Working Ogre-Time

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**1**]] The ruins of Hal Varrow are carved deep into the mountainside, its broken spires like teeth jutting towards the darkening sky. Whispers tell of fabulous treasures hidden in the labyrinthine passages below the old fortress, guarded by terrible beasts and deadly traps. Only the quickest, most-skilled, and daring adventurers have what it takes to survive a delve beneath. You are not one of those adventurers. You're Hog, an ogre, and you're bored out of your skull with cleaning traps. You're supposed to break things! It's a waste of your talents to be scraping viscera off the rolling boulder or prying half an elf out of the scything crawlspace. You'd much rather be pummeling knights than pulling them off spikes. "Hey Hog, lookit this," comes a wheedling little voice. You look. Timic the goblin is pointing at a crumpled adventurer with an improbably large sword next to him. The sight of the goblin makes your stomach growl, but Timic's wearing a necklace of onions which are, naturally, poisonous. You wouldn't dare eat somebody wearing all those onions. You'd die. "That’s an oversized sword if I ever saw one. I'm marking it off," he says, pulling out a folded piece of parchment and a quill. He makes a careful X over one of the squares. "Sword look like made for Hog," you chuckle. "Hey, yeah!" Timic says, grinning. "You should use it!" You consider your fists for a moment. You've never had trouble pummeling anything before, but a lot of adventurers seem to like swords. Maybe there's something to it? Then again, you've *eaten* a lot of those adventurers. (text-color: #547278)[~~Ask Timic about what he’s marking off? Turn to ?~~] Take the sword? Turn to [[21]]. Leave it alone? Turn to [[55]].

{ (set: $hp to it - 2) (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**21**]] The sword looks awfully neat sitting on the dungeon floor. You lean down and close your fingers around the shiny steel, then yelp in pain as the sharp edge draws blood! The sword falls to the ground with a noisy clatter, where it receives a stern glare. Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] and gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**]. "Lookit, Hog. There's a handle to grab!" Timic points. You pout. The stupid sword made your fingers hurt. "Hog don't want it anymore." Timic lets it go with a shrug. He looks at his parchment. "Okay, let's keep going. Need a few more squares before I hand this in to Gramandris. Find any adventurers with more than twenty knives? Or wearing inappropriate armor?" You suck on your fingers and shake your head. "You wanna pick where we go next, big guy?" You nod sullenly. To the Eternal Crypt? Turn to [[40]]. To the Black Garden? Turn to [[12]].

{ (set: $broken to true) (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**55**]] You like using your hands. There's something very satisfying about how a skull crunches against your palm. Also, how are you supposed to grab somebody with a sword? You leave it lying on the ground. "Maybe I'll try it," Timic says, tucking his folded parchment away. He squares up to sword, wraps his spindly fingers around the hilt, then grunts with effort as the blade rises a few feet into the air. The tip of the sword begins to sway precariously as the overbalanced goblin careens about. "Lookit me! I'm an adventurer!" the goblin crows. He staggers to the side and the sword's blade slams into the ankles of a large statue. With a yelp, Timic drops the sword. There's a pause as a crack spreads through the statue, then a ponderous groan as it begins to lean. "Oh no," Timic says. "Hog, catch it!" You don't want to catch the statue. You want to hear the noise it makes. As it topples, you grin and clap your hands. It strikes the opposite wall with a tremendous crash that reverberates most pleasingly throughout the chamber. Timic hides behind you as the dust settles to reveal a hole in the dungeon wall, and the darkness of some caves beyond. A stupid grin is plastered on your face. "Timic no 'venturer, Timic ogre," you tell him with a chortle. "Hah, yeah," the goblin says. "Let's go somewhere else. Quick." *Mark ''BROKEN'' on your sheet.* (text-color: #547278)[~~See if you can block the hole? Turn to ?~~] To the Eternal Crypt? Turn to [[40]]. To the Black Garden? Turn to [[12]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**12**]] There's always wind rustling through the dungeon's upper levels. The stonework is weathered and mossy, and shattered ceilings expose great stretches of the ruined fortress to the elements. It's here that you find the Black Garden, a tangled knot of voracious plants in what must once have been the main courtyard. "Flora? It's just us coming to clean up," Timic calls from the entrance. You aren't sure why he's stopping, there's just plants in there. You walk right in. "The garden is forbidden to you," comes an eerie female voice from deeper in the glade, but you're already tromping through the Hallowed Brambles. Flora sometimes pretends to get mad at you. It's a fun game. You can usually find Flora at the enormous tree in the courtyard's center, but her carnivorous plants and strangling vines always have a bounty of adventurers to collect. You're not *supposed* to take adventurers from the carnivorous plants, but you're hungry. Go say hello to Flora? Turn to [[56]]. Take some adventurer corpses? [[81]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**40**]] The Eternal Crypt, now, is less of a proper crypt, but rather a labyrinth full of monsters and traps. As an ogre, the finer points of dungeon nomenclature are lost on you. All you know is there are usually lots of corpses in the crypt, and plenty of cleaning to do. The stairway descends to the Scything Hall, a vaulted chamber with two lines of pillars down the middle. Each one is carved as a sword-wielding warrior, and the bloody remains of three or four adventurers are a testament to the trap’s scythe-work. “Lookit, Hog! A whole party!” Timic scurries forward to begin picking through the gore. “Gonna fill the card for sure.” You feel your stomach rumble. You briefly eye Timic, but the clever goblin is already shoving a chunk of meat in your direction. “Eat up, big guy. We need to clean this up.” You shove the chunk in your mouth. It tastes like elf, you think. As you chew, you look around the chamber. At the far end an archway opens into the Flattening Terrace, where Stompy the golem lives. You also notice a streak of blood leading off towards a hole in the wall. It looks like Bitey the giant centipede dragged off the best corpse for a meal. Say hello to Bitey? Turn to [[98]]. Look at the Flattening Terrace? Turn to [[135]]. Help Timic? Turn to [[121]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**98**]] You follow the smear of blood to the hole in the wall where you hear the faint sound of crunching. You get down on hands and knees to look into the hole, where you see Bitey devouring the body of an unlucky dwarf. You grin, and reach in to give Bitey a pet. With an angry chitter the giant centipede lashes out at your sausage-like fingers, which you jerk back just in time with a chuckle. Bitey loves to play games. (text-color: #547278)[~~Leave Bitey Alone? Turn to ?~~] Scratch Bitey behind the bitey things? Turn to [[112]]. Take the dwarf from Bitey and see if it's on Timic's card? Turn to [[104]].

{ (set: $hp to it - 4) (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?hp) (rerun:?pluck) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**112**]] You reach out again and Bitey lets the dwarf go, skittering forward with a dangerous motion. You chuckle at the playful giant centipede and begin to wrestle with it. Bitey lives up to its name, however, and you leave the encounter with a few deep mandible bites. Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**4 HEALTH**], gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**]. Chuckling, you watch Bitey scurry back into his hole as you rub your wounds. You move back towards Timic to help with the adventurer bits. "Lookit, Hog. This one had ten healing potions in his pack," Timic says with a laugh. "He must have been saving them." "No help him now," you laugh. Timic grins. "Nope." You finish cleaning things up before you move on. (text-color: #547278)[~~Collect the healing potions and take them with you? Turn to ?~~] Visit the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[29]]. Or are you bored with cleaning traps? Turn to [[100]].

{ (set: _loot to $r_dwarf's random) (display: "loot") (rerun:?stats) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**104**]] You reach out to take the dwarf and Bitey moves to attack! You know Bitey likes to play hard, so you prepare to wrestle. Make a **SKILL CHECK** at **DIFFICULTY 7**. If you fail, lose Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] as Bitey lives up to his name. You're a stubborn ogre - you must keep making attempts until you get the dwarf or die trying. (display: "skillroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "You wrestle... ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (if: $finalresult < 7)[ (print: "Bitey's mandibles pierce your hand for **2 damage**!") (set: $hp to it - 2) (rerun:?hp)] (else:)[ (if: $crit is true)[ (set: $skillcritcount to it + 1) (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) You gain (text-color:#ada06c)[1 PLUCK] for a crit on a skill check. ] Eventually, you have a mostly-eaten dwarf adventurer to bring back to Timic. As you return, you find Timic poking through the adventurer bits in the middle of the pillar room. "Need dwarf?" you ask, holding up the gruesome trophy. Timic looks. "Not really, but thanks anyway," the goblin says. He points to a different corpse. "This one had ten healing potions in his pack," Timic says with a laugh. "He must have been saving them." You tuck the dwarf away for later, adding **one portion of DWARF** to your rations. (text-color: #547278)[~~Collect the healing potions and take them with you? Turn to ?~~] Look at the Flattening Terrace? Turn to [[135]] Visit the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[29]] Or are you bored with cleaning traps? Turn to [[100]]. ]]] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**100**]] You're climbing the crumbling stairs towards the upper levels when you hear approaching footfalls. As you step around the huge valkyrie statue you glimpse a goblin scurrying towards you. "Timic! Flooded Sanctum's not flooded anymore!" she calls. Timic looks startled. "What? Since when?" "I 'unno," she says, glancing nervously at you. "Maybe you an' Hog should go look." You wave at the goblin. She’s right to be nervous; you’ve eaten more than your fair share of goblins. An ogre’s diet tends to be whatever they can stuff into their mouth. Unless they’re wearing a necklace of poisonous onions. “Maybe we should,” Timic says, nodding. “Wanna come with, Linny?” “No. I’m going up,” she says hurriedly. “Wailer got set off.” Timic makes a face. “That means adventurers,” he says. “And more work cleaning traps.” Linny nods. "I'm going to go look." Timic looks up at you. "Wanna go look too?" Go look at adventurers? Turn to [[63]]. Check out the Un-Flooded Sanctum? Turn to [[30]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**29**]] Nestled in the heart of the dungeon, the Iron Gauntlet is where most adventurers meet their demise. The ante chamber is a long, tall room where pendulum blades are rigged to swing, spears jut out of the floor, darts fire from the walls, and huge stone hammers crush those who aren't fast or nimble enough. The chamber is usually good for a few corpses, but as you poke your head inside you don't see any. “Huh,” Timic says, folding his parchment back up. “I thought there would be someone in gold armor.” You step into the ante chamber. A stone clicks down beneath your feet, but as you turn to look for the blade it doesn’t swing. "Safety's on, big guy," Timic says, walking in beside you. You both look around the large room, then towards the huge door at the far end. "Want to check the next room?" Check the next room? Turn to [[37]]. Leave the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[4]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**56**]] You blunder through the garden towards the gnarled black oak at its center. The twisted tree's canopy is full of black leaves with an oily texture, and the dryad crouched at its base is similarly black of skin with luminous eyes that glow with menace. "Your trespass will be your end, ogre," she seethes. "Hi Flora." You wave as you approach. She's crouched over an adventurer's body, weaving vines into the corpse. "You are as persistent as you are stupid," she says in a voice that's deceptively mild. "Flee this place and never return." You feel a faint tug at your mind but you're totally smart and can't be tricked. "What Flora doing?" The evil dryad rubs her temple in irritation. "You insipid miscreant, can't you tell when the Garden's Mistress seeks solitude? You are a fly, buzzing perilously close to a flytrap, oblivious to danger." Flora often talks in weird rhymes, but she's not very smart. You aren't a fly. You consider telling her this, but she seems to be really focusing on her dead adventurer. You don't know why she's filling him with vines. The dryad seems to consider the conversation at an end. You might continue it, or you could venture back to find where Timic has gotten to. Continue bothering Flora? Turn to [[47]]. Go find Timic? Turn to [[43]].

