Please enter your instructions.
>about

In the late 19th century, a poor priest named Bérenger Saunière was assigned to the tiny hilltop village of Rennes-le-Château.
He suddenly became extremely wealthy after discovering mysterious parchments (with codes/ciphers) hidden in his church.

He spent lavishly on renovations, built a villa (Villa Bethania), a tower (Tour Magdala), and landscaped gardens.
Theories about his wealth range from hidden Visigothic treasure, Cathar secrets, Knights Templar connections, a bloodline of Jesus & Mary Magdalene (Holy Grail / Sangreal theories), to much more mundane explanations (contributions and gifts from masses, blackmail, etc.)

Kim Travers, now back in Rennes-le-Château after a Rosicrucian adventure, is contacted by an old acquaintance. This will lead to a modern-day treasure hunt / mystery investigation across the village and surrounding countryside, uncovering layers of history involving the Cathars, Templars, Saunière’s secret, and possibly something much older.

Please enter your instructions.
>intro

The Priest and the Rennes Alignment.

It is a cold, windswept afternoon in late October.

You are Kim Travers, 66 years old, retired, and - until recently - content to live quietly in the small hilltop village of Rennes-le-Château in southern France.

Three months ago you returned from a strange and transformative journey involving an ancient Rosicrucian abbey. You thought that chapter of your life was closed.

Then, last night, a sharp knock sounded at your door.

Dr. Elias Moreau - an old acquaintance and eccentric historian - stood on your doorstep, rain-soaked and visibly afraid. In his trembling hands he held a yellowed parchment covered in strange symbols and codes.

"Kim... they were right," he whispered. "Saunière found something far greater than treasure. But they're watching me. I need your help."

Before you could ask questions, he pressed the parchment into your hands and disappeared into the storm.

This morning, you learned that Dr. Moreau has vanished.

Now, as the sun shines high over the ancient village, you sit in your home, the 'Tour Magdala' looming outside your window like a silent sentinel.

Something ancient and powerful is stirring in these hills.

And it seems the mystery of Rennes-le-Château has chosen you as its next seeker.

What will you do?

OK, now what?
>credits

The Priest and the Rennes Alignment

Author: catventure.

With deepest gratitude to the playtesters who helped make this quest become a reality:

dgtziea
Garry Francis
Allyson Gray

Music by Eric Matyas
www.soundimage.org

Tell me what to do next please.
>look

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.
Visible to the eye:  a walking stick.

Tell me what to do next please.
>i

You are carrying:  nothing at all. 

Please tell me your next command.
>x me

You examine yourself. Your name is Kim Travers. A retired teacher. You now live in Rennes-Le-Chateau, a tiny, isolated hilltop village in Southern France. You are still the same as you were yesterday. Although you are 66 years old, you remain physically quite fit.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x table

You've found something...
You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.
You notice: a coded parchment, a note, a topographic map and a walking stick.

Please tell me your next command.
>x fire

A warm fire burns steadily.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x stick

Stick: A solid wooden walking stick with a metal tip.

OK, now what?
>take stick

You now have the stick.

What now?
>x tip

Tip: Seems it's not really important in any special way that you can see.

Please tell me your next command.
>x tower

Tour Magdala: It is the name of the famous watchtower built by Sauniere with some of his new-found wealth.

OK, now what?
>x map

Map: A large topographic map with several handwritten marks and points connected by lines.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>take map

You now have the map.

OK, now what?
>x note

Note: Hastily scribbled by Moreau.

What now?
>read it

You unfold the crumpled note. The handwriting is hurried and shaky:

"Kim,

They’re watching me. I found something far more important than I expected - another parchment, older and more dangerous than the first. 

I can’t trust anyone else. 

Be careful. They know I’ve spoken to you.

- Elias"

Please enter your instructions.
>read map

You spread out the large topographic map of the Rennes-le-Château region.

Several locations are marked with pencil circles and small notes in Dr. Moreau’s handwriting:

• "Alignment point?" near the Peak of Cardou  
• "Possible tunnel entrance" near the old thermal springs  
• "The line?" drawn between several ancient landmarks and churches

A small handwritten note in the corner reads:  
"Seven points. One axis. The key is alignment."

Tell me what to do next please.
>take map

You are already carrying the map.

OK, now what?
>x chiper

You're not sure what chiper is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

Please tell me your next command.
>x cipher

You're not sure what cipher is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x parchment

Coded Parchment: A fragile, yellowed parchment covered in strange symbols, numbers, and Latin phrases.

OK, now what?
>read it

You carefully unroll the fragile parchment. It is covered in a complex mixture of Latin phrases, strange symbols, numbers, and what looks like a partial map.

Written in a different hand at the bottom:

"The key lies not in gold, but in alignment. "

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take it

You now have the parchment.

Tell me what to do next please.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a topographic map and a walking stick. 

What now?
>take note

You now have the note.

What now?
>l

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.

What now?
>n

You go north.

A warm, lived-in kitchen with a large wooden table. The scent of coffee and dried lavender fills the air. Everything is neat and orderly - the way you like it.
Exits lead: south only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x table

A large clean table. You discover something...

A warm, lived-in kitchen with a large wooden table. The scent of coffee and dried lavender fills the air. Everything is neat and orderly - the way you like it.
Exits lead: south only.
Visible to the eye:  a silver mirror, a flashlight and rubber gloves.

Please enter your instructions.
>x mirror

Mirror: A polished silver hand mirror with an ornate handle.

Tell me what to do next please.
>take mirror

You now have the mirror.

OK, now what?
>x gloves

Gloves: For protecting the hands against dirty or cold water.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take it

You now have the gloves.

Please enter your instructions.
>wear gloves

You're now wearing the gloves.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x flashlight

Flashlight: A sturdy flashlight. It has an on/off switch. It is currently turned off.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>take flashlight

You now have the flashlight.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>s

You begin moving south.

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>e

You move east.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?
>w

You set off west.

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You go west.

Your modest bedroom is simply furnished. A comfortable bed and a small desk beside it. The room feels quiet and safe.
Exits lead: east only.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x bed

It is as you would expect.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x desk

It has an unlocked drawer.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x drawer

Drawer: A wooden drawer that can be opened.

Please enter your instructions.
>open drawer

You open the drawer. You've found two items, a diary and a crucifix, which you take from the drawer, before closing it. 
Your modest bedroom is simply furnished. A comfortable bed and a small desk beside it. The room feels quiet and safe.
Exits lead: east only.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x crucifix

Crucifix: A simple silver crucifix.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>wear it

You can't wear the crucifix.

Please tell me your next command.
>x diary

Diary: It contains notes from your previous adventure - "The Abbey of the Hidden Rose."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>read it

You open your old diary from the Rosicrucian abbey adventure. Several pages are filled with your handwriting:

"The Seven Symbols are real.  
I still don’t fully understand what happened, but I know the Work is not finished.  

There are greater forces at play in this world than most people realise.  

If I am ever called back to Rennes-le-Château, I must be ready."

The last entry is dated three months ago, the day you returned home.

OK, now what?
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a topographic map, a silver mirror, a flashlight, a walking stick, a diary and a silver crucifix. You are wearing rubber gloves. 

I'm waiting for your commands.
>take diary

You are already carrying the diary.

OK, now what?
>l

Your modest bedroom is simply furnished. A comfortable bed and a small desk beside it. The room feels quiet and safe.
Exits lead: east only.

OK, now what?
>e

You go east.

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>e

You move east.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?
>smell

You breathe in deeply. Apart from the scent of woodsmoke nothing further seems in the air.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>n

You move north.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x fountain

You see nothing unusual about the fountain.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x benches

Benches: Seems it's not really important in any special way that you can see.

Please tell me your next command.
>x north

Seems normal that way.

Please tell me your next command.
>s

You set off south.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

OK, now what?
>n

You move north.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x tourists

You're not sure what tourists is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You begin moving south.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>s

You begin moving south.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x grid

Cattle grid: It's an oblong metal barred grille set in the road to facilitate farm animal crossings.

What now?
>x thyme

Thyme: Seems it's not really important in any special way that you can see.

OK, now what?
>use grid

Use grid? I need to know just HOW you wish to use something. "USE" is too much of a generality. I need a more descriptive verb. For instance:
>examine grid
>turn grid
>drop grid

Please enter your instructions.
>take grid

Doesn't seem to be possible for you! You can't take the grid.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>pull grid

Despite your strength, it's physically not possible to do that.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>look in grid

The grid doesn't appear to be an item you need to look in.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>n

You go north.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>e

You set off east.

Local Café “Le Bellevue”.
A small, friendly café in the village with a terrace offering excellent views. The aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. The owner, Madame Claudine Duval knows many old stories. A few locals sit at tables, chatting quietly. The large windows offer a beautiful view over the valley.
Exits lead: west only.
Madame Claudine Duval is behind the counter and Isabelle, Moreau's daughter, is sitting here.

Please enter your instructions.
>x windows

Windows: That's probably just background scenery and doesn't hold any special importance to you.

OK, now what?
>x duval

Madame Claudine Duval: A sharp-eyed, 72-year-old owner of the village café. A sturdy woman with keen eyes and a no-nonsense expression.

Please tell me your next command.
>talk to duval

Madame Claudine looks you over carefully. "You’re not one of the usual tourists, are you? You have that look - the one that says you’re chasing Saunière’s ghost. What can I get you… or are you here for answers instead?"

Please tell me your next command.
>ask duval about moreau

Claudine: "Elias? He’s been coming here for years, asking endless questions. Lately he seemed scared. He kept saying ‘they’ were watching him. I told him to be careful, but he wouldn’t listen."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask duval about them

She chuckles warmly. "Me? I'm just an old woman who's lived in this village her whole life. Seen too many treasure hunters come and go. I make good coffee and mind my own business... mostly."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask duval about priest

Claudine: "I don't have anything to say about that."

What now?
>ask duval about sauniere

Claudine: "He was a strange man. Generous to the village, but secretive. After he found those parchments, everything changed. He spent money like water, but he always looked worried - like he was carrying a heavy burden."

Please tell me your next command.
>ask duval about isabelle

Claudine: "I don't have anything to say about that."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask duval about isabella

Claudine: "I don't have anything to say about that."

Tell me what to do next please.
>l

Local Café “Le Bellevue”.
A small, friendly café in the village with a terrace offering excellent views. The aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. The owner, Madame Claudine Duval knows many old stories. A few locals sit at tables, chatting quietly. The large windows offer a beautiful view over the valley.
Exits lead: west only.
Madame Claudine Duval is behind the counter and Isabelle, Moreau's daughter, is sitting here.

OK, now what?
>x isabelle

Isabelle Moreau: Aged around 40 years with tired eyes and a determined expression. She is your missing friend Dr. Moreau’s daughter. No doubt worried and angry at her father's sudden disappearance. 

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>talk to isabelle

Isabelle looks up from her coffee with a mixture of hope and exhaustion.

"You’re Kim Travers, aren’t you? My father mentioned you. Please… have you seen him? He’s been missing for days and I’m terrified something’s happened to him."

What now?
>tell isabelle about moreau

To be perfectly honest you can't see a way to accomplish that.

It's very unlikely you can do what you are suggesting.

Please enter your instructions.
>ask isabelle about moreau

Isabelle: "He’s been obsessed with this Rennes mystery for years. Lately he was convinced he was close to finding something big - the Alignment Crystal, he called it. He kept saying ‘they’ were watching him. I begged him to stop, but he wouldn’t listen."

OK, now what?
>ask isabelle about herself

She sighs. "I'm just a daughter trying to find her father. He's brilliant but reckless. I've spent years worrying about him and his obsession with Rennes. Now it seems I have good reason to worry."

Tell me what to do next please.
>ask isabelle about rennes

Isabelle: "I’m sorry… I don’t know anything about that. I just want my father back."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask isabelle about crystal

Isabelle: "I’m sorry… I don’t know anything about that. I just want my father back."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask isabelle about alignment

Isabelle:  "I’m sorry… I don’t know anything about that. I just want my father back."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>l

Local Café “Le Bellevue”.
A small, friendly café in the village with a terrace offering excellent views. The aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. The owner, Madame Claudine Duval knows many old stories. A few locals sit at tables, chatting quietly. The large windows offer a beautiful view over the valley.
Exits lead: west only.
Madame Claudine Duval is behind the counter and Isabelle, Moreau's daughter, is sitting here.

Please tell me your next command.
>w

You go west.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You move north.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You move west.

Bookshop - "Le Trésor Perdu".
A small, dimly lit bookshop. Shelves crammed with works on Rennes-le-Château, the Cathars, the Templars and esoteric subjects line every wall. The air is thick with the smell of old paper, leather bindings, and dust. Behind the counter stands an elderly man with wire-rimmed glasses, watching you intently.
Exits lead: east only.
Victor Lang, the bookseller, is behind the counter.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x shelves

You spend a few minutes perusing the many uninteresting books. Nothing especial catches your eye or appears to be of much assistance or relevant to your mission.

What now?
>read shelves

I don't believe you can read the shelves.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>mell

I'm not sure what you mean when you say that.

Tell me what to do next please.
>smell

You smell to see if there is anything in the air.

Nothing unusual.

What now?
>counter

Counter... Has a natural kind of scent to you but you are no expert in aromas.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>look

Bookshop - "Le Trésor Perdu".
A small, dimly lit bookshop. Shelves crammed with works on Rennes-le-Château, the Cathars, the Templars and esoteric subjects line every wall. The air is thick with the smell of old paper, leather bindings, and dust. Behind the counter stands an elderly man with wire-rimmed glasses, watching you intently.
Exits lead: east only.
Victor Lang, the bookseller, is behind the counter.

Please enter your instructions.
>x counter

You see a couple of items you hadn't noticed when you entered...

Bookshop - "Le Trésor Perdu".
A small, dimly lit bookshop. Shelves crammed with works on Rennes-le-Château, the Cathars, the Templars and esoteric subjects line every wall. The air is thick with the smell of old paper, leather bindings, and dust. Behind the counter stands an elderly man with wire-rimmed glasses, watching you intently.
Exits lead: east only.
You perceive the following:  a yellowed newspaper clipping and a tourist guide.
Victor Lang, the bookseller, is behind the counter.

What now?
>x newspaper

What do you want me to x?

Please enter your instructions.
>x clipping

Newspaper clipping: A 1917 newspaper clipping about Saunière’s mysterious wealth and death.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>take it

You now have the clipping.

Please tell me your next command.
>read it

A yellowed newspaper article from 1917:

"Death of the Eccentric Priest of Rennes-le-Château.  
Bérenger Saunière, who rose from poverty to immense wealth through unknown means, was found dead under mysterious circumstances. Local rumours speak of hidden treasure and a terrible secret..."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>look

Bookshop - "Le Trésor Perdu".
A small, dimly lit bookshop. Shelves crammed with works on Rennes-le-Château, the Cathars, the Templars and esoteric subjects line every wall. The air is thick with the smell of old paper, leather bindings, and dust. Behind the counter stands an elderly man with wire-rimmed glasses, watching you intently.
Exits lead: east only.
Also here you can see:  a tourist guide.
Victor Lang, the bookseller, is behind the counter.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x guide

Tourist guide: A cheap modern guidebook full of wild theories and inaccuracies about Rennes-le-Château.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take guide

You now have the guide.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>read guide

You open the cheap, colourful tourist guidebook titled "Rennes-le-Château: Secrets of the Cathar Treasure". The pages are filled with dramatic claims and grainy photos:

"Welcome to Rennes-le-Château, one of the most mysterious villages in France! In the late 19th century, the poor priest Bérenger Saunière suddenly became incredibly wealthy. How? Some say he discovered a hidden Visigothic treasure. Others speak of a much greater secret...

