n100.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at gem with the glass", "response": "[The garnet]\n\nYou see \"Give me to Akbar\" scratched into the surface of the garnet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You are on Tower Green, which is at the centre of the Tower of London. Entrances to various towers lie to the northeast, east, southeast, and south. A few ravens are strolling around the green, eyeing you with interest.\n\nYour companion joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You enter the Bloody Tower where, allegedly, the \"Little Princes in the Tower\" met their death. One exit leads north. The other leads south.\n\nYour assistant drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is the Outer Ward. From here you can go north, south, or west.\n\nA few of the Tower's famous ravens are perched here, watching your every move.\n\nWiggins follows you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You walk south from the Outer Ward and find yourself just north of Traitors Gate. The portcullis is up. From the wall near the portcullis hangs a chain, and perched on top of the wall are some ravens.\n\nThe boy walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\na whistle.\na suit of armour.\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nYour pocket contains:\na clue paper.\nYou are holding:\na garnet.\nan ampoule of etherium.\na mace.\na topaz.\na stethoscope.\na key.\na telescope.\nyour hat.\na lamp (providing light).\na pipe.\nan old book.\na pistol.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\nan orange piece of paper\na brown piece of paper\na green piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\na crayon\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the blue bottle you see:\nsome cotton balls\nan orange pill", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take off the armour", "response": "You take off the suit of armour and leave it on the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the mace", "response": "You drop the mace.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You pass under the portcullis and find yourself just south of Traitors Gate, through which condemned prisoners were brought in to the Tower prior to being executed. The massive iron portcullis is up.\n\nYou see an old boat.\n\nThe urchin joins you and starts looking around with interest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The last man who walked on water was killed by a bunch of Romans. Why don't you play it safe and use a boat?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the boat", "response": "You and Wiggins get into the boat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the paddle", "response": "You take the paddle out of the old boat.\n\nThe boat drifts down the river. Downstream you see the open seas... the strong currents would surely leave you stranded in your small boat if you were to drift further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paddle west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you paddle upstream. Upstream, you see the London Bridge, to the north you see the Traitors Gate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paddle west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you paddle upstream. You pass under the London Bridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paddle west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you paddle upstream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Paddle west", "response": "Fighting against the current, you paddle upstream. To the north you see the Embankment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "As you and Wiggins get out of the boat, its red-faced owner runs up and yells, \"You again?!!\" He gives you a swift kick in the rear.\n\nThe man jumps into the boat, launches it, and suddenly realizes he has no way to steer it. The last you see of him, he is drifting down the Thames, screaming and shaking his fist at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nYour pocket contains:\na clue paper.\nYou are holding:\na paddle.\na garnet.\nan ampoule of etherium.\na topaz.\na stethoscope.\na key.\na telescope.\nyour hat.\na lamp (providing light).\na pipe.\nan old book.\na pistol.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\nan orange piece of paper\na brown piece of paper\na green piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\na crayon\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the blue bottle you see:\nsome cotton balls\nan orange pill", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You and Wiggins get into the cab.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\n\"Where to, guv'nor?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bar of Gold", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou enter Lower Thames Street. Roads lead off in many directions, some more savory than others. There is a set of particularly slovenly stairs leading down to an alley that runs alongside the river.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You and Wiggins get out of the cab. After you get out, it drives off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "With increasing apprehension, you descend into Swan Lane, which runs along the waterfront of the Thames.\n\nIt is a seedy, disreputable, run-down part of town that normally you wouldn't be caught dead in. After a moment's reflection, you wish you hadn't thought of it in quite those terms.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to one of the least savory buildings you have ever seen. There is a faded sign above the door that informs you that the establishment was, in better days, known as the Bar of Gold.\n\nFortunately, it is only a short walk back up the stairs to Lower Thames Street.\n\nYour companion drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Wiggins says, \"You must be stark raving bonkers. That's the most dangerous place in London. I'll wait out here, thank you very much!\"\n\nAfter fighting the urge to turn and run, you enter and find yourself in the Bar of Gold, the most infamous opium den in London. The proprietor is a most unsavory character who gives you a sidelong glance as you enter and then ignores you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are standing - rather nervously - in the Bar of Gold, the most infamous opium den in London. The proprietor is a most unsavory character who hasn't given you a second look since you came in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "You are standing - rather nervously - in the Bar of Gold, the most infamous opium den in London. The proprietor is a most unsavory character who hasn't given you a second look since you came in.\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Swordfish", "response": "The denkeeper says, \"Not now, mate. Can't you see I'm busy?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the garnet to the proprietor", "response": "The denkeeper gives you a quick look of surprise, then he shrugs his shoulders and disappears briefly into a back room, returning moments later without the garnet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "With increasing apprehension, you descend into Swan Lane, which runs along the waterfront of the Thames.\n\nIt is a seedy, disreputable, run-down part of town that normally you wouldn't be caught dead in. After a moment's reflection, you wish you hadn't thought of it in quite those terms.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to one of the least savory buildings you have ever seen. There is a faded sign above the door that informs you that the establishment was, in better days, known as the Bar of Gold.\n\nFortunately, it is only a short walk back up the stairs to Lower Thames Street.\n\nYour assistant drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Wiggins says, \"You must be stark raving bonkers. That's the most dangerous place in London. I'll wait out here, thank you very much!\"\n\nAfter fighting the urge to turn and run, you enter and find yourself in the Bar of Gold, the most infamous opium den in London. The proprietor is a most unsavory character who gives you a sidelong glance as you enter and then ignores you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Swordfish", "response": "The denkeeper says, \"Not now, mate. Can't you see I'm busy?\"\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You say the Swordfish", "response": "The denkeeper disappears into a back room and reappears moments later, accompanied by a tall, silent man who has dark skin and wears a white turban.\n\nThe Indian glances at your uncovered head and then intones, \"I am Akbar. What is it that you wish?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the garnet to Akbar", "response": "Akbar takes the garnet and examines it closely. Then he grabs you by the arm and drags you into a back room. He frisks you and takes away everything you are carrying. Then he blindfolds you and leads you down a series of long winding corridors. You hear a door close behind you, and when he finally removes the blindfold, you are standing in Moriarty's lair. Akbar locks the door behind you, drops the key on Moriarty's desk, and piles most of what you were carrying onto the floor.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 89 out of\n100.]\n\nAt last you come face to face with the evil Professor. He is sitting placidly behind his desk, looking at you as if you were some botanical specimen.\n\nAs you look around the room, you see Sherlock Holmes tied to a chair. He is only inches away from the Crown Jewels, which Moriarty has spread out on his desk, the better to taunt Holmes.\n\nHolmes looks up and says, \"Ah, there you are Watson.\" He turns his head towards Moriarty and says, \"You see, Professor, you grossly underestimate the intelligence and determination of your fellow countrymen.\"\n\n\"Watson,\" he continues. \"The Professor and I have just been chatting about why he led us on this merry chase. If you care to ask him, I'm sure he would be happy to fill you in as well.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Moriarty about Jewels", "response": "\"Pretty, are they not? I purloined them at the request of a foreign government whose identity need not concern you. My clients care nothing about the Crown Jewels themselves - they wish only to undermine confidence in the British monarchy as a first step towards weakening and ultimately destroying the British Empire.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Moriarty about Holmes", "response": "\"Holmes is a worthy adversary, Doctor. And his kidnapping was purely accidental. It was nothing more than a blunder on the part of an overeager subordinate. The guard at the bank knew nothing of my plan. He merely saw a chance to capture and deliver to me the famous Sherlock Holmes, and he took it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Moriarty about Watson", "response": "\"Your lives and the fate of your precious monarchy hang in the balance, Doctor. Have you nothing better to do than to query me about you?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\nYou are holding:\nnothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Escape", "response": "[Which way do you want to go?]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ampoule", "response": "You are already holding the ampoule of etherium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hat", "response": "You are already holding your hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ampoule in the hat", "response": "You put the ampoule of etherium in your hat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour hat.\nyour coat.\na whistle.\nIn your lapel you see:\na carnation\nYour pocket contains:\na clue paper.\nYou are holding:\na paddle.\na garnet.\na topaz.\na stethoscope.\na key.\na telescope.\na lamp (providing light).\na pipe.\nan old book.\na pistol.\na magnifying glass.\na pacquet of paper.\na black bag.\nIn the pacquet of paper you see:\nan orange piece of paper\na brown piece of paper\na green piece of paper\na white piece of paper\na yellow piece of paper\na blue piece of paper\nIn the black bag you see:\na crayon\na knife\na brown bottle\na blue bottle\nIn the blue bottle you see:\nsome cotton balls\nan orange pill", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swordfish", "response": "The denkeeper disappears into a back room and reappears moments later, accompanied by a tall, silent man who has dark skin and wears a white turban.\n\nThe Indian glances at your head and then intones, \"I am Akbar, honourable sir. What is it that you wish?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the garnet to Akbar", "response": "Akbar takes the garnet and examines it closely. Then he says, \"I must ask you to come with me, sir. But first, I ask that you give me all that you carry.\" He takes everything you give him, and then apologizes as he places a blindfold over your eyes. He leads you down a series of long winding corridors. You hear a door close behind you, and when he finally removes the blindfold, you are standing in Moriarty's lair. Akbar locks the door behind you, drops the key on Moriarty's desk, and piles most of what you were carrying onto the floor.\n\n[Your score just went up by 5 points. The total is now 89 out of\n100.]\n\nAt last you come face to face with the evil Professor. He is sitting placidly behind his desk, looking at you as if you were some botanical specimen.\n\nAs you look around the room, you see Sherlock Holmes tied to a chair. He is only inches away from the Crown Jewels, which Moriarty has spread out on his desk, the better to taunt Holmes.\n\nHolmes looks up and says, \"Ah, there you are Watson.\" He turns his head towards Moriarty and says, \"You see, Professor, you grossly underestimate the intelligence and determination of your fellow countrymen.\"\n\n\"Watson,\" he continues. \"The Professor and I have just been chatting about why he led us on this merry chase. If you care to ask him, I'm sure he would be happy to fill you in as well.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are wearing:\nyour coat.\nyour hat.\nYou are holding:\nnothing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove hat", "response": "You take off your hat. Disconcerted by your sacrilegious action, Akbar averts his gaze. Inside you see an ampoule of etherium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the ampoule", "response": "Moriarty's normally emotionless features dissolve in rage. He shouts at Akbar, \"Why didn't you take that from him when you brought him in?\"\n\nThe outburst startles Akbar into momentary inaction, but he quickly recovers and starts to come towards you with a violent look in his eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the ampoule", "response": "You break open the ampoule. The etherium is released into the room. Suddenly, everything starts to spin. You pass out and fall to the ground. Sometime later you awaken and stumble back to your feet.\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "4", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. The detective is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hints", "response": "Do you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "3", "response": "%% Enter a save filename to read:", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "Restore failed.\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. The detective is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\n[UNDO completed.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the ampoule at Akbar", "response": "The ampoule of etherium misses Akbar by a mile and lands on the floor nearby.\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. Your companion is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\n[UNDO completed.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Holmes about ampoule", "response": "Holmes glances around quickly and then whispers, \"I know I can trust your discretion, Watson, but you must promise to keep this under your hat. I have been conducting secret experiments for the government at Mycroft's request, and I have developed a new knockout gas that I call 'etherium.' It is an extremely powerful derivative of ether, and one ampoule of it will render unconscious an entire room of people for several hours. It has no harmful side effects, but it is highly explosive and extremely dangerous to use near open flames. You may keep it if you wish, but please carry it in a secure place, safe from prying eyes.\"\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. Holmes is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\n[UNDO completed.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw ampoule at Moriarty", "response": "The ampoule of etherium misses Moriarty by a mile and lands on the floor nearby.\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. Your friend is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\n[UNDO completed.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put hat on the face", "response": "There is no good surface on that part of your body.\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give ampoule to Holmes", "response": "Holmes's hands aren't free. You can't give him anything.\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. Your companion is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\n[UNDO completed.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cotton", "response": "[the cotton balls]\n\nAkbar steps in your way and stops you from taking the cotton balls.\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. Holmes is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\n[UNDO completed.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Moriarty about the chase", "response": "I purloined the Crown Jewels at the request of a foreign government whose identity need not concern you. My clients care nothing about the Crown Jewels themselves - they wish only to undermine confidence in the British monarchy as a first step towards weakening and ultimately destroying the British Empire.\"\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. The detective is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\n[UNDO completed.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You punch Akbar", "response": "Calm down.\n\nAkbar removes everything from your hands, and then hits you over the head. The last thing you see before losing consciousness is the look of defeat on Holmes's face.\n\nYou awake sometime later to find yourself bound hand and foot. Moriarty is standing over you with a newspaper in his hand.\n\n\"You fought well, Doctor. But you have lost.\"\n\nMoriarty takes the Crown Jewels and departs, leaving you to ponder your defeat and the inevitable demise of the British Empire.\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You untie Holmes", "response": "As you reach for the rope, Akbar hits you over the head.\n\nWhen you regain consciousness, you find that your hands and feet are bound. Outside you hear the paper boy run through the streets shouting out \"Crown Jewels stolen! Prime Minister resigns in disgrace!\"\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "5", "response": "The room is simply, but elegantly, furnished. Your companion is securely bound to a chair with a thick rope.\n\nYou see a clue paper, a carnation, a black bag, a pacquet of paper, a magnifying glass, a pistol, an old book, a pipe, a lamp, a telescope, a stethoscope, a topaz, a garnet, a paddle and a whistle. Akbar and Moriarty are here. You see Moriarty's key and the Crown Jewels on the desk.\n[UNDO completed.]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "In the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\n\n\nUpper Thames Street runs east and west between the Embankment and Lower Thames Street.\n\nYour assistant drifts along after you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You enter Lower Thames Street. Roads lead off in many directions, some more savory than others. There is a set of particularly slovenly stairs leading down to an alley that runs alongside the river.\n\nWiggins follows you.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "With increasing apprehension, you descend into Swan Lane, which runs along the waterfront of the Thames.\n\nIt is a seedy, disreputable, run-down part of town that normally you wouldn't be caught dead in. After a moment's reflection, you wish you hadn't thought of it in quite those terms.\n\nTo the west is the entrance to one of the least savory buildings you have ever seen. There is a faded sign above the door that informs you that the establishment was, in better days, known as the Bar of Gold.\n\nFortunately, it is only a short walk back up the stairs to Lower Thames Street.\n\nThe boy walks alongside you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Wiggins says, \"You must be stark raving bonkers. That's the most dangerous place in London. I'll wait out here, thank you very much!\"\n\nAfter fighting the urge to turn and run, you enter and find yourself in the Bar of Gold, the most infamous opium den in London. The proprietor is a most unsavory character who gives you a sidelong glance as you enter and then ignores you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait until 12", "response": "[12:00]\n\nTime passes...\n\nWhile you wait, you hear Big Ben strike each hour.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait until 12", "response": "[12:00]\n\nIt is 12:00 p.m. now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait until 2", "response": "[2:00]\n\nTime passes...\n\nIn the distance, you hear Big Ben strike the hour.\n\nDo you want to continue waiting?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Moriarty about the chase", "response": "I purloined the Crown Jewels at the request of a foreign government whose identity need not concern you. My clients care nothing about the Crown Jewels themselves - they wish only to undermine confidence in the British monarchy as a first step towards weakening and ultimately destroying the British Empire.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove hat", "response": "You take off your hat. Disconcerted by your sacrilegious action, Akbar averts his gaze. Inside you see an ampoule of etherium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Moriarty about the lair", "response": "\"Your lives and the fate of your precious monarchy hang in the balance, Doctor. Have you nothing better to do than to query me about the lair?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Moriarty about queen", "response": "\"A foolish old woman. Her empire deserves to fail.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Moriarty about the etherium", "response": "\"Your lives and the fate of your precious monarchy hang in the balance, Doctor. Have you nothing better to do than to query me about the ampoule of etherium?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the hat in the nose", "response": "You would have to take off your hat first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hat", "response": "You take off your hat. Disconcerted by your sacrilegious action, Akbar averts his gaze. Inside you see an ampoule of etherium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put hat in the nose", "response": "That's impossible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hold the nose", "response": "You take a deep breath. Holmes notices your action and surreptitiously does likewise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take ampoule", "response": "Moriarty's normally emotionless features dissolve in rage. He shouts at Akbar, \"Why didn't you take that from him when you brought him in?\"\n\nThe outburst startles Akbar into momentary inaction, but he quickly recovers and starts to come towards you with a violent look in his eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break ampoule", "response": "You break open the ampoule. The etherium is released into the room. You see everyone but Holmes pass out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You untie Holmes", "response": "You untie Holmes, keeping the rope.\n\nYou can't hold your breath much longer...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie Akbar to Moriarty", "response": "You tie Akbar to Moriarty.\n\nYour lungs scream for air. You take a deep breath.\n\nThe etherium knocks you out.\n\nYou awaken slowly and stumble to your feet. Moriarty and Akbar have already recovered, and they are struggling fiercely to free themselves. It seems as if you were unconscious for quite a while, but it's hard to tell. You probably don't have a lot of time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "TAKE KEY, JEWELS, WHISTLE", "response": "Moriarty's key: Taken.\nThe Crown Jewels: Taken.\n\n[Your score just went up by 10 points. The total is now 99 out of 100.]\nThe whistle: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake holmes", "response": "Holmes is already wide awake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the key", "response": "You unlock the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "When you emerge from the lair you are momentarily disoriented, blinking your eyes in the bright sunlight. After a few moments, you realize you are standing on London bridge, but you have no idea from which direction you came.\n\nThe detective trails along after you.\n\nYou notice that the sun has risen... as much as it ever does in England.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Palace", "response": "\"Right-o.\"\n\nThe cab speeds through the streets, deftly weaving in and out of the jubilee traffic and whizzing past famous landmarks. Only a few minutes later, you arrive at your destination.\n\nYou are in a cab outside the gate to Buckingham Palace.\n\nA Palace guard is here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show Jewels to guard", "response": "The Palace guard examines the regalia closely and then disappears inside the palace. Moments later, he reappears with the Prime Minister, who quickly ushers you and Holmes into the presence of the Queen.\n\nOvercome by emotion, for a few moments she says nothing. Finally she smiles and says, \"Once again, Mr Holmes, we find ourselves in your debt. Until now you have always refused our offers of gratitude. Do you intend to refuse your Queen yet again?\"\n\nHolmes returns her smile. \"I do, Your Majesty. But only because your thanks would be misdirected. It is Doctor Watson here who deserves your gratitude.\"\n\nThe Queen turns her gaze towards you. \"Indeed? And what reward would you ask of us, Doctor?\"\n\nFlustered, you stammer something about the service itself being reward enough, and before you know it you have been royally thanked and ushered back out of the palace into Queens Gardens. There, you and Holmes join the cheering multitudes who greet the Queen when, promptly at 9:00 and wearing the full regalia, she steps onto the balcony to begin the Coronation Day festivities.\n\n[Your score just went up by 1 point. The total is now 100 out of\n100.]\n\n[Your score is 100 out of 100, which earns you a ranking of Consulting Detective.]\n\nThe game is no longer afoot.\n\nDo you wish to: (1) Quit, (2) Restart, (3) Restore, (4) Hints, (5) Undo ?", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Surreal" ]

[ "based on opera", "based on songs", "cover art", "Don Juan", "horror", "male protagonist", "music", "music references", "party", "short", "song references", "They Might Be Giants", "violence", "Xyzzy Awards 2012" ]

[ 4, 10, 9, 4, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "John was already on his phone by the time you glanced over your shoulder. He had forgotten the whole joke; he wouldn't have noticed if you just turned around and walked back. Which you really wanted to do, for some reason.\n\nIt felt like a pretty stupid thing to be afraid of.\n\nYou got up the nerve to walk past the last few headstones, but you kept your head down. You didn't even want to look at the feet. You just kept your eyes on the pedestal, on the exact spot where you finally set down the envelope, and then you turned around.\n\nJohn was still talking to his phone, oblivious. You could feel it, though, like a finger lightly scraping up the back of your neck.\n\nAnd then jabbing into your spine so you had to turn back around and look up at its face. And you thought (right away you told yourself the idea was ridiculous) that it nodded.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "A disaster simulator by Ryan Veeder (with apologies to Johns L & F) \n\nThe kitchen, with all its drawers, its cupboards, its sinks and ovens, constitutes Chucky's domain, and he guards it jealously. Usually you use it only as a conduit between the dining room (south) and the tunnel to the cellar (down the stairs).\n\nOf course, working in here is part of your job, so you and Chucky have a deal worked out. The deal is: You do not touch anything.\n\nRight now is an exception, apparently.\n\n\"John wants you to take care of these,\" he squawks, thrusting a stack of cards toward you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cards", "response": "As you lean in for a closer look, Chucky draws back, repulsed by your intrusion of his personal space.\n\n\"Just take 'em, will ya?\" he growls. He shoves the stack into your hands and then turns to his cooking.\n\nThe papers are place cards, which are to be set out at the dinner table so everyone knows where to sit. The forms of the names are inconsistent: The men are \"John,\" \"Miles,\" \"Ivan,\" and \"Garry,\" but the women are \"Miss Idie\" and \"Miss O.\"\n\nBut that's not your problem. Your job is figuring out where to put these.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chucky", "response": "Chucky's teeth look like a cemetery built on some old marshland, his glass eye is not the same color as his real eye, and he smells like a butchery, but he is a phenomenal cook. Supposedly he used to be a chef in the White House.\n\nYou'd like to find out more about that, but Chucky isn't the kind of guy who likes to talk. To you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look extremely presentable in your \"B\" tuxedo: classy, but not too flashy; easy to ignore. Tuxedo B is the most appropriate for these intimate get-togethers with John's close friends. (\"Intimate\" is the word John uses for mixed groups; the parties to which only women are invited he calls \"friendly,\" and they require a different tuxedo.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stack of place cards", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the cards", "response": "The papers are place cards, which are to be set out at the dinner table so everyone knows where to sit. The forms of the names are inconsistent: The men are \"John,\" \"Miles,\" \"Ivan,\" and \"Garry,\" but the women are \"Miss Idie\" and \"Miss O.\"\n\nBut that's not your problem. Your job is figuring out where to put these.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cards", "response": "That's plainly inedible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the drawers", "response": "If you just stand around looking, Chucky will start getting surly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The sun is going down outside the western window, and the huge table, set for six, is aflame in the orange glow. An old portrait hangs on one wall, watching the proceedings with creepy indifference.\n\nThe kitchen is back north, the den is east from here, and a narrow door leads south to the foyer.\n\nSomebody jumps as you walk in. It's John's friend Garry, apparently startled by your entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the portrait", "response": "The frame on the north wall is too big to ignore, and the eyes of the portrait seem to follow you around.\n\nThis is supposed to be John's ancestor, an Old World nobleman, also named John. John has offered numerous anecdotes about the subject of the painting, many of them outlandish and contradictory, and you would be inclined to believe that really has no idea who this man is, if the family resemblence weren't so unnervingly clear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Garry about John", "response": "You open your mouth to speak to Garry at just the moment that he apparently gathers the courage to talk to you.\n\n\"Do you see that painting up there?\" he rasps, indicating the portrait on the north wall. \"Don't you think there's something messed up with that guy? He looks really judgmental, right? Like he's judging me. Or you.\"\n\nYou take a moment to formulate a diplomatic answer, but other thoughts distract you. Why, Garry, are you standing in here, away from the rest of the party, if you hate that painting so much? What is going on in your life that makes you worried that a painting is judging\nyou?\n\nGarry goes on without you. \"I don't like him. I feel like he's looking at me. You know what? When we sit down for dinner, try and make sure I'm sitting somewhere where I don't have to look at him. One of these two seats,\" he says. He points with a shaking hand at the two chairs on the north side of the table.\n\nYou nod.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the table", "response": "At other parties this table has comfortably seated more, but currently there are six high-backed chairs and six table settings: Two each on the north and south sides, one on the west end, and one at the east. This last one, on account of its facing the west wall, has the sunset shining straight at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Garry", "response": "Although lacking your boss's level of animal magnetism, Garry Horrible has charm and wit enough to make up for his unfortunate name. Most of the time.\n\nTonight, he looks like a nervous wreck. There are dark circles under his eyes; his breathing is too loud. His is not a demeanour appropriate to a dinner party.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get portrait", "response": "T? WHEN WE SiIt would be untoward to try rearranging the portrait while guests are over.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The sun is going down outside the western window, and the huge table, set for six, is aflame in the orange glow. An old portrait hangs on one wall, watching the proceedings with creepy indifference.\n\nThe kitchen is back north, the den is east from here, and a narrow door leads south to the foyer.\n\nGarry leans forward with both hands on the table, staring into the grain of the wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This room is well-loved by many of John's friends: from those he's brought home for the first time (because it is cozy and dimly lit) to frequent visitors (because they know there's booze in the credenza). The dining room is west; the parlor is south.\n\nCaptain Miles is here, lining up a shot at the pool table.\n\nIvan leans on his cue and regards the table with something like suspicion.\n\nAcross the room, fidgiting on a bar stool, is Miss Idie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Miles", "response": "THE WESTERN w\"Oh, there you are,\" says Miles as you approach. \"Listen, I don't know if you've decided who's sitting where for dinner. But I've been getting these real bad migraines lately.\"\n\nIvan looks up from the pool table. \"No kidding? I can give you something for that.\" He pulls a pad of paper from inside his jacket.\n\nMiles turns away from you and back toward Ivan. \"Well, I don't know for sure if they're migraines. I know that I'm really sensitive to light.\"\n\nIvan is already writing. \"Doesn't matter. How about codeine? You seem to me like a codeine kind of guy.\" He looks slantways at Miles for a moment, then goes back to scribbling. \"Yeah. Here you go. You can get this filled wherever.\"\n\nHe rips off the sheet and pushes it into Miles's hand. \"Thanks,\" Miles stutters, before he turns back to you.\n\n\"In the meantime I guess, I'm just saying, I'd rather not sit in that chair that's facing the window while the sun's going down.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Ivan", "response": "WESTERN W\"OhWhen Ivan sees you coming, he puts down his cue and takes you aside.\n\n\"Hey. So. I figure those cards you're carrying are for deciding the seating arrangement? For dinner? Pretty fancy.\" It is apparent from his breath that he has figured out the secret of the credenza.\n\n\"The thing is. There's two things. First thing is, that lady friend of John's. I don't want to sit next to her. She creeps me out. Second thing is, please don't put me next to...\" He's started whispering, and now he cranes his head around the room.\n\n\"You know who I'm talking about. She's a downer. I don't wanna sit next to her either. I don't know what Miles sees in her.\" He must mean Miss Idie.\n\n\"I mean, I know what he sees in her. Her mother has that publishing company. And both she and her mother have mitochondrial encephalomyopathy. I mean, look at her. She's like a stick. But with the publishing company, and she's gonna die young. So I can see why Miles would want to get in on that. But that's not really an option for me. So.\n\n\"Just, don't put me next to either of those women.\" And with that, he finally lets go of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Idie", "response": "DOWN OUTSIDeMiss Idie looks down at the cards in your hand. \"Oh yes, there's one thing you should know. I am left-handed.\"\n\nShe raises her left hand, by way of evidence.\n\n\"If you lack experience with left-handed people, of whom there are relatively few, you may not know about the problems that arise when a left-handed person sits to the right of a right-handed person at a meal. Their elbows often bump against each other. It can be very uncomfortable. If two left-handed people sit next to each other, of course, there is no problem. However, I am the only left-handed person here this evening. I have made sure to check. So please make sure that you do not place me with anyone sitting to my left. I would prefer to have someone sitting immediately to my right. If I am made to sit neighborless at the end of a table, I feel like a pariah, excluded from the group because of my unique needs.\n\n\"John, your employer, claims to be ambidextrous. However, ambidexterity is a myth. I am sure he has only really managed to use his left hand for specific tasks, and only with a great deal of training.\"\n\nShe pauses momentarily--not to let you get a word in edgewise, but to furrow her brow. \"I thought it was unusual that he would say that about himself. I find that most frivolous claims to ambidexterity are made by Orientals.\"\n\nWell, that certainly took a turn.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kiss idie", "response": "DON'T LIKeKeep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is your favorite room in the house. The décor is classy enough for guests to understand that they should avoid making a mess out of everything.\n\nThis is due in large part to the magnificent oriental rug, covering most of the floor, and the delicate sabicu coffee table. Both are in an impossibly pristine condition, capable of inspiring respect from the most boorish of John's associates.\n\nJohn is sitting in his favorite easy chair, smiling absentmindedly.\n\nAcross from him is Miss O, lounging on the couch as if it were a day bed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to John", "response": "John looks up at you and switches to a different, broader smile. \"Hey, everything going smoothly? Oh, you got the place cards. You know it doesn't matter to me, but you should probably go around and see if anyone has any weird preference about how they sit down. It doesn't matter to me, though, like I said.\n\n\"But, you know, Ondine here is the guest of honor, right?\" (Miss O touches her collarbone: Who, me?) \"So, I suppose she would\nlike to be seated to the right of the host. She's a classy lady; she notices that kind of thing.\"\n\nYou nod dutifully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Ondine", "response": "AND THE DELICAtMiss O raises a single finger, and shuts you up before you can start talking.\n\n\"Just a moment, John,\" she says. \"Your associate needs for me to cut off our conversation for a moment. I assume it's something important.\"\n\nShe turns to you. \"Is this about the seating arrangement of the meal? I hadn't bothered to give it any thought. Hmm.\"\n\nShe licks her lips.\n\n\"I suppose I don't have any strong preferences. I'd hate for any of my silly whims to contradict those of the other guests. But don't you think John should sit at the head of the table? I suppose that goes without saying. After all, you're our gracious host, aren't you?\"\n\nMiss O has directed this last sentence at John, apparently having decided she's wasted enough attention on you. You quietly step backward.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine john", "response": "ING.\n\nTYou've worked for John for so long that you can't decide what you think of him. Is his sarcasm grating, or is it charming? Is he really charming, or just handsome? Does he treat women like bite-sized Snickers because he loves them, or because he hates them?\n\nThen when he tilts his head, you realize: It's all confidence. He doesn't need to be handsome or charming. He's just confident.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cards", "response": "The papers are place cards, which are to be set out at the dinner table so everyone knows where to sit. The forms of the names are inconsistent: The men are \"John,\" \"Miles,\" \"Ivan,\" and \"Garry,\" but the women are \"Miss Idie\" and \"Miss O.\"\n\nBut that's not your problem. Your job is figuring out where to put these.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This room is well-loved by many of John's friends: from those he's brought home for the first time (because it is cozy and dimly lit) to frequent visitors (because they know there's booze in the credenza). The dining room is west; the parlor is south.\n\nCaptain Miles is here, lining up a shot at the pool table.\n\nIvan leans on his cue and regards the table with something like suspicion.\n\nAcross the room, fidgiting on a bar stool, is Miss Idie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Dining Room\nThe sun is going down outside the western window, and the huge table, set for six, is aflame in the orange glow. An old portrait hangs on one wall, watching the proceedings with creepy indifference.\n\nThe kitchen is back north, the den is east from here, and a narrow door leads south to the foyer.\n\nGarry leans forward with both hands on the table, staring into the grain of the wood.\n\nSuddenly you hear someone pounding on the front door, with the force and frequency of a lumberjack chopping at a tree trunk. Garry almost jumps out of his skin. \"They're coming after me!\" he squeaks.\n\nYou turn to answer the visitor, but through the narrow door you see John jumping up to beat you to it. You listen carefully for who it might be, but you can only barely hear John:\n\n\"Well, hello! Whoa, that's a cold handshake. I didn't expect you! I mean, I didn't expect you this late. Everyone else is already here. But I should have forseen you'd have trouble with transportation. Whatever. Come on in.\"\n\nYou hear a crunching sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn table", "response": "It walks in through the narrow door, stooping its head, sending splinters flying from the frame. It lifts its head (it looks at you) and almost touches the ceiling. It looks at Garry. Garry falls to his knees.\n\nJohn grins. \"Let me introduce you. Peter, this is my friend Garry. Garry, this is Peter. You remember Peter? Peter whose daughter I boned?\"\n\nGarry whimpers. John laughs.\n\n\"Anyway, he died, and this is a statue of him. He got up and walked here! Tell him why you're here, Pete.\"\n\nThe statue rumbles: ## Because you invited me.\n\n\"Yeah! I invited the statue to dinner! And he showed up!\" John raises his hands in the air and smirks triumphantly. He is not nearly as bothered by this situation as he should be.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "M John stops you. \"The cellar is through here,\" he says, pushing you into the kitchen.\n\nThe kitchen, with all its drawers, its cupboards, its sinks and ovens, constitutes Chucky's domain, and he guards it jealously. Usually you use it only as a conduit between the dining room (south) and the tunnel to the cellar (down the stairs).\n\nOf course, working in here is part of your job, so you and Chucky have a deal worked out. The deal is: You do not touch anything.\n\nChucky busies himself with some arcane cooking implements.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the key", "response": "This \"key\" is supposed to \"unlock\" the wine cellar. It is useless. The fiddly piece at the end is too big to fit in any keyhole; the flat piece at the other end is engraved with three symbols: A \"female\" sign (a circle with a cross sticking out of it), a curvy number 4, and a little devil's trident. They are the astronomical symbols for Venus, Jupiter, and Neptune. In that order. Venus Jupiter Neptune.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Tunnel\nTechnically this is more like an antechamber for the main cellar, but the room is longer than it is wide, and the ceiling is pretty low. Besides a boarded-up rathole, there's nothing to look at in here but the stairs up and the (infuriating) door in the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rathole", "response": "Those pests probably could chew through these boards if they really wanted, but they seem to have gotten the message and found someone else to harass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "(first opening the cellar door)\nThe door does not budge. You must not have the right combination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "This thing is ridiculous.\n\nThe corny combination lock on this door is supposed to keep intruders out of the cellar, protecting the most expensive wines and liquors. It cost thousands of dollars to commission and install. It is a stupid, gaudy piece of junk.\n\nThere are three dials. You just turn a dial, and it slides over to the next setting. Each dial has three settings. There are only twenty-seven combinations. Any thief could go through all of them in just a few minutes.\n\nThe left dial is marked with the astronomical symbols for Mercury, Venus, and Earth. It is currently pointing at Mercury.\n\nThe center dial has the symbols for Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. It is pointing at Mars.\n\nThe right dial has settings for Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The symbol for Pluto is the stupidest; it's just a combination of the letters P and L. The dial is currently set to Uranus.\n\nA simple padlock would be so much more effective. So much simpler.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the left dial to the venus", "response": "> TUNNEL\n\n> TECHNIcYou turn the left dial until it points at the symbol for Venus.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the middle dial to the jupiter", "response": "You turn the center dial until it points at the symbol for Jupiter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the right dial to the Neptune", "response": "You turn the right dial until it points at the symbol for Neptune.\n\nYou hear a scream upstairs. Someone must have just been introduced to Peter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first opening the cellar door)\nThe door swings open.\n\nJohn only buys the most expensive wines and spirits he can find. In the eyes of his friends, anyway, that makes him a conoisseur. This room isn't packed to the brim, but what it does contain is worth defending.\n\nA sickly red and yellow bottle lying on its side in the corner would seem to be the exception.\n\nNearby is a crate of a particular wine which John apparently thinks is worth saving for a special occasion.\n\nA crowbar leans against the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the crowbar", "response": "It's a crowbar, but you take it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "YOU TURN What is this swill doing here? How did it get past the security system? It probably belongs to Chucky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take bottle", "response": "You drop the crowbar so that you can carry the repellent bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the crowbar", "response": "You probably shouldn't leave the bottle lying around.\nYou happily discard your bottle, so as to carry the crowbar with both hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the crate with the crowbar", "response": "You stick the end of the crowbar under the lip of the crate and begin redistributing some force.\n\nYou hear a crunching sound. The dining room is right above you; that must be the statue moving around. The back of your neck tingles: it\ndid nod at you, back in the cemetery. How long has it been\nalive? Is it alive?\n\nYour leveraging efforts are rewarded: The nail in one corner of the lid pops up. Three to go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "You reposition yourself and stick the crowbar under the lid again.\n\nFrom upstairs: a shriek so shrill it could be steel rasping against glass, or a scream, or you don't know what. You should go up and make sure nobody's hurt.\n\nBut then you hear laughter. They're fine.\n\nA little more force, and the second nail comes out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "UnYou wedge in the crowbar again to tackle the third nail.\n\nNow you hear a low scraping, a scraping that can only be someone dragging those heavy dining room chairs over those gorgeous hardwood floors. Your lips twist in rage; you look at the nail and imagine it is Ivan's head.\n\nIt slides out of the crate with a pop. Just one more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "The last one should be easy. You slide in the crowbar...\n\nSuddenly the party upstairs is silent. No. Suddenly? It had been silent for a few seconds before you noticed anything. Or maybe it's not silent. You can hear something rustling. Or is that just people talking?\n\nYou strain to listen, but then all you can hear is your own heartbeat.\n\nThe last nail slides out, and the whole lid slides away. You drop your crowbar and pull out a bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bottle", "response": "Which do you mean, the bottle of Prévenge or the bottle of Thunderbird?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Thunderbird", "response": "You regard the bottle with disgust. You couldn't possibly serve it to the guests. Maybe you could use it to kill a houseplant.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the prevenge", "response": "(the bottle of Prévenge)\nYou had the pleasure of experiencing Prévenge at the same tasting where John decided he had to buy several crates. It's nothing special.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink Thunderbird", "response": "You don't have a corkscrew handy, which is just as well. Just the fumes off of this stuff could be hazardous to your health.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of Prévenge\na bottle of Thunderbird\nan ornate key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the prevenge", "response": "(the crate of Prévenge)\nTaking the entire crate upstairs would be too much--no matter\nwho is visiting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bottle of the prevenge", "response": "You'd better not leave the bottle here; John is expecting you to come back with some liquid.\nYou cannot gracefully carry two wine bottles at once. You drop the other bottle in favor of the Prévenge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Technically this is more like an antechamber for the main cellar, but the room is longer than it is wide, and the ceiling is pretty low. Besides a boarded-up rathole, there's nothing to look at in here but the stairs up and the (infuriating) door in the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rathole", "response": "PLEASURE OF eYou can't save it. You have to escape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the prevenge", "response": "You'd better not leave the bottle here; John is expecting you to come back with some liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "John only buys the most expensive wines and spirits he can find. In the eyes of his friends, anyway, that makes him a conoisseur. This room isn't packed to the brim, but what it does contain is worth defending.\n\nNearby is a crate of a particular wine which John apparently thinks is worth saving for a special occasion.\n\nYou can also see a crowbar here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the crowbar", "response": "You'd better not leave the bottle here; John is expecting you to come back with some liquid.\nYou happily discard your bottle, so as to carry the crowbar with both hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "John only buys the most expensive wines and spirits he can find. In the eyes of his friends, anyway, that makes him a conoisseur. This room isn't packed to the brim, but what it does contain is worth defending.\n\nNearby is a crate of a particular wine which John apparently thinks is worth saving for a special occasion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bottle of the prevenge", "response": "You'd better not leave the bottle here; John is expecting you to come back with some liquid.\nYou cannot gracefully carry two wine bottles at once. You drop the other bottle in favor of the Prévenge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of Prévenge\na crowbar\na bottle of Thunderbird\nan ornate key", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Kitchen\nWhere's Chucky? It looks like he left in a hurry.\n\nThere seems to be something happening down in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Everything is on fire. The floor is burning and the walls are burning and the table looks like a big bonfire; all the settings are twinkling in the light of the flames. The room is rapidly filling with smoke.\n\nCaptain Miles seems to be nursing one of his migraines.\n\nMiss Idie is sitting on the floor, staring into the blaze of the table.\n\nWould you stop that? There are people watching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the smoke", "response": "Smoke is rapidly filling the room, but for now you seem to be able to breathe.\n\nWould you stop that? There are people watching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Idie about the fire", "response": "Hope looks up at you and begins pulling off one of her legs.\n\n\"I've been informed that I should feel some remorse over my opinions on the Asian race,\" she says. She throws her leg onto the burning table and begins removing one of her arms.\n\n\"If all I have to do is apologize, then I apologize. There.\" She tosses the arm into the flames and gets to work pulling off the other arm.\n\nHer expression changes: she glares at you as if in warning. \"I am being compelled to apologize against my will. None of this is sincere; I'm just acting this out to make him happy.\" She jerks her head backward, toward the narrow door. \"I don't know how he's doing it. They're crafty that way. But why am I going on like this?\"\n\nShe throws her other arm and leg onto the fire glumly. \"There's not much I can do about it now.\"\n\nShe throws the rest of herself onto the fire, and in an instant the heat shrivels her like a plastic bag.\n\nHave you been paying any attention? At all?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Miles", "response": "Miles looks at you through his fingers, still rubbing his head. \"Oh, there you are,\" he says.\n\nHis fingers are skeleton bones instead of fingers. \"I'm supposed to say something, so I'll say it to you. The thing I'm supposed to say is, I'm sorry.\"\n\nNow the skin and muscle is gone from his face. \"Not sure what I'm supposed to be sorry about. It's really hot in here, and it's hard to think. Maybe I'm supposed to be sorry about Hope, you know.\"\n\nHis face comes back for a second so he can squint in frustration. \"That's a complicated thing to be sorry for. But the other stuff I did, I don't want to admit to doing. So I'll go with that.\"\n\nHe nods his skull a couple times, then his skeleton falls apart and burns up.\n\nNo. I don't care anymore. Do what you want.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Everything is on fire. The floor is burning and the walls are burning and the table looks like a big bonfire; all the settings are twinkling in the light of the flames. The room is rapidly filling with smoke.\n\nDo you really need me to tell you this?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the Thunderbird on the fire", "response": "You can't even remember if you're still carrying it.\n\nWhat are you trying to tell me? No. Forget it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the prevenge on the fire", "response": "You can't even remember if you're still carrying it.\n\nHave you been paying any attention? At all?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of Prévenge\na crowbar\na bottle of Thunderbird\nan ornate key\n\nAnd if it doesn't matter to you, then it doesn't matter at\nall?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink Thunderbird", "response": "You don't have a corkscrew handy, which is just as well. Just the fumes off of this stuff could be hazardous to your health.\n\nYou do not talk to me that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sorry", "response": "Oh, don't apologise.\n\nNo, you listen to me. I'm tired of this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "You hear nothing unexpected.\n\nYou wanna let me finish?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nYou do not talk to me that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.\n\nThis is serious. Do you think I'm kidding?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "T (first opening the narrow door)\nThe door is engulfed in flames, impossible to pass.\n\nDo you really need me to tell you this?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The door to the foyer is blocked. The only way out is east.\n\nI'm done with this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The fire has already spread through here; it's climbing up the sides of the pool table and the credenza.\n\nThe elephant foot umbrella stand is here.\n\nAcross from him is Miss O, lounging on the couch as if it were a day bed.\n\nIvan is leaning on a bar stool, apparently standing only with great effort.\n\nYou wanna let me finish?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stand", "response": "It must have walked here by itself; it's too heavy to be carried.\n\nI've had enough of this attitude.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Miss O.", "response": "Miss O hobbles over to you as fast as she can.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" she gasps. \"I'm sorry.\" She reaches to touch your face, but her arm suddenly swings wildly.\n\nIt is made of wood. You can see the veins of the grain working their way up to her head.\n\n\"I think this might be ironic,\" she rasps. But now her head is made of wood, and now she's on fire, and now she is a pile of ashes.\n\nDo you really need me to tell you this?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Ivan", "response": "LE TO PASS.\n\nThe doctor wobbles, then topples; he manages to save himself by falling backward on the pool table.\n\n\"I am having an epiphany. Right now I am realizing that I am basically a drug dealer,\" he says. \"Because I never stop hooking these people up with their pills. I mean addicts. They're not people, they're addicts.\"\n\nHis spine falls out of his back, and he flops to the floor.\n\nHis eyes widen: he has had another epiphany. \"That was a terrible thing to say,\" he gurgles. \"I'm sorry.\"\n\nHe tries to curl up in a fetal position against a leg of the table, but the table rears back in disgust and stomps him out like an insect.\n\nI'm done with this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The couch and chair are being rapidly consumed by flames; the rug is almost completely gone.\n\nYou can hear people yelling in the foyer to the west.\n\nGarry lies on the coffee table, his eyes closed, his feet hanging off the end awkwardly.\n\nI'm done with this.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Garry", "response": "\"I did something bad,\" he mumurs, without opening his eyes. \"I took something that didn't belong to me.\"\n\nHe grimaces. \"I stole from my office. I stole a chair.\"\n\nYou roll your eyes.\n\n\"But I don't deserve a chair. Even the electric chair is too good for me. The statue has come to punish me, and I'll wait here for him to do what he will. After he gets done with John.\" He takes a deep breath.\n\n\"Message repeats. I did something bad. I took something that didn't belong to me.\" Oh, for Pete's sake.\n\nI've had enough of this attitude.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Garry", "response": "He's holding your lilies over his chest. He's sweating all over, but there's a smile on his face.\n\nDon't think for a minute you're getting away with anything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake up", "response": "The dreadful truth is, this is not a dream.\n\nNo. I don't care anymore. Do what you want.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "You aren't feeling especially drowsy.\n\nDo you really need me to tell you this?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink crowbar", "response": "There's nothing suitable to drink here.\n\nDon't think for a minute you're getting away with anything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You've almost escaped. The front door is to the south.\n\nJohn is sitting in one of the high-backed chairs. The one next to him is empty.\n\nThe statue is here.\n\nThe wall clock is on the floor, shattered.\n\nThe statue rumbles: ## Repent.\n\nJohn sighs in exasperation. \"I already told you, man. I'm sorry for murdering you. I mean, killing you. In self-defense. It was a wrong place, wrong time kind of thing.\"\n\nRepent. roars the statue, and a wave of heat rolls out of it like a sonic boom.\n\n\"No! I said already! Already I told you this! I cannot apologize for screwing your daughter. I have to be true to myself, man.\"\n\nBut you must-- the statue attempts, but John is on a roll.\n\n\"And what myself is, is, a lover. Of ladies. You can't take that away from me. And I can't apologize for that. I mean, I can, but I'm not gonna.\"\n\nThe statue creaks. It turns toward you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit John", "response": "You.\n\nIt points at the chair next to John. ## It is your turn. Sit. Join your master.\n\n\"Oh, hey!\" Now John notices you. \"Look, this guy wants us to apologize for all the terrible stuff we did. I don't know if it's a religious thing, or if he's just angsty about being dead, or what. Either way, we're gonna burn to death, so...\"\n\nSit, insists the statue.\n\nYou're not listening. You're not listening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to John", "response": "\"Nothing right now, thanks,\" John says, keeping his eyes on Miss O. \"Remember, though, about the guest of honor, on the host's right.\"\n\nSit, and repent. The statue seems to want to throw you bodily into\nthe chair.\n\n\"Come on!\" cries John. \"Let's get this over with!\"\n\nHave you been paying any attention? At all?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "What do you want to sit on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the chair", "response": "You sit down next to John. The statue looks at you. The flames rise.\n\nJohn leans back and smiles: his body turns into a pile of ashes. Then yours does too; then the chairs, and then the rest of the house. Everything is gone, except the statue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You must name something more substantial.\n\nThe statue and John both regard you expectantly. The fire is spreading.\n\nNo. We're not finished.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "But you aren't in anything at the moment.\n\nThe statue and John both regard you expectantly. The fire is spreading.\n\nThis is serious. Do you think I'm kidding?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the front door", "response": "The statue and John both regard you expectantly. The fire is spreading.\n\nI'm done with this.\n\nThe door isn't on fire, yet; outside is the lawn, and safety.\n\nThe statue and John both regard you expectantly. The fire is spreading.\n\nThis is serious. Do you think I'm kidding?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open front door", "response": "As you open the door, cool night air rushes in from outside. If John or the statue reacts, you don't know; they are behind you.\n\nThe statue and John both regard you expectantly. The fire is spreading.\n\nYou're not listening. You're not listening.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Lawn\nYou run out across the lawn: you fall on your face in the grass before you reach the street.\n\nBut you're safe. It's dark out here, and cold, and the guests and John and the statue are all behind you. You lie in the grass and breathe in huge gulps as the screaming fire engine sirens fill the air.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "cover art", "female protagonist", "IFComp 2015", "IFComp Game", "keyword parser", "multiple endings", "present tense", "puzzleless", "second person", "slice of life", "Xyzzy Awards 2015", "XYZZY Best Use of Innovation" ]

[ 5, 4, 8, 3, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "This piece contains language and other mature themes.\n\nDo you wish to continue (Y / N)?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Please choose one of the following options:\n\nAbout (recommended for first-timers) : A\nStart : (SPACE)\nQuit : Q", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You keep going", "response": "down. - Stina Nordenstam, \"Memories of a Colour\"It was still\nmonths before we'd tell each other our stories. And even then some seemed too small to bother with. So why do they come back to me now? Now, when I'm so weary of all of it. - Jenny Offill, Dept. of Speculation", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "A story, eventually; by Katherine Morayati\n\nStudio 4D, 7:00 pm\n\nAn afterimage is a visual left lingering before your eyes, after\nyou've focused on one thing too long; burnt-out retinae, producing bullshit. If you've seen red you produce un-red; blue, un-blue;\ngreen, un-green. An involuntary strike. The state is not permanent, until it is.\n\nYour primary project at Synfac was developing wearables. But your\nlast project was sentiment analysis. Intern work. Your job\nwas to mine influential tweeters, popular song, emails and letters and texts acquired for you by means you'd rather not consider, for the\noily stuff of emotion. This was supposed to focus you. Instead you're now a broke computer, made of errors: tweet fragments, disheveled paragraphs, bastardized sentiment. You have no sentences, just quips; no thoughts, only responses. Here is one:\n\nLaid off from the synesthesia factory. Branded a fool. What will\nthey say, Monday at --\n\nYou have gotten no further. There is no rhyme to what you do now. And at any rate, your concern is not Monday at whenever the hell. Your concern is tonight at 8 PM.\n\n* * *\n\nSynfac originally hired you as a copywriter, then promoted you to amorphous creative, then gradually demoted you once they detected a lack of actual creating. This was not in the plan; you took the job a year ago knowing headquarters were far from any robust job market. It was less a move than a trust fall.\n\nTo compensate, Synfac put you up in a company apartment and paid the first month's rent. Nothing extravagant, of course: a studio, slightly under market rate but of course not free; a bit over-sparsely furnished, as if they'd rented the unit expecting a bachelor; full to distraction with Synfac technology, to remind you that the space was meant for after-hours research. Even the unit number was deliberate,\nas explained to you on day one: Studio 4D, the fourth dimension. Which is time, of which you now have an abundance.\n\nYou've got to admire how legit it all was: standard real estate company, standard contract and standard lease, and this year's lease doesn't end until December. Optimism: You get to stay here even after your layoff. Pessimism: You must.\n\nWithout your Synpiece with you, the room is blank and chilly, less modern design than empty ice tray. Everything is some form of inert gray: dormant green-screen wall paneling, dresser practically frozen shut, desk a little more cluttered these days but as desks go still austere. Only your saturator pole seems obviously amiss.\n\n* * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You're wearing a ratty cotton dress. A lifetime of possessions has left you with this.\n\n* * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dress", "response": "You've worn this ratty dress since Friday night: a billowing tarpish thing, colors dulled, holes in the hem. Dress as metaphor. Fortunately for you, this metaphor is easily revised.\n\n* * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Revise", "response": "Your first thought: to check your computer. This is in fact your default thought; give it five years and it'll have your cortex and\nalso your amygdala. \"Thought\" is the wrong word. What it is: now your core creature drive. Ancient drives: hunger, exhaustion, libido. And their modern replacements: refreshing, unplugging, FOMO.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Refresh", "response": "Your next thought: How you have managed such disarray in a week's\nspan. You feel as if you have been dropped into a spot-the-difference picture, the kind from a children's whodunnit book, where you are expected to solve the mystery of how you murdered your life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unplug", "response": "What do you want to unplug?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dresser", "response": "You consider changing your outfit. You were never extravagant with fashion. The idea of a uniform appeals: wearable anonymity, no skin, signals or stories. But none of that is accepted in women, not even in tech, not even the temperamentally private. And you have been told you have more of a story to tell. And anyway, even a uniform would take up space. So now you have a dresser full of clothes reserved for special occasions, which you suppose tonight is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the dresser", "response": "You open your dresser and clothes drool out. This is a new pattern: carefully stacked and folded clothes on the bottom, tossed and crammed clothes on top. Like tree rings for your employment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clothes", "response": "Every outfit betrays you in some way. Now you wear: A simple cotton dress, dully, subtly polka-dotted. Appropriate age: late thirties, or forties, or at least fully grown up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Your apartment, in theory: A neutral base to practice and study this business of feelings with no interference; decor would be a stain,\nlife a confounding variable. This translates in design to\n\"minimalism,\" which is appealing enough. But your apartment, in practice: The usual ecru hamster-box with every serviceable white, frosty or clear item of furniture you or Brian found within a fifty-mile radius. The bed was from a prefab catalog; the desk was forgotten in the corner of a Methodist thrift store; the kitchen is like all kitchens are; the shelves, you are certain, were literally cubicles once.\n\n* * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shelves", "response": "The bookshelves, as described: An aspirational perk, the mark of creatives, suitable for picturesque libraries arranged in rainbow colors. Bookshelves, as supplied: Gray plastic overstock from the office, suitable for cubicles and other modular stacking. Upshot:\nUnder palatial office sun or a Synpiece lens, they shine. Pessimism:\nIn any other circumstances they suck away vibes. And here you have no Synpiece, no office, and no good vibes. A while back you arranged some books and knickknacks and old photos about the shelves. Only the\nphotos help, and only to a point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine books", "response": "After taking the Synfac job you bought every design, programming and theory tome you'd ever seen namedropped in a blog post or heard in a colleague's half mention. You'd built up quite the impressive library, even arranged it all by color (if anyone earned the right, you did). What you didn't do: ever read them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine photo", "response": "Which do you mean, the office photo, the cuddling photo, the third photo or the photos?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the office photo", "response": "You remember this. You took it the first day on the job, about a month into dating, which naturally bound job and relationship into one unit, a synchronized squad cheering on your self-improvement. It seems a lot more unfortunate in retrospect.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cuddling", "response": "You'd driven into the city to visit him at the park, which seemed a little silly given the surfeit of parklike stuff in your own neighborhood, but it turned out rather nice. Off camera, you remember, there were babies. You recall thinking it was too early on to safely coo over babies in his presence, but nothing felt wrong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Third photo", "response": "This photo was early on, obviously. At Lurie Lake near the old power plant. Some abandoned building at some late hour, lit by artificial\nred flash. From a car, maybe. Or strobes off a far-off arena. Nothing you could have planned. You are in purple and besotten.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "cheapglulxe quit with exit status: 0", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "This piece contains coarse language and mature themes.\n\nDo you wish to continue (Y / N)?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "Please choose one of the following options:\n\nAbout (recommended for first-timers) : A\nStart : (SPACE)\nQuit : Q\nI'm searching for a colour, don't think it's got a name. It's\nsomething between pink and brown -- just like when the sun sets, sometimes when it rains, like it's the first time you see it go\ndown. - Stina Nordenstam, \"Memories of a Colour\"\ndown. - Stina Nordenstam, \"Memories of a Colour\"To become\nfluent, natural, to cut out the detour that sweeps us around what's fundamental to events, preventing us from touching their core: the detour that makes us all second-hand and second-rate. - Tom\nMccarthy, Remainder\nMccarthy, RemainderIt was still months before we'd tell\neach other our stories. And even then some seemed too small to bother with. So why do they come back to me now? Now, when I'm so weary of\nall of it. - Jenny Offill, Dept. of Speculation\nLaid Off from the Synesthesia Factory\nA story, eventually; by Katherine Morayati\n\nStudio 4D, 7:00 pm\n\nAn afterimage is a visual left lingering before your eyes, after\nyou've focused on one thing too long; burnt-out retinae, producing bullshit. If you've seen red you produce un-red; blue, un-blue;\ngreen, un-green. An involuntary strike. The state is not permanent, until it is.\n\nYour primary project at Synfac was developing wearables. But your\nlast project was sentiment analysis. Intern work. Your job\nwas to mine influential tweeters, popular song, emails and letters and texts acquired for you by means you'd rather not consider, for the\noily stuff of emotion. This was supposed to focus you. Instead you're now a broke computer, made of errors: tweet fragments, disheveled paragraphs, bastardized sentiment. You have no sentences, just quips; no thoughts, only responses. Here is one:\n\nLaid off from the synesthesia factory. Branded a fool. What will\nthey say, Monday at --\n\nYou have gotten no further. There is no rhyme to what you do now. And at any rate, your concern is not Monday at whenever the hell. Your concern is tonight at 8 PM.\n\n* * *\n\nSynfac originally hired you as a copywriter, then promoted you to amorphous creative, then gradually demoted you once they detected a lack of actual creating. This was not in the plan; you took the job a year ago knowing headquarters were far from any robust job market. It was less a move than a trust fall.\n\nTo compensate, Synfac put you up in a company apartment and paid the first month's rent. Nothing extravagant, of course: a studio, slightly under market rate but of course not free; a bit over-sparsely furnished, as if they'd rented the unit expecting a bachelor; full to distraction with Synfac technology, to remind you that the space was meant for after-hours research. Even the unit number was deliberate,\nas explained to you on day one: Studio 4D, the fourth dimension. Which is time, of which you now have an abundance.\n\nYou've got to admire how legit it all was: standard real estate company, standard contract and standard lease, and this year's lease doesn't end until December. Optimism: You get to stay here even after your layoff. Pessimism: You must.\n\nWithout your Synpiece with you, the room is blank and chilly, less modern design than empty ice tray. Everything is some form of inert gray: dormant green-screen wall paneling, dresser practically frozen shut, desk a little more cluttered these days but as desks go still austere. Only your saturator pole seems obviously amiss.\n\n* * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Panelling", "response": "Your first thought: to check your computer. This is in fact your default thought; give it five years and it'll have your cortex and\nalso your amygdala. \"Thought\" is the wrong word. Something closer: anymore, your core creature drive.\n\nThe original creature drives: hunger, exhaustion, libido. And their modern replacements: refreshing, unplugging, FOMO.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Desk", "response": "Rudimentary method of painting a fresco: Find a blank surface, preferably white. Apply paint on top; let it turn to sediment. Apply more paint on top of the hardened old paint. Repeat until you have produced a thick pile of texture and art. Now, subtract all the art. What remains is what has happened to your desk in the days since it happened.\n\nYour computer sits idle. Your severance papers are where you left\nthem. So is your old keycard. And check stubs and seltzer cans, clutter on and all around it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine papers", "response": "You have looked at your severance agreement exactly twice. It is printed on chipper iridescent letterhead with a color-wheel stamp, and it tells you in lawyerspeak to go fuck yourself. Also: They'll give\nyou four weeks' severance, if you never admit to it. And: You may not say what they did to you. You've broken this clause with your mother and therapist already. By tonight you'll break it with Brian (or worse). Perhaps you're breaking it now in your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Brian", "response": "What Brian is: A man you used to know. Deflatingly human when you're with him, horribly beguiling when you're not. It wasn't enough for him to finagle his way into every memory of every item in your home; you can't stop documenting everything about him on top of that -- all your old emails, all your texts, the whole corpus of it.\n\nWhat Brian also is: a person you dumped in a rambling email and then tentatively un-dumped in another, in less than a 24-hour span. While you're being honest..", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Email", "response": "What do you want to email?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Clothes", "response": "Every outfit betrays you in some way. Now you wear: Black-and-white work skirt, black shell. Unremarkably put-together. You'd wear it on a job interview if you had one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Walls", "response": "detect that color best. Your apartment is not green because humans\nalso detect the color, quite emphatically, usually when trying to sleep. But \"green screen\" is the best term anyone came up with for\nwhat your apartment has got: panels -- floor-to-ceiling each, so no room for other decorations -- that display images that change the feel of a room. The idea was from f.lux, the endgame probably to show or at least enhance ads, and the technology from Disney cruise ships. Presumably the makers did not visit CruiseCritic.com, which you did\nand found tourists complaining about the glitches jerking and fritzing their way down the promenade of their \"virtual balconies.\"\n\nThese, too, are currently glitchy; they're supposed to work in tandem with the Synpiece and saturator, but never quite pick up either's signal, like a radio skipping stations. Even when they work they just sort of change the room's paint job.\n\nA disconcerting feeling while alone: realizing you are surrounded by screens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Saturator", "response": "The existence of such a thing called a \"saturator pole\" is of course a blunder. One of the code-dwellers uttered the words \"responsive\ndesign\" in range of someone whose earshot was triply unfortunate: someone wonky enough to pay attention to programmers, pretentious enough to wonk over monochrome design publications, and executive enough to wrench his pretentions into an official pivot. Thus rose, like a techy Tower of Babel, the Saturator, which (the pitch goes) detects your emotional undercurrent -- your presence, basically -- and infuses the room with simpatico ambience and portent, like an air freshener for mood. (The original tagline said \"incense for mood,\" but marketing thought that sounded too hippie, someone higher-up and unbuttoned asked whether there was a type of incense not for\nmood, and thence went the afternoon.)\n\nIt took another month of meetings to persuade legal to have one installed in your apartment, a month you regretted once the prototype came in: a Super Mario-esque monstrosity that protruded horizontally over the bed and across the room, like a fluorescent light if those were large and killed you if you woke up wrong. You bitched, others bitched, and from the bitching came the current model: a vertical pole where a heating pipe would be, slender, slightly gnarled and ending in a broad starburst two feet from the ceiling. It pulses with a deep unidentifiable color; in about a three-centimeter radius surrounding the pole are cilia of iridescent light. You think it resembles a maypole. Everyone else who's ever been in your place thinks stripper pole. At one point that was funny.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Saturator", "response": "Marketing never settled on one metaphor for the saturator pole. Guy\nwho spent half of the workday moonlighting for his progressive rock band: \"It's like an amplifier. Except it amplifies you!\"\nWoman you are uncertain has left her teens yet: \"Like an Instagram filter, except, like, permanent?\" Guy about town: \"Like catching feelings. Ugh.\" Suit from some mysterious corner office: \"It could collect user data if it's on long enough.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Experience feels", "response": "You consider PR. The problem: to succeed in doing PR for others you must first prove you've succeeded in doing PR for yourself. You must turn all the glop that is you into a tantalizing direct-to-consumer product, call it Aspirational You. Aspirational You is something special. Aspirational You does not evaporate or sweat under heat; she solidifies, like a cake. If she were knifed the blade would come out clean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You email brian", "response": "For a few months your job was to distill all the history of color psychology into meeting length. Most color psychology is not really psychology, but Synfac's competitors, at least in their outward-facing materials, seem to work with the rigorous material of \"vibes\" and \"moods,\" so your layperson's stab was fine.\n\nOne system: the Luscher Color Test, in vogue a few decades ago but now usurped by the MMPI and Big Five. The Synpiece's underlying color\nmodel is only slightly altered from it: orange for force, blue a sort of pristine placidity, purple surrender.\n\nor bastardized by a proto-Buzzfeed quiz site. Bunk, obviously, but\nalso sideways genius. Its makers found something unexploited: the\nForer effect for those prone to self-loathing, i.e. half the Internet.\n\nWhat you are, uncharitably: \"Looking to stand out in the crowd and wanting to keep her rank and status. Her current situation is irritating her because she can't seem to find anybody out there who values the same high standards she does. She is feeling isolated and wants to give in to her carnal urges, but can't bring herself to\nappear weak in the eyes of others.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Email", "response": "What do you want to email?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Message", "response": "Every phobia has two parts. There is the phobia itself. Then there is the meta-phobia: the fear that no one takes your fear seriously.\n\nOne known phobia: scopophobia, the fear of being watched. According to psychiatric journal The Alienist and Neurologist, published\nin 1906, scopophobia is most common in women. This is not elaborated further.\n\nYou are at your computer. The top Google results for scopophobia and women: 1. Wikipedia. 2. An online store of graphic tees for women: devils, evil eyes, glitterfied fear slogans, figures dripping with viscera. All form-fitting, naturally. 3. Something from something called the Creepypasta Wiki: \"Do they see a monster wrapped delicately within glittering wrapping paper? Do they see malice hidden within me or do they see an ingenue?\" There are comments on this. They gave this scopophobia an 8 out of 10.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the walls", "response": "You and Brian had a joke that next April Fool's Day you were going to break into whoever at the Synpiece office manages this stuff and show hapless users just whatever the fuck. \"Maybe those screamer videos,\" Brian said when he first got the idea. \"Or stop-motion! You know, like the super-slow kind that only moves when you're not looking?\" He could go on for hours like this, kitten-quick, drawing in energy from something vital and wonderful that has nothing to do with you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Esk", "response": "Everything here is contaminated by memories. Like when Brian set all the wall panels to a stop-motion sequence of photos of the two of you. Or the time he stopped by when you were calibrating the saturator\npole. (\"Calibrating the saturator pole\" sounds like a bad joke. You know this because he made it.) You'd hoped to climb it, but that failed. So you'd stood tippy-toes on a footstool he bought weeks ago, monitoring every gradual shade of mood; he'd distract you the whole time, blowing up clouds of dust, performing little fireman flourishes by the base, pretending to spot you then grabbing you by the waist pretending to be King Kong.\n\nThe goal was to make you smile for once. Or so he said. You don't remember whether you did. What you remember: the air was tinged yellow-gray.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Desk", "response": "Even the slighest glance at your computer compels you to check it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Computer", "response": "Optimism: You never much used the laptop they gave you, meaning you\nare now merely underemployable, not underemployable and computerless. Pessimism: Which means you did all your work on your own machine,\nwhich means now your work space has permanently squatted upon your\nhome space. Like a snake still in its shouldabeenshed skin. It isn't even a good or fast computer anymore. If you were a snake you'd be the overgrown eldritch kind.\n\nYou have only two windows somehow: browser, email client. It would be admirable organization, were your screen not covered in sticky notes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Notes", "response": "Mouldy headline from a productivity bloglet: to-do lists are out, clogging your computer screen in obtrusive to-do stickies is in. What the headline did not say: humans are resourceful and can learn to kind of stick them down the sides.\n\nThere are four, jaggedly written. Manila notes down the left side: CHECK EMAIL FROM COLORBUZZ; FILE YOUR DAMN SEVERANCE PAPERS ALREADY\nYOU CRETIN. Rouge notes down the right: GUESS WHAT ROSLYN YOU'VE\nSTOLEN A SYNPIECE!!; BRIAN, LURIE LAKE, 8 PM. ?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lurie lake", "response": "There is a photo of you and Brian at Lurie Lake, by the power plant when dusk turns the sky auburn, where you look all right. You look\nlike an object of love. And you never figured out how you did it.\n\nSomehow it is 7:20. If you don't leave now, you never will. There is\nno plan that cannot be expedited by agonizing over it.\n\nYou get in your car and drive into the dark.\n\n* * * * *\n* * * * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Keep going", "response": "Lurie Lake is five minutes outside the city, which translates to\ntwenty minutes from your apartment, or ten the way you are driving.\nYou are reasonably sure this is where you are still heading.\n\n* * *\n\nYour car is a mess, but you still notice it immediately: your\nSynpiece, on the floor by the backseat, right where you left it.\n\nYou had to put that thing somewhere hard to reach; to the dismay of your coworkers with road rage, driving while augmented is not recommended. Everyone with a prototype got a huge warning saying so. Reason one: Driving with a Synpiece, depending on its calibration, falls somewhere between driving to a particularly nocturnal soundtrack and driving while high. Reason two: It does things to you. If you're commuting you'll wish you weren't. If you're driving past an\nex-lover's house you'll perhaps drive toward it. If you're driving in\na subdivision it'll seem impossibly hushed, the particular intimacy of suburban stillness; every house will suggest things that happen behind its closed doors.\n\nFunny how you still believe that warning.\n* * *\n\n* * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear Synpiece", "response": "(first taking the Synpiece)\nYou slip the Synpiece into your left eye. It doesn't behave like a contact lens exactly. Not hard enough. Presumably safer. You have sussed out the precise feeling: it feels like a pat of butter to the cornea. In the sense that it is cold, you mean. But also in the sense that it melts.\n\nUndocumented steps to get this thing to actually work: 1. Caress the eyelids to gently nudge the Synpiece into position. (1.5. Pull over, are you thinking?.) 2. Cup your eye sockets in your fingers,\nlike you're in a horror movie and will shortly produce their contents. 3. Close your eyes tight. 4. Meditate, or breathe controlledly, or if it's you think upon your unsuitability to do either. Just at any rate pause. This sort of breathing produces a tremor, which is normal. 5. Imagine you will open your eyes and the world has changed. You need\nnot imagine your actual surroundings. In fact, it's better if you don't. Imagine an executioner's blade at your neck. Or autumn's first windowful of snow. The point is not what to expect; the point is\nto expect. 6. Open.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "* * *\n* * *Now I am night driving. Now I tilt my head back and fill myself with breeze. Now there is something like a sunset. Now the radio darkens its key. Now the road arches its lanes in front of me; and now the road curls its lanes behind me.\n\nI can't see the Synpiece while it's on. He told me I'd go cross-eyed wearing it. It's more that everything looks closer than I know it is.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive", "response": "Now the moon in the sky dips down into my car with every ripple in the road.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Brian", "response": "What Brian is: not the sum of his traits. Five-foot-six, thatch of hair, perpetually bemused expression, limbs goofy like a scarecrowThat's all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yourself", "response": "At this hour through headlights, the trees on the highway look like they're a movie scene. I know the kind: damp fetid cedar, rainymood lighting, lovers thrust forward into tree trunks and downward into needles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drive", "response": "Glimpse of a sign: Exit 49, turn right. Lurie Lake is Exit 51. Not\nlong to go.\n\nI hear somebody else's radio through my own car. They seem to be listening to how strobe lights sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "The way I'm driving, the car sounds about to fall apart.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "Now I am tailing their car like a wolf. Now their music is louder and someone is howling in it. I imagine an entire pursuit narrative in their head. And I imagine their head must be nice to get into.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "There are seven ways to turn into the city. What a sad person I would be to take advantage of any of them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lake", "response": "Now the buildings are growing tall and thrusting against the horizon; now the traffic swells to meet it; now I feel perfectly small.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Continue", "response": "Now I am clear to the shore of the lake. Everything is jagged like lightning or a fence. And I am alone.\n\nI exit my car like a queen enters her chambers. Then I approach the station like a supplicant approaches her liege: tiny, wrapped in\nautumn space. Now I'm walking slow; now I'm walking fast.\n\nThe lake shore is steps away from me to the north; perhaps I'll have company there.\n* * *\n\n* * *\n\nThere was an explosion at the plant a few years back: no casualties, just smoke and burnt-fire sky. It is a terrible thing but right now it seems like it would enhance the mood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "I approach the lake, suddenly noting every footstep and breath.\n\nI'm at the lake now; with each step the fence tears something new in the sky. Now I'm looking out on the water like there's a ship waiting for me. Now I'm sitting on a park bench looking up at the latticework of leaves above me. The only time I pay attention to those is while being unsatisfactorily kissed. It's better this way: as prelude, not distraction.\n* * *\n\n* * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lake", "response": "The water is murky with possibility.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swim", "response": "There are no railings here. Go any further and I'd plunge into the lake. A thought.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "I am thinking of Brian's folk-music phase. Specifically, of this:\n\"Made my steps towards the water where Undine last was seen, I was\ntold that if you saw her, it should make you more naive...\"\n\n* * *\n\nBrian approaches with his familiar half-darting half-bouncing gait. I've made myself hidden, I don't know why.\n\nI emerge and walk up to Brian, wordlessly. I can't think of anything\nto say, and besides, the air feels reactive against me like I'm\nsearing it, and I don't want to ruin that.\n\n\"Are you OK?\" he asks. \"Your email was a little... concerning.\" He pauses. \"Roslyn, what is this?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "(to Brian)\nI try to form what I'm thinking into words. It takes longer than it should.\n\n\"I'm good. I'm better, actually. Look.\" I throw my head back and brush a wisp from my eye, a combination ta-da and flirt.\n\n\"What's wrong with your eye?\"\n\n\"It's the Synpiece,\" I say. \"I'm wearing it right now.\"\n\n\"Is that it?\" He waves his hand in front of my eyes, like he's swiping a phone; he looks less impressed than he should. \"Huh.\" I think I'm supposed to think he's angry. What I do is take his hand. It feels\nlike it's made of tremors and unfulfilled --\n\n\"Roslyn, you're shaking.\"\n\nI laugh harder than I meant to. \"I guess you could call this thing a drug.\" Now he's drifting. \"This doesn't make any sense.\" \"I just want to try.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk", "response": "(to Brian)\nThe lake looks straight out of a ballad, the kind where heroines are fucked or passionately murdered.\n\n\"This isn't going to fix everything. It's a glorified piece of\nplastic. You said so yourself,\" Brian says. \"What exactly do you expect?\" In response I pull him close and kiss him like I'm arranging\na movie set. I guide and choreograph his hands to where they need to go, move him by the hair and press him against the bench. The sky is burnt orange and the air is chills. I try not to think about anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "else.I pull away and try to gauge Brian's expression. It is something between curious, upset and dazed, and I can't place it. \"Are you\nokay?\" In response he pulls me into a hug. This is all he does for\nfive minutes, and all he does for the rest of the night. Somehow I\nfind this pleasant. Specifically, as pleasant as a compromise.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Urban Fantasy" ]