{ (set: _loot to "a portion of mystery adventurer") (display: "loot") (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**81**]] You move through the bushes, looking for adventurers. Timic follows warily. The goblin's eyes dart about at any rustling in the bushes while you just brute your way through the garden without any trouble. You see a pair of legs sticking out from a carnivorous plant and begin to tug on them. The plant's jaws are clamped down pretty firmly on the corpse, but your ogrish strength is pretty stubborn too. You rip the ex-adventurer in half. Add **one portion of MYSTERY ADVENTURER** to your rations. Timic is distracted by a different corpse wrapped in strangling vines. The goblin crouches down to pick up a bag in the grass, which he holds thoughtfully. "Huh. Really light. Hey Hog, can you stick your arm in here?" You do. The arm goes deep into the bag, far deeper than it should. "Hah! A bag of holding!" Timic crows, pulling the bag away. He sets it down in the grass, producing his parchment once more. "That's a square." "Hog going now," you say, turning to leave the garden. Timic scurries to catch up. (text-color: #547278)[~~Take the bag of holding with you? Turn to ?~~] Explore the Old Gatehouse? Turn to [[64]]. Walk the Wailing Steps? Turn to [[106]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**43**]] You find Timic near the entrance to the garden, poking an errant boot with a stick. He seems relieved to see you. "How's Flora?" he asks, shoving the boot off into the underbrush. "Flora busy putting vines in body, won't let Hog eat," you say with a shrug. Who can fathom strange evil dryads and their ways? "Huh," Timic says. The goblin shrugs back. "Where to next, big guy?" *You can choose any destination you haven’t already visited.* Investigate the Old Gatehouse? Turn to [[64]]. Walk the Wailing Steps? Turn to [[106]]. Head to the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[29]]. Or are you bored with cleaning traps? Turn to [[100]].

{ (set: $tangled to true) (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**47**]] "Hog eat 'venturer when Flora done?" you offer, pointing at the corpse she's working with. She stops, then rises with a sigh. Even at her full height Flora isn't an intimidating figure, but there's an eerie grace to her movements as she approaches you. "You want something to eat?" she says, her voice sickly sweet. She holds up her hand, and a little seed pod is sitting there. "Eat this." You don't hesitate. You take the seed pod and eat it. As it settles into your stomach you feel a strange sensation of something wriggling down there. Flora turns away and returns to tending her corpse. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for your ogrish actions. Without realizing it, you find yourself walking out of the garden. *The keyword TANGLED has been written on your sheet.* Go find Timic? Turn to [[43]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**THE RULES**]] You will need **two six-sided dice** (2d6) to play, and a way to keep track of keywords. You begin play with (text-color: #de8ca7)[**12 HEALTH**], (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**], and (text-color: #64a379)[**0 HUNGER**]. (text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**KEYWORDS**] Throughout the adventure you may be asked to ‘mark **KEYWORD** on your sheet’. These words are always bolded in the text, and help the story keep track of things you’ve done. When the text asks ‘Are you **KEYWORD**?’, you qualify as that if you have the keyword written on your sheet. If more than one keyword applies, pick the one that shows up first in the text. Some choices will be marked with a keyword in square brackets. If you have the keyword, you may pick that choice, though you are not forced to. (text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**COMBAT**] Enemies have a **THREAT** value. Roll **2d6** and add them together. If you **meet or exceed** their threat, you hit. If your result is **lower** than their threat, you miss, and you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**]. If you roll the same number on both dice, it’s a **crit**. If you hit, you deal damage. If you miss, you suffer the crit effect listed in the enemy’s entry. **As a powerful ogre, add +2 to your total when determining if you meet or exceed their threat.** (text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**DAMAGE**] If you hit, you deal damage equal to the **difference** between the two dice. If you roll a 6 and a 1, you deal **5 damage**. If you roll a 6 and a 5, you deal **1 damage**. Ideally, you want to roll the greatest spread of numbers while still landing a hit. When you hit and score a **crit**, your damage is the **sum of both dice**. If you rolled two fives, you deal ten damage. If you crit, but **miss**, you suffer the enemy’s crit effect. (text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**PLUCK**] After you roll your dice, you may spend (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] to re-roll a single die. **You may only re-roll each die once**. Use (text-color: #ada06c)[**PLUCK**] to avoid suffering crits from your enemies! (text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**SKILL CHECKS**] Roll **2d6**, and compare with the skill check's **DIFFICULTY**. If you **meet or exceed** the difficulty, you succeed. If your roll is **less** than the difficulty, you suffer the negative effect listed by the check. If you roll a crit and succeed on a skill check, you gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**]. (text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**RATIONS AND HUNGER**] During your adventure you’ll be given opportunities to eat rations. You regain (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each ration you consume, though you may not raise your (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] above its initial value of 12. Ogres are notorious for their appetite. If you cannot (or choose not to) eat at least one ration when prompted, you go hungry. When this happens, you increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as much (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. Different kinds of rations have no effect, and are purely for flavor. (link: "Got it.")[(goto: (history:)'s last)]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**63**]] You lope along behind Linny and Timic as the goblins ascend, chattering amongst themselves about what they might find. You pay them little mind, instead focused on exploring your nostril with a finger. Are you **CLOSED**? Turn to [[95]]. If not, turn to [[101]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**30**]] The Flooded Sanctum sits at the lowest point of the dungeon, and has been flooded for as long as you've been here. You're curious what's down there. Maybe some food? The stairs that previously descended into water are now damp but visible, covered in gray-green algae. Your eyes are good in the dark - you see the tunnel at the bottom, then the chamber it opens into. The pungent stench of mildew emanates from the wet dungeon walls. In the distance you glimpse the flicker of torchlight. There shouldn't be any torches down in the Flooded Sanctum! You begin to creep forward, with Timic behind you. Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[2]]. If not, turn to [[50]].

{ (set: $weapon to "vines") (set: $attackbonus to 0) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**2**]] You feel a sudden pain wrack your body as something winds around your bones. You collapse to the ground and bellow in pain, feeling your skin writhe and shift as plant matter begins to take over. In a few minutes, the pain subsides and you can feel again. You look down at your hands and find vines and leaves protruding from your skin, which is an unfamiliar shade of green. You rustle faintly as you move. *In combat, you no longer have a +2 bonus to your total, but instead may reduce a die by one (to a minimum of 1).* Turn to [[50]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**65**]] You prowl through the Flooded Sanctum like a hunter until you catch a glimpse of your prey. A female elf stands in the middle of the group with golden hair and a green cloak, a longbow in hand with an arrow nocked to the string. To her right is a sturdy dwarf with a braided beard, clinking chainmail, and an axe. To her left is a halfling man in black and gray with a slender sword that looks more like a toothpick than a proper blade. "Do you think Sigri would like this?" the halfling asks, holding up a glittering sapphire pendant on a silver chain. "She's more a red kind of girl," the dwarf says in a gravely voice. "Got any ruby pendants, Wist?" "I'm browsing," the halfling offers, tucking the pendant away. "Maybe I can trade it when we get back to town." "As long as you don't browse in our pockets or packs," the dwarf says. "Rurik! You wound me!" the halfling says, mock offense playing across his face. "As if I would *ever* do something like that. In fact, I am so offended that-" "Silence is a virtue," the elf says, cutting the halfling off. She fixes them both with an even look. "Sorry, Kelliri," he mumbles. You're busy watching the adventurers, but you catch sight of Timic lurking in the shadows, trying to wave for your attention. You see the goblin pointing up a large circular disc set in the ceiling. You squint; there's funny writing on the stone circle, the sort that hurts your eyes to look at. Are you down the Deep Well? You're tempted to charge into the open and fight these adventurers, but even you can tell they'd beat you in an open fight. You'll have to tilt the situation in your favor. Timic has been teaching you some goblin tactics, it might be time to use them. There are two directions you could bait these adventurers in. You can lure them towards the crypt where Bitey and Sticky live. Or you could see how they fare with the trapped gauntlet? Lure them to the Eternal Crypt? Turn to [[54]]. Bring them to the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[71]].

{ (set: $linny to false) (set: $hp to it + 1) (if: $hp > 12)[(set: $hp to 12)] (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?stats) (set: $kills to it + 1) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**74**]] You look at Linny. The goblin looks up at you with big, nervous eyes. You lick your lips. Moments later, you've taken the edge off your hunger, and Linny's learned a grim lesson in how cruel and deadly the dungeon is. Restore (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**], and gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for your ogrish actions. Timic is crouched just out of reach, watching you warily. "Full?" You consider it for a moment, then nod. "Full." "Good. We should see if we can keep up with the adventurers." (text-color: #547278)[~~Feel bad about Linny? Turn to ?~~] Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[18]]. If not, you enter the garden. Turn to [[44]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**34**]] You keep to the shadows as you move through the dungeon after the adventurers. The lady in blue pauses, glancing back over her shoulder, squinting beneath the wide brim of her hat. "I heard something," she says. "What did you hear, Vess?" The white-clad man steps up beside her, stroking his goatee. "Something's following us, I just know it." "Let it come," he says, touching a finger to his holy symbol. "The Fair Sister will watch over us and see us through." You hear a snicker from the red-haired warrior. "Hey Damiel, are you finished touching your lady?" she says with a grin. The cleric goes red. "I'll have you know the Fair Sister is a chaste goddess, Malta. You'd do well not to blaspheme. And unlike *others* of my faith, I do not treat with her evening sister." "Shame," Malta says. "The Pale Sister has all the fun in that pair." You wonder why adventurers always seem to have such banter while facing certain death? Crouched behind some rubble, you notice the passage they’re exploring leads towards the Black Garden. It would be easy to stay back and follow, waiting until they meet the carnivorous plants before you strike. The archway to the Flattening Terrace is halfway down the tunnel, however. If you rushed the adventurers, there’s a good chance they’d flee through the archway instead. (text-color: #547278)[~~Try out some banter on the adventurers? Turn to ?~~] Sneak after the adventurers? Turn to [[8]]. Rush straight at them? Turn to [[80]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**80**]] You emerge from hiding and charge the group of adventurers! Bellowing furiously, you are gratified to see the startled expressions on their faces. "I told you!" The lady in blue holds up her hand towards you and wiggle her fingers. She's thin and meek and clearly the least dangerous of the group. The man in white ducks through the archway, while the red-haired woman places herself in front of Vess, her sword drawn and ready. Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[75]]. If not, turn to [[42]].

{ (set: $weapon to "vines") (set: $attackbonus to 0) (set: $maltahp to 10) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**75**]] A sharp pain writhes through your body as something winds around your bones. You aren't held in place, not nearly so much as the blue lady was hoping. The red-haired warrior pauses, halfway to you, and raises her sword. "Why isn't it working, Vess?" she growls. "I... I don't know, Malta," the blue lady replies, flipping through a book. "It should have worked!" You take a shuddering step forward as vines begin to poke through your skin. The warrior holds her ground. "Go. I'll handle it," she says, and springs forward. Her allies look uncertain as they move towards the garden. |malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "22")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "22")]]]]] ]]] }

{ (set: $weapon to "vines") (set: $attackbonus to 0) (display: "ration_human") } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**22**]] She fights well for a human, but you're a ferocious ogre. You swat her sword aside and knock her down before you put an end to things with a heavy stomp. As the battle rage fades, you feel the vines shifting once more. You notice your skin has gone a shade of green, and there are leaves and vines poking out from everywhere. You feel quite different. *In combat, you no longer have a +2 bonus to your total, but instead may reduce a die by one (to a minimum of 1).* You scoop up Malta - add two portions of HUMAN to your rations. You [[5]]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**135**]] The Flattening Terrace is a round chamber with an alcove set in one wall and an entrance at either end. In the very center of the floor’s flagstones stands Stompy the golem, a creature of stone that’s actually taller and bigger than you are. Stompy doesn’t eat, and gives you anything he kills. “Hi Stompy,” you say, waving. “Ogre,” he says in his rumbling voice. “Do you feel it?” You scratch your head. “What?” “A dark presence,” Stompy says. “A pall that creeps up from the low places, that suffuses this dungeon with its imminent dread. That threatens, even now, to corrupt us and bend us to its vile will. Do you feel it?” You don’t answer. You stopped paying attention a while ago. It’s odd there aren’t any flattened corpses lying about, but as you look you notice a suspicious-looking chest nestled in the alcove. Sticky the Mimic, looking quite content. You think you know what happened to the corpses. You walk over to ask Sticky about it. The treasure chest creaks open, displaying its wide array of sharp teeth and it tries to grab you with its huge, sticky tongue! You give Sticky a swat with your fist, which quickly becomes stuck. The mimic tries to drag you into his mouth, but you lift Sticky into the air and slam him against the floor until he lets go. The mimic makes a noise like a bubbling groan and goes back to pretending to be a slightly shabby treasure chest. You fix him with a stern look until you’re sure he’s properly intimidated. “Ogre, you are a gifted negotiator,” Stompy rumbles. “Beware, however. You just smashed the chest into the Deep Well’s seal.” You squint. Sure enough, the recessed alcove is faintly lowered, with a circle of older stone set into the floor. A solid obsidian cap seals the Deep Well with sigils that hurt you when you look at them. And thanks to your tussle with Sticky there are cracks running through the obsidian cap. Take a closer look at the Deep Well? Turn to [[168]]. Talk more with Stompy? Turn to [[152]]. Go back and help Timic sift through the chunks? Turn to [[121]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**64**]] You head for the old gatehouse, one of the crumbling entrances to the courtyard. The doors have long since rotted away, which would make this a liability except for the Webby, the enormous spider who lives here, perched up near the ceiling with webbing stretched across the whole gatehouse. You don't like Webby much. She keeps victims wrapped up near the ceiling, and when you tried to take one last week she bit you and made you really dizzy for a while. "You sure we want to be here, Hog?" Timic asks nervously. "If you're hungry we could find you a snack." You're always hungry, but that's not why you're here. Maybe you should teach the spider a lesson. Break Webby's web? Turn to [[53]]. Leave the web alone? Turn to [[72]].