Local legend tells of the Cathars, the 'Pure Ones', who fled here during the Albigensian Crusade. It is whispered they brought with them the Holy Grail itself. Some researchers believe the Knights Templar later used these hills to hide their own treasures and knowledge.

Must-visit locations:
• The Church of St Mary Magdalene – note the unusual statue of the devil.
• Villa Bethania and the Tour Magdala – built by Saunière with his mysterious fortune.
• The surrounding hills and mountains – said to form perfect geometric alignments.
• Rennes-les-Bains – the ancient thermal springs used since Roman times.
Warning: Many visitors become obsessed with the 'Rennes Mystery'. Remember – not everything is what it seems..."

The last page has a handwritten note in the margin: "All of this is surface nonsense. The real truth is deeper."

Please tell me your next command.
>l

Bookshop - "Le Trésor Perdu".
A small, dimly lit bookshop. Shelves crammed with works on Rennes-le-Château, the Cathars, the Templars and esoteric subjects line every wall. The air is thick with the smell of old paper, leather bindings, and dust. Behind the counter stands an elderly man with wire-rimmed glasses, watching you intently.
Exits lead: east only.
Victor Lang, the bookseller, is behind the counter.

OK, now what?
>x man

X what?

Please enter your instructions.
>x victor

Victor Lang is a reclusive bookseller. 
A tall, thin man in his late 60s with wire-rimmed glasses. A gruff exterior and a deep knowledge of esoteric subjects. He gives you the impression that he knows far more than he lets on.

What now?
>talk to victor

Bookseller: "Another one chasing Saunière’s ghost? Most leave disappointed... or worse. What do you want?" The old man looks you up and down.

Please tell me your next command.
>ask victor about sauniere

Victor: "Saunière? A complicated man. Poor as a church mouse one day, richer than Croesus the next. He found something in this village - something that changed him. Whether it was gold, knowledge, or a curse… no one truly knows."

What now?
>show parchment to victor

You show Victor the parchment. His eyes widen slightly. After a long silence he sighs.

"Moreau... that fool. I warned him. Alright, you seem to know Moreau and appear to be a serious investigator. Maybe I have something that might interest you? Go through to the back and have a look. But be quick. I'll stay here and look after the shop."

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

The back of the bookshop. This is clearly Victor Lang’'s private room. Shelves groan under the weight of rare and forbidden books. A large oak desk is covered with maps and notes.
Exits lead: east only.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x shelves

You discover something of interest!

The back of the bookshop. This is clearly Victor Lang’'s private room. Shelves groan under the weight of rare and forbidden books. A large oak desk is covered with maps and notes.
Exits lead: east only.
Visible to the eye:  some faded blueprints.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x desk

The large oak desk is cluttered with papers and old maps. Victor clearly spends a lot of time here. You find something interesting...

The back of the bookshop. This is clearly Victor Lang’'s private room. Shelves groan under the weight of rare and forbidden books. A large oak desk is covered with maps and notes.
Exits lead: east only.
Before you lies:  a bottle of revealing ink, some faded blueprints and a letter.

Please enter your instructions.
>x maps

Several old maps of the Rennes valley for reading.

Please enter your instructions.
>read maps

You peruse the maps for some time studying them carefully. Someone has obviously been conducting surveys trying to identify alignments involving significant landmarks and buildings in the area. After some time inwardly digesting the information on the maps, you feel that whoever owned them was definately on the right track but that nothing else of real value or significance can be gleaned from them.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x bottle

Bottle of revealing ink: A small bottle containing a special clear liquid that reveals hidden text. Maybe keep this with you to use on certain documents you may acquire.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>take it

You now have the ink.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>put ink on note

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the note.

What now?
>put ink on parchment

You carefully dab a small amount of the special ink onto the coded parchment.

After a few moments, faint lines and additional symbols appear that were previously invisible. The full message now reads:

"When the alignments are right, the Axis shall awaken.  
Bring the Crystal to the convergence to activate.  
Only the one who carries the light within may open the final door."

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

Tell me what to do next please.
>look

The back of the bookshop. This is clearly Victor Lang’'s private room. Shelves groan under the weight of rare and forbidden books. A large oak desk is covered with maps and notes.
Exits lead: east only.
You notice: some faded blueprints and a letter.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x letter

Letter: There is something printed on it.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>read letter

A modern letter.  There appears to be no message or text on the letter apart from the printed letterhead that reads: 'Damien Roche Enterprises'.

Ah! Damien Roche. You have heard stories about him before. A charismatic but ruthless treasure hunter and esoteric researcher who recently came to stay in Rennes to investigate the mystery. Interesting...

Tell me what to do next please.
>take letter

You now have the letter.

OK, now what?
>x blueprints

Blueprints: Old architectural blueprints of the church and villa with mysterious notes.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>read blueprints

These old architectural plans show the church and Villa Bethania. At the bottom are some notes in Saunière’s hand:

"Hidden basement?"  
"Church aligns with three prominent landmarks?"  
"One cave where the light must converge."

Please tell me your next command.
>put ink on blueprints

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the blueprints.

Please tell me your next command.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a topographic map, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a flashlight, a walking stick, a diary, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a silver crucifix, a letter and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves. 

I'm waiting for your commands.
>put ink on clipping

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the clipping.

OK, now what?
>put ink on letter

You carefully dab a small amount of the special ink onto the letter.
Hidden text on the letter is now revealed:

"Moreau,
I have made some exciting discoveries. The Alignment Crystal is the key. It is no myth. I have some proof.   Meet me as usual at my encampment down below if you want me to share my latest findings with you.
- Damien Roche."

Damien Roche! You have heard stories about him before. He's a charismatic but ruthless treasure hunter and esoteric researcher who recently came to stay in the village to investigate the mystery. Interesting...

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

Please enter your instructions.
>e

Upon your return to the front of the shop Victor Lang fails to notice that you have taken some of his property...

Bookshop - "Le Trésor Perdu".
A small, dimly lit bookshop. Shelves crammed with works on Rennes-le-Château, the Cathars, the Templars and esoteric subjects line every wall. The air is thick with the smell of old paper, leather bindings, and dust. Behind the counter stands an elderly man with wire-rimmed glasses, watching you intently.
Exits lead: east and west.
Victor Lang, the bookseller, is behind the counter.

What now?
>show letter to victor

That might not be a good idea. He would then know that you had taken it from his back room!

Please tell me your next command.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a topographic map, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a flashlight, a walking stick, a diary, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a silver crucifix, a letter and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves. 

What now?
>show map to victor

Victor: "This is interesting as well, Travers. I must say you seem to be a cut above the usual treasure hunter we get around these parts. I'm impressed. But what is it all leading to?"

What now?
>ask victor about crystal

Victor: "I can't help you there, I'm afraid."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask victor about alignment

Victor shrugs. "I sell books, not miracles. If you want fairy tales, there are plenty on the shelves."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask victor about cave

Victor: "There are many old tunnels and caves beneath these hills. Some date back to the Visigoths, others to the Cathars. Most are dangerous. A wise person doesn’t go wandering down there alone."

Tell me what to do next please.
>ask victor about bains

Victor shrugs. "I sell books, not miracles. If you want fairy tales, there are plenty on the shelves."

OK, now what?
>ask victor about church

Victor: "The church is full of riddles. Saunière changed almost everything inside it. The statues, the devilish statue, the strange decorations… they all mean something. But good luck getting the current priest to admit that." 

OK, now what?
>ask victor about satute

Victor shrugs. "I sell books, not miracles. If you want fairy tales, there are plenty on the shelves."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask victor about stsatue

Victor shrugs. "I sell books, not miracles. If you want fairy tales, there are plenty on the shelves."

What now?
>ask victor about statue

Victor: "I can't help you there, I'm afraid."

Please tell me your next command.
>lol

Not really knowing exactly what you mean, I will delay doing that.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>e

You go east.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?
>s

You set off south.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>e

You set off east.

Local Café “Le Bellevue”.
A small, friendly café in the village with a terrace offering excellent views. The aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. The owner, Madame Claudine Duval knows many old stories. A few locals sit at tables, chatting quietly. The large windows offer a beautiful view over the valley.
Exits lead: west only.
Madame Claudine Duval is behind the counter and Isabelle, Moreau's daughter, is sitting here.

Tell me what to do next please.
>show note to isabelle

Isabelle reads the note from her father, Elias, and exclaims: "I cannot tell you how disturbing this is. I should really inform the gendarmes, but I'm worried about you too! Kim - please can you find him and make sure he is safe. I beg you."
You promise Isabelle that you will try your best.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You begin moving west.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You go north.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

OK, now what?
>save

Game position saved.

Please enter your instructions.
>e

You begin moving east.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north and west.

What now?
>x desk

You carefully search the large writing desk. Wow! You got lucky... After moving some papers you accidentally stumble across a secret drawer in which is hidden a faded bank receipt from 1892.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north and west.
Also here you can see:  a faded bank receipt.
Maybe that desk is worth a second look?

What now?
>score

Your score is 20 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.
You have taken 148 turns.

Please enter your instructions.
>x receipt

Receipt: It is an old fashioned faded bank receipt from 1892 showing several very large, unexplained deposits.

Please enter your instructions.
>take it

You now have the receipt.

OK, now what?
>read it

Receipt: It is an old fashioned faded bank receipt from 1892 showing several very large, unexplained deposits.

Please enter your instructions.
>put ink on it

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the ink.

Tell me what to do next please.
>l

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north and west.

What now?
>put in kon receipt

Put in kon? That might be possible if you knew what the kon was.

What now?
>put ink on receipt

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the receipt.

What now?
>l

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>x desk

You carefully search the large writing desk once more. After sliding it slightly, you are surprised to discover an entrance leading down!

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

OK, now what?
>n

You set off north.

The private garden at the rear of Saunière’s villa is beautifully landscaped but feels strangely secretive. It's beautifully designed with geometric flowerbeds in unusual arrangements. The layout feels deliberate - almost like a code in itself.
One of the geometric flowerbeds looks slightly disturbed, as if the soil has been turned over more recently than the rest.
Exits lead: north and south.

What now?
>x flowerbeds

You thought it looked familiar. The garden layout matches certain landscape alignments visible on your topographic map of the area. Saunière clearly designed this garden with a specific purpose in mind. One of the geometric flowerbeds looks slightly disturbed, as if the soil has been turned over more recently than the rest...

Please enter your instructions.
>x flowerbed

You thought it looked familiar. The garden layout matches certain landscape alignments visible on your topographic map of the area. Saunière clearly designed this garden with a specific purpose in mind. One of the geometric flowerbeds looks slightly disturbed, as if the soil has been turned over more recently than the rest...

OK, now what?
>dig it

But you don't have a digging tool!

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a topographic map, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a flashlight, a walking stick, a diary, a faded bank receipt, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a silver crucifix, a letter and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves. 

Please enter your instructions.
>s

You set off south.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

Please enter your instructions.
>d

You begin moving down.

It's pitch dark in here. You can't see anything. The darkness is absolute. You can hear only the echo of your own breathing.

Tell me what to do next please.
>turn on flashlight

Ok. You turn on the flashlight. It glows brightly.
The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A hidden basement room beneath the villa. The walls are rough stone, and the air is cool and damp. Old wooden shelves hold dusty boxes. It looks like Saunière used this room for private work.
Exits lead: up only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x shelves

You carefully search the dusty shelves and old wooden boxes. In one of the boxes you find a strange iron key.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A hidden basement room beneath the villa. The walls are rough stone, and the air is cool and damp. Old wooden shelves hold dusty boxes. It looks like Saunière used this room for private work.
Exits lead: up only.
You notice: a strange iron key.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x key

Key: An old iron key. What could it unlock?

Please enter your instructions.
>take it

You now have the key.

What now?
>u

You move up.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

Please enter your instructions.
>turn off flashlight

Ok. You turn off the flashlight.
You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You begin moving west.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You begin moving north.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.
Father Laurent is here.

Please tell me your next command.
>x statue

You examine the famous carved devil. The figure is grotesque yet strangely compelling- a hunched, demonic Asmodeus. His expression is one of grim resignation, as though he has been forced to serve a higher purpose against his will. You can't shake the feeling that this is more than just a provocative decoration placed here by Saunière.
Sister Marie-Claire notices you studying the carved devil and approaches quietly.

"Ah… you are looking at Saunière’s most controversial addition," she says softly. "Many people find him disturbing. Some say he represents evil forced to serve the church. Others believe he is a guardian of a secret. 

Father Saunière never explained why he put the devil here. He only smiled when people asked."

Father Laurent walks over, looking slightly uncomfortable.

"I see you have found our famous devil," he says with a sigh. "One of Saunière’s more… eccentric choices. Many tourists are fascinated by it, but I find it distracting from true worship."

He pauses, then adds reluctantly:
"Some of the older villagers still believe it has a hidden meaning. I prefer not to encourage such superstitions."

OK, now what?
>look

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.
Father Laurent is here and Sister Marie-Claire is close by.

Please tell me your next command.
>x sister

Sister Marie Claire: A quiet nun who helps maintain the church. She appears to be a gentle woman in her 50s with calm, watchful eyes.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x father

Father Laurent: The current parish priest. Skeptical, cautious, and somewhat overwhelmed by the village’s reputation.
Laurent is a middle-aged man in simple clerical clothing. He looks tired and slightly wary of outsiders.

Tell me what to do next please.
>talk to father

Father Laurent turns toward you with a polite but wary smile.

"Welcome to the Church of St Mary Magdalene. I am Father Laurent. We don’t get many visitors this time of year. Is there something I can help you with?"

Please tell me your next command.
>ask father about sauniere

Father Laurent: "Father Saunière... a very complicated legacy. He did much good for this village, but his sudden wealth brought many rumours. Some say he found treasure. Others speak of darker things. I prefer to focus on the spiritual work of the church."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask father about statue

Father Laurent: "One of Saunière’s more… eccentric choices. Many tourists are fascinated by it, but I find it distracting from true worship."

Please tell me your next command.
>ask father about moreau

Father Laurent: "Dr. Moreau? Yes, he has visited several times. An intense man, always asking questions about the church’s history. I fear his curiosity may lead him into trouble. This village has a way of… consuming people."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>read letter

Hidden text on the letter is now revealed:

It is addressed to your missing friend, Dr. Elias Moreau.

"Moreau,
I have made some exciting discoveries. The Alignment Crystal is the key. It is no myth. I have some proof. Meet me as usual at my encampment below if you want me to share my latest findings with you.
- Damien Roche."