[ "cover art", "Inform 7", "liminal spaces" ]

[ 0, 3, 4, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "All around the city now, parties are taking place. It's been a hell of a year, emphasis on hell.\n\nBut tonight, there are other things you have to do. The end of the year is a threshold. And like all thresholds...\n\n\n\nAll the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty), a desk (on which are a handkerchief, a tallow candle, the keener fragment, a goathorn piece, a shred of fabric, a broken propeller, a pint glass, and a trapped butterfly), and a chair here.\n\n(If you would like explicit guidance on how to play, type INSTRUCTIONS)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Getting old, to be quite honest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wastebasket", "response": "It's an ordinary wastebasket, a cylinder of black aluminum. But wrapped around it is a complex pattern in silver thread that makes your eyes defocus if you try to follow it.\n\nWhen midnight strikes, everything inside it will be destroyed. Even the magical things that are ordinarily hard to dispose of. Especially the magical things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "%", "response": "Aleph Before midnight 0/6\n\nAll around the city now, parties are taking place. It's been a hell of a year, emphasis on hell.\n\nBut tonight, there are other things you have to do. The end of the\nyear is a threshold. And like all thresholds...\n\n\n\nAll the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty),\na desk (on which are a handkerchief, a tallow candle, the keener fragment, a goathorn piece, a shred of fabric, a broken propeller, a pint glass, and a trapped butterfly), and a chair here.\n\n(If you would like explicit guidance on how to play, type\nINSTRUCTIONS)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Just a cardboard box you salvaged from the bodega down the street. Using paint made from wormwood and lead, you've marked it with a sigil meant to keep its contents safe in transit.\n\nFor packing in the things you want to keep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "A cheap writing desk out of a flatpack. There's not even drawers.\n\nOn the desk are a handkerchief, a tallow candle, the keener fragment,\na goathorn piece, a shred of fabric, a broken propeller, a pint glass, and a trapped butterfly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wormwood", "response": "(That thing is either not here, or you don't need to refer it over\nthe course of the story.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chair", "response": "You salvaged this one out of a bistro that was about to close.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the chair", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit", "response": "What do you want to sit on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Chair", "response": "You get onto the chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the handkerchief", "response": "An ordinary grey pocket square. You keep it on hand; it's useful for handling things you'd rather not touch with bare skin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the candle", "response": "Made from tallow, with the dried optical nerve of a cow serving as the wick. It burns unevently with a purple-white flame; it does not smell great. The candle connects sight to memory and allows things to carry echoes of their history.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine fragment", "response": "It has no discernible physical shape. It's just a sullen, faded lump\nof hatred, held together by its own surface tension, still radiating horror.\n\n(You can TOUCH most things to learn more about them.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at piece", "response": "A memento from twenty-odd years ago. Gods, it's been that\nlong. Its divine power is certainly faded, but you still hold on\nto it for good luck. And, in all honesty, because gods have a bad\nhabit of being reborn from their pieces.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the candle", "response": "You don't want to disturb it while it's burning. For all you know, touching it might bring on a vision of the cow being slaughtered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fabric", "response": "A torn shred of thick synthetic material that someone carefully scored into a pattern that resembles feathers, or maybe scales.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the propeller", "response": "composite; taken from the remains of a destroyed police drone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the fabric", "response": "(first taking the shred of fabric)\n(first taking the handkerchief)\nYou gingerly take the shred of fabric with the handkerchief.\n\nYou grab hold of the shred of fabric with your bare hand, and your vision swims for a lingering instant...\n\nVision: Rooftop, Sweltering\nJust after sunset, several stories up, still radiating the heat of the day. A streak of blood runs across the edge of the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blood", "response": "A curved, triangular splatter. Not a gunshot; a fist. But produced\nwith abnormal force.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the building", "response": "(That thing is either not here, or you don't need to refer it over\nthe course of the story.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na shred of fabric (held with your bare hand)\na handkerchief\n\n(Once you are done here, you can LET GO to return.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You are in a phantom of the past, a congealed instant; you can only sense the world around you, or let go of a shred of fabric to escape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Garbage baking in the sun all the way down in street-level; the ozone promise of rain in the air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste", "response": "What do you want to taste?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You let go", "response": "You let go of the shred of fabric, and the vision fades around you.\n\nAll the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty),\na desk (on which are a shred of fabric, a tallow candle, the keener fragment, a goathorn piece, a broken propeller, a pint glass, and a trapped butterfly), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glass", "response": "Which do you mean, the pint glass or the trapped butterfly?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pint", "response": "A pint glass, the conical kind with a flared bulge towards the top. Faded lettering on the side spells out \"Herrig's.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at butterfly", "response": "A viceroy butterfly, perpetually flying laps inside a glass torus. Breaking it out of its little time loop would have vast and far-reaching consequences, just like doing literally anything else.\nBut figuring out what those consequences are for a given time and\nplace is a daunting task of divination.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the butterfly", "response": "(first taking the trapped butterfly)\nYou gingerly take the trapped butterfly with the handkerchief.\n\nYou grab hold of the trapped butterfly with your bare hand, and your vision swims for a lingering instant...\n\nVision: Shop, Cramped\nThe back door is still swinging where the shopkeeper went in to fetch something; the front door is caught closing as a customer walks away. The item in your hand remembers, particularly, this tiny instant of quiet between two doors slamming after an unwelcome visit, before everything went to hell.\n\nAll around you, the shelves are filled with a panoply of bizarre artifacts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "(That thing is either not here, or you don't need to refer it over\nthe course of the story.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the artifacts", "response": "Your eyes roam over the shelf space, eventually settling on an empty aquarium.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the aquarium", "response": "Recently cleaned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the artifacts", "response": "Your eyes roam over the shelf space, eventually settling on a caged crow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crow", "response": "Asleeep in a brass cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the artifacts", "response": "Your eyes roam over the shelf space, eventually settling on an empty bell jar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bell jar", "response": "Marked as sold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the artifacts", "response": "Your eyes roam over the shelf space, eventually settling on a Great\nWar gas mask.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at gas mask", "response": "Mint condition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the artifacts", "response": "Your eyes roam over the shelf space, eventually settling on a coal carving.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the carving", "response": "The size of a human head and the shape of an inhuman head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the artifacts", "response": "Your eyes roam over the shelf space, eventually settling on a bottle\nof faerie wine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the faerie wine", "response": "Curiously small and very, very old.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the artifacts", "response": "Your eyes roam over the shelf space, eventually settling on a collection of hands of glory.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hands of the glory", "response": "Mummified and dipped in wax.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the artifacts", "response": "Your eyes roam over the shelf space, eventually settling on a caged crow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hands", "response": "You are in a phantom of the past, a congealed instant; you can only sense the world around you, or let go of a trapped butterfly to\nescape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You let go", "response": "You let go of the trapped butterfly, and the vision fades around you.\n\nAll the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty),\na desk (on which are a trapped butterfly, a shred of fabric, a tallow candle, the keener fragment, a goathorn piece, a broken propeller, and a pint glass), and a chair here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "All the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty),\na desk (on which are a trapped butterfly, a shred of fabric, a tallow candle, the keener fragment, a goathorn piece, a broken propeller, and a pint glass), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the keener", "response": "It has no discernible physical shape. It's just a sullen, faded lump\nof hatred, held together by its own surface tension, still radiating horror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the propeller", "response": "(first taking the broken propeller)\nYou gingerly take the broken propeller with the handkerchief.\n\nYou grab hold of the broken propeller with your bare hand, and your vision swims for a lingering instant...\n\nVision: Warehouse, Exploding\nA mess of fire and debris, stopped mid-detonation.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Not like black powder, not like cordite. Acrid and sharp like some\nkind of high explosive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fire", "response": "High-speed chunks of aluminum and composite polymers, turned into expensive shrapnel; the remains of police drones, and maybe a fragment or two of the bomb that set them off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the fire", "response": "You are in a phantom of the past, a congealed instant; you can only sense the world around you, or let go of a broken propeller to escape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the propeller", "response": "composite; taken from the remains of a destroyed police drone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You let go", "response": "You let go of the broken propeller, and the vision fades around you.\n\nAll the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty),\na desk (on which are a broken propeller, a trapped butterfly, a shred of fabric, a tallow candle, the keener fragment, a goathorn piece, and a pint glass), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the glass", "response": "Which do you mean, the trapped butterfly or the pint glass?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the pint", "response": "(first taking the pint glass)\nYou gingerly take the pint glass with the handkerchief.\n\nYou grab hold of the pint glass with your bare hand, and your vision swims for a lingering instant...\n\nVision: Bar, Silent\nRain on the windows turns the world outside into a yellowy haze; upturned chairs rest on wooden tables.\n\nAnd over the counter, a note changes hands between a bartender and a patron.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the note", "response": "A napkin with an address scrawled on. It corresponds to a peculiar\nshop downtown.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bartender", "response": "Rough, tall, bulky; like everything in his bar he looks like he's made out of hardwood and old magic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the patron", "response": "Average in build but oddly sharp-eyed; you notice her undercut, though most of her is fuzzy. Whatever magic she's been tampering with has given her so much of an aura that she seems to vibrate in the air, there-and-not-there. And you know she isn't done, yet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch patron", "response": "You are in a phantom of the past, a congealed instant; you can only sense the world around you, or let go of a pint glass to escape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tables", "response": "Oak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the windows", "response": "Not at their cleanest, today.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You let go", "response": "You let go of the pint glass, and the vision fades around you.\n\nAll the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty),\na desk (on which are a pint glass, a broken propeller, a trapped butterfly, a shred of fabric, a tallow candle, the keener fragment,\nand a goathorn piece), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the piece", "response": "(first taking the goathorn piece)\nYou gingerly take the goathorn piece with the handkerchief.\n\nYou grab hold of the goathorn piece with your bare hand, and your vision swims for a lingering instant...\n\nVision: Basement, 1994\nDark and humid; silt has broken through the walls, the floor is\ndrowned in seawater, and the smell of rotting fish is everywhere.\n\nAnd in the middle of the basement, a man speaks to a god of goats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "Silt, saltwater, urea.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the silt", "response": "Grey and rough.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Vision: Basement, 1994\nDark and humid; silt has broken through the walls, the floor is\ndrowned in seawater, and the smell of rotting fish is everywhere.\n\nAnd in the middle of the basement, a man speaks to a god of goats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fish", "response": "A god of living goats and dead fish, caught in this place trying to swallow modernity. Head of a goat, fishtail, united by a body obscured under layers of hairshirt-like wool. Strange and bloodied. It would eventually be swallowed, itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "You already looked a bit unsteady, a bit rough around the edges, back then.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You let go", "response": "You let go of the goathorn piece, and the vision fades around you.\n\nAll the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty),\na desk (on which are a goathorn piece, a pint glass, a broken propeller, a trapped butterfly, a shred of fabric, a tallow candle,\nand the keener fragment), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at piece", "response": "A memento from twenty-odd years ago. Gods, it's been that\nlong. Its divine power is certainly faded, but you still hold on\nto it for good luck. And, in all honesty, because gods have a bad\nhabit of being reborn from their pieces.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "All the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty),\na desk (on which are a goathorn piece, a pint glass, a broken propeller, a trapped butterfly, a shred of fabric, a tallow candle,\nand the keener fragment), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch fragment", "response": "(first taking the keener fragment)\nYou gingerly take the keener fragment with the handkerchief.\n\nYou grab hold of the keener fragment with your bare hand, and your vision swims for a lingering instant...\n\nVision: Darkness\nIT HATES. IT HATES. IT HATES. IT HATES. IT HATES. IT HATES. IT HATES.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hate", "response": "It hates. It hates. It hates. It hates. It hates. It hates. It hates. It hates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "It hates. It hates. It hates. It hates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "It hates. It hates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "It hates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste", "response": "What do you want to taste?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Taste hate", "response": "It hates.\n\nNo, wait. Something's wrong.\n\nAll the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see the keener fragment, an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (empty), a desk (on which are a goathorn piece, a pint glass, a broken propeller, a trapped butterfly, a shred of fabric, and a tallow candle), and a chair here.\n\nYour hands are still shaking. It seems you threw the thing down on the floor with some force.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hate", "response": "You gingerly take the keener fragment with the handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the hate in the wastebasket", "response": "You put the keener fragment into the wastebasket. You'll be really\nglad to be rid of this thing; even in pieces, those have a mind of their own. You could never track down who made the original device, anyway, from just this small piece.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "All the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (in which is the keener fragment), a cardboard box (empty), a desk (on which are a goathorn piece, a pint glass, a broken propeller, a trapped butterfly, a shred of fabric, and a tallow candle), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the piece", "response": "You gingerly take the goathorn piece with the handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Just a cardboard box you salvaged from the bodega down the street. Using paint made from wormwood and lead, you've marked it with a sigil meant to keep its contents safe in transit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the goathorn in the box", "response": "You put the goathorn piece into the box. It's probably safe to keep, anyway. And besides, it complements the telling of the story of how\nyou came to possess it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fabric", "response": "You gingerly take the shred of fabric with the handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "Just a cardboard box you salvaged from the bodega down the street. Using paint made from wormwood and lead, you've marked it with a sigil meant to keep its contents safe in transit.\n\nIn the cardboard box is a goathorn piece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the fabric in the wastebasket", "response": "You put the shred of fabric into the wastebasket. That case is closed, anyway, and you travel light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the propeller", "response": "You gingerly take the broken propeller with the handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the propeller in the wastebasket", "response": "You put the broken propeller into the wastebasket. I mean, it's really just mundane trash, but you kept it for a while as a reminder that they're not invincible.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "All the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (in which are a broken propeller,\na shred of fabric, and the keener fragment), a cardboard box (in which is a goathorn piece), a desk (on which are a pint glass, a trapped butterfly, and a tallow candle), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the pint", "response": "You gingerly take the pint glass with the handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pint in the box", "response": "You put the pint glass into the box. It has sentimental value. Plus, it's hard to get another one given that Herrig kind of despises you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the butterfly", "response": "You gingerly take the trapped butterfly with the handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the butterfly in the box", "response": "You put the trapped butterfly into the box. Sure, in retrospect this\nis hardly the most useful thing to grab and run out of a fire in a magic shop, but hindsight is 20/20.\n\nThere; it's done. You've picked what to keep and what to discard from the past. A cleaner entry into another year of struggle.\n\nNobody has fun on new year's eve anyway; the pressure is too much. So you might as well spend it choosing what to take and what to leave behind. A year in this city has shown you enough things that you'd rather not have seen.\n\nYou light a cigarette while you wait out the last few moments. You don't hear the snap of the wastebasket vanishing into thin\nair at midnight; it's drowned out by the crackle of fireworks outside. But you smell ozone in the air, and feel the telltale vibration of something ceasing to exist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Afterword", "response": "for the occasion of New Year's Eve. It's set in the same universe as Cape and Mere Anarchy, and shares a player character\nwith The World Turned Upside Down and Four Sittings in a\nSinking House. It is, therefore, even more self-indulgent than\nthe December game I wrote in 2015.\n\nAs always, I can be reached on Twitter (@notbrunoagain).\n\nSpecial thanks in no particular order to Cat Manning, Katherine Morayati, Brendan Patrick Hennessy, furkle, juxi, Sam Kabo Ashwell, Astrid Dalmady, Hannah Flynn, Liam MacDonald, Adam Myers, Liam Welton, Samuel Partridge, Jason Macintosh, Caleb Wilson, Doug Orleans, Emily Short, verityvirtue, Kevin Snow, and everyone else who aided, supported, and read my work in 2016.\n\nDecember 30th, 2016\n\n(You can read this again by typing AFTERWORD anywhere in the\ngame)\n\nWould you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, QUIT, UNDO the last command, or read the author's AFTERWORD?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "All the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (in which are a broken propeller,\na shred of fabric, and the keener fragment), a cardboard box (in which are a pint glass and a goathorn piece), a desk (on which is a tallow candle), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the candle", "response": "You don't want to disturb it while it's burning. For all you know, touching it might bring on a vision of the cow being slaughtered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the basket", "response": "You would really, really rather not be holding it when it\ngoes off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Burn basket", "response": "This dangerous act would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the box in the basket", "response": "You don't need to concern yourself with the cardboard box; it's actually perfectly ordinary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the handkerchief in the basket", "response": "You don't need to concern yourself with the handkerchief; it's\nactually perfectly ordinary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put candle in the basket", "response": "You'll dispose of the candle properly once it's done burning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the basket in the box", "response": "You don't need to concern yourself with the engraved wastebasket; it's actually perfectly ordinary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the self in the box", "response": "You don't need to concern yourself with yourself; it's actually perfectly ordinary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the basket", "response": "It's an ordinary wastebasket, a cylinder of black aluminum. But\nwrapped around it is a complex pattern in silver thread that makes\nyour eyes defocus if you try to follow it.\n\nIn the engraved wastebasket are a broken propeller, a shred of fabric, and the keener fragment.\n\nWhen midnight strikes, everything inside it will be destroyed.\nEven the magical things that are ordinarily hard to dispose of. Especially the magical things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all from the box", "response": "(You will have to refer to things individually in this\nstory.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine basket", "response": "It's an ordinary wastebasket, a cylinder of black aluminum. But\nwrapped around it is a complex pattern in silver thread that makes\nyour eyes defocus if you try to follow it.\n\nIn the engraved wastebasket are a broken propeller, a shred of fabric, and the keener fragment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the propeller", "response": "(first putting the trapped butterfly back on the desk)\nYou gingerly take the broken propeller with the handkerchief.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the fragment", "response": "(first putting the broken propeller back on the desk)\nYou gingerly take the shred of fabric with the handkerchief.\n\n(first putting the shred of fabric back on the desk)\nYou gingerly take the keener fragment with the handkerchief.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "All the units in this old building have been divided and subdivided until they're dangerously cramped. The apartment is much as you found it; a year is not so long, and you'll be gone soon.\n\nYou can see an engraved wastebasket (empty), a cardboard box (in which are a pint glass and a goathorn piece), a desk (on which are a shred\nof fabric, a broken propeller, a trapped butterfly, and a tallow candle), and a chair here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the butterfly in the box", "response": "(first taking the trapped butterfly)\nYou gingerly take the trapped butterfly with the handkerchief.\n\nYou put the trapped butterfly into the box. Sure, in retrospect this\nis hardly the most useful thing to grab and run out of a fire in a magic shop, but hindsight is 20/20.\n\nIn the end, you're too much of a pack rat to really leave anything behind. Particularly in such a definitive way. But it's the exercise\nof choosing that counts; if you're going to carry all those memories along with you, let it be because you think they matter.\n\nNobody has fun on new year's eve anyway; the pressure is too much. So you might as well spend it choosing what to take and what to leave behind. A year in this city has shown you enough things that you'd rather not have seen.\n\nYou light a cigarette while you wait out the last few moments. You don't hear the snap of the wastebasket vanishing into thin\nair at midnight; it's drowned out by the crackle of fireworks outside. But you smell ozone in the air, and feel the telltale vibration of something ceasing to exist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the butterfly in the wastebasket", "response": "(first taking the trapped butterfly)\nYou gingerly take the trapped butterfly with the handkerchief.\n\nYou put the trapped butterfly into the wastebasket. It's kind of sad destroying this, since it's one of a kind, but it's also useless and bizarrely cruel.\n\nThere; it's done. You've picked what to keep and what to discard from the past. A cleaner entry into another year of struggle.\n\nNobody has fun on new year's eve anyway; the pressure is too much. So you might as well spend it choosing what to take and what to leave behind. A year in this city has shown you enough things that you'd rather not have seen.\n\nYou light a cigarette while you wait out the last few moments. You don't hear the snap of the wastebasket vanishing into thin\nair at midnight; it's drowned out by the crackle of fireworks outside. But you smell ozone in the air, and feel the telltale vibration of something ceasing to exist.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Just a cardboard box you salvaged from the bodega down the street. Using paint made from wormwood and lead, you've marked it with a sigil meant to keep its contents safe in transit.\n\nIn the cardboard box are a shred of fabric, the keener fragment, a broken propeller, a pint glass, and a goathorn piece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the fabric in the wastebasket", "response": "(first taking the shred of fabric)\nYou gingerly take the shred of fabric with the handkerchief.\n\nYou put the shred of fabric into the wastebasket. That case is closed, anyway, and you travel light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the propeller in wastebasket", "response": "(first taking the keener fragment)\nYou gingerly take the keener fragment with the handkerchief.\n\nYou put the keener fragment into the wastebasket. You'll be really\nglad to be rid of this thing; even in pieces, those have a mind of their own. You could never track down who made the original device, anyway, from just this small piece.\n\n(first taking the broken propeller)\nYou gingerly take the broken propeller with the handkerchief.\n\nYou put the broken propeller into the wastebasket. I mean, it's really just mundane trash, but you kept it for a while as a reminder that they're not invincible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Just a cardboard box you salvaged from the bodega down the street. Using paint made from wormwood and lead, you've marked it with a sigil meant to keep its contents safe in transit.\n\nIn the cardboard box are a pint glass and a goathorn piece.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pint in wastebasket", "response": "(first taking the pint glass)\nYou gingerly take the pint glass with the handkerchief.\n\nYou put the pint glass into the wastebasket. To be quite honest,\nyou're not sure if these are even enchanted. You nicked one hoping it had some kind of self-cleaning charm on it, but no such luck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the goathorn in the wastebasket", "response": "(first taking the goathorn piece)\nYou gingerly take the goathorn piece with the handkerchief.\n\nYou put the goathorn piece into the wastebasket. You've told that\nstory a couple of times now, but maybe it's time to bury that body;\nthe old fish-goat still shows up ever so often in your nightmares, crying about the concept of cheese.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the butterfly in the wastebasket", "response": "(first taking the trapped butterfly)\nYou gingerly take the trapped butterfly with the handkerchief.\n\nYou put the trapped butterfly into the wastebasket. It's kind of sad destroying this, since it's one of a kind, but it's also useless and bizarrely cruel.\n\nIt's been, in the ways that count, and awful year. Nobody will blame you for throwing out what little good there is, along with all the\nbad. You try not to let your mind form the words \"fresh start\"; there has never been one, and never will be.\n\nNobody has fun on new year's eve anyway; the pressure is too much. So you might as well spend it choosing what to take and what to leave behind. A year in this city has shown you enough things that you'd rather not have seen.\n\nYou light a cigarette while you wait out the last few moments. You don't hear the snap of the wastebasket vanishing into thin\nair at midnight; it's drowned out by the crackle of fireworks outside. But you smell ozone in the air, and feel the telltale vibration of something ceasing to exist.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Science Fiction" ]

[ "fan fiction", "fanfic", "firefly", "graphics", "heist", "humor", "jayne", "whedonverse" ]

[ 0, 4, 2, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "The room's about as big as Serenity's dining area, and it's stacked full of boxes. The boxes make an aisle from the front of the room to the back, and on the back wall there're some heavy black curtains.\n\n\"Wedding gifts?\" asks Kaylee, her eyes lighting up real pretty. Thinks we don't notice how her glance goes to Simon.\n\n\"Bride price,\" says Inara. \"All this came from the groom. It's on display to show the public that the bride is being wed to someone of 'appropriate standing.'\"\n\n\"Come now, 'Nara, don't be prickly,\" says Mal. \"Sounds like the bride's right sympathetic to your own line of work.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "As fine a specimen of manhood as ever. Though I do miss my gun.\n\n\"Fact is,\" Simon says, \"the bridal settlement has a long tradition. It was meant to insure that if a woman's husband died or divorced her, she'd still have a little independence. I always thought it was nice.\"\n\nKaylee is staring at him hard, so he adds on, \"...though now I think about it, it's antiquated and disrespects a woman's ability to look after herself. Lots of differences about Earth-That-Was.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I've got on me :\na ticket stub\n\nInara ignores all the back and forth and goes to the curtain. \"Might as well see the center of the collection. Jayne, I think this will open whole new worlds of art appreciation for you.\"\n\nShe draws the curtain back, and I'm faced with the strangest painting I ever saw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the painting", "response": "It looks to be real old. Real old porn, that is. There's two ladies sitting naked in a bathtub, and one of them is reaching over and pinching the other one's nipple, all dainty like she's picking up a teacup.\n\n\"...huh,\" Kaylee says. \"That's not what I... huh.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stub", "response": "It grants access to the bridal display of this wedding-to-be. Stiff purple square of paper with a lady drawn on it, and torn halfway across.\n\n\"A genuine oil painting from Earth-that-was, in this condition, of this age, is worth more than this house and every other thing in it,\" Inara says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Inara about the painting", "response": "I got three ways of conversin': ASK QUESTIONS, JOKE, and CAUSE A RUCKUS. That last one's my favorite.\n\n\"You'll have to give me some lessons in appreciating art, Inara,\" says Mal. \"Think there might be some significances to this piece that I'm not grasping the sense of.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "\"Is it just me or is something wrong with the eyebrows on those women?\"\n\n\"It's from the late 16th century,\" Simon says. \"French. It depicts the king's mistress -- see there, she's holding a ring that he gave her. Her sister is in the bath too, and the nipple pinch is to show that the mistress is pregnant.\"\n\n\"Still seems like a strange thing to give someone when you're getting married,\" Kaylee comments.\n\n\"Job suits me,\" I say. \"Be happy to store that in my bunk during the ride--\"\n\nInara steps on my toe, hard.\n\n\"Ai ya!\"\n\n\"I reckon we've admired this here bride price just about enough,\" says Mal. \"What do you think, Inara? Time to leave the viewing?\"\n\n\n\nNew Reykjavik is right up to the north part of this planet, as there's not much but water round the tropics. That being the case, it's freezing cold here half the ruttin' year, and from what you can hear told, mud the other half. This here is the freezing part. This street is all snow and ice, but the buildings ain't bad.\n\nKaylee, Mal, and Simon are along, loaded down with bags of this and that -- clothes for the wedding ball, electronics parts for the heist, groceries.\n\n\"If it isn't Simon!\"\n\nThere's some little bit of a woman shouting from the other side of the street. Simon doesn't even look up and we all figure it must be someone else she's shouting at. But no.\n\n\"Simon Tam!\"\n\nShe pushes her way out of the crowd on her side of the street and runs towards us. She's one good-looking girl, too, if you like 'em bundled up in a lot of furs and capes and with twinkly crap all over their boots. Simon doesn't look too delighted to see her, but the next minute she's hugging him and he kind of pats her shoulder.\n\n\"Everyone, this is Lucy,\" he says. \"She was in my year at medical school; we were partners in neuroregeneration lab. Lucy, this is--\"\n\nMal frowns at him.\n\n\"--this is everyone,\" says Simon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Lucy", "response": "She's got long blonde hair and a narrow pointy little face. Tasty enough, though not much like either Kaylee or Inara.\n\n\"I haven't seen you in so long!\" Lucy's not hugging him any more, but she's still got his arm like she's fixing to take it home with her.\n\n\"And I wasn't expecting to see anyone out here, either! I'm so far from home, it's ridiculous how lonely I get! And the weather! Snow 13 months of the year! Are you here for the Jonsdotter-Wilkes wedding? Please say yes. You're the only person on this planet that's going to know the same dances as me. Do you still tango?\"\n\nKaylee makes a little tiny noise I might not hear if she weren't right next to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Kaylee", "response": "Kaylee's chin is sticking out and she's getting real busy checking out something she's got stashed in her rucksack. Or possibly she's just moving stuff around in there. Don't look like she's takin' anything out.\n\n\"I-- don't know,\" Simon is saying. \"That is, yes. Yes, I was invited. I'll be there. Sorry, it's just such a surprise to see you again, Luce.\"\n\nLucy pouts. \"If you followed the alumni newswaves, you'd've known I was living here now.\"\n\n\"My mail has been very erotic lately,\" Simon says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Simon", "response": "He's almost got an expression on. Though I ain't sure I could put a name to it.\n\n\"We'll have to catch up at the wedding,\" Lucy says. \"I wish I could stay and trade stories now, but I'm already late--\"\n\n\"--there's a first.\" Simon's smiling for real now. Didn't know his face muscles stretched in that direction.\n\n\"Don't be awful. I'll see you there. Save me one of your dippingest, most Argentine dances.\" She kisses his cheek and then she's gone again, and the air behind her smells like apples. Cold apples. The snow hasn't gone anywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine mal", "response": "He's dressed in his best suit, which makes me think he's going to burst something.\n\n\"Care to explain what that was about?\" Mal asks.\n\n\"What, Lucy?\" Simon is still grinning a little, though it's starting to fade. \"She's an old friend of mine -- well, when I say friend, we kind of -- that is, we were never actually -- but I think she wanted -- if we hadn't been so busy we probably would have -- I mean I thought about --\"\n\nMal interrupts. \"She gonna turn you in? What with the price on your head, and all. We didn't plan on people hereabout knowing your name.\"\n\n\"Lucy? She wouldn't. Besides, it didn't seem like she knows about that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "\"Why-come you didn't see Lucy on the rutting guest list?\" I demand. \"You and Inara said you checked everyone that was coming.\"\n\n\"Wouldn't mind hearing the answer to that question my own self,\" says Mal pointedly.\n\n\"I don't-- she must have been added late,\" Simon says. \"She wasn't on the list when we looked.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "\"You and Inara got yourselves added late,\" I say. \"Maybe Lucy's stealing the painting too.\"\n\n\"This is just dandy,\" Mal says. \"Someone want to explain to me how the plan is going to work now? We need me and Zoe on the pickup, and Wash and Book got to stay with the ship, whilst now it appears that Simon has to attend this party but not be of any use.\"\n\nSimon's jaw is working and he keeps kicking at the snow with the toe of his boot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "\"What about me?\" I ask.\n\nEveryone turns to stare.\n\n\"I could do it. Do the sneaking part better than Simon could.\"\n\n\"We can't add you now,\" Simon says, annoyed. \"Even if Inara could get you an invitation, you'd need your own escort. And table manners.\"\n\n\"I'll be Jayne's escort,\" says Kaylee. Guess she's pulled her head out of her bag now. \"Did a good enough job at that ball on Persephone, didn't I? Still got the dress, even.\"\n\n\"Kaylee, this won't be--\" Mal says, while Simon says, louder: \"With Jayne?\"\n\nKaylee comes closer to me and holds my arm tight. \"It's supposed to look like this, right?\"\n\nThis is my bunk. Not that you could tell that, from the quantity of gos-se thrown here and there. Piled up in here is every\ngarment we could find on the ship that looked like it might fit me and do well enough for the wedding banquet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I've got on me :\na grey pair of faded underpants (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the garments", "response": "Place hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants, a grey scratchy shirt, and a white starchy shirt.\n\nI can also see a black pair of tight pants, a crimson pair of sharply creased pants, a frilly white poet shirt, and some jackets (white, trimmed crimson, and black sparkly) here.\n\nThrown over the bed are a black silk shirt and a black cloak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the crimson pants", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the crimson pair of sharply creased pants)\nI try on the crimson pair of sharply creased pants.\n\n\"Come out whenever you're done in there!\" yells Zoe.\n\n\"Yeah, I'm dying to admire your sartorial splendor,\" says Wash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the frilly shirt", "response": "Big flowy cuffs, and ruffles up the front on both sides.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the starchy shirt", "response": "It's thick white cloth, very smooth. It doesn't so much wrinkle as fold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scratchy shirt", "response": "Looks like the kind of thing the preacher would wear -- stiff cloth and a plain color.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the black silk shirt", "response": "Very plain-looking cut, but the cloth is thick and sort of shiny.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the black silk shirt", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the black silk shirt)\nI shrug myself into the black silk shirt.\n\n\"Having a little trouble in there?\" Simon shouts in. \"Do you need help putting on your pants?\"\n\n\"Sure! Send in Inara!\" I shout back.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Place hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants, a grey scratchy shirt, and a white starchy shirt.\n\nI can also see a black pair of tight pants, a frilly white poet shirt, and some jackets (white, trimmed crimson, and black sparkly) here.\n\nThrown over the bed is a black cloak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at sparkly", "response": "The coat is made of a slightly fuzzy black cloth, very dark and unreflective. Someone put little twinkly electroluminescent lights all over it, which sparkle and blink. I think it's meant to be some kind of star pattern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at white", "response": "Which do you mean, the frilly white poet shirt, the white funeral coat, or the white starchy shirt?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the white coat", "response": "It goes to waist-length and it doesn't look like it's intended for a man who likes to live large when it comes to eating. Or shooting. Or doing anything messy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crimson", "response": "(the crimson pair of sharply creased pants)\nThere's a line running down the front of each leg. Don't see why.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trimmed crimson", "response": "It's a heavy coat with brass buttons and straight sleeves. Bright crimson.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the crimson coat", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes)\nI dress, finishing a complete outfit of the trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes, the black silk shirt, and the crimson pair of sharply creased pants. Matching, but not too matching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cloak", "response": "It's a long piece of heavy cloth with a pin to keep it shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the cloak", "response": "(first taking off the trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes and grabbing the black cloak)\nI dress, finishing a complete outfit of the black cloak, the black silk shirt, and the crimson pair of sharply creased pants. Matching, but not too matching.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "Place hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants, a grey scratchy shirt, and a white starchy shirt.\n\nI can also see a black pair of tight pants, a frilly white poet shirt, and some jackets (white and black sparkly) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "I emerge dressed in a black cloak, a black silk shirt, and a crimson pair of sharply creased pants. \"Well?\"\n\n\"Very eighteenth century,\" says Wash approvingly.\n\nSimon just raises his eyebrows. \"That thing around your shoulders isn't a cape, Jayne,\" he says. \"It wraps around your waist and pins in place.\"\n\n\"You mean it's a skirt?\" I demand.\n\n\"Skirtlike garments for men have a long history, especially for formal occasions.\" I get the feeling he's enjoying this a little more than he should.\n\nPlace hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants, a grey scratchy shirt, and a white starchy shirt.\n\nI can also see a black pair of tight pants, a frilly white poet shirt, and some jackets (white and black sparkly) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I've got on me :\na black kilt\na trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes\na black silk shirt (being worn)\na crimson pair of sharply creased pants (being worn)\na grey pair of faded underpants (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop kilt", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the crimson coat", "response": "I dress, finishing a complete outfit of the trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes, the black silk shirt, and the crimson pair of sharply creased pants. Matching, but not too matching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "\"How about this?\" I ask, coming out of the room in a trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes, a black silk shirt, and a crimson pair of sharply creased pants.\n\n\"As a rule you want your shirt to be a lighter color than the jacket or coat you're wearing over it,\" says Simon. \"Give it another try.\"\n\nPlace hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants, a grey scratchy shirt, and a white starchy shirt.\n\nAlso nearby: a black kilt, a black pair of tight pants, a frilly white poet shirt, and some jackets (white and black sparkly).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the crimson coat", "response": "(first taking off the trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the black jacket", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the black twinkly coat)\nI dress, finishing a complete outfit of the black twinkly coat, the black silk shirt, and the crimson pair of sharply creased pants. Matching, but not too matching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "Wearing the black twinkly coat, the black silk shirt, and the crimson pair of sharply creased pants, I walk out for the group to see. \"What do you think?\"\n\nSimon shakes his head. \"Your shirt and jacket can't be the same color,\" he says. \"It makes you look like you're in service. As a rule, you want your bottom half to match one of the things you're wearing on your top half, and then the other thing you're wearing provides some color contrast. So you've got two colors total.\"\n\nPlace hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants, a grey scratchy shirt, and a white starchy shirt.\n\nAlso nearby: a black kilt, a black pair of tight pants, a frilly white poet shirt, and some jackets (trimmed crimson and white).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gray shirt", "response": "(first removing the black twinkly coat)\nI take off the black twinkly coat and discard it. The lights flicker when it hits the ground, then come back on.\n\n(first taking off the black silk shirt and grabbing the grey scratchy shirt)\nI shrug myself into the grey scratchy shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the black coat", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the black twinkly coat)\nI dress, finishing a complete outfit of the black twinkly coat, the grey scratchy shirt, and the crimson pair of sharply creased pants. Not that I put much store by Simon, but I expect he'll say this get-up has too many colors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the black pants", "response": "(first taking off the crimson pair of sharply creased pants and grabbing the black pair of tight pants)\nI put on the black pants, and they do zip all right, but soon as I go to take a step they rip right up the back.\n\nSo much for the fine craftsmanship of the planets nearer the Core. You'd think with the high technology and all they'd work out how to make pants that stay stuck together.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Place hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants and a white starchy shirt.\n\nI can also see some rags, a black kilt, a frilly white poet shirt, and some jackets (trimmed crimson and white) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the crimson pants", "response": "I dress, finishing a complete outfit of the black twinkly coat, the grey scratchy shirt, and the crimson pair of sharply creased pants. Not that I put much store by Simon, but I expect he'll say this get-up has too many colors.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the crimson jacket", "response": "(first taking off the black twinkly coat and grabbing the trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes)\nI take off the black twinkly coat and discard it. The lights flicker when it hits the ground, then come back on.\n\nI dress, finishing a complete outfit of the trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes, the grey scratchy shirt, and the crimson pair of sharply creased pants. Matching, but not too matching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go outside", "response": "I emerge dressed in a trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes, a grey scratchy shirt, and a crimson pair of sharply creased pants. \"Well?\"\n\n\"The red and the grey don't go together,\" says Zoe. \"Bad color combination.\"\n\nI give Simon a disbelieving look. \"That one's an unofficial rule, but she's right,\" he says.\n\n\"Save us some time if you told me all the rules at once,\" I say.\n\n\"But that wouldn't be funny!\" protests Wash.\n\n\"Can't,\" Simon says. \"Half of them I don't remember until I see you hideously mangling them.\"\n\nPlace hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants and a white starchy shirt.\n\nAlso nearby: some rags, a black kilt, a frilly white poet shirt, and some jackets (black sparkly and white).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the white shirt", "response": "(the frilly white poet shirt)\n(first removing the trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes)\n(first taking off the grey scratchy shirt and grabbing the frilly white poet shirt)\nI pull on the poet shirt. I look like a gorram idiot. There ought to be some other way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "I've got on me :\na trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes\na crimson pair of sharply creased pants (being worn)\na grey pair of faded underpants (being worn)\nsome shirts (frilly white (being worn), grey, and black)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop all", "response": "trimmed crimson coat with epaulettes: Dropped.\ngrey scratchy shirt: Dropped.\nblack silk shirt: Dropped.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Place hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants and a white starchy shirt.\n\nAlso nearby: some shirts (black and grey), some jackets (trimmed crimson, black sparkly, and white), some rags, and a black kilt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the kilt", "response": "(first taking off the crimson pair of sharply creased pants and grabbing the black kilt)\nI try on the black kilt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the grey shirt", "response": "(first taking off the frilly white poet shirt and grabbing the grey scratchy shirt)\nI shrug myself into the grey scratchy shirt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the black jacket", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the black twinkly coat)\nI dress, finishing a complete outfit of the black twinkly coat, the grey scratchy shirt, and the black kilt. Matching, but not too matching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "\"How about this?\" I ask, coming out of the room in a black twinkly coat, a grey scratchy shirt, and a black kilt.\n\n\"I like it,\" says Wash.\n\n\"He's wearing a coat that lights up and flashes,\" Zoe says. \"He's going to get shot the minute he attempts stealth.\"\n\nWash takes another bite of bao. \"Like I said, it's a great look.\"\n\n\"It's a fine jacket,\" Simon says to me, ignoring them. \"If only it would stop the blinking.\"\n\nPlace hardly looks like mine now.\n\nBook's suitcase is on the floor, spilling out a grey pair of pinstriped pants and a white starchy shirt.\n\nI can also see a black silk shirt, some jackets (trimmed crimson and white), and some rags here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the black coat", "response": "I feel the whole thing over carefully and finally I find it, sewn into the cuff: a little metal stud that can be pressed to turn the coat's lights on and off. The other cuff has the battery sewn in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the black coat", "response": "I press the stud and the lights on the jacket go dark. About time.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look yourself", "response": "As fine a specimen of manhood as ever.\n\nCurrently I'm dressed in the black twinkly coat, the grey scratchy shirt, and the black kilt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "I emerge dressed in a black twinkly coat, a grey scratchy shirt, and a black kilt. \"Well?\"\n\nSimon blinks several times. \"I-- yes, I suppose that works.\"\n\n\"What's he supposed to be, a highlander at a wake?\" Wash asks.\n\n\"Keep your knees together when you sit. Those short skirts get drafty,\" Zoe offers.\n\n\"How are we getting the painting out?\" I ask.\n\n\"You're not,\" Mal says. \"You're going to leave it there.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the space", "response": "I don't see nothin' like that.\nCome again?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "\"I know we've been moving towards a more user-friendly style of theft lately, but next you'll be wanting to steal stuff by maybe dusting and waxing it for the owner.\"\n\n\"You don't wax paintings,\" says Mal, aside.\n\nMal looks me in the eye. \"You don't take anything out. There's too much security in the way. All you do is get back into the Display Room and tag the back of the painting with a micro-sized locator. That way you don't have to shut down the whole security system, just the one panel that senses if you take the painting off the wall. When you're done tagging, you turn security back on and everything looks right and shiny.\"\n\nSimon arrives from the passenger area. He's dressed real formally in black suit and a white shirt I'm sure wasn't on him when I went through his luggage that time him and River got taken by hill-folk. Guess he's been doing some shopping.\n\nHe's also putting on some kind of lipstick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "\"No one mentioned the menfolk wear lipstick on this planet.\"\n\n\"It's not lipstick,\" says Simon, screwing up the tube. \"It's just a sealant.\"\n\n\"Sure, good thought,\" says Mal. \"Easy to get your whole face chapped, this kind of weather.\"\n\nBook gives Simon a long funny look but says nothing.\n\nMal goes on. \"When the painting is moved for assessment and storage -- which is scheduled to happen in the small hours of the morning -- we'll be able to trace it. Doing the trace during the wedding means there's the least chance for them to find the tag and take it off again.\n\n\"Simon and Inara scoped out this security team, worked out their habits. They'll be using several decoy transports for a cargo this valuable, but if we know which transport is the right one, we can lift the painting from there.\"\n\nInara and Kaylee arrive at last, both dressed up and glossy. \"Good, appears that the primping and fussin' is over,\" says Mal.\n\n\"You both look very nice,\" says Book.\n\n\"Ain't got all night,\" says Mal. And so we're off.\n\n\"Bad news,\" Kaylee says, coming to my elbow and talking low. \"I had to ditch the tool kit in the potted plant by the door.\"\n\nI've been this side of security for ten minutes already, and I'm already wishing we were at a different party.\n\nThis room is where everyone goes after they come through security, which is before you get to the real party. The fancier the party the more rooms you need to go through to get to it, evidently. Personally I like the kind that's held outdoors.\n\nKaylee is standing close by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "\"You-- what? How in the fay-fay duh pee-yen are we supposed\nto do the job now?\"\n\n\"Fancy place like this, there's going to be something we can use to jimmy the security system and reset the wires,\" she says. \"We'll just have to keep an eye open. But I didn't have a choice. Nearly got caught with the tools on me -- I only realized at the end they were running a full P-99 entry scan on the guests, and not just for weapons neither.\"\n\n\"That don't seem hardly polite.\"\n\n\"No! It's a full-body scan -- whoever's running security sees right through your clothes.\"\n\n\"Everyone's?\" Now that there's the kind of thing I ought to\nbe doing for a living.\n\nA man in a purple jacket approaches. He's carrying a tray, and on the tray are a dozen or so full shotglasses. Stuck along the top of each one there's a metal stick with a cube of something on it.\n\n\"Ooh, tasties,\" Kaylee says, taking one eagerly and handing another to me. The man bows and moves away.\n\nThere's quite a pungent aroma rising from this thing.\n\nKaylee pops hers in her mouth. \"When you get it in your mouth,\" she says, chewing awkwardly, \"you can't smell it as much.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink", "response": "What do you want to drink?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shotglass", "response": "*** Run-time problem P10: Since the shotglass is not allowed the property \"proper utensil\", it is against the rules to try to use it.\n\nOh, that burns. All the way down. Can feel the lining of my stomach.\n\nThis party is going to be good.\n\nKaylee swallows. \"I think that might have been fish. Once. In\nanother lifetime.\" She tips her shotglass up and takes a long drink. Her eyes go wide again, but this time she's quieter about it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell sprig", "response": "It smells like grandma. Not mine. Someone else's.\n\nOld Man Guest turns to his wife. \"Odd that we were fobbed off with this table,\" he says too loudly. \"I wonder who was in charge of the seating arrangements. And whether they were revised badly at the last minute.\"\n\n\"I did think we were supposed to be at the Glitnirs' table,\" agrees his wife. \"But then we wouldn't have met these charming people.\" She practically has to shout that last part for him to hear it.\n\n\"I admire your good heart, my dear,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "Mal made me swear not to say anything during the dinner course that I didn't absolutely have to. Think he made Kaylee promise to tell on me, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the old man", "response": "Elderly fellow, very thin, dressed all in black. So much for all Simon's dressing rules. I think the old fellow's a bit deaf.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the straw in the soup", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the metal straw)\n\nThat can't contain things.\n\n\"You sure are a cute couple,\" says Old Lady Guest to me and Kaylee. \"Where did you meet?\"\n\n\"Um, a different planet,\" says Kaylee. \"We've known each other a long time now.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the old woman", "response": "She's shrunk so short she's like half a person tall, and she's wearing some kind of purple dress with tiny lights all around the neckline.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the soup", "response": "It looks thick, white, and creamy. Doesn't look much different from Blue Sun Cream of Wheat, to tell the truth, only there's a green swirl of pureed peas to look decorative.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the spoon", "response": "It looks like any other custom-made gold-plated spoon, except there's a clothespin as part of the handle. Maybe so's you can take it home and hang up washing afterward. As a souvenir. There's a lavender sprig pinned onto the handle.\n\n\"Did you see the bride gifts?\" asks Old Lady Guest. \"They're extraordinary. That painting... such an exquisite piece of work. No one makes things like that any more. The brushwork is so fine you can barely see it.\"\n\n\"You didn't think it was a little... strange?\" Kaylee asks. \"I mean, the... pinching?\"\n\nOld Lady Guest shrugs. \"Manners change.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup", "response": "(with my hands)\nHad a cat once that would dip its paw in a glass of water and then lick off the drops. Didn't seem sanitary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the spoon", "response": "Got it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup with the spoon", "response": "I take a spoonful of the soup. By itself it tastes sort of ordinary, but the smell of the lavender kind of perks it up. Kaylee takes a sip of hers with her lavender-spoon and grins at me. Should've guessed she'd like her soup with flowers on it.\n\nOnce I've got the sense of what to do I eat nice and hearty. Or as hearty as I can. They believe in small bowls on this planet.\n\n\"Good to see that our hosts are ministering to the needs of the deprived,\" remarks Old Man Guest. I think someone told me his name but I forgot it.\n\n\"Oh, are they?\" asks Kaylee. \"That's nice of them.\"\n\nOld Lady Guest smiles.\n\nSeeing that I've finished with my previous course, the ever-hovering waiters bring me a crab.\n\n\"Do you plan to dance later?\" asks Old Lady Guest of Kaylee.\n\nKaylee looks at me, then says, \"I don't know.\"\n\nI frown at her. No point in the girl getting ideas about making me embarrass myself. This day's bad enough already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crab", "response": "It's a whole crab, claws and eyes and everything. I'm relieved to say that it is dead. Most likely there's some way into the shell, but I don't know what that is.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You can tell this room's expensive, because it's got a glass roof in this climate, but it's warm inside. Warm like one of those hot planet beaches. There are trees scattered around the room and lights all twinkling all over them, and fountains, just to show off how much clean water this planet's got.\n\nSet at my place is a crab.\n\nOld Man Guest and Old Lady Guest in a purple dress are sitting on their side of the table, smiling and nodding at us. They ain't eating a thing. Kaylee's trying not to have to say too much.\n\nThere are also gold-plated utensils (laser knife, itty-bitty fork, mini-mace, and flat spade) on the table.\n\n\"Wish I could still enjoy meals,\" says Old Lady Guest to the table at large. \"But I have intestinal problems. Do you know what Mayhare's Disease does?\"\n\nKaylee shakes her head.\n\n\"I hope,\" says Old Man Guest, taking her hand, \"that you are not regaling our dining companions with the intimate details of your bowel situation.\"\n\n\"Sorry,\" she says. \"Sometimes I forget.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Crack crab", "response": "(with my fists)\nI give the crab a good hard thump with my closed fist. It skids off its plate and lettuce and lands on the floor.\n\nThe waiter's eyes get very big. \"Allow me to replace sir's crab,\" he says. And sure enough right away he puts another one on my plate, even uglier than before.\n\n\"Lilija is such a beautiful bride,\" observes Old Lady Guest.\n\nWe smile and nod at that. I think nodding is probably safe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the crab with the mace", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the mini-mace)\nI hit the crab a couple times with the mini-mace, but all I manage to do is speckle its shell with many tiny dents.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the crab with the knife", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the laser knife)\nI revv up the laser knife and start in on the surgery. It works just dandy on the shell and claws -- lays 'em right open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the crab", "response": "(with my hands)\nMy fingers are too big to get into that shell and pick out the meat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the crab with the fork", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the toy-sized fork)\nI dig the toy-sized fork into the crab and manage to pull out a strip of the meat, and then another. It's... actually very good. Kind of sweet. Doesn't take long to fork out all the meat inside.\n\nSeeing that I've finished with my previous course, the ever-hovering waiters bring me some carrot juice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the juice", "response": "It's liquid. And orange, like a carrot. I'm pretty sure it is a carrot. In liquid form.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink juice", "response": "(with my hands)\nThe rim of the glass is perforated all the way around. To make it harder to drink, I guess. I dribble a little on my grey scratchy shirt, but the good thing is I think it won't show. Still, need to find another way to drink the rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the juice with the straw", "response": "Maybe the straw interfered in some fashion but what I'm tasting here is carrots plus some kind of citrusy thing.\n\nSeeing that I've finished with my previous course, the ever-hovering waiters bring me a green glass dome.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dome", "response": "It's like a tiny dome over the food, only it's clear and glassy and sort of looks like you're supposed to eat it.\n\nIn the green glass dome is some chopped raw fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "Mal made me swear not to say anything during the dinner course that I didn't absolutely have to. Think he made Kaylee promise to tell on me, too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jacket", "response": "The coat is made of a slightly fuzzy black cloth, very dark and unreflective. Someone put little twinkly electroluminescent lights all over it, though they are mercifully switched off at the moment. I think it's meant to be some kind of star pattern.\n\nThere's a juiced battery and a control stud sewn in.\n\nThere's a juiced battery and a control stud sewn in the cuffs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the dome with the spade", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the flat spade)\nThat looks a good bit too hard to just bite into.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lift dome", "response": "That first word, you get that from the Doctor? It don't mean anything I know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dome", "response": "Got it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open dome", "response": "I give the dome a good sharp blow with the side of my hand, martial-arts style. It goes skidding across the serving dish, but doesn't get far on account of this dish has high walls. Almost like it was meant to contain the blast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the dome with the mace", "response": "One good whack with the miniature mace and the dome cracks open and falls apart in a dozen or so curved shards. I could get used to the smashing-things method of eating. Suits me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the shard", "response": "*** Run-time problem P10: Since the shards of culinary glass is not allowed the property \"proper utensil\", it is against the rules to try to use it.\n\n(with my hands)\nI lift one of the shards to my tongue. It tastes kind of like candy. Also kind of like hot hot burning all the way down my tongue and up my nose. Ow. But tasty. A tasty ow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish with spoon", "response": "The overpowering scent of lavender combined with the chopped fish is strongly unappetizing. Not to mention I think Old Man Guest is laughing at me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the lavender", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the lavender sprig)\nI try stripping off the lavender sprig. Which you might think was the kind of event that would liven a stuffy party like this right up, but somehow it doesn't turn out to amuse them all very much.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sprig", "response": "I tug the lavender sprig out of the clothespin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish with the spoon", "response": "I spoon up the tuna. Pretty sure that wasn't how I was supposed to do it, but don't much care.\n\nThe next thing out is a cube of meat, just one not-very-big cube, skewered on the end of a long wire thing that stands up from the table. It's like food on an antenna.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cube", "response": "Another cube of meat, this one a centimeter or two on the side. It's glazed with brown goo and looks like it's got bits of tree sticking to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the antenna", "response": "I go to pick up the antenna, but one of the waiters leans over on my right. \"Sir, the antenna is already adjusted to its ideal height.\"\n\nThat's good to know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the meat", "response": "I lean in close and bite the meat right off its antenna. Now this wouldn't be half bad if there were about fifty more of these little cubes. As it is... you call that a dish? Wonder if I could get someone else's cube too.\n\nSeeing that I've finished with my previous course, the ever-hovering waiters bring me a cool white yogurt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the yogurt", "response": "Cool white stuff, looks like yogurt, only there's green and green-yellow and greenish-red powders layered in.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the yogurt with the spade", "response": "With the flat spade I can just about manage to lift up a layer of the white stuff with some of the powder. It keeps trying to slip off. When I get it to my mouth it tastes like... lettuce. With creamy dressing. Only the whole texture is creamy.\n\nThe waiter brings, last, a chocolate sphere. It's all round and glossy like a ball, until he pours some kind of hot sauce over it. Then it melts partly away right there on the plate. He also gives me a plain ordinary spoon like any old ordinary person might use. Don't see why we couldn't have gotten one of those sooner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the spoon", "response": "(the clothespin spoon)\nIt looks like any other custom-made gold-plated spoon, except there's a clothespin as part of the handle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I've got on me :\na lavender sprig\ngold-plated utensils (flat spade, itty-bitty fork, laser knife, mini-mace, clothespin spoon, and metal straw)\na black twinkly coat (being worn)\na grey scratchy shirt (being worn)\na black kilt (being worn)\na grey pair of faded underpants (being worn)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You can tell this room's expensive, because it's got a glass roof in this climate, but it's warm inside. Warm like one of those hot planet beaches. There are trees scattered around the room and lights all twinkling all over them, and fountains, just to show off how much clean water this planet's got.\n\nCurrently stuck in front of me is a chocolate sphere. It is accompanied by an ordinary spoon, a dining antenna, and some shards of culinary glass.\n\nOld Man Guest and Old Lady Guest in a purple dress are sitting on their side of the table, smiling and nodding at us. They ain't eating a thing. Kaylee's trying not to have to say too much.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You can tell this room's expensive, because it's got a glass roof in this climate, but it's warm inside. Warm like one of those hot planet beaches. There are trees scattered around the room and lights all twinkling all over them, and fountains, just to show off how much clean water this planet's got.\n\nThe stuff I'm supposed to eat next is a chocolate sphere. It is accompanied by an ordinary spoon, a dining antenna, and some shards of culinary glass.\n\nOld Man Guest and Old Lady Guest in a purple dress are sitting on their side of the table, smiling and nodding at us. They ain't eating a thing. Kaylee's trying not to have to say too much.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the sphere with the ordinary", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the ordinary spoon)\nGorram that's strong. There's chocolate, and some round red fruits I don't think I ever saw before, but mostly a lot of hot alcohol.\n\nThere's a bunch of fooferaw after that: dinner's over but they've got speeches, and toasts, and some man with flowers on his hat gets up and tells some stories about a dog he had, who is like the bride somehow.\n\nKaylee gets all happy and misty about that, so it must've been a good dog story. Don't much care about the things myself.\n\nAfter a good long time, though, we're allowed to leave the tables, and then it's all guests circulating and some of them dancing. Which is the time for me and Kaylee to make our move.\n\nWe're headin' into the hallway toward the display room when Kaylee gestures for me to hold still.\n\nI hear Lucy say, \"So tell me, Simon Tam: what did you do to get the Alliance chasing you and that price on your head?\"\n\nThis is a long, important-looking hallway. We were here before, during the public viewing of the bride price. The display room is just off to the east.\n\nNext to the doorway east, there's a security panel set into the wall.\n\nLucy and Simon are a little way down the dim hall; Lucy has her back to us, but I think Simon knows we're here. Kaylee is beside me.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You can tell this room's expensive, because it's got a glass roof in this climate, but it's warm inside. Warm like one of those hot planet beaches. There are trees scattered around the room and lights all twinkling all over them, and fountains, just to show off how much clean water this planet's got.\n\nCurrently stuck in front of me is a chocolate sphere. It is accompanied by an ordinary spoon and a dining antenna.\n\nOld Man Guest and Old Lady Guest in a purple dress are sitting on their side of the table, smiling and nodding at us. They ain't eating a thing. Kaylee's trying not to have to say too much.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "plate: Got it.\nchocolate sphere: Got it.\ndining antenna: I go to pick up the antenna, but one of the waiters leans over on my right. \"Sir, the antenna is already adjusted to its ideal height.\"\n\nThat's good to know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "I've got on me :\na chocolate sphere\na plate\na dining antenna\nsome shards of culinary glass\na lavender sprig\na black twinkly coat (being worn)\na grey scratchy shirt (being worn)\na black kilt (being worn)\na grey pair of faded underpants (being worn)\ngold-plated utensils (ordinary spoon, flat spade, teeny tiny fork, laser knife, mini-mace, clothespin spoon, and metal straw)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the kilt", "response": "I peek at the grey pair of faded underpants. Yup, still there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the coat", "response": "The coat is made of a slightly fuzzy black cloth, very dark and unreflective. Someone put little twinkly electroluminescent lights all over it, though they are mercifully switched off at the moment. I think it's meant to be some kind of star pattern.\n\nThere's a juiced battery and a control stud sewn in.\n\nThere's a juiced battery and a control stud sewn in the cuffs.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "%", "response": "The room's about as big as Serenity's dining area, and it's stacked full of boxes. The boxes make an aisle from the front of the room to the back, and on the back wall there're some heavy black curtains.\n\n\"Wedding gifts?\" asks Kaylee, her eyes lighting up real pretty. Thinks we don't notice how her glance goes to Simon.\n\n\"Bride price,\" says Inara. \"All this came from the groom. It's on display to show the public that the bride is being wed to someone of 'appropriate standing.'\"\n\n\"Come now, 'Nara, don't be prickly,\" says Mal. \"Sounds like the bride's right sympathetic to your own line of work.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Inara", "response": "She's not bad to look at, but I prefer more of an affordable model. And one that isn't so interested in serving men tea.\n\n\"Fact is,\" Simon says, \"the bridal settlement has a long tradition. It was meant to insure that if a woman's husband died or divorced her, she'd still have a little independence. I always thought it was nice.\"\n\nKaylee is staring at him hard, so he adds on, \"...though now I think about it, it's antiquated and disrespects a woman's ability to look after herself. Lots of differences about Earth-That-Was.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the curtain", "response": "They're made of heavy black material. And closed.\n\nInara ignores all the back and forth and goes to the curtain. \"Might as well see the center of the collection. Jayne, I think this will open whole new worlds of art appreciation for you.\"\n\nShe draws the curtain back, and I'm faced with the strangest painting I ever saw.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the painting", "response": "It looks to be real old. Real old porn, that is. There's two ladies sitting naked in a bathtub, and one of them is reaching over and pinching the other one's nipple, all dainty like she's picking up a teacup.\n\n\"...huh,\" Kaylee says. \"That's not what I... huh.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "\"What is this anyhow?\"\n\n\"It's from the late 16th century,\" Simon says. \"French. It depicts the king's mistress -- see there, she's holding a ring that he gave her. Her sister is in the bath too, and the nipple pinch is to show that the mistress is pregnant.\"\n\n\"Still seems like a strange thing to give someone when you're getting married,\" Kaylee comments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "\"What a shock, Simon likes the painting with the sister issues,\" I say. Actually that wasn't so much of a joke.\n\nSimon just gets clenchy in the jaw region.\n\n\"A genuine oil painting from Earth-that-was, in this condition, of this age, is worth more than this house and every other thing in it,\" Inara says.\n\n\"Job suits me,\" I say. \"Be happy to store that in my bunk during the ride--\"\n\nMal steps on my toe, hard.\n\n\"Ai ya!\"\n\n\"I reckon we've admired this here bride price just about enough,\" says Mal. \"What do you think, Inara? Time to leave the viewing?\"\n\n\n\nNew Reykjavik is right up to the north part of this planet, as there's not much but water round the tropics. That being the case, it's freezing cold here half the ruttin' year, and from what you can hear told, mud the other half. This here is the freezing part. This street is all snow and ice, but the buildings ain't bad.\n\nKaylee, Mal, and Simon are along, loaded down with bags of this and that -- clothes for the wedding ball, electronics parts for the heist, groceries.\n\n\"If it isn't Simon!\"\n\nThere's some little bit of a woman shouting from the other side of the street. Simon doesn't even look up and we all figure it must be someone else she's shouting at. But no.\n\n\"Simon Tam!\"\n\nShe pushes her way out of the crowd on her side of the street and runs towards us. She's one good-looking girl, too, if you like 'em bundled up in a lot of furs and capes and with twinkly crap all over their boots. Simon doesn't look too delighted to see her, but the next minute she's hugging him and he kind of pats her shoulder.\n\n\"Everyone, this is Lucy,\" he says. \"She was in my year at medical school; we were partners in neuroregeneration lab. Lucy, this is--\"\n\nMal frowns at him.\n\n\"--this is everyone,\" says Simon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "Can't rightly think of a thing to ask now.\n\n\"I haven't seen you in so long!\" Lucy's not hugging him any more, but she's still got his arm like she's fixing to take it home with her.\n\n\"And I wasn't expecting to see anyone out here, either! I'm so far from home, it's ridiculous how lonely I get! And the weather! Snow 13 months of the year! Are you here for the Jonsdotter-Wilkes wedding? Please say yes. You're the only person on this planet that's going to know the same dances as me. Do you still tango?\"\n\nKaylee makes a little tiny noise I might not hear if she weren't right next to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "\"Is tango a word for 'be pompous and get in the way'?\" But no one is listening to me.\n\n\"I-- don't know,\" Simon is saying. \"That is, yes. Yes, I was invited. I'll be there. Sorry, it's just such a surprise to see you again, Luce.\"\n\nLucy pouts. \"If you followed the alumni newswaves, you'd've known I was living here now.\"\n\n\"My mail has been very erotic lately,\" Simon says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Simon", "response": "He's almost got an expression on. Though I ain't sure I could put a name to it.\n\n\"We'll have to catch up at the wedding,\" Lucy says. \"I wish I could stay and trade stories now, but I'm already late--\"\n\n\"--there's a first.\" Simon's smiling for real now. Didn't know his face muscles stretched in that direction.\n\n\"Don't be awful. I'll see you there. Save me one of your dippingest, most Argentine dances.\" She kisses his cheek and then she's gone again, and the air behind her smells like apples. Cold apples. The snow hasn't gone anywhere.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cause the ruckus", "response": "\"Can we get back to the ship now before we meet any more of Simon's former friends?\" But as usual they're not listening to me.\n\n\"Care to explain what that was about?\" Mal asks.\n\n\"What, Lucy?\" Simon is still grinning a little, though it's starting to fade. \"She's an old friend of mine -- well, when I say friend, we kind of -- that is, we were never actually -- but I think she wanted -- if we hadn't been so busy we probably would have -- I mean I thought about --\"\n\nMal interrupts. \"She gonna turn you in? What with the price on your head, and all. We didn't plan on people hereabout knowing your name.\"\n\n\"Lucy? She wouldn't. Besides, it didn't seem like she knows about that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "\"Stands to reason she'd warn you if she was planning to turn you over to the feds.\"\n\nMal gives me a very warning kind of look and I remember that might not be the best topic of conversation to be raising at this particular juncture.\n\n\"That ain't our only concern,\" Mal says. \"What I'm curious about is why you and 'Nara told me you had this job scoped out, you neglected to notice your old girlfriend on the guest list. And how you planned on playing your part in this escapade when she's going to be limpeted onto your side demanding another Argentine waltz every two minutes.\"\n\n\"Tango,\" Simon mutters. \"I promise you, Mal, we checked that list in triple. She must have been added late.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "\"What's a tango?\"\n\nNo answer.\n\n\"This is just dandy,\" Mal says. \"Someone want to explain to me how the plan is going to work now? We need me and Zoe on the pickup, and Wash and Book got to stay with the ship, whilst now it appears that Simon has to attend this party but not be of any use.\"\n\nSimon's jaw is working and he keeps kicking at the snow with the toe of his boot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "\"Don't see how Simon being no use is any different from any other time he's been along.\"\n\n\"Jayne,\" Mal says. \"You're going to get yourself up in fancy clothes and you're going to go to this thing. Be better at the security part than Simon anyhow.\"\n\nI get my ten percent for shooting things, not for dressing up like an idiot and definitely not for covering for Simon. I open my mouth to say that, but--\n\n\"You get Simon's cut, seeing as it turns out he has a social engagement for the evening of the job and won't be able to work.\"\n\nSimon looks pasty and angry now. \"He'll need an escort. And\ntable manners.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "\"Simon can go alone, and Inara can come with me instead,\" I say. \"Wouldn't object to some free companioning.\"\n\n\"Inara is already on the list as Simon's guest,\" says Mal. \"Arrangements don't allow for changing that.\"\n\n\"I'll be Jayne's escort,\" says Kaylee. Guess she's pulled her head out of her bag now. \"Did a good enough job at that ball on Persephone, didn't I? Still got the dress, even.\"\n\n\"Kaylee, this won't be--\" Mal says, while Simon says, louder: \"With Jayne?\"\n\nKaylee comes closer to me and holds my arm tight. \"It's supposed to look like this, right?\"\n\nThis is my bunk. Not that you could tell that, from the quantity of gos-se thrown here and there. Piled up in here is every\ngarment we could find on the ship that looked like it might fit me and do well enough for the wedding banquet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the pinstripe", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the grey pair of pinstriped pants)\nI put on the grey pair of pinstriped pants one leg at a time.\n\n\"Come out whenever you're done in there!\" yells Zoe.\n\n\"Yeah, I'm dying to admire your sartorial splendor,\" says Wash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gray shirt", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the grey scratchy shirt)\nI shrug myself into the grey scratchy shirt.\n\n\"Having a little trouble in there?\" Simon shouts in. \"Do you need help putting on your pants?\"\n\n\"Sure! Send in Inara!\" I shout back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the black jacket", "response": "(the black twinkly coat)\n(first I'm gonna take the black twinkly coat)\nI dress, finishing a complete outfit of the black twinkly coat, the grey scratchy shirt, and the grey pair of pinstriped pants. Matching, but not too matching.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "\"How about this?\" I ask, coming out of the room in a black twinkly coat, a grey scratchy shirt, and a grey pair of pinstriped pants.\n\n\"My little boy, all grown up. We should take pictures,\" says Wash.\n\n\"It doesn't exactly look tailor-made, but it should do,\" Simon concedes. \"Now just don't say anything.\"\n\n\"How are we getting the painting out?\" I ask.\n\n\"You're not,\" Mal says. \"You're going to leave it there.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cause the ruckus", "response": "\"I thought Inara was on this boat to make you look\nrespectable, but seems to me she's making you be respectable.\nAnd respectable's not what I can take a cut of.\"\n\nMal looks me in the eye. \"You don't take anything out. There's too much security in the way. All you do is get back into the Display Room and tag the back of the painting with a micro-sized locator. That way you don't have to shut down the whole security system, just the one panel that senses if you take the painting off the wall. When you're done tagging, you turn security back on and everything looks right and shiny.\"\n\nSimon arrives from the passenger area. He's dressed real formally in black suit and a white shirt I'm sure wasn't on him when I went through his luggage that time him and River got taken by hill-folk. Guess he's been doing some shopping.\n\nHe's also putting on some kind of lipstick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Might as well stay quiet and see what happens next.\n\nMal goes on. \"When the painting is moved for assessment and storage -- which is scheduled to happen in the small hours of the morning -- we'll be able to trace it. Doing the trace during the wedding means there's the least chance for them to find the tag and take it off again.\n\n\"Simon and Inara scoped out this security team, worked out their habits. They'll be using several decoy transports for a cargo this valuable, but if we know which transport is the right one, we can lift the painting from there.\"\n\nInara and Kaylee arrive at last, both dressed up and glossy. \"Good, appears that the primping and fussin' is over,\" says Mal.\n\n\"You both look very nice,\" says Book.\n\n\"Ain't got all night,\" says Mal. And so we're off.\n\n\"Bad news,\" Kaylee says, coming to my elbow and talking low. \"I had to ditch the tool kit in the potted plant by the door.\"\n\nI've been this side of security for ten minutes already, and I'm already wishing we were at a different party.\n\nThis room is where everyone goes after they come through security, which is before you get to the real party. The fancier the party the more rooms you need to go through to get to it, evidently. Personally I like the kind that's held outdoors.\n\nKaylee is standing close by.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "\"Sounds like there's another thing the good doctor could have warned us about, if he weren't busy romancing his old school friend.\"\n\nShe frowns. \"Don't be mean.\"\n\n\"Why's he so interested in this job anyway?\"\n\n\"I don't know, I think he just wants to help the captain. And I think it's nice that he does.\" She adjusts her big skirt with one hand. \"Fancy place like this, there's going to be something we can use to jimmy the security system and reset the wires,\" she says. \"We'll just have to keep an eye open. But I didn't have a choice. Nearly got caught with the tools on me -- I only realized at the end they were running a full P-99 entry scan on the guests, and not just for weapons neither.\"\n\n\"That don't seem hardly polite.\"\n\n\"No! It's a full-body scan -- whoever's running security sees right through your clothes.\"\n\n\"Everyone's?\" Now that there's the kind of thing I ought to\nbe doing for a living.\n\nA man in a purple jacket approaches. He's carrying a tray, and on the tray are a dozen or so full shotglasses. Stuck along the top of each one there's a metal stick with a cube of something on it.\n\n\"Ooh, tasties,\" Kaylee says, taking one eagerly and handing another to me. The man bows and moves away.\n\nThere's quite a pungent aroma rising from this thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cube", "response": "It's sort of chewy and resistant and vinegary. Like pickled radish only much nastier.\n\nKaylee pops hers in her mouth. \"When you get it in your mouth,\" she says, chewing awkwardly, \"you can't smell it as much.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink shot", "response": "*** Run-time problem P10: Since the shotglass is not allowed the property \"proper utensil\", it is against the rules to try to use it.\n\nOh, that burns. All the way down. Can feel the lining of my stomach.\n\nThis party is going to be good.\n\nKaylee swallows. \"I think that might have been fish. Once. In\nanother lifetime.\" She tips her shotglass up and takes a long drink. Her eyes go wide again, but this time she's quieter about it.\n\nThere's a few minutes of milling around with the shotglasses, and then some men in purple uniforms tell us to go in to dinner. We've all got assigned tables. Mine and Kaylee's has got a little old lady about half the height of River, and her little old man husband who can't hear.\n\n\"Simon told us to copy the other people at our table for how to eat,\" Kaylee whispers to me. \"But these two don't even have food.\"\n\n\"Not sure the old guy even has any teeth any more,\" I agree.\n\n\"I'll copy you, then,\" says Kaylee. That's helpful.\n\nYou can tell this room's expensive, because it's got a glass roof in this climate, but it's warm inside. Warm like one of those hot planet beaches. There are trees scattered around the room and lights all twinkling all over them, and fountains, just to show off how much clean water this planet's got.\n\nThe table in front of us is spread with a clothespin spoon, a laser knife, an teeny tiny fork, a metal straw, a mini-mace, a flat spade, and a plate.\n\nOld Man Guest and Old Lady Guest in a purple dress are sitting on their side of the table, smiling and nodding at us. They ain't eating a thing. Kaylee's trying not to have to say too much. It's a real sprightly party.\n\nThe waiter serves some pea potato soup and a lavender sprig.\n\n\"This is for the aroma,\" says the waiter, lifting the sprig with gloved-up fingers. He tucks the lavender sprig into the clothespin of the clothespin spoon, and goes away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the soup with the spoon", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the clothespin spoon)\nI take a spoonful of the soup. By itself it tastes sort of ordinary, but the smell of the lavender kind of perks it up. Kaylee takes a sip of hers with her lavender-spoon and grins at me. Should've guessed she'd like her soup with flowers on it.\n\nOnce I've got the sense of what to do I eat nice and hearty. Or as hearty as I can. They believe in small bowls on this planet.\n\n\"Good to see that our hosts are ministering to the needs of the deprived,\" remarks Old Man Guest. I think someone told me his name but I forgot it.\n\n\"Oh, are they?\" asks Kaylee. \"That's nice of them.\"\n\nOld Lady Guest smiles.\n\nSeeing that I've finished with my previous course, the ever-hovering waiters bring me a crab.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the crab with the fork", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the itty-bitty fork)\nI dig the teeny tiny fork into the crab and manage to pull out a strip of the meat, and then another. It's... actually very good. Kind of sweet. Doesn't take long to fork out all the meat inside.\n\nSeeing that I've finished with my previous course, the ever-hovering waiters bring me some carrot juice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the juice with the straw", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the metal straw)\nMaybe the straw interfered in some fashion but what I'm tasting here is carrots plus some kind of citrusy thing.\n\nSeeing that I've finished with my previous course, the ever-hovering waiters bring me a green glass dome.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the dome with the mace", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the mini-mace)\nOne good whack with the miniature mace and the dome cracks open and falls apart in a dozen or so curved shards. I could get used to the smashing-things method of eating. Suits me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish with the shard", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the shards of culinary glass)\nThe fish tastes a tiny bit metallic, and then the flavor of the glass shard makes it all tangy and hot.\n\nThe next thing out is a cube of meat, just one not-very-big cube, skewered on the end of a long wire thing that stands up from the table. It's like food on an antenna.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat cube", "response": "I lean in close and bite the meat right off its antenna. Now this wouldn't be half bad if there were about fifty more of these little cubes. As it is... you call that a dish? Wonder if I could get someone else's cube too.\n\nSeeing that I've finished with my previous course, the ever-hovering waiters bring me a cool white yogurt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the yogurt", "response": "(with my hands)\nHad a cat once that would dip its paw in a glass of water and then lick off the drops. Didn't seem sanitary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the yogurt with the spoon", "response": "I spoon up the yogurt in the clothespin spoon. It tastes like a confused combination of potato soup, cheese, and lettucey bits, plus flowers. Think I was supposed to do this some other way, but I don't much care.\n\nThe waiter brings, last, a chocolate sphere. It's all round and glossy like a ball, until he pours some kind of hot sauce over it. Then it melts partly away right there on the plate. He also gives me a plain ordinary spoon like any old ordinary person might use. Don't see why we couldn't have gotten one of those sooner.\n\nOld Man Guest turns to his wife. \"Odd that we were fobbed off with this table,\" he says too loudly. \"I wonder who was in charge of the seating arrangements. And whether they were revised badly at the last minute.\"\n\n\"I did think we were supposed to be at the Glitnirs' table,\" agrees his wife. \"But then we wouldn't have met these charming people.\" She practically has to shout that last part for him to hear it.\n\n\"I admire your good heart, my dear,\" he says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "flat spade: Got it.\nplate: Got it.\nordinary spoon: Got it.\nchocolate sphere: Got it.\ndining antenna: I go to pick up the antenna, but one of the waiters leans over on my right. \"Sir, the antenna is already adjusted to its ideal height.\"\n\nThat's good to know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat chocolate with the ordinary spoon", "response": "Gorram that's strong. There's chocolate, and some round red fruits I don't think I ever saw before, but mostly a lot of hot alcohol.\n\nThere's a bunch of fooferaw after that: dinner's over but they've got speeches, and toasts, and some man with flowers on his hat gets up and tells some stories about a dog he had, who is like the bride somehow.\n\nKaylee gets all happy and misty about that, so it must've been a good dog story. Don't much care about the things myself.\n\nAfter a good long time, though, we're allowed to leave the tables, and then it's all guests circulating and some of them dancing. Which is the time for me and Kaylee to make our move.\n\nWe're headin' into the hallway toward the display room when Kaylee gestures for me to hold still.\n\nI hear Lucy say, \"So tell me, Simon Tam: what did you do to get the Alliance chasing you and that price on your head?\"\n\nThis is a long, important-looking hallway. We were here before, during the public viewing of the bride price. The display room is just off to the east.\n\nNext to the doorway east, there's a security panel set into the wall.\n\nLucy and Simon are a little way down the dim hall; Lucy has her back to us, but I think Simon knows we're here. Kaylee is beside me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "Yeah, this whole situation is hi-larious.\n\n\"I used to,\" Lucy says. \"I carried you around in my heart for years.\"\n\nSimon says something under his breath, too low to hear over the music.\n\n\"Not saying I was lonely for company,\" she replies. \"But you were always... the one that didn't happen. There's a glow in that.\"\n\n\"If I told you, you'd be in danger,\" says Simon. \"Trust me, this is not something you want to be a part of.\"\n\n\"That's the problem, Simon,\" she says. \"My feelings aren't reliable, and that's all I've got going for you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the panel", "response": "This is obviously the access controlling the security in the Display Room. It's locked, but not very well. I should be able to jimmy it open, given something long and thin.\n\nI'm really having to struggle to hear Lucy now, but she's still talking: \"Everything else -- logic, common sense -- say turn you in. Let your trial sort it out if you're innocent.\"\n\n\"Oh, yes: trust the system rather than a person you know. That always works brilliantly.\"\n\n\"I want to trust you,\" she says.\n\nSimon's looking down into her face very oddly. Fool boy looks like he's about to kiss her. On the mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "I've got on me :\na dining antenna\na plate\nsome shards of culinary glass\na black twinkly coat (being worn)\na grey scratchy shirt (being worn)\na grey pair of pinstriped pants (being worn)\na grey pair of faded underpants (being worn)\ngold-plated utensils (flat spade, toy-sized fork, clothespin spoon, ordinary spoon, laser knife, mini-mace, and metal straw)\n\nSimon finishes bending down and kisses Lucy on the lips. Kaylee stands next to me, speechless. Her mouth is moving with things she wants to say, but nothing comes out.\n\nThen Lucy slumps to the ground. Simon glances up past her at us. He looks embarrassed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Jimmy panel with antenna", "response": "Might as well wait until the good doctor is out of the way.\n\nKaylee turns to Simon. \"This part of the job, we can do. You should be out there looking pretty.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Simon says. \"Because society is proving such a comfortable place just now.\"\n\n\"You could dance with Inara,\" I say. \"Probably worth a hundred credits a dance.\"\n\n\"More, I imagine.\" He looks at Kaylee like he's got something else to say to her.\n\n\"Three of us back here are a lot harder to explain than two,\" she says. \"Me and Jayne, we might've just snuck back here for a romantic moment. Seems to be popular.\"\n\n\"Fine, I'm going.\" And he does -- after dragging his sleeping ex-girlfriend into a side room. Then me and Kaylee have the hallway to ourselves so we can do what we like.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Jimmy panel with antenna", "response": "I bend the end of the antenna a little and then poke it into the lock hole. It resists a bit, but with a bit of work I'm able to pop the panel open.\n\nInside there's a whole mess of wires.\n\n\"We need to sever that wire.\" Kaylee points. It's too far up for her to reach easy, or she'd probably insist on doing it herself. But I can see what she means.\n\n\"That's all?\"\n\n\"We'll have to reattach the ends again later so they don't notice the security is humped. But we'll come back to that when we're done.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You recharge knife with the battery", "response": "That first word, you get that from the Doctor? It don't mean anything I know.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Charge knife", "response": "Again with the funny commands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the knife", "response": "I unscrew the battery compartment at the end of the handle. There's a depleted battery inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the juiced battery in the knife", "response": "(first I'm gonna take the juiced battery)\n\nThe battery's sewn in pretty good. I'd need something at least a little bit poky to unpick the stitches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the stitches with the knife", "response": "I slip the pointiest part of the laser knife into the stitches and pull them a bit loose. Then I give the battery a good hard tug and it comes free from the coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the juiced battery in the knife", "response": "Done.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the knife", "response": "I screw the battery compartment shut on the juiced battery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut wire with the laser", "response": "Very very carefully, I slice through the right wire and cut away a little of the shielding.\n\nThere's a faint thunk from within the wall.\n\n\"That should do it,\" Kaylee says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "Again with the funny commands.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This is a long, important-looking hallway. We were here before, during the public viewing of the bride price. The display room is just off to the east.\n\nNext to the doorway east, there's a security panel set into the wall. The security panel contains some wires.\n\nI can also see Kaylee here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "Yeah, this whole situation is hi-larious.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Kaylee comes along.\n\nThe room's about as big as Serenity's dining area, and it's stacked full of boxes. The boxes make an aisle from the front of the room to the back, and on the back wall is hanging that strange-ass painting.\n\nAlso nearby: Kaylee.\n\n\"We need this down from the wall,\" Kaylee says, lifting the painting down and setting it so that we can get at the back of the frame.\n\n\"We've got to put a little hole in the wood,\" she says. \"We don't need much, the tag's not but a couple of millimeters across. But we need to bury it in organic material or it'll be easier for them to find, even not knowing the frequency to wake it up.\"\n\nShe gives me the tag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "I've got on me :\na tracking tag\na depleted battery\na dining antenna\na plate\nsome shards of culinary glass\na black twinkly coat (being worn)\na grey scratchy shirt (being worn)\na grey pair of pinstriped pants (being worn)\na grey pair of faded underpants (being worn)\ngold-plated utensils (flat spade, itty-bitty fork, clothespin spoon, ordinary spoon, laser knife, mini-mace, and metal straw)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the wood with the mace", "response": "I hit the frame hard with the mini-mace. That suffices to put a neat little pinhole in the wood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tag in hole", "response": "Done.\n\n\"We're done in here,\" says Kaylee. \"Now we just need to fix the security panel again, and we can go.\" She motions with her head towards the exit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "\"Here,\" says Kaylee, lifting the painting back into its place. \"Now it'll look like no one touched a thing.\"\n\nKaylee comes along.\n\nThis is a long, important-looking hallway. We were here before, during the public viewing of the bride price. The display room is just off to the east.\n\nNext to the doorway east, there's a security panel set into the wall. In the security panel are some wires.\n\nAlso nearby: Kaylee.\n\n\"If I hadn't had to leave my tools, I could patch this up real quick, make it look like we were never even here,\" Kaylee says, looking ruefully at the nest of severed wires.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the clothespin on the wires", "response": "(first removing the lavender sprig)\nI'm not sure it's going to fit at first, but I manage to jam the little clothespin spoon into the box and clip the wires together with the clothespin. Kaylee's giggling.\n\n\"Think it won't work?\"\n\n\"No, we've done worse patch jobs on Serenity,\" she says. \"As long as you can close the panel with the spoon in it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close panel", "response": "I push the security panel shut and it clicks in place. The spoon doesn't jam it at all.\n\n\"Lock it back up, and we'll be ready to go,\" Kaylee says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock it back up", "response": "I got you as far as saying we should lock the security panel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cause the ruckus", "response": "\"What the-- why'd we lift this thing if you don't have a buyer? Damn, no one learn anything from the Lassiter job? This painting's not 'xactly the kind of object you can just fence off on market day round the next cattle town.\"\n\n\"Now that is definitely true,\" says Mal. \"Though we might be able to get something for the frame -- what do you think?\"\n\nSimon gives it a long look, then shrugs. \"It's not in the best of taste by today's standards. Maybe five, ten credits?\"\n\n\"Nobody's selling nothing until someone tells me what is going on here.\"\n\n\"We've been paid,\" says Simon, still all calm. \"Not perhaps on the scale you were imagining, but quite a bit more than the average job this bird pulls off. You can even keep the painting if you want. Put it in your bunk. It's just a copy, though, I ought to warn you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Joke", "response": "Yeah, this whole situation is hi-larious.\n\n\"Actually,\" says Inara, \"the whole job was by the bride's arrangement.\"\n\n\"Sensible thing if you ask me,\" says Zoe. \"I wouldn't want that creepy-ass scene hanging on my bedroom wall either.\"\n\n\"You see,\" says Inara, \"the bride and the groom are very much in love. Unfortunately, the groom's family -- who live in a different system, by the way -- they're not wealthy enough to offer the sort of price the bride's family would approve of.\"\n\n\"And that's where we come in,\" says Mal. \"The groom's family sends a fake valuable painting, the bride's family puts it on display, and then after the ceremony--\"\n\n\"--but before anyone has time to get a second assessment done--\" Simon adds.\n\n\"--it is mysteriously stolen. Everyone blames her family's security, the bride and groom get to stay married.\"\n\n\"Very romantic,\" says Wash.\n\n\"It is at that,\" says Zoe. \"Honey, how come you didn't buy me a nice swindle for our wedding?\"\n\nWell, wound up with 15% of something, at least.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You ask the questions", "response": "\"But -- who paid us? Someone got it in for the bride and groom?\"\n\n\"Actually,\" says Inara, \"the whole job was by the bride's arrangement.\"\n\n\"Sensible thing if you ask me,\" says Zoe. \"I wouldn't want that creepy-ass scene hanging on my bedroom wall either.\"\n\n\"You see,\" says Inara, \"the bride and the groom are very much in love. Unfortunately, the groom's family -- who live in a different system, by the way -- they're not wealthy enough to offer the sort of price the bride's family would approve of.\"\n\n\"And that's where we come in,\" says Mal. \"The groom's family sends a fake valuable painting, the bride's family puts it on display, and then after the ceremony--\"\n\n\"--but before anyone has time to get a second assessment done--\" Simon adds.\n\n\"--it is mysteriously stolen. Everyone blames her family's security, the bride and groom get to stay married.\"\n\n\"Very romantic,\" says Wash.\n\n\"It is at that,\" says Zoe. \"Honey, how come you didn't buy me a nice swindle for our wedding?\"\n\nWell, wound up with 15% of something, at least.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Humor", "Slice of life" ]