{ (set: $carefree to true) (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**53**]] You aren't about to let the spider have her stupid webs. You're an ogre, and you aren't going to stand for stupid arachnids telling you what you can and can't eat. You use your meaty fists and tear the webs apart, bit by gooey bit. The spider chitters angrily and comes down to try and stop you, but you're ready with a big meaty fist. The creature hisses and retreats back up to the ceiling while you utterly destroy the webs. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for your ogrish actions. *Mark ''CAREFREE'' on your sheet.* "You sure showed that spider," Timic says. "Let's keep moving, yeah?" *You can choose any destination you haven’t already visited.* Say hello to Flora? Turn to [[56]]. Walk the Wailing Steps? Turn to [[106]]. Head to the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[29]]. Or are you bored with cleaning traps? Turn to [[100]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**72**]] You look up at the huge, bulbous spider perched near the roof and wag a finger at her. Webby blinks her way-too-many eyes at you. "That spider sure looks scared of you, Hog," Timic says nervously. "Let's go. You showed it." "Hog show her," you agree. You turn to walk away. *You can choose any destination you haven’t already visited.* Say hello to Flora? Turn to [[56]]. Walk the Wailing Steps? Turn to [[106]]. Head to the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[29]]. Or are you bored with cleaning traps? Turn to [[100]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**44**]] You lead the way into the old courtyard, swatting any plants that try to grab you. You hear the sounds of some sort of combat happening near the black oak in the middle - it sounds like Flora is entertaining her guests. You tramp through the garden, swatting aside any vines or plants that try to grab you. It's a fun workout. The sounds of battle grow louder as you draw near to the twisted black oak in the center. You see all three adventurers, still up and fighting, with a half-dozen shattered treants lying about. You see Flora struggling to escape Malta's grip, but the red-haired warrior is stronger than she looks. Are you **CAREFREE**? Turn to [[38]]. If not, you must fight for your life. Turn to [[3]].

{ (set: $weapon to "vines") (set: $attackbonus to 0) (set: $vesshp to 4) (set: $vessthreat to 8) (set: $foe to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**23**]] A sharp pain writhes through your body as something winds around your bones. You aren't held in place, not nearly so much as the blue lady was hoping. "Why isn't it working?" she says, flipping through a thick book. "It should work!" *In combat, you no longer have a +2 bonus to your total, but instead may reduce a die by one (to a minimum of 1).* You take a shuddering step forward as vines begin to poke through your skin. Vess looks up, just in time to notice you reaching for her with your massive hand. |vess>[(text-size: 1.2)[**VESS** ] THREAT [**$vessthreat**]<foethreat| HEALTH [**$vesshp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") (link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" Vess blasts you back with a barrage of force, dealing **2 damage** and giving her space to work with. Her threat becomes **10** for the rest of the combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $vessthreat to 10)(rerun:?foethreat)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= $vessthreat)[ (print: " You critically $wound Vess for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "ration_human") (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Vess with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "ration_human") (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[You may add two portions of HUMAN to your rations before you keep moving. Turn to [[5]].] }

{ (set: $damielhp to 8) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**5**]] You feel strangely at home in the gardens in a way you never did before. None of the plants reach for you, no vines try to loop around you and drag you away. If anything, the plants treat you like one of their own. "The Fair Sister preserve us! Help!" comes a man's voice. You step from the bushes to see Damiel, desperately tugging at a pair of female legs that protrude from the mouth of a carnivorous plant. The cleric looks over, shocked at the sight of a green behemoth, and he clasps his holy symbol and prepares to fight for his life. |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "41")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "41")]]]]] ]]] }

{ (set: $damielhp to 8) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**38**]] The giant spider, displaced from its webs in the gatehouse, is lurking in the branches of Flora's tree. As Malta prepares to strike Flora down the enormous spider tackles her to the ground and plunges its fangs into her shoulder. The battlefield erupts into chaos as the adventurers turn to face this new threat. You take full advantage as you emerge from the bushes, lunging for the white-robed priest. He turns, brandishing his holy symbol. |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "46")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "46")]]]]] ]]] }

{ (set: $bold to true) (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (display: "ration_human") } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**46**]] You gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for defeating Damiel. The fight comes to a sudden and violent end as you rip Damiel's head clean off. His body falls, his fine white robes stained red, while you survey the rest of the battle. No longer pinned by Malta, Flora was able to wrap Vess in vines so she couldn't cast any more spells. The giant spider is busily spinning Malta up in a cocoon. It seems the fight is pretty much over - you collect Damiel and add **two portions of HUMAN** to your rations. Flora regards you coolly. "You may go, ogre. Your work is done." You look at Vess questioningly, but the dryad shakes her head. She points towards the exit, and you content yourself with the rations you've already collected. You don't see any hint of goblin presence, but you're not surprised. Timic always knew how to hide when danger reared its ugly head. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[87]]. Otherwise you hear commotion outside. Turn to [[15]].

{ (set: $cranky to true) (set: $bold to true) (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**15**]] Defeating these adventurers has only fueled your bloodlust. Write the word *CRANKY* on your sheet. **You may cross this word off at any point to turn a die to a six.** Emerging from the garden you nearly trip over Timic, appearing from a secret passage. The onion-clad goblin holds up his folded parchment. “I found a guy with an overwrought tragic backstory,” Timic says. “That was the last square. I’m going to go see Gramandris. You coming?” You nod, loping along after Timic. You feel your stomach rumble. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[Go see Gramandris? Turn to [[91]].]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**8**]] You move forward alone, trying to close the gap between you and the adventurers. You see the blue lady bringing up the rear, and figure if you time it right you can pick her off while the others are distracted by the carnivorous plants in the garden. Sure enough there's a battle cry from Malta as vines begin to wrap around her, and she hacks them apart with her sword. Damiel joins the fight, brandishing a knife that glows with holy fire, while Vess begins to cast her magic from the back. You approach quickly, but your foot kicks some of the rubble as you pass through the crumbling tower. Vess notices your approach. There's a look of fear on her face, but she doesn't run away. She turns to face you, waves a hand, and suddenly your limbs stiffen. You can't move! Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[23]]. Otherwise, you stand completely still, unable to do anything but watch as Vess turns and runs into the garden to catch up to her group. It feels like an eternity before you can move again, but you're lucky the others were busy and couldn't finish you off. You wouldn't have been able to defend yourself at all! Turn to [[44]].

{ (set: $weapon to "vines") (set: $attackbonus to 0) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**18**]] You feel a sudden pain wrack your body as something winds around your bones. You collapse to the ground and bellow in pain, feeling your skin writhe and shift as plant matter begins to take over. In a few minutes, the pain subsides and you can feel again. You look down at your hands and find vines and leaves protruding from your skin, which is an unfamiliar shade of green. You rustle faintly as you move. *In combat, you no longer have a +2 bonus to your total, but instead may reduce a die by one (to a minimum of 1).* You look towards the garden and feel a strange pull towards it. You enter the garden. Turn to [[44]].

{ (set: $pluck to it + 1) (set: $bold to true) (display: "ration_human") (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**41**]] The fight comes to a violent end as you pick Damiel up and slam him into the ground head-first with a nasty snap. As you collect his body - add two portions of HUMAN to your rations - you catch a glimpse of Flora watching you from the distance. You don't think you've ever seen her smile before. You wave. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for defeating the adventurers. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* You decide you've had enough of the garden for now. Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[87]]. Otherwise you hear commotion outside. Turn to [[15]].

{ (set: $maltahp to 7) (set: $damielhp to 6) (set: $vesshp to 3) (set: $foes to 3) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**3**]] Before you can intervene, Malta runs Flora through. The dryad slides back off her sword, black blood leaking out into the garden's soil as the three adventurers turn to confront you. Each of them has taken some damage (reflected in their HEALTH). You must fight all three at the same time. Roll once - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] for any enemy whose THREAT you don't meet or exceed. You suffer any critical hits that apply. You choose which enemy to deal damage to after you roll. |== |malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] =|= |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] ==| |vess>[(text-size: 1.2)[**VESS** ] THREAT **10** HEALTH [**$vesshp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess scorches you with fire for **6 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess scorches you with fire for **6 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) |dd>[(print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]] ] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Vess ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?dd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Vess for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd) (print: " You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]]] |dd>[$damiel[ (link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Vess ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?dd) (print: " You $wound Vess with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "59")]]]]]]] ]]] }

{ (set: $bold to true) (set: $pluck to it + 2) (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_dryad") (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**59**]] You take a moment to catch your breath, having slaughtered the entire group of adventurers. You are the only thing still moving in the blood-soaked glade. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for this monstrous display. You collect **six portions of HUMAN** and **two portions of DRYAD**. You may eat any number of these portions, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] per portion you eat. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[87]]. Otherwise you hear commotion outside. Turn to [[15]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**54**]] If there's one thing adventurers love, it's checking out strange noises. You do your best approximation of a griffin's roar, which you think is pretty good (but actually sounds like a strangled harpy). The conversation stops for a moment while you scramble away towards the blue corridor, then you hear boots in pursuit. You consider, for a moment, turning to meet them in battle. Your ogrish instincts are that you could take them all with ease, but you can hear Timic's voice in your mind telling you to fight smart. You keep moving. Blue Corridor? [[78]] Scything Pillars? [[60]]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**71**]] If adventurers love anything it's following weird noises. You gather some rocks and throw them against the wall, then begin to lope towards the stairs up out of the flooded sanctum. "Hey! Did you hear that?" comes Wist's voice. You hear the sound of boots shifting and a bowstring drawing taut. "Something is moving off," Kelliri says. "Something large." "I won't let it raise the alarm," Rurik growls, and the sound of charging dwarf follows you down the corridor. Hearing the other adventurers right behind him, you scurry up the stairs. You squeeze into the secret nook outside the gauntlet and close the door. You have to tilt your head sideways to see out through the eyehole, but you're able to see the adventuring party approach the gauntlet. The elf holds up a hand to slow her allies. "Careful," Kelliri says. "This looks dangerous." "Where did the big creature go?" Rurik growls, holding his axe. He looks around. "We should have caught up to it by now." "Not with your short legs, Rurik," Wist says. "You're one to talk," the dwarf shoots back. Ignoring her allies, Kelliri briefly glances towards your hiding spot, but her elven eyes go past it. She shifts her focus to the gauntlet, and she begins to lead the way inside. After a moment, Rurik and Wist follow. Are you **TOOTHLESS**? Turn to [[10]]. If not, turn to [[125]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**37**]] With the safety engaged, it's easy to open the stone door to the next chamber. You turn the bronze handle and it slides up into the ceiling, revealing a round chamber carved with leering devils. A gleaming ruby pendant sits on a pedestal in the center of the room, and a stone door on the far side leads deeper into the Iron Gauntlet. You don't see any bodies in here either. It seems like the gauntlet has been underused the last few times adventurers have come to call. "Huh. Let's head upstairs, yeah?" Timic says. He nods, leading the way back out. On your way, you notice one of the huge stone hammers is stuck down. You aren't sure, but you think it's supposed to be in the 'up' position. (text-color: #547278)[~~Tell somebody who knows how to repair the traps about the hammer? Turn to ?~~] Fix the hammer? Turn to [[14]]. Leave the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[4]].