What now?
>ask father about damien

Father Laurent looks uncomfortable.
"I have met Monsieur Roche. He asks many questions. I do not trust his intentions."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>ask father about isabelle

Father Laurent: "I am afraid I cannot help you with that. My knowledge is limited to the teachings of the Church and the day-to-day running of this parish."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>ask father about himself

He looks slightly uncomfortable. "I am simply a servant of God trying to keep this old church running. The legacy of Father Saunière makes my work... complicated. I prefer peace and quiet."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>talk to nun

Sister Marie-Claire turns toward you with a gentle smile, though her eyes are cautious.

"Welcome to the Church of St Mary Magdalene. I am Sister Marie-Claire. You seem troubled… or perhaps curious. How may I help you?"

Tell me what to do next please.
>ask nun about herself

She smiles gently. "I am simply a servant of the Lord. I came to this church many years ago seeking peace. Instead, I found many unanswered questions about its history."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask her about church

Sister Marie-Claire: "There are many strange things in this church that Father Saunière added. Especially the devil statue… I believe he was trying to tell us something, but I do not know what."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask father about church

Father Laurent: "The church has many unusual features thanks to Father Saunière’s renovations. The statues, the demon... they have caused much speculation over the years. I do my best to maintain the house of God as it is."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask nun about statue

Sister Marie-Claire: "I don't have anything to say about that."

What now?
>ask nun about devl

Sister Marie-Claire: "I am only a simple nun. I know the church and its history, but many things here remain mysteries even to me."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>ask nun about devil

Sister Marie-Claire: "I don't have anything to say about that."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask nun about sauniere

Sister Marie-Claire: She sighs softly. "Father Saunière was a very complicated man. He loved this church deeply, but after he found those parchments… he changed. He became obsessed with something he would never fully explain."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>ask nun about father

Sister Marie-Claire: "Father Laurent is a good priest. He tries his best to bring peace to this troubled place."

Tell me what to do next please.
>ask nun about moreau

Sister Marie-Claire: "Dr. Moreau seems like a troubled soul. He searches for answers in the wrong places."

Tell me what to do next please.
>show map to nun

Sister Marie Claire didn't seem overly impressed by the map.

Please tell me your next command.
>ask nun about damien

Sister Marie-Claire: She looks uneasy.
"That man… there is something dark about him. I feel uneasy when he is near the church."

Please tell me your next command.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a topographic map, a strange iron key, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a flashlight, a walking stick, a diary, a faded bank receipt, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a silver crucifix, a letter and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves. 

I'm waiting for your commands.
>show parchment to nun

Sister Marie Claire didn't seem overly impressed by the parchment.

OK, now what?
>show receipt to nun

Sister Marie Claire didn't seem overly impressed by the receipt.

Tell me what to do next please.
>read receipt

Receipt: It is an old fashioned faded bank receipt from 1892 showing several very large, unexplained deposits.

OK, now what?
>show crucifix to nun

Sister Marie Claire didn't seem overly impressed by the crucifix.

Please tell me your next command.
>ask father about church

Father Laurent: "The church has many unusual features thanks to Father Saunière’s renovations. The statues, the demon... they have caused much speculation over the years. I do my best to maintain the house of God as it is."

What now?
>ask father about nun

Father Laurent: "Sister Marie-Claire is a devoted servant of God. She has a gentle spirit and a quiet strength."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>l

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.
Father Laurent is here and Sister Marie-Claire is close by.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>e

You move east.

An old cemetery. Weathered gravestones lean at odd angles among wild grass and wild flowers. The wind whispers through the cypress trees. One grave in particular stands out to the southwest. The final resting place of Bérenger Saunière himself.
An elderly woman approaches slowly, leaning on a cane. She is tiny and frail, but her eyes are bright and sharp.
Exits lead: west and southwest.
Mademoiselle Sophie Blanc is here.

OK, now what?
>x woman

You're not sure what woman is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x sophie

Mademoiselle Sophie Blanc: She is in her eighties and frail but has bright, intelligent eyes. She moves slowly but speaks with surprising clarity.

What now?
>talk to sophie

The elderly Sophie looks at you for a long moment, then speaks in a soft, slightly trembling voice.

"You are looking for answers about Monsieur Saunière, yes? My grandmother was a young woman when he was priest here. She worked for him, as a cleaner in the church, told me he was a complicated man... kind, but haunted.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>ask sophie about sauniere

Sophie: "My grandmother told me that he changed after he found those parchments in the church. Suddenly he had money for everything - the villa, the tower, the gardens. But he was never happy. He seemed... afraid. Like he had opened something he could not close. Victor Lang may be able to help you with any parchments. "

I'm waiting for your commands.
>ask sophie about victor

Sophie: "Victor is a good man, but he carries too many secrets. He knows things about this village that even I don’t."

OK, now what?
>ask sophie about grandmother

Sophie’s eyes grow distant, as though she is looking back through many decades.

"Oh, when I was a little girl… maybe eight or nine years old in 1949, my grandmother told me she had a job cleaning the church for Sauniere. Every Tuesday and Friday morning she would carry the bucket and the dusters while she polished the brass and swept the floors.

She told me that Father Saunière was a strange man. Very kind to the children, but always busy. He would be up on ladders or down on his knees working on something behind the altar when she arrived. Sometimes he would talk to himself while he worked. Other times he would suddenly stop and stare at certain parts of the church as if he were seeing something no one else could.

She remembered one morning while dusting around the confessional she had seen him carefully prying at one of the wooden panels. He looked over his shoulder to make sure no one was watching. When he noticed her standing there, he gave her the strangest smile and had said, 'Some secrets are only for those who know how to listen to the wood.'

Grandmother had not understood what he meant at the time. Later, after he became very rich, she told me he changed. He seemed… haunted. He would spend hours in the church at night with lanterns. My grandmother once found a small statue of Mary Magdalene hidden behind some cloth near the side altar. It was so beautifully carved. When I asked about it, grandmother just told me to never speak of it to anyone."

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You begin moving west.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.
Father Laurent is here and Sister Marie-Claire is close by.

Please enter your instructions.
>n

You go north.

Here is the richly decorated altar. The place where Saunière made mysterious changes. The statues of saints seem to watch you with unusual intensity.
Exits lead: south and west.
You notice: a glass shard.

Tell me what to do next please.
>loo behind altar

You sure you know what you're talking about?

I'm waiting for your commands.
>look behind altar

Don't concern yourself with it. Whatever is behind the altar is irrelevant to you.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x panel

I don't believe it's worth examining the panel. Maybe it's just not important at all.

OK, now what?
>knock panel

Don't waste your time thinking of even trying to knock the panel.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x altar

You approach the main altar. It is richly decorated. The surface is smooth from years of use, yet something about its proportions and positioning seems purposeful - almost as if it were designed to align with something beyond the church walls. 
You've found something...

Here is the richly decorated altar. The place where Saunière made mysterious changes. The statues of saints seem to watch you with unusual intensity.
Exits lead: south and west.
Visible to the eye:  a miniature Mary Magdalene, a vial and a glass shard.

OK, now what?
>x statue

I don't believe it's worth examining the statue. Maybe it's just not important at all.

OK, now what?
>x miniatiure

You're not sure what miniatiure is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x mary

Miniature: A finely carved small statue of Mary Magdalene. Thats odd! You notice a small, cleverly hidden compartment in the base of the miniature. 
Inside is a tiny billet which you quickly and surreptitiously remove.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take it

You now have the miniature.

What now?
>x billet

Billet: A very small, tightly rolled piece of extremely old and fragile paper. The handwriting is tiny and faded but still legible.

What now?
>read it

You gently unroll the delicate billet. It contains a short, cryptic message written in French:

"Ce qui est caché n’est pas perdu.  
Cherchez les alignements dans les collines.
Le vrai trésor n’est pas d’or, mais de lumière.

- B.S. 1897"

Translated it reads:

"What is hidden is not lost.  
Seek the alignments in the hills.  
The true treasure is not gold, but light.

- B.S. 1897"

What now?
>look

Here is the richly decorated altar. The place where Saunière made mysterious changes. The statues of saints seem to watch you with unusual intensity.
Exits lead: south and west.
Visible to the eye:  a vial and a glass shard.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x shard

Shard: A sharp, red-stained glass shard.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>take shard

You now have the shard.

What now?
>x it

Shard: A sharp, red-stained glass shard.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x statues

You see nothing unusual about the statues.

What now?
>x vial

Vial: A glass vial of Holy Water from the Church of St. Magdalene.

Please tell me your next command.
>take vial

You now have the vial.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>l

Here is the richly decorated altar. The place where Saunière made mysterious changes. The statues of saints seem to watch you with unusual intensity.
Exits lead: south and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You begin moving west.

You sit on a bench in the small, wooden confessional where Father Saunière reportedly made his most significant discovery. An intricately carved panel faces you.
Exits lead: east only.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x panel

You run your hands carefully along the wooden panel of the confessional. One section feels slightly loose. With gentle pressure, the panel shifts, revealing a small hidden space behind it.

Inside is a very old, torn vellum fragment which you take out.

Sister Marie-Claire’s eyes widen slightly when she notices what you’re doing.

"You should not be searching there..." she says softly, though she does not try to stop you. 

She studies the fragment with visible unease, her fingers tracing the edge gently.

"This... this looks like something Father Saunière would have hidden. Please be careful with it. Some things were meant to remain secret. I fear you are walking the same path he did."

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

What now?
>x fragment

Fragment: A torn and faded vellum fragment.

Please enter your instructions.
>* lol she's in the confessional with me

You sure you know what you're talking about?

Please enter your instructions.
>read it

The vellum is very old and brittle. The text is a strange mix of Latin and unknown symbols.

One partially legible line stands out:

"...the treasure is not what men seek. The true secret sleeps beneath the alignments. Only one of pure heart and clear mind may awaken it..."

OK, now what?
>* kinda redundant

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

What now?
>save

Game position saved.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>look

You sit on a bench in the small, wooden confessional where Father Saunière reportedly made his most significant discovery. An intricately carved panel faces you.
Exits lead: east only.
Sister Marie-Claire is close by.

Please tell me your next command.
>x panel

Your search confirms that there are no more loose sections or hidden secret spaces evident.

Father Laurent enters the area and stops abruptly.

"What are you doing?" he asks sharply, his voice filled with disapproval. "That is a place of confession and prayer, not... archaeology."

He looks at the fragment and appears genuinely disturbed.

"This should not be removed from the church. These old papers have caused enough trouble already. I beg you - leave the past where it belongs."

OK, now what?
>take fragment

You are already carrying the fragment.

Please enter your instructions.
>s

You can't go south at this moment.

Exits lead: east only.

What now?
>e

You set off east.

Here is the richly decorated altar. The place where Saunière made mysterious changes. The statues of saints seem to watch you with unusual intensity.
Exits lead: south and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>s

You go south.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>e

You move east.

An old cemetery. Weathered gravestones lean at odd angles among wild grass and wild flowers. The wind whispers through the cypress trees. One grave in particular stands out to the southwest. The final resting place of Bérenger Saunière himself.
Exits lead: west and southwest.
Mademoiselle Sophie Blanc is here.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>sw

You go southwest.

A quiet corner of the cemetery where Bérenger Saunière himself is buried. The gravestone is surprisingly modest considering the wealth he once possessed.
Exits lead: northeast only.

As you stand by the grave you suddenly feel like you’re being watched. You glance around the cemetery.

A tall figure in a dark coat stands behind you, half-hidden in the shadow of a cypress tree. His face is obscured, but you can feel his eyes on you. After a moment, he turns and walks away without a word.

Please tell me your next command.
>x figure

You're not sure what figure is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x gravestone

Bérenger Saunière’s grave is surprisingly modest for a man who died rich. A simple headstone with a small cross. You carefully search around Saunière’s gravestone for a few minutes. The search pays off. Tucked behind the base, obscured from view, but protected from the elements, you find a small, faded photograph.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

A quiet corner of the cemetery where Bérenger Saunière himself is buried. The gravestone is surprisingly modest considering the wealth he once possessed.
Exits lead: northeast only.
You notice: a faded photograph.

OK, now what?
>score

Your score is 40 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.
You have taken 246 turns.

OK, now what?
>x photograph

Photograph: An old sepia photograph showing Saunière with unknown people.

OK, now what?
>take it

You now have the photo.

Tell me what to do next please.
>ne

You begin moving northeast.

An old cemetery. Weathered gravestones lean at odd angles among wild grass and wild flowers. The wind whispers through the cypress trees. One grave in particular stands out to the southwest. The final resting place of Bérenger Saunière himself.
Exits lead: west and southwest.
Mademoiselle Sophie Blanc is here.

Please enter your instructions.
>show photograph to sophie

Sophie Blanc: "Yes - that would be him with some of the villagers at that time. Heaven knows who they are."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a flashlight, a walking stick, a diary, a faded photograph, a faded bank receipt, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a vial, a glass shard, a silver crucifix, a letter, a billet and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves. 

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>show miniature to sophie

Mademoiselle Sophie Blanc didn't seem overly impressed by the miniature.

What now?
>show receipt to sophie

Mademoiselle Sophie Blanc didn't seem overly impressed by the receipt.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>w

You move west.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>s

You go south.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Please enter your instructions.
>s

You begin moving south.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

OK, now what?
>s

You set off south.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.

The strange iron key slips from your fingers and drops down between the bars of the cattle grid, landing in the mud six feet below.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

OK, now what?
>* lol oh no

Not really knowing exactly what you mean, I will delay doing that.

Please tell me your next command.
>undo

Turn undone. (You can't use multiple undo's!)

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>undo

You cannot use undo after an undo!

OK, now what?
>open grid

Despite your strength, it's physically not possible to do that.

Please tell me your next command.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a flashlight, a walking stick, a diary, a faded photograph, a faded bank receipt, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a vial, a glass shard, a silver crucifix, a letter, a billet and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves. 

Please tell me your next command.
>pry grate with stick

I'm not sure what you mean when you say that.

Please enter your instructions.
>open grate with stick

Let me see... open the grate? The stick isn't going to do that.

OK, now what?
>put stick in grate

You try reaching down with the stick, but the key is too far down and the stick is not magnetic.

Please enter your instructions.
>* alas

Not really knowing exactly what you mean, I will delay doing that.

Please tell me your next command.
>l

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>e

You set off east.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

What now?
>x cross

This ancient, weathered cross gives the impression that it was erected here for some important reason as if to mark a significant spot on the terrain... However, the markings are far too eroded by time to be anywhere near legible.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>w

You begin moving west.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

What now?
>s

You go south.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.
Exits lead: north and east.

Please enter your instructions.
>x springs

You examine the edges of the main spring pool. Underneath a loose stone near the water, you find a small coin.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.
Exits lead: north and east.
You notice: an ancient coin.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x cin

You're not sure what cin is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>coin

Coin: A small gold Visigothic coin.

OK, now what?
>ke it

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

Please enter your instructions.
>take it

You now have the coin.

Tell me what to do next please.
>l

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.
Exits lead: north and east.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x bushes

You investigate the base of the hill and the thick preponderance of bushes. You come across a faint path partially hidden there. You push the foliage aside and discover a narrow, dark opening leading into the hillside - a hidden cave entrance.
Hang on! You explore further. There's something else here too...
A rusted old locked gate that bars the entrance to yet another cave that leads southwest under the cliff.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>* blarg

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x gate

You see an old rusted iron gate blocking a narrow passage to the southwest. It is locked.