[ "cover art", "female protagonist", "fish", "food", "Gay/queer protagonist", "homosexual protagonist", "humour", "I7 source available", "Inform 7", "lesbian", "non-human npcs", "parser", "short", "single room", "slice of life", "speed IF", "Speed-IF Without Number", "SpeedIF", "SpeedIF April 2001", "strong NPCs", "strong profanity", "very brief", "walkthrough" ]

[ 4, 41, 34, 11, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You're on the run. You've got a million errands to do -- your apartment to get cleaned up, the fish to feed, lingerie to buy, Britney's shuttle to meet--\n\nThe fish. God damn. You almost forgot. And it's in the studio, halfway across town from anywhere else you have to do. Oh well, you'll just zip over, take care of it, and hop back on the El. This'll be over in no time.\n\nDon't you just hate days where you wake up the wrong color?\n\nCopyright Emily Short 2001.\n\nThis is Britney's studio. You haven't been around here for a while, because of how busy you've been with work, and she's made a few changes -- the aquarium in the corner, for instance. But it still brings back a certain emotional sweetness from the days when you had just met for the first time... when you used to spend hours on the sofa...\n\nYou shake your head. No time for fantasy. Must feed fish.\n\nA huge cabinet, in the guise of an armoire, stands between the windows.\n\nOn the easel is a painting.\n\nOn the table is a vase (which is empty).\n\nIn one corner of the room, a large aquarium bubbles in menacing fashion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.\n\nThe evil fish begins to butt his pointy nose against the glass walls of the tank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the aquarium", "response": "A very roomy aquarium, large enough to hold quite a variety of colorful sealife -- if any yet survived.\n\nThe evil fish is floating belly up!\n\n...oh, damn. He was toying with you. As soon as he sees you looking, he goes back to swimming around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fish", "response": "Even if you had had no prior experience with him, you would be able to see at a glance that this is an evil fish. From his sharkish nose to his razor fins, every inch of his compact body exudes hatred and danger.\n\nThe fish glares at you, as though to underline this point.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na telegram\na chef hat (being worn)\na lingerie bag\na bouquet of flowers\n\nThe evil fish darts to the bottom of the tank and moves the gravel around with his nose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the telegram", "response": "A telegram, apparently. And dated three days ago.\n\n\"So,\" blubs the evil fish. \"How about it? Little food over here?\"\n\n\"Hey, nice SKIN TONE,\" shouts the evil fish. His words reach you in a spitting gurgle of aquarium water. \"You gone over to a pure eggplant diet these days?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine flowers", "response": "Okay, so it's silly and sentimental and no doubt a waste of money, of which there is never really enough, but: you miss her. You've missed her since ten seconds after she stepped aboard the shuttle to Luna Prime, and when you saw these -- her favorites, pure golden tulips like springtime -- you had to have them.\n\n\"Oh, you shouldn't have,\" says the fish. \"For me??\"\n\nYou just respond with a livid glare.\n\nThe evil fish is swimming around the tank in lazy circles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the flowers in the vase", "response": "You settle the flowers into the vase and arrange them so that they look sprightly.\n\n\"Oooh,\" says the fish. \"No one ever changes the plant life in HERE. It's the same damn seaw--\"\n\n\"Cut me a break and cork it,\" you reply tartly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "\"There ya go,\" says the fish. \"The girl is getting WARMER.\"\n\nYou open the cabinet, revealing some paints and a heap of cloth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cloth", "response": "Various colors of drapery that Britney uses to set up backgrounds and clothe her models. She does a lot of portraiture, so this comes in handy. It's all a big messy wad at the moment. Organized is not her middle name.\n\n\"Whatcha looking at? I can't see through the doors, you know.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the cloth", "response": "Poking around the cloths reveals -- ha HA! -- a vehemently orange can of fish food.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the food", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open can", "response": "\"Oh, for--!\" The evil fish breaks out in exasperation and hives. \"Screw the screwing around with the screwtop. SHE never has to do that.\"\n\n\"Well, SHE is not here,\" you reply. \"What do you suggest?\"\n\n\">FEED FISH<\" says the fish promptly, making fishy faces and pointing at you with his fin. \"Simplicity. Try it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feed FISH", "response": "Triumphantly, you dump the remaining contents of the canister of fish food into the tank. It floats on the surface like scum, but the fish for once stops jawing and starts eating. Like a normal fish. Blub, blub.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine FISH", "response": "Since I made the big bucks on this trip, it's my treat. Anywhere you like.\"\n\n\"I've had a hankering all day,\" you admit, as the two of you turn from the shuttle platform and head toward the bank of taxis. \"I could really go for some sashimi right now.\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Humor" ]

[ "animals", "based on songs", "cat", "dog", "I7 source available", "last lousy point", "Museum", "parser", "puzzles", "slavery", "Source Code", "They Might Be Giants", "Zorkmid" ]

[ 0, 10, 7, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "You are a lowly human slave, suffering beneath the squamous toes of your new lizard overlords. Patrisnake Kssshsss has charged you with getting rid of all trace of mammals in the back rooms of the Don Quixote Memorial Museum.\n\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. Your co-slaves have already gone through most of museum, including thankfully, the toilets. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are a lowly human slave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the whistle", "response": "Around your neck is a whistle. The whistle can be blown to summon the Patrisnake Kssshsss. This should only be done when you've collected as many mammals as you expect to be able to get.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skip", "response": "The skip is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "You give the whistle a sharp blow, and in moments Patrisnake Ksshss arrives to survey the skip.\n\nHe (or she?) is aghast by the distinct lack of mammals in the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the skip", "response": "You climb into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "You give the whistle a sharp blow, and in moments Patrisnake Ksshss arrives to survey the skip.\n\nHe finds you within the skip and smiles (snakes always smile) as he orders all the contents (including yourself) summarily destroyed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "A large wood-panelled information desk sits in the atrium, with a little drawer on the staff side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "You open the little drawer, revealing a packet of pork scratchings and a piece of string.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the scratchings", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scratchings", "response": "This is a pack of dried battered scraps of pig, some with visible stubble.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the scratchings in the skip", "response": "You throw the packet of pork scratchings into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skip", "response": "In the skip is a packet of pork scratchings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the little door)\n\nYou find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an incredibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The once impressive collection of portraits has now disappeared, most likely looted. The gallery is centred around a great window that overlooks the eastern exit.\n\nA lone moose head is all that remains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "The window has been broken open, and a crowbar is still jammed in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crowbar", "response": "The crowbar is a solid length of metal with a hooked end, designed for prying things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the crowbar", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the head", "response": "On closer inspection, it looks like a caribou.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the head", "response": "It's pretty much nailed to the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na crowbar\na piece of string\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the moose", "response": "You're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tie string around moose", "response": "You tie the piece of string to the caribou head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drag moose", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The once impressive collection of portraits has now disappeared, definitely looted. The gallery is centred around a great window that overlooks the eastern exit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the crowbar", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the string", "response": "You deftly untie the string.\n\nYou already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the moose in the skip", "response": "You throw the caribou head into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are greeted by a sunny day on the steps of the museum. The grand entrance looms up to the north, while steps radiate out in all other directions. Going in such directions would, of course, be highly forbidden.\n\nA dog is mourning here over the vaporised remains of its owner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dog", "response": "The dog is one of those really sad looking pugs. You know how you can have jolly looking pugs? Well this isn't one of them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the dog", "response": "Violence begets violence. Or maybe it begets sentient lizard people. Either way, it's not the solution.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You really shouldn't stroll off from the museum: that is in direct violation of the commands of your lizard overlords.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the dog", "response": "The dog growls at you, and refuses to be budged from the remains of its owner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the string to dog", "response": "Unfortunately, the mourning dog doesn't seem to be too enthusiastic about that plan. It'd probably work on a smaller animal though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine owner", "response": "GS. YOU You see nothing special about the vaporised remains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the remains", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nYou can also see a crowbar here.\n\nThe mourning dog arrives from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the remains in the skip", "response": "NE POINT.]\n\n> >S\n\n> MUSeYou throw the vaporised remains into the skip.\n\nThe dog clambers into the skip to be closer to the remains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an improbably high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ceiling", "response": "Above you is a very high ceiling!\n\nIn the high ceiling is a reticent bat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bat", "response": "The bat is circling above you, apparently reticent about coming down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The cloak room is musty and full of old coats.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the coats", "response": "Which do you mean, the blue raincoat, the snakeskin coat or the ocelot coat?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at ocelot coat", "response": "It's a faux-fur ocelot coat, as revealing as it is tasteless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the ocelot coat", "response": "(first taking the ocelot coat)\nYou put on the ocelot coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove ocelot coat", "response": "You take off the ocelot coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snakeskin coat", "response": "ONE POINT.]\n\n> >S\nThe coat is made of real snake skin. Best not show this to Kssshsss...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blue", "response": "It's a famous design, with an inside pocket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pocket", "response": "The pocket is very spacious.\n\nIn the inside pocket is a pair of fox-fur gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan ocelot coat\na piece of string\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the coat", "response": "(the ocelot coat)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine gloves", "response": "The gloves are made of fox leather and lined with fox fur.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search blue", "response": "The pocket is very spacious.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The cloak room is musty and full of old coats.\n\nYou can see an ocelot coat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "You put on the pair of fox-fur gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear coat", "response": "(the ocelot coat)\n(first taking the ocelot coat)\nYou put on the ocelot coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an impossibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Atrium\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nYou can also see a crowbar here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the gloves in the skip", "response": "(first taking it off)\nYou throw the pair of fox-fur gloves into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Back Corridor\nYou find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a significantly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You stand in a vast maze of shelves and low tables cluttered with all the pots and less interesting artefacts that haven't won a place in the public parts of the museum.\n\nA half-constructed whale skeleton hangs from the ceiling from long thin wires.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the skeleton", "response": "The bones form the back end of a whale- mostly a rib cage and tail bones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelves", "response": "The shelves are stacked with banal pots and unfathomable ancient trinkets. On one of the shelves there's a pair of secateurs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the secateurs", "response": "It's a small pair of very sharp hand-shears, used for snipping or cutting things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the secateurs", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the wire with the secateurs", "response": "TH A SIGNIFICANTLY HIGH You snip the many wires that hold up the whale skeleton, and with the last one all the bones fall into a vast pile at your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pots", "response": "One pot stands out as particularly significant. Not because of the design (a bland series of brown lines), but because of the massive stuffed dolphin sticking out of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dolphin", "response": "It's a small river dolphin, gently preserved for future generations to admire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the secateurs", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the string to whistle", "response": "You tie the piece of string to the lizard whistle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the whale", "response": "You'll never be able to pick up the whale bones while you're carrying the stuffed dolphin.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You stand in a vast maze of shelves and low tables cluttered with all the pots and less interesting artefacts that haven't won a place in the public parts of the museum.\n\nThere's a pile of whale bones here.\n\nYou can also see a pair of secateurs here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "S trinkets", "response": "YI only understood you as far as wanting to s the long thin wires.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trinkets", "response": "The holding room is full of the cultural detritus of ages. And pots. Lots of pots. Apparently, the only thing that consistently survives each era is a culture's equivalent to Tupperware.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the tables", "response": "The low tables mostly just hold uninteresting pots, but one of them has a massive crate on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine crate", "response": "It's a massive crate with an Australian postage mark on the side- it's currently nailed shut.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a plot relevant high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nYou can also see a crowbar here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the dolphin in the skip", "response": "> BACK CORrYou throw the stuffed dolphin into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an incredibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stand in a vast maze of shelves and low tables cluttered with all the pots and less interesting artefacts that haven't won a place in the public parts of the museum.\n\nThere's a pile of whale bones here.\n\nOn a low table is a massive crate (closed).\n\nYou can also see a pair of secateurs here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the artefacts", "response": "The holding room is full of the cultural detritus of ages. And pots. Lots of pots. Apparently, the only thing that consistently survives each era is a culture's equivalent to Tupperware.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pry the crate with crowbar", "response": "You pry open the crate, revealing a severely over-stuffed koala within.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the koala", "response": "The taxidermist evidently had never seen a living koala, and so did not know when to stop stuffing the late marsupial. It's almost bursting at its clearly visible seams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hug the koala", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the koala", "response": "You give the koala a pull, but it's too overstuffed to remove.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the crowbar", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the koala", "response": "You shear into the overstuffed koala, revealing a mound of treated straw bursting out of its abdomen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the straw", "response": "There's really so much more stuffing that you'd imagine could fit in a single koala.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the koala", "response": "You pull out the koala, revealing a slightly squashed stuffed echidna underneath.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the echidna", "response": "YIt's a slightly squashed prickly monotreme. Given that it's stuffed, it's not likely it'll lay eggs any time soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine crate", "response": "You've broken open the massive crate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the echidna", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an improbably high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the whale", "response": "PRYED OPEN.\n\n> >p\nBack Corridor\nYou find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an impossibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou stand in a vast maze of shelves and low tables cluttered with all the pots and less interesting artefacts that haven't won a place in the public parts of the museum.\n\nThere's a pile of whale bones here.\n\nOn a low table is a massive crate (empty).\n\nYou can also see an over-stuffed koala, a pair of secateurs, a treated straw stuffing and a crowbar here.\n\nThe bones are very bulky but surprisingly light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the whale", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a significantly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nYou can also see a stuffed echidna here.\n\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the koala", "response": "Back Corridor\nYou find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a plot relevant high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou stand in a vast maze of shelves and low tables cluttered with all the pots and less interesting artefacts that haven't won a place in the public parts of the museum.\n\nOn a low table is a massive crate (empty).\n\nYou can also see an over-stuffed koala, a pair of secateurs, a treated straw stuffing and a crowbar here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You stand in a vast maze of shelves and low tables cluttered with all the pots and less interesting artefacts that haven't won a place in the public parts of the museum.\n\nOn a low table is a massive crate (empty).\n\nYou can also see a pair of secateurs, a treated straw stuffing and a crowbar here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the koala", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an incredibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nYou can also see a whale bones and a stuffed echidna here.\n\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the koala in the skip", "response": "CORRYOU THROW THe(first taking the over-stuffed koala)\n\nYou throw the over-stuffed koala into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the whale in the skip", "response": "(first taking the whale bones)\n\nYou pick up the bones again.\n\nYou throw the whale bones into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the echidna in the skip", "response": "(first taking the stuffed echidna)\n\nYou throw the stuffed echidna into the skip.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Back Corridor\nYou find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an improbably high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The office of the curator is mostly taken up by a huge painting of a giraffe. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nOn the small desk is a rock paperweight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paperweight", "response": "It's a pet rock. They were all the craze once: everyone wanted one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the painting", "response": "A somewhat postmodern arrangement of orange and black splodges. You're fairly sure that the only animals harmed by the making of this painting were the human critics paid to look at it.\n\nYou hear some squeaking from somewhere in the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the string around the rock", "response": "(first untying the string)\n\nYou deftly untie the string.\n\nYou already have that.\n\nYou tie the piece of string to the rock paperweight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "TO SOUtYou think you can hear some squeaking from behind the huge giraffe painting.\n\nYou hear nothing unexpected.\n\nThere's that squeaking again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the painting", "response": "It's rather attached to the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the chair", "response": "The chair is huge and overstuffed, but it looks like it could easily be moved between places.\n\nOn the huge overstuffed chair is the resident cat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na rock paperweight\nan ocelot coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the paperweight", "response": "Dropped.\n\nYep, definitely some squeaking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Main Holding Room\nYou stand in a vast maze of shelves and low tables cluttered with all the pots and less interesting artefacts that haven't won a place in the public parts of the museum.\n\nOn a low table is a massive crate (empty).\n\nYou can also see a pair of secateurs, a treated straw stuffing and a crowbar here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the secateurs and crowbar", "response": "pair of secateurs: Taken.\ncrowbar: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a significantly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nThe office of the curator is mostly taken up by a huge painting of a giraffe. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see a rock paperweight here.\n\nYep, definitely some squeaking.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pry painting with crowbar", "response": "NE UP BY ONE POINT.]\n\n> >S\nTThe painting tears off the wall, landing in a torn heap on the floor.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see a hole in the brickwork (in which is a family of shrews) and a rock paperweight here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shrews", "response": "There's a small family of shrews living in the brickwork. The only thing you remember about shrews is that if you try to poison them, it only makes their bites fatal. And that might not be true.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shrews", "response": "Pick them up with your unprotected hands?! They're vicious little biting things; it's not going to happen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the secateurs and crowbar", "response": "pair of secateurs: Dropped.\ncrowbar: Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show shrews to cat", "response": "(first taking the family of shrews)\nPick them up with your unprotected hands?! They're vicious little biting things; it's not going to happen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cat", "response": "The cat is a rather fluffy tortoiseshell, insistent on following you around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nthe resident cat\nan ocelot coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet cat", "response": "The cat purrs merrily as you pet her.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cat in skip", "response": "N HEAP ON THE FlYou throw the resident cat into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gloves", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe cat gets bored of being in the skip and jumps out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an incredibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nThe resident cat arrives from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see a crowbar, a pair of secateurs, a hole in the brickwork (in which is a family of shrews) and a rock paperweight here.\n\nThe resident cat arrives from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "You put on the pair of fox-fur gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shrews", "response": "POINTS.]\n\n> >eTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "There's a gaping hole in the crumbling brickwork.\n\nThe cat turns around three time, flops to the ground and falls asleep.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see the resident cat, a crowbar, a pair of secateurs, a hole in the brickwork (empty) and a rock paperweight here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fridge", "response": "It's a small white box for keeping things cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You open the fridge, and inside is a glass of milk, a regular trifle, a bunch of grapes and a vegan trifle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine milk", "response": "L, LANdIt's a cold glass of milk. From the smell, you'd say it might be goat's milk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at regular", "response": "It's a three-tiered concoction of full-fat cream, ox gelatin jelly, and milk-powder-enriched sponge cake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the grapes", "response": "Just a bunch of sad looking grapes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine vegan", "response": "It's gluten and sugar free as well. You can only assume that it's made entirely from rice starch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the milk and regular", "response": "glass of milk: You're carrying too many things already.\nregular trifle: You're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the shrews in skip", "response": "POINT.]\n\n> >S\n\n> TTHE PaYou throw the family of shrews into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the gloves in the skip", "response": "(first taking it off)\nYou throw the pair of fox-fur gloves into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na bunch of grapes\nan ocelot coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an impossibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bat", "response": "The bat is circling above you, apparently reticent about coming down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the grapes", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see a pair of secateurs, the resident cat, a crowbar, a hole in the brickwork (empty) and a rock paperweight here.\n\nYou find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a significantly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a bunch of grapes here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "Curator's Office\nThe painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see a pair of secateurs, the resident cat, a crowbar, a hole in the brickwork (empty) and a rock paperweight here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the milk and regular", "response": "glass of milk: Taken.\nregular trifle: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the vegan", "response": "You're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a plot relevant high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a bunch of grapes here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the milk in the skip", "response": "You throw the glass of milk into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the trifle in the skip", "response": "You throw the regular trifle into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cat", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an incredibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a bunch of grapes here.\n\nThe painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see a pair of secateurs, the resident cat, a crowbar, a hole in the brickwork (empty) and a rock paperweight here.\n\nYou pick her up and she miaows with minor concern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Back Corridor\nYou find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an improbably high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a bunch of grapes here.\n\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cat in the skip", "response": "IGH CEILING. THeYou throw the resident cat into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an impossibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a bunch of grapes here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\nan ocelot coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see a pair of secateurs, a crowbar, a hole in the brickwork (empty) and a rock paperweight here.\n\nThe cat gets bored of being in the skip and jumps out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the vegan and the rock", "response": "THE SKIP.\n\n> [YOUR SCovegan trifle: Taken.\nrock paperweight: Taken.\n\nThe resident cat arrives from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a significantly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a bunch of grapes here.\n\nThe resident cat arrives from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put vegan on the grapes", "response": "Putting things on the bunch of grapes would achieve nothing.\n\nThe cat rubs against your legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the string to the cat", "response": "(first untying the string)\n\nYou want the string tied around the rock paperweight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the rock at the bat", "response": "No, that would be cruel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Swing the rock", "response": "There's nothing sensible to swing here.\n\nThe cat purrs contently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the string to bat", "response": "With the string, you tie the bat to the rock, anchoring the poor bat to the rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na vegan trifle\nan ocelot coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rock", "response": "That seems to be a part of the anchored bat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bat", "response": "The bat is too high to jump and catch from the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the string", "response": "You want the string tied around the anchored bat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the coat at the bat", "response": "No, that would be cruel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na vegan trifle\nan ocelot coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)\n\nThe cat stretches joyously.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see the resident cat, a pair of secateurs, a crowbar and a hole in the brickwork (empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "K You are carrying:\na rock paperweight\na vegan trifle\nan ocelot coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)\n\nThe cat rubs against your legs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat vegan", "response": "You've already had lunch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the self", "response": "Things aren't that dire yet.\n\nThe cat purrs contently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the grapes to bat", "response": "(first taking the bunch of grapes)\nYou're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the grapes to bat", "response": "(first taking the bunch of grapes)\nThe reticent bat is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the vegan to bat", "response": ".]\n\n> >UNDO\n\n> BACK COrThe reticent bat is unimpressed.\n\nThe cat stretches joyously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The cloak room is musty and full of old coats.\n\nThe resident cat arrives from the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the coat", "response": "(the ocelot coat)\nYou already have that.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The cloak room is musty and full of old coats.\n\nYou can see the resident cat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a plot relevant high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a bunch of grapes and a rock paperweight here.\n\nThe resident cat arrives from the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the snakeskin coat to the bat", "response": "The reticent bat is unimpressed.\n\nThe cat stretches joyously.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the bat to the cat", "response": "> DROPPe(first taking the reticent bat)\nThe bat is too high to jump and catch from the ground.\n\nThe cat turns around three time, flops to the ground and falls asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the snakeskin coat", "response": "You put on the snakeskin coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the snakeskin coat", "response": "(first taking the snakeskin coat off)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the gloves", "response": "BAT)\n\n> THE BAt(first taking the pair of fox-fur gloves)\nYou put on the pair of fox-fur gloves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shrews", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an incredibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a vegan trifle, a snakeskin coat, the resident cat, a bunch of grapes and a rock paperweight here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the shrews to bat", "response": "The reticent bat is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show regular to the bat", "response": "HE CAT STRETCHES JOyThe reticent bat is unimpressed.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an improbably high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a vegan trifle, a snakeskin coat, the resident cat, a bunch of grapes and a rock paperweight here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put regular and the shrews and the gloves in the skip", "response": ">L\n\n> BACK CORRIDOR\n\n> YOU FIND YOURSELF IN A dregular trifle: You throw the regular trifle into the skip.\nfamily of shrews: You throw the family of shrews into the skip.\npair of fox-fur gloves: (first taking it off)\nYou throw the pair of fox-fur gloves into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pork", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skip", "response": "In the skip are a pair of fox-fur gloves, a family of shrews, a regular trifle, a glass of milk, a stuffed echidna, a whale bones, an over-stuffed koala, a stuffed dolphin, a mourning dog, some vaporised remains and a caribou head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an impossibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a vegan trifle, a snakeskin coat, the resident cat, a bunch of grapes and a rock paperweight here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the pork to bat", "response": "ONE POINT.]\n\n> >S\nThe reticent bat is unimpressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "The painting lies in tatters on the floor of the office, revealing a hole in the brickwork behind. Beneath the painting the small office comprises of a small desk, a huge overstuffed chair and mini fridge.\n\nYou can see a pair of secateurs, a crowbar and a hole in the brickwork (empty) here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with a significantly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a vegan trifle, a snakeskin coat, the resident cat, a bunch of grapes and a rock paperweight here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the koala", "response": "]\n\n> >S\n\n> THE You've already cut that!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pork in skip", "response": "You throw the packet of pork scratchings into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na pair of secateurs\nan ocelot coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the ocelot", "response": "(first taking the ocelot coat off)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the chair", "response": "You get onto the huge overstuffed chair.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bat", "response": "Triumphantly, you leap and grasp hold of the bat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the bat to the string", "response": "With the string, you tie the bat to the rock, anchoring the poor bat to the rock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cat", "response": "ING TO BeYou're carrying too many things already.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\nthe resident cat\nan anchored bat\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Back Corridor (on the huge overstuffed chair)\nYou find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an improbably high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a vegan trifle, a snakeskin coat and a bunch of grapes here.\n\nOn the huge overstuffed chair you can see a pair of secateurs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "(first getting off the huge overstuffed chair)\n\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nYou can also see an ocelot coat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You find yourself in a dingy back corridor with an impossibly high ceiling. The way back to the atrium lies through the little door west. The main Holding Room opens up to the east, the curator's office is to south, while north sits a cloak room.\n\nYou can see a vegan trifle, a snakeskin coat and a bunch of grapes here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear snakeskin", "response": "(first taking the snakeskin coat)\nYou put on the snakeskin coat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nYou can also see an ocelot coat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bat in the skip", "response": "NT.]\n\n> >S\n\n> THE YOuYou throw the anchored bat into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cat in the skip", "response": "You throw the resident cat into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the skip", "response": "In the skip are the resident cat, an anchored bat, a packet of pork scratchings, a pair of fox-fur gloves, a family of shrews, a regular trifle, a glass of milk, a stuffed echidna, a whale bones, an over-stuffed koala, a stuffed dolphin, a mourning dog, some vaporised remains and a caribou head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the ocelot", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe cat gets bored of being in the skip and jumps out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the ocelot in the skip", "response": "You throw the ocelot coat into the skip.\n\nThe cat starts lapping at the milk, but then gets bored.\n\nThe cat climbs up the faux-fur ocelot coat, destroying it in no time at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cat in the skip", "response": "(first taking the resident cat)\n\nYou pick her up and she miaows with minor concern.\n\nYou throw the resident cat into the skip.\n\nThe cat gets bored of being in the skip and jumps out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the skip", "response": "[YOUR SCOrYou climb into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You get out of the skip.\n\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.\n\nYou can also see the resident cat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cat", "response": "> THAT'You pick her up and she miaows with minor concern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the skip", "response": "You climb into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the cat", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cat in the skip", "response": "The resident cat is already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na snakeskin coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "You give the whistle a sharp blow, and in moments Patrisnake Ksshss arrives to survey the skip.\n\nHe finds you within the skip and smiles (snakes always smile) as he orders all the contents (including yourself) summarily destroyed.\n\nJust before you are incinerated, Kssshsss congratulates you on finding everything in the museum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You exit", "response": "You get out of the skip.\n\nYou stand in a vast glass-ceilinged atrium. The main doors stand behind you to the south, in front is the rest of the museum. The part that you actually need to clear is through the little door to the back rooms, behind the information desk to the east. The portrait gallery opens off to the west.\n\nIn the centre of the atrium is a huge skip, (or garbage dumpster, if you're so inclined), into which you are to place all objects tainted with mammalian DNA, or direct organic bi-products of mammals. When the job is done, you need only blow the whistle you've been given, and Kssshsss will come and assess your execution of the task.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the snakeskin in the skip", "response": "You throw the snakeskin coat into the skip.\n\nThe cat gets bored of being in the skip and jumps out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cat", "response": "P.\n\n> ATRIuYou pick her up and she miaows with minor concern.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cat in the skip", "response": "You throw the resident cat into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "You give the whistle a sharp blow, and in moments Patrisnake Ksshss arrives to survey the skip.\n\n\"So,\" starts Ksssnsss, \"a magnificent performance, you have found all the mammalian items!\"\n\n\"But you're much too clever by half...\" he says, eating you whole. Lizards are not known for their appreciation of high-achievers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na snakeskin coat (being worn)\na lizard whistle (being worn)\n\nThe cat gets bored of being in the skip and jumps out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cat in the skip", "response": "You throw the resident cat into the skip.\n\nThe cat gets bored of being in the skip and jumps out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the cat in the skip", "response": "(first taking the resident cat)\n\nYou pick her up and she miaows with minor concern.\n\nYou throw the resident cat into the skip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow whistle", "response": "You give the whistle a sharp blow, and in moments Patrisnake Ksshss arrives to survey the skip.\n\n\"So,\" starts Ksssnsss, \"a magnificent performance, you have found all the mammalian items!\"\n\n\"But you're much too clever by half...\" he says, eating you whole. Lizards are not known for their appreciation of high-achievers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The rest of the museum has been cleared already, your job lies in the back room through the little door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are greeted by a sunny day on the steps of the museum. The grand entrance looms up to the north, while steps radiate out in all other directions. Going in such directions would, of course, be highly forbidden.\n\nA dog is mourning here over the vaporised remains of its owner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You really shouldn't stroll off from the museum: that is in direct violation of the commands of your lizard overlords.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You boldly stride beyond the confines of the museum, rebelling against your less-than-benevolent overlords.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Cartoon", "Screen", "Children's" ]

[ "built-in hints", "cartoon", "IF Competition 1995", "IFComp Game", "Included on Activison Masterpieces CD", "male protagonist", "TADS", "TADS 2", "television", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 10, 7, 2, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "A Mini Text-Adventure Game\n\nToonesia is freeware. For information on the legal details of distributing it, please type \"legal\" at any command prompt.\n\nThanks to my beta-testers Lauren Sager, Mike Sager, and Michael Kinyon, and to Whizzard for some last-minute lifesaving and the occasional pun.\n\nAlthough this game is free, I would appreciate a postcard if you particularly enjoy it--or, at least, an e-mail note. My e-mail address is jacobw@cap.gwu.edu. My postal address is:\nJacob Weinstein\n10980 Wellworth Ave, Apt 306\nLos Angeles, CA 90024\n\n\n\nOooh, that rascally rabbit! You were out hunting him when he somehow got the jump on you, blindfolded you, and dumped you into a cell.\nWell, you'll show him. He'll be hasenpfefer by dinner tonight, or your name isn't Elmo Fuld.\n\nYou are in an utterly bare room. The walls are completely\nfeatureless, and there seems to be no way out. Drat that rabbit!\nYou see a purple crayon, a blindfold, and a note here.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at the crayon", "response": "It's a short stub of purple crayon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blindfold", "response": "It's a simple cloth blindfold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the note", "response": "Dear Elmo,\nSorry I've had to lock you up like this, but I'm off to the Fifth Annual Festival of Carrots, and I can't have you chasing after me with a gun. There's no way out of here, so you won't be getting back to your mansion and your yacht anytime soon. But just in case you escape, I've placed your gun in a place you'll never get to.\nAin't I a stinker?\n\nSincerely yours truly,\nBud Bunny", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You draw the door", "response": "What do you want to draw it on?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the crayon", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "purple crayon: Taken.\nblindfold: Taken.\nnote: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You draw the door on the wall", "response": "Since all the walls look alike, you pick one at random and draw a bright purple door on it. Chuck Jones you're not, but it'll do. Unfortunately, in the process, you wear the crayon down to nothing.\n\n* * * Your score just increased by 1 point. * * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "It's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Opened.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the blindfold", "response": "It's a simple cloth blindfold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You look about the same as always.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cap", "response": "It's your trusty hunting cap. You haven't removed it since you first received it as a gift from your Uncle Chuck in 1935--not even to shower.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Exit", "response": "You are in a thick patch of towering redwoods. A path leads west, where the trees grow sparser, and south. Looming over you to the north is the tower in whose base you were so recently imprisoned. From the outside, you can see that the tower looks like a humungous carrot.\n\nOooooooh, you're going to get that rabbit.\nYou see a wooden sign here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the sign", "response": "It looks like this wooden sign originally said \"Duck Season,\" but somebody crossed off the word \"Duck\" and wrote \"Rabbit.\" Then somebody else crossed off the word \"Rabbit\" and wrote \"Duck.\" In fact, the words \"Duck\" and \"Rabbit\" must have been written and crossed off a dozen times each. At the moment, the sign proclaims that it's duck season. This accursed interference in the rights of honest hunters like yourself is signed \"Bruce Babbit, Secretary of the Interior.\" Ooooh, that rascally Babbit!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "The trees look like trees, complete with branch-like branches and leafy leaves. Well, what did you expect?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The trees here are sparser, and the thick moss that covers the\nground seems to be fighting a losing battle with the desert that approaches from the north and the west. Paths lead east and southeast back into the forest.\nThe Tazmanian Devil is here, glaring furiously (and hungrily) at you from within the bars of a metal cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the taz", "response": "The Tazmanian Devil is a real animal, not a copyright of a certain large corporation with lots of legal muscle. I can therefore mention it by name in this game. Unfortunately, if I were to describe a real-life Tazmanian Devil, you'd only be disappointed--they don't look like much. So, I won't describe the slavering beast before you. And if you assume that it has a boxy body attached to short thin legs, two large maniacal eyes set above a wide, drooling, sharp-fanged mouth, and brown fur all over, then YOU'RE violating copyright, not me. At any rate, the Tazmanian Devil is safely locked away within a sturdy metal cage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "It's a sturdy metal cage. Inside it, and trying desperately to get out, is a Tazmanian Devil. Fortunately, it's closed. Through the bars, you can see what looks like a thin metal pipe--the top of a chimney, perhaps--protruding through the ground.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pipe", "response": "It looks like the top of a chimney.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lock", "response": "What do you want to lock?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go southeast", "response": "You are standing deep within the woods. A thick roof of leaves\nblocks most sunlight from entering, and a thick wall of treetrunks blocks you from exiting in most directions. You can squeeze through to the north and the northwest, where the forest seems to grow less dense.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trees", "response": "The trees look like trees, complete with branch-like branches and leafy leaves. Well, what did you expect?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the trees", "response": "You are Elmo Fuld, millionaire. You hire men to chop down trees and ship them to your processing plants. You do not climb them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You stand on the cornered edge of a cliff, above a brown-and-grey-painted canyon that stretches down far enough to create a sort of vertical horizon. Pulling your eyes upward before the sight makes you topple over, you see a thin mesa jutting out of the depths of the canyon, a few hundred yards to your west. To your east is the edge of a forest that seems to be fighting a losing battle with the desert in which you stand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the canyon", "response": "The beautiful canyon stretches as far as you can see.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mesa", "response": "The thin mesa juts out of the canyon a few hundred yards to your west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You stagger blindly in that direction.\n\nYou can't see anything with the blindfold on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the blindfold", "response": "You take off the blindfold, and look around...\n\nYou are standing in the middle of the air. There is nothing below\nyour feet.\n\nWell, more precisely,there is nothing IMMEDIATELY below your feet. Several thousand yards below your feet happens to be a canyon floor. Fortunately, we don't need to be too precise about these things, since the ground is going to be immediately below your feet in just a few moments. And shortly after that, you are going to be just below the ground. Have a nice trip.\n\nSuddenly, it occurs to you that you are standing in mid-air with no means of support. After plummetting downward for a full thirty seconds, you encounter the rough desert sand below. After plummetting through the rough desert sand for a full half hour, you come to a complete stop. Fortunately, as a 'toon, you can't be killed by the fall. Unfortunately, your chin is relocated to within half an inch of your ankle, leaving you no room to hold your gun and making future hunting impossible. Looks like that rascally rabbit has finally gotten rid of you for good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You stagger blindly in that direction.\n\nYou can't see anything with the blindfold on.\n\nSuddenly, it occurs to you that you are standing in mid-air with no means of support. You plummet rapidly downward and land with a crash.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the blindfold", "response": "You take off the blindfold, and look around...\n\ndirection would send you plummeting to an untimely end. The cliff that surrounds the canyon approaches from infinity to the northwest and southwest, coming to a point a few hundred yards to your west. From here, you can see another small ledge clinging to the side of the cliff about twenty yards below the point where the two cliff walls meet.\nYou see a gun here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gun", "response": "It's your trusty gun. You've missed many a fine specimen with it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gun", "response": "* * * Your score just increased by 1 point. * * *\n\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the gun", "response": "You already have your gun!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fire gun", "response": "You fire your gun in the air with a satisfying KABOOM, sending a huge puff of smoke out of the barrel. Being a toon gun, it immediately reloads itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "What do you want to listen to?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "direction would send you plummeting to an untimely end. The cliff that surrounds the canyon approaches from infinity to the northwest and southwest, coming to a point a few hundred yards to your west. From here, you can see another small ledge clinging to the side of the cliff about twenty yards below the point where the two cliff walls meet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You stagger blindly in that direction.\n\nYou can't see anything with the blindfold on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take off the blindfold", "response": "You take off the blindfold, and look around...\n\nYou are in a comfortable and cozy rabbit warren, lit dimly by the\nlight that filters in from the hole to your west. There are a few scattered pieces of battered furniture here, including an overstuffed sofa and a large wooden wardrobe, as well as some pictures nailed into the dirt walls. Against one wall is a kitchenette: a stove, a refrigerator, and a table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "cliff walls. It's just wide enough to keep gravity's dirty paws off you. To your west, several hundred yards away, you can see a narrow mesa. A hole leads east, into the cliff face.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in a comfortable and cozy rabbit warren, lit dimly by the\nlight that filters in from the hole to your west. There are a few scattered pieces of battered furniture here, including an overstuffed sofa and a large wooden wardrobe, as well as some pictures nailed into the dirt walls. Against one wall is a kitchenette: a stove, a refrigerator, and a table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pictures", "response": "The pictures include a photo of Bud Bunny at a party with Chuck Jones, Fritz Freleng, Tex Avery, and Mel Blanc; a reproduction of the famous painting, \"The Assumption of St. Peter Rabbit;\" and an autographed photo of Dick Cavett. Seeing the last of these reminds you of the humiliation you suffered as a guest on his show; unbeknownst to you, the talk show host had arranged for your fellow guests to be the president of Handgun Control, Inc, and the vice-chairman of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Ooooh, that rascally Cavett!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fridge", "response": "The refrigerator is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opening the refrigerator reveals a lettuce sandwich and a steak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all from the fridge", "response": "lettuce sandwich: Taken.\nsteak: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the fridge", "response": "Closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "It's an unpretentious wooden table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the steak", "response": "It's a big, succulant, raw hunk of meat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine sandwich", "response": "It's a piece of lettuce between two slices of carrot bread.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stove", "response": "It's a simple stove, consisting of a metal surface and an on-off switch. A metal chimney above the cooking surface helps get rid of cooking smells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the chimney", "response": "It's a narrow metal chimney, meant to help remove cooking odors from the warren.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wardrobe", "response": "Looking closely at the wardrobe, you see that it seems to have been carved out of a large treetrunk that has sunk deep into the walls of the warren. Currently, the wardrobe is closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the wardrobe", "response": "Opening the large wooden wardrobe reveals a Hawaiian shirt, a baseball cap, and a cologne bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shirt", "response": "This is a large, bright Hawaiian shirt. Amongst the loud colors is a logo that says, \"Hotel Wakalakamakakadasakikikaki.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all from the wardrobe", "response": "Hawaiian shirt: Taken.\nbaseball cap: Taken.\ncologne bottle: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cap", "response": "Which cap do you mean, the hunting cap, or the baseball cap?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Baseball", "response": "It's a Brooklyn Dodgers cap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear all", "response": "hunting cap: You're already wearing the hunting cap!\nblindfold: Okay, you're now wearing the blindfold.\nnote: You can't do anything with the blindfold on.\nyour gun: You can't do anything with the blindfold on.\nlettuce sandwich: You can't do anything with the blindfold on.\nsteak: You can't do anything with the blindfold on.\nHawaiian shirt: You can't do anything with the blindfold on.\nbaseball cap: You can't do anything with the blindfold on.\ncologne bottle: You can't do anything with the blindfold on.\nbattered furniture: You can't do anything with the blindfold on. kitchenette: You can't do anything with the blindfold on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "According to the label, the orange liquid inside is \"Eau de Carrotte.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sofa", "response": "The sofa is covered with a garish carrot-patterned fabric.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the stove", "response": "You turn on the stove, and it heats up instantly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the steak on the stove", "response": "The steak begins to sizzle as soon as it hits the metal surface of the stove. Within moments, a delicious smell begins to fill the room. As you watch the smell waves waft up through the metal chimney, you hear what sounds like a dentist's drill begin to whir above your head. Suddenly, a sizable chunk of the dirt ceiling collapses about you and a giant slobbering blur descends into the room. When the blur stops whirling, you realize that it is the Tazmanian Devil. It grabs the steak from the stovetop and begins wolfing it down. You estimate that you have a couple of seconds before it finishes the steak and notices you.\n\n* * * Your score just increased by 1 point. * * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The Tazmanian Devil is standing directly beneath the hole that he made when he came in. There's no way you can go up without climbing on him, and something tells you he wouldn't like that.\n\nThe Tazmanian Devil has eaten about half of the steak by now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the cap to Devil", "response": "The Tazmanian devil accepts the baseball cap, nearly biting your fingers off in the process. In a moment, the baseball cap has vanished down its throat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the chimney", "response": "I don't know how to climb the metal chimney.\n\nThe Tazmanian Devil has eaten almost all the steak. At any moment, he's going to finish it up and start looking for something else to eat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Shout", "response": "Your throat is a bit sore now.\n\nThe Tazmanian Devil has eaten almost all the steak. At any moment, he's going to finish it up and start looking for something else to eat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the cologne", "response": "You splash some cologne on yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You have a hunting cap (being worn), a blindfold, a note, a gun, a lettuce sandwich, a Hawaiian shirt (being worn), a baseball cap, and a cologne bottle.\n\nWith a final slobbering gulp, the Tazmanian Devil swallows the last of the meat. He lets out a belch and, for one brief moment, appears sated. Then the moment passes, and his huge head swivels around, his hungry eyes coming to focus on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the sandwich", "response": "You can't wear the lettuce sandwich.\n\nWith a final slobbering gulp, the Tazmanian Devil swallows the last of the meat. He lets out a belch and, for one brief moment, appears sated. Then the moment passes, and his huge head swivels around, his hungry eyes coming to focus on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the table", "response": "Pulling the table doesn't have any effect.\n\nWith a final slobbering gulp, the Tazmanian Devil swallows the last of the meat. He lets out a belch and, for one brief moment, appears sated. Then the moment passes, and his huge head swivels around, his hungry eyes coming to focus on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give sandwich to the taz", "response": "The Tazmanian Devil sniffs the sandwich, then growls menacingly at you. Evidently, it doesn't like vegetables.\n\nWith a final slobbering gulp, the Tazmanian Devil swallows the last of the meat. He lets out a belch and, for one brief moment, appears sated. Then the moment passes, and his huge head swivels around, his hungry eyes coming to focus on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes...\n\nThe Tazmanian Devil lunges for you and, with a few swift bites, swallows you. As you stew helplessly in his stomach, you find yourself wishing that 'toons weren't quite so indestructable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour cologne on the taz", "response": "That would be unwise.\n\nWith a final slobbering gulp, the Tazmanian Devil swallows the last of the meat. He lets out a belch and, for one brief moment, appears sated. Then the moment passes, and his huge head swivels around, his hungry eyes coming to focus on you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the cologne", "response": "You splash some cologne on yourself.\n\nThe Tazmanian Devil lunges for you. As he flies through the air toward you, he suddenly catches a whiff of your carrot cologne. He stops in mid-air and hangs there for a moment, looking confused. Then he crashes to the ground. He gets up and lumbers over to you, sniffing you closely. Evidently, he doesn't like what he smells, for he lets out an outraged bellow and then whirls out the hole in the ceiling, presumably in search of more meat.\n\n* * * Your score just increased by 1 point. * * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "You climb on the table and clamber through the hole.\n\nYou are inside a sturdy metal cage. A rough-hewn hole leads\ndownward. The trees surrounding the cage are sparse, and the thick moss that covers the ground seems to be fight a losing battle with the desert that approaches from the north and the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cage", "response": "You can't. It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock cage", "response": "You unlock the cage door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cage", "response": "You are in a sturdy metal cage. Currently, it's closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open cage", "response": "You open the cage door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cage", "response": "You are in a sturdy metal cage. Currently, it's open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "The trees here are sparser, and the thick moss that covers the\nground seems to be fighting a losing battle with the desert that approaches from the north and the west. Paths lead east and southeast back into the forest. A large metal cage stands empty here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You stand in the middle of a huge desert, north of a stand of struggling trees and west of a deep cave. As you stand staring into the vast darkness that lies within the cavern, a strange smell on the wind makes your nose twitch. You pause for a moment and recognize it. It's the smell of wealth.\nDizzy Duck is here, rubbing his hands with greedy glee.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the cap to Duck", "response": "\"No, thankth, my dear thir.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Daffy", "response": "There is no \"Daffy Duck\" in this game--only \"Dizzy Duck.\" Are you trying to get me in trouble?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at dizzy", "response": "Dizzy is a daffy-looking duck. Currently, he's running his hands through a wheelbarrow full of jewels.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "What do you want to smell?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jewels", "response": "You don't have a chance to examine the vast array of glittering jewels because Dizzy throws himself across the wheelbarrow as soon as he sees you eyeing them. \"Don't even think about it,\" he sputters.\n\nDizzy lunches into an off-key rendition of \"Hello, My Ragtime Gal.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the jewels", "response": "As you reach for the jewels, Dizzy floors you with a right wing to the jaw that lays you out flat. \"Thorry, bub,\" he says, as little birdies momentarily fly around your head. \"Don't know what came over me.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot dizzy", "response": "As you raise the gun, Dizzy sticks his finger in the barrel. \"Thorry, Charlie, it'th rabbit theathon.\" Embarrassed, you lower the gun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The trees here are sparser, and the thick moss that covers the\nground seems to be fighting a losing battle with the desert that approaches from the north and the west. Paths lead east and southeast back into the forest. A large metal cage stands empty here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "It looks like this wooden sign originally said \"Duck Season,\" but somebody crossed off the word \"Duck\" and wrote \"Rabbit.\" Then somebody else crossed off the word \"Rabbit\" and wrote \"Duck.\" In fact, the words \"Duck\" and \"Rabbit\" must have been written and crossed off a dozen times each. At the moment, the sign proclaims that it's duck season. This accursed interference in the rights of honest hunters like yourself is signed \"Bruce Babbit, Secretary of the Interior.\" Ooooh, that rascally Babbit!\n\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sign", "response": "You already have the wooden sign!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are standing deep within the woods. A thick roof of leaves\nblocks most sunlight from entering, and a thick wall of treetrunks blocks you from exiting in most directions. You can squeeze through to the north and the northwest, where the forest seems to grow less dense.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sign to duck", "response": "Dizzy sticks his finger in the barrel of your gun and grins cockily at you. \"You thee, thir, you can't thyoot a duck in rabbit--\" Then he looks once again at the sign you're carrying and turns as pale as he can, considering that he's covered with jet-black feathers. \"Oooh, that rabbit. He'th dethpicable!\" In a swift blur, Dizzy vanishes, taking the wheelbarrow full of jewels with him. Moments later, he returns, crosses out the word \"Duck,\" replaces it with \"Rabbit,\" and, just to be on the safe side, vanishes again.\n\n* * * Your score just increased by 1 point. * * *", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You stand in the middle of a huge desert, north of a stand of struggling trees and west of a deep cave. As you stand staring into the vast darkness that lies within the cavern, a strange smell on the wind makes your nose twitch. You pause for a moment and recognize it. It's the smell of wealth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "As you enter the mine, you hear a rumbling from deep within. Suddenly, a bump appears on the eastern edge of your vision. It rapidly extends itself west, becoming a thick ridge that runs out the door.\n\nYou are inside a vast cave that vanishes into darkess on all sides, except for the entrance to the west. The lush carpet of wealth contained herein is enough to make even you, Elmo Fuld, millionaire, gasp. A narrow beam of sharp desert light flows in from outside and reflects off a ruck of rubies, from where it bounces off into brood of beryl, heads for a heap of heliotrope, crashes into a clot of carnelian, hurries to a hunk of hyacinth, bashes into a battillion of bloodstone, careens into a cohort of carbuncle, makes for a murmuration of moonstone, and, completely zonked, catches some z's in a crowded zareba of cubic zirconium.\nYou see a ancient lamp and a ridge in the ground running from east\nto west here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "It's an oil lamp. Through the thick tarnish that has covered the lamp's bronze surface in the ages since it was created, you can see intricate Arabian swirls, gracefully etched.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ridge", "response": "The ridge is a thick lump in the ground, running from east to west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub lamp", "response": "You rub the lamp, removing a little bit of tarnish. Nothing else happens.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rub lamp", "response": "Nothing happens.\n\nSuddenly, a thick plume of smoke bellows out of the mouth of the lamp. When it clears, a magnificent genii stands before you. He starts out huge, with a massive purple turban crowning an Easter-Island-sized head, and tapers down through his massive shoulders, his muscular torso, his trim waist, his slender legs, his narrow knees, and his pin-sized ankles, which are crammed into the mouth of the lamp above which he floats.\n\"Sorry I'm a little late,\" he says. \"I was on another line.\nAnyway, you've rescued me from my eternal prison, therefore I'm honor bound to give you three wishes, yadda yadda yadda. So, what do you want? Bet you were going to ask for a magic helmet, weren't you?\" He tosses you one. \"This helmet gives you command of the east and west winds. Just say 'west winds, blow' or 'east winds, blow' and they'll do so. Neat, huh? OK, what else do you want? If you don't say anything, I'll assume you don't want any more wishes and I'm free to go about my business.\" He pauses for an infinitesimal fraction of a second. \"OK. I guess you don't want anything. Always a pleasure to meet somebody so contented with his lot. Ta ta.\" In another puff of smoke, he vanishes, leaving you clutching the helmet.\n\n* * * Your score just increased by 1 point. * * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "It looks like something out of a Wagner opera.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the jewels", "response": "As you reach down to pick up a gem off the huge pile, you recall something your accountant said to you yesterday: \"Mr. Fuld, right now, you're in the nine-nine-point-nine-percent tax bracket. If your value increases by more than a thousand dollars before the end of the fiscal year, you'll be in the one hundred percent bracket, and you'll have to give everything you own to the government.\" Since any one gem in this mine would be worth several thousand at least, you realize that your tax bracket prevents you from taking anything out of here (except that obviously worthless old lamp).\n\nOooh, that rascally bracket!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "You are inside a vast cave that vanishes into darkess on all sides, except for the entrance to the west. The lush carpet of wealth contained herein is enough to make even you, Elmo Fuld, millionaire, gasp. A narrow beam of sharp desert light flows in from outside and reflects off a ruck of rubies, from where it bounces off into brood of beryl, heads for a heap of heliotrope, crashes into a clot of carnelian, hurries to a hunk of hyacinth, bashes into a battillion of bloodstone, careens into a cohort of carbuncle, makes for a murmuration of moonstone, and, completely zonked, catches some z's in a crowded zareba of cubic zirconium.\nYou see a ridge in the ground running from east to west here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You take a step into the vast darkness of the mine, but you realize that, without a light source, you risk plummeting into an unseen shaft. Better not risk it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow", "response": "The East Winds blow furiously for a moment, then subside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You stand in the middle of a huge desert, north of a stand of struggling trees and west of a deep cave. As you stand staring into the vast darkness that lies within the cavern, a strange smell on the wind makes your nose twitch. You pause for a moment and recognize it. It's the smell of wealth.\nYou see a ridge in the ground running from west to south here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell wealth", "response": "I don't understand that sentence.\n\nI don't see any wealth here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The trees here are sparser, and the thick moss that covers the\nground seems to be fighting a losing battle with the desert that approaches from the north and the west. Paths lead east and southeast back into the forest. A large metal cage stands empty here.\nYou see a ridge in the ground running from north to east here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are in a thick patch of towering redwoods. A path leads west, where the trees grow sparser, and south. Looming over you to the north is the tower in whose base you were so recently imprisoned. From the outside, you can see that the tower looks like a humungous carrot.\n\nOooooooh, you're going to get that rabbit.\nYou see a ridge in the ground running from west to south here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You are standing deep within the woods. A thick roof of leaves\nblocks most sunlight from entering, and a thick wall of treetrunks blocks you from exiting in most directions. You can squeeze through to the north and the northwest, where the forest seems to grow less dense. There's a hole in the ground, but it's too narrow for you to fit through.\nYou see a ridge in the ground running from the south and ending in a hole here.\nBud Bunny is here.\n\n\"It's so thoughtful of you not to have shot me yet,\" Bud says. \"I could just kiss you.\" He throws his furry arms around you, plants a huge kiss on your lips, and then goes back to scrutinizing his map.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the map", "response": "It's a large map of the United States, covered with an elaborate route marked in purple crayon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow", "response": "The West Winds blow furiously for a moment, then subside.\n\n\"It's so thoughtful of you not to have shot me yet,\" Bud says. \"I could just kiss you.\" He throws his furry arms around you, plants a huge kiss on your lips, and then goes back to scrutinizing his map.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Bud", "response": "Like all rabbits, Bud is buck-toothed, big-eared, and roughly six feet tall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot bud", "response": "As you raise the gun, Bud sticks his finger in the barrel. \"Sorry, Doc, it's duck season.\" Embarrassed, you lower the gun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the sign to Bud", "response": "Bud looks at the sign, blinks for a moment, and then says \"If you'll excuse me, I believe I've left a pot on the boil.\" Before you can react, he leaps in the air, executes a neat flip, and dives headfirst into the hole.\"\n\n* * * Your score just increased by 1 point. * * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "It's a narrow dark hole.\n\nSuddenly, like Venus arising from the waves, a vision of loveliness pops out of the hole. She has the largest curves, the sweetest breath, and the merriest eyes you've ever seen, all combined into one six-foot-tall package. And, most attractive of all, the has a thick mane of beautiful blond hair. You are overcome with love and desire. You can think of nothing better than wedding her and devoting the rest of your life to making her happy, even if she does have buck teeth and big floppy ears. \"Eh, what's up, dear?\" she asks, in a faintly Southern lilt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss woman", "response": "The woman slaps you. \"Not on the first date!\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow", "response": "The West Winds blow fiercely for a moment, setting the woman's beautiful blond hair just a little bit askew. You stare at it suspiciously as you realize it may be a wig--but you decide that, unless the hair comes off completely, you will trust your newfound love.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow", "response": "The East Winds blow fiercely, ripping the woman's beautiful blond hair off entirely. As it goes sailing off into the distance, you realize with a shock that this vision of loveliness is none other than Bud Bunny. Oh, cruel, cruel fate! Oh, to have love so near, then snatched away! Ooooh--in short-- that rascally rabbit!\n\n* * * Your score just increased by 1 point. * * *", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot bud", "response": "You lift the gun to shoot Bud. He stands bravely at attention. \"Go ahead, shoot me, Doc,\" he says. \"I don't deserve to live.\" As you are about to pull the trigger, a single tear cascades down his cheek, smudging his mascara and making you hesitate for a moment, gun in mid-air.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot bud", "response": "You steel your nerve to pull the trigger. \"What are you waiting for, Doc?\" Bud asks you. \"Just shoot. Try not to think about the wife and fifteen little ones whose lives depend on me.\" You pause. Can you really make fifteen litte ones starve just so you can dine on hasenpfefer?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot bud", "response": "All right. This time you're going to do it. As your finger tenses on the trigger, Bud, who has been quietly sniffling, suddenly breaks out into full fledged tears. \"Go ahead, Doc,\" he bawls. \"Put me out of my misery. Put a bullet in my brain. Forget about all laws of human kindness, I beg you, and shoot me. What does it matter if you'll be hated, mocked, ostracized, even, for shooting a helpless beast? You'll be doing me a favor. Surely you're not so selfish as to condemn me to a lifetime of guilt over my cruel trick just because you'll have to endure a lifetime of humilation for shooting me.\" You stop and consider the image that Bud has painted for you. Is a single meal worth destroying your life?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot bud", "response": "Drat that rabbit! He's just playing with your mind. Well, you're going to shoot him. You close your eyes so you can't see his tears. You pull down your hunting cap over your ears so you can't hear his sobs. You raise the gun and pull the trigger--but at that very moment, the game warden runs up and knocks the gun out of your hands. As you open your eyes and stare at him in frustration, he shrugs. \"Sorry, Mr. Fuld. It's now roadrunner season. If you had only fired a few minutes earlier...\"\n\"Bud's tears vanish in an instant. \"Sorry about that, Doc,\" he\nsays, grabbing your hand and shaking it wildly up and down. \"Better luck next season. Good luck hunting roadrunners. Been a pleasure doing business with you. Ta ta. Don't forget to write. Don't let the bedbugs bite. Don't take any wooden nickles. Look both ways before crossing the street. Say hi to the missus for me.\" With that, he strides off, leaving you to fume for yet another year.\n\n* * * Your score just increased by 2 points.* * *\n\nIn a total of 161 turns, you have achieved a score of 10 points out of a possible 10.\nThis makes you Worthy Of The Memory of Mel Blanc.\nThanks for visiting Toonesia. Th-th-th-that's all, folks!\n\nWell, what did you expect in a cartoon--a satisfying ending?", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Fantasy" ]