{ (set: $toothless to true) (set: $hp to it - 2) (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**14**]] You squat, fit your fingers under the hammer, and heave. The stone hammer resists for a moment, then there's a loud stone crack as the handle breaks. You hear something inside the mechanism behind the wall go off, then a series of noises echo through the room. The darts fly, peppering you with tiny projectiles. You lose Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**]. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for your ogrish tendencies. You look at the broken stone hammer, then leave it alone as you hurry to catch up with Timic. *The keyword TOOTHLESS has been written on your sheet.* You leave the Iron Gauntlet. Turn to [[4]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**10**]] You wait to hear the sound of the traps going off but... nothing happens. In fact, it's eerily quiet as the group makes their way through the chamber. You emerge from hiding, peek around the corner, and see that none of the traps have gone off. That's weird. "Stay alert," Kelliri says. "That creature must have gone somewhere." "It's probably scared to face us," Rurik grumbles. "How's it coming with that door?" "I'm working on it," Wist says. You hear the sound of metal on metal as the halfling tries to work the iron handle loose. After a moment, there's a stone grinding noise as the door slides up and out of the way. "Oh! Look at that," Wist says, stepping inside. "Do my eyes deceive me, or is that a *ruby* pendant?" "Don't touch it," Rurik says sharply, moving to join him. "Could be trapped." You notice Kelliri waiting a moment, but you're a quick runner. You know that door's primed to drop when someone touches the pendant, and if you distract the elf she might be caught outside with you. Rush Kelliri? Turn to [[57]]. Wait outside to ambush them? Turn to [[27]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**125**]] The soft sound of cautious footsteps echoes from around the corner as the adventurers tread slowly through the gauntlet's first chamber. You emerge from the secret nook and slide forward to peek around the corner. Rurik is leading the way when he steps on a raised stone. He stops at the sudden, terrifying click. "Rurik!" Wist cries, rolling forward as the pendulum blades sweep out into the chamber. A cascade of darts peppers the adventurers, narrowly missing Kelliri as she spins away and nearly ends up impaled as a spear stabs up from the ground. The dwarf grunts as one of the stone hammers clips him, sending him reeling to the ground. "Find the shut-off!" shouts Wist, springing to his feet. "Where is it?" Rurik growls, getting to his feet. "That's why I said - ow - find it!" the halfling shoots back. You watch Rurik steady himself, glance around, then step forward right into the path of a pendulum blade, which slices through him with a wet squelch and a spray of blood. "Rurik! No!" Wist shrieks. The halfling dives out of the way of a descending stone hammer, then looks towards the far door. He moves for it. Kelliri has been moving towards the gauntlet's entrance instead, but she's so busy dodging traps that she hasn't noticed you yet. You could ambush her when she escapes the chamber, or try to push her into the traps. Ambush Kelliri? Turn to [[139]]. Push her into the traps? Turn to [[155]].

{ (set: $kellirihp to 7) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**57**]] You begin to move. Kelliri looks in your direction, narrowing her eyes. "It's an ogre," she hisses, drawing back her bow for a shot. You won't be able to avoid it - you lose **2 HEALTH** as the arrow slams into your shoulder. But sure enough the door descends with a crash, leaving you alone with the elf. "Taste elven steel, ogre," she says, dancing back out of reach. You pursue, intending to taste elven flesh instead. |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |rd>[(print: " Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (display: "ration_elf") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (display: "ration_elf") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[ You add two portions of ELF to your rations. As the sounds of combat fade you look towards the stone door. You aren't sure whether the dwarf and halfling will be able to survive the gauntlet - the second room is a nasty trap. You could wait and see if they escape, or you could trust the gauntlet to do its work and head off in search of other food. Wait and ambush them? Turn to [[16]]. Leave them to die in the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[76]]. ]] }

{ (set: $rurikhp to 8) (set: $kellirihp to 7) (set: $wisthp to 10) (set: $foes to 3) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**27**]] You lurk just outside the gauntlet, waiting for the adventurers to come out. Oblivious to the danger, Rurik leads the way. You lunge for the dwarf and land a solid blow, but not enough to down the dwarf. You'll have to fight all three adventurers! Rurik has taken some damage (reflected in his HEALTH). You must fight all three at the same time. Roll once - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] for any enemy whose THREAT you don't meet or exceed. You suffer any critical hits that apply. You choose which enemy to deal damage to after you roll. |== |rurik>[(text-size: 1.2)[**RURIK** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$rurikhp**]<foehp| ] =|= |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] ==| |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik's axe lands a savage strike. You lose **6 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2 ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $kelliri[ (if: $deadly is true)[ (set: $hp to 0) (rerun:?deathcheck)] (else: )[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] ] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Rurik ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $kelliri[ |kd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Kelliri ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik hacks you with his axe for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $kelliri[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri looses an arrow for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $kelliri[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri looses an arrow for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $kelliri[ |kd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[You add two portions of DWARF, two portions of ELF, and one portion of HALFLING to your rations. Also, add (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for your impressive fight. You savor your victory. Turn to [[45]]. ]] }

{ (set: $kellirihp to 7) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**139**]] You wait for the elf to step out of the gauntlet, looking back with concern. "Wist! Careful!" she calls, watching the halfling as he picks his way through the traps, trying not to look at Kelliri's remains. You make sure Kelliri has something else to think about when you lunge for her. |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |rd>[(print: " Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "139b")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "139b")]]]]] ]]] }

{ (set: $wisthp to 6) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**155**]] You step into view with a horrible grin on your face. Kelliri notices you at the last minute and tries to fire an arrow but you snatch the bow from her hands. "Foul creature," she hisses, desperate fear on her face as she tries to nimbly step around you but you shift your bulk to block her. She pulls a dagger as you try to force her back into the traps. Make a **SKILL CHECK** with **DIFFICULTY 8**. If you fail, lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] as Kelliri stabs you. You're a stubborn ogre - you must keep making attempts until you trap her or die trying. (display: "skillroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "You push the elf... ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (if: $finalresult < 8)[ (print: "Kelliri slashes you with her dagger as she avoids the traps. ") (set: $hp to it - 2) (rerun:?hp)] (else:)[ (set: $kelliri to false) (set: $a_kebab to true) (if: $crit is true)[ (set: $skillcritcount to it + 1) (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) You gain (text-color:#ada06c)[1 PLUCK] for a crit on a skill check. ] You manage to force the elf back into the traps. There's a sharp gasp as a spear juts up from the ground, and this time she can't dodge away. You look past her to where Wist is rushing back through the traps trying to reach you. "You'll pay for that!" he cries, brandishing his dagger. HIs HEALTH has been reduced to reflect his wounds from the gauntlet. |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") (link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $wist[(set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $wist[ |dd>[(print:" Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $wist[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]]] |aftermath)[You add two portions of ELF and one portion of HALFLING to your rations. You can't get to Rurik's body without going through the traps, and you don't want to wait until they reset. *Mark ''MIGHTY'' on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion? Turn to [[31]]. ]]] }

{ (set: $mighty to true) (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**45**]] You emerge from the gauntlet with a feeling of triumph. You defeated all the adventurers who dared to enter the lower levels of the dungeon. *Mark ''MIGHTY'' on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion? Turn to [[31]].

{ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**16**]] You sit down in the gauntlet and wait for the door to open. Waiting you hungry. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[At long last the stone door begins to rumble, ascending into the ceiling. Positioned to the side, out of sight, you hear Wist's voice. "Kelliri? You alright?" "Stay behind me," Rurik growls. "That ogre could be anywhere." "Maybe Kelliri killed it though, right? And she just didn't want to wait?" There's a moment as the dwarf steps out of the room, his eyes sweeping back and forth. "Could be, Wist," he says, unconvinced. You lunge at him from the side and smash him with a solid blow to open the combat! (link: "Fight them both!")[(goto: "16b")] ] }

(set: $mighty to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**76**]] Sometimes people don't come back from the gauntlet, and the second room is one that might just do it. You're pretty happy having some elf to eat. You leave the gauntlet and wander into the rest of the dungeon. *Mark ''MIGHTY'' on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion? Turn to [[31]].

{ (set: $mighty to true) (set: $angry to true) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**7**]] While defeating these adventurers you've worked up an appetite. Write the word **ANGRY** on your sheet. **You may cross this word off at any point to deal THREE extra damage when you hit.** You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[As you finish up in the crypts you hear the sound of many goblins chattering excitedly, running about in groups. You watch some of them scurry by, holding weapons. "What going on?" you ask. "The wailer got set off again," one of the goblins cries. "Big adventurer. Outside!" You draw yourself up to your full height and roll your shoulders. There's one more fight to win. You head outside. Turn to [[36]]. ]

{ (set: $angry to true) (set: $mighty to true) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**31**]] While defeating these adventurers you've worked up an appetite. Write the word **ANGRY** on your sheet. **You may cross this word off at any point to deal THREE extra damage when you hit.** As you finish up in the crypts you catch sight of Timic as he emerges from a secret passage. “Hey big guy,” he says. “I see you’ve been busy.” You nod. “Hog kill lots ‘venturers,” you say. “Oh nice! Did you find a dwarf with a drinking stein?” You don’t know what a drinking stein is, but you show Timic the pulped body of the dwarf warrior. He produces his paper and marks off a square, then holds it up. “That’s the last one! That’s a line!” he crows. “I’m going to hand this in to Gramandris. You coming?” You nod, loping along after Timic. You feel your stomach rumble. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[Go see Gramandris? Turn to [[91]].]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**78**]] The blue corridor comes into view, with Sticky the Mimic sitting still and innocent against the wall. You give the chest a glare as you move briskly past, but it doesn't make any move to grab you. It knows there's actual prey drawing near. You reach the hall of scything pillars shortly and duck out of sight, just as an arrow whistles through the air past your ear. You grin. Those adventurers are in for a surprise. You make sure to grunt and make lots of noise as the boots come towards you. Sure enough, Rurik comes barrelling forth from the corridor with his axe held ready. "Foul beast! You'll rue the day you met Rurik Stonebridge!" the dwarf bellows, brandishing his axe. You see Wist emerge right behind him, but the halfling's eyes are drawn to the approach of Bitey the Giant Centipede. "You got the big guy?" the halfling asks, turning to face the centipede. "Aye," the dwarf says, grinning. "Right. Kelliri? Some arrows would be nice right about now," he calls. There's no response. "...Kelliri?" Let Bitey face Wist? Turn to [[62]]. Protect Bitey! Fight Rurik and Wist? Turn to [[79]].

{ (set: $hp to it - 4) (rerun:?hp) (rerun:?deathcheck) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**60**]] You reach the hall of scything pillars shortly and duck out of sight, just as an arrow whistles through the air past your ear. You grin. Those adventurers are in for a surprise. You make sure to grunt and make lots of noise as the boots come towards you. Sure enough, Rurik comes barrelling forth from the corridor with his axe held ready. "Foul beast! You'll rue the day you met Rurik Stonebridge!" the dwarf bellows, brandishing his axe. You see Wist and Kelliri emerge behind him, but you're already darting past the scything pillars. One of Kelliri's arrows slams into your back - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**4 HEALTH**], but you duck around the corner in time to lure the adventurers forward. "Keep up!" Rurik barks, and begins to run after you. The noise of the scything pillars goes off - you hear a whisper of deadly blades, and then the clatter of steel on the ground. As you poke your head back in, you see Rurik lying in halves on the floor, but the other two are still alive. "You'll pay for that, ogre," calls Kelliri. "Hog no have money," you reply. "Insolent brute," she hisses, though you aren't sure why she's angry. You don't have any money. Are you **BROKEN**? Turn to [[68]]. Otherwise, turn to [[77]].

