Start of a transcript of Ascension of Limbs Interactive Fiction by AKheon Release 2 / Serial number 201006 / Inform 7 build 6M62 (I6/v6.33 lib 6/12N) Identification number: //27ED8D00-99B1-440B-8DA5-DBC62D9F65BE// Interpreter version 2.1.7 / VM 3.1.2 / Library serial number 080126 Standard Rules version 3/120430 by Graham Nelson Response Assistant by Aaron Reed Achievements version 1/151231 by Juhana Leinonen >about Ascension of Limbs was written by me (AKheon) in the summer and autumn of 2020. The cover art was made by me with Blender. Thanks to (in alphabetical order): - Atrexthiswork (feedback) - Boehmi (playtesting, feedback) - Christopher Merriner (playtesting, feedback) - Dark Star (playtesting, feedback) - DracoWarriorEX (feedback) - Findlestick (playtesting, feedback) - MassDistraction (FIN) (playtesting, feedback) - Mathbrush (playtesting, feedback) - Neobullseye (playtesting) - TexZenRepublic (playtesting, feedback) - Wheretofollow (feedback) >x What do you want to examine? >self I didn't understand that sentence. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] >>> Notes: [self] >self I didn't understand that sentence. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] >>> Notes: [self] >examine self ([self]) The paper itself is flat, nondescript. But as you focus on it, the written letters begin to remind you of something. S-E-L-F. Once, you remember having a purpose in life. Your day-to-day existence was filled with tasks and errands. You owned an antique store in the small town of Farfeningen... The next thing you write will be the name of your store. >Antiques The Antiques antique store... Is this okay? (Type 'yes' or 'no'.) yes Ah, the Antiques antique store. A picture of it appears inside your thoughts. And then, as if read from a travel pamphlet, so does its history. It was first built in the 19th century. Originally a small train depot featuring a slapdash National Romantic look, for a time it welcomed people from all walks of life as they arrived in town. But, eventually, commerce moved elsewhere. The depot was closed, and over the following years progress left that whole region behind. You take another piece of paper and place it on the table next to [self] and write a word on it: [store]. Now there are two pieces of paper on the table. Hint: You can speed up typing by using abbreviations. For instance, you can use the verb 'examine' by simply typing 'x'. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] >>> Notes: [self] [store] >x store Once again, you focus, and the notes and their words evoke something new in you. You remember reading about how the old train depot changed hands and was repurposed multiple times over the years until its drafty interior was put to its latest use: to house an untold number of weird, forgotten objects. It became an antique store. But even this was long before you. You squint as you try to remember when and how you entered the picture. Did you... (1) Inherit the business from an obscure relative? (2) Buy the business on a whim? >1 You received condolences and a note in the mail, informing you of this less-than-thriving business on the other side of the country. And perhaps it doesn't speak well of your character that you not only looked into it, but you stayed. You then settled down in Farfeningen, a place out of sight and mind, a town with no apparent future. But judging from the rooms upon rooms of old things inside the store, the past, at least, was in abundance. Few would have denied it was an unimpressive place of business with its grim, rustic facade and immense amounts of clutter. The inside of the store was crammed, and you couldn't find a formal inventory at a glance either. You couldn't be certain if anyone, even the previous owners, really knew what was inside there. Your first ordeal was to get at least the front of the store in a presentable shape. You cleaned up the cobwebs from the entrance. You then pushed a small desk close to the front door to act as your personal work space. It was easy to see if anyone was about to enter the store from this convenient vantage point. Finally, you sealed any areas that looked like a health hazard for potential customers. In time you would continue to [SEARCH] the place some more. A new verb has become available - [SEARCH] The basic function of most terms is explained with italicized text like this. You can also [EXAMINE] a word to receive more information about what it does. Keep an open mind - some outcomes will only be found with experimentation. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] >search self ([self]) You searched your pockets, finding nothing interesting. Perhaps you meant searching your [mind] instead? The word [mind] has been added on the table. It has a value that signifies your mental state. It can degrade or improve depending on how you progress the story. Do not let it fall down too low. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) >x mind An approximation of your mental state. Mind is a resource that represents your sanity. [SEARCH] mind to randomly regain this resource. Other uses will become unlocked later on. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) >search mind Your feelings at the time were uncertain. You looked around the store, full of debris and dreams left by people who were no longer around. Was it really a good idea to come here? Searching your mind can be meditative. Your mind value can sometimes be replenished by doing this, and you can also get hints on what to do next. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) >x store You glanced around the store and found that it looked a bit like primal chaos. There was so much left to do there. On the plus side, it was quiet, and you had all the time in the world. There was no rush. Every big project had to start from somewhere. Looking at your store will give you a general overview of what's going on there. Later on, you'll also see how popular your store is with customers that week. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) >search store The Antiques antique store had a somewhat peculiar shape. It split into several interconnected rooms which formed a kind of a loop past the entrance. However, ever-present clutter blocked some of the pathways for the time being, making the interior feel rather maze-like. You spent an evening just wandering around the store, trying to learn a route through it from one end to the other. You had set up a humble living space on the second floor of the building. You were not planning on renting an apartment until your finances were in order, and that could still take a while. It was not pleasant, but living in the store was the most practical option for the time being. You can find resources by searching the store. Any unique items you find will be added as a new note you can interact with. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) >search store One of the side rooms had a space reserved for repairing, tinkering and other types of manual work. There was a heavy-duty desk and a sharp electric light set right above it. An old cash register was lying on the work desk, its drawer stuck half-way. A toolbox with a miscellaneous assortment of tools was also lying around, although someone had negligently left it open to gather dust. You cleaned up the workbench and tools, then spent a bit of time working on the cash register. By the end, it seemed to have become useable again. Now you had a place to store your [cash] in case any customers came by. The word [cash] has been added to the table. Its value signifies your current wealth; do not let it run out. You lose cash every 7 turns for rent and similar costs. Later on, you can also use money for various services. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >x cash An approximation of your available money. Cash is a resource that you automatically lose every 7 turns for rent and similar upkeep costs. You get cash by successfully serving customers. Having no cash on payday will end the story. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >x desk You need only to refer to words inside brackets during this story. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >search cash You counted your available money again. Everything was in order. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >search store You put on your gloves and spent hours browsing the piles of dusty items, setting some aside, trying to find logical groups in which to sort things. You put old chairs, lampshades, cardboard boxes and any other stackable things in their own piles. But sometimes it felt like the items moved back into disarray right after you turned your back on them, as if it was the will of the universe itself that the store stay unorganized. The process felt simply overwhelming. In the end, you found nothing but [junk] for your efforts that day. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. Often when searching the store, you will only find broken, unnecessary things. Get rid of the junk with [DISCARD] or [WRECK] verbs. If too much junk piles up, it will be an aesthetic hazard, repelling visitors, or worse. A new verb has become available - [DISCARD] This verb allows you to discard things you no longer need. Anything that is discarded will disappear from the story, usually for good. You can also use this verb to throw out unwelcome people from your store. A new verb has become available - [WRECK] If simply discarding is not enough, you can attempt to destroy something with this verb. The results may be violent. Exercise discretion. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [junk] >discard junk You took an armful of junk and deposited it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >search store Another day, another search. To make a living, you had to separate the wheat from the chaff as far as the terrible mounds of items went. Each trip into the depths of the store could yield something worthwhile, or not. You quickly resigned to the idea that an entire day's work could go to waste if you were just unlucky. You were also somewhat worried about prospective customers. You considered posting an ad in the local magazine to [PROMOTE] the store. A new verb has become available - [PROMOTE] This verb has different results depending on what you use it with. Promoting the store means that you purchase some ad space from a local magazine, increasing customer interest for several weeks. Alternatively, you can use this verb to promote (or unpromote) unique items. Promoted items are put on a special display in your store, and they will usually impress and attract customers, but specific effects vary depending on the item. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 4. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) >promote store You used the store's old rotary telephone to call the local newspaper. You inquired whether you could publish the news about your store as an announcement, or if you needed to purchase separate ad space for it. Yes, the local antique store. It had been re-named and was under new management. Would there be any interest? Could I get this in the next week's magazine already? No? You hung up the phone. There was something weird about the call. You weren't inclined to believe in conspiracies, but this was a small town, and there was a chance the local people were testing you, somehow, with their lack of cooperation. Try again later. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) >search store You finished another round of exploration in the store. Upon returning to the entrance, you noticed that someone had left a card on your desk. It looked like an old, faded business card that had been crumpled and later uncrumpled, featuring a phone number hand-written in a delicate cursive. It said 'You will need my help'. A new verb has become available - [TALK] You can call phone numbers or talk with others using this verb. This can yield new information and clues on what to do. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [number] >talk number You picked up the store's rotary dial telephone and called the number that was left for you. There was a moment's silence, after which a young female voice answered: 'Yes. I will be there'. You opened the front door to a woman in her 20s who was wearing clothing somewhere between frilly and modern. The colors were subdued, which befit her calm character. After a moment of silence, she invited herself inside and began talking: 'I contacted you because this is not an ordinary shop. There are things here that could be dangerous, if mishandled. I will tell you more. Please accept my help...' Whatever she said next drowned in a haze as she gingerly took you by the hand, leading you deeper into the building. Passing from room to room, she related to you her worries about the town and the old local faith. She had lived in Farfeningen her entire life, raised into a mode of thought that seemed so foreign to you. 