[ "moon", "nonhuman protagonist", "parser", "SpeedIF December 2008" ]

[ 1, 6, 3, 1, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Nobody told you stardom would be this boring. You thought the five-year wait just to get into the sky was bad, but at least you had an earth to occupy yourself with, humans doddering around like dust - rather amusing dust. You haven't seen humans on the moon in forever. You've seen nothing, in fact, but the same dull rocks in the same musty craters, and the stars who made it to the sky saying don't worry, it'll be your turn soon, everyone gets their chance, stay pretty, you should really shine more.\n\nYou have to admit, though, he was right. Your turn came. A leap second, your time to plunge off this rock into their sky, stop clocks, fulfill a few wishes if you have to, and dazzle everyone who watches - that, or miss the landing and live the rest of your life swaddled by a cold ocean. Your debut: all the stars do it.\n\nThe sky is cold. Midnight is soon. Leap time.\n\nWell, it's private, at least. They assured you of this. It's a crumbly gray hole dug into a gray field, yes, and the air's choked with dust. You can't move without kicking up a new cloud and blinding yourself for a few seconds, not that there'd be much to miss. But at least people can't see you here. Even if someone down below were to look at the sky when you were out of your trench, they'd merely see a shiny speck. Windows get them all the time. Nothing to dwell upon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at myself", "response": "They could have given you more time to prepare. The fringe in your hair is all knotted and doesn't resemble clouds or gossamer so much as lint strings.\nYour wings are all wrong; against even the slightest breeze they'd split like tissue. Your face is clouded over with that miserable moon dust. It still shows, no matter how much iridescent paint you use. Fortunately, humans aren't star connoisseurs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dust", "response": "You live in this: gray filth which gets into everything and makes it dull.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the wings", "response": "They give every star a pair of wings - ornaments, yes, but the useful kind. They glisten when you flap them; from below, it looks like twinkling. A neat trick, that. Unfortunately, your time came before you could grow them out enough. You can only glow a little bit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Glow", "response": "You flutter your wings a bit, working up a pretty glow, then immediately worry. What if someone saw you? The moon isn't supposed to shine like this, not even on New Year's.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "You lift your wings and, with painstaking effort, flap into the air. You're horribly out of practice, though, and without any real reason to hang around in the sky, are forced to touch down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleep", "response": "If a star fell asleep, she'd quickly burn holes through her skin. So they don't.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Stars sing beautifully in movies, but Hollywood didn't take into account that vocal muscles atrophy just like everything else. You sound more like a dying yak than an angel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "You whisper the magic word, eliciting not even so much as a shudder from your wings. But then, you expected that. You're the magical thing; you don't get to use it yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You waddle back and forth, waving your wings in a parody of dancing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You think", "response": "Visions of planetary collisionsswim through your head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Well, it's private, at least. They assured you of this. It's a crumbly gray hole dug into a gray field, yes, and the air's choked with dust. You can't move without kicking up a new cloud and blinding yourself for a few seconds, not that there'd be much to miss. But at least people can't see you here. Even if someone down below were to look at the sky when you were out of your trench, they'd merely see a shiny speck. Windows get them all the time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You flutter out of the crater, mussying your streamers a bit on the dust walls.\n\nThey name everything up here like they would down below. So this area, silent and blank in all directions, they call a field, despite the lack of vegetation. There's nothing around under the horizon but gray dirt, and flat sky, and you. The only thing breaking the monotony is something raised to the west, and your crater, a few steps away. Above you, stars stand in their places, too far away to recognize; looming in front of them all is the earth, almost close enough to touch. There's no coverage from it; anyone could see you from there, a shiny speck tossed into the dust like something misplaced.. Perhaps people won't mind. The moon is shining awfully bright tonight, they'll say, resuming their affairs, your light as sanction. It's the night for it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the earth", "response": "You expected it to be more spherical, but it's not; more like the cross-section of an egg. A lot smaller than you thought, too, and less blue. It doesn't give you much hope for your landing, that's for sure.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the stars", "response": "The lucky ones who succeeded in their leap and earned their place in the sky, to shine forever for all to see. You fight back a pang of jealousy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The field parts here, unexpectedly, to accommodate a small platform. They call it a mesa, the geographical term, but there's nothing natural about it. The slope leading up is too carved, too precise, and the edges are cut too well against the night sky. It seems to repel everything; the dust is gathered in a moat around it, the craters leave a perimeter, and even the stars duck away from it. It's a clear jump, from there, up to the earth. Or so the others say. Your site continues a ways to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leap", "response": "You arch your back, just like they taught you, lift your arms, face, chest, and leap, but you can't get enough height. Maybe if there was something to stand on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the mesa", "response": "You flutter up onto the center of the pad. The sky looks so much... bigger from up here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leap", "response": "They told you the first leap would be the hardest; you'd get used to it, it'd be easy. Small comfort; the more you look at the earth, the more it seems to scoot away, taunting you. Now or never, you guess. You arch your back, just like they taught you; lift your arms, face, chest; bend your knees, throw back your head, breath held and hands upon air; close your eyes, and leap.\n\nThe fringe on your head flares, catches the air, and you expand, lurching over the back of gravity and plummeting up, past the atmosphere, past gray and black and down into blue, clouds, tumbling, every part of you doused with glitter. It must look pretty from down there.\n\nBut they never mentioned this much tumbling, actually. They never told you what clouds could do. You didn't know they could bruise, or rattle you, or do anything, really, but hang static in the sky. It isn't working, you think, you're out of formation, you can't correct yourself or slow the descent. You don't have a star's chance in a black hole of surviving and there are buildings on your eyes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "You look around. Desolate. Nothing but a building and the sky you came from. You landed, but there's something itching at your back. Getting to your feet, you realize its source. You lost a wing coming down. You can't fly back without it. Wishes are out of the question, too - if anyone sees you like this, tattered and sore, it's over. Something else is strange, too. You feel it under your feet, something too supple below the ground. The earth isn't spinning like it should, and it's probably your fault. You've got to get back into the sky before they decide to kick you out of orbit.\n\nEarth looked so much more... verdant from above. You'd forgotten that beneath the pearl blue and clouds, it looks more like this: square buildings stacked on concrete like boxes in a garage. The ground is cracked, as are the bricks of the building. Puddles have collected by the cracks, grayer than water should be. A sign by a metal door reads ~TRUCKS ONLY~, but it's far too late for any to be around; the door's closed anyway. Power lines stretch across the air, parceling off the stars lucky enough not to be here. In the distance, you see some dumpsters to the west. All in all, you'd prefer the bottom of the ocean.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wings", "response": "They give every star a pair of wings - ornaments, yes, but the useful kind. They glisten when you flap them; from below, it looks like twinkling. A neat trick, that. You've lost one of yours, though, and the other one isn't looking so great. Twinkling is out of the question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "One of those industrial doors that roll up and down, made of metal plates.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the building", "response": "There's no way in except the door, and it's firmly shut.\n\nEverything's too still. The trees, the buildings, even the air. How much time was supposed to have passed by now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the puddles", "response": "It must have rained earlier. It'd explain all these puddles, still on the ground and leaving no crack empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Some powdery stardust spills from your fringe as you walk.\n\nNothing accentuates dingy concrete and abandoned buildings quite like dumpsters. There are three of them, and their odor hangs ripe in the air. The lot is empty of anything else but cement. A thatch of trees encroaches upon the ground to the west, and the lot continues to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the dumpsters", "response": "You root around in one of the dumpsters, steeling yourself against the stench. After a few miserable minutes, you come up with a battered snowglobe. Must've been damaged merchandise.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snowglobe", "response": "You've heard there's an art to snowglobe-making: finding or making beautiful baubles to nestle in a sweet winter scene. This snowglobe is a dented plastic ball. A bloated toy soldier squats among what looks suspiciously like crumpled paper. Lovely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na snowglobe", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Maybe \"woods\" is the wrong word. Even at this hour, you can tell that the trees are too sparse to deserve the label. Standing firewood, really, gray under a dark gray sky. There's not much else around but a barren parking lot to the east.\n\nBy a tree, a girl plays with something shiny.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine girl", "response": "A small girl - it's hard to tell age when you measure your life by the century. She has stiff -- almost sculpted -- brown curls and is dressed in what resembles a ruffly pink lampshade.\n\nThe girl looks up and sees you, fringe, paint, wing and all. \"Hi,\" she says. \"Are you an angel?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the girl", "response": "A small girl - it's hard to tell age when you measure your life by the century. She has stiff -- almost sculpted -- brown curls and is dressed in what resembles a ruffly pink lampshade.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"Yes,\" you lie, sheepishly. Your squawky voice seems to startle her, but the lie works.\n\n\"Oh. I'm Sylvia.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "You've already had your greetings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at shiny", "response": "It's shiny, with iridescent dust scattered across its surface. Kind of like your wing - wait. It is your wing. And she's got it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the girl for the wing", "response": "\"Hey. That toy you're playing with? I really need that back. Like, now.\"\n\n\"I thought angels were supposed to be nice.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "No", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the girl about the wing", "response": "\"Please. That's mine. It fell off when I... landed here. I can't fly without it.\"\n\n\"You can have it but can you grant me a wish?.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the girl about the wish", "response": "\"I can grant you a wish. You have a wish, right?\"\n\nSylvia closes her eyes. \"Snow,\" she intones. Damn. You were hoping it was something easy, like a pony. Something less noticeable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the globe to the girl", "response": "\"Here,\" you say. \"You can have this.\"\n\nSylvia takes the snowglobe from your hands, dropping your wing. She peers at it, tapping the plastic a few times and flipping it over slowly. \"I guess this is kind of like snow,\" she starts. \"Thanks.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the wing", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the wing", "response": "You press the wing to your back; instantly, it affixes itself to your skin, with small bursts of pain as it breaks the surface. Sylvia looks away, peeking every few seconds -- fortunately, there never was much blood in the process.\n\nOnce it's finished, you test the wings. Not as sturdy as before, certainly not pretty, but they should last for a flight or two.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leap", "response": "You jump, like they taught you: every part of you poised, just like before. Without your wing, though, you don't get far.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "They could have given you more time to prepare. The fringe in your hair is all knotted and doesn't resemble clouds or gossamer so much as lint strings.\nYour wings are all wrong; against even the slightest breeze they'd split like tissue. Your face is clouded over with that miserable moon dust. It still shows, no matter how much iridescent paint you use. Fortunately, humans aren't star connoisseurs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fly", "response": "You crouch low, spread your arms, then your wings, and leap into the air. Sylvia waves at your retreating form, silently.\n\nThe ascent is easy; you land on the moon's surface without a hitch. After that, it's another story. You heard judgment was tough. Every hour until the rulers arrive, you tug at your fringe and ruffle your wings anew, preening yourself until it doesn't look like you took a fall. Maybe they weren't watching that time.\n\nWhatever you did, it worked. When they arrive, it's with nothing but praise. You're gorgeous, they said; leap time has never been better. And when they cast you into the sky, wingless and sparkling, it's all you can think of for millennia.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Horror" ]

[ "cover art", "EctoComp 2013", "gender-neutral protagonist", "ghost", "NightFloyd transcript", "parser", "SpeedIF", "systematic puzzles", "Xyzzy Awards 2013" ]

[ 1, 10, 8, 3, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "\"Haunted?\"\n\nThe caretaker grimaces. \"A year since you visited, you say? Some hooligans smashed the mausoleum up a month back. Since then, well, I'm the only one who'll go near it. And I don't care to stay long. See for yourself if you like, and I'll collect you in the morning.\"\n\nPoor Thurnley. No rest even in the tomb.\n\nType ABOUT for more information about this game.\n\nVisitors used to sit on the bench here to contemplate their mortality. Apparently the reminders of their mortality have become all too great. A marble door leads inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Older than you once were.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "Visitors used to sit on the bench here to contemplate their mortality. Apparently the reminders of their mortality have become all too great. A marble door leads inside.\n\nYou feel a chill. There is no wind, but the leaves fly up from the bench and twirl in the air. Somehow they describe a faintly human shape.\n\nThere was a key under the leaves on the bench.\n\nThe leaves swirl as if the ghost is looking at something it is carrying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward yourself as if the form within them is peering at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ghost", "response": "Leaves whirl and flutter without falling, around a disturbance in the air that takes a vaguely human shape.\n\nThe ghost looks around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the ghost about the key", "response": "There is no reply.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward the iron key as though to take it from you. As they brush your hand, you fall to the floor in a dead faint.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Visitors used to sit on the bench here to contemplate their mortality. Apparently the reminders of their mortality have become all too great. A marble door leads inside.\n\nYou can see the ghost here.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward the iron key as though to take it from you. As they brush your hand, you fall to the floor in a dead faint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inside", "response": "(first opening the marble door)\nIt seems to be locked.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward the iron key as though to take it from you. As they brush your hand, you fall to the floor in a dead faint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the leaves", "response": "An iron key is under the leaves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou feel a chill. There is no wind, but the leaves fly up from the bench and twirl in the air. Somehow they describe a faintly human shape.\n\nThe ghost waits.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the key", "response": "You unlock the marble door.\n\nThe leaves swirl as if looking under the bench.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine leaves", "response": "Leaves whirl and flutter without falling, around a disturbance in the air that takes a vaguely human shape.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward the iron key as though to take it from you. As they brush your hand, you fall to the floor in a dead faint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under bench", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward the iron key as though to take it from you. As they brush your hand, you fall to the floor in a dead faint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inside", "response": "(first opening the marble door)\n\nWhen you were here last, jeweled crosses and marble statues adorned this room. Only fragments remain.\n\nA granite door leads inside. It seems to be held shut by three latches of unusual design, bronze, steel, and copper.\n\nThe marble door leads back out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the key", "response": "A heavy iron key that seems to fit the lock of the crypt's marble door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open latches", "response": "You must specify a single latch.\n\nThe leaves swirl in from the outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open bronze", "response": "You push the bronze latch open.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward the iron key as if the form within them is peering at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the key", "response": "Dropped.\n\nThe leaves swirl through the motions of opening the latches.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open copper", "response": "You push the copper latch open.\n\nThe ghost pushes the bronze latch closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open bronze", "response": "You push the bronze latch open.\n\nThe leaves swirl through the motions of dropping the iron key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close bronze", "response": "You push the bronze latch closed.\n\nThe ghost pushes the copper latch closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe ghost pushes the bronze latch open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe ghost pushes the bronze latch closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the bronze", "response": "You push the bronze latch open.\n\nThe ghost waits.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "When you were here last, jeweled crosses and marble statues adorned this room. Only fragments remain.\n\nA granite door leads inside. It seems to be held shut by three latches of unusual design, bronze, steel, and copper.\n\nThe marble door leads back out.\n\nYou can see an iron key and the ghost here.\n\nThe ghost waits.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bronze", "response": "This latch is designed so that merely pushing it will open it, and pushing it again in the same way will close it again. It is currently open.\n\nThe ghost pushes the bronze latch closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open bronze", "response": "You push the bronze latch open.\n\nThe ghost looks around.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close bronze", "response": "You push the bronze latch closed.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward the bronze latch as if the form within them is peering at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open steel", "response": "You push the steel latch open.\n\nThe ghost pushes the bronze latch open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "From here, you can go inside and outside.\n\nThe ghost pushes the steel latch closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inside", "response": "(first opening the granite door)\nThe granite door won't open when the bronze latch and the steel latch are closed.\n\nThe ghost pushes the copper latch closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe leaves swirl through the motions of going east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open copper", "response": "You push the copper latch open.\n\nThe leaves swirl against the handle of the granite door, but the door does not budge.\nThen the leaves batter faintly against the granite door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe ghost waits.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close copper", "response": "You push the copper latch closed.\n\nThe ghost pushes the copper latch open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open steel", "response": "You push the steel latch open.\n\nThe ghost waits.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open bronze", "response": "You push the bronze latch open.\n\nThe ghost pushes the copper latch closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the key", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe ghost pushes the steel latch closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "Visitors used to sit on the bench here to contemplate their mortality. Apparently the reminders of their mortality have become all too great. A marble door leads inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait awhile", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe leaves swirl in from the inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "When you were here last, jeweled crosses and marble statues adorned this room. Only fragments remain.\n\nA granite door leads inside. It seems to be held shut by three latches of unusual design, bronze, steel, and copper.\n\nThe marble door leads back out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "(the marble door)\nYou close the marble door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "(the marble door)\nYou lock the marble door.\n\nA faint scratching comes from the other side of the marble door. The handle of the marble door turns, but the door does not open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open bronze", "response": "You push the bronze latch open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open steel", "response": "You push the steel latch open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open copper", "response": "You push the copper latch open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the granite door", "response": "You open the granite door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "The sconces on the walls have been smashed, and the coffin gapes open in the middle of the crypt.\n\nThe granite door leads back out.\n\nThe coffin's heavy leaden lid lies on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the coffin", "response": "In the coffin are some bones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bones", "response": "Poor things....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the bones", "response": "They are where they belong.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lid", "response": "Made of solid lead, this lid looks to heavy to lift by yourself. But who would dare accompany you here?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the coffin", "response": "You climb in to lie among Thurnley's bones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sconces", "response": "They're for the caretaker to deal with. Perhaps she can clean up the tomb, if you can lay poor Thurnley to rest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open marble", "response": "It seems to be locked.\n\nA faint scratching comes from the other side of the marble door. The handle of the marble door turns, but the door does not open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock marble", "response": "You unlock the marble door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open marble", "response": "You open the marble door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "Visitors used to sit on the bench here to contemplate their mortality. Apparently the reminders of their mortality have become all too great. A marble door leads inside.\n\nYou can see the ghost here.\n\nThe leaves swirl toward the iron key as though to take it from you. As they brush your hand, you fall to the floor in a dead faint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the key", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "Visitors used to sit on the bench here to contemplate their mortality. Apparently the reminders of their mortality have become all too great. A marble door leads inside.\n\nYou can see the ghost here.\n\nThe leaves swirl through the motions of opening the marble door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "When you were here last, jeweled crosses and marble statues adorned this room. Only fragments remain.\n\nA granite door leads inside. It seems to be held shut by three latches of unusual design, bronze, steel, and copper.\n\nThe marble door leads back out.\n\nYou can see an iron key here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "The sconces on the walls have been smashed, and the coffin gapes open in the middle of the crypt.\n\nThe granite door leads back out.\n\nThe coffin's heavy leaden lid lies on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe leaves swirl in from the outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lift the lid", "response": "You strain to lift the lid, but you can only raise one edge of it.\n\nThe ghost waits.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You continue", "response": "You strain to lift the lid, but you can only raise one edge of it.\n\nThe ghost whirls around the other edge of the lid, and almost without your willing it the lid rises into the air. Before you realize that you have put it down, the lid stands upright on the coffin's hinges.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the coffin", "response": "In the coffin are some bones.\n\nThe ghost goes through the motions of picking up the lid, but it does not budge from its hinges.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the coffin", "response": "You climb in to lie among Thurnley's bones.\n\nThe ghost goes through the motions of picking up the lid, but it does not budge from its hinges.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You exit coffin", "response": "You get out of the coffin.\n\nThe sconces on the walls have been smashed, and the coffin gapes open in the middle of the crypt.\n\nThe granite door leads back out.\n\nYou can see the ghost here.\n\nThe leaves swirl around the coffin as if looking for something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe leaves swirl into the coffin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close the coffin", "response": "You close the coffin.\n\nYou hear the leaves swirling in the coffin, then all at once they stop. Thurnley can rest again.\n\n> LIST NYE", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Comedy" ]

[ "castle", "Comedy", "cover art", "gender-neutral protagonist", "humor", "humour", "I7 source available", "male protagonist", "One-Room Game Competition 2008", "parody", "puzzles", "silly", "single room", "superhero", "Xyzzy Awards 2008" ]

[ 1, 5, 8, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "\"We'll have to split up. I'll go after the bombers, you find the fastest way out of here. Tell the President he has to evacuate, immediately!\"\n\nThose were the last words you heard from Captain McBrawn before he rode away hanging on the skid of a helicopter with one hand, his muscular arm gleaming in the light of the setting sun. It is up to you now to find your way to the President of the World and warn him of the impending attack. Finally, some responsibility after all these years!\n\nYou descend from the rooftop planning the trip to the drop-off point. At the base of the building the Screaming Communists capture you. Figures.\n\nA group of stern, vicious looking Screaming Communists march through the barren land, dragging you behind them. Their destination is a gloomy medieval castle. The commander shouts orders to one of the soldiers who grabs you by the collar of your sweater and escorts you inside.\n\nAfter a long climb through dark corridors and endless staircases the guard throws you in a dark, cold cell and slams the door shut. A chill runs down your spine and desperation starts to creep in.\n\nEscapade!\n\nThis game is free software. Type LICENSE for details.\n\nThe moonlight gives dim illumination to the front part of the cell, leaving the opposite wall completely in the dark. There's an unlit light bulb hanging from the ceiling and a heavy steel door on the wall opposite to the barred window, but the room is otherwise featureless.\n\nYou can barely make out the outlines of some dark shapes in one dark corner of the cell.\n\n(For more information about the game, type ABOUT.)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You're the hero of the day, the man everyone looks up to, the uncontested champion of the Free World, the celebrated superstar - Captain McBrawn.\n\nOr at least you would like to be. The truth is that you are Scotty, Captain McBrawn's short and a bit round sidekick. You have followed him on his adventures and helped him mostly by staying out of his way, but now you have a mission of your own.\n\nYou are carrying a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the photograph", "response": "It's a postcard sized signed photograph of Captain McBrawn. You carry it with you everywhere you go and it's beginning to show the wear and tear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shapes", "response": "There's something very unnerving in the darkest corner of the cell... You can see the outlines of a round lumpy object and another, taller figure almost your size.\n\nIt's as if the taller shape just moved a bit. You hold back a whimper.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shapes", "response": "You are wearing a pair of green pocketless pants and a gray wool sweater. Your adventuring clothes - that's what mom said when she bought them. They've turned out being not very well suited for the purpose though. They're very thick and a bit too big.\n\nYou daren't look anymore. Maybe they'll go away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Options", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> bold keywords\nyellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> bold keywords\nyellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> bold keywords\nyellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> yellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> yellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> blue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> blue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\n> green keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\n> green keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\n> red keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\n> red keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n> -dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n> -dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n> /slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n> /slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n> *starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n> *starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shapes", "response": "You daren't look anymore. Maybe they'll go away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "The rectangle on the cell door slides open and a pair of beady eyes appear behind it. \"WHAT is all this RACKET?\" a loud voice behind the door says.\n\n\"Help! You have to get me out of here!\" you beg.\n\n\"HA! HA! WHY would I do THAT? I'M THE GUARD, I'M SUPPOSED TO KEEP YOU INSIDE!\" the voice roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Options", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> bold keywords\nyellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> bold keywords\nyellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> bold keywords\nyellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> yellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> yellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> blue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> blue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\n> green keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\n> green keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\n> red keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\n> red keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n> -dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n> -dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n> /slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n> /slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n> *starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: keyword\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n> *starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n> *starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n> *starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Options", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> bold keywords\nyellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> yellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> yellow keywords\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> blue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\n> blue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\n> green keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\n> green keywords\nred keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\n> red keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\n> red keywords\n-dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "When the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n> -dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: *keyword*\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n> -dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: -keyword-\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n> -dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting\n\nWhen the game prints a word that can be used as a discussion topic with other characters, it will be highlighted for the first time. Here's an example of a highlighted word using your current settings: -keyword-\n\nSelect a new highlight style below and press Q to return. Note that not all interpreters support every highlighting style; choose the one that works for you.\n\nblue keywords\ngreen keywords\nred keywords\n> -dashed- keywords\n/slashed/ keywords\n*starred* keywords\nno keyword highlighting", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clothes", "response": "You are wearing a pair of green pocketless pants and a gray wool sweater. Your adventuring clothes - that's what mom said when she bought them. They've turned out being not very well suited for the purpose though. They're very thick and a bit too big.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard to turn on the lights", "response": "There is no reply.\n\n\"WELL if you DIDN'T HAVE anything else,\" the guard shouts and closes the eyehole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shapes", "response": "You daren't look anymore. Maybe they'll go away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the sweater", "response": "You strip naked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Scotty, Captain McBrawn's short and a bit round sidekick. You have followed him on his adventures and helped him mostly by staying out of his way, but now you have a mission of your own.\n\nYou are carrying a photograph and wearing nothing.\n\nAlso, your adventuring clothes are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell", "response": "The air smells weird, like the cell has never been cleaned.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "\"Hello? Anyone?\" you say quietly but get no answer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the floor", "response": "The stone floor is a dirty and cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine walls", "response": "The gray stone walls surround you from all directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ceiling", "response": "The ceiling is far above the ground. There's a largish square up in the ceiling on one side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the square", "response": "There's a largish square up in the ceiling on one side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bulb", "response": "The light bulb is hanging low on an electrical wire. It is unlit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the picture", "response": "It's a postcard sized signed photograph of Captain McBrawn. You carry it with you everywhere you go and it's beginning to show the wear and tear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the window", "response": "The window is nothing but a hole in the wall with three iron bars running across it. Through it you see a beautiful moonlit night sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bars", "response": "Three iron bars prevent anyone from climbing out the window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The moonlight gives dim illumination to the front part of the cell, leaving the opposite wall completely in the dark. There's an unlit light bulb hanging from the ceiling and a heavy steel door on the wall opposite to the barred window, but the room is otherwise featureless.\n\nYou can barely make out the outlines of some dark shapes in one dark corner of the cell.\n\nThe light is just enough for you to see the adventuring clothes on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the bulb", "response": "The bulb comes easily out from its socket. It was screwed in only very slightly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "The rectangle on the cell door slides open and a pair of beady eyes appear behind it. \"WHAT is all this RACKET?\" a loud voice behind the door says. After a short pause the voice goes: \"WHAT THE... are you NAKED IN THERE?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "The guard refuses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the light", "response": "(the light bulb)\n\"Could you please switch the light on?\" you ask politely. \"WHAT ARE you TALKING ABOUT?\" the guard yells. \"The power IS ALREADY ON!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the bed", "response": "\"I do not UNDERSTAND you!\" the guard shouts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bulb in the socket", "response": "You screw the lamp tighter into the socket and it lights up.\n\nThe light reveals the rest of the cell - an air duct running above the window, a simple rug on the floor, a hole that's probably meant to be used as a toilet and not much more.\n\nExcept a small, grinning, black monster in the corner next to a bulky sack.\n\n\"WHAT the... HELP!\" you scream.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the monster", "response": "You move across the room toward the creature. The lamp hanging from the ceiling is just on the right height to bonk you on the forehead on your way. (ktonk!)\n\nThe creature is small, shorter than you, and pitch black. It has an oblong head, no ears, tiny black eyes, and sharp, black teeth clearly visible behind a lipless mouth.\n\nA constant dripping of spit from between its teeth forms a small greenish puddle of saliva by its feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the guard about monster", "response": "You lean closer to the door and whisper: \"There is some... thing in the cell with me!\"\n\n\"You are IMAGINING things!\" the guard yells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Point to monster", "response": "(with the photograph)\nYou point the photograph at the creature.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the photograph", "response": "\"To Sotty, Cpt. Harrison McBrawn.\" Good ol' Captain. Still doesn't remember your name.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the monster about the guard", "response": "\"I guess that was all,\" you say to the guard before talking to H.R. \"JUST DON'T BOTHER ME ANYMORE,\" the guard yells and slides the eyehole shut.\n\nBefore getting into detailed discussion, your first reaction is to tackle the surprising situation with the delicacy you have applied to most things in your life. \"What the duck is that!?\" you yell and point at the creature. Much to your (additional) surprise, it replies. \"Well, that's not what I would call a friendly greeting, monkey boy!\"\n\nYou dare to go a bit closer. \"H.R.'s the name, and -trading- is my game!\" It pats the sack it has next to it. \"I have everything a man of your standing would need, from kitchen utensils to trebuchets. Looks like I got your attention, little man - if you're interested, ask me for a -free sample-!\"\n\nIt takes a while for the words to sink in. Not the least because the creature's voice combines hisses, clicks and high-pitched whirs which makes it quite hard to understand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine creature", "response": "The creature is small, shorter than you, and pitch black. It has an oblong head, no ears, tiny black eyes, and sharp, black teeth clearly visible behind a lipless mouth.\n\nA constant dripping of spit from between its teeth forms a small greenish puddle of saliva by its feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the trading", "response": "\"So... You're a trader?\" you ask. \"Yessir, that I am!\" the creature replies. \"I am well known everywhere in -Castle Schweinehund-, swapping items you no longer need for quality merchandise! Just show me what you got and I'll see if there's something I could trade you for it.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the creature for the free sample", "response": "\"So, what's the free sample?\" you venture.\n\n\"The free sample, eh?\" H.R. says and flashes a smile. \"The minute I saw you I said to myself 'H.R., there is a man who goes to the supermarket just for the free taste samples.'\" It reaches for the sack and pulls out a squarish metallic object which it hands to you. \"Here ya go, sport. Knock your teeth out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the Castle Schweinehund", "response": "\"What is this place anyhow? Where are we?\"\n\n\"This is Castle Schweinehund,\" H.R. tells you. \"Story goes that the -previous owners- built it on an ancient burial ground and used it to perform occultist rituals, opening portals to other worlds and so on. Sounds like old wives' tales to me,\" it says and runs its hand across its tail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the previous owners", "response": "\"Who were the previous owners?\"\n\n\"I'm not sure exactly. They were quite loud as well but not to the extent of the current ones.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the metal", "response": "What do you want to examine: the metal plate, or the squarish metallic object?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Object", "response": "After closer inspection the squarish metallic object turns out to be a slightly rusted Skindude(tm) multitool. It has two hollow halves connected with a hinge on one end. The halves can be opened to reveal knives, files, pliers and other tools inside. Excellent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clothes", "response": "(first dropping the Skindude(tm) multitool to make room)\nYou lift the adventuring clothes to your arms.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the skindude", "response": "(first dropping the adventuring clothes to make room)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the clothes", "response": "\"Thank heavens,\" H.R. sighs when you put on your clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show skindude to hr", "response": "(first taking the Skindude(tm) multitool)\nYou decide to hold on to it for a bit longer. It might still come useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the puddle", "response": "A sizzling greenish puddle of saliva is forming by the feet of the creature.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show clothes to hr", "response": "(first taking the clothes off)\n\"Can I get anything for these?\" you ask and offer your clothes to the creature.\n\nH.R. looks at the clothes in disdain. \"If I took them, it would mean you couldn't put them back on. And that's very unacceptable.\"\n\n\"Aww, don't sulk,\" H.R. says when it sees your expression. \"Let's make a deal: you put your clothes back on and I'll give you something nice. Ok?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the clothes", "response": "You put your clothes back on.\n\n\"That's more like it! Here you go,\" H.R. says and digs through the sack. It hands you a small tube.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tube", "response": "It is a small tube of glue remover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the saliva", "response": "What do you want to ask H.R. about: the puddle of saliva, or the acidic spit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spit", "response": "That's a nasty habit.\n\n\"Yeah, and your -spit- isn't as cool as mine,\" H.R. comments.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask HR about the vent", "response": "\"Where does that vent lead?\"\n\n\"Oh, it runs through the entire castle,\" H.R. tells you. \"And it reaches the outside in several places, of course.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine vent", "response": "The aluminum air duct runs from one wall to another. It's quite large but not set very high, just few centimeters above your head. There's a small grate in the bottom of it.\n\nH.R. burps and covers its mouth with its hand. \"Sorry. Had Mexicans for lunch.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the photo to the hr", "response": "(first taking the photograph)\n\"Look, here's Captain McBrawn. Doesn't he look heroic and brave?\"\n\n\"Wait, where's his head?\" H.R. asks. \"It's right there behind his biceps,\" you say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a photograph and some glue remover and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a Skindude(tm) multitool is on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the multitool", "response": "It's a slightly rusted Skindude(tm) multitool, with all sorts of useful tools inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the multitool", "response": "You pull the halves apart and the Skindude(tm) opens with a creak. A swarm of rust flakes flies from the hinges. Looks like almost everything inside is rusted through; the only tool that looks even remotely useful is the screwdriver.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open vent with the screwdriver", "response": "(first taking the Skindude(tm) multitool)\nIt's not locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "It's a smelly little hole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the hole", "response": "Fortunately it seems to be empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine door", "response": "The door is made of heavy reinforced steel plates, attached with large bolts. The hinges are on the left side and on the right side is the keyhole.\n\nThere's a small rectangular metal plate in the middle of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the plate", "response": "You move across the room to get closer to the metal plate. The lamp hits you on the forehead again. (ktonk)\n\nThere's a metal plate embedded in the door on the eye level, about three centimeters high and thirty centimeters wide.\n\nH.R. taps the floor with its foot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "The light bulb is hanging low on an electrical wire. It is lit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wire", "response": "The wire hangs from the ceiling from a fragile looking attachment and leads to the cross section of the ceiling and two walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plate", "response": "There's a metal plate embedded in the door on the eye level, about three centimeters high and thirty centimeters wide.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unscrew the plate", "response": "It doesn't move.\n\nH.R. yawns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hinges", "response": "The hinges of the door are screwed into the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "You jump up and down.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The cell walls are of gray stone and a small barred window leads outside to freedom. A silvery air vent runs right above the window and there's a hole in the floor under it in the corner, apparently to be used as a toilet. A light bulb hangs from the ceiling illuminating the cell. A simple rug is on the floor.\n\nH.R. stands there next to a large burlap sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unscrew the hinges with the screwdriver", "response": "You take the Skindude(tm) multitool and loosen the screws on the hinges.\n\nAfter a good push the door falls open without its hinges. You run through it and turn left in the corridor - and end up in the arms of the guard. \"HOW THE... DID THE DOOR JUST FALL DOWN?\" he shouts.\n\nThe guard grabs you and takes you to what's probably a break room. There are a dozen Screaming Communists sitting there, watching you suspiciously and shouting a word or two at times.\n\n\"Congratulations on your escape,\" H.R. mocks you when they return you to the cell. The door seems to be fixed now.\n\nYou wave the screwdriver victoriously. \"They didn't take this away! I'll just unscrew the hinges again!\"\n\n\"Oh, by the way, they bolted the hinges while you were away. Sorry, what were you saying?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rug", "response": "The rug has bright stripes in all the colors of a neon rainbow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the rug", "response": "(first dropping the Skindude(tm) multitool and the glue remover to make room)\nYou roll the rug and lift it to your arms.\n\nGlancing down on the floor where the rug used to be you notice a trapdoor in the floor!\n\n\"What a shocking revelation,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show rug to hr", "response": "You remember the low-hanging lamp mere milliseconds before it hits you on the forehead. (ktonk)\n\n\"Would you trade this with me?\" you ask.\n\n\"Hmm... It is a nice rug, in a way, but I've seen much nicer ones in my days. It doesn't even fly,\" H.R. sneers. \"But since you're my best customer in this cell at the moment, I'll get you something nice for it. Let's see... a Jack Mills novel... no... a trophy... hmm...\"\n\nThe creature pulls from its sack a large cube-like thingamabob, hands it to you and puts the rug away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cube", "response": "The cube-like thingamabob has a window on one side where you can see some tubes in Y shape inside. Red labels are pasted all over the device, the one on top saying \"FLUX CAPACITOR\". The two dials are labeled \"POWER\" and \"SPEED\" and there's a pin with a picture of a lightning bolt next to it. It is very heavy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cube", "response": "The flux capacitor has a window on one side where you can see some tubes in Y shape inside. Red labels are pasted all over the device, the one on top saying \"FLUX CAPACITOR\". The two dials are labeled \"POWER\" and \"SPEED\" and there's a pin with a picture of a lightning bolt next to it. It is very heavy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "glue remover: (first dropping the flux capacitor to make room)\nTaken.\nSkindude(tm) multitool: Taken.\ntoilet hole: Taken. Wait, what?\n\n(bulky items, i.e. the flux capacitor, were ignored)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the flux capacitor to the hr", "response": "(first taking the flux capacitor)\nYou decide to hold on to it for a bit longer. It might still come useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a flux capacitor and a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, some glue remover, a Skindude(tm) multitool, and a toilet hole are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the multitool to the hr", "response": "\"I don't want this. It's rusted through,\" you complain. \"It was free,\" H.R. snaps. \"Oh well, I guess I could find something else... \" It rummages through its sack. \"Let's see... a cake... no... a brass lamp... hmm... Here, you can have this.\"\n\nIt hands you a dusty old book.\n\n(first dropping the flux capacitor to make room)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hole", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the hole on the door", "response": "(ktonk)\n\nYou slap the hole against the door. It sticks there and through it you can see the corridor on the other side.\n\n\"That seems... unlikely,\" you say\"I've seen stranger things around here,\" H.R. shrugs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the hole", "response": "It's way too small to fit through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You reach through the hole", "response": "You put your hand through the hole in the door. Yes, the key is in the lock and at your reach!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the key", "response": "You reach through the toilet hole and reach for the keyhole on the other side. You are delighted to find the key in the lock!\n\nThe key turns easily and you open the door very very carefully. You sneak into the corridor and close the door again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock the door with the key", "response": "The guard stands behind the door with his arms crossed.\n\n\"Do you REALLY THINK I wouldn't NOTICE A HAND REACHING THROUGH THE DOOR?\" he roars.\n\n\"Well I kinda assumed so,\" you say.\n\nHe squints his eyes and takes a step forward. You open the door again, step inside and close the door.\n\nThe guard grabs the hole and pulls it off. \"NO MORE TRICKS!\" he yells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hole", "response": "It's a smelly little hole. Incredibly enough it seems to be a portable model.\n\nThe toilet hole is currently attached to the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the hole", "response": "You peel the hole off the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put hole on the door", "response": "You slap the hole against the door. It sticks there and through it you can see the corridor on the other side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn the key", "response": "You reach through the toilet hole and reach for the keyhole on the other side. You are delighted to find the key in the lock!\n\nThe key turns easily and you open the door very very carefully. You sneak into the corridor and close the door again.\n\nThe guard stands behind the door with his arms crossed.\n\n\"Do you REALLY THINK I wouldn't NOTICE A HAND REACHING THROUGH THE DOOR?\" he roars.\n\n\"Well I kinda assumed so,\" you say.\n\nHe squints his eyes and takes a step forward. You open the door again, step inside and close the door.\n\nThe guard grabs the hole and pulls it off. \"NO MORE TRICKS!\" he yells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a dusty old book and a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a flux capacitor and some glue remover are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the book", "response": "It says \"ENCYCLOP?DIA ESCAP?DIA: The Definite Guide to Getting Out of All Kinds of Trouble\" in large block letters on the cover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "Instead of finding pages full of useful information you find that all the pages apart from one have been glued together and the book has been carved hollow to create a secret compartment inside. In the compartment there's a drinking glass and a small bottle of brown liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the liquid", "response": "What do you want to examine: the glue remover, the puddle of saliva, or the whiskey bottle?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bottle", "response": "According to the label the bottle contains Meisterj?ger, a strong liquor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You use glue remover on book", "response": "\"Use\" is too vague; you need to be more specific.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the label", "response": "What do you want to remove: the whiskey bottle, the flux capacitor, or the sticker?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You spit on the hinges", "response": "(ktonk)\n\n\"Nope,\" the creature says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take acid with the glass", "response": "That command is too complex; you might want to try to just take the puddle of saliva.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the puddle", "response": "You scoop some of the spit from the floor into the glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the spit on the hinges", "response": "(the acidic spit on the hinges)\nYou move across the room, now remembering that devilish lamp and going around it! Take that, lamp!\n\n(first taking the acidic spit)\nYou pour a few drops of the spit on the hinges. The spit sizzles away in trails of smoke, leaving brown spots where it landed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the spit on the bars", "response": "(ktonk)\n\n(first trying to take the puddle of saliva)\nYou scoop some of the spit from the floor into the glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the spit on the bars", "response": "(the acidic spit on the iron bars)\n(first taking the acidic spit)\nCarefully applying the creature's spit on both ends of the bars, one after another they corrode off and fall on the cell floor. You climb out through the window. It's hard to see in the dark, but the ground doesn't seem to be that far away so you just jump.\n\n\"Freedom! Freedom! Free--\" you rejoice just before landing in a moat. Your are in the water by the neck and your feet are stuck in the mud. \"Uh... Hello? Someone? ...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the book", "response": "There's only one readable passage.\n\nA flashlight is an essential tool in any dark or low-light environment. It is a device that consists of a lamp inside a parable-shaped casing surrounded by a reflective surface to focus the light to a single direction.\n\nFlashlights can been used as communication devices, typically by flashing the light in pre-agreed sequences. There are documented cases[citation needed] of using a flashlight or a searchlight as a signalling device by attaching a template in front of the light source to create shapes in the surface the light is pointed at.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the book", "response": "It's an ENCYCLOP?DIA ESCAP?DIA shaped box with barely any of the articles left to read. There's a whiskey bottle inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the lamp at the window", "response": "(the barred window)\n(first taking the light bulb)\n\"Stupid bulb, you're gonna get it,\" you mutter and yank the bulb from its socket. The wire snaps and you're left with a bulb attached to nothing but its socket.\n\nMiraculously enough the bulb is still lit even when it's not connected to anything. \"Hmm,\" H.R. muses.\n\nYou point the light bulb at the barred window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take bottle", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the label", "response": "What do you want to examine: the flux capacitor, the sticker, or the whiskey bottle?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sticker", "response": "It's glued fast. It doesn't come off with bare hands.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trapdoor", "response": "It's a wooden trapdoor set in the floor. It looks like there's some sort of sticker on it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You jump down the trapdoor to the room below, thumping down on your feet and facing a stone wall. \"Now, let's see if this room is easier to escape than the last one,\" you say to yourself. \"I very much doubt it,\" says the creature's voice next to you.\n\n\"How the grue did you get here before me?\" you cry. \"I didn't, monkey boy. You dropped down the hatch in the ceiling the moment you went through the trapdoor,\" it grunts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the glue remover", "response": "You open the cap and close it again. No need to keep it opened before it's used.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the sticker with the glue remover", "response": "(first taking the glue remover)\nThe glue remover is effective immediately and the sticker comes off easily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sticker on the door", "response": "You slap the sticker on the door.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The cell walls are of gray stone and a small barred window leads outside to freedom. A silvery air vent runs right above the window. The light bulb you carry illuminates the cell.\n\nThere's an open trapdoor on the floor.\n\nH.R. waves at you.\n\nOn the floor are some iron bars and a flux capacitor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bars", "response": "The bars used to be in the window before you corroded them off. They seem to have replaced the bars in the window but left the old ones behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bars", "response": "Taken.\n\nDark clouds gather in the sky and block the moonlight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show bars to hr", "response": "The creature shrugs. \"Meh. Those kind of things don't sell.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bulb in the book", "response": "You put the light bulb into the encyclopedia.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the book on the window", "response": "(the barred window)\nYou put the encyclopedia on the barred window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the book", "response": "That's already open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close book", "response": "You close the encyclopedia.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the book", "response": "You open the encyclopedia, revealing a light bulb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine pages", "response": "A flashlight is an essential tool in any dark or low-light environment. It is a device that consists of a lamp inside a parable-shaped casing surrounded by a reflective surface to focus the light to a single direction.\n\nFlashlights can been used as communication devices, typically by flashing the light in pre-agreed sequences. There are documented cases[citation needed] of using a flashlight or a searchlight as a signalling device by attaching a template in front of the light source to create shapes in the surface the light is pointed at.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the photograph", "response": "It's a postcard sized signed photograph of Captain McBrawn. You carry it with you everywhere you go and it's beginning to show the wear and tear.\n\nH.R. digs a paper tissue from its bag and tries to wipe some spit from around its mouth. The tissue sizzles and melts away leaving just a faint trace of smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Tear photograph", "response": "Never! Even the very thought makes you weep gently.\n\n\"Oh boo hoo\", H.R. says and in exaggerated motions pretends to rub its eyes with fists.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the photograph on the lamp", "response": "You put the photograph into the encyclopedia.\n\n(first taking the photograph)\nPutting things on the light bulb would probably not get you any closer to escaping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the flux", "response": "The flux capacitor has a window on one side where you can see some tubes in Y shape inside. Red labels are pasted all over the device, the one on top saying \"FLUX CAPACITOR\". The two dials are labeled \"POWER\" and \"SPEED\" and there's a pin with a picture of a lightning bolt next to it. It is very heavy.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the speed", "response": "The speed dial points at zero. Curiously there's a large red line at about 88 miles per hour mark.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trapdoor", "response": "It is tightly locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "There's no such thing here now.\n\nThe cell walls are of gray stone and a small barred window leads outside to freedom. A silvery air vent runs right above the window. The light bulb illuminates the cell.\n\nThere's an open trapdoor on the floor.\n\nH.R. leans against its sack.\n\nOn the barred window is an encyclopedia (in which is a light bulb).\n\nOn the floor is a flux capacitor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the capacitor in the trapdoor", "response": "(first taking the flux capacitor)\n(first dropping the iron bars, the whiskey bottle, and the drinking glass to make room)\nThe flux capacitor falls down the trapdoor and lands back in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the power", "response": "The power dial goes from zero to 1.21 gigawatts. It's currently pointing at zero.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about sack", "response": "\"What's in the bag?\" you ask.\n\n\"That's where I keep my ware,\" H.R. responds. \"You'll find out what's there when you trade something.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a flux capacitor, a drinking glass, a whiskey bottle, and some iron bars are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Show bars to hr", "response": "(first taking the iron bars)\n\"I think I have one of those already,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nThe drinking glass is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the capacitor", "response": "Sparks fly to the air when you touch the socket on the flux capacitor with the exposed wire. There's a loud click from inside the machinery and the tubes behind the front window light up and start blinking like christmas lights.\n\nThe needle on the power dial turns to point at 1.21 gigawatts.\n\nH.R. burps and covers its mouth with its hand. \"Sorry. Had Mexicans for lunch.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put capacitor in the trapdoor", "response": "(first taking the flux capacitor)\n(first dropping the iron bars to make room)\nThe flux capacitor falls down the trapdoor and lands back in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the capacitor out the window", "response": "That command is too complex; you might want to try to just throw the flux capacitor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the capacitor", "response": "The flux capacitor is already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the flux", "response": "\"What the shuck is this?\"\n\n\"It's a... well, you find out yourself,\" H.R. replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop capacitor out the window", "response": "That command is too complex; you might want to try to just drop the flux capacitor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the capacitor in the window", "response": "(the barred window)\n(first taking the flux capacitor)\nThat is not something you could put stuff into.\n\n\"Hey, watch those stranded prepositions,\" H.R. points out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the window", "response": "(the barred window)\nThe window is nothing but a hole in the wall with thick slab of transparent plexiglas installed to it. Through it you see a beautiful moonlit night sky.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plexiglas", "response": "The Screaming Communists have replaced the iron bars with thick transparent plexiglas while you were away. At least it'll keep the cold away better than before.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "The rectangle on the cell door slides open and a pair of beady eyes appear behind it. \"WHAT is all this RACKET?\" a loud voice behind the door says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss guard", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the book to guard", "response": "(first taking the encyclopedia)\nThe guard doesn't seem interested.\n\nThe guard grunts and closes the eyehole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the whiskey", "response": "It's too strong for your tastes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the whiskey to guard", "response": "(first taking the whiskey bottle)\n\"Would you be interested in a... little drink?\" you say and dangle the bottle in front of the eyehole. \"Uh, is that MEISTERJ?GER? I most certainly SHOULD NOT... Maybe a little bit, JUST TO KEEP ME WARM ... JUST SLIP it through the HOLE, will you?\" \"It won't fit through,\" you remark. \"I must open the door... But KEEP IT QUIET, WILL YOU?\"\n\nThere's a click from the keyhole and the door opens slightly. You slip the bottle to the guard who snatches it from your hand and slams the door shut. In his excitement he doesn't remember to lock the door! You wait for a moment and open it very carefully.\n\nThe guard is enjoying his prize and doesn't notice you slipping through the door. You navigate through the castle corridors until you stop behind a door where you hear conversation behind it.\n\n\"DID YOU HEAR that FEDOR has found a BOTTLE OF MEISTERJ?GER?\" a voice yells.\n\n\"Meisterj?ger? AND HE'S NOT SHARING?\" another voice shouts. Several other voices murmur in unison. It gets harder to hear, but it seems they all decide to pay a visit to Fedor and his bottle. By the time you've deduced this, the door opens and twenty Screaming Communists march out.\n\n\"FEDOR, you OLD DRUNK we've come to DRINK FOR YOUR HEALTH and we've BROUGHT YOU A PRESENT,\" they shout as they shove you to his lap.\n\nThe sounds of the Screaming Communists gradually die out when the bottle is finally empty and you're back in the cell with H.R.\n\n\"Welcome back,\" it says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying an encyclopedia (in which is a light bulb) and a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a flux capacitor, some iron bars, and a drinking glass are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nThe drinking glass is empty.\n\nThere's a knock on the door. Not waiting for a response the guard opens the door and shouts: \"Your DINNER IS HERE!\" He throws a plate in the cell with a silvery package on it and locks the door again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the package", "response": "It's a small bundle of tin foil. Judging by the pungent smell there might be some food inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the package", "response": "You open the tin foil, revealing fried fish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fish", "response": "They have fried the fish whole but it still looks quite raw. It is reddish in color; it might be a red herring.\n\"I'm quite sure it is not,\" H.R. doubts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the fish to the hr", "response": "\"Do you want this?\" you ask.\n\n\"Oh no I couldn't... YES I CAN,\" H.R. shrieks and grabs the foil from your hands. Pieces of fish and drops of saliva fly around as the creature devours your meal. The gruesome show ends in H.R. silently burping and throwing the now empty foil over its shoulder. \"Wow, that really hit the spot. Yeah, maybe you'd like something in return?\"\n\nIt puts its hand in the sack and majestically pulls out tiny nail scissors and hands them to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the fish", "response": "You can't bring yourself to eating it.\n\n\"What, you can't eat the sweet, sweet fish? You're one mysterious dude,\" the creature says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the foil", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the scissors", "response": "You already have those.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying some nail scissors, a tin foil, an encyclopedia (in which is a light bulb), and a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a flux capacitor, some iron bars, and a drinking glass are on the floor.\n\nH.R. digs a paper tissue from its bag and tries to wipe some spit from around its mouth. The tissue sizzles and melts away leaving just a faint trace of smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the foil", "response": "It's a crumpled sheet of tin foil.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the foil", "response": "That's already open.\n\nCutting that wouldn't solve anything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tear the foil", "response": "That's not something you can tear.\n\nH.R. scratches its head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cut photograph", "response": "After hesitating for a while you carefully cut out Captain McBrawn's image from the photograph. It takes a good while with the nearly useless dull scissors.\n\nYou look at the McBrawn's silhouette, which is perfectly cut out but the photograph and the autograph is ruined. The sacrifice makes a silent tear roll on your cheek.\n\n\"I knew a girl like you once,\" H.R. remarks. \"She was five and she liked ponies. I bet you like ponies too, don't you.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "H.R. gives you a thumbs-up and a grin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask hr about the ponies", "response": "H.R. seems to have been distracted and missed your question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the photograph", "response": "It's a silhouette of Captain McBrawn cut from a photograph.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the silhouette on the window", "response": "(the barred window)\nYou put the photograph on the barred window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the lamp at the window", "response": "(the barred window)\n(first taking the light bulb)\nYou point the light bulb at the barred window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Point lamp at silhouette", "response": "You point the light bulb at the photograph.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "You wait for a while.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "That's already on.\n\nYou wait for a while.\n\nH.R. digs a paper tissue from its bag and tries to wipe some spit from around its mouth. The tissue sizzles and melts away leaving just a faint trace of smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach silhouette", "response": "What do you want to attach the photograph to?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the silhouette to the window", "response": "(the barred window)\nYou can't attach them together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the silhouette to the bulb", "response": "Putting things on the light bulb would probably not get you any closer to escaping.\n\nYou can't attach them together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the foil in the lamp", "response": "That is not something you could put stuff into.\n\nH.R. yawns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a light bulb, some nail scissors, a tin foil, and an encyclopedia and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a flux capacitor, some iron bars, and a drinking glass are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bulb in the book", "response": "You put the light bulb into the encyclopedia.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nThe drinking glass is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the foil on the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nPutting things on the drinking glass would probably not get you any closer to escaping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the foil in the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nYou put the tin foil into the glass and straighten it against the glass walls.\n\nH.R. burps and covers its mouth with its hand. \"Sorry. Had Mexicans for lunch.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the silhouette to the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nYou can't attach them together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the lamp in the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\n(the tin foil)\n(first taking the light bulb)\nYou put the light bulb inside the glass and the tin foil concentrates and reflects the light into a bright beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the silhouette on the glass", "response": "(the makeshift flashlight)\n(first taking the photograph)\nYou put Captain McBrawn's silhouette on top of the drinking glass.\n\nThe beam of light emitting from the drinking glass casts a shadow on the wall shaped like the Captain.\n\n\"Nananananananana CAP-TAAIN!\" H.R. sings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the flashlight at the window", "response": "(the barred window)\nCaptain McBrawn's silhouette reflects clearly to the clouds above. You hold the glass in your hand for several minutes, then support it in the window sill and leave it there.\n\n\"What happens now?\" H.R. asks.\n\n\"We wait. Captain McBrawn will be here any minute now.\" H.R. shrugs and stays silent.\n\nYou wait, and wait, and wait. You pace the room from one end to the other again and again. Finally the light bulb flickers ominously and finally burns out completely.\n\nA dreadful darkness falls into the cell but it doesn't last long when the moon comes back from behind the clouds and lights the room with an eerie glow. You give a defeated sigh. H.R. gives you a melancholic look.\n\nA bit later you hear muffled sounds from the corridor. They seem to get louder and louder and you can make out screams and thuds and thumps. You glance hopefully at H.R. who grins and gives you a thumbs-up.\n\n*khaZAM!*\n\nThe door practically EXPLODES inwards when the guard's unconscious body flies through it and bright light flows in the cell. You recognize the shadow of the man standing in the door frame.\n\nYes. It is Captain McBrawn.\n\n\"Fear NOT! For I, Captain McBrawn, am here!\" He comes in and stands tall in front of you, hands by his waist and holding his sculpture-like chin high. \"Let us leave this dreadful place!\"\n\nYou lower your head. \"I have to confess... You told me to go find the President. I didn't get there. The Screaming Communists captured me right away and I failed the mission.\" The Captain laughs warmly. \"Do not worry! I foiled their evil plot with little trouble and came looking for you. The searchlight was very clever of you.\"\n\n\"Well, I had some help...\" you say and point at H.R. - but it's gone. You're almost sure you see the tip of its tail disappearing in the ventilation duct. The Captain isn't paying much attention. \"Let's go home,\" he says.\n\nYou step over the knocked-out guard and leave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the foil to the hr", "response": "\"What do you suppose I would do with an empty sheet of tin foil?\" H.R. asks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying some nail scissors and an encyclopedia and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a flux capacitor, some iron bars, and a makeshift searchlight are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bars", "response": "The bars used to be in the window before you corroded them off. They seem to have replaced the bars in the window but left the old ones behind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bars", "response": "Taken.\n\nH.R. digs a paper tissue from its bag and tries to wipe some spit from around its mouth. The tissue sizzles and melts away leaving just a faint trace of smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "The cell walls are of gray stone and a small barred window leads outside to freedom. A silvery air vent runs right above the window. The light bulb illuminates the cell.\n\nThere's an open trapdoor on the floor.\n\nH.R. stands there next to a large burlap sack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the door with the bars", "response": "On the floor are a dinner plate, a flux capacitor, and a makeshift searchlight.\n\nThere's no such thing here now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the dinner plate", "response": "The dinner plate is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the plate to the gr", "response": "The aluminum air duct runs from one wall to another. It's quite large but not set very high, just few centimeters above your head. There's a small grate in the bottom of it.\n\nPlease be more specific - what do you want to show?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the plate to hr", "response": "(the dinner plate to H.R.)\n(first taking the dinner plate)\nYou decide to hold on to it for a bit longer. It might still come useful.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the grate", "response": "The aluminum air duct runs from one wall to another. It's quite large but not set very high, just few centimeters above your head. There's a small grate in the bottom of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open grate", "response": "You open the grate on the air duct.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the dinner plate at the window", "response": "(the barred window)\nThat wouldn't solve anything.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the duct", "response": "You try to squeeze through the opening, but it's just a bit too small for you to fit through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove clothing", "response": "You strip naked.\n\n\"That's so very much unnecessary,\" H.R. remarks dryly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the duct", "response": "Even without clothes the opening is just slightly too small to fit through.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at saliva", "response": "A sizzling greenish puddle of saliva is forming by the feet of the creature.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plate", "response": "(the dinner plate)\nThe dinner plate is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clothes", "response": "They are a pair of green pocketless pants and a gray wool sweater. Your adventuring clothes - that's what mom said when she bought them. They've turned out being not very well suited for the purpose though. They're very thick and a bit too big.\n\n\"I hear your mom lost some weight so they changed her classification to dwarf planet,\" H.R. quips.\n\n\"Hey! Don't talk like that about my mom!\" you yell at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a dinner plate, some iron bars, some nail scissors, and an encyclopedia and wearing nothing.\n\nAlso, your adventuring clothes, a flux capacitor, and a makeshift searchlight are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the door", "response": "You tuck the live end of the wire into the keyhole.\n\n\"Aww, that's just nasty,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "The rectangle on the cell door slides open and a pair of beady eyes appear behind it. \"WHAT is all this RACKET?\" a loud voice behind the door says. After a short pause the voice goes: \"Why you... ARE YOU STILL NAKED?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the door", "response": "\"Could you please open the door?\" you ask.\n\n\"HA! HA! HA HA HA! HA! HA HA!\" is all he replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the keyhole", "response": "There's a tiny keyhole in the cell door. Too bad you don't have the key.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to plate", "response": "(the dinner plate)\nYou can't attach them together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the door plate", "response": "That command is too complex; you might want to try to just attach electrical wire to the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the door", "response": "You make sure the wire is securely inside the keyhole.\n\nThe guard grunts and closes the eyehole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lie on the floor", "response": "What do you want to knock?\n\nThere's no such thing here now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "\"WHAT?\" the guard yells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put on the clothes", "response": "(first taking the adventuring clothes)\nYou put on the adventuring clothes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the plate to the guard", "response": "(the dinner plate to the guard)\n(first taking the dinner plate)\nThe guard doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the plate to the guard", "response": "(the dinner plate to the guard)\nThe guard doesn't seem interested.\n\nThe guard grunts and closes the eyehole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the foil on the eyehole", "response": "(first taking the tin foil)\nPutting things on the metal plate would probably not get you any closer to escaping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bar in the keyhole", "response": "(first taking the iron bars)\nThose are not something you could put stuff into.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying some iron bars, a tin foil (in which is a light bulb), and a dinner plate and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, an encyclopedia, some nail scissors, a flux capacitor, and a drinking glass (in which is a photograph) are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the scissors in the keyhole", "response": "(first taking the nail scissors)\nThose are not something you could put stuff into.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the keyhole", "response": "Through the keyhole you see a small part of the corridor behind the door. Sweet freedom!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the foil", "response": "You contemplate on making a foil hat to prevent unwanted telepathy, but decide you don't have the time.\n\n\"The elevator doesn't go all the way up, does it?\" H.R. wonders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear plate", "response": "(the dinner plate)\nThat is not clothing!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the door", "response": "You make sure the wire is securely inside the keyhole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "The light bulb is lit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the eyehole", "response": "There's a metal plate embedded in the door on the eye level, about three centimeters high and thirty centimeters wide.\n\nH.R. taps the floor with its foot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bulb in the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\n(first taking the light bulb)\nThere is no more room in the drinking glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Point bulb at glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nYou point the light bulb at the drinking glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Point bulb at guard", "response": "You point the light bulb at the guard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the guard", "response": "You would possibly hurt yourself more than the guard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take photo", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe guard grunts and closes the eyehole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bulb in glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nThe lamp fits nicely inside the drinking glass. The glass bends and reflects the light, creating beautiful patterns of light and shadow on the cell walls. The top of the glass throws a weak beam of light on the ceiling.\n\nH.R. burps and covers its mouth with its hand. \"Sorry. Had Mexicans for lunch.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the mexicans", "response": "\"I've never been to Mexico.\"\n\n\"Huhwhat?\" H.R. exclaims.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the glass to the guard", "response": "(the drinking glass to the guard)\n(first taking the drinking glass)\nThe guard doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bulb in the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nThe light bulb is already in the drinking glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask hr about the grue", "response": "\"I have nothing to say now,\" you say to the guard before talking to H.R. \"WHATEVER,\" the guard yells and slides the eyehole shut.\n\n\"Yes, yes, run along now,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the foil in the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nThere is no more room in the drinking glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the foil in the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\nYou put the tin foil into the glass and straighten it against the glass walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the bulb in glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\n(the tin foil)\nYou put the light bulb inside the glass and the tin foil concentrates and reflects the light into a bright beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shine the light at the guard", "response": "(the light bulb at the guard)\n(first taking the light bulb)\nYou point the light bulb at the guard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the flashlight at the guard", "response": "The rectangle on the cell door slides open and a pair of beady eyes appear behind it. \"WHAT is all this RACKET?\" a loud voice behind the door says.\n\nYou point the makeshift flashlight at the guard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the glass at the guard", "response": "(the makeshift flashlight at the guard)\nYou point the makeshift flashlight at the guard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the flashlight at eyes", "response": "You point the makeshift flashlight at the guard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard for the food", "response": "\"SPEAK UP!\" the guard shouts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tell the guard about the monster", "response": "\"No, I mean it! Look at it, there the monster is!\"\n\nThe guard squints. \"NOPE. CAN'T see ANYTHING,\" he shouts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the toilet", "response": "\"WHAT?\" the guard shouts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the guard", "response": "\"So... you're a guard, huh? How's that working for you?\"\n\nThe eyes behind the door squint. \"Are you COMING ON TO ME?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "\"OK THEN,\" the guard roars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about yourself", "response": "\"Don't you know who I am!?\" you demand.\n\"NO,\" the guard replies.\n\n\"Well... uh... I'm Scotty,\" you say.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about Captain", "response": "(the photograph)\n\"You should better let me go peacefully before it's too late! This here is Captain McBrawn and he'll be coming to rescue me and then you will be in big trouble!\"\n\n\"OOH, I'M TREMBLING,\" the guard shouts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about escape", "response": "\"I'm going to break out and save the President!\"\n\n\"HA! I SPIT at your PRESIDENT!\" the guard yells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spit at guard", "response": "That command is too complex; you might want to try to just spit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spit", "response": "That's a nasty habit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the spit", "response": "What do you want to ask the guard about: the puddle of saliva, or the acidic spit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the window", "response": "(the barred window)\nYou're about to ask, but you're not sure how to word the question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the exercise", "response": "Nothing particular about that topic comes to mind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the book", "response": "What do you want to ask the guard about: the encyclopedia, or the Jack Mills novel?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about Jack Mills", "response": "\"I guess that was all,\" you say to the guard before talking to H.R. \"ALL RIGHT THEN,\" the guard yells and slides the eyehole shut.\n\n\"Oh, you have other books too?\" you ask.\n\n\"Yeah, but you wouldn't like this one. It doesn't have any pictures,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show encyclopedia to the hr", "response": "One page comes off the encyclopedia and flutters on the floor.\n\n\"Can I have something else instead?\" you carefully ask. \"Not enough pictures, eh? Well, I'll trade it in but I can't give you anything as nice this time. Let's see... an orange garden hose... no... an electric mixer... hmm... This'll do.\"\n\nIt gives you a can of motor oil.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the oil", "response": "The can contains motor oil, meant to reduce friction of moving parts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the oil on yourself", "response": "That would surely ruin your clothes. Mom would never get the oil out.\n\n\"Your mom is so ugly they moved Halloween to her birthday,\" H.R. says.\n\n\"That's just so not cool!\" you cry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the clothes", "response": "You strip naked.\n\n\"Oh for crying out loud!\" H.R. yells. \"That's really not something I would have wanted to see.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the oil on yourself", "response": "You pour the oil on you and douse yourself with it. Every inch of yourself. Every drop of the oil gets used. The result is one slick and slippery Scotty.\n\n\"My eyes! Is there no mercy for my poor retinas?\" H.R. cries.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the vent", "response": "The motor oil covers your body like sweat on a hot summer night. You slither inside the air duct and pull yourself deeper and deeper inside. Darkness and cold aluminum encloses you from all sides as you twist and turn through the tunnels. Finally there's some light looming from ahead and you slide faster toward it.\n\nJust before you reach the end of the duct a dark shape blocks the light and you're back in near darkness. You force yourself to a halt and stare the figure in the eyes.\n\n\"Hey, it's H.R.! What are you doing here?\" you ask but the creature doesn't reply. It opens its mouth, and the second, and the third. And it hisses.\n\nYou back away in record speed and drop down the grate back to the cell.\n\n\"I see you met my -cousin Herbert-,\" H.R. assumes. \"Now please put some clothes on!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are Scotty, Captain McBrawn's short and a bit round sidekick. You have followed him on his adventures and helped him mostly by staying out of his way, but now you have a mission of your own.\n\nYou are carrying a makeshift flashlight, a photograph, some nail scissors, some iron bars, and a dinner plate and wearing nothing.\n\nAlso, your adventuring clothes and a flux capacitor are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the clothes", "response": "(first taking the adventuring clothes)\nYou put your clothes on.\n\n\"I and my eyes thank you, good sir,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the grate", "response": "The aluminum air duct runs from one wall to another. It's quite large but not set very high, just few centimeters above your head. There's a small opened grate in the bottom of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the cousin", "response": "\"Wait, you knew there was a monster in the air ducts?\" you cry. \"Sure. It's cousin Herbert, hired by the -Screaming Communists- to keep the vents safe,\" H.R. says.\n\n\"Then why didn't you say anything before I went in there!?\"\nH.R. shrugs. \"I thought Herbie might have been hungry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about Herbert", "response": "\"Wait, you knew there was a monster in the air ducts?\" you cry. \"Sure. It's cousin Herbert, hired by the Screaming Communists to keep the vents safe,\" H.R. says.\n\n\"Then why didn't you say anything before I went in there!?\"\nH.R. shrugs. \"I thought Herbie might have been hungry.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about Screaming", "response": "(the Screaming Communists)\n\"What do you think of the Screaming Communists?\" you ask H.R..\n\n\"They're a bit loud for my tastes. And they're not the ideal business partners, either. They tend to rather shoot you and take your stuff instead of trading.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the grate", "response": "That is not something you would carry around.\n\nH.R. yawns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a dinner plate, some iron bars, some nail scissors, a makeshift flashlight, and a flux capacitor are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the photograph", "response": "It's a silhouette of Captain McBrawn cut from a photograph.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the scissors to the hr", "response": "\"Thanks, but I don't need this anymore.\"\n\n\"What am I, a library?\" the creature snaps. \"Very well, I'll trade it in. Let's see... a battering ram... no... some deck chairs from the Titanic... hmm... Oh, I don't know what this is so maybe you can have it then.\"\n\nH.R. throws you a small vial.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vial", "response": "The glass vial is very small and delicate. There's some purple liquid inside it and the words \"DRINK ME\" written on it with beautiful cursive.\n\nH.R. scratches its head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink vial", "response": "You take a sip from the vial. It has a very faint taste, something flowery, but you can't quite put your finger on it. Then suddenly the vial starts to get larger and larger; your clothes seem to grow bigger and the walls and the ceiling seem to move further apart from each other.\n\nYou climb out from under your clothes that are now too huge to wear. The cell and everything in it seems to have grown at least tenfold. H.R. is a towering monster far away.\n\n\"Or could it be that you have just shrunk a lot smaller?\" the creature booms.\n\nVery soon you find out that the effect doesn't last very long: you stretch back to your original size.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vial", "response": "The glass vial is very small and delicate. There's some purple liquid inside it and the words \"DRINK ME\" written on it with beautiful cursive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "The rectangle on the cell door slides open and a pair of beady eyes appear behind it. \"WHAT is all this RACKET?\" a loud voice behind the door says. After a short pause the voice goes: \"Why you... ARE YOU STILL NAKED?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the clothes to guard", "response": "(first taking the adventuring clothes)\nThe guard doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the vial to the guard", "response": "(first taking the potion vial)\nThe guard doesn't seem interested.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the vial to the guard", "response": "The guard doesn't seem interested.\n\nThe guard grunts and closes the eyehole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about Screaming", "response": "(the Screaming Communists)\n\"What does it actually mean being a Screaming Communist?\"\n\n\"You get to SCREAM! And THREATEN PEOPLE! By SCREAMING! AND I LIKE IT!\" he replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shout at the guard", "response": "\"WHAT?\" the guard yells.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the door", "response": "You make sure the wire is securely inside the keyhole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink vial", "response": "You take a sip from the vial and the world starts to grow smaller and smaller. Very soon you are so small you can't see the guard's eyes anymore - and apparently he can't see you either.\n\n\"NOW WHERE did you GO!?\" the guard yells. \"OH BUGGER, I'm going to GET FLOGGED if I let him ESCAPE!\"\n\nHe opens the door and peeks inside. \"HEY! WHERE DID YOU GO!\" You take advantage of the situation and start running through the door.\n\nYou run and run and run for what feels like eternity. Then the potion's effect starts to wear out and you grow quickly to your normal size. You managed to cover almost two meters from the door. Running with legs the size of a toothpick doesn't get one very far. You stand there, naked, grinning to the guard who leaps at you and throws you back inside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the space", "response": "\"YOU STAY HERE and I'll take THIS WITH ME so NO TRICKS ANYMORE!\" the guard shouts and takes the potion vial before slamming the door shut.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The cell walls are of gray stone and a small barred window leads outside to freedom. A silvery air vent runs right above the window. The light bulb illuminates the cell.\n\nThere's an open trapdoor on the floor.\n\nThe creature wags its tail slowly from side to side.\n\nOn the floor are your adventuring clothes, a photograph, a dinner plate, some iron bars, a makeshift flashlight, an article, and a flux capacitor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the citation needed", "response": "\"Dunno about that,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the article to the hr", "response": "(first taking the article)\n\"Thanks, but you should keep it,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the citation", "response": "H.R. seems to have been distracted and missed your question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the wire to the hr", "response": "(first trying to take electrical wire)\nYou pull the wire out from the keyhole.\n\nH.R. digs a paper tissue from its bag and tries to wipe some spit from around its mouth. The tissue sizzles and melts away leaving just a faint trace of smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show wire to the hr", "response": "(first trying to take electrical wire)\nIt won't come out any further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick wire", "response": "Wondering if the wire has any power, you touch it with your tongue.\n\n*kZAP*\n\n\"Ih HOEH hae oheh!\" you discover. \"The lamp's on, but nobody's in the lighthouse, is there?\" H.R. wonders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the hr with the wire", "response": "*kZAP*\n\nH.R. spasms and blinks white light for a while. Trails of smoke rise from its body.\n\n\"Careful with that!\n\" it says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "The rectangle on the cell door slides open and a pair of beady eyes appear behind it. \"WHAT is all this RACKET?\" a loud voice behind the door says. After a short pause the voice goes: \"Why you... ARE YOU STILL NAKED?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the guard with the wire", "response": "\"Stop WAVING THAT THING in front of me!\" the guard screams.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the guard with the wire", "response": "\"Stop WAVING THAT THING in front of me!\" the guard screams.\n\nThe guard grunts and closes the eyehole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick wire", "response": "Wondering if the wire still has any power, you touch it with your tongue.\n\n*kZAP*\n\n\"Ih HOEH hae oheh!\" you discover. \"The elevator doesn't go all the way up, does it?\" H.R. wonders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the capacitor to the hr", "response": "(first taking the flux capacitor)\nYou decide to hold on to it for a bit longer. It might still come useful.\n\nThe numbness on your tongue subsides and some sense returns to it. \"Too bad that doesn't apply to the rest of your head,\" H.R. quips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick wire", "response": "Wondering if the wire still has any power, you touch it with your tongue.\n\n*kZAP*\n\n\"Ih HOEH hae oheh!\" you discover. \"You're not the brightest lamp of the Christmas lights, are you?\" H.R. wonders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick plate", "response": "(the dinner plate)\nYou have eaten a lot of strange stuff, but the dinner plate is not something you want to put in your mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the foil", "response": "(first dropping the flux capacitor to make room)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick puddle", "response": "That would just be too disgusting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the acid in the glass", "response": "(the drinking glass)\n(first trying to take the puddle of saliva)\nYou scoop some of the spit from the floor into the glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour the acid on plate", "response": "(the acidic spit on the dinner plate)\n(first taking the acidic spit)\nYou pour a few drops of the spit on the dinner plate. The spit sizzles away in trails of smoke, leaving brown spots where it landed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick hr", "response": "\"Would you mind if I licked you a bit?\"\n\n\"Yes. Yes I very much would,\" H.R. objects.\n\nThe numbness on your tongue subsides and some sense returns to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick wire", "response": "Wondering if the wire still has any power, you touch it with your tongue.\n\n*kZAP*\n\n\"Ih HOEH hae oheh!\" you discover. \"There's no battery in your remote, is there?\" H.R. wonders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick wire", "response": "Wondering if the wire still has any power, you touch it with your tongue.\n\n*kZAP*\n\n\"Ih HOEH hae oheh!\" you discover. \"The elevator doesn't go all the way up, does it?\" H.R. wonders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the wire on the flux capacitor", "response": "(first trying to take electrical wire)\nIt won't come out any further.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break plate", "response": "(the dinner plate)\nYou would possibly hurt yourself more than the dinner plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the plate to the flux", "response": "(the dinner plate to the flux capacitor)\nYou can't attach them together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the capacitor on the wire", "response": "(first taking the flux capacitor)\nPutting things on electrical wire would probably not get you any closer to escaping.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the capacitor to the wire", "response": "You can't attach them together.\n\nThe numbness on your tongue subsides and some sense returns to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw plate", "response": "(the dinner plate)\nThe dinner plate is already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trapdoor", "response": "(the dinner plate in the trapdoor)\n(first taking the dinner plate)\n(first dropping the flux capacitor to make room)\nThe dinner plate falls down the trapdoor and lands back in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the barsa", "response": "It's a wooden trapdoor set in the floor. Looking closely you can see a small switch on the side of it.\n\nThere's no such thing here now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the bars", "response": "You can't attach them together.\n\nH.R. burps and covers its mouth with its hand. \"Sorry. Had Mexicans for lunch.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the switch", "response": "The small switch on the trapdoor has been pushed to one side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the switch", "response": "You flip the switch and the trapdoor slides effortlessly to the middle of the room. Where it used to be only solid stone floor remains.\n\n\"How curious,\" you muse. H.R. raises the spot above its eye where people usually have eyebrows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the switch", "response": "The trapdoor slides to the right side of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the power", "response": "The power dial goes from zero to 1.21 gigawatts. It's currently pointing at the maximum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put capacitor in trapdoor", "response": "(first taking the flux capacitor)\nThe flux capacitor falls down the trapdoor and lands back in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ceiling", "response": "The ceiling is far above the ground. The trapdoor hangs open in the ceiling on the opposite side of itself. Which is a bit strange, but hey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ceiling trapdoor", "response": "That command is too complex; you might want to try to just examine the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the switch", "response": "The trapdoor slides to the middle of the room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the switch", "response": "The trapdoor slides to the right side of the room.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You jump down the trapdoor and land back into the cell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look down", "response": "(the floor)\nThe stone floor is a dirty and cold.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trapdoor", "response": "It's a wooden trapdoor set in the floor. Looking closely you can see a small switch on the side of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the trapdoor", "response": "The flux capacitor is already here.\n\nIt's a wooden trapdoor set in the floor. Looking closely you can see a small switch on the side of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flux", "response": "The flux capacitor has a window on one side where you can see some tubes in Y shape inside. Red labels are pasted all over the device, the one on top saying \"FLUX CAPACITOR\". The two dials are labeled \"POWER\" and \"SPEED\" and there's a pin with a picture of a lightning bolt next to it. It is very heavy.\n\nThe tubes inside are blinking bright white light and the device hums silently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the trapdoor", "response": "The power dial goes from zero to 1.21 gigawatts. It's currently pointing at the maximum.\n\nYou can't attach them together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick wire", "response": "Wondering if the wire still has any power, you touch it with your tongue.\n\n*kZAP*\n\n\"Ih HOEH hae oheh!\" you discover. \"There's no mayo in your sandwich, is there?\" H.R. wonders.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the trapdoor", "response": "\"Ha hoh? Hew mah howeh huh.\"\n\n\"Sorry, but I don't speak Dimwit,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter trapdoor", "response": "H.R. looks at you.\n\nOn the floor are a flux capacitor, a dinner plate, a tin foil (in which is a light bulb), a drinking glass, your adventuring clothes, a photograph, and some iron bars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about guard", "response": "\"So... you're a guard, huh? How's that working for you?\"\n\nThe eyes behind the door squint. \"Are you COMING ON TO ME?\"\n\nThe numbness on your tongue subsides and some sense returns to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick wire", "response": "Wondering if the wire still has any power, you touch it with your tongue.\n\n*kZAP*\n\n\"Ih HOEH hae oheh!\" you discover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the guard about the door", "response": "\"Could you please open the door?\" you ask.\n\n\"HA! HA! HA HA HA! HA! HA HA!\" is all he replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the trapdoor", "response": "The guard eyes you through the eyehole.\n\nH.R. stands there next to a large burlap sack.\n\nOn the floor are a flux capacitor, a dinner plate, a tin foil (in which is a light bulb), a drinking glass, your adventuring clothes, a photograph, and some iron bars.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "You wait for a while.\n\nThe guard grunts and closes the eyehole.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You jump down the trapdoor and find yourself back in the cell. Since the trapdoor is in the middle of the room, you fall through it again. And again. And again.\n\n\"Uh.. A little help here?\" you ask after falling for some while. The surroundings are just one big blur and it's giving you a headache. \"Oh, all right, you big baby,\" the creature says and shuffles towards the trapdoor. It flips the switch and the trapdoor slides to one side.\n\nYour fall comes to an abrupt end as you smash on the floor. \"Owee,\" you cry and climb on your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the switch", "response": "The trapdoor slides to the middle of the room.\n\nThe numbness on your tongue subsides and some sense returns to it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the capacitor", "response": "You lift the flux capacitor to your arms.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You jump down the trapdoor holding the flux capacitor.\nThe speed dial's needle on the flux capacitor approaches the 88 mph mark quickly as you fall faster and faster. Colorful sparks fly to the air from the device and when it reaches the mark, there's a blinding bright flash of white light.\n\nYou crash on the floor. Or, rather, ground - the stone floor is gone. Along with the rest of the castle.\n\nThis is definitely the same place. You recognize the surroundings as the same, but there's nothing but some construction materials lying around.\n\nDark clouds are gathering above.\n\n*kZAP*\n\nA lightning bolt strikes the flux capacitor and there's another bright flash. Stupefied you stand in the cell again, smoke rising from your ears.\n\n\"Mmm. Smoked monkey,\" H.R. says and licks the part of its face where lips usually are.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the capacitor to the hr", "response": "\"I don't need this anymore.\"\n\nH.R. sighs. \"Of course you don't need it anymore, it's a funking smoldering piece of twisted metal after you got your hands to it!\" It yanks the thing from your hands. \"I'll get you something, but just so you'll know I'm not happy about this. I have mouths to feed! Let's see... a teleporter... no... an Internet... hmm... Aha, this just takes up room.\"\n\nThe creature pulls out an improbably large structure of wood and metal. It's many times larger than the sack. \"I guess I did have a -trebuchet- there!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the leaflet", "response": "It's a manual leaflet for operating the trebuchet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "\"Thank you for purchasing a WallBreaker(tm) catapult! You are now the proud owner of a finest piece of modern medieval siege equipment.\n\nTo operate your WallBreaker(tm) catapult:\n1) load the mechanism by turning the winch until the arm has come all the way down.\n2) insert ammunition (sold separately) on the cup located at the end\nof the arm.\n3) pull the lever.\n4) repeat until the enemy's defensive structures have fallen.\n5) storm the castle with your army.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn winch", "response": "The winch is missing its handles. You can't get a good grip.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trebuchet", "response": "You can't attach them together.\n\nThe catapult is a huge wooden structure on four cracked and worn wheels. There's a lever on the side and a mechanism that is apparently meant to throw objects at a great distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mechanism", "response": "What do you want to examine: the catapult, or the winch?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the winch", "response": "A round wooden disc connects to the machinery with an axle, where it winds the mechanism. It seems to be missing its handles. There are just holes in regular intervals around the rim of the disc.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put bars in holes", "response": "(first taking the iron bars)\nYou insert the bars into the holes in the winch. They fit perfectly.\n\n\"Isn't that just convenient,\" H.R. remarks.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn winch", "response": "You turn the winch with all your might and the catapult's mechanism screams and wails as the arm tensions and lowers down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the trebuchet", "response": "That's not something you can sit down on.\n\nH.R. burps and covers its mouth with its hand. \"Sorry. Had Mexicans for lunch.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the trebuchet", "response": "The catapult is a huge wooden structure on four cracked and worn wheels. There's a lever on the side and a mechanism that is apparently meant to throw objects at a great distance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the plate on the trebuchet", "response": "(the dinner plate on the catapult)\n(first taking the dinner plate)\nYou wedge the plate into the catapult's arm. It looks like it should hold nicely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the lever", "response": "The catapult's arm snaps forward with tremendous force and stops abruptly at the highest peak.\n\n\"Whee,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the plate", "response": "(the dinner plate)\nYou climb on the dinner plate and ponder the situation. \"Let's see... I need something heavy to bring down the wall. Something heavy and large...\"\n\nYou hear H.R. whirr and click with its mouth. \"I wonder what this does,\" it says.\n\nYou glance down and see that it fiddles with the catapult's release lever. \"Don't...\" you have time to say before it yanks the lever fully back.\n\n\"YYYAAAAEEEOOUU\" *crash*\n\nYou have only a faint recollection of what happens next: there seems to be a lot of screaming and hassle around you. And sharp pain, well, everywhere. Eventually you find yourself back in the cell, still a bit dazzled.\n\n\"Wow, that was spectacular,\" H.R. says. \"You brought almost the entire wall down. Too bad you weren't conscious enough to make much use of the situation.\"\n\n\"The Screaming Communists on the other hand were very efficient. They built the wall again and removed the catapult to prevent any further 'accidents',\" it continues.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the manual to the hr", "response": "\"No thanks,\" the creature says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the foil in the glass", "response": "You put the tin foil with the light bulb inside into the glass and straighten the foil against the glass walls. The foil concentrates the light into a bright beam of light.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to door", "response": "You tuck the live end of the wire into the keyhole.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the silhouette on the glass", "response": "(first taking the photograph)\nYou put Captain McBrawn's silhouette on top of the drinking glass.\n\nThe beam of light emitting from the drinking glass casts a shadow on the wall shaped like the Captain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You point the flashlight at the window", "response": "Captain McBrawn's silhouette reflects clearly to the clouds above. You hold the glass in your hand for several minutes, then support it in the window sill and leave it there.\n\n\"What happens now?\" H.R. asks. \"Is this the cue for you to put on your clothes?\"\n\n\"No! We wait. Captain McBrawn will be here any minute now.\" H.R. shrugs and stays silent.\n\nYou wait, and wait, and wait. You pace the room from one end to the other again and again. Finally the light bulb flickers ominously and finally burns out completely.\n\nA dreadful darkness falls into the cell but it doesn't last long when the moon comes back from behind the clouds and lights the room with an eerie glow. You give a defeated sigh. H.R. gives you a melancholic look.\n\nA bit later you hear muffled sounds from the corridor. They seem to get louder and louder and you can make out screams and thuds and thumps. You glance hopefully at H.R. who grins and gives you a thumbs-up.\n\n*khaZAM!*\n\nThe door practically EXPLODES inwards when the guard's unconscious body flies through it and bright light flows in the cell. You recognize the shadow of the man standing in the door frame.\n\nYes. It is Captain McBrawn.\n\n\"Fear NOT! For I, Captain McBrawn, am here!\" He comes in and stands tall in front of you, hands by his waist and holding his sculpture-like chin high. \"Let us leave this dreadful place!\"\n\nYou lower your head. \"I have to confess... You told me to go find the President. I didn't get there. The Screaming Communists captured me right away and I failed the mission.\" The Captain laughs warmly. \"Do not worry! I foiled their evil plot with little trouble and came looking for you. The searchlight was very clever of you.\"\n\n\"Well, I had some help...\" you say and point at H.R. - but it's gone. You're almost sure you see the tip of its tail disappearing in the ventilation duct. The Captain isn't paying much attention. \"Let's go home,\" he says.\n\nYou step over the knocked-out guard and leave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Escapes", "response": "You can escape the cell in following ways:\n\n- pour H.R.'s spit on the window bars\n- attach the toilet hole to the door and unlock it\n- accelerate to 88 mph while holding the flux capacitor\n- trap the cell door's lock with an exposed live wire\n- bribe the guard with the whiskey bottle\n- enter the air ducts\n- move the trapdoor opening sticker to the cell door\n- cheat the guard by drinking the magic potion\n- repair the trebuchet and break the door down with it\n- build a searchlight and call McBrawn for help\n\nWould you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, QUIT, review your SCORE, or see all available ESCAPES (includes spoilers)?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The cell walls are of gray stone and a small barred window leads outside to freedom. A silvery air vent runs right above the window. A light bulb hangs from the ceiling illuminating the cell.\n\nThere's a closed trapdoor on the floor.\n\nH.R. waves at you.\n\nOn the floor are some iron bars, a flux capacitor, and some glue remover.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying a drinking glass, an encyclopedia (in which is a whiskey bottle), and a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a flux capacitor and some glue remover are on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the door", "response": "(ktonk)\n\n(first trying to take electrical wire)\n\"I warned you!\" you yell and pull the bulb as hard as you can. The wire snaps and you're left with a bulb attached to nothing but its socket.\n\nMiraculously enough the bulb is still lit even when it's not connected to anything. \"Hmm,\" H.R. muses.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the whiskey to guard", "response": "\"Would you be interested in a... little drink?\" you say and dangle the bottle in front of the eyehole. \"Uh, is that MEISTERJ?GER? I most certainly SHOULD NOT... Maybe a little bit, JUST TO KEEP ME WARM ... JUST SLIP it through the HOLE, will you?\" \"It won't fit through,\" you remark. \"I must open the door... But KEEP IT QUIET, WILL YOU?\"\n\nThere's a click from the keyhole and the door opens slightly. You slip the bottle to the guard who snatches it from your hand and slams the door shut. In his excitement he doesn't remember to lock the door! You wait for a moment and open it very carefully.\n\nThe guard is enjoying his prize and doesn't notice you slipping through the door. You navigate through the castle corridors until you stop behind a door where you hear conversation behind it.\n\n\"DID YOU HEAR that FEDOR has found a BOTTLE OF MEISTERJ?GER?\" a voice yells.\n\n\"Meisterj?ger? AND HE'S NOT SHARING?\" another voice shouts. Several other voices murmur in unison. It gets harder to hear, but it seems they all decide to pay a visit to Fedor and his bottle. By the time you've deduced this, the door opens and twenty Screaming Communists march out.\n\n\"FEDOR, you OLD DRUNK we've come to DRINK FOR YOUR HEALTH and we've BROUGHT YOU A PRESENT,\" they shout as they shove you to his lap.\n\n\"ALL RIGHT, IN WE GO,\" Fedor shouts and inserts a key in the cell door lock.\n\n*kZAP*\n\nHe gets a hefty shock from the keyhole, releasing you from his grip. You bolt away - but bump into the other guards. \"FORGOT US, did you? STOP SPASMING FEDOR and do your JOB!\"\n\nThe sounds of the Screaming Communists gradually die out when the bottle is finally empty and you're back in the cell with H.R.\n\n\"Welcome back,\" it says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "Warning! You are about to spoil the game for yourself! If you are absolutely sure you need a hint, type HINT again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "\"I bet there's something here you could trade with me,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "\"Often after you've used some item you can trade it in,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "\"Just try giving me anything you carry or what is in the cell,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The cell walls are of gray stone and a small barred window leads outside to freedom. A silvery air vent runs right above the window. The light bulb illuminates the cell.\n\nThere's an open trapdoor on the floor.\n\nH.R. waves at you.\n\nOn the floor are a flux capacitor, some iron bars, and a drinking glass.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying an encyclopedia (in which is a light bulb) and a photograph and wearing your adventuring clothes.\n\nAlso, a flux capacitor, some iron bars, and a drinking glass are on the floor.\n\nThere's a knock on the door. Not waiting for a response the guard opens the door and shouts: \"Your DINNER IS HERE!\" He throws a plate in the cell with a silvery package on it and locks the door again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "\"Often after you've used some item you can trade it in,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You wait for a while.\n\n\"Booooring,\" H.R. says and yawns.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dinner", "response": "There's a tin foil on the plate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the wire to the door", "response": "You tuck the live end of the wire into the keyhole.\n\n\"Aww, that's just nasty,\" H.R. says.\n\nThere's a knock on the door. The guard doesn't wait for a response but starts turning the key in the lock and shouts: \"Your DINNER IS...\"\n\n*kZap*\n\nThe electrical wire gives a good shock to the guard and he flies backwards to the opposite wall. You go see if the door opened - and it did! You take off into the corridors.\n\nAfter wandering around the castle for some while you realize you have no idea where you are. The corridors and staircases create a maze where you just can't know where you're going.\n\nYou turn around a corner and bump into the guard who is still a bit dazed. He reacts quickly now and grabs a hold of you. \"And STAY THERE!\" he shouts when he throws you back in the cell.\n\nA plate with a tin foil bundle on it has been left in the cell.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "H.R.'s voice says, \"Oh come on! Talk about beating a dead horse!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Escape", "response": "Yes, that would be the general idea. You just have to be a bit more specific.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Escape cell", "response": "That command is too complex; you might want to try to just escape.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask HR about the cell", "response": "\"What is this place anyhow? Where are we?\"\n\n\"This is Castle Schweinehund,\" H.R. tells you. \"Story goes that the previous owners built it on an ancient burial ground and used it to perform occultist rituals, opening portals to other worlds and so on. Sounds like old wives' tales to me,\" it says and runs its hand across its tail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the magic", "response": "\"Yes, yes, run along now,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "About Escapade!\n> How to play\nTalking with characters\nSettings\nLicense\n\nAbout Escapade!\n> How to play\nTalking with characters\nSettings\nLicense", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "About Escapade!\nHow to play\n> Talking with characters\nSettings\nLicense\n\nAbout Escapade!\nHow to play\n> Talking with characters\nSettings\nLicense", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "About Escapade!\nHow to play\nTalking with characters\n> Settings\nLicense\n\nAbout Escapade!\nHow to play\nTalking with characters\n> Settings\nLicense", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "About Escapade!\nHow to play\nTalking with characters\nSettings\n> License\n\nAbout Escapade!\nHow to play\nTalking with characters\nSettings\n> License", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "About Escapade!\nHow to play\nTalking with characters\nSettings\nLicense\n\n> About Escapade!\nHow to play\nTalking with characters\nSettings\nLicense\nEscapade! was an entry to the One Room Game Competition 2008 where it finished second out of seven games and was later nominated for three XYZZY awards.\n\nIf you get stuck, there's a HINT command and a walkthrough included in a separate file. The hints and the walkthrough will cover only the minimum solution, so there will still be some optional puzzles you have to find the solution without help.\n\nThe source code is distributed with the game. You can also download it from http://www.nitku.net/if/escapade/. You are free to modify the game or use snippets from the code; see LICENSE for details.\n\nThere's a good chance of a post-competition release. If you find bugs or you have other suggestions, please email me.\nI'm also interested in seeing transcripts of playthroughs.\n\nAnd last but not least, a big thank you to the playtesters: Taleslinger, Mike Tarbert, Christian Moura, George Oliver, Jim Aikin, S. John Ross, and Roger Carbol. Thank you to everyone who later sent transcripts of their plays. This would have been a lesser game without your help.\n\n> About Escapade!\nHow to play\nTalking with characters\nSettings\nLicense\n\n> About Escapade!\nHow to play\nTalking with characters\nSettings\nLicense", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Kiss clothes", "response": "Keep your mind on the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the clothes to the hrthe .", "response": "(first taking the clothes off)\n\"Look, we made a deal and you should keep it. I don't take extortion lightly,\" H.R. snaps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the clothes in the trapdoor", "response": "The adventuring clothes fall down the trapdoor and land back in front of you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the clothes", "response": "Mmm. Mom has used the good fabric softener.\n\n\"I hear your mom lost some weight so they changed her classification to dwarf planet,\" H.R. quips.\n\n\"Hey! Don't talk like that about my mom!\" you yell at it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the clothes", "response": "Let's leave that to orcs and such.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell the clothes", "response": "They smell like... you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search clothes", "response": "They are a pair of green pocketless pants and a gray wool sweater. Your adventuring clothes - that's what mom said when she bought them. They've turned out being not very well suited for the purpose though. They're very thick and a bit too big.\n\n\"Your mom is so ugly they moved Halloween to her birthday,\" H.R. says.\n\n\"That's just so not cool!\" you cry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine them", "response": "They are a pair of green pocketless pants and a gray wool sweater. Your adventuring clothes - that's what mom said when she bought them. They've turned out being not very well suited for the purpose though. They're very thick and a bit too big.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read them", "response": "There are no care labels. Mom knows how to wash them even without.\n\n\"Your mom is so poor her picture is on the food stamp,\" H.R. says.\n\n\"Shut up, you... whatever you are,\" you snap at the thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You squeeze them", "response": "They're all dry already.\n\nH.R. digs a paper tissue from its bag and tries to wipe some spit from around its mouth. The tissue sizzles and melts away leaving just a faint trace of smoke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw them", "response": "The adventuring clothes are already here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "You proudly hum Captain McBrawn's theme song and regain a good dose of courage and morale.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fuck", "response": "Such language! What would your mother think of you?\n\n\"Your mom is so clumsy, when she falls down she misses the ground,\" H.R. says.\n\n\"Why are you being so mean,\" you cry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the hr about the mom", "response": "\"Yes, yes, run along now,\" H.R. says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pause", "response": "The game is now paused. Type any command to continue.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "absurd", "africa", "djibouti", "female protagonist", "France", "humor", "humour", "SpeedIF August 2007", "steampunk", "transformation", "walkthrough" ]