{ (set: $rurikhp to 14) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**62**]] You square off against the dwarf, using your reach to keep him from getting that axe anywhere dangerous. In the background, you can see Bitey facing off with Wist, but the halfling is getting the better of the enormous vermin. |rurik>[(text-size: 1.2)[**RURIK** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$rurikhp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik's axe lands a savage strike. You lose **6 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2 ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |dd>[(print:" Rurik hacks you with his axe for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $rurik[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[ If you defeat Rurik, you see Wist standing there in shock. Rurik's body lies broken at your feet, and Kelliri is somewhere inside Sticky the Mimic. 4 HEALTH or lower? Turn to [[35]]. 5 HEALTH or more? Turn to [[6]]. ]] }

{ (set: $rurikhp to 14) (set: $wisthp to 10) (set: $foes to 2) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**79**]] "No hurt Bitey!" you bellow, circling around to put yourself in reach of both combatants. They both turn to face you, though Bitey continues to snap and gnash nearby. You must fight them both at the same time. Roll once - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] for any enemy whose THREAT you don't meet or exceed. You suffer any critical hits that apply. You choose which enemy to deal damage to after you roll. If your roll is 10 or higher (after modifiers), Bitey will take advantage of the distraction and bite whoever is lower health for 2 damage. |== |rurik>[(text-size: 1.2)[**RURIK** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$rurikhp**]<foehp| ] ==| |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik's axe lands a savage strike. You lose **6 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2 ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Rurik ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (display: "bitey") (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display: "rurik_death")] (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display: "wist_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (display: "bitey") (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death")] (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik hacks you with his axe for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death")] (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (display: "bitey") (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display: "rurik_death")] (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (display: "bitey") (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death")] (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display: "rurik_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[Bitey immediately snatches Wist's body and drags the halfling off towards it's hole. You consider wrestling it for the portion, but you decide Bitey earned it, and leave it alone. You collect two portions of DWARF. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for defeating them. *Mark MIGHTY on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion? Turn to [[31]]. ] ]] }

{ (set: $wisthp to 6) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**35**]] Wist sees your weakness, and hopes he can finish you off. He lunges for you with his short sword. His health has been reduced to reflect his battle with Bitey. |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $wist[(set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (show:?aftermath)]]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $wist[ |dd>[(print:" Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $wist[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[You collect one portion of HALFLING and two portions of DWARF to add to your rations. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for defeating him in such a wounded state. *Mark ''MIGHTY'' on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion? Turn to [[31]]. ]] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**6**]] Wist isn't about to stand and fight you. He can see the way this is going, and takes off at a run for safety. Right into the scything pillars. With Wist dead, you collect **two portions of DWARF** and **one portion of HALFLING**. *Mark ''MIGHTY'' on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion? Turn to [[31]].

{ (set: $wisthp to 10) (set: $kellirihp to 7) (set: $foes to 2) (set: $hp to it - 6) (rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**68**]] You lurk around the corner, waiting for Kelliri and Wist to attack. You banter with the elf for a while longer, occasionally waving to see if she'll shoot. She does. You're caught by surprise when Wist appears from behind you and stabs his sword somewhere vulnerable. You lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**6 HEALTH**]. If you're still alive, you turn to fight! You must fight them both at the same time. Roll once - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] for any enemy whose THREAT you don't meet or exceed. You suffer any critical hits that apply. You choose which enemy to deal damage to after you roll. |== |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] ==| |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $kelliri[ (if: $deadly is true)[ (set: $hp to 0) (rerun:?deathcheck)] (else: )[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] ] (else: )[ $kelliri[ |kd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Kelliri ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $kelliri[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri looses an arrow for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri looses an arrow for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] (else: )[ $kelliri[ |kd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[After, you collect one portion of HALFLING, two portions of ELF, then you head inside to collect two portions of DWARF from the scything trap. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for defeating them. *Mark MIGHTY on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion? Turn to [[31]]. ]] }

{ (set: $wisthp to 10) (set: $kellirihp to 7) (set: $foes to 2) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**77**]] After a while, both of them rush you. You must fight them both at the same time. Roll once - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] for any enemy whose THREAT you don't meet or exceed. You suffer any critical hits that apply. You choose which enemy to deal damage to after you roll. |== |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] ==| |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") (link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $kelliri[ (if: $deadly is true)[ (set: $hp to 0) (rerun:?deathcheck)] (else: )[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] ] (else: )[ $kelliri[ |kd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Kelliri ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $kelliri[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri looses an arrow for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |kd>[(print:" Kelliri looses an arrow for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] (else: )[ $kelliri[ |kd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[After, you collect one portion of HALFLING, two portions of ELF, then you head inside to collect two portions of DWARF from the scything trap. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for defeating them. *Mark MIGHTY on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion? Turn to [[31]]. ] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**26**]] As you descend from the Riven Tower you follow the commotion towards the Flooded Sanctum. It sits at the lowest point of the dungeon, and has been flooded for as long as you've been here. You're curious what's down there. Maybe some food? The stairs that previously descended into water are now damp but visible, covered in gray-green lichen. Your eyes are good in the dark - you see the tunnel at the bottom, then the chamber it opens into. The pungent stench of mildew emanates from the wet dungeon walls. In the distance you glimpse the flicker of torchlight. There shouldn't be any torches down in the flooded sanctum! You begin to creep forward. Turn to [[65]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**83**]] You descend from the Riven Tower with Timic following. “I think that went well,” he says brightly as he hops down the stairs. “Really well.” “Hog think so too,” you say. “Big bird thing nice.” As you reach the bottom of the steps you glimpse a trio of goblins scurrying along the tunnel. “Hog! There’s adventurers!” one calls, pointing. You grin. “Hog know what do with ‘venturers,” you say, moving to find them. Are you **CLOSED**? Turn to [[136]]. If not, turn to [[70]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**70**]] You keep to the shadows as you move through the dungeon after the adventurers. The lady in blue pauses, glancing back over her shoulder, squinting beneath the wide brim of her hat. "I heard something," she says. "What did you hear, Vess?" The white-clad man steps up beside her, stroking his goatee. "Something's following us, I just know it." "Let it come," he says, touching a finger to his holy symbol. "The Fair Sister will watch over us and see us through." You hear a snicker from the red-haired warrior. "Hey Damiel, are you finished touching your lady?" she says with a grin. The cleric goes red. "I'll have you know the Fair Sister is a chaste goddess, Malta. You'd do well not to blaspheme. And unlike *others* of my faith, I do not treat with her evening sister." "Shame," Malta says. "The Pale Sister has all the fun in that pair." You wonder why adventurers always seem to have such banter while facing certain death? Crouched behind some rubble, you notice the passage they’re exploring leads towards the Black Garden. It would be easy to stay back and follow, waiting until they meet the carnivorous plants before you strike. The archway to the Flattening Terrace is halfway down the tunnel, however. If you rushed the adventurers, there’s a good chance they’d flee through the archway instead. (text-color: #547278)[~~Try out some banter on the adventurers? Turn to ?~~] Sneak after the adventurers? Turn to [[8]]. Rush straight at them? Turn to [[88]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**50**]] As you prowl forward through the sanctum, the stench of damp stone makes you hungry. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[ “What do you think un-flooded the sanctum?” Timic wonders aloud. “A dark wizard maybe? Oh! Maybe one of those huge tunneling worms?” You lick your fingers a little. “Hog want eat huge worm,” you say, imagining it. Timic chuckles. “You will, big guy. Promise.” He waits for you to lead the way forward once more. Are you **DAMP**? Turn to [[149]]. If not, turn to [[65]]. ]

{ (set: $hp to it - 4) (rerun:?hp) (set: $maltahp to 10) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**42**]] Your limbs stiffen and hold, locking you in place! What did the lady in blue do to you? Try though you might, you can’t free yourself as Malta approaches. “Go,” she says to the others. “I’ll finish him.” “You sure?” Vess asks, straightening her glasses. The warrior just waves a hand, and the wizard moves to join Damiel through the archway. The feeling of Malta’s sword stabbing through your gut jolts you from your paralysis. Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**4 HEALTH**]. You howl in pain, then prepare to tear this warrior apart. |malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "9")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "9")]]]]] ]]] }

{ (display: "ration_human") } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**9**]] The fight was only ever going to end one way. Freed from the blue lady's magic, you unleash your full ogrish might. You swat the sword out of Malta's hands, grapple her, and bite off her head. As the battle rage leaves you, Malta's body drops to the ground. You realize how wounded you are; her blade cut deep. You collect Malta - add **two portions of HUMAN** to your rations. You know her companions are waiting for Malta near the garden. You aren't sure if they've gone inside yet, but you know they'll be close to the old gatehouse and Webby, the giant spider who lurks there. You grin. Bring them to the giant spider? Turn to [[82]]. Bring the giant spider to them? Turn to [[13]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**82**]] You lope into the garden after the other adventurers. The sound of vines and plants rustling is ominous in the old courtyard, all of it dominated by that massive black oak in the middle. You see Vess and Damiel hesitating at the edge, waiting for Malta to catch up. You toss Malta's sword in their direction. The steel clatters loudly on the ground, drawing their eyes. You grin, your bloody teeth telling the story, before you move quickly for the old gatehouse. Are you **CAREFREE**? Turn to [[84]]. If not, you reach the Old Gatehouse. Turn to [[69]].

{ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**13**]] The old gatehouse looms large with its rotted doors and shadowy, cavernous interior. You step inside and glance around for Webby. Are you **CAREFREE**? Turn to [[20]]. Otherwise, (link-reveal: "keep reading.")[ It doesn't take long to spot her; your eyes are good in the dark. You reach up and attempt to grapple the giant spider. Make a **SKILL CHECK** with **DIFFICULTY 8**. If you fail to grab Webby, lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] as she bites you. You're a stubborn ogre - you must keep making attempts until you collect the spider or die trying. (display: "skillroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "You wrestle... ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (if: $finalresult < 8)[ (set: $hp to it - 2) (rerun:?hp) Webby bites you! You lose **2 HEALTH**. ] (else:)[ (set: $a_carrier to true) (if: $crit is true)[ (set: $skillcritcount to it + 1) (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) You gain (text-color:#ada06c)[1 PLUCK] for a crit on a skill check. ] Grasping the enormous arachnid by her bulbous backside, you move into the garden towards the sound of thrashing vines and snapping plants. The huge spider's legs whip about in the air as you keep her firmly in your grip long enough to throw her towards the sound of the fighting. "Where did *that* come from?!" Vess shrieks. You hear Webby hiss and chitter and lash out at the adventurers. As you part the bushes you see Vess in the spider's grasp, while Damiel backs away, desperately holding up his holy symbol. He looks to the side. "Oh hells..." (link: "Fight Damiel")[(goto: "13b")] ]]]] }

{ (display: "ration_human") (set: $bold to true) (rerun:?stats) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**33**]] Your meaty fist smashes Damiel's face in. The cleric drops like a sack of rocks. You look to where Webby is retreating with a cocooned Vess - it looks like you'll have to let one of your snacks go. You collect Damiel's body - add two portions of HUMAN to your rations - then head out of the garden. *Mark BOLD on your sheet.* Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[87]]. Otherwise you hear commotion outside. Turn to [[15]].

{ (set: $damielhp to 6) (set: $vesshp to 4) (set: $foes to 2) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**84**]] You step through the rotten gate into the cavernous gatehouse, but there are no webs present. Nor is there a giant spider to greet them. You turn, realizing it's up to you to fight them both at the same time! |== |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] ==| |vess>[(text-size: 1.2)[**VESS** ] THREAT **10** HEALTH [**$vesshp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess scorches you with fire for **6 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess scorches you with fire for **6 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) |dd>[(print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp)]] ] (else: )[ $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Damiel ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Vess ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?md)(hide:?dd) (print: " You critically $wound Vess for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ |dd>[$damiel[ (link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else: )[ $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Vess ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?dd) (print: " You $wound Vess with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[If you defeat them both, you add four portions of HUMAN to your rations. Add (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for your impressive victory. Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[87]]. Otherwise you hear commotion outside. Turn to [[15]]. ]] }

{ (set: $bold to true) (rerun:?stats) (set: $a_webs to true) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**69**]] You step through the rotten gate into the cavernous gatehouse, blundering right through some of the webs as you clear to the other side. Webby chitters at you, but you left most of the webs intact to catch the other two. Damiel leads the way, and as he sees you on the far side he brandishes his holy symbol and starts forward. "The Fair Sister will rain down retribution upon you, foul ogre! You will- ah!" The cleric cuts off, startled, as he finds himself caught in the web. Realizing the danger, Vess looks up, just in time to see Webby descending. A quick pounce and the mage goes down in a flurry of legs and fangs. In short order the spider is wrapping both adventurers in web cocoons. You frown. You won't get to eat any of them. But at least you've defeated the adventurers in the garden. *Mark BOLD on your sheet.* Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[87]]. Otherwise you hear commotion outside. Turn to [[15]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**4**]] As you make your way back through the dungeon you feel your stomach gurgle. As an ogre, you're always hungry, but all this work cleaning traps has you especially peckish. You glance at Timic once more but the sight of those poisonous onions keeps you from trying to devour the goblin. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[You continue moving through the dungeon. If you haven't already, you may head to the Eternal Crypt? Turn to [[40]]. You could instead visit the Black Garden? Turn to [[12]]. If you've been to both areas so far, turn to [[100]]. ]

{ (set: $bold to true) (set: $cranky to true) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**87**]] Defeating these adventurers has only fueled your bloodlust. Mark **CRANKY** on your sheet. **You may cross this word off at any point to turn a die to a six.** You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[Emerging from the garden you watch a group of goblins run past, chattering excitedly. They're all carrying swords, spears, and bows, and they seem to be moving with purpose. Another group is moving past you, heading towards the stairs down. "What happen?" you call. "Hog kill 'venturers." "The wailer got set off again," one of the goblins cries. "Big adventurer. Outside!" You draw yourself up to your full height and roll your shoulders. There's one more fight to win. You head outside. Turn to [[36]]. ]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**36**]] "Hey big guy," Timic says, appearing from the shadows. The goblin always was a skilled coward. "You good?" "Hog good," you say. "Hog fight big 'venturer." "Oh. Good," Timic says. "I'll stay back here and make sure nothing sneaks in while you're gone." You emerge from the dungeon's main entrance. The crisp night air prickles your skin, and the dancing light of the eternal braziers casts dancing shadows throughout the shattered approach. You see a hulking figure moving towards the dungeon with a huge club in hand and a suit of patchwork armor. The helmet, an abomination of two helms lashed together with leather cord, cannot conceal that this adventurer is an ogre. You tilt your head. An ogre adventurer? That doesn't seem possible. If he's not an adventurer, though, he might be looking for a job. You don't want to share your goblins. "What you want?" you bellow. "This Hog dungeon." The adventurer pauses, resting his club across his shoulders. "Hog should go," he says. "Let Arug pass." Convince Arug to leave? Turn to [[48]]. Fight Arug? Turn to [[73]].

{ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**48**]] You don't like Arug telling you to leave, but you can't help but respect that enormous club and the ogre's armor. He may be a match for you. "Hog think Arug go now," you say. "No food in dungeon." Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[39]] Otherwise, make a **SKILL CHECK** at **DIFFICULTY 11**. (display: "skillroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "You try to persuade Arug... ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (if: $finalresult < 9)[ (goto: "61")] (else-if: $finalresult < 11)[ (goto: "32")] (else:)[ (if: $crit is true)[ (set: $skillcritcount to it + 1) (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) You gain (text-color:#ada06c)[1 PLUCK] for a crit on a skill check. ] (goto: "150") ]]] }

{ (set: $arughp to 12) (Set: $helm to true) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**73**]] You've been waiting all day for a real fight. You grin, and begin to march towards the other ogre. "Hog no go. Hog break Arug," you say. The dancing light from the eternal braziers cast the battlefield in a fiery glow as you prepare to destroy your ogrish rival. Arug's massive club is especially dangerous; if you miss Arug, you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**3 HEALTH**] instead of the usual 2. **Helmet:** You must destroy Arug's helmet before you can deal any damage to him. If you roll total attack of 10 or higher, you snap the cords that hold the helm together, and may begin to damage the ogre. |arug>[(text-size: 1.4)[**ARUG** $helm[with **HELMET**] ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$arughp**]<foehp| ] (display: "boss_attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $helm is false)[ (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[(set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Arug smashes you in the head with his club. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 3, and must set one of your dice to 1 next round before rolling the other. ") (set: $dazed to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Arug for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] (else: )[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Arug for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" Arug smashes you with his club for **3 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 3)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Arug with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] (else: )[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Arug with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] ]] (if: $helm is true)[ (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[(set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Arug smashes you in the head with his club. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 3, and must set one of your dice to 1 next round before rolling the other. ") (set: $dazed to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[(print:" Your mighty blow is deflected without effect by Arug's helmet! ")]] (else: )[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You rip off Arug's helmet and critically $wound him for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $helm to false)(rerun:?arug) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] ] (if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" Arug smashes you with his club for **3 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 3)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[(print: " You try to $wound Arug but his helmet prevents any damage! ")]] (else: )[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You tear Arug's helmet away and $wound with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $helm to false)(rerun:?arug) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] ]]] ] }

{ (set: $arughp to 12) (Set: $helm to true) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**39**]] Your green skin and the leaves and vines wrapping around you seem to confuse Arug. "What kind ogre Hog?" he asks. "Is Hog plant? Arug no listen to plant." The adventurer takes a step forward, gripping his club in two hands, and you know you're in for the fight of your life. Arug's massive club is especially dangerous; if you miss Arug, you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**3 HEALTH**] instead of the usual 2. **Helmet:** You must destroy Arug's helmet before you can deal any damage to him. If you roll total attack of 10 or higher, you snap the cords that hold the helm together, and may begin to damage the ogre. **You may spend 1 PLUCK to use your vines to destroy the helmet without a roll.** |arug>[(text-size: 1.4)[**ARUG** $helm[with **HELMET**] ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$arughp**]<foehp| ] (display: "boss_attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $helm is false)[ (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[(set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Arug smashes you in the head with his club. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 3, and must set one of your dice to 1 next round before rolling the other. ") (set: $dazed to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Arug for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] (else: )[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Arug for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" Arug smashes you with his club for **3 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 3)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Arug with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] (else: )[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Arug with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] ]] (if: $helm is true)[ (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[(set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Arug smashes you in the head with his club. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 3, and must set one of your dice to 1 next round before rolling the other. ") (set: $dazed to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[(print:" Your mighty blow is deflected without effect by Arug's helmet! ")]] (else: )[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You rip off Arug's helmet and critically $wound him for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $helm to false)(rerun:?arug) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] ] (if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" Arug smashes you with his club for **3 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 3)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[(print: " You try to $wound Arug but his helmet prevents any damage! ")]] (else: )[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You tear Arug's helmet away and $wound with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $helm to false)(rerun:?arug) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] ]]] ] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**150**]] At the mention of a lack of food, Arug lowers his club. "No food? Hog sure?" You grin and give your stomach a good pat. "Hog eat all food in dungeon. All 'venturers, all goblins, all things. Hog eat." You let out a thunderous belch to prove it. For a moment you see Arug sizing you up, wondering if he might be able to defeat you and eat you. But ogres taste notoriously bad, and the prospect of a difficult battle for such a poor feast dissuades the adventurer. "Arug go," he says with a sigh. He turns, and walks back down the mountain. You grin as you watch him go, satisfied that you've asserted your dominance over your dungeon once more. Only the smallest part of your mind is curious about an ogre becoming an adventurer, but you push that part down deep and bury it with your hunger. { (align:"=><=") [ (text-size: 1.4)[ **The Diplomatic Ending**] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "See achievements. ")[(goto: "achievements")]] (link: "Play again?")[(restart:)] ] (set: $win to true) (rerun:?achievements) }

{ (set: $arughp to 12) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**32**]] Your words give Arug pause. He rubs his head a little, confused at what you're saying. "Arug maybe check if food in dungeon," he mutters. "Maybe Hog not find all food?" "Hog check lots," you say. "Hog eat all food." You can see the ogre's mood shifting. He's going to attack. You pick up a large rock and start things off by throwing it at Arug's head, taking him by surprise. With a loud clank it strikes his helmet - the cord that binds the two halves snaps with the force and the helmet falls away. Angry, Arug bellows and charges, swinging his club. Arug's massive club is especially dangerous; if you miss Arug, you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**3 HEALTH**] instead of the usual 2. |arug>[(text-size: 1.2)[**ARUG** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$arughp**]<foehp| ] (display: "boss_attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[(set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Arug smashes you in the head with his club. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 3, and must set one of your dice to 1 next round before rolling the other. " (set: $dazed to true))]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Arug for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] (else: )[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Arug for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" Arug smashes you with his club for **3 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 3)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Arug with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] (else: )[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Arug with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] ]]] }

{ (set: $arughp to 12) (set: $helm to true) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**61**]] The adventurer ogre laughs at your words and grips his club in two hands. "Arug think Hog not tell truth. Arug kill Hog then eat Hog friends." He starts towards you, shifting to violence - the true first language of ogres. Arug's massive club is especially dangerous; if you miss Arug, you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**3 HEALTH**] instead of the usual 2. **Helmet:** You must destroy Arug's helmet before you can deal any damage to him. If you roll total attack of 10 or higher, you snap the cords that hold the helm together, and may begin to damage the ogre. |arug>[(text-size: 1.4)[**ARUG** $helm[with **HELMET**] ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$arughp**]<foehp| ] (display: "boss_attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $helm is false)[ (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[(set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Arug smashes you in the head with his club. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 3, and must set one of your dice to 1 next round before rolling the other. ") (set: $dazed to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Arug for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] (else: )[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Arug for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" Arug smashes you with his club for **3 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 3)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Arug with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] (else: )[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Arug with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] ]] (if: $helm is true)[ (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[(set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Arug smashes you in the head with his club. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 3, and must set one of your dice to 1 next round before rolling the other. ") (set: $dazed to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[(print:" Your mighty blow is deflected without effect by Arug's helmet! ")]] (else: )[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You rip off Arug's helmet and critically $wound him for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $helm to false)(rerun:?arug) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]] ] (if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" Arug smashes you with his club for **3 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 3)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $arug[(print: " You try to $wound Arug but his helmet prevents any damage! ")]] (else: )[ $arug[ |dd>[(print:" You tear Arug's helmet away and $wound with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $arughp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $helm to false)(rerun:?arug) (if: $arughp <= 0)[ (display:"arug_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "200")]]]]] ]]] ] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**20**]] With a final, violent jerk you snap Arug's neck. The ogre falls to the ground with a thunderous crash, his club rolling away into the flickering shadows. You catch your breath in the firelight, beneath the dark sky. You have won your battle with this mighty adventurer, and have proven yourself the biggest brute in Hal Varrow. Only the smallest part of your mind is curious about an ogre becoming an adventurer, but you push that part down deep and bury it with your hunger. { (align:"=><=") [ (text-size: 1.4)[ **The Dominance Ending**] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "See achievements. ")[(goto: "achievements")]] (link: "Play again?")[(restart:)] ] (set: $win to true) (rerun:?achievements) }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**88**]] You emerge from hiding and charge the group of adventurers! Bellowing furiously, you are gratified to see the startled expressions on their faces. "I told you!" The lady in blue holds up her hand towards you and wiggle her fingers. She's thin and meek and clearly the least dangerous of the group. The man in white ducks through the archway, while the red-haired woman places herself in front of Vess, her sword drawn and ready. Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[85]]. If not, turn to [[42]].

{ (set: $maltahp to 10) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**85**]] The vines beneath your skin coil around your bones and keep you moving. You aren't held in place nearly so much as the blue lady was hoping. The red-haired warrior pauses, halfway to you, and raises her sword. "Why isn't it working, Vess?" she growls. "I... I don't know, Malta," the blue lady replies, flipping through a book. "It should have worked!" You step forward with purpose, ready for battle. Malta holds her ground. "Go. I'll handle it," she says, and springs forward. Her allies look uncertain, but they move towards the garden. |malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (display: "ration_human") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (display: "ration_human") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]]] |aftermath)[ You scoop up Malta - add two portions of HUMAN to your rations. You continue into the garden. Turn to [[5]] ] }

{ --- |deathcheck>[ (if: $hp <= 0)[ (if: $dead is false)[(set: $dead to true)(goto: "end")]]] |statdisplay>[ (text-color: #de8ca7)+(text-size: 1.2)[ HP: ] (text-color: #de8ca7)+(text-size: 1.4)[[$hp]<hp|] | (text-color: #ada06c)+(text-size: 1.2)[ PLUCK: ] (text-color: #ada06c)+(text-size: 1.4)[[$pluck]<pluck|] | (text-color: #64a379)+(text-size: 1.2)[ HUNGER: ] (text-color: #64a379)+(text-size: 1.4)[[$hunger]<hunger|] | (text-size: 1.2)[(link: "Rules")[(goto: "Rules")]] ] |== |kw>[ **Keywords: ** $angry[Angry ] $bold[Bold ] $broken[Broken ] $carefree[Carefree ] $closed[Closed ] $cranky[Cranky ] $damp[Damp ] $grumpy[Grumpy ] $mighty[Mighty ] $stone[Stone ] $tangled[Tangled ] $tingly[Tingly ] $toothless[Toothless ] ] =|= (display: "inventory") ==| |achievements>[(link: "**Achievements: **")[(goto: "achievements")] (if: $damiel is false and $heals > 0)[(set: $a_res to true)] (if: $win is true and $kills < 3)[(set: $a_merciful to true)] (if: $win is true and $kills is 8)[(set: $a_violent to true)] (set: $crittotal to $critcount + $skillcritcount) (if: $crittotal > 4)[(set: $a_critical to true)] (if: $crittotal > 9)[(set: $a_critical2 to true)] (if: $win is true and $hunger > 5)[(set: $a_hungry to true)] $a_kebab[**Elf Kebab** ] $a_carrier[**Spider Carrier** ] $a_webs[**That's A Wrap** ] $a_res[**The Un-Resurrection** ] $a_merciful[**Am I Not Merciful?** ] $a_violent[**Ogrish Tendencies** ] $a_critical[**Critical Success** ] $a_critical2[**Like A Proper Ogre** ] $a_hungry[**So Hungry** ] $a_lady[**Ladykiller** ] $a_boys[**Out With The Boys** ] ] }