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You move west.

A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You go north.

It's pitch dark in here. You can't see anything. The darkness is absolute. You can hear only the echo of your own breathing.

What now?
>turn on flashlight

Ok. You turn on the flashlight. It glows brightly.
The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A narrow, damp tunnel carved through the limestone. Ancient markings can be seen on the walls.
Exits lead: north and south.

What now?
>x markings

You shine your flashlight on to the walls to investigate the markings. Nothing to learn here as they are written in a totally incomprehensible language that is completely foreign to your understanding.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>n

You go north.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A small, surprisingly well-preserved chamber. There are some stone shelves here. Cathar symbols are visible on the walls.
Exits lead: south only.

Please tell me your next command.
>x chelves

You're not sure what chelves is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

Please enter your instructions.
>x symbols

Symbols: Doesn't seem to be anything that is of particular importance to you at all.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x shelves

You carefully search the ancient shelves. You find a fragile Cathar scroll.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A small, surprisingly well-preserved chamber. There are some stone shelves here. Cathar symbols are visible on the walls.
Exits lead: south only.
Visible to the eye:  a Cathar scroll.

What now?
>x scroll

Scroll: A fragile scroll with Cathar writing and unusual diagrams.

Please enter your instructions.
>take it

You now have the scroll.

Tell me what to do next please.
>read it

The ancient scroll is written in medieval Occitan with some Latin. The language is difficult, but one passage is clearer:

"The Perfecti guarded the true Light. When the flames came, they hid it not in gold, but in knowledge. It waits where the lines converge beneath."

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You go south.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A narrow, damp tunnel carved through the limestone. Ancient markings can be seen on the walls.
Exits lead: north and south.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You begin moving south.

A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

Tell me what to do next please.
>turn off flashlight

Ok. You turn off the flashlight.
A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

OK, now what?
>e

You set off east.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

OK, now what?
>e

You move east.

An old, decaying farmhouse on the outskirts. The interior is filled with forgotten belongings. The roof is partially collapsed, and dust covers everything. Broken furniture is scattered around.
An elderly, weathered man is sitting on an old wooden chair in the corner, smoking a hand-rolled cigarette. He has rough, calloused hands and a deeply lined face. He looks up at you with cautious, steady eyes but says nothing at first.
Exits lead: west only.
Pierre the farmer is here.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x furniture

You search through the debris and old furniture.  You find a theodolite and a couple of other things.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

An old, decaying farmhouse on the outskirts. The interior is filled with forgotten belongings. The roof is partially collapsed, and dust covers everything. Broken furniture is scattered around.
Exits lead: west only.
You discern:  a spade, a theodolite and an ancient leather pouch.
Pierre the farmer is here.

Please tell me your next command.
>* yay spade

You sure you know what you're talking about?

Please enter your instructions.
>x theodolite

Theodolite: It's a useful precision instrument for measuring and surveying between visible points. To use it just SURVEY or MEASURE. (If you are at a high vantage point in the right countryside places)

What now?
>take it

You now have the theodolite.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take spade

You now have the spade.

Please enter your instructions.
>x it

Spade: A useful digging implement.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>pouch

Pouch: Can be worn and it's a big enough container to hold a few things too.

What now?
>take it

You now have the pouch.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>open it

You don't see a way to open the pouch that you have with you.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>wear it

You're now wearing the pouch.

OK, now what?
>put all in pouch

You drop the parchment, note, fragment, map, miniature, mirror, ink, spade, flashlight, stick, theodolite, diary, coin, photo, receipt, scroll, clipping, vial, shard, crucifix, letter, billet and guide into the pouch.

Tell me what to do next please.
>i

You are carrying:  nothing at all. You are wearing rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch.  In the pouch is:  a coded parchment, a note, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a flashlight, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a vial, a glass shard, a silver crucifix, a letter, a billet and a tourist guide.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take spade

If you want the spade you'll have to first tell me to take it out of the container that it is in.

What now?
>sorry farmer

I'm not sure what you mean when you say that.

Please tell me your next command.
>take spade from pouch

You now have the spade.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x pierre

Pierre: A taciturn local farmer who you suspect could know the hills better than anyone around here.
He is a weathered old man with rough hands and a deeply lined face.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>talk to pierre

The old man takes a slow drag on his cigarette, studying you for a moment before speaking in a gravelly voice.

"You’re not from around here… or maybe you are now. What brings you poking around this old ruin?"

What now?
>ask pierre about rennes

Pierre: "I don't have anything to say about that."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask pierre about town

Pierre: "I don't have anything to say about that."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask pierre about damien

Pierre: "Sharp-dressed man. Too sharp. Been sniffing around lately. Doesn’t belong here. I don’t trust him."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask pierre about moreau

Pierre: "Dr. Moreau? Skinny fellow, always asking questions. Came around here a lot lately. Looked worried last time I saw him. Told him some doors should stay shut."

OK, now what?
>ask pierre about map

Pierre: "I don't have anything to say about that."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask pierre about alignmnet

Pierre the farmer says: "I know nothing of such things."

Please enter your instructions.
>ask pierre about crystal

Pierre: "I don't have anything to say about that."

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You begin moving west.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

What now?
>n

You move north.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>n

You begin moving north.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>n

You set off north.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>e

You move east.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>n

You move north.

The private garden at the rear of Saunière’s villa is beautifully landscaped but feels strangely secretive. It's beautifully designed with geometric flowerbeds in unusual arrangements. The layout feels deliberate - almost like a code in itself.
One of the geometric flowerbeds looks slightly disturbed, as if the soil has been turned over more recently than the rest.
Exits lead: north and south.

Tell me what to do next please.
>dig flowerbed

You choose the disturbed section of the flowerbed and begin digging with the spade. After a few minutes of effort, the blade strikes something solid. You uncover a small, weathered metal box buried just beneath the surface. Inside are some old gold coins and a brittle card which bears Saunière’s handwriting. You take them out and dispose of the small, weathered box.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x box

Box: Looks as if it's not particularly relevant or meaningful in any special way at all...

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x coins

You examine the ancient gold coins. They feel surprisingly heavy and have a rich, warm lustre. They are very old - possibly Visigothic or Merovingian in origin. 

These are not the sort of coins one would expect to find casually buried in a French garden. They look as though they have travelled a very long way… or perhaps through a very long time.

Please tell me your next command.
>take coins

You are already carrying the coins.

Please enter your instructions.
>x card

Card: It is in Saunière’s handwriting, but appears written in a simple code.

Tell me what to do next please.
>read it

You look at the card. It is covered in Saunière’s handwriting, but written in a simple code:

"UIF TFDSFU JT OPU JO UIF HPME.  
UIF USVF USFBTVSF MJFT XIFSF UIF MJOFT NFFU.
TFFL CFOFBUI."

The find of the card fills you with excitement. What is Saunière trying to say here?"

Please enter your instructions.
>put ink on card

You can't see any ink!

Tell me what to do next please.
>take ink from pouch

You now have the ink.

Tell me what to do next please.
>put ink on card

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the card.

Please tell me your next command.
>* cipher looks like rot1 if uif is the

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>* yup, and all the same info as before

Not really knowing exactly what you mean, I will delay doing that.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>decipher card

You look at the card. It is covered in Saunière’s handwriting, but written in a simple code:

"UIF TFDSFU JT OPU JO UIF HPME.  
UIF USVF USFBTVSF MJFT XIFSF UIF MJOFT NFFU.
TFFL CFOFBUI."

The find of the card fills you with excitement. What is Saunière trying to say here?"

I'm waiting for your commands.
>w

You can't go west at this moment.

Exits lead: north and south.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You go south.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You move west.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?
>s

You move south.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>e

You set off east.

Local Café “Le Bellevue”.
A small, friendly café in the village with a terrace offering excellent views. The aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. The owner, Madame Claudine Duval knows many old stories. A few locals sit at tables, chatting quietly. The large windows offer a beautiful view over the valley.
Exits lead: west only.
Madame Claudine Duval is behind the counter and Isabelle, Moreau's daughter, is sitting here.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You set off west.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Please enter your instructions.
>s

You move south.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

What now?
>e

You move east.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Please tell me your next command.
>x cross

This ancient, weathered cross gives the impression that it was erected here for some important reason as if to mark a significant spot on the terrain... However, the markings are far too eroded by time to be anywhere near legible.

Please enter your instructions.
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>w

You move west.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Please tell me your next command.
>n

You go north.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>s

You move south.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Please enter your instructions.
>s

You begin moving south.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>w

You move west.

A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>e

You move east.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>e

You begin moving east.

An old, decaying farmhouse on the outskirts. The interior is filled with forgotten belongings. The roof is partially collapsed, and dust covers everything. Broken furniture is scattered around.
Exits lead: west only.
Pierre the farmer is here.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x furniture

You conduct another extensive search of the farm to no avail.

What now?
>w

You go west.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...

>Whoops! Please type something in.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You begin moving north.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

OK, now what?

>Whoops! Please type something in.

Tell me what to do next please.
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

What now?
>n

You set off north.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>n

You set off north.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>e

You move east.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>n

You go north.

The private garden at the rear of Saunière’s villa is beautifully landscaped but feels strangely secretive. It's beautifully designed with geometric flowerbeds in unusual arrangements. The layout feels deliberate - almost like a code in itself.
One of the geometric flowerbeds looks slightly disturbed, as if the soil has been turned over more recently than the rest.
Exits lead: north and south.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

Please enter your instructions.
>s

You go south.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You set off west.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?
>n

You go north.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>s

You move south.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?

>Whoops! Please type something in.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>s

You go south.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>e

You begin moving east.

Local Café “Le Bellevue”.
A small, friendly café in the village with a terrace offering excellent views. The aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. The owner, Madame Claudine Duval knows many old stories. A few locals sit at tables, chatting quietly. The large windows offer a beautiful view over the valley.
Exits lead: west only.
Madame Claudine Duval is behind the counter and Isabelle, Moreau's daughter, is sitting here.

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You move west.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.

>Whoops! Please type something in.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You begin moving south.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Tell me what to do next please.
>e

You set off east.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Please tell me your next command.
>n

You begin moving north.

Cardou peak offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire valley. Several churches and hills create strange geometric alignments when viewed from here.
Exits lead: south only.

Please tell me your next command.
>measure

You do not appear to own a surveying/measuring tool!

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x alignments

You will need your map in order to make comparisons with the lines, points and alignments.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take map from pouch

You now have the map.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take theodolite from pouch

You now have the theodolite.

Please enter your instructions.
>measure

From the peak of Cardou, you carefully take extensive measurements with the theodolite. The results are remarkable.

The theodolite confirms a perfect geometric alignment between seven key points across the valley: the ancient cross, the Church of St Mary Magdalene, the old, windswept hill, the stone circle, and three other significant locations.

A clear central axis emerges - running directly through the valley.
***Your score just went up by 5 points.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x map

Map: A large topographic map with several handwritten marks and points connected by lines.

Please enter your instructions.
>read map

You spread out the large topographic map of the Rennes-le-Château region.

Several locations are marked with pencil circles and small notes in Dr. Moreau’s handwriting:

• "Alignment point?" near the Peak of Cardou  
• "Possible tunnel entrance" near the old thermal springs  
• "The line?" drawn between several ancient landmarks and churches

A small handwritten note in the corner reads:  
"Seven points. One axis. The key is alignment."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x alignment

You're not sure what alignment is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

What now?
>l

Cardou peak offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire valley. Several churches and hills create strange geometric alignments when viewed from here.
Exits lead: south only.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x alignments

You study the landscape carefully, comparing it with your topographic map of the area. Several prominent landmarks form clear straight lines and geometric patterns. One line in particular stands out - it seems to connect significant points across the valley. Well done for identifying that.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x map

Map: A large topographic map with several handwritten marks and points connected by lines.

Tell me what to do next please.
>* ok now what?

You sure you know what you're talking about?

Please tell me your next command.
>x axis

You study the landscape carefully, comparing it with your topographic map of the area. Several prominent landmarks form clear straight lines and geometric patterns. One line in particular stands out - it seems to connect significant points across the valley. Well done for identifying that.

Please tell me your next command.
>l

Cardou peak offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire valley. Several churches and hills create strange geometric alignments when viewed from here.
Exits lead: south only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>s

You set off south.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Please tell me your next command.
>s

You set off south.

A crumbling ancient castle perched on a rocky outcrop. Wind whistles through the broken walls. There are excellent views of the surrounding countryside.
Exits lead: north only.

Please enter your instructions.
>measure

This is not one of the key locations for measuring or conducting a survey.

OK, now what?
>x castle

Castle: Must have been an important building back in the day.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x walls

While searching the ruined walls, you find a small electrocompass hidden in a crevice.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

A crumbling ancient castle perched on a rocky outcrop. Wind whistles through the broken walls. There are excellent views of the surrounding countryside.
Exits lead: north only.
You discern:  an electrocompass.

Please enter your instructions.
>x compass

Electrocompass: A compact gizmo made of brass with a small metal button on the side. You know it to be an automatic geomagnetic sensing device that picks up high frequency electromagnetic vibrations at certain hotspots on the landscape. It may also indicate or point to a suitable above-ground location to conduct a survey.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>take it

You now have the compass.

Tell me what to do next please.
>push button

Nothing happens when you push the button on the electrocompass.

What now?
>n

You go north.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>push button

Nothing happens when you push the button on the electrocompass.

OK, now what?
>n

You begin moving north.

Cardou peak offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire valley. Several churches and hills create strange geometric alignments when viewed from here.

Suddenly the electrocompass starts buzzing. The needle spins wildly for a moment, then settles firmly, pointing in a direction that appears to be indicating one of the hidden alignment lines at a stone circle.

Exits lead: south only.

Please tell me your next command.
>push button

You press the button on the electrocompass. The needle spins wildly for a moment, then settles firmly, pointing in a direction that appears to be indicating one of the hidden alignment lines at a stone circle.

Please tell me your next command.
>x circle

I don't believe it's worth examining the circle. Maybe it's just not important at all.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You begin moving south.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

OK, now what?
>w

You set off west.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Please enter your instructions.
>push button

Nothing happens when you push the button on the electrocompass.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>n

You move north.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?
>push button

Nothing happens when you push the button on the electrocompass.

What now?
>n

You begin moving north.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

OK, now what?
>n

You move north.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Tell me what to do next please.
>push button

Nothing happens when you push the button on the electrocompass.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You go north.

Here is the richly decorated altar. The place where Saunière made mysterious changes. The statues of saints seem to watch you with unusual intensity.
Exits lead: south and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>push button

Nothing happens when you push the button on the electrocompass.

What now?
>s

You move south.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>s

You move south.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You go south.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You set off south.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Tell me what to do next please.
>e

You move east.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

What now?
>score

Your score is 70 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.
You have taken 410 turns.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>e

You begin moving east.

A high, windswept hilltop. From here, several distant landmarks create strange geometric alignments. The wind is strong here.

The electrocompass makes a buzzing sound. The needle points steadily toward a distant hilltop, then shifts slightly as if tracing an invisible line across the landscape to the nearby summit of Cardou Peak.