[ 0, 2, 3, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "That wacky Neil deMause! What will he think of next? Why, the last time you tried to visit him, you got stuck on Ellis Island for hours, and ended up years in the past talking to a goat. Boy, you were really \"Lost in New York\" that time (heh heh). And history seems to have repeated itself, because here it is Halloween, and here you are, wandering through the streets in the fog, looking for his apartment again. Sheesh.\n\nIt's a good thing it's too foggy to make out any details, because\nI've spent all of three hours in New York, and they were all at the airport waiting to switch flights. Still, you can make out a street going north (how did you get into this dead end, anyway?)\nA jack-o-lantern sits in the middle of the street to the north.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are empty-handed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "You look about the same as always.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the lantern", "response": "It seems like a pretty standard jack-o-lantern: orange pumpkiny goodness carved into a face, candle inside, eyes shining at you with demonic hate -- the usual. The only thing that's a little unusual is the half-burned note sticking out of its mouth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the lantern", "response": "You take a step or two towards the pumpkin. A sudden gust of wind makes the fog swirl, obscuring it for a moment despite the candle's glow, and then it's gone. Huh. Weeeyurd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "That wacky Neil deMause! What will he think of next? Why, the last time you tried to visit him, you got stuck on Ellis Island for hours, and ended up years in the past talking to a goat. Boy, you were really \"Lost in New York\" that time (heh heh). And history seems to have repeated itself, because here it is Halloween, and here you are, wandering through the streets in the fog, looking for his apartment again. Sheesh.\n\nIt's a good thing it's too foggy to make out any details, because\nI've spent all of three hours in New York, and they were all at the airport waiting to switch flights. Still, you can make out a street going north (how did you get into this dead end, anyway?)\nA jack-o-lantern sits in the middle of the street to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You walk forward into the fog.\nSomeplace Else in New York\nYou're still lost, but at least you know you aren't where you were before. So you must be, erm, someplace else. The street bends, so you can go either east or south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You pause for a moment as you start to walk again. Did you .. hear something? Nah. Couldn't be.\nA Third Place in New York\nSteadily narrowing down the options, you plan on having the whole of New York mapped any time now. *Including* the secret passage from the Kitchen to the Library. Streets lead west and north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Again, you pause. There's definitely something out there. Something nasty. Something big. Something orange.\nA Fourth Room in New York\nSomeplace else. Someplace foggy. Someplace sinister.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Someplace else. Someplace foggy. Someplace sinister.\n\n\"Ha!\" you reassure yourself \"There's nothing out there! And if there were, it would never leap onto my back suddenly and clasp its slimy hands around my throat and slowly squeeze until all my life was crushed out. It'd just rip my chest open and feast on my entrails.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "This seems to be the end of the line. Your last stand. The final battle. No wait out but dead man's boots.\n\n(Dramatic pause).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This seems to be the end of the line. Your last stand. The final battle. No wait out but dead man's boots.\n\nEEEAGH! FLYING DEMONIC PUMPKIN HEAD!!!\n\nWhen the horror finally ends, you're someplace else.\nSomeplace else in New York\nAnother time .. another place. Or is it? One moment seems to\nblend into another, one stretch of pavement becomes the same as any other. It's tough being a hard-boiled detective, tossed off the police force because you knew too much about the kickbacks being paid to the guys up top. Yeah, it's tough, on your own, in-debt and half-drunk to forget the pain of a broken heart. So it's a good thing you're not one. You're just J Random Protagonist, remember? Now go find neild's house. I think it's north of here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "No, wait, I guess it's west of here. (Take *that*, fourth wall!)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You walk west, and find yourself on the doorstep of Neil's house. Your quest is over! ... or is it??\nOutside Neil deMause's House\nFor ease of narration, his apartment got turned into a house\nsometime. Or maybe you went inside and are standing outside the door to his room. Whatever.\nYou see a door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "It's a door. Dare ye knock? Also, the address is 1313.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "You knock three times:\nbang!\nbang!\nbang!\nThe door sloooowly creeeeeeaks opeeeeeen....", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have a cookies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cookies", "response": "The cookies slide down your throat and you quickly are full. Also, \"wooden wood\". Ha!\nThere is a sudden knocking at the door.\n\"Oh no!\" says neild, \"It's the pumpkinhead! Lets hide!\" Neil hides in the kitchen. You hide in the closet.\n\nThis is the closet. It has stuff in it. There is a wall. And\nanother wall. Also there is a coatrack.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rack", "response": "it's made out of wood. and varnished. and nailed to the wall. and there, right smack in the center of it, is a HOOK", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at another the wall", "response": "hey this wall has a secret passage in it!!! You can push it!!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "%", "response": "That wacky Neil deMause! What will he think of next? Why, the last time you tried to visit him, you got stuck on Ellis Island for hours, and ended up years in the past talking to a goat. Boy, you were really \"Lost in New York\" that time (heh heh). And history seems to have repeated itself, because here it is Halloween, and here you are, wandering through the streets in the fog, looking for his apartment again. Sheesh.\n\nIt's a good thing it's too foggy to make out any details, because\nI've spent all of three hours in New York, and they were all at the airport waiting to switch flights. Still, you can make out a street going north (how did you get into this dead end, anyway?)\nA jack-o-lantern sits in the middle of the street to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "It's a good thing it's too foggy to make out any details, because\nI've spent all of three hours in New York, and they were all at the airport waiting to switch flights. Still, you can make out a street going north (how did you get into this dead end, anyway?)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You walk forward into the fog.\nSomeplace Else in New York\nYou're still lost, but at least you know you aren't where you were before. So you must be, erm, someplace else. The street bends, so you can go either east or south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You pause for a moment as you start to walk again. Did you .. hear something? Nah. Couldn't be.\nA Third Place in New York\nSteadily narrowing down the options, you plan on having the whole of New York mapped any time now. *Including* the secret passage from the Kitchen to the Library. Streets lead west and north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You walk into the fog.\nSomeplace Else in New York", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You walk into the fog.\nA Third Place in New York", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This seems to be the end of the line. Your last stand. The final battle. No wait out but dead man's boots.\n\n\"Ha!\" you reassure yourself \"There's nothing out there! And if there were, it would never leap onto my back suddenly and clasp its slimy hands around my throat and slowly squeeze until all my life was crushed out. It'd just rip my chest open and feast on my entrails.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "This seems to be the end of the line. Your last stand. The final battle. No wait out but dead man's boots.\n\n(Dramatic pause).\nI beg your pardon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "This seems to be the end of the line. Your last stand. The final battle. No wait out but dead man's boots.\n\nEEEAGH! FLYING DEMONIC PUMPKIN HEAD!!!\n\nWhen the horror finally ends, you're someplace else.\nSomeplace else in New York\nAnother time .. another place. Or is it? One moment seems to\nblend into another, one stretch of pavement becomes the same as any other. It's tough being a hard-boiled detective, tossed off the police force because you knew too much about the kickbacks being paid to the guys up top. Yeah, it's tough, on your own, in-debt and half-drunk to forget the pain of a broken heart. So it's a good thing you're not one. You're just J Random Protagonist, remember? Now go find neild's house. I think it's north of here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "No, wait, I guess it's west of here. (Take *that*, fourth wall!)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You walk west, and find yourself on the doorstep of Neil's house. Your quest is over! ... or is it??\nOutside Neil deMause's House\nFor ease of narration, his apartment got turned into a house\nsometime. Or maybe you went inside and are standing outside the door to his room. Whatever.\nYou see a door here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You knock on the door", "response": "You knock three times:\nbang!\nbang!\nbang!\nThe door sloooowly creeeeeeaks opeeeeeen....\nIt's yor frend!\n\nneild invites you inside and gives you cookies.\n\nInside Neil deMause's House/Apartment\nDepending on which path you took to get here, this is either Neil deMause's House or his Apartment.\nNeil deMause is here. Yaaay!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the cookies", "response": "The cookies slide down your throat and you quickly are full. Also, \"wooden wood\". Ha!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "%", "response": "The Spirit of Speed-IF is universally regarded as the most formidable dirigible battle platform in East Africa, if not the world; its india-rubber gussets alone cost half the annual revenues of the Ottoman Empire. Its recent loss to the French, therefore, can scarcely be countenanced.\n\nHeadquarters had little option; the Escadrille Patissiers Volants will rendez-vous by dawn, at which point the Spirit will be irrevocably lost. They didn't like it, but they had little choice but to send you in.\n\nA Speed-IF by Sam Kabo Ashwell\n\nType ABOUT for SpeedIF details.\n\nThe Ergomatic Wing crash-landed (it knows no other variety) amid a clump of wilted-looking thornbushes and unaccomodating rocks. Sun-bleached grass extends in every direction, but the southern prospect is improved by Fort Yaourt-Framboise. And floating above it, the sublime bulges of the Spirit, cruelly tethered by French guile.\n\nA fearsome goat crops the grass nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na Hennings-Jobson Sophical Discombobulator (loaded with waggishness)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You discombobulate the goat", "response": "You carefully size up the savage brute, brush four or five clockwork range-finders and optical scopes out of your line of sight, and pop the bugger square between the eyes. It bleats plaintively, and there is a satisfying clunk from the Discombobulator's fluid reservoirs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na Hennings-Jobson Sophical Discombobulator (loaded with fearsomeness)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the goat", "response": "A feral Eritrean scrub-goat, if you are any judge, and six years of handing out blue ribbons at the All-Sussex Caprine Fanciers Exposition has to count for something. A pretty poor specimen, all things considered; it stares fixedly at the horizon, expressionless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Spirit", "response": "Beyond the descriptive powers of the era's finest poets, the Spirit of Speed-IF is the most terrifying engine ever to grace a battlefield. If its dozen Maxim-gun turrets (operated, it is rumoured, by monkeys endowed by vivisection with unholy powers of intelligence) do not sweep all foes before it, the Strauss-Gorvinsky Patent Optical-Precision Grip Extender may, from the secure heights of the stratosphere, pluck unsuspecting enemy commanders from their tents and bring their plans to ruination.\n\nLamentably, at this distance such details cannot be discerned; you shall have to savour them after the Spirit's rescue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "There are no legionnaires in evidence, so you stroll unimpeded through the fort's front gates.\n\nGood lord, standards in the Foreign Legion have finally outdone the rumours. No gate guard, no military police, that distinctive smell from the latrines that invariably means every man jack of em's lousy with the clap.\nA rope-ladder leads upwards, into the underbelly of the great dirigible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "In theory, this vast hangar should house the dirigible's support biplanes, but the theft was effected during a sortie and all are absent. Its other role, as general storage shed, is more apparent. A series of ladders and gantries lead up into more habitable regions of the airship.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "Thanks to automation, the Spirit of Speed-IF may be fully controlled in the fiercest of conflicts by a single trained pilot, leaving the remaining one hundred and seventy-two flight officers to observe the battle from the comfort of the Observation Lounge Bar (west).\n\nThe controls are powered down. To blazes with those conniving cheese-eaters! You'll have to find some other way to gain control of the ship.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "No battle-platform worthy of the name lacks an officer's bar. The Spirit was intended to be the crowning glory of the superplatform class, outdoing the British Lady Spankingleigh and even the Tibetan Vengeful Yak. Military analysts may quibble over their relative superiority in battle, but when it comes to the bar, they'll pick the Spirit every time. Gangways lead east and west.\nAn immense T'ang ashtray dominates the room's centre. Formerly there was an ornamental fountain, but it kept getting choked with cigar butts.\n\nA military waiter - crew-cut, moustaches, khaki fatigues, sneer - regards you with utter contempt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the ashtray", "response": "A frankly monumental ashtray, a scattering of cigar-butts barely covering its dish. It must serve some kind of function as ballast. It must have been a gift of some kind from the Dowager Empress, judging by the T'ang bas-reliefs. Some temple in Guangdong is short one incense-burner, by the looks of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You shoot waiter", "response": "With Gallic stubbornness, he hangs onto his vital essences. Hang it all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gun", "response": "In appearance, the Hennings-Jobson Sophical Discombobulator resembles an elaborately decorated carbine, bristling with antennae, hydraulic tubing, miniature gyroscopes and similar improbable attachments. You have as yet been instructed in the use of only three controls: the trigger that performs discombobulation, its recombobulating partner, and the screw that, tightened appropriately, primes the recombobulation barrel with stored essences.\nThe fearsome essential fluid is currently chambered.\n\n(You may discombobulate objects with the command DISCOMBOBULATE, abbreviated to DIS, and recombobulate them again with RECOMBOBUBLATE or REC.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec waiter", "response": "Fwoosh.\n\nWith a bestial howl, the waiter springs upon you and rips off your limbs like so many soiled serviettes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "It takes a massive power source to locomote the ship's phlogiston turbines, power the anbaric conduits and keep the brain of Babbage's Automatic Aeronaut Cognition Engine wound; deep within the heart of the seething, cacophanous engine lies the 9-dimensional aitchgeewellsium crystal that generates all this vigour, through the miracle of radioactivition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crystal", "response": "Aitchgeewellsium is a rare element, invariably warm to the touch and with a luminescent quality. It is also known for its receptivity to fluid essences - this particular crystal has been imbued with 9-dimensionality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dis crystal", "response": "Clenching your teeth, you level the Discombobulator at the crystal, mutter a brief prayer to nobody in particular, and fire.\nFrom every direction, unseen machines sigh, rumble and wheeze to a standstill. A chilling silence, broken only by the flap of wind against the envelope.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na Hennings-Jobson Sophical Discombobulator (loaded with 9-dimensionality)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the crystal", "response": "Aitchgeewellsium is a rare element, invariably warm to the touch and with a luminescent quality. It is also known for its receptivity to fluid essences - this particular crystal has been imbued with Mundanity.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Discombobulator", "response": "In appearance, the Hennings-Jobson Sophical Discombobulator resembles an elaborately decorated carbine, bristling with antennae, hydraulic tubing, miniature gyroscopes and similar improbable attachments. You have as yet been instructed in the use of only three controls: the trigger that performs discombobulation, its recombobulating partner, and the screw that, tightened appropriately, primes the recombobulation barrel with stored essences.\nThe 9-dimensional essential fluid is currently chambered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn screw", "response": "You give the selection screw a half-turn. The essence of waggishness rises into the firing chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn screw", "response": "You give the selection screw a half-turn. The essence of fearsomeness rises into the firing chamber.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "It takes a massive power source to locomote the ship's phlogiston turbines, power the anbaric conduits and keep the brain of Babbage's Automatic Aeronaut Cognition Engine wound; deep within the heart of the seething, cacophanous engine lies the nondescript aitchgeewellsium crystal that generates all this vigour, through the miracle of radioactivition.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A military waiter - crew-cut, moustaches, khaki fatigues, sneer - regards you with utter contempt.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec waiter", "response": "Fwoosh.\n\nThe waiter leans over to you, leers, and says something. You don't speak a bloody word of Froggy-talk, but it's obvious that there was at least one dreadful pun and two innuendoes in there. Incensed, you cosh him over the noggin, drag him to a convenient escape hatch, and lob him over the side.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec ashtray", "response": "It appears that Ashtray already has a vital essence, and it would be foolhardy to try and intermix them outside the laboratory. You forbear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dis ashtray", "response": "Zooosh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gun", "response": "In appearance, the Hennings-Jobson Sophical Discombobulator resembles an elaborately decorated carbine, bristling with antennae, hydraulic tubing, miniature gyroscopes and similar improbable attachments. You have as yet been instructed in the use of only three controls: the trigger that performs discombobulation, its recombobulating partner, and the screw that, tightened appropriately, primes the recombobulation barrel with stored essences.\nThe T'ang essential fluid is currently chambered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Ashtray", "response": "A frankly monumental ashtray, a scattering of cigar-butts barely covering its dish. It must serve some kind of function as ballast. Apart from a faded slogan advertising army-ration beer, it is unremarkable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn screw", "response": "You give the selection screw a half-turn. The essence of 9-dimensionality rises into the firing chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec ashtray", "response": "Fwoosh.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Ashtray", "response": "A frankly monumental ashtray, a scattering of cigar-butts barely covering its dish. It must serve some kind of function as ballast.\nIt apppears to exist simultaeneously in nine dimensions at once. Your brain hurts just thinking about it.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "No battle-platform worthy of the name lacks an officer's bar. The Spirit was intended to be the crowning glory of the superplatform class, outdoing the British Lady Spankingleigh and even the Tibetan Vengeful Yak. Military analysts may quibble over their relative superiority in battle, but when it comes to the bar, they'll pick the Spirit every time. Gangways lead east and west.\nAn immense nondescript ashtray dominates the room's centre. Formerly there was an ornamental fountain, but it kept getting choked with cigar butts.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Thanks to automation, the Spirit of Speed-IF may be fully controlled in the fiercest of conflicts by a single trained pilot, leaving the remaining one hundred and seventy-two flight officers to observe the battle from the comfort of the Observation Lounge Bar (west).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Turn screw", "response": "You give the selection screw a half-turn. The essence of T'ang rises into the firing chamber.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec crystal", "response": "You hesitate. The wrong essence could have untold consequences upon the airship's performance; it would be wise to consider your choice carefully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec crystal", "response": "Fwoosh.\n\nThe engines roar in overpowered fury around you. You hate to betray a client, but the Turks were thrice-darned fools to trust anyone with this much hardware.\n\nRacing to the bridge, you grasp the controls, feeling the malicious throb of power course up your arms. Steering a course for the Rift Valley, you annihilate half the local warlords and bully the rest into a confederacy. By this time, the Great Powers are taking notice, but you're ready for the bastards. You have the single most powerful military engine on the planet. Let \"em come.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dis myself", "response": "Steady on, old gel! However many poor attributes you may have accumulated, it can't be worse than trusting yourself to that half-baked contraption!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec crystal", "response": "Fwoosh.\n\nHonestly, however well the Turks pay you, they're a power on the decline and every bugger knows it. Stick with them and you'll wake up one morning with your knickers on fire and a mortar shell between your teeth. Therefore, before you set out on this mission you exchanged words with certain persons unnamed. Cash may have changed hands.\n\nAt first you make for the Euphrates airbase, but then you cut down to the Persian Gulf and link up with the Autumn Scholar battlegroup. The Sultan may grind his teeth, but there's nothing he can do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Ashtray", "response": "A frankly monumental ashtray, a scattering of cigar-butts barely covering its dish. It must serve some kind of function as ballast. Hideous carvings are brutally gouged into its surface, and you swear you can hear it breathing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake the Ashtray", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the Ashtray", "response": "That's hardly portable.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "Good lord, standards in the Foreign Legion have finally outdone the rumours. No gate guard, no military police, that distinctive smell from the latrines that invariably means every man jack of em's lousy with the clap.\nA rope-ladder leads upwards, into the underbelly of the great dirigible.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The Ergomatic Wing crash-landed (it knows no other variety) amid a clump of wilted-looking thornbushes and unaccomodating rocks. Sun-bleached grass extends in every direction, but the southern prospect is improved by Fort Yaourt-Framboise. And floating above it, the sublime bulges of the Spirit, cruelly tethered by French guile.\n\nA nondescript goat crops the grass nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec goat", "response": "Feeling a little sorry for the poor characterless animal, you shoulder the Discombobulator and let a shot fly.\n\nThere is a dull *pung*, a pause, and then the goat explodes. Harhar, that'll teach the blighter some manners.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "The Ergomatic Wing crash-landed (it knows no other variety) amid a clump of wilted-looking thornbushes and unaccomodating rocks. Sun-bleached grass extends in every direction, but the southern prospect is improved by Fort Yaourt-Framboise. And floating above it, the sublime bulges of the Spirit, cruelly tethered by French guile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec goat", "response": "Feeling a little sorry for the poor characterless animal, you shoulder the Discombobulator and let a shot fly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the goat", "response": "A feral Eritrean scrub-goat, if you are any judge, and six years of handing out blue ribbons at the All-Sussex Caprine Fanciers Exposition has to count for something. It is lifting one hind leg and one rear leg in a dramatic stance, as if posing for a bronze casting.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Amelia \"Barkers\" Briscott, freebooter, terror of the Eastern Ghats and the only Englishwoman ever to sneak onto the Hajj and the Balliol rugger squad in the same false beard. For the last few years you've been drawing pay from the Ottomans, who are a queer lot but run a topper seraglio.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yes", "response": "The Spirit of Speed-IF is universally regarded as the most formidable dirigible battle platform in East Africa, if not the world; its india-rubber gussets alone cost half the annual revenues of the Ottoman Empire. Its recent loss to the French, therefore, can scarcely be countenanced.\n\nHeadquarters had little option; the Escadrille Patissiers Volants will rendez-vous by dawn, at which point the Spirit will be irrevocably lost. They didn't like it, but they had little choice but to send you in.\n\nA Speed-IF by Sam Kabo Ashwell\n\nType ABOUT for SpeedIF details.\n\nThe Ergomatic Wing crash-landed (it knows no other variety) amid a clump of wilted-looking thornbushes and unaccomodating rocks. Sun-bleached grass extends in every direction, but the southern prospect is improved by Fort Yaourt-Framboise. And floating above it, the sublime bulges of the Spirit, cruelly tethered by French guile.\n\nA fearsome goat crops the grass nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "As you start towards the fort, you catch the goat's attention. It fixes you with an eye of pure malice, lowers its horns, and scrapes one fore-hoof on the ground. You back away hastily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dis goat", "response": "You carefully size up the savage brute, brush four or five clockwork range-finders and optical scopes out of your line of sight, and pop the bugger square between the eyes. It bleats plaintively, and there is a satisfying clunk from the Discombobulator's fluid reservoirs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gun", "response": "In appearance, the Hennings-Jobson Sophical Discombobulator resembles an elaborately decorated carbine, bristling with antennae, hydraulic tubing, miniature gyroscopes and similar improbable attachments. You have as yet been instructed in the use of only three controls: the trigger that performs discombobulation, its recombobulating partner, and the screw that, tightened appropriately, primes the recombobulation barrel with stored essences.\nThe 9-dimensional essential fluid is currently chambered.\n\n(You may discombobulate objects with the command DISCOMBOBULATE, abbreviated to DIS, and recombobulate them again with RECOMBOBUBLATE or REC.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec waiter", "response": "Fwoosh.\n\nWith a bestial howl, the waiter springs upon you and rips off your limbs like so many soiled serviettes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec waiter", "response": "Fwoosh.\n\nHis French snobbery displaced by the traditional Chinese values of obsequiousness, loyalty and humble service, the waiter scampers from the room, and (mere moments later) returns bearing a delicious creme brulee. This accomplished, he retreats, bowing deeply every five steps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the creme", "response": "Delicious wobbly stuff topped off by a sheet of caramelised sugar.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the creme", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gun", "response": "In appearance, the Hennings-Jobson Sophical Discombobulator resembles an elaborately decorated carbine, bristling with antennae, hydraulic tubing, miniature gyroscopes and similar improbable attachments. You have as yet been instructed in the use of only three controls: the trigger that performs discombobulation, its recombobulating partner, and the screw that, tightened appropriately, primes the recombobulation barrel with stored essences.\nThe fearsome essential fluid is currently chambered.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec brulee", "response": "It appears that the creme brulee already has a vital essence, and it would be foolhardy to try and intermix them outside the laboratory. You forbear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the brulee", "response": "You chow down on the 9-dimensional creme brulee. Scronch scronch scronch flickerflickerflicker OH MY GOD IT'S FULL OF SUGAR", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the brulee", "response": "You wolf down the creme brulee. It tastes of spotted dick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the brulee", "response": "As you raise the first bite of creme brulee to your lips, the gooey slime peels back and you realise there is an eye looking at you.\n\nYou have no time to scream before it leaps down your throat, burrows its tendrils into the walls of your oesophagus, and seals off your lungs. Your last words are \"thptht glurk\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec crystal", "response": "Fwoosh.\n\nYour work complete, you amble back to the Lounge Bar, put your feet up, and order a triple gin and tonic. The phlogiston turbines buzz as the Spirit, seemingly of its own accord, sets a course for Scapa Flow, taking a brief detour to dump its sewage tanks over Montmartre.\n\nIt's all very well doing a turn or two with the dagoes, but at the end of the day, what a gel really wants is Queen, country and a good fair scrap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Rec crystal", "response": "It appears that Aitchgeewellsium Crystal already has a vital essence, and it would be foolhardy to try and intermix them outside the laboratory. You forbear.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dis crystal", "response": "Clenching your teeth, you level the Discombobulator at the crystal, mutter a brief prayer to nobody in particular, and fire.\nFrom every direction, unseen machines sigh, rumble and wheeze to a standstill. A chilling silence, broken only by the flap of wind against the envelope.", "endoftext": true } ]

[]

[ "24 Hours of Inform 2004", "collaboration", "cover art", "Demon", "France", "Germany", "theatre", "transformation", "wizard" ]

[ 0, 2, 3, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Darkness; below, percussion throbs softly. You shift from foot to foot, conscious of too much open space around you.\n\nAhead and on either side, the voice of the chorus rises; as they speak, the lights slowly go up.\n\nCHORUS:\nNow does the hour grow close; where feet lack time,\nAnd Spaniards rage before the Cockrel's gate,\nThe condemned sinner, soul turned sick of vice,\nShall craft before your eyes most unclean magics,\nOpen him a gate to Hell's black womb,\nRelease demons, and bid them convey\nOur heroes to fair France; there to signal\nEmbattl'd men to a final desperate measure.\nThe final act is begun; the play is in your hands.\n\nor, A Poisoned Zenith\nA play by Alphonse de l'Entaille\nFor 24 Hours of Inform '04\nCopyright (c) 2004, 2005\n\nFor acknowledgments, hints, and miscellanea, type \"about\"\n\nThe author can be contacted at alphonse.de.l.entaille@gmail.com\n\nStage (A German Forest)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.\n\n[ To go backstage, type 'backstage' or simply 'bs' ]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are currently out of character.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the eagle", "response": "The backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.\n\nCHORUS:\nThe hour draws close when France shall rise or fall;\nThe board writhes to last moves; alone, each piece is lost.\nEach has emerged, as we've shown by our Art;\nOur three are gathered: each must fill their part.\n\nHigh above a forested peak, a proud double-headed eagle is carrying off its natural prey, the schnitzel. Such unspeakable grandeur, such natural beauty, such cack-handed brushwork.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bs", "response": "A room of indefinite size, hemmed in with high curtains, hanging ropes, and cluttered with wardrobes and make-up tables. Various props lie scattered about the room. Through the curtains, an entrance leads onstage.\n\nOn one wall, someone has hung a flyer.\n\n[ To go back onstage, type 'onstage' or simply 'os' ]\n\nYou can see a cloth, a petticoat, a stick and a board here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine flyer", "response": "A flyer is plastered across one wall:\n\n\n\n\n\n*** WITHIN A WREATH OF DEWDROPS ***\n\n* JOHN ACTOR as MAURICE * EVA ZAHA as ELISE *\n\n* and DUSTIN Q. CELEBRITY as THE WIZARD MCFAUD *\n\n\n\nAt the center of the advertisement is a dramatic painting of a rapier-waving hero and a heaving-bodiced heroine, with a city on fire behind them. It's all rather exciting, really.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the board", "response": "A wooden board, roughly square and about two and a half feet to a side. A metal handle is affixed to the centre. It's been coated in dark varnish to make it look a bit less like balsawood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all", "response": "cloth: Taken.\npetticoat: Taken.\nstick: Taken.\nboard: Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cloth", "response": "It's a rectangle of cloth, so worn-out from being dyed, bleached and redyed that you are no longer able to make out what its colour is. Over the years it has seen service as a loin cloth, a pirate's sail, a shroud, the ghost of Hamlet's father, and as a poorly-rendered special effect of falling leaves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine script", "response": "The chorus are an omniscient lot who remain out of sight but are always there to provide foreshadowing of things to come. Were it not for them, you would most certainly have forgotten to raise your tunic at the appropriate moment in The Stride of Hermes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Os", "response": "Stage (A German Forest)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear cloth", "response": "Costume changes onstage? This is experimental theatre, but there are limits. It would perhaps be better to do that sort of thing backstage, so as not to break the illusion.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bs", "response": "A room of indefinite size, hemmed in with high curtains, hanging ropes, and cluttered with wardrobes and make-up tables. Various props lie scattered about the room. Through the curtains, an entrance leads onstage.\n\nOn one wall, someone has hung a flyer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear cloth", "response": "You swirl the cloth around your shoulders like a cloak, tilt your chin upwards at an arrogant angle, and take a few strutting steps. After a brief moment of concentration, you feel properly in character.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "[ To go back onstage, type 'onstage' or simply 'os' ]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na shield\na sword\na petticoat\na cloak (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are playing the part of Captain Maurice Orignaux, honourable dandy of the Paris City Guard. Equally capable of composing timeless sonnets on the spur of the moment or slitting a Tartar's nose in a tavern brawl, Maurice is generally considered to be Entaille's paradigmatic hero. Some critics have defined this paradigm as 'a two-dimensional pugilist in tight hose' but you have always considered Maurice a character of many contradictions and shades of subtlety, brought out most clearly in his banter with Carelio and Longuin in the famous oyster-eating scene.\n\nYou are playing the part of Captain Maurice Orignaux, honourable dandy of the Paris City Guard. Equally capable of composing timeless sonnets on the spur of the moment or slitting a Tartar's nose in a tavern brawl, Maurice is generally considered to be Entaille's paradigmatic hero. Some critics have defined this paradigm as 'a two-dimensional pugilist in tight hose' but you have always considered Maurice a character of many contradictions and shades of subtlety, brought out most clearly in his banter with Carelio and Longuin in the famous oyster-eating scene.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chorus", "response": "The chorus are an omniscient lot who remain out of sight but are always there to provide foreshadowing of things to come. Were it not for them, you would most certainly have forgotten to raise your tunic at the appropriate moment in The Stride of Hermes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine audience", "response": "There may well be an audience out there, but you can't see them for the glare of the lights. Best to just assume that they're there, and that somewhere in their midst is a theatre critic who is watching you with a discerning eye.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the chorus", "response": "The chorus is tied to the script, but repeats its lines again, for your benefit:\n\nCHORUS:\nThe hour draws close when France shall rise or fall;\nThe board writhes to last moves; alone, each piece is lost.\nEach has emerged, as we've shown by our Art;\nOur three are gathered: each must fill their part.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bs", "response": "A room of indefinite size, hemmed in with high curtains, hanging ropes, and cluttered with wardrobes and make-up tables. Various props lie scattered about the room. Through the curtains, an entrance leads onstage.\n\nOn one wall, someone has hung a flyer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the petticoat", "response": "After a moment or two of hopping about, you work your way into the petticoat. Hunching your shoulders over, clawing your fingers and adopting a lecherous squint, you assume a new role.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are playing the part of Herr Dr. Lysander Herculaneum Prufrock Gramercy McFaud, German theological scholar and on first-names terms with the Prince of Darkness. Originally your scheme was to ensnare Elise, but the purity of her humble beauty laid a seed of doubt in your black heart that was brilliantly explored in a long and profound soliloquy at the close of Act IV. When Maurice appeared to rescue her, you could no longer stomach the vileness of your existence and, though doomed to Hell yourself, vowed to give aid to the heroes in an even longer and more profound soliloquy in the middle of Act V.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Your big song number, Oh, I Am So Atrocious was three scenes ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na board\na staff\na petticoat (being worn)\na cloak (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the staff", "response": "You cut this staff from a blasted oak in a miserable October rainstorm, and in a dark hour engraved deep symbols on its surface with a flint knife to transform it into a Beacon of the Nether Gate, an abomination before God whose very touch shrivels the humours. It also has a minor hex on it that facilitates cheating at polo.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave staff", "response": "You feel a bit foolish waving the staff.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Act", "response": "You hobble about, leering, wringing your hands and cackling softly in appallingly bad Latin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the next line", "response": "What do you want to read in?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Stage (A German Forest)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave board", "response": "You feel a bit foolish waving the board.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na board\na staff\na petticoat (being worn)\na cloak (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bs", "response": "A room of indefinite size, hemmed in with high curtains, hanging ropes, and cluttered with wardrobes and make-up tables. Various props lie scattered about the room. Through the curtains, an entrance leads onstage.\n\nOn one wall, someone has hung a flyer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the cloak", "response": "You unfurl the cloth from your shoulders. Concentrating, you stick your chest out, stand contrapposto and bat your eyelashes. You're now in character.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are playing the part of Elise, a beautiful and chaste garlic-farmer's daughter and the darling of the Paris garrison. Scholars generally consider that the real-life Elise was a toothless Gascon whore whose only significant achievement was inaccurately throwing a rotten aubergine at Charles the Affable, but de l'Entaille was much-given to careless research and intentional romanticising.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na board\na stick\na petticoat (being worn)\na cloth", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Os", "response": "Stage (A German Forest)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Elise isn't given any songs in the original text, although there was a fashion in the eighteenth century to write in lengthy and hideous warblings for her, with titles like The Mistle-Thrush Sings In My Heart and Sweetest Fondness. Thankfully, these died out with the appearance of the theatre critic.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Act", "response": "In order to convey your poetic pulchritude to the audience, you mime a series of gracefully girlish actions: Lost In Innocent Pensiveness, Delighted by a Pretty Bird, and Oh My, Sir, But I Couldn't. None of these do a great deal to advance the plot, but you do succeed in making yourself feel like a complete wet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the chorus", "response": "The chorus is tied to the script, but repeats its lines again, for your benefit:\n\nCHORUS:\nThe hour draws close when France shall rise or fall;\nThe board writhes to last moves; alone, each piece is lost.\nEach has emerged, as we've shown by our Art;\nOur three are gathered: each must fill their part.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break board", "response": "Easy as it would be to smash, it's necessary for the play.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop it", "response": "You place the board upon the floor, handle-side up... it looks suspiciously like a trapdoor!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the trapdoor", "response": "You pull open the trapdoor. Beneath, you can make out nothing but darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Stage", "response": "(the floor)\nThe floor is a featureless expanse facing out into darkness.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the chorus about the trapdoor", "response": "The chorus is tied to the script, but repeats its lines again, for your benefit:\n\nCHORUS:\nThe hour draws close when France shall rise or fall;\nThe board writhes to last moves; alone, each piece is lost.\nEach has emerged, as we've shown by our Art;\nOur three are gathered: each must fill their part.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "As you step through the trapdoor, you sense movement in the inky black around you; you are descending into darkness, with nothing underfoot, but it feels as if wires are holding you up.\n\nYou are surrounded by darkness; nothing underfoot and a tiny light far overhead. Something allows you to dangle in space; whenever you move, you feel slight upwards pressure on your joints, and feel yourself sway a little.\n\nA few feet from you, a wooden demon is hanging limply from his wires.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the demon", "response": "At the very sight of the demon's hideous features, you are overcome by the frailties of your sex and execute a commendable swoon. However, you then take in a detail which gives you pause: the poor ickle thing has a sandbag tied to its ankle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na stick\na petticoat (being worn)\na cloth", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the stick", "response": "A light but sturdy stick, about a metre and a half long.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the sandbag", "response": "The sandbag is tethered securely to the demon's ankle, just out of reach. You kick and swipe feebly, but to no avail.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the coat", "response": "It's a little difficult to attempt anything as involved as that when you're hanging here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bs", "response": "You attempt to go in another direction, but since you don't have any purchase on anything, this proves impractical. Looks like your best bet is to go up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bs", "response": "You flail ineffectually at thin air. Although this does little, an upward force at the top of your head seems to pull you upwards, back toward the light.\n\nStage (A German Forest)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.\n\nYou can see a trapdoor here.\n\nA room of indefinite size, hemmed in with high curtains, hanging ropes, and cluttered with wardrobes and make-up tables. Various props lie scattered about the room. Through the curtains, an entrance leads onstage.\n\nOn one wall, someone has hung a flyer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the coat", "response": "You step out of the petticoat, and out of role.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wear cloth", "response": "You swirl the cloth around your shoulders like a cloak, tilt your chin upwards at an arrogant angle, and take a few strutting steps. After a brief moment of concentration, you feel properly in character.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Stage (A German Forest)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.\n\nYou can see a trapdoor here.\nYou open the trapdoor, revealing a dark hole that beckons to you in an unpleasant manner. As you step cautiously through the trapdoor, you sense movement in the inky black around you; you are descending into darkness, with nothing underfoot, but it feels as if wires are holding you up.\n\nYou are surrounded by darkness; nothing underfoot and a tiny light far overhead. Something allows you to dangle in space; whenever you move, you feel slight upwards pressure on your joints, and feel yourself sway a little.\n\nA few feet from you, a wooden demon is hanging limply from his wires.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut it", "response": "With one swing of your blade, the rope is cut and the sandbag drops away into empty darkness. The demon creakily shakes its leg.\n\nMAURICE:\nNow I have honour, and thee, releas't,\nPut up thy sword, most naughty beast!\n\nThe demon swivels to face you, as if to respond; its lower jaw clatters up and down. The only sound is of clacking wood and creaking wires. Then it reaches above its head, clumsily selects a particular wire, and yanks forcefully on it. You immediately find yourself being hauled upwards...\n\nStage (A German Forest)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.\n\nYou can see a trapdoor here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Act", "response": "You strut up and down the stage, grinning roguishly, and wondering how long you can keep this up.\n\nCHORUS:\nThe noxious Teuton, by each saint accursed,\nPrepareth now dark devilments; from Dis' black gut\nHe means to call forth monsters. Dare his hand\nUnbar the gate that blessed hands did seal?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bs", "response": "A room of indefinite size, hemmed in with high curtains, hanging ropes, and cluttered with wardrobes and make-up tables. Various props lie scattered about the room. Through the curtains, an entrance leads onstage.\n\nOn one wall, someone has hung a flyer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Os", "response": "Stage (A German Forest)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features an unconvincing painting of pine-covered mountains and a dark, ominous sky in which a double-headed eagle is carrying off a schnitzel.\n\nYou can see a trapdoor here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Act", "response": "You hobble about, leering, wringing your hands and cackling softly in appallingly bad Latin.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "A thunder-machine roars offstage and the lights redden and dim. With a burst of dry ice, a magnificent demon erupts from the trapdoor! You clear your throat: the audience are due for some more of Entaille's third-rate blank verse.\n\nBIKHRIR:\nWhy summons't thou me to this most bleak land,\nWhere men are virtuous and sausages plentiful?\n\nMCFAUD:\nDid I not with thy master make of it a compact,\nBinding your service to my hand's desire,\nAnd can I not discard this if I will?\n\nBIKHRIR:\nNo;\nIt is signed, Lysander,\nIn the gore of your damned carcass.\n\nMCFAUD:\nThen let my doom provide another's hope,\nAnd at once to Paris these my friends convey.\n\nBikrir, grumbling loudly, stomps to the backdrop and, making a magic pass, extracts a paint-bucket and brush. In a few moments, he has coated the entire surface in a completely different talentless daub, and springs back down the trapdoor.\n\nA second burst of dry ice signals his disappearance (and, incidentally, that of the trapdoor also).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Stage (The Walls of Paris)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features a hastily-rendered painting of a medieval town, complete with the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Elysses, a vineyard and Gerard Depardieu as an onion-selling cyclist. In the distance, the flags of the invading Spanish wave menacingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the petticoat", "response": "Stepping out of the petticoat, you tilt your chin upwards at an arrogant angle and take a few strutting steps. After a brief moment of concentration, you feel properly in character.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the chorus", "response": "The chorus is tied to the script, but repeats its lines again, for your benefit:\n\nCHORUS:\nThe noxious Teuton, by each saint accursed,\nPrepareth now dark devilments; from Dis' black gut\nHe means to call forth monsters. Dare his hand\nUnbar the gate that blessed hands did seal?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na sword\na petticoat\na cloak (being worn)", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "I don't see a trapdoor around here. Do you?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "[ To go backstage, type 'backstage' or simply 'bs' ]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the cloak", "response": "You unfurl the cloth from your shoulders. Concentrating, you stick your chest out, stand contrapposto and bat your eyelashes. You're now in character.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "What? You're a refined and delicate flower, not some thigh-flashing dancehall slut!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen to the chorus", "response": "The chorus is tied to the script, but repeats its lines again, for your benefit:\n\nCHORUS:\nThe noxious Teuton, by each saint accursed,\nPrepareth now dark devilments; from Dis' black gut\nHe means to call forth monsters. Dare his hand\nUnbar the gate that blessed hands did seal?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave", "response": "You wave, feeling a bit foolish.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave stick", "response": "You feel a bit foolish waving the stick.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Os", "response": "But you're already onstage. Quick! Do something entertaining!\n[ To go backstage, type 'backstage' or simply 'bs' ]", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "What? You're a refined and delicate flower, not some thigh-flashing dancehall slut!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Act", "response": "In order to convey your poetic pulchritude to the audience, you mime a series of gracefully girlish actions: Lost In Innocent Pensiveness, Delighted by a Pretty Bird, and Oh My, Sir, But I Couldn't. None of these do a great deal to advance the plot, but you do succeed in making yourself feel like a complete wet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Bs", "response": "A room of indefinite size, hemmed in with high curtains, hanging ropes, and cluttered with wardrobes and make-up tables. Various props lie scattered about the room. Through the curtains, an entrance leads onstage.\n\nOn one wall, someone has hung a flyer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You beat out an impromptu tap-dance to buy time, but audible yawns from the darkness cause you to reconsider.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "Your big song number, And I Waggled All Their Britches, was an act and a half ago.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the backdrop", "response": "The backdrop features a hastily-rendered painting of a medieval town, complete with the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Elysses, a vineyard and Gerard Depardieu as an onion-selling cyclist. In the distance, the flags of the invading Spanish wave menacingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the flags", "response": "The malicious and wily Spanish army lurks on the horizon, flags billowing in the breeze, preparing to strike. Their victory would be an unspeakable human tragedy for the people of France, who would then be ruled by an autocratic self-serving hereditary tyrant, differing from the current autocratic self-serving hereditary tyrant in that he would be a dirty Spaniard.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cyclist", "response": "The demon's unerring brush has depicted M. Depardieu atop a shaky bicycle, a look of exaggerated astonishment and panic on his face as he rescues onions from the advancing Spanish hordes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the vineyard", "response": "Thick-limbed peasants, relaxing beneath sun-kissed grape trellises, wave wine glasses about in a drunken fashion. What they are doing in central Paris is anybody's guess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You rescue the onion", "response": "It is indeed unfortunate, but Gerard is only part of the backdrop. Mere scenery.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Tower", "response": "Characteristic landmarks of the medieval Paris skyline. Or at least, so the set designer seemed to believe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Attack spaniard", "response": "You raise your sword, and with a wild whoop, charge the Spanish lines. You instantly think better of it when you nail your head on the backdrop. You'll certainly be feeling that tomorrow.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the cloak", "response": "You unfurl the cloth from your shoulders, and let yourself relax.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You tie the cloth to stick", "response": "You carefully knot the corners of the cloth around the stick. It now makes a passable flag.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear petticoat", "response": "After a moment or two of hopping about, you work your way into the petticoat. Concentrating, you stick your chest out, stand contrapposto and bat your eyelashes. You're now in character.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Os", "response": "Stage (The Walls of Paris)\nYou are onstage, a wide expanse of blank floor facing onto darkness. Nestled behind a curtain's edge is the exit leading offstage.\n\nThe backdrop features a hastily-rendered painting of a medieval town, complete with the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Elysses, a vineyard and Gerard Depardieu as an onion-selling cyclist. In the distance, the flags of the invading Spanish wave menacingly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wave flag", "response": "Assuming a dynamic stance, feet wide and shoulders square, you raise the flag above your head (music swells in the orchestra pit) and begin to sweep it about vigorously. A murmur slowly rises from the chorus, and then the stage is swamped with armoured extras and dodgy swordplay.\n\nThe choreography has you standing around waving the flag in the middle of this for the better part of four minutes. Eventually, arms aching and throat sore, you stagger offstage as the narrator delivers the closing speech.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Children's", "Fantasy" ]