{ (set: $win to false) (set: $dead to false) (set: $hp to 12) (set: $pluck to 2) (set: $hunger to 0) (set: $attackbonus to 2) (set: $barred to false) (set: $crit to false) (set: $guardians to false) (set: $angry to false) (set: $bold to false) (set: $broken to false) (set: $carefree to false) (set: $closed to false) (set: $cranky to false) (set: $damp to false) (set: $grumpy to false) (set: $mighty to false) (set: $stone to false) (set: $tangled to false) (set: $tingly to false) (set: $toothless to false) (set: $malta to true) (set: $damiel to true) (set: $vess to true) (set: $kelliri to true) (set: $wist to true) (set: $rurik to true) (set: $linny to true) (set: $gramandris to true) (set: $webby to true) (set: $arug to true) (set: $a_kebab to false) (set: $a_carrier to false) (set: $a_merciful to false) (set: $a_violent to false) (set: $a_critical to false) (set: $a_critical2 to false) (set: $a_webs to false) (set: $a_res to false) (set: $a_hungry to false) (set: $a_lady to false) (set: $a_boys to false) (set: $weapon to "fists") (display: "weaponeffects") (display: "loot list") }

{ (set: $inv to (a: )) (set: $sold to (a: )) (set: $r_dwarf to (a: "one portion of dwarf", "a portion of dwarf", "one dwarf portion", "a chunk of dwarf", "a dwarf chunk" )) (set: $r_elf to (a: "one portion of elf", "a portion of elf", "one elf portion", "a chunk of elf", "an elf chunk", "a low-fat elf portion" )) (set: $r_halfling to (a: "one portion of halfling (a whole halfling)", "a portion of halfling (an entire halfling)", "one full halfling portion", )) (set: $r_dryad to (a: "one portion of dryad", "a portion of dryad", "one dryad portion", "a chunk of dryad", "a dryad chunk" )) (set: $r_human to (a: "one portion of human", "a portion of human", "one human portion", "a chunk of human", "a human chunk", "a human torso", "a haunch of human", "a piece of human", "some lean ground human", "a fatty chunk of human", "several strips of human" )) (set: $r_gryphon to (a: "one portion of gryphon", "one gryphon flank", "one chunk of gryphon", "a gryphon beak", "a gryphon wing", "a gryphon drumstick" )) (set: $r_spider to (a: "one spider leg", "a spindy spider leg", "a meaty spider leg", "a handful of spider eyes", "a hairy spider abdomen", "one gooey spinneret" )) (set: $eat to (a: "Om nom nom. ", "Crunch, crunch. ", "Tasty. ")) }

{ |inv>[ (text-color: #64a379)[ **Rations:** <ul> (for: each _item, ...$inv)[ <li>_item</li> ] </ul> ]] }

{ (if: $weapon is "sword")[ (set: $awound to (a: "slash", "slice", "cut", "stab"))] (if: $weapon is "vines")[ (set: $awound to (a: "strangle", "wrap", "snare", "lash", "pull"))] (if: $weapon is "axe")[ (set: $damagebonus to 2) (set: $awound to (a: "chop", "hack", "gouge", "hew"))] (if: $weapon is "fists")[ (set: $awound to (a: "pound", "smash", "tear", "crush", "squeeze", "grapple"))] (set: $wound to $awound's random) }

{ (enchant:?page, (font: "Gidole")) (enchant: ?link, (text-color:#a9dbd8) ) (display: "weaponeffects") }

{ (link-rerun: "**ROLL ATTACK!** ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (show:?aft) (hide:?md)(hide:?dd)(hide:?vd)(hide:?rd)(hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) [ |r1>[(set: $one to (random: 1,6))] (text-size: 1.4)[(b4r:"solid")+(b4r-colour:white)[. **$one** .]<first|] |r2>[(set: $two to (random: 1,6))] (text-size: 1.4)[(b4r:"solid")+(b4r-colour:white)[. **$two** .]<second|] ]<dice| | (link: "Pluck First")[ (if: $pluck > 0)[ (set: $pluck to it - 1) (rerun:?pluck) (rerun:?r1) (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats)] (else: )[(dialog: "No Pluck Left!")]] | (link: "Pluck Second")[ (if: $pluck > 0)[ (set: $pluck to it - 1) (rerun:?pluck) (rerun:?r2) (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats)] (else: )[(dialog: "No Pluck Left!")]] $cranky[ (link: "Cranky 1")[ (set: $one to 6) (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (set: $cranky to false)] | (link: "Cranky 2")[ (set: $two to 6) (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (set: $cranky to false)] ] $angry[ (link: "Angry")[ (set: $damagebonus to 3) (rerun:?stats) (set: $angry to false) (set: $damagebonus to 0)] ] (if: $wound is true)[(text-color:red)[*Crit:* |malta1>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $one to it - 1) (if: $one < 1)[(set: $one to 1)] (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?malta2)]] | |malta2>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $two to it - 1) (if: $two < 1)[(set: $two to 1)] (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?malta1)]] ]] (if: $poisoned > 0)[(text-color:green)[*Poisoned* |poison1>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $one to it - 1) (if: $one < 1)[(set: $one to 1)] (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?poison2)]] | |poison2>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $two to it - 1) (if: $two < 1)[(set: $two to 1)] (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?poison1)]] ]] (if: $weapon is "vines")[*Vines:* |dag1>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $one to it - 1) (if: $one < 1)[(set: $one to 1)] (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?dag2)]] | |dag2>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $two to it - 1) (if: $two < 1)[(set: $two to 1)] (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?dag1)]] ] (if: $reroll is true)[ |rr1>[(link: "Re-roll First")[ (rerun:?r1) (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?rr2)]] | |rr2>[(link: "Re-roll Second")[ (rerun:?r2) (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?rr1)]] ] [(set: $attacktotal to $one + $two + $attackbonus - $attackpenalty) Attack Total: (text-size: 1.2)[**$attacktotal**] (set: $damage to (max: $one, $two) - (min: $one, $two))(set: $crit to false) (if: $damage is 0)[(set: $damage to $one + $two)(set: $crit to true)] (set: $finaldamage to $damage + $damagebonus - $damagepenalty) Damage: (text-size: 1.2)[**$finaldamage**]]<stats| ] }

{ (link-rerun: "Roll Skill Check! ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (show:?aft) (set: $crit to false) [ |r1>[(set: $one to (random: 1,6))] (text-size: 1.4)[(b4r:"solid")+(b4r-colour:white)[. **$one** .]<first|] |r2>[(set: $two to (random: 1,6))] (text-size: 1.4)[(b4r:"solid")+(b4r-colour:white)[. **$two** .]<second|] ]<dice| (link: "Pluck First")[ (if: $pluck > 0)[ (set: $pluck to it - 1) (rerun:?pl) (rerun:?r1) (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats)] (else: )[(dialog: "No Pluck Left!")]] | (link: "Pluck Second")[ (if: $pluck > 0)[ (set: $pluck to it - 1) (rerun:?pl) (rerun:?r2) (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats)] (else: )[(dialog: "No Pluck Left!")]] $cranky[ (link: "CRANKY 1")[ (set: $one to 6) (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (set: $cranky to false)] | (link: "CRANKY 2")[ (set: $two to 6) (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (set: $cranky to false)] ] [(set: $crit to false) (set: $finalresult to $one + $two + $skillbonus - $skillpenalty) Skill Total: (text-size: 1.2)[**$finalresult**] (set: $result to (max: $one, $two) - (min: $one, $two)) (if: $result is 0)[(set: $crit to true)] ]<stats| ] }

{ (set: $fate to (random: 1,3)) }

{ (hide:?combat) (set: $wound to false) (set: $poisoned to it - 1) (set: $deadly to false) (set: $reroll to false) (set: $bling to false) }

{ (set: $inv to it + (a: _loot)) (rerun:?inv) }

{ [(if: $inv's length is not 0)[ (link-rerun: "Eat rations.")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (print: $eat's random) (set: $hp to it + 1) (if: $hp > 12)[(set: $hp to 12)] (rerun:?hp) (move: $inv's 1st into $sold) (rerun:?inv) (rerun:?this) (show:?aft) (hide:?hungry)] (text-color: #64a379)[ | **(print: $inv's length)** portions remaining. ] |hungry>[(link-rerun: "Go hungry. ")[ (set: $hunger to it + 2) (set: $hp to it - $hunger) (rerun:?hp) (rerun:?hunger) (show:?aft) (rerun:?deathcheck) (hide:?hungry)] ]] (else: )[ |hungry>[(link-rerun: "Go hungry. ")[ (set: $hunger to it + 2) (set: $hp to it - $hunger) (rerun:?hp) (rerun:?hunger) (show:?aft) (rerun:?deathcheck) (hide:?hungry)] ]] ]<this| }

{ (set: $malta to false) (replace:?malta)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

{ (set: $damiel to false) (replace:?damiel)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

{ (set: $vess to false) (replace:?vess)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

{ (set: _loot to $r_human's random) (display: "loot") (set: _loot to $r_human's random) (display: "loot") }

{ (set: _loot to $r_dryad's random) (display: "loot") (set: _loot to $r_dryad's random) (display: "loot") }

{ (set: _loot to $r_dwarf's random) (display: "loot") (set: _loot to $r_dwarf's random) (display: "loot") }

{ (set: _loot to $r_elf's random) (display: "loot") (set: _loot to $r_elf's random) (display: "loot") }

{ (set: _loot to $r_halfling's random) (display: "loot") }

{ (set: $damielhp to 8) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**13b**]] The cleric desperately tries to back away, brandishing his holy symbol. |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "33")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "33")]]]]] ]]] }

{ (set: $rurik to false) (replace:?rurik)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

{ (set: $kelliri to false) (replace:?kelliri)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

{ (set: $wist to false) (replace:?wist)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

{ (set: $rurikhp to 8) (set: $wisthp to 10) (set: $foes to 2) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**16**]] Rurik has taken some damage (reflected in his HEALTH). You must fight both at the same time. Roll once - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] for any enemy whose THREAT you don't meet or exceed. You suffer any critical hits that apply. You choose which enemy to deal damage to after you roll. |== |rurik>[(text-size: 1.2)[**RURIK** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$rurikhp**]<foehp| ] ==| |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") (link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik's axe lands a savage strike. You lose **6 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2 ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] ] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Rurik ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik hacks you with his axe for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[Gain **1 PLUCK** for defeating them. If you win, you add two portions of DWARF and one portion of HALFLING to your rations. Turn to [[45]] ] }

{ (set: $wisthp to 6) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**139**]] You hear Wist moving with renewed hustle to evade the traps. As you crush Kelliri's head, Wist appears moments later, wounded from a slicing pendulum (reflected in his HEALTH). |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $wist[(set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) |rd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $wist[ |dd>[(print:" Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $wist[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_halfling") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[With Wist defeated, you collect the bodies - two portions of ELF and one portion of HALFLING. You don't want to test the gauntlet to claim Rurik. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for defeating them. *Mark ''MIGHTY'' on your sheet.* Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[7]]. Otherwise, you hear a commotion. Turn to [[31]]. ]] }

{ (if: $rurik is true and $wist is true)[ (if: $rurikhp < $wisthp)[ (print: "Bitey bites Rurik for **2 damage**! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - 2)(rerun:?foehp)] (else-if: $rurikhp >= $wisthp)[ (print: "Bitey bites Wist for **2 damage**! ") (set: $wisthp to it - 2)(rerun:?foehp)] ] (else-if: $rurik is true)[ (print: "Bitey bites Rurik for **2 damage**! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - 2)(rerun:?foehp)] (else-if: $wist is true)[ (print: "Bitey bites Wist for **2 damage**! ") (set: $wisthp to it - 2)(rerun:?foehp)] }