Exits lead: west only.

OK, now what?
>x alignments

You study the landscape carefully, comparing it with your topographic map of the area. There's definately a pattern emerging that connects several prominent landmarks in the valley.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x map

Map: A large topographic map with several handwritten marks and points connected by lines.

Tell me what to do next please.
>measure

Standing on the ancient, windswept hill, you take several measurements using the theodolite. The results are striking - the positioning of the hilltop creates clear straight lines that connect to distant churches and hills.

You note that several readings converge toward the peak of Cardou. The pattern is becoming clearer, but something is still missing. You feel you need another higher vantage point for the complete picture.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>l

A high, windswept hilltop. From here, several distant landmarks create strange geometric alignments. The wind is strong here.
Exits lead: west only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>w

You move west.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Please tell me your next command.
>se

You begin moving southeast.

You are in the countryside.
A small, little-known, weathered stone circle is hidden amongst the garrigue.

The electrocompass begins to buzz softly. The needle swings and settles, pointing directly at a high, windswept hill. You feel a subtle resonance between the compass and the high, windswept hill.

Exits lead: northwest only.
Also here you can see:  a lodestone.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x circle

You walk around the stone circle and notice the comparisons with your map. The circle aligns perfectly with several distant landmarks. You feel a subtle energy here - as if this is one of the "key points" mentioned in the parchments.

Tell me what to do next please.
>measure

Using the theodolite you carefully take readings between the major landmarks visible from here.

You take careful readings from the centre of the stone circle. The circle seems to align with several prominent landmarks visible on the horizon.

The readings suggest this circle sits on one of the important geometric points. However, the pattern feels incomplete from here - as though this is only one piece of a much larger design.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.
You carefully put away the theodolite and stand for a moment, taking in the vast landscape.

After taking readings from the stone circle, the old windswept hill, and the peak of Cardou, the full pattern has finally become clear. The seven sacred points across the Rennes valley form a perfect geometric alignment - an ancient design of immense precision and purpose.

You now understand what Saunière was obsessively studying. The lines are real. The "Axis" exists.

You feel you have learned everything these measurements can teach you. There is no need to survey any more locations.

The pieces of the puzzle are starting to fit together.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>* ok...

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

I'm waiting for your commands.
>l

You are in the countryside.
A small, little-known, weathered stone circle is hidden amongst the garrigue.
Exits lead: northwest only.
Your gaze falls upon:  a lodestone.

Please tell me your next command.
>x lodestone

Lodestone: A clear, natural magnet that strongly attracts metal. It has a half-inch diameter hole drilled through its centre.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take it

You now have the lodestone.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>n

You can't see a way to be able to go north.

Exits lead: northwest only.

What now?
>nw

You move northwest.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You begin moving west.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
You can just about see the strange iron key resting at the bottom of the cattle grid.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Please enter your instructions.
>get key

You would have to be near to the key to be able to get it. You can't do that from here.

Please tell me your next command.
>take key with lodestone

You try reaching down with the lodestone, but the key is too far down to be attracted.

Please enter your instructions.
>put lodestone on stock

Sorry, but you can't put the lodestone on the stock.

You would really need to know what or where the stock is first!

OK, now what?
>put lodestone on stick

Well there is no way you can put the lodestone on the stick. You must find some other way.

OK, now what?
>x stick

There isn't one of those here.

Please tell me your next command.
>take stick from pouch

You now have the stick.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>put lodestone on stick

You push the hole in the lodestone over the metal tip at the base of your walking stick. It fits snugly and holds firmly in place.

Tell me what to do next please.
>get key with stock

Sorry, but you can't get the key with the stock.

You would really need to know what or where the stock is first!

Please enter your instructions.
>get key with stick

You carefully lower the walking stick with the lodestone attached into the gap in the cattle grid. After a few moments of maneuvering, you feel the magnet catch hold of the iron key. Slowly and steadily, you pull the stick back up. The strange iron key is now firmly stuck to the lodestone. You quickly retrieve the key and dismantle the lodestone from your stick.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

Please tell me your next command.
>score

Your score is 85 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.
You have taken 431 turns.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>s

You set off south.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>unlock gate with key

You examine the old rusted iron gate blocking the narrow southwest passage. It is firmly locked.

You have a strong feeling that you're not yet ready to venture down this path. Perhaps you should explore more of the village and surrounding area first.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>save

Game position saved.

Tell me what to do next please.
>* hmm

I'm not sure what you mean when you say that.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>e

You set off east.

An old, decaying farmhouse on the outskirts. The interior is filled with forgotten belongings. The roof is partially collapsed, and dust covers everything. Broken furniture is scattered around.
Exits lead: west only.
Pierre the farmer is here.

Please enter your instructions.
>n

You can't go north at this moment.

Exits lead: west only.

OK, now what?
>w

You set off west.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

OK, now what?
>n

You move north.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>e

You go east.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You begin moving north.

Cardou peak offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire valley. Several churches and hills create strange geometric alignments when viewed from here.
Exits lead: south only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x alignments

You study the landscape carefully, comparing it with your topographic map of the area. Several prominent landmarks form clear straight lines and geometric patterns. One line in particular stands out - it seems to connect significant points across the valley. Well done for identifying that.

Please enter your instructions.
>x line

Line: Doesn't seem to be anything that is of particular importance to you at all.

Please tell me your next command.
>i

You are carrying:  a topographic map, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a walking stick, a theodolite, some gold coins, a brittle card and an electrocompass. You are wearing rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch.  In the pouch is:  a coded parchment, a note, a vellum fragment, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a silver mirror, a flashlight, a diary, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a vial, a glass shard, a silver crucifix, a letter, a billet and a tourist guide.

OK, now what?
>l

Cardou peak offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire valley. Several churches and hills create strange geometric alignments when viewed from here.
Exits lead: south only.

Please tell me your next command.
>s

You begin moving south.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Please tell me your next command.
>x cross

This ancient, weathered cross gives the impression that it was erected here for some important reason as if to mark a significant spot on the terrain... However, the markings are far too eroded by time to be anywhere near legible.

What now?
>put ink on cross

No chance you can put the ink on the cross. Please think of something else.

Please tell me your next command.
>i

You are carrying:  a topographic map, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a walking stick, a theodolite, some gold coins, a brittle card and an electrocompass. You are wearing rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch.  In the pouch is:  a coded parchment, a note, a vellum fragment, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a silver mirror, a flashlight, a diary, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, a yellowed newspaper clipping, a vial, a glass shard, a silver crucifix, a letter, a billet and a tourist guide.

Tell me what to do next please.
>put ink on map

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the map.

OK, now what?
>take parchment

If you want the parchment you'll have to first tell me to take it out of the container that it is in.

OK, now what?
>take all from pouch

You have removed the parchment, note, fragment, miniature, mirror, flashlight, diary, coin, photo, receipt, scroll, clipping, vial, shard, crucifix, letter, billet and guide from the pouch.

What now?
>put ink on all

No chance you can put the ink on the all. Please think of something else.

Please tell me your next command.
>put ink on billet

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the billet.

Please tell me your next command.
>put ink on clipping

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the clipping.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>put ink on scroll

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the scroll.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>put ink on fragment

You carefully dab a small amount of the special ink on to the vellum fragment.

Hidden text slowly becomes visible:

"Beneath lies that which the Perfecti protected.  
Not gold for kings, but knowledge for the pure of heart.  

The Alignment Crystal is the key and the lock.  
Use it wisely, or become its servant."

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

Tell me what to do next please.
>score

Your score is 90 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.
You have taken 455 turns.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>w

You move west.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Please tell me your next command.
>w

You can't see a way to be able to go west.

Exits lead: north, south and east.

Please enter your instructions.
>e

You move east.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You begin moving west.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Please enter your instructions.
>s

You set off south.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>sw

You can't see a way to be able to go southwest.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>open gate

However hard you try, this gate is not for budging.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>w

You move west.

A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

OK, now what?
>e

You begin moving east.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

What now?
>unlock gate with key

The rusted gate resists all your attempts to open it. It feels almost as if something is holding it shut - or waiting for the right moment.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>smell

You smell to see if there is anything in the air.

Nothing untoward as far as you can make out.

What now?
>w

You go west.

A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

Please tell me your next command.
>n

You go north.

It's pitch dark in here. You can't see anything. The darkness is absolute. You can hear only the echo of your own breathing.

What now?
>turn on flashlight

Ok. You turn on the flashlight. It glows brightly.
The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A narrow, damp tunnel carved through the limestone. Ancient markings can be seen on the walls.
Exits lead: north and south.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x markings

You shine your flashlight on to the walls to investigate the markings. Nothing to learn here as they are written in a totally incomprehensible language that is completely foreign to your understanding.

What now?
>n

You go north.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A small, surprisingly well-preserved chamber. There are some stone shelves here. Cathar symbols are visible on the walls.
Exits lead: south only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x shelves

Another search of the area proves fruitless.

Please tell me your next command.
>s

You move south.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A narrow, damp tunnel carved through the limestone. Ancient markings can be seen on the walls.
Exits lead: north and south.

What now?
>e

You can't go east at this moment.

Exits lead: north and south.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You set off south.

A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

Tell me what to do next please.
>turn off flashlight

Ok. You turn off the flashlight.
A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

Please tell me your next command.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a flashlight, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, some gold coins, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a brittle card, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, a yellowed newspaper clipping, an electrocompass, a vial, a glass shard, a silver crucifix, a letter, a billet and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch. 

Tell me what to do next please.
>put ink on map

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the map.

What now?
>put ink on photograph

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the photo.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>e

You begin moving east.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

Please enter your instructions.

>Whoops! Please type something in.

Please enter your instructions.
>n

You begin moving north.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

What now?
>n

You move north.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Please enter your instructions.
>n

You set off north.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>w

You move west.

Bookshop - "Le Trésor Perdu".
A small, dimly lit bookshop. Shelves crammed with works on Rennes-le-Château, the Cathars, the Templars and esoteric subjects line every wall. The air is thick with the smell of old paper, leather bindings, and dust. Behind the counter stands an elderly man with wire-rimmed glasses, watching you intently.
Exits lead: east and west.
Victor Lang, the bookseller, is behind the counter.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>talk to victor

Bookseller: "Another one chasing Saunière’s ghost? Most leave disappointed... or worse. What do you want?" The old man looks you up and down.

OK, now what?
>show map to victor

Victor: "This is interesting as well, Travers. I must say you seem to be a cut above the usual treasure hunter we get around these parts. I'm impressed. But what is it all leading to?"

What now?
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a flashlight, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, some gold coins, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a brittle card, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, a yellowed newspaper clipping, an electrocompass, a vial, a glass shard, a silver crucifix, a letter, a billet and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch. 

Please enter your instructions.
>show scroll to victor

Victor: "This is interesting as well, Travers. I must say you seem to be a cut above the usual treasure hunter we get around these parts. I'm impressed. But what is it all leading to?"

Please enter your instructions.
>show photo to victor

Victor: "This is interesting as well, Travers. I must say you seem to be a cut above the usual treasure hunter we get around these parts. I'm impressed. But what is it all leading to?"

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask victor about photo

Victor: "I can't help you there, I'm afraid."

What now?
>w

You go west.

The back of the bookshop. This is clearly Victor Lang’'s private room. Shelves groan under the weight of rare and forbidden books. A large oak desk is covered with maps and notes.
Exits lead: east only.
Visible to the eye:  some faded blueprints.

Please enter your instructions.
>x desk

Nothing else comes to light.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>take blueprints

You now have the blueprints.

Please tell me your next command.
>x blueprints

Blueprints: Old architectural blueprints of the church and villa with mysterious notes.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>read blueprints

These old architectural plans show the church and Villa Bethania. At the bottom are some notes in Saunière’s hand:

"Hidden basement?"  
"Church aligns with three prominent landmarks?"  
"One cave where the light must converge."

Please tell me your next command.
>e

Upon your return to the front of the shop Victor Lang fails to notice that you have taken some of his property...

Bookshop - "Le Trésor Perdu".
A small, dimly lit bookshop. Shelves crammed with works on Rennes-le-Château, the Cathars, the Templars and esoteric subjects line every wall. The air is thick with the smell of old paper, leather bindings, and dust. Behind the counter stands an elderly man with wire-rimmed glasses, watching you intently.
Exits lead: east and west.
Victor Lang, the bookseller, is behind the counter.

Tell me what to do next please.
>e

As you step back out of the main bookshop, you notice the same mysterious stranger standing across the street. He doesn’t move when you look at him.
You move to confront the stranger - but he has already vanished around the corner.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>n

You begin moving north.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

What now?
>x statue

You examine the famous carved devil. The figure is grotesque yet strangely compelling- a hunched, demonic Asmodeus. 
His expression is one of grim resignation, as though he has been forced to serve a higher purpose against his will. You can't shake the feeling that this is more than just a provocative decoration placed here by Saunière.

OK, now what?
>measure

No further measuring or surveying is required now. You have found six of the seven alignments. The final seventh lies beneath!

Please enter your instructions.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a flashlight, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, some gold coins, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a brittle card, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, a yellowed newspaper clipping, an electrocompass, a vial, a glass shard, some faded blueprints, a silver crucifix, a letter, a billet and a tourist guide. You are wearing rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch. 

Tell me what to do next please.
>put vial on statue

No chance you can put the vial on the statue. Please think of something else.

OK, now what?
>x shard

Shard: A sharp, red-stained glass shard.

Tell me what to do next please.
>look through shard

You asked me to look through shard but I'm having trouble doing that command.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>n

You begin moving north.

Here is the richly decorated altar. The place where Saunière made mysterious changes. The statues of saints seem to watch you with unusual intensity.
Exits lead: south and west.

Please enter your instructions.
>x altar

You approach the main altar. It is richly decorated. The surface is smooth from years of use, yet something about its proportions and positioning seems purposeful - almost as if it were designed to align with something beyond the church walls.  A further lengthy scrutiny of the altar brings nothing more to light.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>measure

No further measuring or surveying is required now. You have found six of the seven alignments. The final seventh lies beneath!

I'm waiting for your commands.
>w

You set off west.

You sit on a bench in the small, wooden confessional where Father Saunière reportedly made his most significant discovery. An intricately carved panel faces you.
Exits lead: east only.
Father Laurent is here and Sister Marie-Claire is close by.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x panel

Your search confirms that there are no more loose sections or hidden secret spaces evident.

Tell me what to do next please.
>show photo to nun

Sister Marie Claire didn't seem overly impressed by the photo.

OK, now what?
>show photo to father

Father Laurent didn't seem overly impressed by the photo.

What now?
>e

You begin moving east.

Here is the richly decorated altar. The place where Saunière made mysterious changes. The statues of saints seem to watch you with unusual intensity.
Exits lead: south and west.

OK, now what?

>Whoops! Please type something in.

What now?
>s

You begin moving south.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

OK, now what?
>e

You begin moving east.

An old cemetery. Weathered gravestones lean at odd angles among wild grass and wild flowers. The wind whispers through the cypress trees. One grave in particular stands out to the southwest. The final resting place of Bérenger Saunière himself.
Exits lead: west and southwest.
Mademoiselle Sophie Blanc is here.