[ "anthology", "collaboration", "cover art", "many authors", "parody", "walkthrough" ]

[ 1, 5, 12, 0, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Ahhhh! Another can of refreshing Coca-Cola! You sigh in contentment as you partake of the sweet carbonated beverage, so recently purchased. But what's this? The dispenser light is still on! You can select another! You pause, though. The labels seem to be different than they were before,...\n\nCoke Is It!\nAn Interactive Commercial\n\nType ABOUT for more information.\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You can't bring yourself to leave the Coke Machine. At least, not while there are free buttons left to push.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Machine", "response": "This Coke machine has served you well. It is always full, always has exact change, always operates smoothly, and always keeps its assortment of Coca-Cola products chilled at exactly the right temperature. Right now, though, the buttons don't seem to have the same labels they used to. The 'Select!' light is still on, meaning you can push the following buttons:\n\n**Curses**\n**Adventure**\n**Planetfall**\n**Hitchhiker**\n**Grip**\n**A Bear's Night Out**", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pick up Machine", "response": "That's hardly portable. Unlike Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "Six Million a Day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink", "response": "What do you want to drink?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pepsi", "response": "You can't see any such thing. Maybe you meant to refer to your Coke?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na can of Coca-Cola", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink coke", "response": "Which do you mean, the Coke machine or the can of Coca-Cola?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink can othe Coca-Cola", "response": "Aaaaah! What joy! What bliss! What unbearable ecstacy of delight!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Press adventure", "response": "Your surroundings boil away like fizzing soda, and you find yourself in a completely new place!\n\nClassic Coca-Cola presents: CLASSIC ADVENTURE\n\nReconstructed in three steps by:\nDonald Ekman, David M. Baggett (1993) and Graham Nelson (1994)\n\nYou are standing at the end of a road before a small brick building. Coca-Cola...Along The Highway To Anywhere, Around The Corner From Everywhere, Coca-Cola is The Best Friend Thirst Ever Had. A small stream flows out of the building and down a gully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are inside a building, a well house for a large spring. Be Really Refreshed: Drink Coca-Cola.\n\nThere are some keys on the ground here.\n\nThere is tasty food here.\n\nThere is a shiny brass lamp nearby.\n\nThere is an empty green glass bottle here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "set of keys: Taken. (Things go better with Coke.)\ntasty food: Taken. (Things go better with Coke.)\nbrass lantern: Taken. (Things go better with Coke.)\ngreen glass bottle: Taken. (Things go better with Coke.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "The green glass bottle is empty.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "You are standing at the end of a road before a small brick building. Coca-Cola...Along The Highway To Anywhere, Around The Corner From Everywhere, Coca-Cola is The Best Friend Thirst Ever Had. A small stream flows out of the building and down a gully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You are inside a building, a well house for a large spring. Be Really Refreshed: Drink Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink stream", "response": "You have taken a drink from the stream. The water tastes strongly of minerals, but is not unpleasant. It is extremely cold, like Coca-Cola: Ice-Cold Sunshine.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "The stream flows out through a pair of 1 foot diameter sewer pipes. The only exit is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You have walked up a hill, still in the forest. The road slopes back down the other side of the hill. There is a building in the distance. Where There's Coke, There's Hospitality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na green glass bottle\na brass lantern\nsome tasty food\na set of keys", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine food", "response": "Sure looks yummy! Remember: Things Go Better With Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "In the green glass bottle is some bottled water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lantern", "response": "Which do you mean, the stream or the bottled water?\n\nIt is a shiny brass lamp. It is not currently lit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the bottled water", "response": "You have taken a drink from the stream. The water tastes strongly of minerals, but is not unpleasant. It is extremely cold, like Coca-Cola: Ice-Cold Sunshine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are in open forest near both a valley and a road. Coca-Cola Revives And Sustains.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You are in a valley in the forest beside a stream tumbling along a rocky bed. Coke, Delicious And Refreshing, is collected in a bubbling, ice-cold pool in the streambed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pool", "response": "Delicious and refreshing, Coke Is It!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "At your feet all the water of the stream splashes into a 2-inch slit in the rock. Downstream the streambed is bare rock. Have A Coke And A Smile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the slit", "response": "It's just a 2-inch slit in the rock, through which the stream is flowing. Coca-Cola: The Great National Temperance Drink.\n\nOn close examination, you see a thin scroll tucked into the slit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the scroll", "response": "You carefully pluck out the scroll, a list of slogans.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the scroll", "response": "This is a list of slogans for Coca-Cola. It reads:\n\n1905 Coca-Cola Revives And Sustains\n1906 The Great National Temperance Drink\n1917 Three Million A Day\n1922 Thirst Knows No Season\n1925 Six Million A Day\n1927 Around The Corner From Everywhere\n1929 The Pause That Refreshes\n1932 Ice-Cold Sunshine\n1938 The Best Friend Thirst Ever Had\n1939 Coca-Cola Goes Along\n1942 Wherever You Are, Whatever You Do, Wherever You May Be, When You Think Of Refreshment, Think Of Ice-Cold Coca-Cola\n1942 The Only Thing Like Coca-Cola Is Coca-Cola Itself. It's The Real Thing.\n1948 Where There's Coke, There's Hospitality\n1949 Coca-Cola...Along The Highway To Anywhere\n1952 What You Want Is A Coke\n1956 Coca-Cola...Making Good Things Taste Better\n1957 Sign Of Good Taste\n1958 The Cold, Crisp Taste Of Coke\n1959 Be Really Refreshed\n1963 Things Go Better With Coke\n1970 It's The Real Thing\n1971 I'd Like To Buy The World A Coke\n1975 Look Up America\n1976 Coke Adds Life\n1979 Have A Coke And A Smile\n1982 Coke Is It!\n1985 We've Got A Taste For You, America's Real Choice\n1986 Catch The Wave, Red White & You\n1989 Can't Beat The Feeling\n1990 Can't Beat The Real Thing\n1993 Always Coca-Cola", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You don't fit through a two-inch slit! What You Want is a Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Xyzzy", "response": "Six Million a Day.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are in a 20-foot depression floored with bare dirt. Set into the dirt is a strong steel grate mounted in concrete. A dry streambed leads into the depression.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the grate", "response": "It seems to be locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You unlock it with the keys", "response": "You unlock the steel grate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock grate", "response": "What do you want to unlock the steel grate with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the grate", "response": "You open the steel grate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the grate", "response": "It just looks like an ordinary grate mounted in concrete.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lamp", "response": "You switch the brass lantern on.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Your lamp is getting dim. It's not safe to explore the caves without a brightly burning lamp.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lamp", "response": "It is a shiny brass lamp, glowing dimly.\n\nYour lamp is getting dim. Coke Adds Life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na list of slogans\na green glass bottle\na brass lantern (providing light)\nsome tasty food\na set of keys", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "At your feet all the water of the stream splashes into a 2-inch slit in the rock. Downstream the streambed is bare rock. Have A Coke And A Smile.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You are in a valley in the forest beside a stream tumbling along a rocky bed. Coke, Delicious And Refreshing, is collected in a bubbling, ice-cold pool in the streambed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the lamp", "response": "You switch the brass lantern off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Empty bottle", "response": "The bottle is already empty!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the lamp", "response": "Say, that Coke really put the juice back into this thing! The Only Thing Like Coca-Cola Is Coca-Cola Itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You are in a 20-foot depression floored with bare dirt. Set into the dirt is a strong steel grate mounted in concrete. A dry streambed leads into the depression.\n\nThe grate stands open. Where There's Coke, There's Hospitality.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light lamp", "response": "You switch the brass lantern on.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "*** You Can't Beat The Real Thing ***\n\nThis demo is now over, but there's Always Coca-Cola!\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Machine", "response": "This Coke machine has served you well. It is always full, always has exact change, always operates smoothly, and always keeps its assortment of Coca-Cola products chilled at exactly the right temperature. Right now, though, the buttons don't seem to have the same labels they used to. The 'Select!' light is still on, meaning you can push the following buttons:\n\n**Curses**\n**Adventure** <Empty>\n**Planetfall**\n**Hitchhiker**\n**Grip**\n**A Bear's Night Out**", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull Machine", "response": "It is fixed in place. Unlike your refreshing Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the curses", "response": "Your surroundings melt away, and you find yourself in a completely new place!\n\nThis is a vast underground station in great rectangular caverns, deep beneath the streets. You are outside the ticket gates, near a flight of steps back up to the city, and since you haven't a ticket you're likely to stay that way.\n\nBehind a kiosk, a surly-looking man is selling guide books and maps.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "As good-looking as ever.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na crumpled piece of paper\na can of Coca-Cola", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine paper", "response": "Things to do:\n\n1. Find map.\n2. Phone airport to check parking.\n3. Health forms...\n\nand so on. Let's face it, 1. is more enticing than the rest put together.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the man", "response": "His jumper is unstriped, and there are no onions around his neck. Nonetheless he has a rather Gallic, disgruntled look to him. Perhaps he's a former Socialist cabinet minister.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Coke", "response": "Truly, all of your desires can be assuaged with the refreshing goodness inside this can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the man about the map", "response": "\"Non.\" And he folds his arms defiantly. Perhaps he has no such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Coke to the man", "response": "The man snatches the Coke from you, sneers, and drains it in one huge, unhurried swallow.\n\nHe glares at you for a moment, and then a change ripples across his features. \"Merci,\" he croaks in a voice unaccustomed to politeness. He shudders, and then shakes himself like a dog exiting water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Coke to the man", "response": "He stares down at his jumper in disbelief, and rips it off, revealing a New York Giants T-shirt underneath. He shakes his head, clears his throat, and tries again.\n\n\"Thanks, buddy!\" he exclaims, in what is manifestly a New Jersey, rather than a French, accent. \"This is in-freakin'-credible! You've cured me of being a freakin' Frog! Holy freak! You freakin' RULE!\"\n\n\"Oh, you wanted the freakin' map?\"\n\nHe shrugs and hands you the map of Paris. You feel a shiver ripple through the multiverse as the ancestral Curse of the Meldrews is lifted.\n\n\"I dunno why the freak you'd wanna go there, though. It's all covered in freakin' dog crap, and worse than that, it's full of freakin' Frogs! No, you need someplace better than that.\"\n\nHe scratches his head, encountering his beret, which he flings into the darkness.\n\n\"I know!\" he shouts. \"At-freakin'-lanta! Birthplace of Coca-Cola! Only the greatest freakin' drink in the history of the freakin' world! Yeah! C'mon! I got a cousin Vinnie who knows a guy who knows a guy who can get you a sweet freakin' deal on the trip!\"\n\nArm in arm, the two of you leave the Underground behind. After a fantastic vacation in Atlanta, the highlight of which is (of course) the \"World of Coke\" exhibit, you somehow find yourself...\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.\n\nYou can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fuck", "response": "How can you be so upset when you have a Coke?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Darn", "response": "You sound like someone who drinks Pepsi.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill yourself", "response": "Violence doesn't solve anything. But Coke does!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Machine", "response": "You can't see any such thing. Maybe you meant to refer to your Coke?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Coke to the man", "response": "The man snatches the Coke from you, sneers, and drains it in one huge, unhurried swallow.\n\nHe glares at you for a moment, and then a change ripples across his features. \"Merci,\" he croaks in a voice unaccustomed to politeness. He shudders, and then shakes himself like a dog exiting water.\n\nHe stares down at his jumper in disbelief, and rips it off, revealing a New York Giants T-shirt underneath. He shakes his head, clears his throat, and tries again.\n\n\"Thanks, buddy!\" he exclaims, in what is manifestly a New Jersey, rather than a French, accent. \"This is in-freakin'-credible! You've cured me of being a freakin' Frog! Holy freak! You freakin' RULE!\"\n\n\"Oh, you wanted the freakin' map?\"\n\nHe shrugs and hands you the map of Paris. You feel a shiver ripple through the multiverse as the ancestral Curse of the Meldrews is lifted.\n\n\"I dunno why the freak you'd wanna go there, though. It's all covered in freakin' dog crap, and worse than that, it's full of freakin' Frogs! No, you need someplace better than that.\"\n\nHe scratches his head, encountering his beret, which he flings into the darkness.\n\n\"I know!\" he shouts. \"At-freakin'-lanta! Birthplace of Coca-Cola! Only the greatest freakin' drink in the history of the freakin' world! Yeah! C'mon! I got a cousin Vinnie who knows a guy who knows a guy who can get you a sweet freakin' deal on the trip!\"\n\nArm in arm, the two of you leave the Underground behind. After a fantastic vacation in Atlanta, the highlight of which is (of course) the \"World of Coke\" exhibit, you somehow find yourself...\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Machine", "response": "This Coke machine has served you well. It is always full, always has exact change, always operates smoothly, and always keeps its assortment of Coca-Cola products chilled at exactly the right temperature. Right now, though, the buttons don't seem to have the same labels they used to. The 'Select!' light is still on, meaning you can push the following buttons:\n\n**Curses** <Empty>\n**Adventure** <Empty>\n**Planetfall**\n**Hitchhiker**\n**Grip**\n**A Bear's Night Out**", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sing", "response": "\"I'd like to teach the world to sing\nIn perfect harmony.\nI'd like to buy the world a Coke,\nAnd keep it company!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the grip", "response": "Your surroundings melt away, and you find yourself in a completely new place.\n\nRain and mud. And the taste of something, sweet in your mouth.\n\nThose are your first solid memories. Rain pouring down on your head, filling your eyes. Mud beneath your feet, filling your shoes. And, of course, there's always Coca-Cola -- or is there? A sudden feeling of loss sweeps over you, and a chill wind cuts through your clothes with ease.\n\nShelter would be a good beginning.\n\nThe trees around you are spaced far enough to provide little shelter, allowing the stinging rain to pelt you. A grey mist conceals everything past four meters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You strike off in that direction, but soon become disoriented by the rain.\n\nOnce the field might have been covered in grass. Now the grass is but a memory. Mud covers the ground in its place, fed by the constant rain.\n\nBuried almost to its chin in the mud is a human head.\nThe head glances northeast for a moment. \"Just a sip, that's all I ask. One little sip of Coke.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of cola\n\n\"So thirsty ... So, so thirsty ...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the head", "response": "The head's eyes widen as you draw your foot back. \"Terry, no, please, oh God you can't--\" His cries are cut short as your foot slams into him. With the sound of eggshells cracking, the head fragments into countless pieces which are quickly lost in the mud.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bottle", "response": "A bottle of some dark, fizzy substance. But it's definitely not Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at head", "response": "Other than being buried in mud to his chin, the head is reassuringly normal. His hair and mustache are a matted brown, perhaps from genetics, perhaps from mud. Rivulets of water run down his creased face.\nThe head glances northeast for a moment. \"Just a sip, that's all I ask. One little sip of Coke.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the head about Coke", "response": "There is no reply.\n\n\"'Have A Coke and A Smile', they said. I'm smiling --\" the head pulls its lips into a cracked grin. \"Where's my Coke?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of cola\n\"'I'd Like to Buy the World a Coke'. And I did. So you OWE me!\" The head's eyes flicker to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bottle to the headf", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bottle to the head", "response": "There is no reply.\n\n\"'Have A Coke and A Smile', they said. I'm smiling --\" the head pulls its lips into a cracked grin. \"Where's my Coke?\"\n\nThe head's eyes widen as you open the bottle and begin to pour. \"Terry, no, please, oh God you can't--\" His cries are cut short as a stream of hissing liquid trickles into his mouth. His head seems almost involuntarily to wriggle its way further down into the mud, and quickly disappears. A few remaining drops of liquid drip from the bottle and splash down onto the soil, cutting tiny trails to the northeast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "The mud coating him makes you think twice.\n\"'I'd Like to Buy the World a Coke'. And I did. So you OWE me!\" The head's eyes flicker to the northeast.\n\nThe madness and confusion of this place drives you to ever-more-desperate acts. But here, at the brink, you manage to summon your courage and honor and draw back.\n\nThe head hums a Coke jingle to itself.\n\nAs you walk away, the head screams at you. \"Coward! You put me here! Can't you at least get me something to drink?\" Disturbed, you keep walking.\n\nLooming suddenly out of the gloom is a large marble building. Its columns jut skyward, raked by the unending rain. To the north lies its entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "As you walk through the door of the building the sound of the rain stops, as if suddenly turned off.\n\nThe two-story height of the foyer is channelled into a narrower hallway to the north. On the north wall to the west of the hallway's beginning is an open doorway. The building's entrance to the south is reflected in the marble floor.\n\nA section of the air just above your head shimmers. A small pyramid falls from the disturbance to the ground below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pyramid", "response": "A small paper pyramid, about three centimeters on an edge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "The pyramid begins glowing softly. It unfolds like a flower and voices begin to issue from it, saying \"Subject suffering from unusually low levels of sugar and caffeine...\" \"Thirst dangerously unsatisfied...\" (someone shouts) \"Doctor! We must try the new experimental treatment, it's his only hope!\" \"Fine, get me a syringe.\"\nWhen the light dies down, the pyramid is gone.\n\nYou can't see \"it\" (the paper pyramid) at the moment, unlike your Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Like the foyer, the hallway is marble. Its two-story height combined with its thinness inspires unease. A walkway runs above you, clinging to the east and west walls. Below the east walkway is a doorway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the walkway", "response": "The walkway rings the hall on every side but the south, casting a shadow on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Just enough light filters in to show you row after row of boxes filling rack after rack of shelves, making it difficult to find a place to stand. The room continues to the north. Above the west exit is a clock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "Cardboard boxes, all taped shut. Each one has been labeled with a black magic marker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the box", "response": "Your eyes roam over their surfaces, taking in their titles. Many are labeled \"Bottled: \" with a range of dates following. A few are labeled \"Carbonation.\" You feel an odd sense of disorientation as you stare at them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clock", "response": "A red-faced clock with white hands. Above the hands is written the inscription \"It's always time for Coca-Cola\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Metal shelves fill the hall; most are empty and many have succumbed to rust. The shelves that aren't empty hold broken shards of glass. The archive continues to the south, and an exit leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The hallway ends abruptly in a pair of large oak doors. Their intricate carving is barely visible in the leaden light from the windows above you. The doors are flanked by two sweeping staircases to the northeast and northwest. A doorway to the east is mirrored by a closed door to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the doors", "response": "The carved doors are made of oak and are twice your height. They stand slightly ajar, leaving enough room for you to enter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the doors", "response": "The doors have frozen in position over time. You cannot budge them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the small door", "response": "You open the small door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The room is hot and stifling -- makes you wish for a Coke right about now -- and cobwebs drip from every surface. A hot-water tank crouches in one corner. Rickety stairs lead into the depths of the building. To the east is an open door.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "A cramped square room, barely lit by windows above you. The north and west walls are taken up by tables. A clock is just visible next to the stairs on the south wall. In the northwest corner is a tiny drain, while a pile of bottles has claimed part of the east wall.\n\nA man stands bent over the tables, jotting things down in a large notebook.\n\nAs your footsteps sound on the stairs, the man turns. He looks you over, one eyebrow quirking in surprise. \"Hello,\" he says. \"And here I thought I was the last one still around. I'm Frankie.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hello", "response": "Frankie has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the bottle to the man", "response": "(the bottle of cola to Frankie)\n\"Dear God, what is this?\" he says. \"I've seen some weird things in my day, kid, but nothing as weird as this. Take some advice from someone who's been around and stick with Coke.\" He hands it back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the drain", "response": "The metal drain is a small circle with a grate about ten centimeters in diameter.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the bottles", "response": "The bottles are smooth and translucent, glowing softly from within. Several are caked with mud and dirt, testimony to their recent location. They have been stacked in a tight-fitting pyramid. You feel a strange sense of deja vu as you gaze into them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bottle", "response": "Which do you mean, the pile of bottles, the bottle-opener, the bottle of Sprite or the bottle of cola?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bottles", "response": "You reach your hand towards one of the bottles. As you draw nearer, a spark spits from the bottle, rushes up your arm, and then--\n\nDarkness, then light.\n\nYou see yourself, a brief memory of buying a Coke for the first time, a muttered conversation, money changing hands, the hiss of a can opening, and then the taste. Ahhh.\n\nLight, then darkness.\n\nYou'd been in the principal's office for hours. Got suspended for a week, you remember. But Billy Thimbleton was in the hospital with a broken arm and a black eye. That'll teach him to offer you a Dr. Pepper--\n\nWith a horrendous wrenching sensation you pull yourself away from the pile of bottles. You glance at Frankie, but absorbed in his work, he has not noticed your momentary distress.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the opener", "response": "That seems to belong to Frankie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Frankie for the opener", "response": "Frankie has better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Frankie", "response": "Frankie is of middling height, with tousled hair and a sandy brown mustache. He carries a notebook and a bottle. Resting in his shirt pocket is a bottle-opener.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill Frankie", "response": "As you prepare to attack Frankie, he turns and fixes you with a gimlet glare. \"Now, now,\" he says softly. \"Getting antsy without a caffeine fix, eh?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the opener", "response": "It looks like an ordinary bottle-opener, made out of metal with a pointy bit on one end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of cola", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the bottles", "response": "Again you reach for the bottles, but cannot draw close. The rush of memories triggered by the bottles was overwhelming the first time.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "A cramped square room, barely lit by windows above you. The north and west walls are taken up by tables. A clock is just visible next to the stairs on the south wall. In the northwest corner is a tiny drain, while a pile of bottles has claimed part of the east wall.\n\nFrankie is here, sorting and mixing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The hallway ends abruptly in a pair of large oak doors. Their intricate carving is barely visible in the leaden light from the windows above you. The doors are flanked by two sweeping staircases to the northeast and northwest. A doorway to the east is mirrored by an open door to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "The walkway runs along the east wall of the hallway. A sweeping staircase joins the walkway to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Your footsteps echo hollowly in the dimly-lit and cavernous hall. Benches line the floor, their rows skewed slightly to focus on the object at the north end. A clock is set in the wall in plain view of the desk. The south third of the room is covered by a balcony, reducing the height of the hall from two stories to one. A small door to the east and two large doors to the south stand ajar.\n\nA dust-covered Coke machine stands at the north end of the hall, the focus of attention.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Machine", "response": "The Coke machine's lights are dimmed and the whole is covered with a thin coating of dust. \"What demon hath robbed thee of thy vigor, noble machine?\" you can't help but cry. Then you notice the power cord extending from the back of the machine, hanging limp on the floor mere inches from a socket.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You plug Machine into the socket", "response": "Curses! Inches too short! What fiendish mind could have devised such a Tantalus-like torture?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the socket", "response": "It's an apparently ordinary light socket, tucked away against the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cord", "response": "The plug is a dusty black in color. It extends from the back of the machine, just waiting to bring the electronic god to life again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the cord", "response": "Cutting that up would achieve little.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit Machine", "response": "Violence doesn't solve anything. But Coke does!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Your footsteps echo hollowly in the dimly-lit and cavernous hall. Benches line the floor, their rows skewed slightly to focus on the object at the north end. A clock is set in the wall in plain view of the desk. The south third of the room is covered by a balcony, reducing the height of the hall from two stories to one. A small door to the east and two large doors to the south stand ajar.\n\nA dust-covered Coke machine stands at the north end of the hall, the focus of attention.\n\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the cord", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick socket", "response": "Teddy bears, being soft toys, find such feats difficult.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "What you can see of yourself is familiar. But wait .. there's something different. Something wrong. You don't have a Coke!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The two-story height of the foyer is channelled into a narrower hallway to the north. On the north wall to the west of the hallway's beginning is an open doorway. The building's entrance to the south is reflected in the marble floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You start to take a step out the door, then pause. Somehow, the weather has turned from drenching rain to snow, colder than a Coke straight from the fridge. You shiver and retreat back to the warmth of the foyer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Open boxes", "response": "The tape prevents you from oepning the boxes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Metal shelves fill the hall; most are empty and many have succumbed to rust. The shelves that aren't empty hold broken shards of glass. The archive continues to the south, and an exit leads west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shards", "response": "The glass fragments (perhaps broken bottles?) run the gamut from large shards to fine, gritty powder.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shards", "response": "You would most surely cut yourself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the shelves", "response": "The shelves cover the room, as if they had multiplied in the same manner Coke bottles in the fridge don't. They are covered in broken shards.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take all", "response": "bottle-opener: That seems to belong to Frankie.\nbottle of Sprite: That seems to belong to Frankie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Frankie about the sprite", "response": "\"Actually, yeah, you could give me a hand here. Could you take this up to the top floor and get it opened? I'm not having much luck with my bottle-opener.\" He hands you the bottle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the notes", "response": "\"Top floor, I said. In the library.\"\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Frankie about notebook", "response": "Frankie says \"I'm doing some observational analysis. I'd like to do some product synthesis of these bottles once I figure them out.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Frankie about yourself", "response": "Frankie shrugs. \"I'd never seen you before you walked down the stairs. You look like you could use a Coke, though.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Frankie about Frankie", "response": "Frankie grins sardonically. \"I'm just an archaeologist, nothing more. My team and I were working on unearthing those,\" he gestures at the pile of bottles by the wall, \"until we got word of the drink shortage.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go up", "response": "The room is hot and stifling -- makes you wish for a Coke right about now -- and cobwebs drip from every surface. A hot-water tank crouches in one corner. Rickety stairs lead into the depths of the building. To the east is an open door.\n\nThe hallway ends abruptly in a pair of large oak doors. Their intricate carving is barely visible in the leaden light from the windows above you. The doors are flanked by two sweeping staircases to the northeast and northwest. A doorway to the east is mirrored by an open door to the west.\nYou can't go that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "The walkway runs along the east wall of the hallway. A sweeping staircase joins the walkway to the southwest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "The walkway is cut off to the south by the rising walls of the foyer. There is a doorway to the east; the walkway continues to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The library is a dimly-lit backwards L curving around the end of the building. Shelves filled with books take up much of the room; the rest is inhabited by stacks of books. A metal sentinel guards the west exit; directly above it is a clock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine book", "response": "The books resemble case histories from a law library: leather binding, small type on their spines.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read book", "response": "You pull one off the shelf at random and open it: \"Coca leaves, cola nut, carbonated water, corn syrup, phosophorus ..\" You replace it and draw another: slightly different ingredients, slightly different method of preparation. Each recipe seems vaguely familiar, none seem quite right.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the guard", "response": "A dark metal statue, reminiscent of a prop from Fritz Lang's Metropolis. A stern, angular head sits atop a sexless body seven feet tall. One arm hangs by its side -- the other extends outwards as if to grasp something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the Sprite in the hand", "response": "The statue's relaxed hand suddenly blurs into life. It reaches up to the bottle, twists off the cap, and returns to the relaxed position almost before you noticed it moving. You (gingerly!) take the bottle back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink sprite", "response": "You think about it, but decide you'd really rather have a Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Sprite to Frankie", "response": "\"Excellent!\" Frankie says, taking the bottle from you. He immediately begins observing the Sprite and taking notes on its behavior. \"By the way,\" he says, \"I don't need this, and you might find it handy.\" Frankie takes the bottle opener out of his pocket and hands it to you.\n\nA quiet sound catches your attention. A black liquid has begun welling up through the drain, covering it and starting to fill the northwest corner.\n\nFrankie glances down, then swears quietly. \"Sam, you son-of-a-bitch,\" he mutters, scribbling furiously in his notebook.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bottle opener", "response": "It looks like an ordinary bottle-opener, made out of metal with a pointy bit on one end.\n\nHissing, the table legs begin to dissolve in the sludge. You hastily step away.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the bottle", "response": "Which do you mean, the pile of bottles, the bottle of Sprite, the bottle-opener or the bottle of cola?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cola", "response": "If you'd like to drink it, at least be honest with yourself and just say so. Otherwise, pour it someplace or something.\n\nAlmost all the available floorspace is taken up by Pepsi. Several of the bottles in the pile have already been eaten away, their contents mixing with the sludge. You step back to a narrow spot by the stairs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink cola", "response": "The madness and confusion of this place drives you to ever-more-desperate acts. But here, at the brink, you manage to summon your courage and honor and draw back.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Not with the Pepsi down there!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the opener in the socket", "response": "You can't see any such thing.\n\nSomewhat unwisely, you jab the bottle opener into the socket. Current flows through your body and you twitch like a trout on a hook.\n\n*** You have failed to achieve the real thing ***\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the opener to the cord", "response": "You would achieve nothing by this.\n\nThe building trembles slightly, as if something was dissolving its foundations. Surely .. nah.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You close your eyes. You pray for a Coke. You open them again. You still don't have a Coke, but you feel more hopeful of getting one soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Machine", "response": "The Coke machine's lights are dimmed and the whole is covered with a thin coating of dust. \"What demon hath robbed thee of thy vigor, noble machine?\" you can't help but cry. Then you notice the power cord extending from the back of the machine, hanging limp on the floor mere inches from a socket.\n\nYou cry out as the floor collapses, dropping you into a seething pool of Pepsi-Cola.\n\n*** You have failed to achieve the real thing ***\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of cola\na bottle-opener", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You strike off in that direction, but soon become disoriented by the rain.\n\nOnce the field might have been covered in grass. Now the grass is but a memory. Mud covers the ground in its place, fed by the constant rain.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You strike off in that direction, but soon become disoriented by the rain.\n\nThe trees around you are spaced far enough to provide little shelter, allowing the stinging rain to pelt you. A grey mist conceals everything past four meters.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-east", "response": "You strike off in that direction, but soon become disoriented by the rain.\n\nLooming suddenly out of the gloom is a large marble building. Its columns jut skyward, raked by the unending rain. To the north lies its entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "As you walk through the door of the building the sound of the rain stops, as if suddenly turned off.\n\nThe two-story height of the foyer is channelled into a narrower hallway to the north. On the north wall to the west of the hallway's beginning is an open doorway. The building's entrance to the south is reflected in the marble floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Like the foyer, the hallway is marble. Its two-story height combined with its thinness inspires unease. A walkway runs above you, clinging to the east and west walls. Below the east walkway is a doorway.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Coke1", "response": "Enter saved game to store: Ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You jump", "response": "Careful: you'll spill your Coke!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "The hallway ends abruptly in a pair of large oak doors. Their intricate carving is barely visible in the leaden light from the windows above you. The doors are flanked by two sweeping staircases to the northeast and northwest. A doorway to the east is mirrored by an open door to the west.\n\nThe walkway runs along the east wall of the hallway. A sweeping staircase joins the walkway to the southwest.\n\nThe walkway is cut off to the south by the rising walls of the foyer. There is a doorway to the east; the walkway continues to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the Cola to the sentinel", "response": "You are carrying:\na bottle of cola\na bottle-opener\n\nThe statue's relaxed hand suddenly blurs into life. It reaches up to the bottle and twists off the cap. Hidden taste sensors activate, and the sentinel hurls the bottle to the ground, to shatter in a crash of glass and hissing fluid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hand", "response": "I don't suppose the sentinel would care for that. I *do* suppose the sentinel would care for a refreshing Coke!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at floor", "response": "Which do you mean, the floor or the marble floor?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Marble", "response": "The floor reflects the ceiling back. For a moment, the light shifts, and you think you catch a glimpse of a familiar red-and-white image; then the light shifts again and the pattern vanishes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look up", "response": "What do you want to look up in?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the ceiling", "response": "You see nothing special about the ceiling. It is entirely unlike refreshing Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You achieve nothing by this.\n\nAn inner voice tells you there's no Coke that way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the clock", "response": "Nothing obvious happens.\n\nA red-faced clock with white hands. Above the hands is written the inscription \"It's always time for Coca-Cola\".", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the clock", "response": "It's up high on the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cord", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the opener in the socket", "response": "Somewhat unwisely, you jab the bottle opener into the socket. Current flows through your body and you twitch like a trout on a hook. You grasp the power cable firmly and hope for the best. The Coke machine hums to life as you cry out with the pain. Tragically, the last words you hear before it all fades to black are a mechanical voice saying \"I'm sorry, this machine is all out of that selection. Please enter 75 cents and choose again.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look at your surroundings", "response": "You are in the room where your father died. It is crowded with familiar medical equipment which clusters around a bed.\nThe Pause That Refreshes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the equipment", "response": "The array of equipment only succeeded in prolonging your father's agony. Tucked in amongst the equipment you notice a mini-fridge.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the fridge", "response": "The minifridge is small but compact.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You open the mini-fridge, revealing a can of Coke.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take can", "response": "Taken. (Things go better with Coke.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink coke", "response": "You take a sip of the Coke. Truly, this entire experience was worth it. You glance up again, and notice the prone figure of your father, lying there.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine father", "response": "He breathes in shallow gasps. His face is pale as a candle flame. The cancer has crept from his lungs to the rest of his body.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give Coke to the father", "response": "You lean over and tip some of the Coke into your father's mouth. His eyes open in surprise for a minute, and then he slowly smiles. \"You're -- You're a good boy, Terry.\"\n\n*** Thanks to Coca-Cola, you have resolved your latent Oedipus complex and gone on to a happier and more mentally and physically secure life ***", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the father about Coke", "response": "Of all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.\n\nYou can't see any such thing. Maybe you meant to refer to your Coke?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Machine", "response": "This Coke machine has served you well. It is always full, always has exact change, always operates smoothly, and always keeps its assortment of Coca-Cola products chilled at exactly the right temperature. Right now, though, the buttons don't seem to have the same labels they used to. The 'Select!' light is still on, meaning you can push the following buttons:\n\n**Curses** <Empty>\n**Adventure** <Empty>\n**Planetfall**\n**Hitchhiker**\n**Grip** <Empty>\n**A Bear's Night Out**", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na can of Coca-Cola\na dressing gown (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine can", "response": "Truly, all of your desires can be assuaged with the refreshing goodness inside this can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Nutrimat", "response": "The Nutrimat has a door which can be opened and a button which can be pressed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the door, revealing some circuitry.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at cup", "response": "This is a cup of fizzy brown liquid.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take cup", "response": "Taken. (Things go better with Coke.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're wearing a red dressing gown with white trim.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the gown", "response": "The gown is dappled with brown stains from having consumed past cans of Coke a bit too eagerly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink coke", "response": "Aaaaah! What joy! What bliss! What unbearable ecstasy of delight!", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This room is empty except for a large machine bearing the label \"NUTRIMAT\".\n\nYou can see a Nutrimat here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink cup", "response": "PFAH! This beverage is almost, but not quite, entirely unlike Coke! You dash the cup from your lips.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Nutrimat about the tea", "response": "You can only do that to something animate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "You're too intrigued by the Nutrimat to leave.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na can of Coca-Cola\na dressing gown (being worn)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the circuitry", "response": "This is the circuitry that runs the Nutrimat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're wearing a red dressing gown with white trim.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine can", "response": "Truly, all of your desires can be assuaged with the refreshing goodness inside this can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pour Coke in the circuitry", "response": "The Nutrimat emits a shower of sparks. \"OH!\" it cries. \"So THAT'S what Coca-Cola is! My circuits were previously unable to compute a substance so crisp, so refreshing, so delicious!\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You press the button", "response": "\"I already made you a beverage,\" says the Nutrimat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink can", "response": "Aaaaah! What joy! What bliss! What unbearable ecstasy of delight!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink cup", "response": "AHHH! Now that's more like it! Crisp, refreshing Coca-Cola!\n\nMarvin the robot wanders into the room. \"Oh my,\" he says. \"Human, you have managed to acquire both Coke and More Coke at the same time. Truly a sign of intelligence. Well done.\"\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Machine", "response": "This Coke machine has served you well. It is always full, always has exact change, always operates smoothly, and always keeps its assortment of Coca-Cola products chilled at exactly the right temperature. Right now, though, the buttons don't seem to have the same labels they used to. The 'Select!' light is still on, meaning you can push the following buttons:\n\n**Curses** <Empty>\n**Adventure** <Empty>\n**Planetfall**\n**Hitchhiker** <Empty>\n**Grip** <Empty>\n**A Bear's Night Out**", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Press planetfall", "response": "Your surroundings melt away, and you find yourself in a completely new place.\n\nYou yawn, stretch, and roll over blearily. Suddenly, you feel a sharp pain in your side! Your eyes snap open, just in time to see Floyd bend over to poke you again. You leap to your feet.\n\nThe is the second half of the sterilization chamber leading from the main lab to the Bio Lab. The door to the east, leading to the Bio Lab, has a window. The bio lock continues to the west.\n\nThe door to the lab, mercifully, is closed.\n\nYour trusty companion, Floyd the robot, bounces to his feet as well. \"Hi!\", he beams. \"You sure are a sleepyhead.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Floyd", "response": "From its design, Floyd the robot seems to be of the multi-purpose sort. It is slightly cross-eyed, and its mechanical mouth forms a lopsided grin.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Floyd about Pepsi", "response": "Floyd, clearly uncomprehending, whistles cheerily.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Floyd about Coke", "response": "\"Irving the miniaturization-tech-person used to drink lots of refreshing Coca-Cola. He was so absent-minded that he added RNA memory engrams to all Coke in Complex, so he could remember his passwords. So for you to fix computer, you have to drink Coke. Coke is It.\"\n\nFloyd pauses for a moment, then glances toward the lab door. \"Looks dangerous in there,\" says Floyd. \"I don't think you should go inside.\" He peers in again at the Coke on the Bio Lab floor. \"But without refreshing RNA-enhanced Coca-Cola, you won't know minibooth code to fix computer. Hmmm... I know! Floyd will get refreshing Coca-Cola. Robots are tough. Nothing can hurt robots. You open the door, then Floyd will rush in. Then you close door. When Floyd knocks, open door again. Okay? Go!\" Floyd's voice trembles slightly as he waits for you to open the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "The door opens and Floyd, pausing only for the briefest moment, plunges into the Bio Lab. Immediately, he is set upon by hideous, mutated monsters! More are heading straight toward the open door! Floyd shrieks and yells to you to close the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "The door closes.\nFrom within the lab you hear ferocious growlings, the sounds of a skirmish, and then a high-pitched metallic scream!\n\nThat's already closed.\nYou hear, slightly muffled by the door, three fast knocks, followed by the distinctive sound of tearing metal.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "Floyd stumbles out of the Bio Lab, clutching the delicious-looking can of Coca-Cola. The mutations rush toward the open doorway!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the Bio Lab door. And not a moment too soon! You hear a pounding from the door as the monsters within vent their frustration at losing their prey. And, of course, their Coke.\n\nFloyd staggers to the ground, clutching the delicious can of Coke. He is badly torn apart, with loose wires and broken circuits everywhere. Oil flows from his lubrication system. He obviously has only moments to live.\n\nYou drop to your knees and cradle Floyd's head in your lap. Floyd looks up at his friend with half-open eyes. \"Floyd did it ... got Coke. Floyd a good friend, huh?\" Quietly, you croon Floyd's favorite song: \"I'd Like To Buy The World A Coke\".\n\nAs you finish the last verse, Floyd smiles with contentment. His fingers tighten around the Coke can, and with a spine-tingling \"Pfffft!\" he opens it. With his last strength, he sets the can on the ground before you. His eyes close as his head rolls to the side. You sit in silence for a moment, in memory of a brave friend who gave his life so that you might have Coke. All in all, a fair trade, but admirable nonetheless.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You close your eyes. You pray for a Coke. You open them again. You still don't have a Coke, but you feel more hopeful of getting one soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drink coke", "response": "Aaaaah! What joy! What bliss! You feel renewed strength and energy coursing through your body.\n\nAnd -- what's that? There.\n\nThere, glimmering in the corner of your mind: the access code to the teleportation booth. Floyd was right.\n\nNow it's up to you to make his sacrifice worthwhile. Casting a final, sad glance at his mangled carcass, you stride off to the west...\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are fit, happy, and healthy. You drink Coke!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Machine", "response": "This Coke machine has served you well. It is always full, always has exact change, always operates smoothly, and always keeps its assortment of Coca-Cola products chilled at exactly the right temperature. Right now, though, the buttons don't seem to have the same labels they used to. The 'Select!' light is still on, meaning you can push the following buttons:\n\n**Curses** <Empty>\n**Adventure** <Empty>\n**Planetfall** <Empty>\n**Hitchhiker** <Empty>\n**Grip** <Empty>\n**A Bear's Night Out**", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at David", "response": "David is handsome, debonair, forgetful and fast asleep. He also wrote this description, and loves Coca-Cola (tm).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You'll have to get off the big bed first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "Quite the most beautiful furry brown teddy bear. And a good potential corporate logo to attract young children, not that the Coca-Cola Corporation would ever do that. Anyway, we fund dentists' groups to prevent this sort of accusation, buddy! So leave us alone.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get off the bed", "response": "You tumble down, but being a soft bear, that's ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "When you aren't lying on the bed, you usually stay in here, snug and safe with your friends atop the warm pile of clothes.\n\nThe cupboard opens eastward to the bedroom.\n\nOn the pile of clothes you can see a can of Coca-Cola (tm) and a hand drawn sign.\n\nYour warm winter Coca-Cola jacket is here, which may be just as well, it's a little chilly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sign", "response": "Matt and Terry Moose refuse to participate in this cheap commercial ripoff. However, please watch out for their upcoming game, Matt and Terry's Interactive Magic Show, at \n\nMatt and Terry Moose refuse to participate in this cheap commercial ripoff. However, please watch out for their upcoming game, Matt and Terry's Interactive Magic Show, at an interactive fiction archive near you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the jacket", "response": "Just the thing for a cold night.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get can", "response": "Taken. (Things go better with Coke.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the jacket", "response": "A smart red jacket with big pockets and a Coca-Cola (tm) logo, teddy bear sized.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You sit on the pile", "response": "You struggle, but clamber up successfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine pile", "response": "A neatly stacked pile of clothes intended for human beings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You'll have to get off the pile of clothes first.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downwards", "response": "You tumble down, but being a soft bear, that's ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Moonlight plays through the window, softly illuminating the bedroom, full of comfortable memories.\n\nTo the west is the cupboard where you usually live, and the doorway to the northwest leads to the rest of the house.\n\nA big bed fills up most of the room.\n\nDavid lies on the bed, very much asleep.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search david", "response": "David is out of reach.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wake david", "response": "David continues to sleep, totally oblivious.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You climb the bed", "response": "You struggle, but clamber up successfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit David with can", "response": "You find nothing as interesting as your Coke.\n\nThe refreshing, ice cold can gently touches David on the nose. Instantly he awakes, and grabs the can.\n\n`Wow, a refreshing ice cold Coke (tm)!'\n\nDavid opens the can, pausing for a moment to savour the cool air from within, then raises the can to his lips. The first sip is smooth, yet effervescent with the familiar thirst quenching taste of Coca-Cola.\n\nDavid looks down at you.\n\n`Oh no! The Teddy Bear Picnic! Do we have enough Coke (tm)?'\n\nHe races from the room, with the ice-cold can of Coke (tm).\n\nYou can't see any such thing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look", "response": "Bedroom (on the big bed)\nMoonlight plays through the window, softly illuminating the bedroom, full of comfortable memories.\n\nTo the west is the cupboard where you usually live, and the doorway to the northwest leads to the rest of the house.\n\nYou hear David happily gulping Coke (tm) and riffing through papers.\n\n`Aha! I knew this card was somewhere.'", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You tumble down, but being a soft bear, that's ok.\n\nYou hear David pulling several 12-packs of refreshing Coca-Cola (tm) from a high cupboard somewhere in the kitchen.\n\n`Aha! A free Coca-Cola (tm) trading stamp!'", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-east", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou hear the creaking of a picnic basket under strain as David pushes in several 12-packs of refreshing Coke (tm).", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "There's no need to explore tonight- Coca-Cola (tm) will take care of everything!\n\nDavid rushes back into the room.\n\n`There, all ready for the picnic. Thanks to my teddy bear, and the things-go-better flavour of an ice cold Coca-Cola (tm)!'\n\nYou go to sleep, David lies awake for the rest of the night, and you have a wonderful picnic the next day, with Coke (tm) enough for all!\n\nOf all the places in the world to obtain the sweet goodness of Coca-Cola products, this has to be your favorite. The Coke machine dominates the landscape, resting snugly against the perfect brick wall next to the unbroken sidewalk, which seems to lead to untold possibilities, their potential unlocked by the mere presence of Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Machine", "response": "This Coke machine has served you well. It is always full, always has exact change, always operates smoothly, and always keeps its assortment of Coca-Cola products chilled at exactly the right temperature. Right now, though, the buttons don't seem to have the same labels they used to. The 'Select!' light is still on, meaning you can push the following buttons:\n\n**Curses** <Empty>\n**Adventure** <Empty>\n**Planetfall** <Empty>\n**Hitchhiker** <Empty>\n**Grip** <Empty>\n**A Bear's Night Out** <Empty>\n\nWith a wink, the 'Select!' button turns off, and you realize you have finished the last selection. With a melancholy sigh, you turn to walk away down the sunlit street, Coke grasped firmly in hand, ready to take on the world.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Collegiate", "Slice of life" ]

[ "active NPCs", "basic difficulty", "college", "IF Competition 1996", "IFComp Game", "short length", "TADS", "TADS 2", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 1996", "XYZZY Best NPCs" ]

