darchy

DIALOGUES

The Architect

Character profile:

This very strange man had only one passion: building. As far as one can remember, he was always seen working on one project or another. He didn't care to build your usual everyday residence, even though he had been known to do so from time to time for the very rare people that could somewhat call themselves his "friend". He didn't socialize much. He had a very strange sense of humor that made a lot of people quite uneasy. But maybe it was more because of the slightly crazed look in his eyes that seemed to glisten especially when his mind was hard a work on some new design. He would walk around mumbling to himself and scribbling frantically on a piece of parchment. But whatever the task you gave him, however difficult or impossible it may seemed, he always got the work done, generally beyond expectations and always on time. Most people disliked him. Not because he was mean in any way, but because of his obsession with his work. He seemed to live in his own little world. He didn't care who he was going to work for nor what the purpose of his work was. All that mattered was the work itself. Many felt that some of the projects he worked on were evil. To him, they were simply his work. What purposed they served afterwards were of no concern to him. Over the years, his employers became more and more questionnable and of ill repute. But only he could and, in many case, would consent to build what they had in mind. These very people of questionable morals would be the instigator of his demise. For daring to attempt to reveal the secrets of his Tomb, the Keeper fo the Seven Deaths sent his minions to destroy his body and entrapped his soul in eternal darkness and torment.

Dialogue

[As soon as they successfully complete the pattern, start your timer. As soon as 5 minutes have elapsed, bid them farewell, and go in peace mode, you may not leave the bounds of the teleporter so they will need to use spirit speak to communicate with you]

Travellers, why have you summoned me? Speak quickly for the sand in the hourglass will soon be spent. Five minutes in your earthbound world, an eternity in mine. What do you seek in this unholy place? [let them tell you about the Fortress]

Ah! The fortress. Too well I remember it. I built a work of art for them, and they sent me to my doom. I am bound by the curse. I may not reveal its location unless you can properly answer a riddle. Think quickly for time is of the essence. Answer correctly, I shall reveal it's location to you and answer what question you may have for which I know the answer. When your allotted time has been spent I will return to my prison. You must summon me again, should you wish to talk further. Here is your riddle.

The fall of night, and hooded eyes
Birth evils seen by troubled minds
Strength of legend, wreathed in flame
A silver tongue a friend may gain

[ask the riddle. If they have not answered when the five minute timer you started when they completed the pattern is up, say:] Your time is up, Travellers. I must now depart. Fare thee well.

[If they answered correctly, say:]

Your answer is correct. The fortress you seek lies in a small clearing on the outskirts of the City of Trinsic. It's coordinates are: 130o 9'S 36o 4'E. Be forewarned; it is the lair of murderers and assassins. They will not welcome you with open arms, but rather with sharp blades, lethal arrows, deadly poison, and evil spells. Be prepared for a fierce battle, that you will more than likely lose. Their number is impressive, and their skills unparalleled.

What you seek is at the highest level of the fortress. If you succeed to make it to the roof, you will be safe. Do not attempt to harm the Oracle, or punishment on you will be swift and fatal. She will not harm you nor will the assassins follow you there. Follow her instructions carefully, and think twice before you make any decision. I will not bid you safe journey, for I know where you are going will be all but safe. But may the Virtue shed a kind light on you.

[IF and only IF they ask about the layout of the fortress, say:]

The ground floor is a narrow path. Do not tally there and make your way quickly to the teleporter or you will meet your death sooner than you care to. The leader of your group should move switfly that the others behind do not get trapped. The 2nd floor is a maze. Beware of the murder hole in the ceiling. You may have a hard time seeing them, but your foes will clearly see you and will take advantage of it to harm you. A good archer or mage could however retaliate to their attack. Clear the maze quickly. All I can say is that greed, power, pain and death are but of few of the obstacles on the path to enlightenment. On the third floor, you can either choose to melee those who will more than likely be awaiting you or dash for the teleporter to the roof. Once on the roof, the only harm that may come your way, will be due to your failure to answer properly the riddle that shall be asked of you.