Please tell me your next command.
>sw

You go southwest.

A quiet corner of the cemetery where Bérenger Saunière himself is buried. The gravestone is surprisingly modest considering the wealth he once possessed.
Exits lead: northeast only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x gravestone

You spend more time inspecting the grave area - but nothing else surfaces.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>ne

You begin moving northeast.

An old cemetery. Weathered gravestones lean at odd angles among wild grass and wild flowers. The wind whispers through the cypress trees. One grave in particular stands out to the southwest. The final resting place of Bérenger Saunière himself.
Exits lead: west and southwest.
Mademoiselle Sophie Blanc is here.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You go west.

The famous church where Bérenger Saunière once served. The interior is strangely opulent for such a small village. A sense of secrets lingers here. A large demonic statue stands near the entrance - one of Saunière’s famous eccentric touches.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

Please tell me your next command.
>s

You go south.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Please tell me your next command.
>e

You set off east.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x desk

A further thorough search of the writing desk reveals nothing further.

Please tell me your next command.
>n

You go north.

The private garden at the rear of Saunière’s villa is beautifully landscaped but feels strangely secretive. It's beautifully designed with geometric flowerbeds in unusual arrangements. The layout feels deliberate - almost like a code in itself.
One of the geometric flowerbeds looks slightly disturbed, as if the soil has been turned over more recently than the rest.
Exits lead: north and south.

Please enter your instructions.
>x flowerbeds

You thought it looked familiar. The garden layout matches certain landscape alignments visible on your topographic map of the area. Saunière clearly designed this garden with a specific purpose in mind. One of the geometric flowerbeds looks slightly disturbed, as if the soil has been turned over more recently than the rest...

OK, now what?
>n

You go north.

Tour Magdala. (Saunière’s Tower)
The striking tower Saunière built -  the most eccentric and imposing building in Rennes-le-Château. Rising like a medieval watchtower, its crenellated battlements and grand arched windows give it an almost fortress-like appearance. 
The tower stands proudly at the edge of the Villa Bethania garden, commanding breathtaking views over the surrounding garrigue-covered hills and distant mountains. 
A wooden door stands slightly ajar to the north, inviting you inside
Exits lead: north and south.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>* oh duh

You sure you know what you're talking about?

OK, now what?
>x tower

Tour Magdala: It is the name of the famous watchtower built by Sauniere with some of his new-found wealth.

OK, now what?
>n

You begin moving north.

The ground floor of the tower is lined with bookshelves. Many volumes concern the Cathars, the Templars, and esoteric subjects.
Exits lead: south and up.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x bookshelves

You audibly sigh as you realise you must spend time searching through all the various books here in case anything could be hidden there.

However, after some time, your patience and determination are rewarded handsomely when you finally chance upon a hollowed out book that contains a worn leather journal - Saunière’s personal notebook!

The ground floor of the tower is lined with bookshelves. Many volumes concern the Cathars, the Templars, and esoteric subjects.
Exits lead: south and up.
Also here you can see:  Saunière’s notebook.

Please enter your instructions.
>x notebook

Notebook: A worn leather notebook filled with cryptic notes, sketches, and columns of numbers.

Please enter your instructions.
>read it

You open the worn leather notebook. The pages are filled with Bérenger Saunière’s neat but increasingly frantic handwriting.

Many entries mention large sums of money, coded references to "the axis" and "alignments" 

One underlined passage catches your eye:

"I have found something that changes everything. Not gold, but knowledge older than the Church itself. The alignments are the key. May God forgive me for what I have begun."

Tell me what to do next please.
>take notebook

You now have the notebook.

Please tell me your next command.
>u

You set off up.

A spacious room with large windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A telescope stands ready. Strange symbols and planetary alignments are painted on the ceiling.
Exits lead: down only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x ceiling

These symbols and lines seem important in some way. Try as you might, you don't fully comprehend what they represent but you feel certain that there exists an important connection with certain points and hills that are prominent in the surrounding landscape.

Please tell me your next command.
>x telescope

You look through the telescope. It is pointed directly at a distant hill. You recognise it as Cardou Peak. The alignment seems to be on purpose.

Please enter your instructions.
>measure

You set out the theodolite and attempt to take readings from the top of the Tour Magdala. The view is indeed excellent - you can see much of the surrounding countryside from this high vantage point.

However, after several minutes of careful measurement, you realise the alignments feel imprecise and incomplete from here. The tower gives a good general view, but it is not one of the true geometric anchor points you feel Sauniere was studying.

You sense you will need to survey from the more distant natural landmarks in the hills you can see from here. The Peak of Cardou, the windswept hill and the ancient stone circle stand out as likely favourites to get accurate and meaningful readings.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>l

A spacious room with large windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A telescope stands ready. Strange symbols and planetary alignments are painted on the ceiling.
Exits lead: down only.

What now?
>x map

Map: A large topographic map with several handwritten marks and points connected by lines.

Please enter your instructions.
>read map

You spread out the large topographic map of the Rennes-le-Château region.

Several locations are marked with pencil circles and small notes in Dr. Moreau’s handwriting:

• "Alignment point?" near the Peak of Cardou  
• "Possible tunnel entrance" near the old thermal springs  
• "The line?" drawn between several ancient landmarks and churches

A small handwritten note in the corner reads:  
"Seven points. One axis. The key is alignment."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>l

A spacious room with large windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A telescope stands ready. Strange symbols and planetary alignments are painted on the ceiling.
Exits lead: down only.

Please enter your instructions.
>x telescope

You look through the telescope. It is pointed directly at a distant hill. You recognise it as Cardou Peak. The alignment seems to be on purpose.

What now?
>move it

It's not your prerogative to move the telescope.

Tell me what to do next please.
>d

You begin moving down.

The ground floor of the tower is lined with bookshelves. Many volumes concern the Cathars, the Templars, and esoteric subjects.
Exits lead: south and up.

What now?
>s

You begin moving south.

Tour Magdala. (Saunière’s Tower)
The striking tower Saunière built -  the most eccentric and imposing building in Rennes-le-Château. Rising like a medieval watchtower, its crenellated battlements and grand arched windows give it an almost fortress-like appearance. 
The tower stands proudly at the edge of the Villa Bethania garden, commanding breathtaking views over the surrounding garrigue-covered hills and distant mountains. 
A wooden door stands slightly ajar to the north, inviting you inside
Exits lead: north and south.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>s

You begin moving south.

The private garden at the rear of Saunière’s villa is beautifully landscaped but feels strangely secretive. It's beautifully designed with geometric flowerbeds in unusual arrangements. The layout feels deliberate - almost like a code in itself.
One of the geometric flowerbeds looks slightly disturbed, as if the soil has been turned over more recently than the rest.
Exits lead: north and south.

OK, now what?
>s

You begin moving south.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

Please enter your instructions.
>d

You set off down.

It's pitch dark in here. You can't see anything. The darkness is absolute. You can hear only the echo of your own breathing.

Tell me what to do next please.
>turn on flashlight

Ok. You turn on the flashlight. It glows brightly.
The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A hidden basement room beneath the villa. The walls are rough stone, and the air is cool and damp. Old wooden shelves hold dusty boxes. It looks like Saunière used this room for private work.
Exits lead: up only.

Please enter your instructions.
>x shelves

A full search of the basement throws up nothing further.

Tell me what to do next please.
>u

You move up.

You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>turn off flashlight

Ok. You turn off the flashlight.
You stand inside the opulent Villa Bethania, Open to tourists, this is the grand house Bérenger Saunière built with his mysterious wealth. The interior is richly decorated but feels oddly cold and unused. Everything is perfectly preserved, as though time stopped when Saunière died. A large writing desk is here.
Exits lead: north, west and down.

What now?
>w

You set off west.

The heart of the village. A small square with a fountain and benches. A church lies to the north. To the west is a small bookshop. To the east is an opulent villa. The cobbled road is to the south. Tourists are few at this time of year.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?
>s

You move south.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

What now?
>w

You begin moving west.

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x table

There is nothing special about the table.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x tower

Tour Magdala: It is the name of the famous watchtower built by Sauniere with some of his new-found wealth.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>n

You move north.

A warm, lived-in kitchen with a large wooden table. The scent of coffee and dried lavender fills the air. Everything is neat and orderly - the way you like it.
Exits lead: south only.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x table

There is nothing special about the table.

What now?
>s

You move south.

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.

>Whoops! Please type something in.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>w

You set off west.

Your modest bedroom is simply furnished. A comfortable bed and a small desk beside it. The room feels quiet and safe.
Exits lead: east only.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x desk

It has an unlocked drawer.

Please tell me your next command.
>x drawer

Drawer: A wooden drawer that can be opened.

Please enter your instructions.
>e

You begin moving east.

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You go west.

Your modest bedroom is simply furnished. A comfortable bed and a small desk beside it. The room feels quiet and safe.
Exits lead: east only.

What now?
>open drawer

There's nothing in the drawer now. You close it again.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>e

You move east.

You are in your comfortable but cluttered sitting room in an old stone house in Rennes-le-Château. A fire crackles in the hearth. A small table stands in the centre of the room. Through the window you can see the illuminated Tour Magdala against the mid-afternoon sky.
Exits lead: north, east and west.

What now?
>e

You go east.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

Tell me what to do next please.
>e

You set off east.

Local Café “Le Bellevue”.
A small, friendly café in the village with a terrace offering excellent views. The aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. The owner, Madame Claudine Duval knows many old stories. A few locals sit at tables, chatting quietly. The large windows offer a beautiful view over the valley.
Exits lead: west only.
Madame Claudine Duval is behind the counter and Isabelle, Moreau's daughter, is sitting here.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You move west.

A narrow, winding cobbled street typical of the village. The mid-afternoon air is warm and carries the scent of woodsmoke.
Exits lead: north, south, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>s

You set off south.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>e

You go east.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x cross

This ancient, weathered cross gives the impression that it was erected here for some important reason as if to mark a significant spot on the terrain... However, the markings are far too eroded by time to be anywhere near legible.

OK, now what?
>n

You go north.

Cardou peak offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire valley. Several churches and hills create strange geometric alignments when viewed from here.
Exits lead: south only.

OK, now what?
>x alignments

You study the landscape carefully, comparing it with your topographic map of the area. Several prominent landmarks form clear straight lines and geometric patterns. One line in particular stands out - it seems to connect significant points across the valley. Well done for identifying that.

Please tell me your next command.
>s

You go south.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Please tell me your next command.
>s

You set off south.

A crumbling ancient castle perched on a rocky outcrop. Wind whistles through the broken walls. There are excellent views of the surrounding countryside.
Exits lead: north only.

What now?
>x walls

You study the broken walls again, but find nothing of interest.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>n

You move north.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Please enter your instructions.
>e

You set off east.

A high, windswept hilltop. From here, several distant landmarks create strange geometric alignments. The wind is strong here.
Exits lead: west only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x alignments

You study the landscape carefully, comparing it with your topographic map of the area. There's definately a pattern emerging that connects several prominent landmarks in the valley.

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You go west.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

Please enter your instructions.
>se

You move southeast.

You are in the countryside.
A small, little-known, weathered stone circle is hidden amongst the garrigue.
Exits lead: northwest only.
As you study the landscape, you catch movement out of the corner of your eye. The stranger is standing on a distant ridge, watching you through binoculars. He lowers them quickly when he sees you looking and ducks down below the ridge out of your line of sight.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x circle

You walk around the stone circle and notice the comparisons with your map. The circle aligns perfectly with several distant landmarks. You feel a subtle energy here - as if this is one of the "key points" mentioned in the parchments.

What now?
>nw

You go northwest.

A weathered stone cross stands at a crossroads. Strange markings are faintly visible on its base.
Exits lead: north, south, east, west and southeast.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>w

You set off west.

A winding country road leading south from the village toward the spa town of Rennes-les-Bains. The path is bordered by wild garrigue - thyme, lavender, and juniper. An old rusty cattle grid is in the road, its bars worn smooth by years of use. Beyond it, the road continues downhill toward the thermal springs.
Exits lead: north, south and east.

OK, now what?
>s

You set off south.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x springs

There's nothing more to find here.

Please enter your instructions.
>x bushes

Nothing more to discover here.

Please tell me your next command.
>x gate

You see an old rusted iron gate blocking a narrow passage to the southwest. It is locked.

Please tell me your next command.
>sw

You don't see how you can go southwest.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>w

You set off west.

A narrow opening in the rocky hillside, partially concealed by bushes. A cool draft blows from within.
Exits lead: north and east.

OK, now what?
>e

You go east.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

What now?
>e

You go east.

An old, decaying farmhouse on the outskirts. The interior is filled with forgotten belongings. The roof is partially collapsed, and dust covers everything. Broken furniture is scattered around.
Exits lead: west only.
Pierre the farmer is here.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x furniture

You conduct another extensive search of the farm to no avail.

Please tell me your next command.
>* huh

I'm not sure what you mean when you say that.

OK, now what?
>hint

There are no hints in this game. Type in and enter HELP or INFO for more information.

Please enter your instructions.
>help

Type INFO for system commands. 

What now?
>mediate

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

What now?
>meditate

I'm not sure what you mean when you say that.

What now?
>meditate

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

What now?
>enlighten

I'm not sure what you mean when you say that.

OK, now what?
>* it's in the help text!

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

OK, now what?
>menu on

Menu is on.

Please enter your instructions.
>score

Your score is 90 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.
You have taken 594 turns.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>l

An old, decaying farmhouse on the outskirts. The interior is filled with forgotten belongings. The roof is partially collapsed, and dust covers everything. Broken furniture is scattered around.
Exits lead: west only.
Pierre the farmer is here.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>w

You move west.

The small town of Rennes-les-Bains below Rennes-le-Château. Warm mineral water flows from ancient springs.The air is humid and carries a faint sulphurous smell. A few locals sit quietly on benches, enjoying the healing waters. A steep hill lies to the west. A dense cluster of bushes are at its base.

Hidden behind the bushes to the southwest is a rusted gate. Hidden behind the bushes to the west is the opening to a small cave.

Exits lead: north, east and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>open gate

However hard you try, this gate is not for budging.

What now?
>unlock gate with key

After everything you've discovered across the village and hills, you feel a quiet sense of readiness. You insert the strange iron key into the ancient lock.

With a loud, grating creak, the rusted gate slowly swings open, revealing the narrow passage beyond. You now have access to the southwest.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

OK, now what?
>* oh ok

You sure you know what you're talking about?

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>sw

You move southwest.

It's pitch dark in here. You can't see anything. The darkness is absolute. You can hear only the echo of your own breathing.

What now?
>turn on flashlight

Ok. You turn on the flashlight. It glows brightly.
The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A tight, damp cave in the hillside. The floor is uneven and slippery.
Exits lead: north and northeast.

Please enter your instructions.
>n

You move north.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A small, beautifully preserved underground chapel with faded Cathar symbols on the walls. There is an altar here.
Exits lead: north and south.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x altar

You've found something!

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A small, beautifully preserved underground chapel with faded Cathar symbols on the walls. There is an altar here.
Exits lead: north and south.
You notice: a cathar ring.