[ 1, 7, 12, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "Examine tv", "response": "This is that indispensable staple of modern civilization, the television set. Even you admit to watching an hour or two a day. The television is currently on and blaring loud noise into the room.\nThere is a power cord behind the television.\n\n\"Reaction formation, rationalization, projection, reaction formation!\" John recites desperately.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the tv", "response": "Unfortunately, this is one of those models of televisions which can only be turned off by remote control.\n\nJohn squirms in his seat, trying to concentrate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Info", "response": "An Interactive Cramming\n\n\"Kissing the Buddha's Feet\" was an entry in the Second Annual Interactive Fiction Competition. It placed fifth overall in a field of 27 entries, and later won two XYZZY awards (Best Individual NPC and Best NPCs). Version 1.1 is essentially the same as the game that was submitted to the competition, except for a few bug fixes and cosmetic changes; these changes are outlined in the file bugfix.txt which should have come with the game package.\n\nThis game is freeware (though not public domain), and may be freely played, copied, and distributed provided that you:\n\n1) Don't sell it for a profit. You may charge a fee to cover the cost of any media you distribute the game on but no more.\n2) Don't modify the game.\n\nI appreciate any comments, criticism, and bug reports you send me.\nYou can reach me by e-mail at leonlin@uclink.berkeley.edu. This address should be valid at least until the end of 1997.\n\nThanks, and enjoy the game!\n\n\n\nThanks to Kevin Wilson for his advice and help.\n\nThanks also to this competition's Internet Beta-Testing team, particularly Michael Kinyon, who helped me find bugs and other annoying oddities in my game I probably would have never discovered on my own. And many thanks to those who wrote to me after the competition to inform about bugs they had discovered.\n\nMany thanks as well to the many people who wrote reviews and comments about this game, as well as my previous game, \"The One That Got Away\"--such criticism has helped me improve and grow as an author of interactive fiction. Thanks also to all of the people whose votes in the 1996 Interactive Fiction Competition and the XYZZY Awards helped this game receive the recognition that it did.\n\nAnd finally, thanks to my parents, who have given me their love and support. This game wouldn't have been possible without them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull the cord", "response": "You try to unplug the power cord. However, rats have chewed through its insulation, exposing the underlying wire. When you touch the cord, you experience a painful but otherwise harmless electric shock. Cursing, you make a strategic retreat to the paisley couch.\n\nJohn squirms in his seat, trying to concentrate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the couch", "response": "There's nothing under your paisley couch. As it should be.\n\nJohn tries to write some notes on a piece of paper, messes up, and, in a fit of frustration, crumples up the paper and throws it to the floor.\n\nYou hear a violent gust of wind blow into John's bedroom, causing the door to slam closed. John, startled by the noise, looks around confusedly. \"Um, could you go in my room and close my window, please?\" he asks you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond a closed door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\n\nYou hear a knock on the front door. You rush to the living room, knowing that trouble has arrived, but are too late! The door flies open with a crash!\n\nThere is an explosion of confetti around you, and a paper noisemaker licks impudently at your face. When the paper clears, you see standing at the door John's four troublesome friends, Alice, Bob, Carl, and Evan! \"Hi-yah, John!\" greets Alice, their leader. \"Looks like we're not too late for the party!\" She doffs her conical party hat and strides over to John's desk. \"Say, is that a psychology book you're studying? Really hitting the books now, are ya?\" She grins as she puts down some snacks and a radio blaring obnoxious music, and parks herself and Carl on the floor. Evan immediately goes to you and starts speaking about trivia, and Bob wanders around drunkenly.\n\nIt's going to be an even longer night than you imagined...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You can't leave your apartment now! Not when you still have to keep an eye on John!\n\nJohn wails to you, \"Could you help quiz me? Please?\"\n\nCarl takes out a candy bar, strips the cellophane off of it, crumples it into a neat, compact ball, and tosses it absent-mindedly in the direction of the bedrooms.\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of hearts with Carl.\n\nBob, thinking that he's walking in a straight line, toes a path more akin to the outline of a Picasso painting than anything else.\n\nGoing into deep financial detail, Evan gives a discourse on the rise and fall of Infocom, Inc. He also mentions how much he liked that little robot Floyd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You see a piece of cellophane here.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for Monopoly.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cellophane", "response": "Taken.\n\nGoing into deep financial detail, Evan gives a discourse on the rise and fall of Infocom, Inc. He also mentions how much he liked that little robot Floyd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You'll have to open John's bedroom door first.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nGoing into deep financial detail, Evan gives a discourse on the rise and fall of Infocom, Inc. He also mentions how much he liked that little robot Floyd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open door", "response": "Opened.\n\nYou hear lots of drunken singing from somewhere else in the apartment.\n\nGoing into deep financial detail, Evan gives a discourse on the rise and fall of Infocom, Inc. He also mentions how much he liked that little robot Floyd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "his stuff, though for the most part you don't take advantage of this. Like your room, John's room has a bed, dresser, desk, and an open closet door to the east. Unlike your room, it is quite disorganized, to say the least. Sheets are spread all over the room and clothes, as well as less-speakable debris, are strewn about, giving the room a ripe, musty odor not unlike rotting fruit in an ancient tomb; broken plastic models litter the scarred desk. Set in the north wall is an open window to the outside world. There is a (fortunately) open door to the south.\nYou see a wastebasket here. The wastebasket seems to contain a\nblue wrapper.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"\n\nEvan follows you into John's bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close window", "response": "You slide the window shut, only to discover that there is a round, baseball-sized hole in the middle of the window which is admitting a large amount of wind into the room.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\n\"You know,\" says Evan philosophically, \"in Taiwan, they have this phrase that describes desperate students who have to make a supreme last-minute effort to study for exams. They're said to be 'kissing the Buddha's feet.'\" He looks pleased at having known that piece of trivia.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine wrapper", "response": "This looks like a wrapper for some sort of box. It's pastel blue, with a paisley pattern tastefully silkscreened on. A small gold seal, mostly intact, has the logo for \"Dee's Chocolates\" on it.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for mah jongg.\n\nEvan gives a short speech about what's wrong with the nation's foreign policy and how he would change things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wrapper", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\nEvan speculates about the recipe for Kentucky Fried Chicken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the wrappr on the window", "response": "\"Ah, 'wrappr', now that's an interesting word,\" says Evan. \"Let me tell you about its etymology...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the wrapper on the window", "response": "Looks like that won't fit in the hole.\n\nEvan talks about the impact of the longbow on the Hundred Years' War.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "The decrepit state of John's desk bespeaks both a ripe old age as well as years of misuse; its surface bears many jagged scars and scorch marks. Otherwise, the desk looks surprising clean (for a possession of John's), mainly because most of the junk that normally occupies its surface has been swept onto the floor or into the closet. There is a single drawer on the desk, which is closed. On the desk you see some broken plastic models; besides that, you see a handheld electronic trivia game.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"Send in the Clowns\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nGoing into deep financial detail, Evan gives a discourse on the rise and fall of Infocom, Inc. He also mentions how much he liked that little robot Floyd.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kill Evan", "response": "What do you want to attack him with?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the game", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for mah jongg.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"\n\nEvan wonders what the world would be like if it were love, not money, that made the world go round.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at game", "response": "Small, orange, and plastic, this electronic game was given to John for his birthday. John, having a limited attention span at best, quickly abandoned this gift before he could get through its alleged \"20,000 Questions!\" The case sports an LCD screen and a small speaker. There are also four buttons, colored red, yellow, green, and blue, lined up vertically to the left of the screen, next to where the possible answers to the game's questions will be displayed. The game is currently off.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\n\"I believe,\" says Evan, \"that a philosopher once said, 'You can only win so many battles before you lose the war.'\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the game to Evan", "response": "Evan looks excitedly at the game you're giving him. \"Why-y-y, that's a '20,000 Questions' trivia game! It's the fourth edition! A rarity! I've always wanted to play that!\" He fumbles clumsily at the game, which he turns on and starts playing eagerly.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for chess.\n\nA violent gust of wind flies in through the hole in the window, causing the bedroom door to slam closed with a loud \"BANG!\"\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is John's closet. There are no skeletons hiding here, but considering the amount of dust and dirty clothes around, you would hardly be surprised if one of the undead were lurking around in this dimly lit space. The one exit is a door to the west, which is open. You see a catcher's mitt here.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\nEvan follows you into John's closet, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the mitt", "response": "Taken.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing some heavy metal song along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You see a wastebasket here.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for canasta.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\nEvan follows you into John's bedroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the mitt in hole", "response": "Looks like that won't fit in the hole.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the sheet", "response": "Even if it *were* your job to pick up after John, you wouldn't want to touch these sheets.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "his stuff, though for the most part you don't take advantage of this. Like your room, John's room has a bed, dresser, desk, and an open closet door to the east. Unlike your room, it is quite disorganized, to say the least. Sheets are spread all over the room and clothes, as well as less-speakable debris, are strewn about, giving the room a ripe, musty odor not unlike rotting fruit in an ancient tomb; broken plastic models litter the scarred desk. Set in the north wall is a closed window to the outside world. There is a closed door to the south.\nYou see a wastebasket here.\nEvan is here, playing an electronic trivia game. Loud electronic beeps and whistles fly out of the game's speakers.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for checkers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine model", "response": "These used to be models of military equipment that John liked to make (however ineptly). However, this once proud army has been reduced to piles of broken, shattered pieces by some hard-hitting, fast-travelling force. You notice a thick piece of duct tape hanging limply on the remains of one model.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get tape", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tape on the wrapper", "response": "There's no good surface on the blue wrapper.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You have a piece of cellophane, a blue wrapper, a catcher's mitt, and a piece of duct tape.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dresser", "response": "The dresser looks as if it might fall apart at any moment. You eye it cautiously. The drawers are closed.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"Love Shack\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opened.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "There's nothing in John's dresser.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for go.\n\nA violent gust of wind flies in through the hole in the window, causing the bedroom door to slam open with a loud \"BANG!\"\n\nYou see Bob stagger in from the door to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You see Bob stagger in from the door to the north.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The bathroom, fortunately, is one of the rooms you've agreed to maintain, and as a result it isn't too filthy. Against the north wall is a gleaming sink and a mirror mounted above it; next to the mirror is a medicine cabinet. On the south wall is a towel rack. A toilet and shower, both scrubbed to exquisite perfection with lye-based cleansers, complete this traditional bathroom. The only exit to this bathroom is through a door to the west, which is open.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"American Pie\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\nEvan follows you into the bathroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the towel", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cabinet", "response": "Which cabinet do you mean, the bathroom sink cabinet, or the medicine cabinet?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Medicine", "response": "The medicine cabinet is closed.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open it", "response": "Opened.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "The medicine cabinet is open. There's nothing in the medicine cabinet.\n\nYou hear lots of drunken singing from somewhere else in the apartment.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the sink cabinet", "response": "Opening the cabinet reveals the pipes which comprise the bathroom sink plumbing. Besides that, you see in the cabinet nothing at all.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing the theme from \"Love Story\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see Bob, staggering around, like the slightest hint of alcohol\nin the air will send him crashing to the ground here.\n\nBob tries to go through a wall. His head rebounds violently off the hard plaster surface. \"Thang you sir, may I hab uhnudder?\" he says humbly.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "his stuff, though for the most part you don't take advantage of this. Like your room, John's room has a bed, dresser, desk, and an open closet door to the east. Unlike your room, it is quite disorganized, to say the least. Sheets are spread all over the room and clothes, as well as less-speakable debris, are strewn about, giving the room a ripe, musty odor not unlike rotting fruit in an ancient tomb; broken plastic models litter the scarred desk. Set in the north wall is a closed window to the outside world. There is a (fortunately) open door to the south.\nYou see a wastebasket here.\n\nEvan follows you into John's bedroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the towel in the window", "response": "You can stuff the towel in the hole, but it won't form a tight seal and stay in place. You need something more reliable.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for checkers.\n\nYou hear lots of drunken singing from somewhere else in the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for gin rummy.\n\nBob staggers into the short hall, looking incredibly dazed.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently on.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a crumpled paper and a radio here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\nJohn hits his forehead with his hands, muttering, \"Think! Think!\" It doesn't seem to be working.\n\n\"So, John,\" says Alice, \"how're you doing hitting those books? Real swell?\" John mumbles something uncomfortably and tries to continue studying.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tape on the towel", "response": "There's no good surface on the pink towel.\n\nJohn hits his forehead with his hands, muttering, \"Think! Think!\" It doesn't seem to be working.\n\nAlice reminisces about a really good tuna fish sandwich she once had.\n\nYou hear lots of drunken singing from somewhere else in the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the crumpled paper", "response": "This is a piece of crumpled paper, on which is written a few words on Freudian psychology, most of it incoherent (not that it would make much difference, anyway).\n\nJohn wails to you, \"Could you help quiz me? Please?\"\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of bridge with Carl.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get it", "response": "Taken.\n\nJohn hits his forehead with his hands, muttering, \"Think! Think!\" It doesn't seem to be working.\n\nAlice looks outside wistfully. \"You know, Carl and I would be outta here now...but we don't have enough money for a proper dinner--not these sad snacks that we have--for both of us. Oh, I have enough for just me, but...\" She looks at Carl, who has a mournful look on his face. \"...but, I can't be that cruel, can I?\"\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the tape on crumpled", "response": "There's no good surface on the crumpled paper.\n\nJohn tries to write some notes on a piece of paper, messes up, and, in a fit of frustration, crumples up the paper and throws it to the floor.\n\n\"C'mon, John,\" urges Alice, \"take a break, have some fun with us! You can always take more tests next semester!\"\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tape", "response": "This is a thick piece of duct tape. In fact, with further examination, you realize that it is a piece of \"soundproofing\" duct tape you used to construct your closet door. Now you know where that roll went...\n\nJohn wails to you, \"Could you help quiz me? Please?\"\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Quiz john", "response": "You ask John a question about rationalization. \"Wait, I know that! I know that!\" exclaims John. He grits his teeth and closes his eyes in concentration. \"No, wait, I forgot! I forgot!\"\n\nJohn can't help but stare at the TV for a few seconds, mesmerized by the colorful patterns on the screen.\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of poker with Carl.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the sofa", "response": "That's a job for one braver than you.\n\nJohn squirms in his seat, trying to concentrate.\n\nAlice looks outside wistfully. \"You know, Carl and I would be outta here now...but we don't have enough money for a proper dinner--not these sad snacks that we have--for both of us. Oh, I have enough for just me, but...\" She looks at Carl, who has a mournful look on his face. \"...but, I can't be that cruel, can I?\"\n\nYou hear a violent gust of wind blow into John's bedroom, causing the door to slam closed. John, startled by the noise, looks around confusedly. \"Um, could you go in my room and close my window, please?\" he asks you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the sofa", "response": "That's a job for one braver than you.\n\nJohn hits his forehead with his hands, muttering, \"Think! Think!\" It doesn't seem to be working.\n\nAlice looks outside wistfully. \"You know, Carl and I would be outta here now...but we don't have enough money for a proper dinner--not these sad snacks that we have--for both of us. Oh, I have enough for just me, but...\" She looks at Carl, who has a mournful look on his face. \"...but, I can't be that cruel, can I?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the tape to the towel", "response": "I don't know how to attach the piece of duct tape.\n\nJohn hits his forehead with his hands, muttering, \"Think! Think!\" It doesn't seem to be working.\n\nCarl takes out a candy bar, strips the cellophane off of it, crumples it into a neat, compact ball, and tosses it absent-mindedly in the direction of the kitchen. It lands squarely in the kitchen sink.\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of gin rummy with Carl.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "Which table do you mean, the mahogany table, or John's desk?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the mahogany", "response": "This table, with its meticulously polished and dustless surface, was your 20th birthday present. Catching a glimpse of your own reflection against the fine wood grain pattern, you remember why this table has always had a special place in your heart. Currently you see on the table a porcelain vase.\n\nJohn can't help but stare at the TV for a few seconds, mesmerized by the colorful patterns on the screen.\n\nYou hear some banging on the walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the vase", "response": "There's nothing in the vase.\n\nDistracted by all of the noise, John momentarily loses his concentration and starts muttering something barely comprehensible about Bob riding his skateboard into the kitchen sink.\n\n\"C'mon, John,\" urges Alice, \"take a break, have some fun with us! You can always take more tests next semester!\"\n\nYou hear some banging on the walls.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "This is John's \"studying\" desk, which he bought a few days ago. (He would have used the desk in his room, but he claimed, \"I need a fresh start in studying.\" Actually, he found his desk was glued to the floor and thought it would be faster to buy a new one.) On the table you see John's psychology book; other than that you see nothing at all.\n\nJohn squirms in his seat, trying to concentrate.\n\nAlice looks outside wistfully. \"You know, Carl and I would be outta here now...but we don't have enough money for a proper dinner--not these sad snacks that we have--for both of us. Oh, I have enough for just me, but...\" She looks at Carl, who has a mournful look on his face. \"...but, I can't be that cruel, can I?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search them", "response": "pile of newspaper and cans: The thought of sticking your bare hands into that filth disgusts you.\n\nJohn squirms in his seat, trying to concentrate.\n\nAlice reminisces about a really good tuna fish sandwich she once had.\n\nYou hear lots of drunken singing from somewhere else in the apartment.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "When you moved into this apartment, the kitchen was a horrendous\nmess. Because you've agreed to let John maintain the kitchen while you maintain the bathroom, it still is; the stove is encrusted with the pathetic results of previous meals, the refrigerator is in sore need of a wipedown, and the kitchen sink as usual is filled with mostly useless items (such as, for example, John's skateboard). A kitchen table sits in the center of the room. The living room is to the east.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for canasta.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"\n\nEvan follows you into the kitchen, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sink", "response": "This, as you probably surmised, is the kitchen sink. At the moment it is fairly filthy, thanks to John's recent diligent efforts at *not* scrubbing it. Under the sink is a cabinet in which the kitchen plumbing can be accessed. In the kitchen sink there are broken dishes; other than that, you see a skateboard and a piece of cellophane.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine table", "response": "Scars and stains mar the appearance of this otherwise fine kitchen table. The most recent addition to the marks on the table is a set of long, parallel lines, not unlike skid marks, which point in the general direction of the kitchen sink. Other than these marks, you see on the table a pastel blue box.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"American Pie\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the box", "response": "The box of chocolates was intended to be a birthday present from your mother. Unfortunately, John, mistaking anything with a molecular structure to be his, has already opened the box and ravaged its contents: there is only a bare fraction of the hundred chocolates that used to be inside. There is a torn label on the side of box. In the box you see a square dark chocolate, a square light chocolate, a round dark chocolate, a round light chocolate, a shell-shaped dark chocolate, a shell-shaped light chocolate, a triangular dark chocolate, a triangular light chocolate, a hexagonal dark chocolate, a hexagonal light chocolate, and a torn card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the card", "response": "The torn card is missing the brand name of the chocolates, but the ingredients list is still readable.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"Y.M.C.A.\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nYou hear lots of drunken singing from somewhere else in the apartment.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the card", "response": "The card emphasizes the variety of fillings used to make these chocolates. In the ingredients list, you note that the chocolates are filled with caramel, coconut, marzipan, peanuts, almonds, pecans, cherry liqueur, marshmallow, fudge, and mint.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the box", "response": "Taken.\n\nBob staggers into the kitchen, looking incredibly dazed.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get all from the sink", "response": "skateboard: Taken.\npiece of cellophane: Taken.\n\nBob staggers off to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "Opening the refrigerator reveals a beer can and some raw cookie dough.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the beer can", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the cookie dough", "response": "You've already got your hands full.\n\nYou hear a violent gust of wind from the direction of John's bedroom, and then a loud \"BANG!\"\n\nBob staggers into the kitchen, looking incredibly dazed.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at it", "response": "This is a baseball-sized lump of raw cookie dough, a favorite food of John's. It's grown a little stale and moldy since it last saw the light of day but still retains a bit of elasticity and stickiness.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing some country song along with the radio, and doing it badly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drop box", "response": "Dropped.\n\nBob, thinking that he's walking in a straight line, toes a path more akin to the outline of a Picasso painting than anything else.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the dough", "response": "Taken.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for poker.\n\nIn a loud voice, Bob brags about crushing a bunch of plastic models on John's table.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently on.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a radio and a crumpled paper here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\n\"I think I remember hearing somewhere that fish is good for you,\" says Alice.\n\nBob staggers into the living room, looking incredibly dazed.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing some country song along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "his stuff, though for the most part you don't take advantage of this. Like your room, John's room has a bed, dresser, desk, and an open closet door to the east. Unlike your room, it is quite disorganized, to say the least. Sheets are spread all over the room and clothes, as well as less-speakable debris, are strewn about, giving the room a ripe, musty odor not unlike rotting fruit in an ancient tomb; broken plastic models litter the scarred desk. Set in the north wall is a closed window to the outside world. There is a (fortunately) open door to the south.\nYou see a wastebasket here.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nEvan follows you into John's bedroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put dough in the hole", "response": "You stick the cookie dough in the hole. It fits quite nicely.\nWorking the edges with your hands, you quickly form an efficient seal which should keep the wind out.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see Bob, staggering around, like the slightest hint of alcohol\nin the air will send him crashing to the ground here.\n\nIn a loud voice, Bob brags about riding John's skateboard into the kitchen sink.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently on.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a radio and a crumpled paper here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\nJohn tries to write some notes on a piece of paper, messes up, and, in a fit of frustration, crumples up the paper and throws it to the floor.\n\nAlice takes out a bag of carob-covered malt balls, empties the contents into her hands, and chucks the empty bag off John's desk, onto the floor.\n\nAlice and Carl, needing to stretch their legs, get up and dance the tango for a little while.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the newspapers", "response": "With the catcher's mitt on your hand, you confidently wade through the junk pile without fear of contamination. Your efforts are rewarded, as you unearth the lost television remote control!\n\nJohn hits his forehead with his hands, muttering, \"Think! Think!\" It doesn't seem to be working.\n\nAlice and Carl, needing to stretch their legs, get up and dance the Charleston for a little while.\n\nBob, thinking that he's walking in a straight line, toes a path more akin to the outline of a Picasso painting than anything else.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the control", "response": "You already have the remote control!\n\nJohn tries to write some notes on a piece of paper, messes up, and, in a fit of frustration, crumples up the paper and throws it to the floor.\n\nAlice takes out a bag of potato chips, empties the contents into her hands, and chucks the empty bag into the hallway.\n\nAlice and Carl, needing to stretch their legs, get up and dance the rumba for a little while.\n\nBob staggers off to the west.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove mitt", "response": "Okay, you're no longer wearing the catcher's mitt.\n\n\"Rationalization, displacement, displacement, displacement!\" John recites desperately.\n\n\"This feels like the perfect night for fish and chips,\" says Alice.\n\nYou hear lots of drunken singing from somewhere else in the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the tv", "response": "With a profound sigh of relief, you press the power button and end the television's reign of terror upon your brain.\n\nAlice reminisces about a really good tuna fish sandwich she once had.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "When you moved into this apartment, the kitchen was a horrendous\nmess. Because you've agreed to let John maintain the kitchen while you maintain the bathroom, it still is; the stove is encrusted with the pathetic results of previous meals, the refrigerator is in sore need of a wipedown, and the kitchen sink as usual is filled with mostly useless items. A kitchen table sits in the center of the room. The living room is to the east.\nYou see a pastel blue box and Bob, staggering around, like the slightest hint of alcohol in the air will send him crashing to the ground here. The pastel blue box seems to contain a square dark chocolate, a square light chocolate, a round dark chocolate, a round light chocolate, a shell-shaped dark chocolate, a shell-shaped light chocolate, a triangular dark chocolate, a triangular light chocolate, a hexagonal dark chocolate, a hexagonal light chocolate, and a torn card.\n\nBob staggers off to the east.\n\nEvan follows you into the kitchen, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently off.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a radio, three crumpled papers, a snack food bag, and Bob, staggering around, like the slightest hint of alcohol in the air will send him crashing to the ground here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\nJohn hits his forehead with his hands, muttering, \"Think! Think!\" It doesn't seem to be working.\n\nCarl takes out a candy bar, strips the cellophane off of it, crumples it into a neat, compact ball, and tosses it absent-mindedly in the direction of the kitchen. The cellophane bounces off the refrigerator, and skims the edge of the kitchen sink. Just as it looks as if it would go in, it falls to the floor.\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of whist with Carl.\n\nBob, thinking that he's walking in a straight line, toes a path more akin to the outline of a Picasso painting than anything else.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the beer to Bob", "response": "Bob eagerly snatches the can from your hands. The moment he raises it to his lips he gags violently. \"Whadzz thizz?\" he moans. \"Milk! No good!\" He tosses the can back to you.\n\nAlice takes out a bag of potato chips, empties the contents into her hands, and chucks the empty bag into the hallway.\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of baccarat with Carl.\n\nIn a loud voice, Bob brags about banging his head against the wall fifty-seven times without going unconscious.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the can", "response": "This is an open beer can, probably being saved by John for a rainy (or dry) day. It's almost full.\n\n\"Repression, projection, sublimation, projection!\" John recites desperately.\n\nCarl takes out a candy bar, strips the cellophane off of it, crumples it into a neat, compact ball, and tosses it absent-mindedly in the direction of the kitchen. The cellophane bounces off the refrigerator, and skims the edge of the kitchen sink. Just as it looks as if it would go in, it falls to the floor.\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of bridge with Carl.\n\nBob staggers off to the east.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the can", "response": "There is still some milk in the can.\n\nJohn grits his teeth and grinds a pencil down to a stub.\n\nCarl takes out a candy bar, strips the cellophane off of it, crumples it into a neat, compact ball, and tosses it absent-mindedly in the direction of the TV. It bounces forlornly off and rolls into the center of the living room.\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of baccarat with Carl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "When you moved into this apartment, the kitchen was a horrendous\nmess. Because you've agreed to let John maintain the kitchen while you maintain the bathroom, it still is; the stove is encrusted with the pathetic results of previous meals, the refrigerator is in sore need of a wipedown, and the kitchen sink as usual is filled with mostly useless items. A kitchen table sits in the center of the room. The living room is to the east.\nYou see a pastel blue box and two piece of cellophanes here. The pastel blue box seems to contain a square dark chocolate, a square light chocolate, a round dark chocolate, a round light chocolate, a shell-shaped dark chocolate, a shell-shaped light chocolate, a triangular dark chocolate, a triangular light chocolate, a hexagonal dark chocolate, a hexagonal light chocolate, and a torn card.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for shogi.\n\nEvan follows you into the kitchen, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the box", "response": "You've already got your hands full.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the card", "response": "The torn card is missing the brand name of the chocolates, but the ingredients list is still readable.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read it", "response": "The card emphasizes the variety of fillings used to make these chocolates. In the ingredients list, you note that the chocolates are filled with caramel, coconut, marzipan, peanuts, almonds, pecans, cherry liqueur, marshmallow, fudge, and mint.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You have two piece of cellophanes, a blue wrapper, a catcher's mitt, a piece of duct tape, a pink towel, a crumpled paper, a skateboard, a beer can, and a remote control.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"Love Shack\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the remote", "response": "Dropped.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the box", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nYou hear a loud \"Pin pon!\" come from the game. Evan grins maniacally.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put tape on the game", "response": "You place the duct tape on the speaker.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the round", "response": "Which round do you mean, the round dark chocolate, or the round light chocolate?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at round dark", "response": "It looks like an ordinary round dark chocolate to me.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat it", "response": "John's hands have probably been all over this chocolate. This alone convinces you not to eat it.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the box", "response": "You already have the pastel blue box!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently off.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a radio, three crumpled papers, a snack food bag, and a\npiece of cellophane here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\nJohn squirms in his seat, trying to concentrate.\n\nAlice and Carl, needing to stretch their legs, get up and dance the tango for a little while.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags here.\n\nYou hear some banging on the walls.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "his stuff, though for the most part you don't take advantage of this. Like your room, John's room has a bed, dresser, desk, and an open closet door to the east. Unlike your room, it is quite disorganized, to say the least. Sheets are spread all over the room and clothes, as well as less-speakable debris, are strewn about, giving the room a ripe, musty odor not unlike rotting fruit in an ancient tomb; broken plastic models litter the scarred desk. Set in the north wall is a closed window to the outside world. There is a (fortunately) open door to the south.\nYou see a wastebasket here. The window seems to contain some raw cookie dough.\n\nEvan follows you into John's bedroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The bathroom, fortunately, is one of the rooms you've agreed to maintain, and as a result it isn't too filthy. Against the north wall is a gleaming sink and a mirror mounted above it; next to the mirror is a medicine cabinet. On the south wall is a towel rack. A toilet and shower, both scrubbed to exquisite perfection with lye-based cleansers, complete this traditional bathroom. The only exit to this bathroom is through a door to the west, which is open.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for mah jongg.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by some energetic banging on the walls.\n\nEvan follows you into the bathroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags here.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nYou hear some banging on the walls.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently off.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a radio, three crumpled papers, a snack food bag, and a\npiece of cellophane here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\nDistracted by all of the noise, John momentarily loses his concentration and starts muttering about his need to get more duct tape to fix the broken models on his desk.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the tape to John", "response": "You're not carrying the piece of duct tape.\n\n\"Displacement, rationalization, projection, repression!\" John recites desperately.\n\n\"This feels like the perfect night for fish and chips,\" says Alice.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "When you moved into this apartment, the kitchen was a horrendous\nmess. Because you've agreed to let John maintain the kitchen while you maintain the bathroom, it still is; the stove is encrusted with the pathetic results of previous meals, the refrigerator is in sore need of a wipedown, and the kitchen sink as usual is filled with mostly useless items. A kitchen table sits in the center of the room. The living room is to the east.\nYou see two piece of cellophanes and a remote control here.\n\nEvan follows you into the kitchen, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently off.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a radio, three crumpled papers, a snack food bag, and a\npiece of cellophane here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\nJohn squirms in his seat, trying to concentrate.\n\n\"So, John,\" says Alice, \"how're you doing hitting those books? Real swell?\" John mumbles something uncomfortably and tries to continue studying.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags here.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by some energetic banging on the walls.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is your bedroom, for which you can be proud. Mostly bare,\nsince many of your possessions are out for dry cleaning, the room looks neater than ever. Your bed, sitting in one corner, is immaculately made, and your desk, placed against the northern wall, has a clear surface which reveals its mirror-shine polish. A fine mahogany dresser sits against the south wall, and a mirror sits atop it. There is an open door to the north and an open closet door to the east.\nYou see a swivel chair here.\n\nEvan follows you into your bedroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dresser", "response": "This is a dresser made of fine mahogany wood. The surface is dust-free and so shiny you could comb your hair by your reflection in the wood. The drawers are closed.\n\nYou see Bob stagger in from the door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the chocolate to Bob", "response": "Which chocolate do you mean, the blue wrapper, the pastel blue box, the square dark chocolate, the square light chocolate, the round dark chocolate, the round light chocolate, the shell-shaped dark chocolate, the shell-shaped light chocolate, the triangular dark chocolate, the triangular light chocolate, the hexagonal dark chocolate, or the hexagonal light chocolate?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Square", "response": "Let's try it again: Which chocolate do you mean, the square dark chocolate, or the square light chocolate?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dark", "response": "Bob snarfs down the chocolate, and then gags violently. \"Marzipan!\" he exclaims. \"I hade marzipan!\" He teeters unsteadily in his drunken rage. \"If...if you gib me another chocolid filled with something I don' like, I'll...I... I...won't take any more chocolidzz from you!\"\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for checkers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the square to Bob", "response": "Bob eats the chocolate, but is livid when he finds out it's filled with mint. He looks pretty angry now, and rambles about not liking \"mint\" and says he'll never accept chocolate from you again, and probably no one else in the world as well, as his trust was betrayed, and so forth.\n\nBob staggers through the door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dark", "response": "It smells just like you expect a square dark chocolate to smell.\n\nBob tries to go through a wall. His head rebounds violently off the hard plaster surface. \"Thangs,\" he says dazedly, \"I needed datd.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the square dark to Evan", "response": "Evan is too involved in beating the trivia game to notice your offer, which probably wouldn't have seemed too attractive to him anyhow.\n\nIn a loud voice, Bob brags about drinking his weight in beer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You read the card", "response": "Dimly illuminated, this closet provides you with an impenetrable defense against outside noise. The door, which is to the west and open, is steel-reinforced and soundproof, preventing even the loudest party sounds from getting through. Though the closet is small, it is roomy enough for you and several of your favorite textbooks, and you've studied for many an exam here.\nYou see a toolbox here.\n\nYou see Bob stagger in from the door to the west.\n\nEvan follows you into your closet, still playing the game.\n\nThe card emphasizes the variety of fillings used to make these chocolates. In the ingredients list, you note that the chocolates are filled with caramel, coconut, marzipan, peanuts, almonds, pecans, cherry liqueur, marshmallow, fudge, and mint.\n\nBob tries to go through a wall. His head rebounds violently off the hard plaster surface. \"Thang you sir, may I hab uhnudder?\" he says humbly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the toolbox", "response": "This toolbox holds most of your favorite tools. Unfortunately many of them have been \"borrowed\" by John. In the toolbox you see a wrench.\n\nBob tries to think of some drinking songs he knows and sing them. He has no sense of pitch, but that unfortunately doesn't keep him from trying.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the wrench", "response": "Taken.\n\nBob staggers through the door to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is your bedroom, for which you can be proud. Mostly bare,\nsince many of your possessions are out for dry cleaning, the room looks neater than ever. Your bed, sitting in one corner, is immaculately made, and your desk, placed against the northern wall, has a clear surface which reveals its mirror-shine polish. A fine mahogany dresser sits against the south wall, and a mirror sits atop it. There is an open door to the north and an open closet door to the east.\nYou see a swivel chair and Bob, staggering around, like the\nslightest hint of alcohol in the air will send him crashing to the ground here.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for gin rummy.\n\nEvan follows you into your bedroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the desk", "response": "This is your mahogany desk, a gift to you on your fifteenth birthday. You've spent many a long hour studying at this desk, and many more polishing it. Even now, as you look at it, you get the urge to wipe off a few molecules of dust from its surface with your sleeve, but you resist, as you would get your shirt dirty. There is a drawer on the front of the desk which is closed.\n\nBob staggers through the door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Opened.\n\nYou hear some banging on the walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "The desk drawer is open. There's nothing in the desk drawer.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by some energetic banging on the walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the closet", "response": "You see the interior of the closet through the open door, but you'll have to go inside to get a better look at what's there.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "You can't go that way.\n\nYou hear some banging on the walls.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the closet", "response": "I don't know how to enter your closet door.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by some energetic banging on the walls.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "This is your bedroom, for which you can be proud. Mostly bare,\nsince many of your possessions are out for dry cleaning, the room looks neater than ever. Your bed, sitting in one corner, is immaculately made, and your desk, placed against the northern wall, has a clear surface which reveals its mirror-shine polish. A fine mahogany dresser sits against the south wall, and a mirror sits atop it. There is an open door to the north and an open closet door to the east.\nYou see a swivel chair here.\nEvan is here, playing an electronic trivia game.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for poker.\n\nYou see Bob stagger in from the door to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Evan about the chocolate", "response": "Evan blithely continues playing even as you ask him a question. Perhaps if you took that game from him, he'd pay attention...\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for Monopoly.\n\nBob stares at the mirror and, with all the machismo possible from a drunken sot, brags about some sports exploit of his. Unfortunately it involves terms you are unfamiliar with, and that you suspect are totally made up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the game", "response": "You yank the game out of Evan's hands. In the process Evan's fingers brush against the game's on/off switch, turning the game off. Evan looks extremely surprised and perturbed.\n\nGoing into deep financial detail, Evan gives a discourse on the rise and fall of Infocom, Inc. He also mentions how much he liked that little robot Floyd.\n\nBob staggers through the door to the north.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Evan about Floyd", "response": "\"Ah, 'floyd', now that's an interesting word,\" says Evan. \"Let me tell you about its etymology...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Evan about the chocolate", "response": "\"Hmmm,\" says Evan. \"I'm well versed in the ways of chocolate and their contents--I've never been stuck with a coconut-filled chocolate myself. However, I can't tell you much unless I know what brand this chocolate is.\"\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nEvan wonders what the world would be like if Fermat had a lot more space in his margins.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine torn", "response": "The torn card is missing the brand name of the chocolates, but the ingredients list is still readable.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for canasta.\n\nEvan talks about Napoleon's use of artillery at Waterloo.\n\nThe sound of a tremendous belch rocks the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine box", "response": "The box of chocolates was intended to be a birthday present from your mother. Unfortunately, John, mistaking anything with a molecular structure to be his, has already opened the box and ravaged its contents: there is only a bare fraction of the hundred chocolates that used to be inside. There is a torn label on the side of box. In the box you see a square dark chocolate, a square light chocolate, a round dark chocolate, a round light chocolate, a shell-shaped dark chocolate, a shell-shaped light chocolate, a triangular dark chocolate, a triangular light chocolate, a hexagonal dark chocolate, a hexagonal light chocolate, and a torn card.\n\nEvan gives an impromptu talk about Brazil in the (hypothetical) 2030's.\n\nYou hear lots of drunken singing from somewhere else in the apartment.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine wrapper", "response": "This looks like a wrapper for some sort of box. It's pastel blue, with a paisley pattern tastefully silkscreened on. A small gold seal, mostly intact, has the logo for \"Dee's Chocolates\" on it.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for Monopoly.\n\nEvan gives an impromptu talk about the differences between the Meiji and postwar constitutions of Japan.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the wrapper to Evan", "response": "Evan starts talking about the blue wrapper's history and forgets to even consider whether to accept your offer or not.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for checkers.\n\nEvan speculates about the recipe for Greek fire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You show the wrapper to Evan", "response": "\"Ah, how interesting,\" says Evan. \"The wrapper for a box of Dee's chocolates. Serial number 4888602, had a very specific combination of shapes and fillings. Hmmm...let's see if I remember... hexagonal dark chocolates were filled with peanuts, hexagonal light chocolates were filled with mint, triangular light chocolates were filled with pecans, triangular dark chocolates were filled with cherry liqueur, shell-shaped light chocolates were filled with marshmallow, shell-shaped dark chocolates were filled with caramel, round light chocolates were filled with fudge, round dark chocolates were filled with coconut, square light chocolates were filled with almonds, and square dark chocolates were filled with marzipan.\"\n\nEvan makes a few remarks about the possibility of steam saving the world.\n\nYou hear a sharp BUMP! followed by a plaintive, \"Who pud this wall here *hic*.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Dimly illuminated, this closet provides you with an impenetrable defense against outside noise. The door, which is to the west and open, is steel-reinforced and soundproof, preventing even the loudest party sounds from getting through. Though the closet is small, it is roomy enough for you and several of your favorite textbooks, and you've studied for many an exam here.\nYou see a toolbox here.\n\nEvan follows you into your closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is your bedroom, for which you can be proud. Mostly bare,\nsince many of your possessions are out for dry cleaning, the room looks neater than ever. Your bed, sitting in one corner, is immaculately made, and your desk, placed against the northern wall, has a clear surface which reveals its mirror-shine polish. A fine mahogany dresser sits against the south wall, and a mirror sits atop it. There is an open door to the north and an open closet door to the east.\nYou see a swivel chair here.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for go.\n\nEvan follows you into your bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags and Bob, staggering around, like the slightest hint of alcohol in the air will send him crashing to the ground here.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for gin rummy.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall.\n\nIn a loud voice, Bob brags about banging his head against the wall fifty-seven times without going unconscious.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the triangular dark chocolate to Bob", "response": "Bob eats the chocolate. \"Mmmm!\" he exclaims ecstatically. \"Cherry! My favorite...\" Suddenly, Bob shakes his head once. Then twice. His eyes cross, his body stiffens, then relaxes. Finally, with only the hint of a belch on his lips, Bob gently settles his considerable bulk onto the floor.\n\n\"I believe,\" says Evan, \"that a philosopher once said, 'Money isn't everything, but it sure is a lot.'\"\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Bob", "response": "He's pretty heavy, but carryable. You sling him over your shoulder.\n\n\"I believe,\" says Evan, \"that a philosopher once said, 'There is only one fate worse than death, and that is not having a life.'\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "his stuff, though for the most part you don't take advantage of this. Like your room, John's room has a bed, dresser, desk, and an open closet door to the east. Unlike your room, it is quite disorganized, to say the least. Sheets are spread all over the room and clothes, as well as less-speakable debris, are strewn about, giving the room a ripe, musty odor not unlike rotting fruit in an ancient tomb; broken plastic models litter the scarred desk. Set in the north wall is a closed window to the outside world. There is a (fortunately) open door to the south.\nYou see a wastebasket here. The window seems to contain some raw cookie dough.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for canasta.\n\nEvan follows you into John's bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "This is John's closet. There are no skeletons hiding here, but considering the amount of dust and dirty clothes around, you would hardly be surprised if one of the undead were lurking around in this dimly lit space. The one exit is a door to the west, which is open.\n\nEvan follows you into John's closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sleepwalk east", "response": "\"Ah, 'sleepwalk', now that's an interesting word,\" says Evan. \"Let me tell you about its etymology...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You have two piece of cellophanes, a blue wrapper, a catcher's mitt, a pink towel, a crumpled paper, a skateboard, a beer can, a pastel blue box, a wrench, and a handheld electronic trivia game. The pastel blue box seems to contain a square dark chocolate, a square light chocolate, a round dark chocolate, a round light chocolate, a shell-shaped dark chocolate, a shell-shaped light chocolate, a triangular light chocolate, a hexagonal dark chocolate, a hexagonal light chocolate, and a torn card. The speaker seems to contain a piece of duct tape.\n\n\"I believe,\" says Evan, \"that a philosopher once said, 'There is only one fate worse than death, and that is not having a life.'\"\n\nFrom elsewhere in the apartment, you hear Bob's snores shaking the foundations of the earth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "his stuff, though for the most part you don't take advantage of this. Like your room, John's room has a bed, dresser, desk, and an open closet door to the east. Unlike your room, it is quite disorganized, to say the least. Sheets are spread all over the room and clothes, as well as less-speakable debris, are strewn about, giving the room a ripe, musty odor not unlike rotting fruit in an ancient tomb; broken plastic models litter the scarred desk. Set in the north wall is a closed window to the outside world. There is a (fortunately) open door to the south.\nYou see a wastebasket here. The window seems to contain some raw cookie dough.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for go.\n\nEvan follows you into John's bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags and Bob, lying quite unconscious here.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for Parchesi.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall.\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Bob", "response": "He's pretty heavy, but carryable. You sling him over your shoulder.\n\nEvan speculates about the recipe for the secret sauce on a Big Mac.\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "You have two piece of cellophanes, a blue wrapper, a catcher's mitt, a pink towel, a crumpled paper, a skateboard, a beer can, a pastel blue box, a wrench, and a handheld electronic trivia game. The pastel blue box seems to contain a square dark chocolate, a square light chocolate, a round dark chocolate, a round light chocolate, a shell-shaped dark chocolate, a shell-shaped light chocolate, a triangular light chocolate, a hexagonal dark chocolate, a hexagonal light chocolate, and a torn card. The speaker seems to contain a piece of duct tape.\n\nEvan gives a short speech about what's wrong with a recent popular movie and how he would change things.\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Bob", "response": "He's pretty heavy, but carryable. You sling him over your shoulder.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\n\"I've always wondered what life would be like if it were exactly like a text adventure game,\" says Evan. \"I'm not sure I'd like it. For example, everyone you knew would just be mindless, finite-state automatons who do the same thing over and over again.\"\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get Bob", "response": "He's pretty heavy, but carryable. You sling him over your shoulder.\n\n\"I believe,\" says Evan, \"that a philosopher once said, 'Man is not alone in the universe. There are women too.'\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags and Bob, lying quite unconscious here. Evan is here, expounding upon some obscure piece of trivia.\n\nEvan gives an impromptu talk about the differences between the Meiji and postwar constitutions of Japan.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is your bedroom, for which you can be proud. Mostly bare,\nsince many of your possessions are out for dry cleaning, the room looks neater than ever. Your bed, sitting in one corner, is immaculately made, and your desk, placed against the northern wall, has a clear surface which reveals its mirror-shine polish. A fine mahogany dresser sits against the south wall, and a mirror sits atop it. There is an open door to the north and an open closet door to the east.\nYou see a swivel chair here.\n\nEvan follows you into your bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Dimly illuminated, this closet provides you with an impenetrable defense against outside noise. The door, which is to the west and open, is steel-reinforced and soundproof, preventing even the loudest party sounds from getting through. Though the closet is small, it is roomy enough for you and several of your favorite textbooks, and you've studied for many an exam here.\nYou see a toolbox here.\n\nEvan follows you into your closet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "(I don't see any toolbox here.)\n\nYou can't go that way.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for chess.\n\nEvan speculates about the recipe for Coca-Cola.\n\nFrom elsewhere in the apartment, you hear Bob's snores shaking the foundations of the earth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put Bob on the chair", "response": "Done.\n\n\"I've always wondered what life would be like if it were exactly like a text adventure game,\" says Evan. \"I'm not sure I'd like it. For example, everyone you knew would just be mindless, finite-state automatons who do the same thing over and over again.\"\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags and a swivel chair here.\nEvan is here, expounding upon some obscure piece of trivia.\n\nEvan wonders what the world would be like if everyone walked on the ceiling.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Bob", "response": "Bob, alleged star athlete on the school's basket weaving team (Australian rules), is rather crude, rude, perpetually inebriated, and more than a bit ditzy. Unfortunately, that's his good side. He's looking a little better than usual today, though, having recently pulled through a savage bout with scurvy, but fortunately (from Bob's point of view), you don't need teeth to drink beer. At the moment he's thoroughly passed out.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nEvan gives a short speech about what's wrong with mass transit and how he would change things.\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "This is your bedroom, for which you can be proud. Mostly bare,\nsince many of your possessions are out for dry cleaning, the room looks neater than ever. Your bed, sitting in one corner, is immaculately made, and your desk, placed against the northern wall, has a clear surface which reveals its mirror-shine polish. A fine mahogany dresser sits against the south wall, and a mirror sits atop it. There is an open door to the north and an open closet door to the east.\n\nEvan follows you into your bedroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "Which door do you mean, your closet door, or your bedroom door?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Closet", "response": "Closed.\n\nEvan gives an impromptu talk about Brazil in the (hypothetical) 2030's.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the wrench", "response": "A large wrench, made of titanium. This was a beloved 16th birthday present from your parents.\n\nEvan makes a few remarks about the possibility of steam saving the world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for Parchesi.\n\nEvan makes a few remarks about the possibility of steam saving the world.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes...\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"Send in the Clowns\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nEvan gives an impromptu talk about life.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags here.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing some pop song along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently off.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a radio, three crumpled papers, a snack food bag, and a\npiece of cellophane here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\nDistracted by all of the noise, John momentarily loses his concentration and starts muttering something about losing an electronic game on his desk.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the game", "response": "Small, orange, and plastic, this electronic game was given to John for his birthday. John, having a limited attention span at best, quickly abandoned this gift before he could get through its alleged \"20,000 Questions!\" The case sports an LCD screen and a small speaker. There are also four buttons, colored red, yellow, green, and blue, lined up vertically to the left of the screen, next to where the possible answers to the game's questions will be displayed. The game is currently off.\n\nJohn wails to you, \"Could you help quiz me? Please?\"\n\n\"So, John,\" says Alice, \"how're you doing hitting those books? Real swell?\" John mumbles something uncomfortably and tries to continue studying.\n\nEvan wonders what the world would be like if it were love, not money, that made the world go round.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put tape on the speaker", "response": "You place the duct tape on the speaker.\n\n\"Rationalization, sublimation, displacement, rationalization!\" John recites desperately.\n\nCarl takes out a candy bar, strips the cellophane off of it, crumples it into a neat, compact ball, and tosses it absent-mindedly in the direction of the kitchen. The cellophane bounces off the refrigerator, and skims the edge of the kitchen sink. Just as it looks as if it would go in, it falls to the floor.\n\nAlice and Carl, needing to stretch their legs, get up and dance the minuet for a little while.\n\n\"I've always wondered what life would be like if it were exactly like a text adventure game,\" says Evan. \"I'm not sure I'd like it. For example, everything you did would take exactly one minute to do no matter what it was.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the game to Evan", "response": "\"Geez, about time you finished with that,\" says Evan irritably as he takes the game from you again.\n\nJohn wails to you, \"Could you help quiz me? Please?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Quiz john", "response": "You ask John a question about repression. \"Wait, I know that! I know that!\" exclaims John. He grits his teeth and closes his eyes in concentration. \"No, wait, I forgot! I forgot!\"\n\nJohn tries to write some notes on a piece of paper, messes up, and, in a fit of frustration, crumples up the paper and throws it to the floor.\n\nAlice reminisces about a really good tuna fish sandwich she once had.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags here.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for Monopoly.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "This is your bedroom, for which you can be proud. Mostly bare,\nsince many of your possessions are out for dry cleaning, the room looks neater than ever. Your bed, sitting in one corner, is immaculately made, and your desk, placed against the northern wall, has a clear surface which reveals its mirror-shine polish. A fine mahogany dresser sits against the south wall, and a mirror sits atop it. There is an open door to the north and a closed closet door to the east.\n\nEvan follows you into your bedroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "This is your mahogany desk, a gift to you on your fifteenth birthday. You've spent many a long hour studying at this desk, and many more polishing it. Even now, as you look at it, you get the urge to wipe off a few molecules of dust from its surface with your sleeve, but you resist, as you would get your shirt dirty. There is a drawer on the front of the desk which is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the drawer", "response": "The desk drawer is open. There's nothing in the desk drawer.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dresser", "response": "This is a dresser made of fine mahogany wood. The surface is dust-free and so shiny you could comb your hair by your reflection in the wood. The drawers are closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the dresser", "response": "Opened.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"Y.M.C.A.\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in it", "response": "There's nothing in the mahogany dresser.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for Monopoly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "You polish this mirror twice a day. If it doesn't look good, you don't look good.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bed", "response": "This is your bed, which you are very proud of. You spend at least half an hour every day making it, smoothing out the folds, ensuring that the sheets are perfectly balanced and symmetrical on both sides. On the bed you see nothing at all.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the bed", "response": "There's nothing under your bed, not even those slavering, gnawing, hungry monsters you used to hear at night...You recoil from the bed, sweating profusely.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags here.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the bed", "response": "You take a quick peek under John's bed. Other than dust and other assorted debris, you don't see anything, particularly anything he \"borrowed\" from you in recent months. Drat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the clothes", "response": "Various articles of clothing and underwear are scattered around the room. It's hard to move around without stepping on one.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the desk", "response": "The decrepit state of John's desk bespeaks both a ripe old age as well as years of misuse; its surface bears many jagged scars and scorch marks. Otherwise, the desk looks surprising clean (for a possession of John's), mainly because most of the junk that normally occupies its surface has been swept onto the floor or into the closet. There is a single drawer on the desk, which is closed. On the desk you see some broken plastic models; besides that, you see nothing at all.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for Parchesi.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Search clothes", "response": "You find nothing of interest.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for go.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the drawer", "response": "Opening the desk drawer reveals a coupon book.\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for poker.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the coupon", "response": "Which coupon do you mean, the Captain Barnacle's Seafood House coupon, the Nekohanten coupon, or the Chez Merde coupon?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Seafood", "response": "You've already got your hands full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Drop box", "response": "Dropped.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the seafood", "response": "Taken.\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "This coupon entitles the bearer to two All-You-Can-Eat Crustacean Platters for the price of one. The coupon enthusiastically describes this dish as \"More Shrimp Than You DESERVE!\"\n\nThe sound of crumpling cellophane, grating your ears, comes in from the direction of the living room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine merde", "response": "By presenting this coupon to the matre'd at any Chez Merde, you can get two Super Escargot, Fantastic Frog Legs (with French fries, no less), or Spectacular Souffle plates for the price of one. (10% off more if you don't try to order using your high-school French.)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the Nekohanten", "response": "This coupon, for the local Chinese restaurant Nekohanten, reduces the prices on any dish in the \"B\" category to 55 cents each. The coupon also promises \"Half the MSG of our nearest competitor!\"\n\nYou hear a loud and raucous argument in the living room about the rules for mah jongg.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the south", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see two snack food bags here.\n\nFrom the direction of the living room, you hear Alice trying to sing \"American Pie\" along with the radio, and doing it badly.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently off.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see a radio, four crumpled papers, a snack food bag, and a\npiece of cellophane here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\nAlice is here, looking a bit bored.\nCarl is here, entertaining himself in his usual banal manner.\n\nJohn hits his forehead with his hands, muttering, \"Think! Think!\" It doesn't seem to be working.\n\n\"C'mon, John,\" urges Alice, \"take a break, have some fun with us! You can always take more tests next semester!\"\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the seafood to Alice", "response": "\"Why thanks,\" says Alice, grinning. \"I was just thinking of dinner at this place. Looks like I can afford it now.\" She gets up, and Carl follows suit. You heart leaps at the thought that she's going to be clearing out of here...\n\n\"Ah, but it's *so* cold outside tonight,\" says Alice, seating herself on the floor again. \"Positively freezing. And look at how I'm dressed!\" You don't have much of an opinion of Alice's tastes in clothes, but admittedly, she does look a bit chilly. \"We can't well go out and get pneumonia, can we? You wouldn't want that on your conscience, would you...?\"\n\nDistracted by all of the noise, John momentarily loses his concentration and starts muttering something about losing an electronic game on his desk.\n\nAlice takes out a bag of potato chips, empties the contents into her hands, and chucks the empty bag into the hallway.\n\nAlice breaks out a pack of cards and plays a hand of blackjack with Carl.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the towel to Alice", "response": "\"Very funny,\" smiles Alice as she takes the towel. \"It *is* something warm for the night, though.\" She looks thoughtful, as if searching for one last excuse to keep herself in your apartment. \"You *know*, we're all ready to leave, but we don't have any way of getting to dinner or the concert! Now if only you could find any way for us to depart this place...\" She grins again.\n\nJohn squirms in his seat, trying to concentrate.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine Alice", "response": "Alice, one of John's friends, is a relentless partygoer. She likes listening to loud, ear-splitting music, playing card and dice games, watching television shows based on video games, drinking stirred and not shaken martinis, and annoying people like you. You know all this because of the many times she's visited your apartment along with twenty or thirty of her \"friends.\" Luckily for you her entourage seems a bit thin tonight.\n\n\"Reaction formation, projection, rationalization, sublimation!\" John recites desperately.\n\nAlice looks despondent. \"I really appreciate the coupon and the towel, but it looks like we're just going to be stuck here all night, since we don't have any way of getting to the Polonium. I guess we're going to be your guests all night, eh?\" She smiles wickedly.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give the skateboard to Alice", "response": "Alice starts laughing as she takes the skateboard from your hands. \"Got me again, huh? I guess this technically *is* transportation.\" She gathers up her more valuable possessions, including Carl, and theatrically wraps the pink towel around herself. \"Carl!\" she says, presenting the skateboard to him. \"You know how to ride one of these?\" Carl looks quizzically at the board, then puts it down and mounts it. He then lifts Alice onto his back (not without considerable effort). You open the door for the two as they glide out of the apartment.\n\n\"Be seeing ya,\" says Alice as they depart.\n\n\"Don't count on it,\" you say, closing the door.\n\n\"Projection, repression, rationalization, sublimation!\" John recites desperately.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the kitchen.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "When you moved into this apartment, the kitchen was a horrendous\nmess. Because you've agreed to let John maintain the kitchen while you maintain the bathroom, it still is; the stove is encrusted with the pathetic results of previous meals, the refrigerator is in sore need of a wipedown, and the kitchen sink as usual is filled with mostly useless items. A kitchen table sits in the center of the room. The living room is to the east.\nYou see three piece of cellophanes and a remote control here.\n\nEvan follows you into the kitchen, still playing the game.\n\nSomewhere below you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sink", "response": "This, as you probably surmised, is the kitchen sink. At the moment it is fairly filthy, thanks to John's recent diligent efforts at *not* scrubbing it. Under the sink is a cabinet in which the kitchen plumbing can be accessed. In the kitchen sink there are broken dishes; other than that, you see nothing at all.\n\nSomewhere below you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under the sink", "response": "Under the sink you see a cabinet.\n\nSomewhere below you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "Opening the cabinet reveals the pipes which comprise the kitchen plumbing. Besides that, you see nothing at all in it.\n\nSomewhere below you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the plumbing", "response": "This is a series of curved piping which connects the apartment to the local sewage system. The pipes look like they're leaking.\n\nSomewhere below you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the pipes", "response": "(with the wrench)\nYou tighten the pipes with your wrench, stopping the leak. However, as the last echoes of the dripping water fade in the kitchen, you hear the sound of dropping water in the bathroom...\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "This is the living room of your apartment. Well, at least half of\nit *could* be called a living room, in the sense that a person could actually live in it. You and John have long since decided that you would split the room into two, and each be responsible for each one's designated half. Your half, which contains a tasteful paisley couch and mahogany table, looks bright and clean. John's half, on the other hand, has piles of newspaper and beer cans, a ratty sofa which bleeds foam, and a study desk and chair, neither of which have seen much action until the last three days. The center of the room contains items you have both consented to share, such as the TV set, which is currently off.\nThe kitchen is to the west, the bedrooms and bath to the east, and\nthe exit (through which you hope to see John go soon) to the north. You see four crumpled papers, a snack food bag, and a piece of cellophane here.\nJohn is here, sitting at his special studying desk, trying\ndesperately to read his psychology textbook.\n\nJohn grits his teeth and grinds a pencil down to a stub.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.\n\nEvan follows you into the living room, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see three snack food bags here.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The bathroom, fortunately, is one of the rooms you've agreed to maintain, and as a result it isn't too filthy. Against the north wall is a gleaming sink and a mirror mounted above it; next to the mirror is a medicine cabinet. On the south wall is a towel rack. A toilet and shower, both scrubbed to exquisite perfection with lye-based cleansers, complete this traditional bathroom. The only exit to this bathroom is through a door to the west, which is open.\n\nSomewhere below you, you hear a dripping sound.\n\nEvan follows you into the bathroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the cabinet", "response": "Which cabinet do you mean, the bathroom sink cabinet, or the medicine cabinet?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sink", "response": "The bathroom sink cabinet is already open!\n\nSomewhere below you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pipes", "response": "Which pipes do you mean, the ceiling pipes, or the bathroom sink pipes?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Sink", "response": "This is a series of curved piping which connects the apartment to the local sanitation system. The pipes look like they're leaking.\n\nSomewhere below you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the sink pipes", "response": "(with the wrench)\nYou tighten the pipes with your wrench, stopping the leak. You stop the dripping water in the pipes under the sink. Breathing a sigh of relief, you wipe sweat off your forehead... Wait a minute. That wasn't too taxing. Why are you sweating? Looking overhead, you notice a new leak has sprung up in the overhead pipes.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the ceiling pipes", "response": "(with the wrench)\nThey're well out of your reach.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the sink", "response": "Climbing onto the sink is impractical as well as unsanitary in general.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand on the toilet", "response": "Your attempt to gain ground using the toilet proves futile, as the toilet, lacking a seat, provides no secure footholds upon which you can stand. The fact that you have polished the toilet to mirror-shine perfection, making what little surface there is very slippery, doesn't help. Nor does your desire not to dirty the toilet with your feet.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "and the bathroom. Your bedroom is to the south, behind an open door, while John's room is to the north, beyond an open door. The bathroom can be reached by going east through an open door.\nYou see three snack food bags here.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.\n\nEvan follows you into the short hall, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "This is your bedroom, for which you can be proud. Mostly bare,\nsince many of your possessions are out for dry cleaning, the room looks neater than ever. Your bed, sitting in one corner, is immaculately made, and your desk, placed against the northern wall, has a clear surface which reveals its mirror-shine polish. A fine mahogany dresser sits against the south wall, and a mirror sits atop it. There is an open door to the north and a closed closet door to the east.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.\n\nEvan follows you into your bedroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "Opened.\n\nFrom elsewhere in the apartment, you hear Bob's snores shaking the foundations of the earth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the closet", "response": "You see the interior of the closet through the open door, but you'll have to go inside to get a better look at what's there.\n\nFrom elsewhere in the apartment, you hear Bob's snores shaking the foundations of the earth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Dimly illuminated, this closet provides you with an impenetrable defense against outside noise. The door, which is to the west and open, is steel-reinforced and soundproof, preventing even the loudest party sounds from getting through. Though the closet is small, it is roomy enough for you and several of your favorite textbooks, and you've studied for many an exam here.\nYou see a toolbox and a swivel chair here.\n\nEvan follows you into your closet, still playing the game.\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close closet", "response": "Closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at Bob", "response": "Bob, alleged star athlete on the school's basket weaving team (Australian rules), is rather crude, rude, perpetually inebriated, and more than a bit ditzy. Unfortunately, that's his good side. He's looking a little better than usual today, though, having recently pulled through a savage bout with scurvy, but fortunately (from Bob's point of view), you don't need teeth to drink beer. At the moment he's thoroughly passed out.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the closet", "response": "Opened.\n\nBob lets out a loud snore which sounds truly hideous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take Bob", "response": "He's pretty heavy, but carryable. You sling him over your shoulder.\n\nBob, squirming on your shoulder, tugs at your shirt and mumbles something about \"stoopid umpirezz.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop Bob", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Close closet", "response": "Closed.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You stand on the chair", "response": "You stand on the chair. A bit precarious, but you maintain your balance.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fix the ceiling pipes", "response": "(with the wrench)\nWith all the balance you can muster, you tighten the pipe and stop the leak.\n\npreventing John from studying. With not much time to spare, he crams in as much Psychology knowledge into his brain as possible, and, come eight o'clock, goes nervously to his exam.\n\n[Press any key to continue]", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "XYZZY", "response": "You speak the ancient word of power. Then you realize you look absolutely silly doing so.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Fuck", "response": "Real adventurers don't use that sort of language...But frustrated college students with irritating roommates do, so you let out a good expletive.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Plugh", "response": "Your mother always told you that pointless jumping around was a sign of impending mental collapse.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.\n\nYou speak the ancient word of power. Then you realize you look absolutely silly doing so.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Yell", "response": "This is hardly the time or place to lose your composure.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Down", "response": "You're not going anywhere until you get off of the swivel chair.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You stand", "response": "Okay, you're no longer on the swivel chair.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the shower", "response": "Really, now...even your mother would agree that *four* showers in one day is starting to push it.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You smell yourself", "response": "You smell like a pleasant combination of lemon, ammonia, and bleach.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell shower", "response": "It smells just like you expect a shower to smell.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell sink", "response": "The sink has the appealing odor of lemon and disinfectant.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Smell evan", "response": "Evan has the musty scent of old Trivial Pursuit cards on him.\n\nIn the near silence, you hear a soft but obnoxious dripping noise coming from the direction of the bathroom.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The bathroom, fortunately, is one of the rooms you've agreed to maintain, and as a result it isn't too filthy. Against the north wall is a gleaming sink and a mirror mounted above it; next to the mirror is a medicine cabinet. On the south wall is a towel rack. A toilet and shower, both scrubbed to exquisite perfection with lye-based cleansers, complete this traditional bathroom. The only exit to this bathroom is through a door to the west, which is open.\nYou see a swivel chair here.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.\n\nEvan follows you into the bathroom, still playing the game.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Flush toilet", "response": "The toilet makes a satisfying flushing sound.\n\nSomewhere above you, you hear a dripping sound.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the game", "response": "You yank the game out of Evan's hands. In the process Evan's fingers brush against the game's on/off switch, turning the game off. Evan looks extremely surprised and perturbed.\n\nEvan gives a short speech about what's wrong with a recent popular movie and how he would change things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You play it", "response": "\"Ah, 'play', now that's an interesting word,\" says Evan. \"Let me tell you about its etymology...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn game on", "response": "You switch the trivia game on. A question appears on the screen:\n\n\"Question # 1\n\nThe category is Riddles of the Ancients.\n\nWhat is the windspeed of an unladen swallow?\n\nRed -> 10 km/hr\nYellow -> 30 km/hr\nGreen -> 50 km/hr\nBlue -> African or European?\n\nThis question is worth 200 points.\nYour current score is 0 and you have answered 0 questions out of 0.\"\n\nEvan gives a short speech about what's wrong with the weather and how he would change things.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Evan about dungeon", "response": "\"Ah, 'dungeon', now that's an interesting word,\" says Evan. \"Let me tell you about its etymology...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Evan about the zorkmids", "response": "\"Ah, 'zorkmids', now that's an interesting word,\" says Evan. \"Let me tell you about its etymology...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask Evan about the trivia", "response": "\"A fourth edition '20,000 Questions' LCD game!\" exclaims Evan. \"I've beaten the first, second, and third editions already! Let me play!\" You struggle to keep Evan's hands off you as he claws desperately for the game.\n\nEvan speculates about the recipe for Coca-Cola.", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Horror", "Zombie" ]

[ "animals", "Christianity", "cover art", "dead protagonist", "dog", "horror", "IF Competition 2012", "IFComp Game", "male protagonist", "nun", "post-apocalyptic", "profanity", "twist", "violence", "walkthrough", "Xyzzy Awards 2012", "zombies" ]