'Our ways are dying. It has been this way since a long time ago. But... I believe your coming might mean that change is upon this town. You have felt it too, have you not? There is value in this place. Farfeningen used to be a crossroad, a center of activity and civilization. Even today it has a certain pull to it - obscure things just seem to find their way here. This store is full of history, and there are many things here worth unearthing. There is something you could do for us...' You both stopped in front of one of the larger rooms that had a rather cathedralesque shape. It was unlit and half-full of crates, but for a moment you could see a glimpse of what she saw. Perhaps the store could be full of light some day soon. Displays of local significance. Lore, artifacts. An entire community. It was a friendly vision, somehow. And as for your role in it, all it took was separating the wheat from the chaff - finding things of worth and showing them to the world. After she left, you lay awake on your mattress, watching lights pass by the ceiling. Somehow, the doubt that haunted you before was no longer there. You knew you were no longer alone, and there was a new motivation rising inside you. It was becoming clear enough to enunciate. You intended to... (1) Do as she suggested, creating an esoteric museum of local importance. (2) Simply make enough cash to retire. (3) Find forbidden knowledge. >1 While you had only been around a short time, you already felt a distant respect for the habits and history of the locals. They were certainly tenacious people, holding on to their old practices and way of life even as the town's population dwindled year after year. You were sure that dedicating a room in your store for significant local items would garner much appreciation for some. Perhaps this would be an appropriate show of respect to this faith you might never fully understand. One of the main endings to this story requires you to build a large enough display of unique items. Put items on display with the [PROMOTE] verb. After this point, calling the number summons the young woman - allegedly a seer. She will stay in your store for a number of turns, during which you can talk with her about anything you see inside the store. Talk to her about unique items to learn more about their properties. She can also deal with most things supernatural. However, some of these services cost cash. Also, if at any point you seem to be running low on resources, you can try talking about it with the seer. She may be willing to lend assistance if you're on good terms with her. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [number] >search store You found a small [directory] of phone numbers from inside one of the drawers of your desk. It looked a few years old, but hopefully it still wasn't too out of date. The word [directory] has been added on the table. You can contact a recruiting agency to hire an extra worker, buy insurance, get a loan or call the police by using [TALK] or [SEARCH] verbs on the directory. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [number] [directory] >search store Although you searched far and wide, today you only managed to pick up junk that should be thrown away in the trash. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [junk] [number] [directory] >discard junk You took all the junk you could carry and placed it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [number] [directory] >search store You were ready to do another search. One of the corridors was partially blocked because of misplaced items, so you spent some time unblocking it. It was a lot of work, but you were willing to endure it. As a reward for your efforts, you got several pairs of decorative wooden shoes. You were certain someone would be interested in them. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 3. The number of wares inside the store has increased. The word [wares] has been added to the table. Sometimes when searching the store, you will find items that are worth selling - these are represented as wares. Having wares guarantees a sale whenever customers come by. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares] [number] [directory] >promote wares You finally took it upon yourself to rearrange the large, cathedralesque room. You moved away the boxes, brushed away the dust and unboarded the windows to let some light in. You had to use a ladder to reach the room's large honeycomb window, but opening it was worth the trouble. The light shining from above gave the place a whole new atmosphere - now it almost felt hallow. To make a display of items, you took the time to gather several empty vitrines as well as chests and shapely wooden blocks that could be used as pedestals. Several hours later, after putting everything in its place, you finally stopped to take a look. The room still wasn't as glamorous as you had hoped. The arrangement looked homely, somehow asymmetric. Like a mouth with missing teeth. It was clear the room was still lacking something - the display items themselves. You put several pairs of decorative wooden shoes on a pedestal in the cathedralesque room. You can put your ordinary wares on display, but the benefit is smaller than with unique items. If you use the verb [PROMOTE] on this item again, it will be taken off the pedestal. Someone entered the store. She was a woman in her 40s, clad in black. She seemed like the tenured type. After a brief chat, you learnt that her name was Felicia. Felicia entered the store. Customers enter your store every now and then. They will stay around for a number of turns while looking for items to buy. [TALK] to the customer during this time to facilitate their shopping. Customers that are happy with their visit to your store may even become regulars. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [number] [directory] >>> People: [Felicia](6) >>> Promoted: [wares] >talk felicia You began talking to Felicia. You learnt that she was, indeed, an academic. She was not a local, but she had a keen interest in the culture of Farfeningen for its idiosyncratic and rather isolated beliefs. You had to profess that you had only arrived a short time ago and still didn't know much about the topic. Having finished looking around, Felicia selected several pairs of decorative wooden shoes. Then she left the store. Felicia left the store. Your cash has changed by 3. It is now at 6. The number of wares inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [number] [directory] >search store Even after hours of searching, today you only could collect junk that should be tossed out. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [junk] [number] [directory] >discard junk You took some junk and dropped it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [number] [directory] >search store Despite your best efforts, today you only managed to pick up junk that should be thrown away in the trash. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [junk] [number] [directory] >discard junk You took an armful of junk and placed it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [number] [directory] >search store You found a [catalogue] for the local general store from one of the drawers in your desk. It was a few years old, but you suspected it still was mostly up to date. Surprisingly, the catalogue even had a non-expired voucher that gave you one free purchase from the store. The word [catalogue] has been added to the table. You can [TALK] or [SEARCH] the catalogue to contact the hardware store and purchase various tools to your shop. Since you have a voucher, your first purchase will be free, so don't hesitate to try it. The store has a featured item that changes every week. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 5. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] [directory] [catalogue] >x catalogue A few years old catalogue to the local general store. If you [TALK] or [SEARCH] the catalogue, you can purchase various tools to your store. Tools are items with some type of a passive benefit that varies depending on the tool. Someone entered the store. He was a man in his 50s who seemed serious if a bit unkempt. You had a brief talk and found out that his name was Felix. Felix entered the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [Felix](4) >talk felix You began talking to Felix. His sour exterior softened a bit as he started talking. He had lived alone for a long time, and in his solitude he had taken an interest in pursuing various esoteric subjects. He seemed hesitant to tell more. After a while of looking around, Felix found something he liked from one of the shelves. Felix left the store. Your cash has changed by 1. It is now at 6. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [number] [directory] [catalogue] >search catalogue The general store always had a weekly promotion for some item. You decided to call them to get more information. It turned out that the item for this week was... 'A sign! Order a customizable sign for your business. Comes in a variety of shapes, colors and materials. A fancy sign attracts customers like nothing else!' Since you have a voucher, you are able to get this item for free. Will you purchase it? (Yes / No) yes You decided to mail order [sign]. It only took a day for the item to appear outside your store in a neat package. Without further ado, you hung it right outside your store. A new general store item will be available every 7 turns. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [number] [directory] [c?ä?äl?ö?üë] >>> Tools: [sign] >x sign It was a custom-made sign you had made for the Antiques store. You put it hanging outside the store from some small hooks. The sign is a tool with a passive effect. Just owning the sign slightly increases your store's customer interest. Beware, someone could try stealing it if you have a lot of infamy. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [number] [directory] [c?ä?äl?ö?üë] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store While trying to begin a search, you somehow got lost inside your own store. Trying to re-orient yourself took the better part of the day. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [number] [directory] [c?ä?äl?ö?üë] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store While trying to begin a search, you somehow got lost inside your own store. Trying to re-orient yourself took the better part of the day. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](6) [number] [directory] [c?ä?äl?ö?üë] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store On that day, you found an old wooden table with a stuck drawer. After prying it open, you discovered scrambled papers as well a glassy vial that contained some velvety liquid. The papers appeared to be shaky alchemical notes, and you couldn't make sense of them. However, the drawings and general symbolism did suggest to you a theme... resurrection. The unique item vial is now available in the story. You have found a unique item. Unique items have various properties, both positive and negative. Talk to the seer to learn what they are. You can put the item on display using the [PROMOTE] verb. Promoting an item attract customers, but it may have other side effects too - it depends on the item. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 5. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] [directory] [c?ä?äl?ö?üë] [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >talk seer You need only to refer to words inside brackets during this story. Someone entered the store. She was a thin middle-aged woman with pastel-colored clothing. She seemed all business. After a brief chat, you learnt her name was Agnes. Agnes entered the store. Someone entered the store. He was a man in his 40s wearing a fur cap and a thick overcoat. He gave you a firm handshake as he approached, but somehow you missed his name. He must have also been in the business of antique, junk collecting or something akin to that, as he had some items of his own that he was interested in selling to you. The seller entered the store. The seller has entered your store. As the name suggests, he is only interested in selling, not buying. Use the [TALK] verb to see what he has to offer. He can sometimes have unique items on sale too. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] [directory] [c?ä?äl?ö?üë] [vial] >>> People: [Agnes](6) [seller](6) >>> Tools: [sign] >talk agnes You talked to Agnes. She seemed terse and uptight, implying that she had some important reason for shopping in Antiques antique store, but she refused to say more about it. Maybe she was running late for some business meeting. You tried to help her find what she was looking for, but to no avail. Agnes left the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] >>> People: [seller](5) >>> Tools: [sign] >talk seller You took a look at the seller's wares. This week, he was selling 3 wares for 2 gold. Purchase it for 2 cash? (Yes / No) yes You made the transaction. The seller nodded his hat, smiled and left. The seller left the store. Your cash has changed by -2. It is now at 3. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares](3) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >x wares Sellable items of various sorts, they were sure to pique the interest of customers. You had brought them near the entrance so that customers would find them easier. Among them, you saw a woolly wall cloth, a weighty candelabrum and a mirror. You can acquire wares by doing a [SEARCH] of your store. Having wares guarantees a sale whenever a customer comes by. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares](3) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store Another day, another search. You pushed a promising looking chest aside from the other clutter and broke its lock open. All the dust made it somewhat hard to breathe. As a reward for your efforts, you got slightly moldy vintage mannequins. You were certain some collector would be willing to part with their cash to get them. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares](4) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >talk number The seer appeared, looking slightly apprehensive, but once inside she gave you a little nod. The seer entered the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares](4) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] >>> People: [seer](5) >>> Tools: [sign] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >vial The seer examined the vial. 'We have always seen alchemy as a kind of heresy... Especially something of this nature - a substance that is intended to let one bypass the natural limitations of life...' Secret properties of [vial]: -- Resurrecting -- You can [TALK] to the item to use its mysterious power. Secret properties of [vial] (If Promoted): -- Resurrecting -- You can [TALK] to the item to use its mysterious power. -- Acclaim (lv. 1) -- Having at least one promoted item will slightly increase customer interest. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 2. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](2) [wares](4) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] >>> People: [seer](4) >>> Tools: [sign] >promote vial You placed the object in one of the large glass vitrines. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](2) [wares](4) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [seer](3) >>> Promoted: [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store On that day, you entered a large room with cumbersome looking sofas on top of which were carpets, blankets, toys and other miscellaneous household items. They all seemed very old. Placed precariously on top of the pile was a translucent glass bowl with a faint green color to it. It looked like it was ready to fall down at any moment, so you rescued it in your lap. You noticed that just holding the bowl made your mind feel more quiet. The unique item Verum is now available in the story. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](2) [wares](4) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Verum] >>> People: [seer](2) >>> Promoted: [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >verum The seer examined the bowl. 'This bowl has a restless spirit. It is seeking something that could fill it... Mercifully, it is only hungry for wisdom and words.' Secret properties of [Verum]: -- Demands Words -- You can [TALK] with the item to serve its existential desires. Secret properties of [Verum] (If Promoted): -- Demands Words -- You can [TALK] with the item to serve its existential desires. -- Acclaim (lv. 2) -- Having three or more promoted items total will increase customer interest even more. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](2) [wares](4) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [Verum] >>> People: [seer] >>> Promoted: [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >promote verum You placed the object in one of the large glass vitrines. As you put finishing touches to the display, you were paid a surprise visit by the seer. She seemed happier than before, even giving a careful smile at your direction. 'This room... it's really starting to take shape. It will be wonderful when it's complete. It will be a cradle for the local spirit... A place in which to gather and to find your strength.' She tentatively waited for you to say something before continuing. 'This is like a sanctum. An inner sanctum... a small oasis hiding inside your store. Don't you think it deserves a special name?' Would you like to rename the cathedralesque room? (Yes / No) yes The next thing you type will be the new name of cathedralesque room. >sanctum Sanctum... Is this okay? (Type 'yes' or 'no'.) yes The seer considered the name for a moment before nodding quietly. She then walked a small lap around the room, continuing to admire it. 'Do you know the patron of Farfeningen? By tradition, we only call her ??????. Her invisible boughs cast a cooling shade on us, and her roots still live under the soil... I would like to give you something. You can add it to the collection here in Sanctum.' She produced an oddly shaped, gnarled object from her pocket. It looked like a long, misshapen piece of wood that became very pointy and narrow on one end. It looked as if it had been underground for a long time, with long-dried dirt covering it in clumps. When you reached out to take it, some of the dirt broke off, coloring the floor underneath with a dull shade of brown. 'Here. A piece of ??????... You must take it. You... must...' She quickly shoved the item into your hand, almost stabbing you with it. She then quickly turned around and left without saying a word. The seer left the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](2) [wares](4) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >x root It was a filthy, gnarled piece of wood with a pointy end. It didn't seem very special in any way. Secret properties of [root]: -- Historical -- This item is of special interest to the locals. Secret properties of [root] (If Promoted): -- Historical -- This item is of special interest to the locals. -- Acclaim (lv. 2) -- Having three or more promoted items total will increase customer interest even more. Unique items such as this may have special properties to them, both good and ill. These properties can be supernatural - to unveil them, talk to the seer about it. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](2) [wares](4) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] >>> Tools: [sign] >promote root You placed the object in one of the large glass vitrines. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](2) [wares](4) [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >talk verum You picked up the bowl and listened closely to what it wanted. You soon had a basic understanding of its desire... You can perform a trade with Verum. A randomly chosen verb will be disabled for 15 turns, but you will gain forbidden knowledge. Do you agree? (Yes / No) yes You suddenly felt nauseous. Something was rising up your throat, trying to escape from your mouth. You retched again and again in front of the bowl, and soon something gently, nearly inaudibly, landed inside. When you were finally able to take a look, you saw something very faint, like a layer of mist just barely heavier than air. Or maybe it was the ghost of feedback idly circling around the glassy edges of the bowl. You had lent one of your words to it, and it seemed to be delighting in the new knowledge that filled it. Someone entered the store. She was a young woman, possibly in her 20s. Her hair was blonde, her demeanor suggested openness and joy. After a brief introduction, you learnt that her name was Hanna. Hanna entered the store. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 1. You have gained insight. The word [insight] has been added to the table. Collecting this resource is necessary to reach some of the main endings to this story. It offers passive benefits as well - among other things, it increases your chances to find items when searching the store, and it protects against curses as well. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](4) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [Hanna](6) >>> Promoted: [v?ër?üm?] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >talk hanna Words had no meaning at that time. The [TALK] verb is blocked at the moment. It will become available again in a few turns. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](4) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [Hanna](5) >>> Promoted: [v?ër?üm?] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >x hanna A young woman with blonde hair and an open demeanor. Apparently, she was a student at a nearby town. Hanna possesses the following perks: - Suspectible... Mental openness that leads to vulnerability for corrupting influences. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](4) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [Hanna](4) >>> Promoted: [v?ër?üm?] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store Once again, you set out searching for interesting things. You unlocked one of the side rooms, intent on getting it organized at last. The chaos in front of you was disheartening. As a reward for your efforts, you got scarves decorated with traditional patterns. They were in a good enough condition to put on sale. Someone entered the store. Whoever it was, he quickly wandered into the shadows, clutching something in his hands. Every once in a while he did a small peek, showing his face. His eyes were steep with cryptic emotion. The creep entered the store. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [Hanna](3) [creep](6) >>> Promoted: [v?ër?üm?] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >x creep The man was hiding around the store while tightly holding his hands around some object. He glanced at your direction every now and then, his eyes steep with cryptic emotion. This man is no regular customer. He could be trouble if you let him linger. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [Hanna](2) [creep](5) >>> Promoted: [v?ër?üm?] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >discard creep You are about to enter a physical altercation with the creep. This is always an action that comes with some risk. Before you choose whether to engage, consider the following: You were feeling hesitant. Overall chance of success: low. Do you wish to proceed? (Yes / No) no >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [Hanna] [creep](4) >>> Promoted: [v?ër?üm?] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >search creep You were curious as to what exactly the man was holding. You tried to confront him about it, but he eluded you by moving past corners and shelves. Hanna left the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [creep](3) >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >z Such an interaction is not available at this time. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 0. Your cash is alarmingly low. If you do not get more cash in 6 turns, the story will end. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [creep](2) >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store Although you searched far and wide, today you only could collect junk that should be tossed out. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [junk] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [creep] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >discard junk You took some junk and dropped it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. Before the odd man left, he dropped something on your desk. He then ran away, laughing loudly. The egg is now available in the story. The creep left the store. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [egg] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >x egg It was a decorative item in the shape of an egg made out of glass and some metal. It had the color of amber, except with a tint of sickly green to it. You felt nervous looking at it. Secret properties of [egg]: - ??? >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [egg] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >talk number Words had no meaning at that time. The [TALK] verb is blocked at the moment. It will become available again in a few turns. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [egg] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store You spent the day trying to break open a chest. But it turned out to be empty. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [egg] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store You spent the day trying to unlock a stuck cabinet. In the end, it turned out to be empty. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash] [wares](5) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [egg] >>> Promoted: [Verum] [vial] [root] >>> Tools: [sign] >search store You tried searching the store, but were constantly distracted by the feeling of someone looking over your shoulder. Your have ran out of cash. (Is this where this story must end? When did it all go so wrong? A storm is rising. A cold wind sweeps over the table, throwing almost everything on it away. In the end, nothing remains but a single note...) >>> Verbs: [ACCEPT] >>> Notes: [defeat] >accept defeat Without the means to pay rent, you lost the store, and with it your last material possessions. You became destitute, shattered. *** Ending I - Impoverished *** Would you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, QUIT, UNDO the last command or list your ACHIEVEMENTS? > achievements Your achievements in Ascension of Limbs thus far ... 1: Local color --- You met the seer for the first time. 2: ??? 3: Ending I - Impoverished --- You ran out of money. 4: ??? 5: ??? 6: ??? 7: ??? 8: ??? 9: ??? 10: ??? 11: ??? 12: ??? You have unlocked 2 achievements out of 12. Would you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, QUIT, UNDO the last command or list your ACHIEVEMENTS? > restart You place a neatly torn piece of paper in the shape of a square on the table in front of you. With a shaking hand, you write a single word on it. Perhaps this will bring clarity. Ascension of Limbs Interactive Fiction by AKheon Release 2 / Serial number 201006 / Inform 7 build 6M62 (I6/v6.33 lib 6/12N) There is a table, and on the table there is a paper that says [self]. It is not much, but it is a starting point - your means to trace back all that has transpired. To progress, write commands using the bracketed words that are listed below. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] >>> Notes: [self] *** Run-time problem P48: Error handling external file. >x self ([self]) The paper itself is flat, nondescript. But as you focus on it, the written letters begin to remind you of something. S-E-L-F. Once, you remember having a purpose in life. Your day-to-day existence was filled with tasks and errands. You owned an antique store in the isolated town of Förfeninnen... The next thing you write will be the name of your store. >antiques The Antiques antique store... Is this okay? (Type 'yes' or 'no'.) yes Ah, the Antiques antique store. A picture of it appears inside your thoughts. And then, as if read from a travel pamphlet, so does its history. It was first built in the 19th century. Originally a small train depot featuring a slapdash National Romantic look, for a time it welcomed people from all walks of life as they arrived in town. But, eventually, commerce moved elsewhere. The depot was closed, and over the following years progress left that whole region behind. You take another piece of paper and place it on the table next to [self] and write a word on it: [store]. Now there are two pieces of paper on the table. Hint: You can speed up typing by using abbreviations. For instance, you can use the verb 'examine' by simply typing 'x'. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] >>> Notes: [self] [store] >x store Once again, you focus, and the notes and their words evoke something new in you. You remember reading about how the old train depot changed hands and was repurposed multiple times over the years until its drafty interior was put to its latest use: to house an untold number of weird, forgotten objects. It became an antique store. But even this was long before you. You squint as you try to remember when and how you entered the picture. Did you... (1) Inherit the business from an obscure relative? (2) Buy the business on a whim? >2 You stumbled upon the store by accident while passing through the area. The building was put on compulsory sale. Abandoned. A cheap purchase. Something in that moment simply urged you to seal the deal. After all, what did you stand to lose? You then settled down in Förfeninnen, a place out of sight and mind, a town with no apparent future. But judging from the rooms upon rooms of old things inside the store, the past, at least, was in abundance. Few would have denied it was an unimpressive place of business with its grim, rustic facade and immense amounts of clutter. The inside of the store was crammed, and you couldn't find a formal inventory at a glance either. You couldn't be certain if anyone, even the previous owners, really knew what was inside there. Your first ordeal was to get at least the front of the store in a presentable shape. You cleaned up the cobwebs from the entrance. You then pushed a small desk close to the front door to act as your personal work space. It was easy to see if anyone was about to enter the store from this convenient vantage point. Finally, you sealed any areas that looked like a health hazard for potential customers. In time you would continue to [SEARCH] the place some more. A new verb has become available - [SEARCH] The basic function of most terms is explained with italicized text like this. You can also [EXAMINE] a word to receive more information about what it does. Keep an open mind - some outcomes will only be found with experimentation. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] >search self ([self]) You searched your pockets, finding nothing interesting. Perhaps you meant searching your [mind] instead? The word [mind] has been added on the table. It has a value that signifies your mental state. It can degrade or improve depending on how you progress the story. Do not let it fall down too low. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) >search mind Your feelings at the time were uncertain. You looked around the store, full of debris and dreams left by people who were no longer around. Was it really a good idea to come here? Searching your mind can be meditative. Your mind value can sometimes be replenished by doing this, and you can also get hints on what to do next. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) >search store The Antiques antique store had a somewhat peculiar shape. It split into several interconnected rooms which formed a kind of a loop past the entrance. However, ever-present clutter blocked some of the pathways for the time being, making the interior feel rather maze-like. You spent an evening just wandering around the store, trying to learn a route through it from one end to the other. You had set up a humble living space on the second floor of the building. You were not planning on renting an apartment until your finances were in order, and that could still take a while. It was not pleasant, but living in the store was the most practical option for the time being. You can find resources by searching the store. Any unique items you find will be added as a new note you can interact with. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) >search store One of the side rooms had a space reserved for repairing, tinkering and other types of manual work. There was a heavy-duty desk and a sharp electric light set right above it. An old cash register was lying on the work desk, its drawer stuck half-way. A toolbox with a miscellaneous assortment of tools was also lying around, although someone had negligently left it open to gather dust. You cleaned up the workbench and tools, then spent a bit of time working on the cash register. By the end, it seemed to have become useable again. Now you had a place to store your [cash] in case any customers came by. The word [cash] has been added to the table. Its value signifies your current wealth; do not let it run out. You lose cash every 7 turns for rent and similar costs. Later on, you can also use money for various services. >>> Verbs: [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >search store You put on your gloves and spent hours browsing the piles of dusty items, setting some aside, trying to find logical groups in which to sort things. You put old chairs, lampshades, cardboard boxes and any other stackable things in their own piles. But sometimes it felt like the items moved back into disarray right after you turned your back on them, as if it was the will of the universe itself that the store stay unorganized. The process felt simply overwhelming. In the end, you found nothing but [junk] for your efforts that day. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. Often when searching the store, you will only find broken, unnecessary things. Get rid of the junk with [DISCARD] or [WRECK] verbs. If too much junk piles up, it will be an aesthetic hazard, repelling visitors, or worse. A new verb has become available - [DISCARD] This verb allows you to discard things you no longer need. Anything that is discarded will disappear from the story, usually for good. You can also use this verb to throw out unwelcome people from your store. A new verb has become available - [WRECK] If simply discarding is not enough, you can attempt to destroy something with this verb. The results may be violent. Exercise discretion. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [junk] >discard junk You took all the junk you could carry and placed it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >search store Another day, another search. To make a living, you had to separate the wheat from the chaff as far as the terrible mounds of items went. Each trip into the depths of the store could yield something worthwhile, or not. You quickly resigned to the idea that an entire day's work could go to waste if you were just unlucky. You were also somewhat worried about prospective customers. You considered posting an ad in the local magazine to [PROMOTE] the store. A new verb has become available - [PROMOTE] This verb has different results depending on what you use it with. Promoting the store means that you purchase some ad space from a local magazine, increasing customer interest for several weeks. Alternatively, you can use this verb to promote (or unpromote) unique items. Promoted items are put on a special display in your store, and they will usually impress and attract customers, but specific effects vary depending on the item. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >promote store You used the store's old rotary telephone to call the local newspaper. You inquired whether you could publish the news about your store as an announcement, or if you needed to purchase separate ad space for it. Yes, the local antique store. It had been re-named and was under new management. Would there be any interest? Could I get this in the next week's magazine already? No? You hung up the phone. There was something weird about the call. You weren't inclined to believe in conspiracies, but this was a small town, and there was a chance the local people were testing you, somehow, with their lack of cooperation. Try again later. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >promote self ([self]) But you were your own boss already. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) >search store You finished another round of exploration in the store. Upon returning to the entrance, you noticed that someone had left a card on your desk. It looked like an old, faded business card that had been crumpled and later uncrumpled, featuring a phone number hand-written in a delicate cursive. It said 'You will need my help'. A new verb has become available - [TALK] You can call phone numbers or talk with others using this verb. This can yield new information and clues on what to do. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 4. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [number] >talk number You picked up the store's rotary dial telephone and called the number that was left for you. There was a moment's silence, after which a young female voice answered: 'Yes. I will be there'. You opened the front door to a woman in her 20s who was wearing clothing somewhere between frilly and modern. The colors were subdued, which befit her calm character. After a moment of silence, she invited herself inside and began talking: 'I contacted you because this is not an ordinary shop. There are things here that could be dangerous, if mishandled. I will tell you more. Please accept my help...' Whatever she said next drowned in a haze as she gingerly took you by the hand, leading you deeper into the building. Passing from room to room, she related to you her worries about the town and the old local faith. She had lived in Förfeninnen her entire life, raised into a mode of thought that seemed so foreign to you. 'Our ways are dying. It has been this way since a long time ago. But... I believe your coming might mean that change is upon this town. You have felt it too, have you not? There is value in this place. Förfeninnen used to be a crossroad, a center of activity and civilization. Even today it has a certain pull to it - obscure things just seem to find their way here. This store is full of history, and there are many things here worth unearthing. There is something you could do for us...' You both stopped in front of one of the larger rooms that had a rather cathedralesque shape. It was unlit and half-full of crates, but for a moment you could see a glimpse of what she saw. Perhaps the store could be full of light some day soon. Displays of local significance. Lore, artifacts. An entire community. It was a friendly vision, somehow. And as for your role in it, all it took was separating the wheat from the chaff - finding things of worth and showing them to the world. After she left, you lay awake on your mattress, watching lights pass by the ceiling. Somehow, the doubt that haunted you before was no longer there. You knew you were no longer alone, and there was a new motivation rising inside you. It was becoming clear enough to enunciate. You intended to... (1) Do as she suggested, creating an esoteric museum of local importance. (2) Simply make enough cash to retire. (3) Find forbidden knowledge. >3 You had often felt it when moving through the hallways of your store late at night. There was something there that was not entirely of this world. Books written in languages that shouldn't exist. Every once in a while, a weird chill, a whisper. As if there was some power that wanted to make itself known in this place. Although you had only been around a short time, a small part of you desired to understand, no matter the cost. One of the main endings to this story requires you to interact with powerful items and gather forbidden knowledge - or [insight]. Keep searching the store, and if you find any items that speak to you, listen to what they say. After this point, calling the number summons the young woman - allegedly a seer. She will stay in your store for a number of turns, during which you can talk with her about anything you see inside the store. Talk to her about unique items to learn more about their properties. She can also deal with most things supernatural. However, some of these services cost cash. Also, if at any point you seem to be running low on resources, you can try talking about it with the seer. She may be willing to lend assistance if you're on good terms with her. Someone entered the store. He was a man in his 50s who seemed serious if a bit unkempt. You had a brief talk and found out that his name was Felix. Felix entered the store. Customers enter your store every now and then. They will stay around for a number of turns while looking for items to buy. [TALK] to the customer during this time to facilitate their shopping. Customers that are happy with their visit to your store may even become regulars. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [number] >>> People: [Felix](4) >talk felix You began talking to Felix. His sour exterior softened a bit as he started talking. He had lived alone for a long time, and in his solitude he had taken an interest in pursuing various esoteric subjects. He seemed hesitant to tell more. After a while of looking around, Felix found something he liked from one of the shelves. Felix left the store. Your cash has changed by 1. It is now at 5. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] >search store You found a small [directory] of phone numbers from inside one of the drawers of your desk. It looked a few years old, but hopefully it still wasn't too out of date. The word [directory] has been added on the table. You can contact a recruiting agency to hire an extra worker, buy insurance, get a loan or call the police by using [TALK] or [SEARCH] verbs on the directory. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] [directory] >x directory A small directory that listed the phone numbers of local businesses. If you [TALK] or [SEARCH] the directory, you are able to use a variety of useful local services. You can hire an extra worker, buy insurance, get a loan or call the police. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] [directory] >search directory You folded the directory open on your desk. A few useful numbers caught your eye almost immediately. You decided to... (1) call a recruiting agency and hire an extra worker. (2) call an insurance firm and get your store and items insured. (3) get a loan. (4) call the police. (5) not call anyone. Please type a number indicating your choice. >5 You decided against it. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [number] [directory] >search store You were ready to do another search. You unlocked one of the side rooms, intent on getting it organized at last. It was a lot of work, but you were willing to endure it. As a reward for your efforts, you got collection of porcelain dolls. Some enthusiast would most likely be interested in those. The number of wares inside the store has increased. The word [wares] has been added to the table. Sometimes when searching the store, you will find items that are worth selling - these are represented as wares. Having wares guarantees a sale whenever customers come by. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](5) [wares] [number] [directory] >x wares Sellable items of various sorts, they were sure to pique the interest of customers. You had brought them near the entrance so that customers would find them easier. Among them, you saw collection of porcelain dolls. You can acquire wares by doing a [SEARCH] of your store. Having wares guarantees a sale whenever a customer comes by. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 4. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] >search store You found a [catalogue] for the local general store from one of the drawers in your desk. It was a few years old, but you suspected it still was mostly up to date. Surprisingly, the catalogue even had a non-expired voucher that gave you one free purchase from the store. The word [catalogue] has been added to the table. You can [TALK] or [SEARCH] the catalogue to contact the hardware store and purchase various tools to your shop. Since you have a voucher, your first purchase will be free, so don't hesitate to try it. The store has a featured item that changes every week. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >search catalogue The general store always had a weekly promotion for some item. You decided to call them to get more information. It turned out that the item for this week was... 'An axe! A hickory carpenter's axe is an useful tool for wood work! And why not self-defense too!' Since you have a voucher, you are able to get this item for free. Will you purchase it? (Yes / No) no >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >search store You spent the day trying to unlock a chest. But it turned out to be empty. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >search store While trying to begin a search, you somehow got lost inside your own store. Trying to re-orient yourself took the better part of the day. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >search store On that day, your search led you to a dark, cramped room that you couldn't imagine held anything valuable. It gave you the impression of a broom closet, except it was half-full of personal items of different types. Small portraits, baubles, cheap accessories. Somewhere underneath them all, a piggy bank of the sort that could have belonged to a child at some point. Its color was that of smeared clay and it felt strangely heavy in your hands. On its side read 'REED'. The unique item Reed is now available in the story. You have found a unique item. Unique items have various properties, both positive and negative. Talk to the seer to learn what they are. You can put the item on display using the [PROMOTE] verb. Promoting an item attract customers, but it may have other side effects too - it depends on the item. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [Reed] >x reed It is a small terracotta piggy bank that someone named 'Reed'. It looked hungry and sad, almost as if urging its holder to feed it coins Secret properties of [Reed]: - ??? Unique items such as this may have special properties to them, both good and ill. These properties can be supernatural - to unveil them, talk to the seer about it. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [Reed] >talk number The seer appeared, looking slightly apprehensive, but once inside she gave you a little nod. The seer entered the store. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 3. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Reed] >>> People: [seer](5) >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >reed The seer examined the piggy bank. 'A repulsive, cursed thing. ????????! It speaks to me... It wants to feed. You should not leave it out in the open for too long'. Secret properties of [Reed]: -- Demands Cash -- You can [TALK] with the item to serve its greedy desires. -- Corrupting Influence (lv. 1) -- By simply being in your store, this item will slowly drive people into obsession. Secret properties of [Reed] (If Promoted): -- Demands Cash -- You can [TALK] with the item to serve its greedy desires. -- Corrupting Influence (lv. 2) -- The item's corrupting influence is now stronger. -- Acclaim (lv. 1) -- Having at least one promoted item will slightly increase customer interest. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Reed] >>> People: [seer](4) >wreck reed You took Reed to your work bench and swung your hammer at it. A terrible squeal pierced your ears, causing you to reel back and cover your head with your hands for a moment. When you opened your eyes again, the piggy bank was gone - there was only an odd strain of dark red liquid leading deeper into the store. Small pieces of terracotta and numerous coins were also scattered on the floor. Your cash has changed by 1. It is now at 4. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [seer](3) >search store While trying to begin a search, you somehow got lost inside your own store. Trying to re-orient yourself took the better part of the day. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [seer](2) >search store On that day, you entered one of the side rooms with a large amount of piled up chairs. Chairs filled all the corners, and some of them had even been lifted on the walls on large metal prongs. In half-lit darkness, they almost looked like a hostile landscape which to overcome. In front of all the chairs was a table with a single item on it: a curious bronze globe, around 25 centimeters wide. It was like a map of the world, except none of the continents or oceans seemed familiar to you... The unique item Oulent is now available in the story. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [Oulent] >>> People: [seer] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >oulent The seer examined the globe. 'Ah, I know this item. My parents simply called it Oulent. I have seen other globes exactly like it in the past, but each one that exists is different...' Secret properties of [Oulent]: -- Random effect -- The effects of this item are different in each story. -- Demands Blood -- You can [TALK] with the item to serve its cruel desires. -- Breeds Shadows (lv. 1) -- By simply being in your store, this item will rarely generate a shadow. Secret properties of [Oulent] (If Promoted): -- Random effect -- The effects of this item are different in each story. -- Demands Blood -- You can [TALK] with the item to serve its cruel desires. -- Breeds Shadows (lv. 2) -- The item will generate shadows more often. -- Acclaim (lv. 1) -- Having at least one promoted item will slightly increase customer interest. The seer left the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Notes: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [Oulent] >promote oulent You finally took it upon yourself to rearrange the large, cathedralesque room. You moved away the boxes, brushed away the dust and unboarded the windows to let some light in. You had to use a ladder to reach the room's large honeycomb window, but opening it was worth the trouble. The light shining from above gave the place a whole new atmosphere - now it almost felt hallow. To make a display of items, you took the time to gather several empty vitrines as well as chests and shapely wooden blocks that could be used as pedestals. Several hours later, after putting everything in its place, you finally stopped to take a look. The room still wasn't as glamorous as you had hoped. The arrangement looked homely, somehow asymmetric. Like a mouth with missing teeth. It was clear the room was still lacking something - the display items themselves. You placed the object in one of the large glass vitrines. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](4) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >talk oulent You went and focused into Oulent. A subtle sensation soon took over you. You received an understanding of its deepest desire... A victim. You can perform a trade with Oulent. In exchange for attacking and slaying a random person inside the store, you will receive forbidden knowledge. Do you agree?(Yes / No) no Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 3. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search store Another day, another search. One of the side rooms was unlit, so you had to fetch a flashlight to see anything at all. Little by little, you managed to bring some order into the chaos. As a reward for your efforts, you got miscellaneous works of poetry and philosophy. You were certain someone would be interested in them. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search store Although you searched far and wide, today you only managed to pick up junk that should be discarded. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [junk] [wares](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard junk You took some junk and deposited it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. Someone entered the store. He was a man in his 40s wearing a fur cap and a thick overcoat. He gave you a firm handshake as he approached, but somehow you missed his name. He must have also been in the business of antique, junk collecting or something akin to that, as he had some items of his own that he was interested in selling to you. The seller entered the store. The seller has entered your store. As the name suggests, he is only interested in selling, not buying. Use the [TALK] verb to see what he has to offer. He can sometimes have unique items on sale too. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](5) [cash](3) [wares](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [seller](6) >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >talk oulent You went and focused into Oulent. A subtle sensation soon took over you. You received an understanding of its deepest desire... A victim. You can perform a trade with Oulent. In exchange for attacking and slaying a random person inside the store, you will receive forbidden knowledge. Do you agree?(Yes / No) yes You are about to enter a physical altercation with the seller. This is always an action that comes with some risk. Before you choose whether to engage, consider the following: You were feeling hesitant. Your intent was to kill. Overall chance of success: medium. Do you wish to proceed? (Yes / No) yes You quietly grabbed a hammer from the side table and gathered your focus for a moment. Then, it was time. Before he could respond to the threat, you lifted up your hammer and beat him to death with it. ...You felt utterly nauseous. You felt a sigh of gratitude emanating inside the store. You did well... Your mind value has gone down! It is now at 4. When your mind-value lowers, the most recent used verb becomes temporarily blocked. You can see which verbs are blocked if the letters look different. You have gained insight. The word [insight] has been added to the table. Collecting this resource is necessary to reach some of the main endings to this story. It offers passive benefits as well - among other things, it increases your chances to find items when searching the store, and it protects against curses as well. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](4) [cash](3) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [seller](dead) >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >x insight An approximation of the forbidden knowledge you have acquired. Collecting this resource is necessary to reach some of the main endings to this story. It offers passive benefits as well - among other things, it increases your chance to find items when searching the store, and it protects against curses as well. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](4) [cash](3) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> People: [seller](dead) >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard seller There was a body, and it was necessary to get rid of it. This much you knew. You thought about your next step hard, but there wasn't time to think about it for too long. You placed a plastic tarpaulin on the floor of your workshop, dragged the corpse on it and used your hacksaw to separate the limbs and the head from the body. Every step of the way, you kept reminding yourself that this was all necessary. The body needed to become more portable. It was still slow, grueling work and your arms felt weak. You would never forget the sound of hacksaw on bone. In the dead of night, you put the body parts into several small carpet bags and started walking down the old railroad track. You couldn't see far ahead of you, but you knew that this way led outside Förfeninnen to some place even more lost and forgotten. The track itself had never been finished. The road would simply run out after a long, quiet walk on the withered planks. No more wood, no more steel - just an overgrown plateau with a hypnotic downward slant and what seemed like a quiet nothingness awaiting beyond. You were now there, and it was just like you had imagined. Your senses could not penetrate anything past a certain point. Whatever passed this outer rim and fell into the devouring notch would be gone for good. This you could be certain of. You emptied your bags and allowed the body parts that were inside to simply roll down into whatever afterlife awaited them. A second trip afterwards was necessary because you didn't have the strength to carry the entire body at once. It was already early morning when you were done. Then you went back to work, once again standing behind you work desk as if nothing at all had happened. Your mind value has gone down! It is now at 3. Your mind value has gone under 4. Having a low mind value changes certain rules in the game, some to your benefit, some to your detriment. Be mindful of this. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search self ([self]) There was nothing interesting on your person. Perhaps you meant searching your mind instead? Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 2. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search mind Your cash was running pretty low, and getting a new loan wasn't an option either. Perhaps the seer might be willing to help you out with your cash problem, just this once? You closed your eyes and prayed for understanding. It never came. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >talk What do you want to talk? >number Words had no meaning at that time. The [TALK] verb is blocked at the moment. It will become available again in a few turns. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search store You spent the day searching the store, and found... well, you're not quite sure what you found... Strange meat has appeared in your store. While any of it is present, your mind cannot rise any higher. Try to [DISCARD] it as soon as you can. Whatever you do, don't let too much appear... >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat You couldn't bear to part with things. The [DISCARD] verb is blocked at the moment. It will become available again in a few turns. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >wreck meat You took a large knife and started working on the pile of mystery meat. Cutting, stabbing, slashing... anything it would take to get rid of it. The sinewy, fatty parts were very difficult to cut through... Perhaps your knife was slowly growing more dull. Somehow, in the end there was more meat than there was before you had started. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >wreck meat ([meat]) You took a large knife. You cut and stabbed the meat. Meat.... Meat. Meat. Meat..... >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >wreck meat ([meat]) Meat... Meat. Meat........ Meat.... Meat. Meat. Meat. Meat. Meat.... Meat. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 1. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [?ïs?c?är??] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash] [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] [meat] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >talk number The seer appeared, looking slightly apprehensive, but once inside she gave you a little nod. The seer entered the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash] [wares](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] [meat] [meat] >>> People: [seer](5) >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >cash She handed you something. 'This... is a gift from us. All of us. We do wish to see your business prosper.' Your cash has changed by 2. It is now at 3. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] [meat] [meat] >>> People: [seer](4) >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat ([meat]) You clasped as much meat into your lap as you could carry, but it was slimy and cold and difficult to move. That didn't seem to do anything. The meat refused to leave your store this time. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] [meat] [meat] >>> People: [seer](3) >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat ([meat]) You attempted to get rid of some more meat by carrying it in your lap. That seemed to have helped. Now your store had less meat in it. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] [meat] >>> People: [seer](2) >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat ([meat]) You attempted to get rid of some more meat by carrying it in your lap. That seemed to have helped. Now your store had less meat in it. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] >>> People: [seer] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat ([meat]) You attempted to get rid of some more meat by carrying it in your lap. That didn't seem to do anything. The meat refused to leave your store this time. Felix returned to the store. His face was grim, but you knew he meant no harm. Felix entered the store. The seer left the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] >>> People: [Felix](4) >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >talk felix You tried to talk with Felix some more, but he refused to say more much about himself. In the end, Felix settled for miscellaneous works of poetry and philosophy. Then he left the store. Felix left the store. Your cash has changed by 1. It is now at 4. The number of wares inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](4) [wares] [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat ([meat]) You attempted to get rid of some more meat by carrying it in your lap. That didn't seem to do anything. The meat refused to leave your store this time. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](4) [wares] [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat ([meat]) You attempted to get rid of some more meat by carrying it in your lap. That seemed to have helped. Now your store had less meat in it. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](4) [wares] [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat You attempted to get rid of some more meat by carrying it in your lap. That didn't seem to do anything. The meat refused to leave your store this time. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](4) [wares] [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [meat] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >discard meat You attempted to get rid of some more meat by carrying it in your lap. That seemed to have helped. Now your store had less meat in it. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](4) [wares] [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search store Once again, you set out searching for interesting things. You unlocked one of the side rooms, intent on getting it organized at last. It was a lot of work, but you were willing to endure it. As a reward for your efforts, you got miscellaneous works of poetry and philosophy. Some enthusiast would most likely be interested in those. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](4) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search catalogue The general store always had a weekly promotion for some item. You decided to call them to get more information. It turned out that the item for this week was... 'Duct tape! The question is, what can't you do with it?' Since you have a voucher, you are able to get this item for free. Will you purchase it? (Yes / No) no >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](4) [wares](2) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search store It was time to look for valuable items again. One of the side rooms was unlit, so you had to fetch a flashlight to see anything at all. The chaos in front of you was disheartening. In the end, you managed to find a mirror. It was in a good enough condition to put on sale. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 3. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](3) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >search store You prepared to do another search deep into the store. A narrow path through the clutter led deeper into the store than you had been yet. All the dust made it somewhat hard to breathe. As a reward for your efforts, you got several pairs of decorative wooden shoes. They were in a good enough condition to put on sale. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](4) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >promote shoes You need only to refer to words inside brackets during this story. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [wares](4) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [Oulent] >promote wares You put collection of porcelain dolls on a pedestal in the cathedralesque room. You can put your ordinary wares on display, but the benefit is smaller than with unique items. If you use the verb [PROMOTE] on this item again, it will be taken off the pedestal. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Oulent] >search store On that day, your search led you to a side corridor that seemed to go around cathedralesque room, as if leading to a whole new wing inside the store. You avoided the boxes that were scattered around and went around the corner, only to find a dead end with an odd wooden cylinder. It seemed to be a kaleidoscope of some sort, although adorned with grim figures. You proceeded to walk out of the corridor examining the figures, lost in thought. The next day, you could no longer find the obscure dead end corridor from inside the store. The unique item Mater is now available in the story. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [insight] [number] [directory] [catalogue] [Mater] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Oulent] >talk number The seer appeared, looking slightly apprehensive, but once inside she gave you a little nod. The seer entered the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Mater] >>> People: [seer](5) >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Oulent] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >mater The seer examined the kaleidoscope, careful not to look inside it at any point. 'I have heard of this item from my parents. It is probably ????????'s handiwork. It is said that looking inside can doom a person.'. Secret properties of [Mater]: -- Demands Mind -- You can [TALK] with the item to serve its draining desires. -- Corrupting Influence (lv. 1) -- By simply being in your store, this item will slowly drive people into obsession. Secret properties of [Mater] (If Promoted): -- Demands Mind -- You can [TALK] with the item to serve its draining desires. -- Corrupting Influence (lv. 2) -- The item's corrupting influence is now stronger. -- Acclaim (lv. 2) -- Having three or more promoted items total will increase customer interest even more. Someone entered the store. Whoever it was, he quickly wandered around a corner, clutching something in his hands. Every now and then you heard an odd snicker coming from his direction. The creep entered the store. Someone entered the store - a man in a slightly eccentric looking wear that you had learnt to recognize as the local traditional clothing. He immediately shuffled close to your work desk, his eyes blank and feverish at the same time. The rambling man entered the store. The rambling man started talking. '...In the beginning of days, there was a... tree... of the body of our... our...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](3) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Mater] >>> People: [seer](4) [creep](6) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Oulent] >talk creep You tried to talking to the odd man, but he simply continued snickering at a distance. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 2. The rambling man continued. '...our patron and protector ??????, blessed be her... her silence and the shade cast upon...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Mater] >>> People: [seer](3) [creep](5) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Oulent] >talk creep You tried to talking to the odd man, but he simply continued snickering at a distance. The rambling man continued. '...our town is blessed... the roots still grow underneath but nothing... the body... cut down by ????????...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Mater] >>> People: [seer](2) [creep](4) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Oulent] >talk rambling man You tried talking to the rambling man, but nothing you said got through to him. The rambling man continued. '...that vile fiend and... since then a long time ago since then... a long time... nothing...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Mater] >>> People: [seer] [creep](3) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Oulent] >talk oulent You went and focused into Oulent. A subtle sensation soon took over you. You received an understanding of its deepest desire... A victim. You can perform a trade with Oulent. In exchange for attacking and slaying a random person inside the store, you will receive forbidden knowledge. Do you agree?(Yes / No) yes You are about to enter a physical altercation with The seer. This is always an action that comes with some risk. Before you choose whether to engage, consider the following: Your state of mind made you uninhibited. Your intent was to kill. You had already killed in the past. The seer seemed formidable. Overall chance of success: low. Do you wish to proceed? (Yes / No) no The seer left the store. The rambling man continued. '...but one day if we live to the highest we may ascend to the skyline and... eat the fruit of ?????? and...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [Mater] >>> People: [creep](2) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Oulent] >promote mater You placed the object in one of the large glass vitrines. As you put finishing touches to the display, you were paid a surprise visit by the seer. She seemed happier than before, even giving a careful smile at your direction. 'This room... it's really starting to take shape. It will be wonderful when it's complete. It will be a cradle for the local spirit... A place in which to gather and to find your strength.' She tentatively waited for you to say something before continuing. 