Please tell me your next command.
>x ring

Ring: A heavy silver cathar ring.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>take ring

You now have the ring.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You begin moving north.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A natural cavern deep underground. Ancient markings on the walls correspond to surface landmarks.

Deep underground, the electrocompass becomes highly active. It makes a buzzing sound. The needle spins excitedly and then locks firmly in one direction, pointing deeper into the caves to the north.

Exits lead: south and west.
Also here you can see:  a carved stone tile.

OK, now what?
>wear ring

You're now wearing the ring.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>push button

Deep underground, the electrocompass becomes highly active. It makes a buzzing sound. The needle spins excitedly and then locks firmly in one direction, pointing deeper into the caves. 

Please tell me your next command.
>x tile

Tile: A  small, flat rectangular stone tile engraved with intersecting lines and geometrical patterns. 

I'm waiting for your commands.
>push tile

If it will make you happy I will push the tile that is close by on the ground.

There! it moved it a few inches.

Please enter your instructions.
>g

If it will make you happy I will push the tile that is close by on the ground.

There! it moved it a few inches.

OK, now what?
>n

You don't see how you can go north.

Exits lead: south and west.

Please enter your instructions.
>w

You move west.

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
Before you lies:  a pocket watch and some modern research papers.
Damien Roche is standing here.
Damien Roche regards you with a cold, appraising smile.

"Well, well. You must be Kim Travers. Moreau mentioned you. I see you’ve decided to join the game. How charming."
The tall man in the dark coat stands in the shadows at the back of the cavern, silently observing the scene. He gives you a small, knowing nod before slipping out of sight deeper into the darkness.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>undo

Turn undone. (You can't use multiple undo's!)

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A natural cavern deep underground. Ancient markings on the walls correspond to surface landmarks.
Exits lead: south and west.
Also here you can see:  a carved stone tile.

Please tell me your next command.
>save

Game position saved.

OK, now what?
>w

You set off west.

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
Your gaze falls upon:  a pocket watch and some modern research papers.
Damien Roche is standing here.
Damien Roche regards you with a cold, appraising smile.

"Well, well. You must be Kim Travers. Moreau mentioned you. I see you’ve decided to join the game. How charming."
The tall man in the dark coat stands in the shadows at the back of the cavern, silently observing the scene. He gives you a small, knowing nod before slipping out of sight deeper into the darkness.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>l

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
Your gaze falls upon:  a pocket watch and some modern research papers.
Damien Roche is standing here.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x damian

Damien Roche: You have heard stories about him before. This charismatic but ruthless treasure hunter / esoteric researcher is a well-dressed man in his 50s with cold, calculating eyes.

Please tell me your next command.
>talk to damian

Roche regards you with a cold, appraising smile.

"Well, Travers. I think you made a big, big mistake coming here today and interfering with my plans."

Please tell me your next command.
>ask damian about moreau

Damien Roche: "Moreau? Brilliant man, but far too naive. He thought he could uncover the secret and share it. I tried to warn him. Some knowledge isn’t meant for everyone. He wanted to understand the Alignment. I want to control it."

Please enter your instructions.
>askdamian about alignment

Not really knowing exactly what you mean, I will delay doing that.

Tell me what to do next please.
>ask damian about alignment

Damien Roche: "What are you waffling on about?"

OK, now what?
>ask damian about sauniere

Damien Roche: "Nothing to do with me."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>ask damian about cathars

Damien Roche: "Nothing to do with me."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask damien about treausre

Damien Roche: "What are you waffling on about?"

What now?
>ask damien about control

Damien Roche: "What are you waffling on about?"

I'm waiting for your commands.
>* not much of a conversationalist, huh

Of course!  Whatever that means. Might make sense to you but doesn't to me!

Please enter your instructions.
>l

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
You discern:  a pocket watch and some modern research papers.
Damien Roche is standing here.

OK, now what?
>x watch

Watch: An elegant gold pocket watch. It's inscribed with a name: "Moreau". Inside is a tiny folded message.

Please enter your instructions.
>take it

You now have the watch.

Tell me what to do next please.
>x message

There isn't one of those here.

What now?
>take message from watch

You carefully take out and unroll the message that is hidden inside the watch.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x message

You carefully unroll the tiny piece of paper that was hidden inside the watch.

"Kim - if you find this, I have been taken. Roche is behind it. The Alignment Crystal is real. It’s not just treasure - it’s a key to something much older. 

Don’t trust anyone completely. The seven points must be aligned at the next full moon. 

I’m sorry I dragged you into this.

- Elias"

OK, now what?
>put ink on message

The special ink has no effect whatsoever on the message.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>l

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
You perceive the following:  some modern research papers.
Damien Roche is standing here.

What now?
>x papers

Papers: Dr. Moreau’s scattered handwritten notes full of anxious question marks.

Please enter your instructions.
>take papers

You now have the papers.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>read papers

Moreau’s papers are chaotic, written in a mix of French and English with many underlined phrases and question marks.

"The alignments are real. Cardou, the old hill, the ancient circle - they form a perfect pattern. Saunière knew. But what did he actually find? 

I fear I am not the only one looking. They are closing in."

What now?
>put ink on papers

You carefully dab a small amount of the special ink onto the Moreau's scattered research notes.

Hidden annotations appear between the lines:

"The Crystal reacts to the alignments.  
One convergence chamber.  
I fear I am not the only one who has found this. Roche is dangerous."

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>push damien

That's not a very polite thing to do. I won't push Damien Roche.

OK, now what?
>l

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
Damien Roche is standing here.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x pit

You shine your flashlight into the pit. Deep and dark. Nothing can be seen.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>push damien into put

Sorry, but you can't push the damien into the put.

You would really need to know what or where the put is first!

What now?
>push damien into pit

I don't think you can push Damien Roche using the pit.

Let's forget about that strand of thought for the time being.

Please enter your instructions.
>* alas

Not really knowing exactly what you mean, I will delay doing that.

Tell me what to do next please.
>l

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
Damien Roche is standing here.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x equipment

Equipment: That's probably just background scenery and doesn't hold any special importance to you.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>n

Damien Roche quickly moves to prevent you from moving northwards.  Roche smiles coldly, though there’s tension in his eyes.

"Enough, Travers. You’ve poked around long enough. Dr. Moreau is no longer your concern, and the Alignment Chamber is certainly not for amateurs like you. 

Turn back now. Walk away, and I’ll let you leave this valley in one piece. Continue… and I promise you’ll regret it."

Tell me what to do next please.
>e

You begin moving east.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A natural cavern deep underground. Ancient markings on the walls correspond to surface landmarks.
Exits lead: south and west.
You discern:  a carved stone tile.

What now?
>take tile

You now have the tile.

What now?
>push title

I don't think I can push the title.

I'm not sure what it is or where to look for the title to push.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>push tile

You can't push the tile when you have it with you.

What now?
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, Saunière’s notebook, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, a carved stone tile, a pocket watch, some gold coins, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a brittle card, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, some modern research papers, a yellowed newspaper clipping, an electrocompass, a vial, a glass shard, some faded blueprints, a silver crucifix, a letter, a flashlight, a billet, a tourist guide and a tiny message. You are wearing a cathar ring, rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch. 

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>* huh

I'm not sure what you mean when you say that.

Tell me what to do next please.
>w

You begin moving west.

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
Damien Roche is standing here.

Tell me what to do next please.
>e

You begin moving east.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A natural cavern deep underground. Ancient markings on the walls correspond to surface landmarks.
Exits lead: south and west.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>w

You begin moving west.

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
Damien Roche is standing here.

OK, now what?
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, Saunière’s notebook, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, a carved stone tile, a pocket watch, some gold coins, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a brittle card, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, some modern research papers, a yellowed newspaper clipping, an electrocompass, a vial, a glass shard, some faded blueprints, a silver crucifix, a letter, a flashlight, a billet, a tourist guide and a tiny message. You are wearing a cathar ring, rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch. 

OK, now what?
>hit damien with stick

You can't do it. You have no reason to hit Damien Roche with the stick or anything else for that matter.

OK, now what?
>n

Roche: "Stop right there, Travers. I've told you once. You’re not going any further. Moreau is no longer your concern, and the Alignment Chamber is mine. Turn around and leave while you still can."

Please enter your instructions.
>show photo to damien

Damien Roche: "I'm not interested in ANYTHING you want to show to me, Travers. I just want you out of my way. I'm not sharing this with amateurs like you or Moreau. Do you really think I'm going to let you casually come down here and take over my operation? No way. You'd better heed my warning.

What now?
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, Saunière’s notebook, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, a carved stone tile, a pocket watch, some gold coins, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a brittle card, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, some modern research papers, a yellowed newspaper clipping, an electrocompass, a vial, a glass shard, some faded blueprints, a silver crucifix, a letter, a flashlight, a billet, a tourist guide and a tiny message. You are wearing a cathar ring, rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch. 

What now?
>cut damien with shord

I don't know what or where the shord is. You can't cut the damien with it.

Tell me what to do next please.
>cut damien with shard

You can't cut Damien Roche using the shard. That is impossible.

Tell me what to do next please.
>l

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.
Damien Roche is standing here.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>talk to damien

Roche regards you with a cold, appraising smile.

"Well, Travers. I think you made a big, big mistake coming here today and interfering with my plans."

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>score

Your score is 105 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.
You have taken 658 turns.

Please enter your instructions.
>n

Roche’s expression hardens. He pulls out a small pistol and points it at you.

"I warned you." He advances aggressively.

In the struggle, you manage to dodge his lunge. Roche loses his balance on the slippery edge of the pit. For a split second his eyes widen in shock as he teeters on the brink.

He reaches out desperately - but you don’t take his hand.

With a terrified scream, Damien Roche plummets into the bottomless darkness. His cry echoes for a long time before fading into silence.

You stand at the edge of the pit, breathing heavily. The cave feels suddenly much quieter.

You didn’t push him… but you also didn’t save him.

A part of you feels uneasy, but another part knows that Roche would not have shown you the same mercy.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>* oh there we go

You sure you know what you're talking about?

Please enter your instructions.
>l

A makeshift camp hidden in a side cavern. Camping equipment suggest someone else is searching for the same secret.
A wide, seemingly bottomless pit is in the floor and drops into absolute darkness.
Exits lead: north and east.

What now?
>n

You begin moving north.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A low, partially flooded tunnel. The water is icy cold. 
Exits lead: north and south.

Please tell me your next command.
>x water

The rubber gloves you are wearing protect you from the the freezing, icy water. You reach carefully into the water. Your fingers brush against something smooth and hard beneath the silt.

You pull out a clear crystal that pulses with faint inner light - the Alignment Crystal itself.

What was it doing lying below freezing cold water? You assume it was hidden there on purpose - maybe even by Sauniere himself?

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A low, partially flooded tunnel. The water is icy cold. 
Exits lead: north and south.

Please enter your instructions.
>* easy peasy

Not really knowing exactly what you mean, I will delay doing that.

OK, now what?
>x crystal

Crystal: A beautifully carved crystal. Instinctively you know that this is the alignment crystal that Roche and Moreau were searching for.

Tell me what to do next please.
>n

You move north.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A surprisingly large man-made, empty chamber.
Exits lead: north and south.

OK, now what?
>n

You move north.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A perfectly circular chamber where multiple energy lines (according to legend) are said to converge. A stone coffin is here.
Faint sounds of struggling can be heard from within the coffin...

The electrocompass makes a buzzing sound and reacts violently - the needle spins wildly before slamming into position. It points directly into the northern chamber.

Exits lead: north and south.

What now?
>x coffen

You're not sure what coffen is. You can only examine what you see and understand.

OK, now what?
>x coffin

An old stone coffin.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>measure

No further measuring or surveying is required now. You have found six of the seven alignments. The final seventh lies beneath!

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>open coffin

You strain against the heavy stone lid and manage to slide it partially open. Inside is Dr. Elias Moreau, bound with rope, looking exhausted but alive. His eyes widen with relief when he sees you.

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x moreau

Dr. Moreau is a 68-year-old eccentric historian and old acquaintance of yours. Passionate but nervous.
A thin, scholarly man with wild grey hair and intense eyes. He looks exhausted and frightened.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>untie moreau

You try to free him but the rope is very strong and knotted very tight. Find another way.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>cut rope with shard

Using the sharp glass shard you carefully cut through the tight ropes binding Dr. Moreau. He lets out a groan of relief as the bindings fall away. You help him stand up out of the coffin.

Moreau sits weakly on the coffin, rubbing his wrists. His voice is hoarse:

"Kim... thank God. Roche... he betrayed me. He’s been working against us the whole time. You must be careful - the crystal is far more dangerous than I realised."

***Your score just went up by 5 points.

Please tell me your next command.
>talk to moreau

Dr Moreau: "That bastard played me for a fool. He wants the power of the Alignment for himself. He doesn’t understand what it really is."

"It’s not just a key… it’s a bridge. Saunière used it. I was so close to understanding. You must finish this, Kim. I’m too weak to go on."

His face pales. "The statue in the church… it was never just decoration. It was a warning. If the portal opens fully, the Guardian may come through. You’ll need more than courage to face it."

"Complete the alignment. Activate the crystal. But whatever you do… don’t let Roche take it. And Kim… if you see the portal… be very careful what you choose."

Moreau shakes his head weakly. "No time to ask more questions now.  I’d only slow you down. Go. Finish what we started. I’ll find my own way out and go to Isabelle. Trust your instincts - you’ve always been better at this than me."

Moreau exits rather hastily.

Please tell me your next command.
>save

Game position saved.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>l

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A perfectly circular chamber where multiple energy lines (according to legend) are said to converge. A stone coffin is here.
Exits lead: north and south.

OK, now what?
>n

You go north.

You are in a vast, underground chamber deep beneath the hills. The north wall has a thin aperture or slot built into it.
Exits lead: south only.
The mysterious stranger steps out from the shadows. For the first time, he removes his hat and lowers the shadow from his face.

He is older than you expected - perhaps in his late sixties - with sharp, intelligent eyes and an air of quiet authority. His face is still partially hidden, but his voice is calm and cultured.

"You have done well to come this far, Kim Travers," he says, his voice calm and measured. I think it is time you knew who I am."

He pauses, studying your reaction.

"I am called Antoine de Montfort - Grand Master of the modern Priory of Sion. We are the custodians. The watchers. The keepers of the true line that stretches back through the centuries."

"Saunière was but one man who touched the edge of this secret. We have been watching over it for a very long time. Sometimes guiding… sometimes protecting… sometimes warning those who come too close."

His eyes meet yours with solemn intensity.

"You’ve come far, Kim Travers. Further than most. But some doors should remain closed. You carry the light within you, whether you realise it or not. That is why I have followed your every step."

He gives a faint, weary smile.

"Now the choice is yours. Will you become another guardian… or will you attempt what even Saunière ultimately feared to do?
Turn back now, while you still can."

What now?
>l

You are in a vast, underground chamber deep beneath the hills. The north wall has a thin aperture or slot built into it.
Exits lead: south only.
Antoine de Montfort stands by the north wall.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x aperture

Aperture: It's a thin, rectangular slit in the wall about two inches wide. You shine your flashlight at it, but you can't make out anything inside the aperture.

What now?
>save

Game position saved.