[ 1, 9, 6, 2, 1 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "Ever since you died, the migraines have been getting worse. At first you tried the usual - aspirin, caffeine, screaming - but you quickly learned that the type of migraine caused by having a large part of your brain eaten by an undead creature does not respond well to medication. The only known remedy is nutritional.\n\nThe brains of lower animals will work, partially, for a short time, but only human brains have the right balance of vitamins, essential fats and amino acids necessary to hold off the searing, throbbing agony long enough to make it to your next meal. And they taste surprisingly good. Unfortunately, while you were busy figuring all this out, the rest of the undead world was finishing off the last of the human race, leaving you with...\n\n\n\nThis tiny trailer is where you would sleep, if you slept. The front door is to the south.\n\nWhat's left of a large mirror leans against the wall, smeared with dried blood and vomit. Pieces of broken glass litter the floor.\n\nTowards the back is a small kitchenette. There's not much to it, since the trailer has no water, gas, or electricity. The fridge is still here, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the fridge", "response": "You open the refrigerator, revealing the severed head of your friend Jim.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the head", "response": "Eyes that were once steely blue have clouded over. There is a gaping hole in the back of the skull. The severed head is sitting on a shelf in the refrigerator.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the head", "response": "The head's eyes follow you as you pick it up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the hole", "response": "The skull was bashed in and most of the brains were scooped out and eaten. There's a lot of empty space in the skull cavity, but a small scrap of the hippocampus inside the head remains.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "(the broken mirror)\nLittle remains but a few fragments of glass projecting from a wooden frame. Flies cluster around chunks of skin caught on the sharp edges. A much more pleasant sight than your own reflection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Lick mirror", "response": "(the broken mirror)\nThe broken mirror tastes like dust.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the hippocampus", "response": "You scrape out the last of the rotten tissue and swallow it whole. The brains of the living are more nourishing, but you feel better as soon as it hits your stomach. You rock back and forth, feeling the heat spread through your body, soothing the rattling in your head.\n\nAlmost there.\n\nYou rock back and forth, feeling the heat spread up your arm as\nyou work. You're halfway through the spinal column. A hacksaw is just not the right tool for this job. Peter and Marie do their best to hold the body down, but it struggles more than ever.\n\n\"It's not Jim anymore.\" Peter reminds you. \"It's just a corpse. A thing. A monster. You can do it, Jack.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You're in pretty good shape, considering all you've been\nthrough.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na hacksaw", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "You look up from your work. Your friends are... not here. You\nmust have been hallucinating again.\n\nThis tiny trailer is where you would sleep, if you slept. The front door is to the south.\n\nWhat's left of a large mirror leans against the wall, smeared with dried blood and vomit. Pieces of broken glass litter the floor.\n\nThe refrigerator is standing open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the hacksaw", "response": "There's no hacksaw here. Are you hallucinating again?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "This tiny trailer is where you would sleep, if you slept. The front door is to the south.\n\nWhat's left of a large mirror leans against the wall, smeared with dried blood and vomit. Pieces of broken glass litter the floor.\n\nThe refrigerator is standing open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the mirror", "response": "(the broken mirror)\nLittle remains but a few fragments of glass projecting from a wooden frame. Flies cluster around chunks of skin caught on the sharp edges. A much more pleasant sight than your own reflection.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "(first opening the front door)\nYou grip the doorknob with your free hand and twist it. The door rattles, but doesn't open. You pull at the knob, but the door seems stuck. You yank at the doorknob again. The handle rips out of the door and you're left holding it in your hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the handle", "response": "It's old and filthy with smears of dried fluids. The knob has been yanked from the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You kick the door", "response": "You give the front door a forceful kick, but it seems to do a lot more damage to your foot than your foot does to it.\n\nChrist Almighty! This living death isn't for the weak.\n\nYour foot is turned inward at an angle that would be impossible if it were firmly attached.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "It's a splintered old wooden door with a missing handle. It is currently closed.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the door with the handle", "response": "You whack the doorknob against the door, but it hardly makes a mark. You hit it harder, until you hear a crack in your wrist.\n\nGod dammit to hell. Flies settle on your body, tickling you\nin spots you can't reach.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Among the pieces you find a shard of your mirror, about the size of a credit card.\n\nThe head rolls its eyes, attempts to swallow, and speaks to you: \"Ride. Riiiiiiide...\"\n\nThis tiny trailer is where you would sleep, if you slept. The front door is to the south.\n\nWhat's left of a large mirror leans against the wall, smeared with dried blood and vomit. Pieces of broken glass litter the floor.\n\nThe refrigerator is standing open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the glass", "response": "There are countless pieces. You notice one in particular, a shard about the size of a credit card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take it", "response": "That's fixed in place.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the shard", "response": "It's a shard of your mirror, about the size of a credit card.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the skull", "response": "The skull was bashed in and all of the brains were scooped out and eaten.\n\nIn the skull cavity is a doorknob.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the fridge", "response": "It's a beat-up old white fridge, apartment-sized.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the doorknob from the cavity", "response": "(putting the shard of your mirror into the skull cavity to get your hand free)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "In one hand you have the severed head (containing a shard of your mirror). In the other you have a doorknob.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the head", "response": "The head bites onto your finger in an attempt to avoid being let go. The flesh of your hand is not very substantial, however, and the head drops to the ground, a small strip of your skin between its teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the shard", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door with the knob", "response": "(putting the shard of your mirror into the skull cavity to get your hand free)\nYou turn the doorknob, careful not to pull it out. Since you've got the other hand free, you're able to pry the door open with your fingernails.\n\nThe front door swings closed with a bang.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You leave", "response": "(first opening the front door)\nThe doorknob is loose, so you need a free hand to pry the door open while you turn it. You're still holding the severed head.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Leave", "response": "(first opening the front door)\nYou turn the doorknob, careful not to pull it out. Since you've got the other hand free, you're able to pry the door open with your fingernails.\n\nParked just uphill on the northern shoulder of the road is the battered Cloudliner trailer. The road leads along the mountainside from a pine grove in the west, and a sign points east towards the highway. Scattered trees and shrubs cling to the slope below you. The afternoon heat is on the wane.\n\nFrom inside the trailer, you hear the head wail, \"Noooo! Doonnnn' leeavve!\"\n\nThen the front door swings closed with a bang.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You stumble along for what seems like quite a long distance. Your dragging foot catches on a rock. With a crack, it snaps right off and you plant your face in the hot asphalt. No matter, you can still crawl until you eat enough brains to reattach it.\n\nOpen Road (crawling)\nYou're crawling on an east-west road cut into the steep hillside. The desert spreads out to the south, covered by just enough low scrub to conceal a reasonably large predator.\n\nYour foot seems to have fallen off and it's lying on the ground nearby.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine it", "response": "Your foot is severed from your leg. Bones stick out of it at odd angles, and the sole is studded with gravel and broken glass. Every so often it flexes and wiggles its toes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Cracked Road (crawling)\nYour path continues east over cracked, uneven asphalt. A glint of chrome to the east might be a diner. Everything here is dry as paper and there's not a cloud in sight to shade you from the harsh afternoon sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the northeast", "response": "Parking Lot (crawling)\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nBlinds in the windows prevent you from seeing inside the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "Shed (crawling)\nYou are under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator.\n\nYou can also see a siphon pump and a bright red plastic gas can here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Kitchen (crawling)\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is closed.\n\nA key is in the keyhole of the steel door. It is attached by a chain to a bolt on the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the key", "response": "The key to the steel door is chained to a bolt on the wall. It's inserted into the lock, which is currently unlocked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the steel door", "response": "The steel door has a spring latch so it can be locked when it is open. It is currently closed and unlocked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open the door", "response": "You open the steel door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "You take hold of the key at the end of the chain and remove it from the lock.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "As you leave, the chain tugs on the key in your hand. You let go and it dangles towards the floor.\n\nFreezer (crawling)\nThis walk-in freezer is a dark and stuffy place with no power. Although cooler than outdoors, it has a suffocating atmosphere that makes you long for the open air.\n\nThe freezer door is to the east. It is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "Kitchen (crawling)\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You insert key", "response": "I didn't understand that. Try rephrasing your command another way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "(with the steel key)\n(first taking the steel key)\n\nYou take hold of the key at the end of the chain.\n\nYou lock the freezer door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the key", "response": "You already have that.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Kitchen (crawling)\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA chain connects the steel key you're carrying to a bolt on the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the key", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "Shed (crawling)\nYou are under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator.\n\nYou can also see a siphon pump and a bright red plastic gas can here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the cables", "response": "The generator is weathered, but nothing is obviously broken, and it's still hooked up to some thick cables that run into the building. It has a large opening on the top labeled \"GASOLINE.\" The gas cap seems to be missing. There's also a button labeled \"IGNITION.\" Down near the bottom, where the motor is located, there's a pull cord with a plastic handle.\n\nThe generator is currently switched off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Parking Lot (crawling)\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nBlinds in the windows prevent you from seeing inside the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "The Uptown Diner (crawling)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, dark and silent.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine jukebox", "response": "The jukebox is as dark and silent as every electrical device in the diner. An array of panels list the available songs. There is a button labeled with the disc number and side by each one:\n\nA1: After the Fall - Klaus Nomi\nB1: The Voyeur of Utter Destruction - David Bowie\n\nA2: Piggy Smack - Severed Heads\nB2: Big Car - Severed Heads\n\nA3: Mad World - Tears for Fears\nB3: Everybody Wants to Rule the World - Tears for Fears\n\nA4: Thriller - Michael Jackson\nB4: Ghostbusters - Ray Parker Junior\n\nA5: Jerdacuttup Man - The Triffids\nB5: The Spinning Top Song - The Triffids\n\nA6: Love Zombie - Sweet Lickin' Honey Babes\nB6: I'm Not the Man I Used to Be - Fine Young Cannibals\n\nA7: Omnichrome - Three Hour Detour\nB7: Snow Karma - Three Hour Detour\n\nButton B2 looks more worn than the others - you can hardly read the label at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Kitchen (crawling)\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Press b2", "response": "Nothing happens. The jukebox doesn't appear to have any power.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the counter", "response": "The counter extends from the north wall. It's made of rusted steel and chipped formica, and it's covered with dark sticky stains. Broken and twisted bolts in the floor indicate that the barstools were ripped out, probably for use in the general smashing of stuff that has taken place here. They are nowhere to be found now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the booths", "response": "Each booth is a formica table with two bench seats upholstered in ripped and faded red vinyl, with a speaker positioned on the ceiling directly overhead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "Your hand isn't quite as firmly attached to your arm as it ought to be, and you are missing a foot. You have eaten a last piece of your friend Jim's brains. A sledgehammer-like rhythm pounds its way from the back of your skull towards your eyeballs, but it only hurts about five times as much as the worst headache you ever experienced while alive.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You flail your limbs around on the floor.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "In one hand you have your severed foot. The other hand is free.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the foot", "response": "(to your leg)\nYou hold your severed foot against your leg, but your body must not be ready to heal, because it doesn't stick. You need to find some more brains to eat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine gas", "response": "It's about the size and shape of the gasoline intake on a car.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the can", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the pump", "response": "Your hands are full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the foot", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pump", "response": "Two flexible plastic tubes connect to either end of a black rubber squeeze bulb.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Shed (crawling)\nYou are under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator.\n\nYou can also see your severed foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Parking Lot (crawling)\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nBlinds in the windows prevent you from seeing inside the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.\n\nInching along with a twisting, flexing motion, your foot arrives from the back entrance of the diner. It has returned to its owner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Pile-up (crawling)\nThe road curves to the north here around a steep cliff. Dead ahead is the scene of a horrific accident - four or five cars are smashed together. Behind the pile-up is another wreck: lying on its side, blocking the entire road, is the carcass of a school bus.\n\nSeveral more cars seem to have stopped short of the accident scene. Most are stripped-down or rusted beyond recognition, but a large, boxy blue sedan looks more recent.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sedan", "response": "It's an old Dodge. Light blue, scratched and dusty, but still in decent shape. The doors and windows are locked, but the gas cap for the sedan's tank is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bus", "response": "Straining to see through the smashed windows to the darkness inside, it looks like there's plenty of bodily fluids staining the seats. Maybe a few limbs too.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pump in the sedan", "response": "You insert the siphon pump into the sedan's gas tank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pump in the can", "response": "You insert the siphon pump into the nozzle. Now the pump connects it to the sedan's gas tank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pump pump", "response": "You start to squeeze the bulb, but it feels too stiff. It's dried out and beginning to crack - any further squeezing would probably break it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take pump", "response": "(Removing the end of the siphon pump from the gas can)\n(Removing the end of the siphon pump from the sedan's gas tank)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spit", "response": "What do you want to spit?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the bus", "response": "You work your way through the wreckage towards the schoolbus. There's definitely something moving around underneath. You crouch down and reach your hand in. Something grabs it and pulls you forward. It's a small hand, and in the shadows you make out a blanched round face, and then several others. More hands grab your limbs, pulling them in different directions, then tiny teeth nip at your flesh as fingernails pry at your skull.\n\nIn a moment, you're opened wide and icicles of hurt shoot from your head through your paralyzed body. As the children scoop out your brains, you become disoriented, but your consciousness of the pain never fades...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pump in the mouth", "response": "You grip the siphon pump between your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Spit pump", "response": "You spit the siphon pump out onto the ground. It's a little slimy now, but still usable.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the pump", "response": "Two flexible plastic tubes connect to either end of a black rubber squeeze bulb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the pump to the sedan", "response": "You might as well just drop the siphon pump.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sedan", "response": "It's an old Dodge. Light blue, scratched and dusty, but still in decent shape. The doors and windows are locked, but the gas cap for the sedan's tank is open.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put pump in the tank", "response": "You insert the siphon pump into the sedan's gas tank.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You suck on the pump", "response": "You suck hard. Nothing comes. Then, very quickly, the gasoline rises through the pump and shoots into your mouth. You gag, but the fumes give you momentary relief from the pounding in your head.\n\nYou are now holding the pump in your mouth to keep the gasoline from flowing out again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "In one hand you have a gas can. The other hand is free. You're holding a full siphon pump in your teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Blow pump", "response": "I didn't understand that. Try rephrasing your command another way.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the pump in the can", "response": "(first removing the pump from your mouth)\nYou insert the pump into the nozzle and the tubes take on a comfortable chill as gasoline flows through them. Soon the flow stops and air bubbles back into the pump.\n\nA tattered orthopedic shoe crunches by your ear. You twist your head around and look up.\n\n\"Oh, I'm sorry, dear. I didn't mean to startle you!\" says the kindly old nun looking down at you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the gas in the can", "response": "(the sedan's gas tank in the gas can)\nThat already has one end of the pump in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine nun", "response": "A smiling woman in her seventies, the old nun looks quite dignified in her purple dress. The fact that one eye is missing and a dark purple ooze stains her plain white veil and flows out from where her left ear should be does nothing to reduce her appearance of grace and goodwill. A rosary made of irregular white beads hangs from her waist. She's smiling at you cheerfully.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the rosary", "response": "The rosary has a loop of five decades, or sets of of ten beads, with a single bead separating each decade from the next. A string of four more beads hangs from the loop, with a crucifix at the end. Every bead represents a prayer. You know how to pray the rosary, and when you were alive you used one to calm down. This one appears to be made of cavity-riddled teeth hooked together with small pieces of wire.\n\n\"Isn't this a lovely rosary? Would you like to have it?\" She holds it out to you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the nun for rosary", "response": "You ask the old nun for the rosary.\n\n\"Go ahead, take it,\" she offers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "Your fingers are too spastic to do the rosary one-handed. You'll have to put the gas can down first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Full gas can", "response": "You mumble something almost comprehensible about the gas can.\n\n\"Well, if you change your mind, you can have it,\" the old nun replies.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You hold the rosary in your hands, counting off beads with your fingers. You start with the cross on the end, making the sign of the cross and praying the Apostle's Creed. At the first bead you say the Lord's Prayer, and then a Hail Mary on each of the next three.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You enter the loop, which contains five strings of ten beads, each with a single bead in between. Meditating on the Resurrection, you say an Our Father and ten Hail Marys.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You contemplate Pentecost, the time when The Holy Spirit descended on the apostles in tongues of fire. You say an Our Father and ten more Hail Marys.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "You complete the last decade of the rosary. The fifth mystery is the Coronation of Mary, Queen of Heaven. At the end you pray:\n\n\"Hail, Holy Queen, mother of mercy,\nour life, our sweetness and our hope.\nTo thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve\nTo thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this vale\nof tears.\nTurn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward\nus,\nand after this our exile, show us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.\nO clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.\nPray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of\nthe promises of Christ.\"\n\nOr at least that's how it goes in your head. The actual sound you make is more like \"Fghh hu arhl hrh cluh thghhl.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat nun", "response": "You reach for her greedily but she stops your arm, holding it with an iron grip. \"Dear me, child,\" she says. \"If you want something, you ought to ask nicely.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the nun for the brains", "response": "\"BRAAI--\" you begin, but the old nun interrupts. \"Hush now! You'll startle those creatures under the bus.\"\n\nThe old nun looks you over gravely. \"You're in very bad shape, my friend. Very bad. I wish I could help you. I'd even give you my own brain, if it were enough. But I don't think you'd have the strength to escape without eating more than that,\" she says. \"Go find yourself some more brains to eat, and maybe I'll be able to help you then.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the gas can", "response": "(from the blue sedan)\nThat already has one end of the pump in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine can", "response": "It sloshes heavily.\n\nOne end of the siphon pump is sticking into the opening.\n\n\"I see you got some gasoline out of my old clunker here,\" the old nun observes. \"I hope it can be of use to you, and do please let me know if there's anything else I can help you with,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drink the gas", "response": "(the gas can)\nThe gas can has the siphon pump in it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take pump", "response": "(Removing the end of the siphon pump from the gas can)\n(Removing the end of the siphon pump from the sedan's gas tank)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the can", "response": "Your hands are full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the pump", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the can", "response": "Taken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Parking Lot (crawling)\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nBlinds in the windows prevent you from seeing inside the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the front of the diner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northwest", "response": "Shed (crawling)\nYou are under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the parking lot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You fill the opening with the can", "response": "You insert the nozzle into the intake and gasoline glugs in. You pull it out again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You pull cord", "response": "You pull on the cord and you hear a couple of bangs as the engine turns over. You try again and the lawnmower roars to a start. Wow, that noise is loud - it makes everything shake.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at lawnmower", "response": "It's old, rusty, and heavy, but it might make a decent weapon if\nyou gave it a really good swing.\n\nLawnmower?\n\nDamn. Forgot you were dead again.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About you", "response": "Your hand isn't quite as firmly attached to your arm as it ought to be, and you are missing a foot. You have eaten a last piece of your friend Jim's brains. A sledgehammer-like rhythm pounds its way from the back of your skull towards your eyeballs, but it only hurts about five times as much as the worst headache you ever experienced while alive.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "Shed (crawling)\nYou are under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator that is chugging away noisily.\n\nYou can also see your severed foot here.\n\nThe generator makes a really loud noise, and it makes everything shake. You can't even think straight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Everything is shaking. You try to turn the handle on the back door but you can't get a good grip on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Parking Lot (crawling)\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nBlinds in the windows prevent you from seeing inside the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the back entrance of the diner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "The Uptown Diner (crawling)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from outside the front of the diner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine booth", "response": "Each booth is a formica table with two bench seats upholstered in ripped and faded red vinyl, with a speaker positioned on the ceiling directly overhead.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The Uptown Diner (crawling)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nYou can see your severed foot here.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You get into the booth.\n\nEach booth is a formica table with two bench seats upholstered in ripped and faded red vinyl, with a speaker positioned on the ceiling directly overhead. This booth has a blind covering the window. It's crooked and appears to be jammed, but it covers the glass so that you can't tell whether it's broken or not.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You get out of the booth.\n\nThe Uptown Diner (crawling)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nYou can see your severed foot here.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine blind", "response": "Flimsy, bent, and faded with age, it nevertheless covers the window so that you can't see outside from here.\n\nThe song comes to an end, and the jukebox is silent once more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north", "response": "You can't go that way. You can go south to the front of the diner or west through the kitchen door. You can also enter the booth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You open blind", "response": "You pull on the cord, but it's solidly jammed. If you want to see, you'll have to look under the blind.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under blind", "response": "You have to get into the booth to reach the east window.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You get into the booth.\n\nEach booth is a formica table with two bench seats upholstered in ripped and faded red vinyl, with a speaker positioned on the ceiling directly overhead. This booth has a blind covering the window. It's crooked and appears to be jammed, but it covers the glass so that you can't tell whether it's broken or not.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter booth", "response": "But you're already in the booth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look under blind", "response": "Peeking behind the blind, you see that the window is intact. The parking lot beyond is deserted.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You get out of the booth.\n\nThe Uptown Diner (crawling)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nYou can also see your severed foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jukebox", "response": "A light behind the entry for \"B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads\" indicates that it is now playing, and the music fills the room from a number of speakers over the booths. An array of panels list the available songs. There is a button labeled with the disc number and side by each one:\n\nA1: After the Fall - Klaus Nomi\nB1: The Voyeur of Utter Destruction - David Bowie\n\nA2: Piggy Smack - Severed Heads\nB2: Big Car - Severed Heads\n\nA3: Mad World - Tears for Fears\nB3: Everybody Wants to Rule the World - Tears for Fears\n\nA4: Thriller - Michael Jackson\nB4: Ghostbusters - Ray Parker Junior\n\nA5: Jerdacuttup Man - The Triffids\nB5: The Spinning Top Song - The Triffids\n\nA6: Love Zombie - Sweet Lickin' Honey Babes\nB6: I'm Not the Man I Used to Be - Fine Young Cannibals\n\nA7: Omnichrome - Three Hour Detour\nB7: Snow Karma - Three Hour Detour\n\nButton B2 looks more worn than the others - you can hardly read the label at all.\n\nA foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Kitchen (crawling)\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the dining room.\n\nMuffled music can be heard coming from the jukebox in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The Uptown Diner (crawling)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nYour severed foot arrives through the kitchen door.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search the floor", "response": "The floor is littered with broken glass.\n\nThe song comes to an end, and the jukebox is silent once more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Freezer (crawling)\nPale fluorescent lights illuminate the room. With the power back on, this walk-in freezer is getting cold quite rapidly. For a moment, it offers relief from the summer heat. Then the chill starts to seep in and you feel your body shutting down.\n\nThe freezer door is to the east. It is open and locked.\n\nOut in the kitchen, your foot taps its toe impatiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The only way out is through the door to the east.\n\nOut in the kitchen, your foot taps its toe impatiently.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You lock yourself in the freezer. It continues getting colder.\n\nYou feel an object bump against your foot. You look down to see what it is, but your foot isn't there. You feel the bump again, like your foot is trying to get somewhere and hitting an obstacle. Maybe it needs your help.\n\nIt's peaceful here, but the harsh light and the mechanical noises eventually get to you. Soon your head is buzzing like it's filled with angry bees. You think of eating brains. Maybe you could have found more before you got stuck here. Too late now...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "Kitchen (crawling)\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nYou can also see your severed foot here.\n\nMuffled music can be heard coming from the jukebox in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Kitchen (crawling)\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nYou can also see your severed foot here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "The Uptown Diner (crawling)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nYour severed foot arrives through the kitchen door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "The Uptown Diner (crawling)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from outside the front of the diner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "Cracked Road (crawling)\nYour path leads east and west over cracked, uneven asphalt. A glint of chrome is all you see of the diner to the east.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Open Road (crawling)\nYou're crawling on an east-west road cut into the steep hillside. The desert spreads out to the south.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Outside the Trailer (crawling)\nParked just uphill on the northern shoulder of the road is the battered Cloudliner trailer. The road leads along the mountainside from a pine grove in the west, and a sign points east towards the highway.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Pines (crawling)\nAs the road leads into the mountains, the gnarled old pine trees get thicker. Cracks in the road trip your feet and thorns rip your arms and legs. Further travel west is blocked by a pile of fallen rocks.\n\nYour severed foot arrives from the east.\n\nYou stumble upon an old yellow dog. Its fur is matted, and there's a fleck of foam on its jaw. Its eyes focus, you hear the beginning of a growl, and then it leaps at you. You step back just in time, and it circles back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pet dog", "response": "You reach out, and it turns to bite your hand. The teeth sink into your flesh and you realize just how strong the dog's grip is.\n\nYour hand is now caught, still holding the gas can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine dog", "response": "The dog's fur is matted and foamy drool drips from its jaws. It grips your hand tightly between its teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the dog", "response": "You pull the dog's head close and smash your face into its skull. Your teeth go flying and the dog bites down hard on your hand, but soon hot blood splashes on your face and the animal goes limp.\n\nThe creature is now motionless on the ground and its brains are yours for the taking, but it has bitten your hand clean off.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the hand", "response": "Your hand has been ripped from your arm. In its grip is a gas can.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the dog", "response": "You reach for the dog, and it turns to bite your hand. The teeth sink into your flesh and you realize just how strong the dog's grip is.\n\nYour hand is now caught, still holding the rosary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "\"Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our\ndeath.\"\n\nOr at least that's how it goes in your head. The actual sound you make is more like \"Aarhvfark frmtbl.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the brains", "response": "You ball your remaining hand into a fist and smash it into the skull of the defenseless animal. Cupping its head to your mouth, you suck out the tender grey matter, and then dig out the remaining pieces with your fingers, licking them clean.\n\n\"It should have been me.\"\n\n\"You're wrong, Jack. It shouldn't have been at all. What's\nhappening-\" Peter stops. \"These creatures - they're unnatural. They defy God. You can't blame yourself.\"\n\nHe turns back to the fire and pulls the other hind leg off of the rabbit you're sharing. It's not much of a meal for all three of you, but it's the best you've had in days.\n\nMarie's finished off the flanks and forelegs already and now she's trying to get little bits of meat off the skull.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the brains", "response": "The thought of eating brains nauseates you in the extreme. You're\nnot some kind of monster, are you?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "As the road leads into the mountains, the gnarled old pine trees\nget thicker. Here there is a little shelter from the freezing winds. Further travel west is blocked by a pile of fallen rocks.\n\nThe three of you have built a small campfire here. Only a few\nembers remain and you've been inching closer against the late winter chill.\n\nA rabbit carcass lies by the fire, stripped of its meat.\n\nPeter is cleaning his fingernails with a pocketknife.\n\ngusto.\n\nyour headache subside as the first morsels of food hit your stomach juices.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine carcass", "response": "Cooking directly on the fire does not make for even heating. Some bones are charred, while others are still wet and bloody.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the rabbit", "response": "(the hind leg)\nYou gnaw at the bone a little more.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Marie", "response": "\"What's up with you, Marie?\"\n\nskull.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Peter", "response": "(To speak aloud the thought that is currently on your mind, you\ncan use the abbreviation \"T\".)\n\n\"How are you doing, Peter?\"\n\n\"It's been rough, Jack. You know all about that. Man, winter was\nhard. I didn't think it got that cold out here. But the cold's better than what's coming - now the corpses are starting to thaw. It's hard not to give up sometimes.\"\n\nYou're thinking, \"Seriously? Peter, giving up?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Peter", "response": "\"You're not seriously thinking about giving up, are you\nPeter?\"\n\n\"We've got to have faith, Jack. That's about all we've got left.\nBut I still believe. There's got to be something better after\nthis.\"\n\nYou're thinking, \"How can Peter still believe in God? After\neverything that's happened?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk god", "response": "\"How can you still believe in God, Peter? After everything that's happened?\"\n\n\"I have to believe that God still cares, Jack. The corruption of\nthis world - that doesn't come from God. That comes from us, from our sins. We've fallen so far. But I believe He will take us back. I believe we'll be in Paradise soon.\"\n\nYou're thinking, \"What if the undead life IS the afterlife?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk the afterlife", "response": "\"What if this is it? What if the undead life IS the\nafterlife?\"\n\n\"You know that doesn't make any sense. Stop talking crazy.\"\n\nYou're thinking, \"What happens to your soul when your body is\nturned undead?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk soul", "response": "\"What happens to your soul when your body is turned undead? Can\nyou still go to Heaven?\"\n\n\"Mmfph!\" she mumbles through a mouthful of rabbit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk giving up", "response": "\"Seriously, Marie? Peter, giving up?\"\n\n\"Mmfph!\" she mumbles through a mouthful of rabbit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk darn right", "response": "\"darn right\" was not recognized as something you can talk\nabout.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to Peter", "response": "\"How are you doing, Peter?\"\n\n\"It's been rough, Jack. You know all about that. Man, winter was\nhard. It's hard not to give up sometimes.\"\n\nYou're thinking, \"Thank God they stop when it freezes. But now\nthey're thawing out...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk soul", "response": "\"All right then, what happens to your soul when your body is\nturned undead? Can you still go to Heaven?\"\n\n\"Death is death. This undead thing, that's not you. Your soul is released when you die. It leaves your body. You've seen those things. They can't possibly have a soul.\"\n\nYou're thinking, \"But what if they do? How could their souls find release?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Release", "response": "(the hind leg)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk the release", "response": "\"But what if they do have souls, trapped in their bodies? What if they're just in so much pain that they can't express anything else? How could their souls find release?\"\n\nPeter glances at you uneasily. \"They don't have souls.\" He gives a frustrated sigh. \"But for the sake of argument, suppose you're right. Destroying the head, that seems to shut them down. Like really dying, for good. Maybe their souls are released then. Would that make you feel any better about it?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Talk", "response": "You're at a loss for words.\n\n\"You've made your point,\" Peter says.\n\nYou're thinking, \"What the hell happened last week? That thing\ncame out of nowhere.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Talk", "response": "\"What the hell happened last week? That thing came out of\nnowhere.\"\n\n\"It was half buried underground, Jack. Maybe it got caught in that flash flood in November. You almost stepped on it - I guess that's when it woke up. If I hadn't had my steel-toed boots on, we'd probably both be dead now.\"\n\nYou're thinking, \"Thank God they stop when it freezes. But now\nthey're thawing out...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Talk", "response": "\"Thank God they stop when it freezes. But now they're thawing\nout...\"\n\n\"It's like they're lizards,\" he says. \"You know, some kind of cold-blooded creature. When the weather freezes, they freeze too. And when it's cold, they're slow. But they still move. It only takes a little bit of a warm-up to get them going again.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Talk", "response": "You can't think of anything to talk about right now.\n\n\"Whoo-hah! That was one tasty bunny,\" Marie bellows, wiping her\nface with the back of her hand. She burps loudly and leans back with a sleepy, satisfied expression.\n\nYou're thinking, \"Jim saved me. I didn't deserve that.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Talk", "response": "\"He saved me. I didn't deserve that.\"\n\nPeter replies, \"You would have done the same thing, Jack. You're not--\"\n\nWhat sounds at first like a chuckle from Marie turns into a gag,\nand then a muffled scream. Bony hands wrap around her head and squeeze her throat as she's dragged away by shadowy figures. Unearthly whoops and grunts suggest there's at least four of them. Peter stands and draws a pistol, shooting first into the shadows, and then as teeth flash and blood flows, at Marie's head. You're on your feet too, and more shadows are approaching...", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "As the road leads into the mountains, the gnarled old pine trees\nget thicker. Here there is a little shelter from the freezing winds. Further travel west is blocked by a pile of fallen rocks.\n\nThe three of you have built a small campfire here. Only a few\nembers remain and you've been inching closer against the late winter chill.\n\nA rabbit carcass lies by the fire, stripped of its meat.\n\nPeter is slashing at monsters with his pocketknife, pistol ready\nin his other hand.\n\ndarkness, reaching for your throat with bloody hands.\n\nYou can also see a hind leg here.\n\nMonsters? That dog's brain must have gone right to your head.\nYou're being attacked by a pack of wild dogs!\n\nPines (crawling)\nAs the road leads into the mountains, the gnarled old pine trees get thicker. Further travel west is blocked by a pile of fallen rocks.\n\nA wretched old yellow dog is lying dead in the dirt. In its mouth is your severed hand.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first. One of them seems to have something in its mouth.\n\nYou feel an itching at the end of your leg and your arm. The stump of your ankle is really throbbing.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at mouth", "response": "(the wild dog's mouth)\nThe animal has your foot in its mouth. It must have picked it up and followed the scent here.\n\nYour ankle continues to throb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the foot", "response": "(to your leg)\nAs you place your foot on your leg, the itching becomes more intense until it feels like a white-hot flame. Cartilage springs from your bone as sinews reattach and flesh crawls together. Within a minute or so your foot is as whole as it was before - that is to say, putrid and threadbare, but attached.\n\nUnfortunately, your headache is worse now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach hand", "response": "(to your arm)\nYou hold your severed hand against your arm, but your body must not be ready to heal, because it doesn't stick. You need to find some more brains to eat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Status", "response": "Your foot has been fused back onto your leg, and you are missing a hand. You have eaten some old yellow dog's brains and a last piece of your friend Jim's brains. Your head is throbbing painfully, but it's only about four times the intensity of the worst headache you ever felt in your life.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Describe the surroundings", "response": "As the road leads into the mountains, the gnarled old pine trees get thicker. Further travel west is blocked by a pile of fallen rocks.\n\nA wretched old yellow dog is lying dead in the dirt. In its mouth is your severed hand.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the hand", "response": "Your hands are full, so to speak.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "In one hand you have a gas can. The other hand has been severed from your arm.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Up", "response": "The hills here are steep and treacherous. You saw a dead guy going down a slope like this one time -- he tripped and fell quite a ways. Having both legs broken wouldn't have been so bad in itself, but then the wild dogs and the vultures found him. His flesh kept growing back and they just kept chewing it off before he could build up the strength to get up again.\n\nThe only way back is down the road to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop can", "response": "Dropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You flee towards the east, pursued by the dogs.\n\nParked just uphill on the northern shoulder of the road is the battered Cloudliner trailer. The road leads along the mountainside from a pine grove in the west, and a sign points east towards the highway.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You flee towards the east, pursued by the dogs.\n\nYou stumble along for what seems like quite a long distance. Your dragging foot catches on a rock. With a crack, it snaps right off and you plant your face in the hot asphalt.\n\nThe pack leaps upon you silently, pinning you to the pavement and tearing into your flesh. Your throat is torn out, your spine is crushed, and you feel the world tumble as your head rolls away from your body. The dogs lose interest in a short while, and then the vultures arrive to pick at your exposed organs. Somehow you are still able to feel all of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the hand", "response": "You toss your severed hand a short distance and it lands in the dirt.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The hills here are steep and treacherous. You saw a dead guy going down a slope like this one time -- he tripped and fell quite a ways. Having both legs broken wouldn't have been so bad in itself, but then the wild dogs and the vultures found him. His flesh kept growing back and they just kept chewing it off before he could build up the strength to get up again.\n\nYou can go north into the trailer or down the road to the east or the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You flee towards the east, pursued by the dogs.\n\nYou stumble along for what seems like quite a long distance. Your dragging foot catches on a rock. With a crack, it snaps right off and you plant your face in the hot asphalt.\n\nThe pack leaps upon you silently, pinning you to the pavement and tearing into your flesh. Your throat is torn out, your spine is crushed, and you feel the world tumble as your head rolls away from your body. The dogs lose interest in a short while, and then the vultures arrive to pick at your exposed organs. Somehow you are still able to feel all of it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "(first opening the front door)\nYou squeeze into the trailer and slam the door behind you.\n\nThis tiny trailer is where you would sleep, if you slept. The front door is to the south.\n\nWhat's left of a large mirror leans against the wall, smeared with dried blood and vomit. Pieces of broken glass litter the floor.\n\nThe refrigerator is standing open.\n\nThe severed head is lying on the floor, its eyes following you crookedly.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the front door.\n\nOutside you hear howls of frustration. The door rattles as paws scratch and bodies thump against it. After a while, the barking turns to sniffing, and then silence as the animals leave in search of easier prey.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "(first opening the front door)\nYou turn the doorknob, careful not to pull it out. By rubbing the stump of your wrist against the edge of the door, you're able to chivvy it open.\n\nParked just uphill on the northern shoulder of the road is the battered Cloudliner trailer. The road leads along the mountainside from a pine grove in the west, and a sign points east towards the highway.\n\nYou can see your severed hand here.\n\nFrom inside the trailer, you hear the head wail, \"Noooo! Doonnnn' leeavve!\"\n\nThen the front door swings closed with a bang.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stumble along for what seems like quite a long distance. The road is uneven here, and your poor vision misses many rocks and pieces of debris. You trip on something, planting your face in the hot asphalt, but your foot seems to have healed well enough to take the punishment. You get up again.\n\nYou're walking on an east-west road cut into the steep hillside. The desert spreads out to the south.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "And become a permanent feast for the vultures in these steep and treacherous hills? Not today.\n\nYou can go down the road to the east or the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You stumble along for what seems like quite a long distance. The road is uneven here, and your poor vision misses many cracks and potholes. You twist your ankle on some unseen obstacle. You sit down to rest for a moment, but your foot seems to have healed well enough to take the punishment. You get up again.\n\nYour path leads east and west over cracked, uneven asphalt. A glint of chrome is all you see of the diner to the east.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go inside", "response": "A long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the dogs", "response": "There are four or five big mongrel dogs - they move so fast and your vision is so poor that you can't be sure. They look stout and healthy, unlike the rabid beast you just took down. They're barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You flail around, jumping up and down like a crazy fool. It makes you a little dizzy, but your head doesn't hurt any worse for it.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jukebox", "response": "A light behind the entry for \"B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads\" indicates that it is now playing, and the music fills the room from a number of speakers over the booths. An array of panels list the available songs. There is a button labeled with the disc number and side by each one:\n\nA1: After the Fall - Klaus Nomi\nB1: The Voyeur of Utter Destruction - David Bowie\n\nA2: Piggy Smack - Severed Heads\nB2: Big Car - Severed Heads\n\nA3: Mad World - Tears for Fears\nB3: Everybody Wants to Rule the World - Tears for Fears\n\nA4: Thriller - Michael Jackson\nB4: Ghostbusters - Ray Parker Junior\n\nA5: Jerdacuttup Man - The Triffids\nB5: The Spinning Top Song - The Triffids\n\nA6: Love Zombie - Sweet Lickin' Honey Babes\nB6: I'm Not the Man I Used to Be - Fine Young Cannibals\n\nA7: Omnichrome - Three Hour Detour\nB7: Snow Karma - Three Hour Detour\n\nButton B2 looks more worn than the others - you can hardly read the label at all.\n\nA foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You head for the kitchen door, pursued by the dogs.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.\n\nMuffled music can be heard coming from the jukebox in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter", "response": "You head for the freezer door, pursued by the dogs.\n\nPale fluorescent lights illuminate the room. With the power back on, this walk-in freezer is getting cold quite rapidly. For a moment, it offers relief from the summer heat. Then the chill starts to seep in and you feel your body shutting down.\n\nThe freezer door is to the east. It is open and locked.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You head for the freezer door, pursued by the dogs.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You head for the freezer door, pursued by the dogs.\n\nPale fluorescent lights illuminate the room. With the power back on, this walk-in freezer is getting cold quite rapidly. For a moment, it offers relief from the summer heat. Then the chill starts to seep in and you feel your body shutting down.\n\nThe freezer door is to the east. It is open and locked.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.\n\nYou can also see your severed hand here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wave the hand", "response": "You wave your severed hand around with your good hand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The wild dogs have better things to do.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "In your good hand you have your severed hand (with a rosary in its grip).", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You describe your surroundings", "response": "Traces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "You are standing under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator that is chugging away noisily.\n\nThe generator makes a really loud noise, and it makes everything shake. You can't even think straight.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the employee entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "A short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nBlinds in the windows prevent you from seeing inside the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The road curves to the north here around a steep cliff. Dead ahead is the scene of a horrific accident - four or five cars are smashed together. Behind the pile-up is another wreck: lying on its side, blocking the entire road, is the carcass of a school bus.\n\nSeveral more cars seem to have stopped short of the accident scene. Most are stripped-down or rusted beyond recognition, but a large, boxy blue sedan looks more recent.\n\nA religious sister is smiling at you peacefully.\n\nYou can also see a siphon pump here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk nun", "response": "\"Aaaah.... hhhello, sssister.\"\n\n\"I'm very pleased to meet you, sir. My name is Sister Christina Therese.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the sedan", "response": "It's an old Dodge. Light blue, scratched and dusty, but still in decent shape. The doors and windows are locked, but the gas cap for the sedan's tank is open.\n\n\"I see you got some gasoline out of my old clunker here,\" Sister Christina observes. \"I hope it can be of use to you, and do please let me know if there's anything else I can help you with,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Talk dogs", "response": "\"Annimmmals...\"\n\nSister Christina gives you a glassy-eyed smile and a slight nod, but no further pretense that she understood you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk bus", "response": "\"Schoooll buuuss!\"\n\n\"I believe I saw somebody moving around underneath that schoolbus,\" she tells you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk the hand", "response": "You mumble something almost comprehensible about your severed hand.\n\n\"Would you like me to hold your severed hand for you while you put it back on?\" Sister Christina offers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk sedan", "response": "\"Gas... in caaarr...\"\n\n\"I see you got some gasoline out of my old clunker here. I hope it can be of use to you, and do please let me know if there's anything else I can help you with,\" she says.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You give hand to the nun", "response": "You offer your severed hand to Sister Christina Therese.\n\nShe takes your severed hand and holds it out so you can steady yourself to reattach it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the hand", "response": "(to your arm)\nYou hold your severed hand against your arm, but nothing happens. Your body refuses to heal.\n\n\"Noooo! Need more braaaains!\" you howl.\n\"Braaaaaaaaaaiiins!\"\n\nYou hear a great number of high-pitched voices somewhere among the wreckage. You can't make out what they're saying.\n\n\"Oh listen to all these pitiable wretches! You must be very hungry, friend,\" Sister Christina says to you. \"Here, you need this more than I do.\"\n\nShe kneels down and pulls back her veil, exposing a scarred head dotted with patches of brittle white hair. A large gash running from front to back reveals that her skull is cracked open and most of her brain is still intact.\n\n\"Go ahead, dear. I know you'll feel much better.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You eat the brains", "response": "(the Sister's brains)\nYou devour the Sister's brains with gusto.\n\nHere we go.\n\nPeter adjusts the straps around his head and then activates his detonator switch. \"This is it, Jack. We're the lucky ones - we can choose between eternal rest and eternal torment.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk peter", "response": "\"How are you doing, Peter?\"\n\n\"Not so good, man. I think this is it.\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Look around", "response": "The road curves to the north here around a steep cliff. Dead ahead\nis the scene of a horrific accident - four or five cars are smashed together.\n\nwalking dead, leering with half-eaten faces and groaning with bloodlust.\n\nPeter is trembling slightly, sweating slightly, smiling slightly.\nHis eyes don't focus. His thumb is ready to release his bomb.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bomb", "response": "(your bomb)\nThe bomb has a lump of plastic explosive, a detonator, and straps\nfor your head. A cord runs down from the detonator to a hand-operated switch. There's a safety toggle, currently in the \"on\" (safe) position, and a trigger button. It's just like the one Peter's wearing, except you asked him to give it a regular detonator switch. Not that you're any more confident about your survival, you just couldn't stand the thought of accidentally blowing yourself up.\n\nYou're still working on the \"on purpose\" part.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You remove the bomb", "response": "(your bomb)\nYou're not wearing that!", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You drop the bomb", "response": "(your bomb)\nDropped.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go outside", "response": "(leaving to the west)\nThe horde is approaching from all directions. There is nowhere to\ngo. The only choice you have is how you will die.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the safety", "response": "You switch off the safety. If the bomb goes off now, not only\ncould it be an ugly mess, but your head might survive to be reanimated.\n\nAn elderly gentleman with no flesh on the right side of his face touches Peter lightly on the ear. Peter doesn't flinch, he just relaxes his thumb. The two of them drop to the ground amid a deafening crack of blood and fire.\n\nThe elderly gentleman gets up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get the bomb", "response": "(your bomb)\nTaken.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the bomb", "response": "(your bomb)\nThat's not something you can switch.\n\nThe elderly gentleman, joined by a gaggle of his companions, turns from Peter's body and reaches for you. You go for your weapon, but what you find in your hand is a bomb trigger. Unthinking, you squeeze it...\n\nThe bomb goes off in your hands, ripping your stomach apart.\nAlthough you're paralyzed by pain, you remain fully conscious. The creatures claw open your ribcage and stick their little fingers into your organs. You wonder why you haven't passed out, and then you realize there was no bomb, and these creatures are only little children, reaching into your abdomen to fish the chewed-up mush of the poor nun's brains from your stomach. When they finish that, they follow up with your own sorry excuse for grey matter...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn on the bomb", "response": "(your bomb)\nThat's not something you can switch.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Toggle safety", "response": "You switch your bomb's safety toggle on.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The road curves to the north here around a steep cliff. Dead ahead\nis the scene of a horrific accident - four or five cars are smashed together.\n\nA horde of monsters is ripping chunks off of Peter's body. You\ncould almost swear their shrieks are cries of frustration that they can't find his brain, that their putrid drool is mixed with tears of longing.\n\nYou can also see your bomb here.\n\nThe elderly gentleman, joined by a gaggle of his companions, turns from Peter's body and reaches for you. You swing your machete, and it gets stuck in a shoulder. Before you can pull it out, five hands grab your arm, and others behind you lift your body, twisting your arm, turning you upside-down...\n\nBut they're not big scary monsters. No, you're the monster... these are just little schoolkids. They couldn't be more than eight years old. There's so many, though, and they want your brains just as much as you want theirs. Headfirst, you're lowered towards their broken little teeth...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You throw the bomb at the zombies", "response": "(your bomb the monsters)\n(first taking your bomb)\n\nYou might, if you were very lucky, blow up one of these creatures before they got to you. No, this bomb is for you to go out with a scrap of dignity - and avoid becoming one of them.\n\nThe elderly gentleman, joined by a gaggle of his companions, turns from Peter's body and reaches for you. You swing your machete, and it gets stuck in a shoulder. Before you can pull it out, five hands grab your arm, and others behind you lift your body, twisting your arm, turning you upside-down...\n\nBut they're not big scary monsters. No, you're the monster... these are just little schoolkids. They couldn't be more than eight years old. There's so many, though, and they want your brains just as much as you want theirs. Headfirst, you're lowered towards their broken little teeth...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "The horde is approaching from all directions. There is nowhere to\ngo. The only choice you have is how you will die.\n\nThe elderly gentleman, joined by a gaggle of his companions, turns from Peter's body and reaches for you. You swing your machete, and it gets stuck in a shoulder. Before you can pull it out, five hands grab your arm, and others behind you lift your body, twisting your arm, turning you upside-down...\n\nBut they're not big scary monsters. No, you're the monster... these are just little schoolkids. They couldn't be more than eight years old. There's so many, though, and they want your brains just as much as you want theirs. Headfirst, you're lowered towards their broken little teeth...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at what you're carrying with you", "response": "You are carrying:\na rosary\na filthy machete\nyour bomb", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wear the bomb", "response": "(your bomb)\nYou fix the straps around your head.\n\nAn elderly gentleman with no flesh on the right side of his face touches Peter lightly on the ear. Peter doesn't flinch, he just relaxes his thumb. The two of them drop to the ground amid a deafening crack of blood and fire.\n\nThe elderly gentleman gets up.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You turn off the safety", "response": "You switch off the safety. If you have the guts to press the\ntrigger button now, you will never be reanimated. Maybe you'll finally know if Peter was right about choosing eternal rest...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You attach the hand", "response": "(to your arm)\nAs you place your hand on your arm, the itching becomes more intense until it feels like a white-hot flame. Cartilage springs from your bone as sinews reattach and flesh crawls together. Within a minute or so your hand is as whole as it was before - that is to say, putrid and threadbare, but attached.\n\nUnfortunately, your headache is worse now.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Status", "response": "Your hand has been fused back onto your arm, and your foot has been fused back onto your leg. You have eaten some Sister's brains, some old yellow dog's brains, and a last piece of your friend Jim's brains. A ringing in your ears like a power drill boring into your skull is the last remnant of a once formidable headache. Now it's only about twice as bad as anything you had while living.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the children", "response": "They're emerging from under the schoolbus and spreading down the road to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "The wreckage of multiple vehicles blocks further passage down the road. The only way back is to the west.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "Some of the children watch hungrily as you leave.\n\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the kitchen door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The dancing children are so densely packed by the kitchen entrance that you can't get past.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You slip into the booth without the children noticing. It seems that second-graders are even more easily distractible when they're dead.\n\nThe Uptown Diner (in the booth)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nA handful of decaying schoolchildren are dancing to the music, temporarily oblivious to your presence. More are joining them as they come in from outside the front of the diner.\n\nEach booth is a formica table with two bench seats upholstered in ripped and faded red vinyl, with a speaker positioned on the ceiling directly overhead. This booth has a blind covering the window. It's crooked and appears to be jammed, but it covers the glass so that you can't tell whether it's broken or not.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the kitchen door.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break glass", "response": "(the east window)\nYou ball your fist up and punch the window. Your fist bounces off. You try again, harder, and pieces of bone splinter from your knuckles. Finally, you pound your head against the window and it shatters pleasingly. You pick the bits of glass from your flesh and drop them to the ground.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You crawl out the window.\n\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nThe windows are smashed, allowing entry to the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You push your way through the oncoming crowd...\n\nThe road curves to the north here around a steep cliff. Dead ahead is the scene of a horrific accident - four or five cars are smashed together. Behind the pile-up is another wreck: lying on its side, blocking the entire road, is the carcass of a school bus.\n\nSeveral more cars seem to have stopped short of the accident scene. Most are stripped-down or rusted beyond recognition, but a large, boxy blue sedan looks more recent.\n\nSister Christina Therese is sitting on the ground, staring ahead with a pure, empty gaze.\n\nA horde of rotting schoolchildren is emerging from under the schoolbus and spreading down the road to the west.\n\nYou can also see a siphon pump here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bus", "response": "The bus rocks back and forth gently from the force of many, many children crawling out from their temporary burial underneath the vehicle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go northeast", "response": "Some of the children watch hungrily as you leave.\n\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nThe windows are smashed, allowing entry to the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.\n\nThis would be a nice quiet place to hide out, but there's no chance of that now that the kids have seen you going back here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You are standing under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator that is chugging away noisily.\n\nThe generator makes a really loud noise, and it makes everything shake. You can't even think straight.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the employee entrance.\n\nIn the parking lot you see a few of the children wandering over from the road.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Examine generator", "response": "The generator is weathered, but nothing is obviously broken, and it's still hooked up to some thick cables that run into the building. It has a large opening on the top labeled \"GASOLINE.\" The gas cap seems to be missing. There's also a button labeled \"IGNITION.\" Down near the bottom, where the motor is located, there's a pull cord with a plastic handle.\n\nThe generator is currently switched on.\n\nThe gas tank is full.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You switch off the generator", "response": "There's no obvious way to turn off the generator. It's probably designed to shut down automatically when the grid power comes back on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "Everything is shaking. You try to turn the handle on the back door but you can't get a good grip on it.\n\nA crowd of mean-looking kids sidles over from the parking lot, ready to tussle. With the kind of bloodthirsty abandon only a dead guy can muster, you take down half a dozen of them and sink your teeth into a soft, moldering head. But more of them pile on top, and you go down at the bottom of the pile...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go southeast", "response": "You head towards the crowd...\n\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nThe windows are smashed, allowing entry to the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.\n\nSeveral dead schoolchildren are milling around. They're wandering over from the front of the diner, and moving towards the back entrance of the diner.\n\nA sudden chill comes over the crowd and their attention focuses more sharply on you. As one, they reach out and begin pulling at your clothes, at your flesh. Little fingers pry your skull open wide and little teeth sink into the rotting remainder of your brain. Your body is laid out flat by many hands, and you become a permanent feast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go inside", "response": "You shuffle along with the moving crowd...\n\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nA small crowd of undead schoolchildren is collected here, a few of them turning your way with blackened drool oozing from gaps between their rotted teeth. They're wandering over from the front of the diner.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the kitchen door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "The dancing children are so densely packed by the kitchen entrance that you can't get past.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection A1: 'After the Fall' by Klaus Nomi. An operatic soprano with a German accent belts out apocalyptic lyrics over a bombastic 80s beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You slip into the booth without the children noticing. It seems that second-graders are even more easily distractible when they're dead.\n\nThe Uptown Diner (in the booth)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nA sizeable crowd of dead schoolchildren is dancing to the music, temporarily oblivious to your presence.\n\nEach booth is a formica table with two bench seats upholstered in ripped and faded red vinyl, with a speaker positioned on the ceiling directly overhead. This booth has a blind covering the window. It's crooked and appears to be jammed, but it covers the glass so that you can't tell whether it's broken or not.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the kitchen door.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection A1: 'After the Fall' by Klaus Nomi. An operatic soprano with a German accent belts out apocalyptic lyrics over a bombastic 80s beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You break the window", "response": "(the broken window)\nYou ball your fist up and punch the window. Your fist bounces off. You try again, harder, and pieces of bone splinter from your knuckles. Finally, you pound your head against the window and it shatters pleasingly. You pick the bits of glass from your flesh and drop them to the ground.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection A1: 'After the Fall' by Klaus Nomi. An operatic soprano with a German accent belts out apocalyptic lyrics over a bombastic 80s beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You enter the window", "response": "(the broken window)\nYou crawl out the window.\n\nA short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nThe windows are smashed, allowing entry to the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the north-west", "response": "You are standing under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator that is chugging away noisily.\n\nThe generator makes a really loud noise, and it makes everything shake. You can't even think straight.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the employee entrance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "Everything is shaking. You try to turn the handle on the back door but you can't get a good grip on it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check what you're carrying", "response": "Your hands are freeA rosary hangs around your neck.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put rosary on the door", "response": "You might as well just drop the rosary.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Scream", "response": "You open your throat, but a warbling moan is all you can produce.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nThe windows are smashed, allowing entry to the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You stumble along, trying to get past the horde. Your dragging foot catches on a rock. With a crack, it snaps right off and you plant your face in the hot asphalt.\n\nThe crowd leaps upon you with squeals of anticipation. They crack your skull wide like an egg and suck out the last rotten remains of your brain, as the world swirls into an increasingly painful blur. Your body becomes a plaything for a band of inquisitive little torturers...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "You climb in the window, and find yourself in a booth.\n\nThe Uptown Diner (in the booth)\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nA horde of decaying schoolchildren is wandering around the diner. They don't seem to notice you.\n\nEach booth is a formica table with two bench seats upholstered in ripped and faded red vinyl, with a speaker positioned on the ceiling directly overhead. This booth has a blind covering the window. It's crooked and appears to be jammed, but it covers the glass so that you can't tell whether it's broken or not.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the kitchen door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You flail around, jumping up and down like a crazy fool. It makes you a little dizzy, but your head doesn't hurt any worse for it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You get out of the booth.\n\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nA horde of rotting schoolchildren is crowding you in. They're wandering over from the front of the diner.\n\nThe sound of barking dogs is coming from the kitchen door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "A heavy chain wrapped around the chrome bars of the door prevents it from opening. But if you wanted to leave the diner, you could just walk south through the smashed windows.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the jukebox", "response": "The jukebox is powered up, but not playing anything right now. An array of panels list the available songs. There is a button labeled with the disc number and side by each one:\n\nA1: After the Fall - Klaus Nomi\nB1: The Voyeur of Utter Destruction - David Bowie\n\nA2: Piggy Smack - Severed Heads\nB2: Big Car - Severed Heads\n\nA3: Mad World - Tears for Fears\nB3: Everybody Wants to Rule the World - Tears for Fears\n\nA4: Thriller - Michael Jackson\nB4: Ghostbusters - Ray Parker Junior\n\nA5: Jerdacuttup Man - The Triffids\nB5: The Spinning Top Song - The Triffids\n\nA6: Love Zombie - Sweet Lickin' Honey Babes\nB6: I'm Not the Man I Used to Be - Fine Young Cannibals\n\nA7: Omnichrome - Three Hour Detour\nB7: Snow Karma - Three Hour Detour\n\nButton B2 looks more worn than the others - you can hardly read the label at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Some of the children watch distractedly as you leave.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA pack of wild dogs is barking aggressively and hopping around, each one tripping over the others to get at you first.\n\nMuffled music can be heard coming from the jukebox in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You head for the dining room, pursued by the dogs.\n\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nA horde of decaying schoolchildren is dancing to the music in a tight clump around the booth, oblivious to your presence.\n\nThe dogs charge in after you and then see the children. For a moment, all creatures are frozen, and then they approach one another with quiet, sideways steps.\n\nWhen another child enters from outside the front of the diner, you're suddenly pushed aside by a twirling melee of claws, fingernails and teeth. Fresh blood mingles with rotten black ichor like a Paleo smoothie gone wrong. The dogs squeal with surprise and terror as more children arrive, then they bolt from the room. The pile of wounded children struggles to its feet and turns its attention on you.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Some of the children watch distractedly as you leave.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nMuffled music can be heard coming from the jukebox in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Pale fluorescent lights illuminate the room. With the power back on, this walk-in freezer is getting cold quite rapidly. For a moment, it offers relief from the summer heat. Then the chill starts to seep in and you feel your body shutting down.\n\nThe freezer door is to the east. It is open and locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the kids", "response": "They're dancing to the music in a tight clump around the booth, oblivious to your presence.\n\nThe jukebox is playing selection B2: 'Big Car' by Severed Heads. A foursquare techno beat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "Some of the children watch hungrily as you leave.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.\n\nUndead children follow you from the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Some of the children watch hungrily as you leave.\n\nPale fluorescent lights illuminate the room. With the power back on, this walk-in freezer is getting cold quite rapidly. For a moment, it offers relief from the summer heat. Then the chill starts to seep in and you feel your body shutting down.\n\nThrough the open freezer door you see a gathering crowd of ghoul-children.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You freeze, hoping the children will forget you and move on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You keep still, hoping the children will forget you and move on.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You squeeze in amongst the swelling crowd in the kitchen.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nSeveral rotting schoolchildren are milling around. They're wandering over from the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You squeeze in amongst the swelling crowd in the kitchen.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA small crowd of dead schoolchildren is milling around, some of them eyeing you shyly with a look of predatory curiosity. They're wandering over from the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Some of the children watch hungrily as you leave.\n\nYou are standing under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator that is chugging away noisily.\n\nThe generator makes a really loud noise, and it makes everything shake. You can't even think straight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "A short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nThe windows are smashed, allowing entry to the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.\n\nA movement over by the shed catches your attention. The children are coming out the back of the diner towards you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northeast", "response": "A short drive from the southwest leads to this empty parking lot. The mountainside is choked with shrubs, obscuring the view of the road from here.\n\nThe windows are smashed, allowing entry to the diner to the west. A paved walk leads northwest around the back of the building.\n\nOver in the back entrance of the diner you see a horde of children shambling your way.\n\nThis would be a nice quiet place to hide out, but there's no chance of that now that the kids have seen you going back here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "You can't go that way. You can go north to the back entrance of the diner, east to the dining room or west through the freezer door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Some of the children watch hungrily as you leave.\n\nYou are standing under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator that is chugging away noisily.\n\nThe generator makes a really loud noise, and it makes everything shake. You can't even think straight.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "That's not something you can close.\n\nThe children shamble a little quicker towards you through the employee entrance. Sensing that you're trapped, they surround you, reaching out their puffy little fingers. You're squeezed from all sides, then you're pulled apart in all directions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go northwest", "response": "You head towards the crowd...\n\nYou are standing under an awning that forms a small shed against the back of the diner. A paved walk leads east around the building past the parking lot. Next to the shed, a door marked \"EMPLOYEES ONLY\" leads south.\n\nA tangle of cables emerges from amid the vents on the wall. The cables snake down to a backup power generator that is chugging away noisily.\n\nA couple of decaying schoolchildren are gathered here, looking for something with enough brains to eat. More are flooding in through the employee entrance.\n\nThe generator makes a really loud noise, and it makes everything shake. You can't even think straight.\n\nA sudden chill comes over the crowd and their attention focuses more sharply on you. As one, they reach out and begin pulling at your clothes, at your flesh. Little fingers pry your skull open wide and little teeth sink into the rotting remainder of your brain. Your body is laid out flat by many hands, and you become a permanent feast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "You poke your head in the window and lift the blinds - but then you see the dense pack of children poking around the booth, looking for that screaming voice they heard. You back out before they notice you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "You push your way through the moving crowd...\n\nThe road curves to the north here around a steep cliff. Dead ahead is the scene of a horrific accident - four or five cars are smashed together. Behind the pile-up is another wreck: lying on its side, blocking the entire road, is the carcass of a school bus.\n\nSeveral more cars seem to have stopped short of the accident scene. Most are stripped-down or rusted beyond recognition, but a large, boxy blue sedan looks more recent.\n\nSister Christina Therese is sitting on the ground, staring ahead with a pure, empty gaze.\n\nA horde of rotting schoolchildren is shuffling back and forth along the road, some returning to the schoolbus and some wandering off again.\n\nYou can also see a siphon pump here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bus", "response": "The bus rocks back and forth gently from the force of many, many children crawling out from their temporary burial underneath the vehicle.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You get in the bus", "response": "There's too many kids coming out of there for you to get past them.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine cliff", "response": "The hills here are steep and treacherous.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cars", "response": "The cars form an impenetrable mess. That blue Dodge sedan looks like it's in reasonable shape, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search nun", "response": "A peaceful woman in her seventies, Sister Christina Therese looks quite dignified in her purple dress. One eye is missing and a dark purple ooze stains her plain white veil and flows out from where her left ear should be. She's sitting on the ground, staring ahead with a pure, empty gaze.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "The wreckage of multiple vehicles blocks further passage down the road. The only way back is to the west.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "The road curves to the north here around a steep cliff. Dead ahead is the scene of a horrific accident - four or five cars are smashed together. Behind the pile-up is another wreck: lying on its side, blocking the entire road, is the carcass of a school bus.\n\nSeveral more cars seem to have stopped short of the accident scene. Most are stripped-down or rusted beyond recognition, but a large, boxy blue sedan looks more recent.\n\nSister Christina Therese is sitting on the ground, staring ahead with a pure, empty gaze.\n\nA horde of undead schoolchildren is shuffling back and forth along the road, some returning to the schoolbus and some wandering off again.\n\nYou can also see a siphon pump here.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the cars", "response": "The cars form an impenetrable mess. That blue Dodge sedan looks like it's in reasonable shape, though.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Hint", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "> Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\n> When Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\n> The Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\n> The Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\n> The Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\n> The Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?\nSelect\n> How do I escape the schoolchildren?\nHow do I get past the schoolchildren from the dining room?\nHow do I get to the generator without getting eaten?\nHow do I start the generator?\nHow do I get back inside the diner after I start the generator?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\n> Cars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\nCars\n> Flashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\n> The Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?\nSelect\n> How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "You push your way through the moving crowd...\n\nA long counter divides the dining room from the kitchen entrance to the west. Booths line the east wall. Many of the windows are smashed, including most of the ones on the south wall, which provide an alternative exit to the locked front door. The floor is scattered with broken dishes and window glass.\n\nAn old jukebox stands in one corner, lit up and ready to play a tune.\n\nA horde of dead schoolchildren is poking around the booth, closely crowded together. Apparently they still haven't figured out where that screaming voice came from.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You shuffle along with the moving crowd...\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA horde of undead schoolchildren is crowding you in. They're wandering over from the dining room, and moving towards the back entrance of the diner.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You push your way through the moving crowd...\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA horde of undead schoolchildren is crowding you in, and moving towards the back entrance of the diner.\n\nMuffled music can be heard coming from the jukebox in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock freezer", "response": "(with the steel key)\n(first taking the steel key)\n\nYou take hold of the key at the end of the chain.\n\nYou unlock the steel door.\n\nMuffled music can be heard coming from the jukebox in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "As you leave, the chain tugs on the key in your hand. You let go and it dangles towards the floor.\n\nSome of the children watch hungrily as you leave.\n\nPale fluorescent lights illuminate the room. With the power back on, this walk-in freezer is getting cold quite rapidly. For a moment, it offers relief from the summer heat. Then the chill starts to seep in and you feel your body shutting down.\n\nThrough the open freezer door you see a gathering crowd of ghoul-children.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You close the door. The freezer continues getting colder.\n\nAccompanied by treble-voiced grunts and squeals of anticipation, small fingers claw at the freezer door. Slowly it opens to reveal the growing mob of little monsters outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the door", "response": "The steel door has a spring latch so it can be locked when it is open. It is currently open and unlocked.\n\nA few small, curious heads poke their way into the cold light, gore and drool mixing as it drips down their chins. Cautiously, the small invaders step into the room and approach you. It's hard to tell if the twitching of their half-fleshed faces expresses terror or glee, but soon their teeth are on you and your eyes are plucked from their sockets. The pain in your head increases as torn fingernails scrape at the inside of your skull...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You squeeze in amongst the swelling crowd in the kitchen.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA horde of rotting schoolchildren is crowding you in, a few of them turning your way, making little kiddie moans of murderous hunger, and moving towards the back entrance of the diner.\n\nYou hear the music from the jukebox come to an end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "You push your way through the moving crowd...\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open and locked.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA horde of rotting schoolchildren is crowding you in, and moving towards the back entrance of the diner.\n\nMuffled music can be heard coming from the jukebox in the dining room.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You lock yourself in the freezer. It continues getting colder.\n\nA metallic scratching sound alerts you to some kind of activity outside. You hear the jangle of a chain as the key turns in the lock on the other side of the door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the door", "response": "The steel door has a spring latch so it can be locked when it is open. It is currently closed and unlocked.\n\nAccompanied by treble-voiced grunts and squeals of anticipation, small fingers claw at the freezer door. Slowly it opens to reveal the growing mob of little monsters outside.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the latch", "response": "The steel door has a spring latch so it can be locked when it is open. It is currently open and unlocked.\n\nA few small, curious heads poke their way into the cold light, gore and drool mixing as it drips down their chins. Cautiously, the small invaders step into the room and approach you. It's hard to tell if the twitching of their half-fleshed faces expresses terror or glee, but soon their teeth are on you and your eyes are plucked from their sockets. The pain in your head increases as torn fingernails scrape at the inside of your skull...", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "Inside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\n> The Schoolchildren\nCars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?\nSelect\nGeneral Questions\nInside the Trailer\nWhen Limbs Fall Off\nThe Pines and the Old Yellow Dog\nThe Pack of Wild Dogs\nThe Nun\nThe Schoolchildren\n> Cars\nFlashbacks\nThe Diner\nWhat do I do with these items?\nAm I stuck?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "How do I escape the schoolchildren?\nHow do I get past the schoolchildren from the dining room?\nHow do I get to the generator without getting eaten?\nHow do I start the generator?\nHow do I get back inside the diner after I start the generator?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "How do I escape the schoolchildren?\n> How do I get past the schoolchildren from the dining room?\nHow do I get to the generator without getting eaten?\nHow do I start the generator?\nHow do I get back inside the diner after I start the generator?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "P.", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\n> How do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\n> I got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\n> How do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\n> How does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?\nSelect\nHow do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\n> How do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\n> I can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\n> What do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?\n1/8: Have you talked to anyone about what makes the undead peaceful?\n\nPress SPACE to return to the menu or H to reveal another hint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\n> What do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?\n1/8: Have you talked to anyone about what makes the undead peaceful?\n\nPress SPACE to return to the menu or H to reveal another hint.\nSelect\nHow do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\n> What do I do in the freezer?\nHow do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go north", "response": "How do I get inside the diner?\nHow do I get inside without being eaten by dogs?\nI got inside, but I got trapped by children!\nHow do I get the jukebox to work?\nHow does the generator work?\nHow do I get to the generator?\nI can't open the back door.\nWhat do I do in the freezer?\n> How do I keep anyone from following me into the freezer?\nHow do I get rid of the key?\nI'm safe and cold, but what do I do now?\n1/9: If the wild dogs followed you into the freezer, you're not ready yet. Get out of the freezer.\n\nPress SPACE to return to the menu or H to reveal another hint.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You squeeze in amongst the swelling crowd in the kitchen.\n\nTraces of rust and mysterious stains line the reflective surfaces here, but do little to obscure the reflection of your gruesome appearance. The kitchen door is east, and there is an employee exit to the north.\n\nA massive steel door dominates the west end of the kitchen. It is open.\n\nA steel key hangs from a chain bolted to the wall.\n\nA horde of decaying schoolchildren is crowding you in, a few of them turning your way, making little kiddie moans of murderous hunger, and moving towards the back entrance of the diner.\n\nYou hear the music from the jukebox come to an end.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the key", "response": "The key to the steel door is chained to a bolt on the wall. There is no way to get it off - the chain is made of stronger metal than the key itself.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the lock", "response": "The steel door has a spring latch so it can be locked when it is open. It is currently open and unlocked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You lock the door", "response": "(with the steel key)\n(first taking the steel key)\n\nYou take hold of the key at the end of the chain.\n\nYou lock the freezer door.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Break key", "response": "You stick the key halfway in the lock and push on it with both hands. It flexes slightly. You pull it back the other way and the metal gives, bending so it'll never fit in the lock. The freezer door is now permanently locked.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You close the door", "response": "You lock yourself in the freezer. It continues getting colder.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You look around", "response": "Pale fluorescent lights illuminate the room. With the power back on, this walk-in freezer is getting cold quite rapidly. For a moment, it offers relief from the summer heat. Then the chill starts to seep in and you feel your body shutting down.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You wait for a while", "response": "Time passes.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "You rest for a while. It's peaceful, but you start to get restless eventually. Perhaps there's something you can do to pass the time.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "\"Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our\ndeath.\"\n\nPraying relaxes you, but it's over too soon.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray", "response": "\"Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our\ndeath.\"\n\nAgain the prayer is over too soon, and your peace dissolves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Dance", "response": "You flail around, jumping up and down like a crazy fool. It makes you a little dizzy, but your head doesn't hurt any worse for it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine rosary", "response": "You're feeling contemplative.\n\nThe rosary has a loop of five decades, or sets of of ten beads, with a single bead separating each decade from the next. A string of four more beads hangs from the loop, with a crucifix at the end. Every bead represents a prayer. You know how to pray the rosary, and when you were alive you used one to calm down. This one appears to be made of cavity-riddled teeth hooked together with small pieces of wire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray rosary", "response": "(first taking the rosary)\nYou hold the rosary in your hands, counting off beads with your fingers. You start with the cross on the end, making the sign of the cross and praying the Apostle's Creed. At the first bead you say the Lord's Prayer, and then a Hail Mary on each of the next three.\n\nThe chill of the freezer blankets you comfortably, encouraging you to continue the prayer.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray rosary", "response": "You enter the loop, which contains five strings of ten beads, each with a single bead in between. Meditating on the Resurrection, you say an Our Father and ten Hail Marys.\n\nJim's eyes flicker open and fix your gaze.\n\n\"Jesus Christ! He's looking right at me! It's him, Peter! I just\ncut my friend's head of with a fucking hacksaw! What do I do now?\"\n\n\"Bring him along, then.\" Marie suggests. \"We'll have good times.\"\n\n\"No fucking way. I'm sticking him in the fridge.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray rosary", "response": "You recite another decade meditating on Christ's ascent into heaven.\n\n\"Look out, Jack!\" Jim shoves you aside and claws swipe the air by\nyour ear. Then he stumbles back as two ghouls rip into his chest.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray rosary", "response": "You contemplate Pentecost, the time when The Holy Spirit descended on the apostles in tongues of fire. You say an Our Father and ten more Hail Marys.\n\nto shrivel in the heat of the bonfire.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray rosary", "response": "You say another Our Father and ten Hail Marys meditating on the mystery of the Assumption, in which the Blessed Virgin Mary is taken up into heaven.\n\nIt's got to be around here somewhere.\n\nchill. \"You think we'll find it before it reanimates?\"\n\n\"Maybe not, Jack. There's a lot of places to hide. We might not\nfind Marie's body at all.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Pray rosary", "response": "You complete the last decade of the rosary. The fifth mystery is the Coronation of Mary, Queen of Heaven. At the end you pray:\n\n\"Hail, Holy Queen, mother of mercy,\nour life, our sweetness and our hope.\nTo thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve\nTo thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this vale\nof tears.\nTurn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward\nus,\nand after this our exile, show us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.\nO clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.\nPray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of\nthe promises of Christ.\"\n\n\"Amen,\" Jim says with you. He gets up and scans the ridge ahead.\nThen he coughs. \"Damn, I'd kill for a cigarette right now.\"\n\nYou and Jim are on a high mountain trail. There's a good view of\nthe desert in most directions, although you can't see the road anymore. You'd expect it to be quiet out here, even when there were cars that worked. But the quiet here is something else entirely. There's no sign of life anywhere.\n\nJim is walking ahead of you, searching for Peter and Marie.\n\nYou're thinking, \"Where'd they go?\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Talk", "response": "\"Where'd they go, Jim?\"\n\nJim turns to you reassuringly. \"We'll find them, Jack. Don't\nworry.\" Then the motherfucker starts singing.\n\n\"One of these mornings, and it won't be long\nAll men will rise and stand side by side\nThen hand in hand, we'll walk to glory\nAnd death will fall before freedom's tide.\n\nI'm going there, to see my father\nI'm going there, no more to roam\nI'm going there, just over Jordan\nI'm going there to my new home.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk trailer", "response": "\"I got this idea. You know how bad the creatures are at opening\ndoors? What if we loosen the doorknob on the trailer? We could trap them inside!\"\n\nTotally ignoring what you said out loud, Jim turns to you reassuringly. \"We'll find them, Jack. Don't worry.\" Then the motherfucker starts singing.\n\n\"One of these mornings, and it won't be long\nAll men will rise and stand side by side\nThen hand in hand, we'll walk to glory\nAnd death will fall before freedom's tide.\n\nI'm going there, to see my father\nI'm going there, no more to roam\nI'm going there, just over Jordan\nI'm going there to my new home.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk yellow dog", "response": "\"Did you ever see that movie, \"Old Yeller?\"\"\n\nTotally ignoring what you said out loud, Jim turns to you reassuringly. \"We'll find them, Jack. Don't worry.\" Then the motherfucker starts singing.\n\n\"One of these mornings, and it won't be long\nAll men will rise and stand side by side\nThen hand in hand, we'll walk to glory\nAnd death will fall before freedom's tide.\n\nI'm going there, to see my father\nI'm going there, no more to roam\nI'm going there, just over Jordan\nI'm going there to my new home.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk marie", "response": "\"What's up with Marie, Jim?\"\n\nTotally ignoring what you said out loud, Jim turns to you reassuringly. \"We'll find them, Jack. Don't worry.\" Then the motherfucker starts singing.\n\n\"One of these mornings, and it won't be long\nAll men will rise and stand side by side\nThen hand in hand, we'll walk to glory\nAnd death will fall before freedom's tide.\n\nI'm going there, to see my father\nI'm going there, no more to roam\nI'm going there, just over Jordan\nI'm going there to my new home.\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go south", "response": "You wander down the trail, continuing to search for your\nfriends.\n\nYou and Jim are on a high mountain trail. There's a good view of\nthe desert in most directions, although you can't see the road anymore. You'd expect it to be quiet out here, even when there were cars that worked. But the quiet here is something else entirely. There's no sign of life anywhere.\n\nJim is walking ahead of you, searching for Peter and Marie.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk the campfire", "response": "You bring up the subject of the campfire.\n\nTotally ignoring what you said out loud, Jim turns to you reassuringly. \"We'll find them, Jack. Don't worry.\" Then the motherfucker starts singing.\n\n\"One of these mornings, and it won't be long\nAll men will rise and stand side by side\nThen hand in hand, we'll walk to glory\nAnd death will fall before freedom's tide.\n\nI'm going there, to see my father\nI'm going there, no more to roam\nI'm going there, just over Jordan\nI'm going there to my new home.\"", "endoftext": true } ]

[ "Surreal" ]

[ "apocalyptic", "blood", "cover art", "fantasy", "fire", "gender-neutral protagonist", "Inform 7", "multiple endings", "mythopoeic", "parser", "ParserComp 2015", "present tense", "pulpy", "second person", "snake", "surreal", "violence", "walkthrough" ]

[ 2, 5, 14, 1, 0 ]

[ { "action": "%", "response": "The walls are smashed. Fires roar in the forest below and the\nnight fluctuates as an incendiary mirage, each star molten, the moon dripping like fat from some roast animal spitted above a pit.\n\nThe sun will never rise again.\n\nDown, the Serpent and the Sun\n\nThe feathered serpent coils before you, greater than any god or any monster. Maimed warriors are crushed beneath its claws. The shrines nearby have been reduced to rubble.\n\nSteps descend on every side into the city, and on every side flames lap their blackened stones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na blade", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Your flesh blisters from the heat. You must turn back.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the forest", "response": "The land is an inferno stretching into the horizon.\n\nIts quills quivering with metallic rattles, plumage outspread around its head for an apocalyptic hood, the serpent rises to strike.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stab Serpent", "response": "Your blade splinters against your foe.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at moon", "response": "The night fluctuates as an incendiary mirage, each star molten, the moon dripping like fat from some roast animal spitted above a pit.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the Serpent", "response": "Its body lithe with hieroglyphic scales, its talons gold, its whiskers living flame, its feathers incandescent, there is nothing above the sky or underneath the earth more terrible. The priests could not kill it with spells and the warriors could not kill it with arms. Even now, after the ultimate banquet, its appetite cannot be satisfied.\n\nWith its jaws unhinged, the beast lunges, fangs snapping shut around you as inevitably as a thunderclap follows a lightning strike.\n\nThere is no pain.\n\nThere is only darkness, more complete than an evening without stars.\n\nYou can see nothing, but the air is fetid, hot. Warm dribblings drizzle from above. The ground is spongy underneath your feet.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You feel the ground", "response": "It is too dark to see anything properly.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Enormous crimson globules leak along the walls, running in channels between numberless gemstones embedded in the rubbery muscle.\n\nA glow radiates from somewhere deep below, its faint brilliance ensnared in the faceted gems like fireflies imprisoned in amber.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "Vaulted with bones. No mortal architecture has ever been more colossal. Mottled webbing between the ribs contracts as though some vast organ were expanding and deflating on its opposite side, pressing against the malleable tissue.\n\nLight streams from a cavity leading below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Shot through with rainbow light. The breathing walls are panelled in stained glass.\n\nYou walk on air, weightless, dizzy. The atmosphere is supercharged with oxygen. Playful colors dart around you like dolphins.\n\nAn opening slashed through the tissue nearby leads back to the ribcage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the glass", "response": "The stained glass is patterned abstractly. Its panes are fused together with hard cartilage. Light streams through the ceiling above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You breathe", "response": "Your mind opens as your own lungs flood with air as pure as innocence, your bloodstream cleansed, your body awakened. Everything has meaning now and hopelessness no longer has meaning.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the tissue)\nYou will have to use force.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Descend", "response": "Bubbles lazily develop and combust in a lake roiling with thick acidic sludge. Its shoreline is littered with corpses and ambiguous organic detritus. Your eyes sting and your brain throbs from the noxious odor.\n\nOne skeleton, arm outstretched, fingers dug into the swampy ground, seems nearly to have climbed free when the acid claimed its life.\n\nEmerging from the lake's corrosive mire, its broken orb half-sunken, is the sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You search skeleton", "response": "If you want to search something, you should examine it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the skeleton", "response": "Its skull rotates to stare at you. It is not living, but neither is it dead.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You talk to the skeleton", "response": "Perhaps you should ASK the skeleton ABOUT something.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the skeleton", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...my sorceries were useless against it... all my studies wasted... my magic impotent... except to bind my soul to this dead husk... although I did not plan to die when I first wove the binding years ago...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask skeleton about the sun", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...I saw it swallow the sun... it rose and closed its jaws over the sun... now the world is plunged in darkness and the sun will never rise again...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the Serpent", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...unkillable... perhaps unkillable... it came from farther than the farthest horizon... from somewhere deeper than the deepest trench... it has always existed... and it will never stop eating...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the binding", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...what I am now... what I experience... is not living...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the sun", "response": "Its circle has collapsed. Little flames leap and dart across its fractured shell. Now that the serpent has consumed the sun, it will continue to degrade until its embers perish and its warmth has been absorbed into the beast.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about yourself", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...even a warrior like you has... joined us here in this... unwholesome pit... nobody can conquer the serpent...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the lungs", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...even the sturdiest armor... has flaws...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about gullet", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...jewels displayed for nobody... vestigal artifacts from its ancient fabrication...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the lake", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...the acid... eats what the serpent eats... perhaps if you could cross it... with some bridge...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the bridge", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...revenge... would be the sweetest thing... my comrades... my arcane studies... might still possess some little use... for you...\"\n\nIts fingers twitch. The acid quagmire churns as bloated deformities buoy to its surface, reanimated by some necromantic urge originating from the skeleton. Its fingers clench into a fist; the floating corpses crush into a mass, a bridge whose length spans the lake toward the sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the maw", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...teeth sharper than any weapon... do not remind me...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bridge", "response": "Its bricks are bones; its mortar, gore.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cross the bridge", "response": "The sun has been shattered. You enter its hollow interior.\n\nThe walls shimmer with scales smoldering orange. Fiery tongues rush upward toward great vents smashed in the ceiling. Liquid gold has pooled into puddles alight with flames whose tendrils beckon like seductive hands.\n\nThrough a fracture above, the bridge spans the surrounding acid, and a fissure cracked into the floor opens toward a sphincter visible below.\n\nYou are unbearably hot.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "More humid than any jungle and flourishing with intestinal flora. Acid trickles from the sphincter overhead into a meandering rivulet. The walls throb and grumble, occasionally opening their pores to pump bile into the digesting morass.\n\nFeeble sunlight from above casts a tropical glow across the mucosa; the ileocecal valve yawns below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine bile", "response": "The bile has joined with other fluids to produce a loathsome stew, clotted with decomposing bodies, foamed with brown and yellow froth.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Stalagmites ascend from the floor. Stalactites descend from above. Fibrous bundles somewhat like cocoons are lumped together in masses, slowly sliding downward toward a dank chasm fringed with palpitating stalks.\n\nThe atmosphere is rank and stygian. The walls bulge with sacs and depressions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the bundles", "response": "When you examine the bundles, you discover undigested bones enmeshed in a syrupy lacing. One projecting femur seems especially slathered in the substance.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take femur", "response": "You wrench the femur loose.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the femur", "response": "Covered in a syrupy lacing.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You can see nothing, but the air is fetid, hot. Warm sludge seeps from above. The ground is muck beneath your feet.\n\nA draught wafts from below.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "You slide outside into the night, dripping with putrefaction.\n\nThe feathered serpent coils before you, greater than any god or any monster. Maimed warriors are crushed beneath its claws. The shrines nearby have been reduced to rubble.\n\nSteps descend on every side into the city, and on every side flames lap their blackened stones.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "Bubbles lazily develop and combust in a lake roiling with thick acidic sludge. Its shoreline is littered with corpses and ambiguous organic detritus. Your eyes sting and your brain throbs from the noxious odor.\n\nOne skeleton, arm outstretched, fingers clenched into a fist, seems nearly to have climbed free when the acid claimed its life.\n\nEmerging from the lake's corrosive mire, its broken orb half-sunken, is the sun. A bridge molded from crushed bodies leads toward it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "Vaulted with bones. No mortal architecture has ever been more colossal. Mottled webbing between the ribs contracts as though some vast organ were expanding and deflating on its opposite side, pressing against the malleable tissue.\n\nLight streams from a cavity leading below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Shot through with rainbow light. The breathing walls are panelled in stained glass.\n\nYou walk on air, weightless, dizzy. The atmosphere is supercharged with oxygen. Playful colors dart around you like dolphins.\n\nAn opening slashed through the tissue nearby leads back to the ribcage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the femur", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...it might serve... for a torch... if it were lit...\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You descend", "response": "The sun has been shattered. You enter its hollow interior.\n\nThe walls shimmer with scales smoldering orange. Fiery tongues rush upward toward great vents smashed in the ceiling. Liquid gold has pooled into puddles alight with flames whose tendrils beckon like seductive hands.\n\nThrough a fracture above, the bridge spans the surrounding acid, and a fissure cracked into the floor opens toward a sphincter visible below.\n\nYou are unbearably hot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Light femur", "response": "Flames caress it until its laced coating blazes.\n\nYou are sweating profusely, throat parched.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Y.", "response": "That was a rhetorical question.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go up", "response": "A gargantuan mouth crammed with fangs sharper than swords. The air is fetid, hot. Warm dribblings drizzle from above. Beneath your feet is a tremendous tongue.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the fang", "response": "You pry the tooth loose from its diseased gumline.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the teeth", "response": "Jammed together into a carnivorous vertical jigsaw, festering with mold, yellow with plaque. A bloody socket gapes in the gumline.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the tongue", "response": "With every step, its squishing surface yields, saliva pooling around your ankles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Cut tissue", "response": "You slash through the tissue with the tooth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the glass", "response": "You smash through the glass panels overhead with the tooth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go upward", "response": "You crawl through the smashed glass into an organ valved and veined. Its chambers are empty. Its tissues are shriveled with age. Dead leaves drift and rustle across the gory floor.\n\nAt its center is an altar.\n\nOn the altar beats a human heart enchained.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the altar", "response": "A soapstone grotesquerie sculpted with obscene tableaux wherein animals and humans, death and birth, are represented with deformed organs and visages ambiguously ecstatic or terror-stricken. The altar is soaked with spilled blood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the heart", "response": "Neither larger nor smaller than the heart beating in your own chest. Iron chains fastened with iron stakes anchor it to the altar, where it disgorges blood with each laborious contraction.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Heart", "response": "SAVEOk.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Stab heart", "response": "You plunge the tooth into the heart.\n\nA bloody spout erupts.\n\nThe chains clench but the heart expands and bursts, a crimson geyser rising. Its chunderous outpouring is unstoppable. Carnage splatters the ceiling, crashes against the walls, the heart spasming as more blood gushes from its core.\n\nA shock travels through the anatomy, organs convulsive.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "Gore pours through the shattered ceiling. The stained glass is awash with blood as the lungs brim with its rising tide.\n\nAn opening slashed through the tissue nearby leads into the ribcage.\n\nThe beast rumbles.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Vaulted with bones. No mortal architecture has ever been more colossal. An alien language carved into the ribs glimmers with indigo phosphorescence.\n\nLight streams from a cavity leading below.\n\nThe walls contract spasmodically.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Your eyes sting and your brain throbs. The acidic lake has begun to boil, scorching the skin surrounding it, blood streaming from the ceiling into its corrosive stew.\n\nEmerging from the mire, its broken orb half-sunken, is the sun. A bridge molded from crushed bodies leads toward it.\n\nA shock travels through the anatomy, organs convulsive.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "The sun has been shattered. You enter its hollow interior.\n\nThe walls shimmer with scales smoldering orange. Fiery tongues rush upward toward great vents smashed in the ceiling. Liquid gold has pooled into puddles alight with flames whose tendrils beckon like seductive hands.\n\nThrough a fracture above, the bridge spans the surrounding acid, and a fissure cracked into the floor opens toward a sphincter visible below.\n\nThe beast rumbles.\n\nYou are unbearably hot.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You go downward", "response": "The intestinal flora shriek and thrash along the walls, struggling to remain above the rising swamp. You must paddle and dive; there is no solid footing; you feel an undertow dragging you down into the sanguine depths.\n\nThe walls contract spasmodically.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Bundles bob, bumping the ceiling, as more blood continues pouring from each pore. The light is almost gone. You swallow mouthfuls and sputter with panic, but there is nowhere to dive save deeper down.\n\nA shock travels through the anatomy, organs convulsive.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You are immersed in darkness and in blood.\n\nYou hold your breath.\n\nThe beast rumbles.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downward", "response": "You slide into the night, newborn in blood. It is all you can smell, all you can feel, all you can taste. The pyramid is slippery with gore as you scramble to distance yourself from the feathered serpent.\n\nIt has risen to an impossible height.\n\nThe star-strewn sky is its deathbed.\n\nBloody teardrops well out from its eyes, striking the pyramid below like cannonballs. Its whiskers are drenched crimson, its plumage saturated, its talons raking canyons through its belly as it claws to fight its traitorous body.\n\nIts scales dissolve. Its skin dissolves. The serpent is a slashed artery running through the universe, and from its broken vessel blood explodes in a diluvian cascade. The fires in the forest hiss and die in the deluge; the landscape streams and steams with its slaughter; and scarlet raindrops drizzle from above.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "About yourself", "response": "You are too exhausted to move.\n\nThe night is still, the serpent dead, the city soaked with sacrificial blood.\n\nYou can see, shimmering in the downpour, a small flame amongst the wreckage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sun", "response": "You lift this last sunshard and cradle it between your hands.\n\nIt is all that remains from the devoured sun.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sun in the sky", "response": "(first taking the small flame)\nYou lift this last sunshard and cradle it between your hands.\n\nThe flame gutters, and fizzles, and fades.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Inventory", "response": "You are carrying nothing.\n\nYou close your eyes and let the blood wash over you.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Heart", "response": "Ok.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the chains", "response": "Not even the serpent's tooth could break these fastenings.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine chains", "response": "Crusted with blood.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You listen", "response": "It throbs, and throbs, and throbs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Unlock chains", "response": "What do you want to unlock the iron chains with?", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go down", "response": "Shot through with rainbow light. The breathing walls are panelled in stained glass.\n\nYou walk on air, weightless, dizzy. The atmosphere is supercharged with oxygen. Playful colors dart around you like dolphins.\n\nA hole has been smashed in the ceiling above, and an opening slashed through the tissue nearby leads back to the ribcage.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "Vaulted with bones. No mortal architecture has ever been more colossal. Mottled webbing between the ribs contracts as though some vast organ were expanding and deflating on its opposite side, pressing against the malleable tissue.\n\nAn opening has been slashed into the webbing.\n\nLight streams from a cavity leading below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the heart", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...its heart... yes... its heart... if its heart were destroyed... it is impossible... and yet it might not be impossible...\"", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You ask the skeleton about the altar", "response": "The skeleton mumbles, \"...an unholy pedestal... a holy pedestal...\"", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "You descend", "response": "The sun has been shattered. You enter its hollow interior.\n\nThe walls shimmer with scales smoldering orange. Fiery tongues rush upward toward great vents smashed in the ceiling. Liquid gold has pooled into puddles alight with flames whose tendrils beckon like seductive hands.\n\nThrough a fracture above, the bridge spans the surrounding acid, and a fissure cracked into the floor opens toward a sphincter visible below.\n\nYou are unbearably hot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "There is no passage through that anatomy.\n\nYou are sweating profusely, throat parched.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "There is no passage through that anatomy.\n\nYour skin is blistering.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go north", "response": "There is no passage through that anatomy.\n\nRed droplets well out from each pore as your crisping flesh contracts.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go south", "response": "There is no passage through that anatomy.\n\nYour blood is boiling, your flesh roasted, smoke pouring from your nostrils and your mouth as you collapse. First one and then another spark ignites on your body, combusting as your brittle skin blazes, your fingers melting candles crowned with undulating flames.\n\nYou can smell and taste nothing but charring meat; you can hear nothing but your own screams; you can feel and see nothing but fire; and then you know nothing at all.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "(first opening the mucosa)\nYou will have to use force.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You hit the mucosa", "response": "You slash through the mucosa with the tooth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "You step into a cavity enamelled in soft pearl. Twin basins, gilded silver and fashioned from alabaster, are teeming with monstrous gametes. Platinum tongs are cradled in a stand nearby.\n\nAn opening slashed into the membrane behind you leads back to the small intestine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the tongs", "response": "You remove the tongs from their stand.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine tongs", "response": "An arm's length, elegantly wrought from platinum.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the gametes", "response": "Like tadpoles as large as children, squirming and thrashing and outfitted with gnashing razor teeth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the gamete", "response": "You lift a spermatozoon from the basin with the tongs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go west", "response": "More humid than any jungle and flourishing with intestinal flora. Acid trickles from the sphincter overhead into a meandering rivulet. The walls throb and grumble, occasionally opening their pores to pump bile into the digesting morass.\n\nAn opening has been slashed into the nearby membrane.\n\nFeeble sunlight from above casts a tropical glow across the mucosa; the ileocecal valve yawns below.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You check your inventory", "response": "You are carrying:\na spermatozoon\nthe tongs\na tooth\na femur (providing light)", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upwards", "response": "The sun has been shattered. You enter its hollow interior.\n\nThe walls shimmer with scales smoldering orange. Fiery tongues rush upward toward great vents smashed in the ceiling. Liquid gold has pooled into puddles alight with flames whose tendrils beckon like seductive hands.\n\nThrough a fracture above, the bridge spans the surrounding acid, and a fissure cracked into the floor opens toward a sphincter visible below.\n\nYou are unbearably hot.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go upward", "response": "Bubbles lazily develop and combust in a lake roiling with thick acidic sludge. Its shoreline is littered with corpses and ambiguous organic detritus. Your eyes sting and your brain throbs from the noxious odor.\n\nOne skeleton, arm outstretched, fingers clenched into a fist, seems nearly to have climbed free when the acid claimed its life.\n\nEmerging from the lake's corrosive mire, its broken orb half-sunken, is the sun. A bridge molded from crushed bodies leads toward it.\n\nThe spermatozoon wriggles free from the tongs, hissing as it jerks and slithers away into some hidden recess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Go east", "response": "You step into a cavity enamelled in soft pearl. Twin basins, gilded silver and fashioned from alabaster, are teeming with monstrous gametes.\n\nAn opening slashed into the membrane behind you leads back to the small intestine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the basins", "response": "The basins are shaped to resemble great clamshells. They are brimming with sparkling water.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You take the sperm", "response": "You lift a spermatozoon from the basin with the tongs.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put the sperm in the bile", "response": "You had better keep that.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Stalagmites ascend from the floor. Stalactites descend from above. Fibrous bundles somewhat like cocoons are lumped together in masses, slowly sliding downward toward a dank chasm fringed with palpitating stalks.\n\nThe atmosphere is rank and stygian. The walls bulge with sacs and depressions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go west", "response": "(first opening the sacs)\nYou will have to use force.\n\nThe spermatozoon wriggles free from the tongs, hissing as it jerks and slithers away into some hidden recess.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You cut the sacs", "response": "You slash through the intestinal lining with the tooth.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the west", "response": "The walls are bubbled with pearlescent pods, warm milk trickling between them to collect in a reflecting pool. Above this pool, suspended from the ceiling by silk threads numbering in the billions, hangs an ovum.\n\nAn opening slashed into the lining behind you leads back to the large intestine.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look at the pool", "response": "Its white still surface is a perfect mirror.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You look in the pool", "response": "If you want to search something, you should examine it.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You touch the pool", "response": "It sticks to your fingers like sap.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go east", "response": "Stalagmites ascend from the floor. Stalactites descend from above. Fibrous bundles somewhat like cocoons are lumped together in masses, slowly sliding downward toward a dank chasm fringed with palpitating stalks.\n\nAn opening has been slashed into the intestinal lining.\n\nThe atmosphere is rank and stygian. The walls bulge with sacs and depressions.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You put sperm in ovum", "response": "With a keening scream, the gamete assaults the ovum, shredding through its mallow gauze with a piranha's frenzy.\n\nThe silk threads twist above; the ovum sways; the gamete burrows gleefully into the wound its teeth have torn apart, disappearing with one last contorted flourish into the violated flesh.\n\nThere is silence.\n\nThe ovum no longer resonates; the pods along the walls no longer hum; the beast's internal organs no longer pulse and grumble. And then there is a light -- gold, small, and bright -- within the gauze, which suddenly erupts as an engulfing conflagration.\n\nThe silk threads melt. The ovum falls blazing into the pool, whose liquid lights as readily as kindling while the pods burst from the mounting temperature. The chamber has become a bonfire.\n\nYou are drenched in burning sweat.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You go to the east", "response": "The stalagmites are fiery columns, the stalactites dripping heated mercury, the bundles charring as the intestinal lining radiates with steaming pockets prepared to combust. Around the chasm below, the stalks are flailing as they roast.\n\nYou choke on smoke and cinders in the air.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "Every membrane is magma. Crisping cells crack to expose igneous metals boiling underneath. A draught from below fans the fires inside even higher.\n\nYour flesh blisters from the heat.", "endoftext": true }, { "action": "Go downwards", "response": "You plunge outside into the night, your skin scorched and smoking. The world is cold and dark and you stumble across the pyramid's level top, seeking refuge amongst the rubble as the feathered serpent writhes.\n\nIts scales are whitehot irons and its feathers streaming flames, its talons glowing pokers and its eyes liquid rubies. It is coiling and recoiling with its teeth sunk in its tail, as though it would seek to tear out its anguish and feast on that emotion like a predator upon its gutted prey.\n\nIn its agony it has forgotten everything.\n\nIt shreds and shreds itself apart, snapping, ripping, roaring until its muscles are tinseled ribbons. With one tremendous tug it yanks its head back from its flesh, its jaw trailing sunbeams and sinews, and in that moment everything is gold, its form unformed, as its coils break and crash across the pyramid in molten waves.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "Wait", "response": "Time passes.\n\nThe molten metal cools, the pyramid gilded, and the fires in the forest below are dwindling.\n\nThe serpent is entirely dissolved.\n\nWhere it once towered, poised to consume the world, something else now uncoils and flickers.", "endoftext": false }, { "action": "You examine the snake", "response": "The serpent is entirely dissolved.\n\nIt is another serpent, newly hatched. Its feathers are yellow with yolk. Its scales are still unhardened, translucent, and through their glass an inner brilliance shimmers like a candle in a lamp.\n\nIt chirps and surveys the surrounding landscape, cocking its head now and then with inquisitiveness.\n\nAt last it stares into the sky.\n\nCalled by some ancient instinct, it sinks one claw, then the next, into the darkened space behind the stars, and gradually begins to climb into the airy vault above.\n\nAs it ascends, the stars demurely dim, the moon draws its invisible cloak, and another dawn blushes from the horizon.\n\nYou cannot see it clearly anymore. It is too far away, and far too bright.\n\nYou shield your eyes against the morning sun.", "endoftext": true } ]