'This is like a sanctum. An inner sanctum... a small oasis hiding inside your store. Don't you think it deserves a special name?' Would you like to rename the cathedralesque room? (Yes / No) yes The next thing you type will be the new name of cathedralesque room. The rambling man continued. '...unspoken bliss and peace. Peace is what you shall know... I... am willing to...' >sanctum Sanctum... Is this okay? (Type 'yes' or 'no'.) yes The seer considered the name for a moment before nodding quietly. She then walked a small lap around the room, continuing to admire it. 'Do you know the patron of Förfeninnen? By tradition, we only call her ??????. Her invisible boughs cast a cooling shade on us, and her roots still live under the soil... I would like to give you something. You can add it to the collection here in Sanctum.' She produced an oddly shaped, gnarled object from her pocket. It looked like a long, misshapen piece of wood that became very pointy and narrow on one end. It looked as if it had been underground for a long time, with long-dried dirt covering it in clumps. When you reached out to take it, some of the dirt broke off, coloring the floor underneath with a dull shade of brown. 'Here. A piece of ??????... You must take it. You... must...' She quickly shoved the item into your hand, almost stabbing you with it. She then quickly turned around and left without saying a word. The rambling man continued. '...die in her name... I am only looking to ascend, so maybe you can help me...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](3) [cash](2) [insight] [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [creep] [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Mater] [Oulent] >talk mater You picked up the item. You were willing to peer inside, even if it didn't seem like an ordinary kaleidoscope... You can perform a trade with Mater. You can exchange 1 mind for some forbidden knowledge. Agree? (Yes / No) yes You placed your eye on the kaleidoscope and saw what seemed like a fairly normal array of triangular, mirrored shapes in a variety of colors. Shaking or turning the kaleidoscope caused the shapes to change. Nothing out of the ordinary, although there was one point where the angles overlapped strangely. It was almost like the opposite of a blind spot - there was too much information visible. The more you focused on this point, the less it made sense. A slight vertigo overcame you, then nausea. The shapes inside the spot folded in on themselves, like watching a series of liquid mirrors infinitely refract each other. And behind the fractured, illogical shapes you saw... At this point, you set down the kaleidoscope and threw up uncontrollably. An irrational fear was boiling in your stomach for reasons you didn't completely understand. You desired to smash the kaleidoscope to pieces, but were held back by an even greater fear of what might happen if you did so. Before the odd man left, he dropped something on your desk. He then ran away, laughing loudly. The egg is now available in the story. The creep left the store. Your mind value has gone down! It is now at 2. You have gained insight. The rambling man continued. '...In the beginning of days, there was a... tree... of the body of our... our...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [egg] [root] >>> People: [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Mater] [Oulent] >x egg It was a decorative item in the shape of an egg made out of glass and some metal. It had the color of amber, except with a tint of sickly green to it. You felt nervous looking at it. Secret properties of [egg]: - ??? The rambling man continued. '...our patron and protector ??????, blessed be her... her silence and the shade cast upon...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [egg] [root] >>> People: [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Mater] [Oulent] >promote egg You placed the object in one of the large glass vitrines. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 1. The rambling man continued. '...our town is blessed... the roots still grow underneath but nothing... the body... cut down by ????????...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](4) [Mater] [Oulent] [egg] >search store You were ready to do another search. You unlocked one of the side rooms, intent on getting it organized at last. The chaos in front of you was disheartening. As a reward for your efforts, you got slightly moldy vintage mannequins. You were certain someone would be interested in them. The number of wares inside the store has increased. The rambling man continued. '...that vile fiend and... since then a long time ago since then... a long time... nothing...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](5) [Mater] [Oulent] [egg] >search store On that day, your search led you to a dusty cupboard. On the bottom shelf was a tangled pile of wooden rods or twigs. Their shape was gnarled, almost like grasping limbs. You couldn't fathom what might be the use for such an item. The unique item twigs is now available in the story. The rambling man continued. '...but one day if we live to the highest we may ascend to the skyline and... eat the fruit of ?????? and...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [?äl?k?] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [twigs] [root] >>> People: [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](5) [Mater] [Oulent] [egg] >search store Another day, another search. A narrow path through the clutter led deeper into the store than you had been yet. It was a lot of work, but you were willing to endure it. As a reward for your efforts, you got collection of porcelain dolls. Some enthusiast would most likely be interested in those. The number of wares inside the store has increased. The rambling man continued. '...unspoken bliss and peace. Peace is what you shall know... I... am willing to...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [twigs] [root] >>> People: [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](6) [Mater] [Oulent] [egg] >promote twigs You put the ornamental twigs hanging from a hook inside Sanctum. The rambling man continued. '...die in her name... I am only looking to ascend, so maybe you can help me...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](6) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk number The seer appeared, looking slightly apprehensive, but once inside she gave you a little nod. The seer entered the store. The rambling man continued. '...In the beginning of days, there was a... tree... of the body of our... our...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [seer](5) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](6) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >twigs The seer examined the pile of twigs, lifting them up. 'This item is important to our faith. It symbolizes ascending to the top of ?????? the way a true believer would rise to her boughs... a little at a time. Will you hang it in the Sanctum?'. Secret properties of [twigs]: -- Historical -- This item is of special interest to the locals. Secret properties of [twigs] (If Promoted): -- Historical -- This item is of special interest to the locals. -- Acclaim (lv. 3) -- Having five or more promoted items will greatly increase customer interest. The rambling man continued. '...our patron and protector ??????, blessed be her... her silence and the shade cast upon...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [seer](4) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](6) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >egg The seer examined the decorative egg. 'This item is dripping with the essence of ????????. It breeds nothing but evil and failure. You should be very careful'. Secret properties of [egg]: -- Breeds Shadows (lv. 1) -- By simply being in your store, this item will rarely generate a shadow. Secret properties of [egg] (If Promoted): -- Breeds Shadows (lv. 2) -- The item will generate shadows more often. -- Acclaim (lv. 3) -- Having five or more promoted items will greatly increase customer interest. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 0. Your cash is alarmingly low. If you do not get more cash in 6 turns, the story will end. The rambling man continued. '...our town is blessed... the roots still grow underneath but nothing... the body... cut down by ????????...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [seer](3) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](6) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >x man The man was standing right next to your work desk, his gaze fixated somewhere past you. He seemed to be preoccupied in intense thought, occasionally mustering a sentence or two through some effort of his will. You weren't sure if anything he said made much sense, however. This man is no regular customer. He could be trouble if you let him linger. The rambling man possesses the following perks: - Unhygienic... The smell is uniquely terrible. The rambling man continued. '...that vile fiend and... since then a long time ago since then... a long time... nothing...' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [seer](2) [rambling man] >>> Promoted: [wares](6) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >discard man You are about to enter a physical altercation with the rambling man. This is always an action that comes with some risk. Before you choose whether to engage, consider the following: Your state of mind made you uninhibited. The person was not going to resist. Overall chance of success: high. Do you wish to proceed? (Yes / No) yes You stood up, left your workspace and growled: 'You are no longer welcome here'. The rambling man did not react in any way even as you closed up on him. You grabbed the lapels on his coat and started pushing him around. His breath smelled terrible up close. After some tens of seconds of tugging, you managed to get him out through the front door. Hopefully he would stay there for a while. The rambling man left the store. You have acquired infamy! It is now at 1. Certain actions make you and your store more infamous. Infamy can attract customers but it also interests the authorities. Don't let it get too high. If you [PROMOTE] your store, it can help reduce infamy. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [infamy] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [seer] >>> Promoted: [wares](6) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >cash She handed you something. 'This... is a gift from us. All of us. We do wish to see your business prosper.' The seer left the store. Your cash has changed by 2. It is now at 2. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [infamy] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](6) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >search store Once again, you set out searching for interesting things. One of the side rooms was unlit, so you had to fetch a flashlight to see anything at all. All the dust made it somewhat hard to breathe. In the end, you managed to find a woolly wall cloth. You were certain someone would be interested in it. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [infamy] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](7) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >search store It was time to look for valuable items again. A narrow path through the clutter led deeper into the store than you had been yet. You lost all track of time while assorting the piles of items. As a reward for your efforts, you got scarves decorated with traditional patterns. You were certain someone would be interested in them. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [infamy] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >search catalogue The general store always had a weekly promotion for some item. You decided to call them to get more information. It turned out that the item for this week was... 'An axe! A hickory carpenter's axe is an useful tool for wood work! And why not self-defense too!' Since you have a voucher, you are able to get this item for free. Will you purchase it? (Yes / No) no Someone entered the store. He was a man in his 30s, wearing sharp glasses and homely clothes. You also noted his somewhat shaggy beard. After quick introductions, you learnt his name was Jan. Jan entered the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [infamy] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [Jan](8) >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk jan You began talking to Jan. He seemed to be a man of unusual taste; he was actually looking for rustic furnishing and other such things for his apartment. Or possibly gifts for relatives. He spoke quickly and with an accent that didn't seem entirely familiar to you. After a while of looking around, Jan decided to buy several pairs of decorative wooden shoes. Then he left the store. Jan left the store. Your cash has changed by 2. It is now at 4. The number of wares inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](4) [infamy] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](7) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >search store You spent the day searching the store, but found nothing useful for your troubles. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](4) [infamy] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](7) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >search store You prepared to do another search deep into the store. You unlocked one of the side rooms, intent on getting it organized at last. The chaos in front of you was disheartening. In the end, you managed to find a weighty candlestick. Some enthusiast would most likely be interested in it. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](4) [infamy] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >search store On that day, you found an old wooden table with a stuck drawer. After prying it open, you discovered scrambled papers as well a glassy vial that contained some velvety liquid. The papers appeared to be shaky alchemical notes, and you couldn't make sense of them. However, the drawings and general symbolism did suggest to you a theme... resurrection. The unique item vial is now available in the story. The local police showed up outside your store unannounced, probably because of the strange events and rumors surrounding it lately. The police officer entered the store. Your infamy has decreased. It is now at 0. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](4) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] [root] >>> People: [police](6) >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk police What would you like to talk about with the police? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >wares >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](4) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] [root] >>> People: [police](5) >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >x vial It was a strange looking vial that had a slight amount of a velvety liquid moving inside. Secret properties of [vial]: - ??? >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](4) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] [root] >>> People: [police](4) >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk number The seer appeared, looking slightly apprehensive, but once inside she gave you a little nod. The seer entered the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](4) [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] [root] >>> People: [seer](5) [police](3) >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >vial The seer examined the vial. 'We have always seen alchemy as a kind of heresy... Especially something of this nature - a substance that is intended to let one bypass the natural limitations of life...' Secret properties of [vial]: -- Resurrecting -- You can [TALK] to the item to use its mysterious power. Secret properties of [vial] (If Promoted): -- Resurrecting -- You can [TALK] to the item to use its mysterious power. -- Acclaim (lv. 3) -- Having five or more promoted items will greatly increase customer interest. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 3. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] [root] >>> People: [seer](4) [police](2) >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >talk vial You looked at the liquid inside the vial. 'Could this liquid really hold the answers to life and death?' You can do an experiment with the vial. It will be used on a random dead person inside your store. The vial will disappear from the story, but the deceased person is returned back to life and you gain both forbidden knowledge and infamy. Agree? (Yes / No) no >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [vial] [root] >>> People: [seer](3) [police] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [egg] >promote vial You placed the object in one of the large glass vitrines. The police officer left the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [seer](2) >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >search store Even after hours of searching, today you only could gather junk that should be thrown away in the trash. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [junk] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> People: [seer] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >discard junk You took all the junk you could carry and placed it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. The seer left the store. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >search store On that day, you accidentally kicked aside a metal object when entering a darkened room. The object turned out to be a horse's shoe made out of strange metal. Someone had wrapped barbed wire around it, and a nail was also attached to both of its ends. You wondered what was the purpose of the spiky decorations. It made the shoe rather eye-catching, if nothing else. The unique item shoe is now available in the story. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [shoe] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >search store Despite your best efforts, today you only managed to collect junk that should be tossed out. The amount of junk inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [junk] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [shoe] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >discard junk You took some junk and dropped it into the trash bins outside. That should have made the store a little bit cleaner. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 2. The amount of junk inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [shoe] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >search store You were ready to do another search. One of the side rooms was unlit, so you had to fetch a flashlight to see anything at all. You lost all track of time while assorting the piles of items. As a reward for your efforts, you got several pairs of decorative wooden shoes. You were certain some collector would be willing to part with their cash to get them. The number of wares inside the store has increased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [shoe] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](9) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >search store You spent the day searching the store, but found nothing useful for your troubles. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [shoe] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](9) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >search store On that day, your search led you to a small wooden closet with upper shelves full of moth-eaten clothes. One of the lower shelves was empty, and in the furthest corner, almost completely obfuscated by shadows, was a square-shaped wooden box about 30 cm wide. Its seams were nearly unnoticeable, giving it the impression that it had been handcrafted from a single piece of wood. The surface felt rough and unappealing. It also had an unnaturally dark color, although you couldn't tell if the color came from a paint finish or if it was just the natural color of the wood. Just holding it felt strange. The unique item black box is now available in the story. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](2) [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [black box] [shoe] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](9) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >promote store You called the biggest local magazine and managed to make a deal for a paid advertisement for the Antiques antique store. You would now have a greater customer interest for the next few weeks. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 1. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [number] [directory] [catalogue] [black box] [shoe] [root] >>> Promoted: [wares](9) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >talk number The seer appeared, looking slightly apprehensive, but once inside she gave you a little nod. The seer entered the store. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [black box] [shoe] [root] >>> People: [seer](5) >>> Promoted: [wares](9) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >box The seer examined the black box. 'This box was crafted a long time ago by wretched hands. It is a host to untold misery. And as for what it contains... If you choose to open it, you may never be the same again'. Secret properties of [black box]: -- Openable -- You can [SEARCH] to attempt to open this item. Secret properties of [black box] (If Promoted): -- Openable -- You can [SEARCH] to attempt to open this item. -- Distasteful -- If promoted, this item will repel customers. -- Acclaim (lv. 3) -- Having five or more promoted items will greatly increase customer interest. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [black box] [shoe] [root] >>> People: [seer](4) >>> Promoted: [wares](9) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >shoe The seer examined the shoe carefully, trying to avoid its spikes. 'Someone has used this item for dowsing. They have held on to the nails - like this - and wandered around in search of something. The metal of the shoe is unusual, perhaps it does have a power someone could tap into...' Secret properties of [shoe]: -- Dowsing -- If you [SEARCH] with this item, you are guaranteed to find an unique item... at a cost. -- Item Finding (lv. 1) -- By simply being in your store, this item will give you a better chance of discovering unique items. Secret properties of [shoe] (If Promoted): -- Dowsing -- If you [SEARCH] with this item, you are guaranteed to find an unique item... at a cost. -- Distasteful -- If promoted, this item will repel customers. -- Item Finding (lv. 2) -- If promoted, this item will give you an even better chance of discovering unique items. -- Acclaim (lv. 3) -- Having five or more promoted items will greatly increase customer interest. The atmosphere in the store felt different... Someone entered the store. She was a young woman, possibly in her 20s. Her hair was blonde, her demeanor suggested openness and joy. After a brief introduction, you learnt that her name was Hanna. Hanna entered the store. Your cash has changed by -1. It is now at 0. Your cash is alarmingly low. If you do not get more cash in 6 turns, the story will end. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash] [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [black box] [shoe] [root] [shadow](4) >>> People: [seer](3) [Hanna](6) >>> Promoted: [wares](9) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >talk hanna You began talking to Hanna. You learnt that she was a student from a nearby town, looking for material for a school presentation. You could tell she was serious from the way her eyes lit up when the topic of history came up. She was clearly fascinated by the old, the obscure, the long-gone. In the end, Hanna selected slightly moldy vintage mannequins. Then she left the store. Hanna left the store. Your cash has changed by 3. It is now at 3. The number of wares inside the store has decreased. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [black box] [shoe] [root] [shadow](3) >>> People: [seer](2) >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >talk seer What would you like to talk about with the seer? The next thing you write indicates the topic. >root She looked at you. 'This is a piece of... God. Take very good care of it.' >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [black box] [shoe] [root] [shadow](2) >>> People: [seer] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] >promote root You placed the object in one of the large glass vitrines. The seer left the store. You have successfully created an esoteric museum inside your antique store. Feel free to [END] the story when you are ready. >>> Verbs: [WRECK] [DISCARD] [EXAMINE] [PROMOTE] [SEARCH] [TALK] [END] >>> Things: [self] [store] [mind](2) [cash](3) [insight](2) [n?üm??ër?] [directory] [catalogue] [black box] [shoe] [shadow] >>> Promoted: [wares](8) [Mater] [twigs] [Oulent] [vial] [egg] [root] >end You have amassed a large collection of items. Finish the story? (Yes / No) yes Some time later... The store felt more alive than ever, with a constant bustling of visitors. Most of them were locals wearing their traditional clothing, but there were a lot of new faces too. People of all stripes frequently came to mingle inside Sanctum, your own esoteric museum, to quietly stare at the items there. In a sense it was your tribute to this town; a place that you had almost grown fond of by now. It was astounding to think that you had built it piece by piece with your own hands over these past months. You felt joy watching this colorful scene, but also a measure of sadness. A part of you felt like some invisible threshold had now been crossed - a point of no return. Whatever you had set in motion here was now irreversible. The town leaders started holding frequent meetings within the halls of the Antiques antique store, yet whatever they talked about was not meant for your ears. Their whispering and chanting often went on deep into the night, preventing you from sleeping. Every once in a while you would be torn awake from your slumber by screams which seemed to echo from somewhere down below. But you couldn't say for sure if they weren't just nightmares. During the day, everything went on like normal. People communed, children were playing, someone had even brought an accordion. Jaunty music filled the air; the dead silence of the store had been replaced by life in all its forms. People still came in and kept staring at your unique items, or possibly somewhere past them, a thousand yards into the distance. Their drool drew faint shapes on the floor. Infants were gnawing on roots and frolicking in dust. You could hear the sharpening of saws. The local men occupied your workshop, tinkering with instruments that were used to cut and draw blood. And every once in a while, a piercing shriek from the accordion, a perfect complement to the feeling that was about to burst from your chest. You sat behind your desk near the entrance every day like usual, greeting the visitors, pretending as if everything was fine. Like the seer had predicted, your store had become a cradle for the local spirit. But what exactly would mature out of this cradle? You had long stopped wanting to even think about it. *** Ending C - Community *** Would you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, see some suggestions for AMUSING things to do, QUIT, UNDO the last command or list your ACHIEVEMENTS? > achievements Your achievements in Ascension of Limbs thus far ... 1: Local color --- You met the seer for the first time. 2: ??? 3: ??? 4: ??? 5: ??? 6: ??? 7: Ending C - Community --- You became the cult's pawn. 8: ??? 9: ??? 10: ??? 11: ??? 12: ??? You have unlocked 2 achievements out of 12. Would you like to RESTART, RESTORE a saved game, see some suggestions for AMUSING things to do, QUIT, UNDO the last command or list your ACHIEVEMENTS? >