What now?
>x antoine

Antoine de Montfort:  Grand Master of the modern Priory of Sion. In his late sixties - with sharp, intelligent eyes and an air of quiet authority. His face is still partially hidden.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>talk to antoine

He gives a faint, cold smile. "I am someone who understands what is at stake. The Alignment Crystal is not a toy. It was never meant for this age. Walk away, and live. Continue… and you may wish you hadn’t."

Please enter your instructions.
>show crystal to antoine

Antoine: "Indeed that is the alignment crystal. When placed on it's original altar it will activate...

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask antoine about damien

Antoine: "Roche is a fool driven by greed. He believes he can control the Crystal. He cannot. He is merely a distraction - dangerous, but ultimately insignificant."

What now?
>ask antoine about crystal

Antoine: "The Crystal is not a treasure. It is a key to something far older than Saunière, older than the Cathars, older than the Templars. It was never meant for human hands. If you activate it, you may awaken forces you cannot control."

Tell me what to do next please.
>ask antoine about guardian

Antoine remains silent upon hearing your question.

Tell me what to do next please.
>ask antoine about moreau

Antoine: "Dr. Moreau got too close. He refused to listen to reason. Whether he is still alive depends on how cooperative he becomes. I suggest you do not make the same mistake."

OK, now what?
>ask antoine about priory

Antoine de Montfort gives a small, knowing smile, as though he has been expecting this question.

"The Priory of Sion... yes, that old name still carries power, doesn’t it?

The Priory of Sion is real, though not in the way most people imagine. We are the watchers. The keepers of the line. We ensure that the Alignment and its power are not misused by those who seek only wealth or domination.

We are the modern continuation of an ancient duty. Not the colourful fantasy version peddled in books and films, but something quieter and far older. We are custodians. Protectors of the bloodline of knowledge - not necessarily of blood, but of light.

We have watched over the secret for centuries. Sometimes as scholars, sometimes as guardians, occasionally as manipulators when necessary. Saunière was one of our more... unpredictable associates. He opened doors he should not have, and paid the price for it."

He looks directly at you.

"And now here you stand - another soul drawn to the Axis. The question is whether you will become another guardian… or another warning."

Please tell me your next command.
>ask antoine about light

Antoine remains silent upon hearing your question.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>ask antoine about bloodline

A faint, knowing smile crosses his face.

"Ah, the famous 'bloodline'. The one so many obsess over. The truth is both simpler and more profound than the fairy tales.

It has never been solely about physical descent. The true bloodline is the unbroken chain of those who carry the light of understanding - those capable of wielding the Crystal without being consumed by it. 

Saunière had a spark of it. You, Kim Travers… you have more than a spark."

Please enter your instructions.
>save

Game position saved.

Tell me what to do next please.
>s

You begin moving south.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

A perfectly circular chamber where multiple energy lines (according to legend) are said to converge. A stone coffin is here.
Exits lead: north and south.

What now?
>n

You begin moving north.

You are in a vast, underground chamber deep beneath the hills. The north wall has a thin aperture or slot built into it.
Exits lead: south only.
Antoine de Montfort stands by the north wall.

Please enter your instructions.
>put tile in aperture

You insert the carved tile into the thin aperture. Suddenly there is a loud mechanical grinding noise. A section of the wall shakes violently before rising up revealing a passageway to the north.
You are in a vast, underground chamber deep beneath the hills.
Exits lead: north and south.
Antoine de Montfort stands by the north wall.

What now?
>n

The mysterious stranger steps back into the shadows and slowly fades from view, his final words echoing in the chamber:

"Choose wisely, Kim Travers. Some lights were never meant to be awakened."

The way north is now clear.

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

You are in a vast, circular chamber carved deep within the limestone. In the centre stands a large stone altar. There is nothing on the altar. This place feels like the true heart of the Rennes mystery.
Exits lead: south only.

Please enter your instructions.
>x altar

A massive, perfectly smooth altar. It is clearly designed to hold something special.

What now?
>measure

No further measuring or surveying is required now. You have found six of the seven alignments. The final seventh lies beneath!

OK, now what?
>put crystal on altar

You carefully place the Alignment Crystal on to the centre of the ancient altar stone.

For a long, breathless moment, silence fills the chamber.

Then the Crystal begins to pulse with a pure, living light. The seven points of alignment across the valley resonate in perfect harmony. The black marble walls shimmer as though they have become liquid starlight.

The Crystal rises slowly into the air, spinning faster and faster. A vertical rift of shimmering silver and gold light tears open before you - not a doorway of metal and science, but a living veil between worlds.

Through the radiant portal you glimpse breathtaking visions:

A sunlit temple where robed figures walk among living light…  
A vast library floating in a realm of pure thought…  
And for the briefest instant, you see Bérenger Saunière himself  - younger, awestruck, stepping through with a heavy bag and an expression of both wonder and terror.

The Stranger’s final words echo softly in your mind:

“He went through… and he brought back more than gold.”
The light begins to stabilise. The portal pulses gently, as if inviting you.

Then something dark and terrible pushes through.

A massive, grotesque figure emerges - a towering demonic entity with charred skin, curved horns, and hypnotic glowing red eyes. It is horrifyingly familiar... it is the living embodiment of the devil statue from the church.

The creature locks its burning gaze upon you. You feel your will slipping away as its red eyes bore into your soul, paralysing you where you stand.

OK, now what?
>x devil

This is no statue. This is the living embodiment of the devil that has stood in the church all these years - Asmodeus. 
It stares at you with ancient, knowing hatred, as though it has been waiting for this exact moment for over a century. You can feel its gaze trying to worm its way into your mind, searching for weakness.

Tell me what to do next please.
>throw vial at devil

You hurl the vial of holy water at the demon. It shatters across its chest. The creature screams in agony as white smoke rises from its burning flesh.
That seemed to weaken the creature a bit... Good move!

Please enter your instructions.
>push it

I really think it's not important for you to push the devil.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>hit devil with stick

The creature lets out a low, rumbling laugh that echoes through the chamber.

"You are not the first to stand before me..."

A wave of overwhelming terror and despair washes over you. Visions flash through your mind - Saunière’s haunted face, endless tunnels of darkness, and ancient bargains made in blood and gold.

The creature grins, revealing rows of jagged teeth.

"You bring toys against a guardian of the threshold. Pathetic."

OK, now what?
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, Saunière’s notebook, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, a pocket watch, some gold coins, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a brittle card, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, some modern research papers, a yellowed newspaper clipping, an electrocompass, a glass shard, some faded blueprints, a silver crucifix, a letter, a flashlight, a billet, a tourist guide and a tiny message. You are wearing a cathar ring, rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch. 

I'm waiting for your commands.
>show crucifix to devil

You hold the silver crucifix high and wave it at the monstrosity before throwing it at the creature. The demon hisses and shrinks back from the touch of the holy symbol.
That seemed to weaken the creature a bit... Good move!

I'm waiting for your commands.
>pray

Pray? You pray that you will do the right things and ask for protection. That is all you can hope for.

Please enter your instructions.
>take crystal

The horrific creature won't let you get anywhere near the altar...

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>attack creature with stick

The creature lets out a low, rumbling laugh that echoes through the chamber.

"You are not the first to stand before me..."

A wave of overwhelming terror and despair washes over you. Visions flash through your mind - Saunière’s haunted face, endless tunnels of darkness, and ancient bargains made in blood and gold.

The creature grins, revealing rows of jagged teeth.

"You bring toys against a guardian of the threshold. Pathetic."

I'm waiting for your commands.
>l

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

You are in a vast, circular chamber carved deep within the limestone. In the centre stands a large stone altar. The Alignment Crystal now floats above a simple stone altar, radiating pure white light. You feel as though you are standing at the centre of something ancient and immense.

A grotesque, hideous demon is here, blocking the exit south.
Exits lead: south only.

You pause, contemplating your next action...
>x demon

This is no statue. This is the living embodiment of the devil that has stood in the church all these years - Asmodeus. 
It stares at you with ancient, knowing hatred, as though it has been waiting for this exact moment for over a century. You can feel its gaze trying to worm its way into your mind, searching for weakness.

Please enter your instructions.
>attack crystal with stick

You can't see the crystal here so you can't attack the crystal with the stick.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>x crystal

There isn't one of those here.

Please tell me your next command.
>take crystal from altar

No chance you can take the crystal from the altar. Please think of something else.

What now?
>s

The demon is blocking that exit!
You try desperately to resist, but the demon’s hypnotic red eyes burn into your soul. Your body refuses to move. 

The creature lets out a low, rumbling laugh that echoes through the chamber.
"You are not the first to stand before me..."

A wave of overwhelming terror and despair washes over you. Visions flash through your mind - Saunière’s haunted face, endless tunnels of darkness, and ancient bargains made in blood and gold.

You feel something cold and ancient enter your mind... and take root.

The last thing you see is the demon stepping fully into this world, its grotesque form growing larger as the portal widens.

**You have failed.**
The Alignment Crystal shatters. The portal collapses, but it is too late.
The Guardian of the Threshold has crossed over.

Kim Travers was never seen again. Some say a new stranger now walks the hills of Rennes-le-Château - quiet, distant, with eyes that sometimes glow faintly red in the dark.

The Work continues… but not for you.
You have become part of the mystery.

** Game Over **
Your score is 125 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.

Would you like to (Q)uit, (R)estart, (L)oad a saved game or (U)ndo?

Turn undone. (You can't use multiple undo's!)

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

You are in a vast, circular chamber carved deep within the limestone. In the centre stands a large stone altar. The Alignment Crystal now floats above a simple stone altar, radiating pure white light. You feel as though you are standing at the centre of something ancient and immense.

A grotesque, hideous demon is here, blocking the exit south.
Exits lead: south only.

Tell me what to do next please.
>i

You are carrying:  a coded parchment, a note, Saunière’s notebook, a vellum fragment, a topographic map, a miniature Mary Magdalene, a strange iron key, a lodestone, a silver mirror, a bottle of revealing ink, a spade, a walking stick, a theodolite, a diary, a pocket watch, some gold coins, an ancient coin, a faded photograph, a brittle card, a faded bank receipt, a Cathar scroll, some modern research papers, a yellowed newspaper clipping, an electrocompass, a glass shard, some faded blueprints, a letter, a flashlight, a billet, a tourist guide and a tiny message. You are wearing a cathar ring, rubber gloves and an ancient leather pouch. 
You try desperately to resist, but the demon’s hypnotic red eyes burn into your soul. Your body refuses to move. 

The creature lets out a low, rumbling laugh that echoes through the chamber.
"You are not the first to stand before me..."

A wave of overwhelming terror and despair washes over you. Visions flash through your mind - Saunière’s haunted face, endless tunnels of darkness, and ancient bargains made in blood and gold.

You feel something cold and ancient enter your mind... and take root.

The last thing you see is the demon stepping fully into this world, its grotesque form growing larger as the portal widens.

**You have failed.**
The Alignment Crystal shatters. The portal collapses, but it is too late.
The Guardian of the Threshold has crossed over.

Kim Travers was never seen again. Some say a new stranger now walks the hills of Rennes-le-Château - quiet, distant, with eyes that sometimes glow faintly red in the dark.

The Work continues… but not for you.
You have become part of the mystery.

** Game Over **
Your score is 125 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.

Would you like to (Q)uit, (R)estart, (L)oad a saved game or (U)ndo?

Turn undone. (You can't use multiple undo's!)

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

You are in a vast, circular chamber carved deep within the limestone. In the centre stands a large stone altar. The Alignment Crystal now floats above a simple stone altar, radiating pure white light. You feel as though you are standing at the centre of something ancient and immense.

A grotesque, hideous demon is here, blocking the exit south.
Exits lead: south only.

Please tell me your next command.
>break crystal

The horrific creature won't let you get anywhere near the altar...
You try desperately to resist, but the demon’s hypnotic red eyes burn into your soul. Your body refuses to move. 

The creature lets out a low, rumbling laugh that echoes through the chamber.
"You are not the first to stand before me..."

A wave of overwhelming terror and despair washes over you. Visions flash through your mind - Saunière’s haunted face, endless tunnels of darkness, and ancient bargains made in blood and gold.

You feel something cold and ancient enter your mind... and take root.

The last thing you see is the demon stepping fully into this world, its grotesque form growing larger as the portal widens.

**You have failed.**
The Alignment Crystal shatters. The portal collapses, but it is too late.
The Guardian of the Threshold has crossed over.

Kim Travers was never seen again. Some say a new stranger now walks the hills of Rennes-le-Château - quiet, distant, with eyes that sometimes glow faintly red in the dark.

The Work continues… but not for you.
You have become part of the mystery.

** Game Over **
Your score is 125 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.

Would you like to (Q)uit, (R)estart, (L)oad a saved game or (U)ndo?

Turn undone. (You can't use multiple undo's!)

The beam of your flashlight cuts through the darkness, revealing...

You are in a vast, circular chamber carved deep within the limestone. In the centre stands a large stone altar. The Alignment Crystal now floats above a simple stone altar, radiating pure white light. You feel as though you are standing at the centre of something ancient and immense.

A grotesque, hideous demon is here, blocking the exit south.
Exits lead: south only.

I'm waiting for your commands.
>show mirror to demon

You raise the silver mirror and angle it toward the creature. Its own hypnotic red gaze is reflected back at itself. The demon recoils with a deafening roar. That seemed to weaken the creature a bit... Good move!
With a final, earth-shaking howl, the demon is forced back through the portal by your three-pronged assault. The rift seals shut with a sound like thunder.

You collapse to your knees, exhausted but alive.

In that moment of clarity, you finally understand why Saunière placed the devil statue in the church.

It was never mere provocation.

It was a warning.
You feel an overwhelming sense of understanding wash over you. The true treasure of Rennes was never material wealth. It was the Key - the Alignment Crystal - a sacred bridge between this world and higher planes of existence. Saunière used it sparingly, bringing back knowledge and riches, but at a great personal cost.

You now stand at the threshold. What will you choose?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
After a long moment of contemplation, you step back from the portal
The Crystal slowly descends back onto the altar, its light dimming to a soft, steady glow.
The rift closes with a sound like distant singing.

You begin to understand now.

Saunière didn’t just get rich. He discovered that the Alignment Crystal is a Key to the Axis - a natural convergence point that allows passage to other realms of existence (other times, parallel realities, or higher planes of consciousness).

He used it sparingly - once to gain forbidden knowledge, and once to bring back enough gold and artefacts to fund his building projects and support the village. But each journey aged him and haunted him spiritually. That’s why he became paranoid and eventually stopped.

The Alignment Crystal is not a tool for conquest or riches. It is a key to awakening - a bridge to higher understanding.
Saunière crossed the threshold and returned changed forever.

You have chosen a different path.
You have solved the greatest mystery of Rennes-le-Château.
As you turn to leave, a single thought lingers in your mind, clear as a bell:  “The Work is never truly finished…”

** You have completed "The Priest and the Rennes Alignment." **
You are an Illuminated Seeker of the Hidden Light.
Thank you for playing.
Your score is 150 out of a maximum 150 adventure points.

Would you like to (Q)uit, (R)estart, (L)oad a saved game or (U)ndo?