{ |dehelm>[(if: $tangled is true and $helm is true)[ (link: "Spend 1 PLUCK to remove Arug's helmet. ")[ (print: "Your vines snake out and rip the stupid helmet from Arug's head, sending it clattering to the dirt. ") (set: $helm to false) (set: $pluck to it - 1) (rerun:?pluck) (rerun:?arug)]]] (link-rerun: "**ROLL ATTACK!** ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (show:?aft)(hide:?md)(hide:?dd)(hide:?vd)(hide:?rd)(hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) [ |r1>[(set: $one to (random: 1,6))] (text-size: 1.4)[(b4r:"solid")+(b4r-colour:white)[. **$one** .]<first|] |r2>[(set: $two to (random: 1,6))] (text-size: 1.4)[(b4r:"solid")+(b4r-colour:white)[. **$two** .]<second|] (if: $dazed is true)[ (set: $one to 1) (change:?first, (text-color: "red")) (rerun:?first) (set: $dazed to false)] (if: $helm is false)[ (hide:?dehelm)] ]<dice| | (link: "Pluck First")[ (if: $pluck > 0)[ (set: $pluck to it - 1) (rerun:?pluck) (rerun:?r1) (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats)] (else: )[(dialog: "No Pluck Left!")]] | (link: "Pluck Second")[ (if: $pluck > 0)[ (set: $pluck to it - 1) (rerun:?pluck) (rerun:?r2) (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats)] (else: )[(dialog: "No Pluck Left!")]] $cranky[ (link: "CRANKY 1")[ (set: $one to 6) (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (set: $cranky to false)] | (link: "CRANKY 2")[ (set: $two to 6) (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (set: $cranky to false)] ] $angry[ (link: "ANGRY")[ (set: $damagebonus to 3) (rerun:?stats) (set: $angry to false) (set: $damagebonus to 0)] ] (if: $wound is true)[(text-color:red)[*Crit:* |malta1>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $one to it - 1) (if: $one < 1)[(set: $one to 1)] (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?malta2)]] | |malta2>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $two to it - 1) (if: $two < 1)[(set: $two to 1)] (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?malta1)]] ]] (if: $poisoned > 0)[(text-color:green)[*Poisoned* |poison1>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $one to it - 1) (if: $one < 1)[(set: $one to 1)] (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?poison2)]] | |poison2>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $two to it - 1) (if: $two < 1)[(set: $two to 1)] (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?poison1)]] ]] (if: $weapon is "vines")[*Vines:* |dag1>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $one to it - 1) (if: $one < 1)[(set: $one to 1)] (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?dag2)]] | |dag2>[(link: "-1")[ (set: $two to it - 1) (if: $two < 1)[(set: $two to 1)] (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?dag1)]] ] (if: $reroll is true)[ |rr1>[(link: "Re-roll First")[ (rerun:?r1) (rerun:?first) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?rr2)]] | |rr2>[(link: "Re-roll Second")[ (rerun:?r2) (rerun:?second) (rerun:?stats) (hide:?rr1)]] ] [(set: $attacktotal to $one + $two + $attackbonus - $attackpenalty) Attack Total: (text-size: 1.2)[**$attacktotal**] (set: $damage to (max: $one, $two) - (min: $one, $two))(set: $crit to false) (if: $damage is 0)[(set: $damage to $one + $two)(set: $crit to true)] (set: $finaldamage to $damage + $damagebonus - $damagepenalty) Damage: (text-size: 1.2)[**$finaldamage**]]<stats| ] }

{ (set: $arug to false) (replace:?arug)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

{ (align:"=><=")[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[You have died.] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "See achievements. ")[(goto: "achievements")]] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "Restart? ")[(restart:)]] ] }

{ (align:"=><=")[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-size: 1.6)[Working Ogre-Time] *Defend your dungeon home against seasoned adventurers.* (text-color: "gray")+(text-size: 0.6)[ A short gamebook by **Jason Romein**. version 0.4] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "I'm ready. ")[(go-to: "1")]] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "How do I play? ")[(go-to: "Rules")]] (text-color: "gray")+(text-size: 0.6)[ A **Merit Award Winner** for the 2024/2025 Lindenbaum Prize.] ] }

{ (text-color: #ada06c)+(text-size: 1.2)[**Achievements:**] |== **Elf Kebab** *Dispatch Kelliri in a violent way* **Spider Carrier** *Bring Webby to the fight* **That's A Wrap** *Trap two adventurers in Webby's web.* **The Un-Resurrection** *Kill Damiel after he has healed to full health.* **Am I Not Merciful?** *Complete the adventure without killing more than two people.* (link: "Got it. ")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] ==| **Ogrish Tendencies** *Complete the adventure while killing eight people.* **Critical Success** *Score five or more critical hits.* **Like A Proper Ogre** *Score ten or more critical hits.* **So Hungry** *Complete the adventure with six or more hunger.* **Ladykiller** *Defeat Malta, Vess, and Kelliri in the same combat.* **Out With The Boys** *Defeat Rurik, Wist, and Damiel in the same combat.* }

{ [(if: $inv's length is not 0)[ (link-rerun: "Eat rations.")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (print: $eat's random) (set: $hp to it + 1) (if: $hp > 12)[(set: $hp to 12)] (rerun:?hp) (move: $inv's 1st into $sold) (rerun:?inv) (rerun:?this) (show:?aft) (hide:?hungry)] (text-color: #64a379)[ | **(print: $inv's length)** portions remaining. ] (link: "Eat Linny. ")[(goto: "74")] |hungry>[(link-rerun: "Go hungry. ")[ (set: $hunger to it + 2) (set: $hp to it - $hunger) (rerun:?hp) (rerun:?hunger) (show:?aft) (rerun:?deathcheck) (hide:?hungry)] ]] (else: )[ (link: "Eat Linny. ")[(goto: "74")] |hungry>[(link-rerun: "Go hungry. ")[ (set: $hunger to it + 2) (set: $hp to it - $hunger) (rerun:?hp) (rerun:?hunger) (show:?aft) (rerun:?deathcheck) (hide:?hungry)] ]] ]<this| }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**106**]] The main approach to Hal Varrow is down the Wailing Steps, a broad stairway with all the hallmarks of a good dungeon entrance. Towering columns flank the stairs with gargoyles lining the spots where the crumbling roof hasn’t fallen away. You glimpse the Cursed Portcullis at the far end, only halfway shut. There’s the rattle of spectral chains, then a loud wailing noise fills the hall. You look around with surprise. “No! Stop!” Timic calls, waving. “Wailer, it’s us! We’re cleaning up.” The haunting cry falls away suddenly, and a ghostly man appears, looking forlorn. “Has it not been long enough? Have I not suffered so, small Timic? Large Hog? End this torment.” “Hah, yeah. Mondays, right?” Timic chuckles. “What’s up with the portcullis?” The Wailer looks up the stairs with a grim expression. “It will shut nevermore,” the ghost moans. “Its journey, like mine, has been interrupted.” (text-color: #547278)[~~Help the Wailer with his existential dread? Turn to ?~~] Fix the Cursed Portcullis? Turn to [[92]]. Head to the Iron Gauntlet instead? Turn to [[29]]. Or are you finished cleaning traps? Turn to [[100]].

(set: $closed to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**92**]] “Hog fix,” you announce. You walk up the Wailing Steps to the portcullis, where you put your hands on the gate and shove. It wiggles, but it doesn’t move. You frown. “Hey Hog, lookit,” Timic says. You look. The lower half of a corpse is sticking out from between the gears that allow the Cursed Portcullis to open and close. “How did that happen?” You shrug. “Hog fix,” you say, reaching to grab the legs of the corpse. “Oy! Hold the gate!” comes a voice. A short, grizzled goblin steps inside, pulling back the hood of his grass-lined cloak. “Oh, hey Rolt,” Timic says. “What’s out there?” The goblin sucks on his teeth, staring out towards the forest. “Danger,” he says. “Bunch of adventurers have a mind to sack this place today, and they’re no push-overs.” “Sure, but we’ve got Hog.” Timic pats you on the leg. You grin, one hand on each of the dead adventurer’s legs, and with a horrible squelch you tear them free of the gears. The Cursed Portcullis slams shut with a sonorous clang as you tuck the legs into your pouch. Add **one portion of MYSTERY ADVENTURER** to your rations. *Mark ''CLOSED'' on your sheet.* You eye Rolt hungrily, who eyes you back. “Yeah,” Rolt says, edging away. “We’ve got Hog. But they’ve got someone just as big.” You snort. “No 'venturer big as Hog,” you say. Rolt shrugs. “Hope I’m wrong then.” You consider whether or not to eat Rolt, but you have half an adventurer to eat already. You begin to lope back down the Wailing Steps, heading further into the dungeon. *You can choose any destination you haven’t already visited.* Say hello to Flora? Turn to [[56]]. Investigate the Old Gatehouse? Turn to [[64]]. Head to the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[29]]. Or are you bored with cleaning traps? Turn to [[100]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**91**]] Gramandris lairs at the top of the Riven Tower, a tall bit of stonework where the pinnacle was lost in some calamity decades ago. The wind that haunts the dungeon’s upper reaches is more insistent here, and Timic climbs the steps in your shadow for safety. No door bars the way to the tower’s height; an open stairway ascends to a platform, ringed with the remnants of what once were walls. You see Gramandris lying beside a leaning wall, her wings curled around her head, her leonine hindquarters tucked beneath a tattered tapestry. At your approach, her eagle’s head pokes up, bright eyes fixing on both of you, and she lets out a piercing screech. Timic ventures out from behind you, holding the folded parchment like a shield. “I finished your challenge,” he says. “See?” The creature rises suddenly, shaking off the tapestry, and pounces forward with a shrill chirp. Her head leans in close, scrutinizing the parchment, jerking about from square to square. She squawks, taps the ground with her beak, then rakes her talons against the stone. She fixes Timic with a querying stare. “Oh! That was in the Black Garden,” Timic says nervously. Gramandris issues a low coo, then continues her scrutiny of the parchment. You aren’t really paying attention. You’re busy exploring a nostril while you look around Gramandris’ lair. You notice a pile of shiny trinkets next to the gryphon’s tapestry blanket, which doesn’t really interest you much. You do, however, catch sight of some eggs. You pat your stomach as you wander closer. (text-color: #547278)[~~Maybe don’t antagonize a dangerous gryphon? Turn to ?~~] Take an egg? Turn to [[131]]. Break an egg? Turn to [[148]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**95**]] You can just hear the distant screams of the Wailer when you notice a pale blue light drawing near. You crouch below a crumbling pillar, next to the goblins, as a human woman in blue robes and a wide-brimmed pointy hat walks into the chamber. A glowing mote of blue light hovers in her hand, gleaming on her glasses. “Malta, I don’t see a way to lift the portcullis,” she calls back up the corridor, raising her voice to be heard about the wailing. “I’ll circle around.” “Stay safe, Vess,” comes a woman’s voice. “Damiel and I will look for another way in.” You see the blue-clad woman make a face as she casts her gaze around the entire room. “Great,” she mutters to herself. “Why did you magic through the door, Vess? Absolute idiocy.” You grin, watching her disappear down a corridor, leading towards the Black Garden and the Old Gatehouse. The human is all alone and doesn’t look very dangerous. She isn’t carrying anything pointy except for her hat, and you’ve never been hurt by a hat before. You feel your stomach rumble. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. Or you can eat Linny. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "linny_hunger2") |aft)[You decide not to eat Linny. You follow Vess. Turn to [[113]]. ]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**101**]] You can just hear the distant screams of the wailer when you notice a glowing light drawing near. You crouch below a crumbling pillar, next to the goblins, watching as three humans walk into the dungeon. Their leader is a red-haired woman in a breastplate that only comes halfway up. Behind her is a man in a flowing white robe with an ostentatious holy symbol and well-groomed facial hair. Bringing up the rear is a woman in blue robes with a wide-brimmed pointy hat and a pair of glasses. "Lookit the first one! That's a square," Timic whispers, pulling out his parchment. "Inapppropriate armor for sure." Linny makes a face. "You're doing that stupid game an' stuff for Gramandris? Nobody wins that," she whispers. "Just 'cause you couldn't win doesn't mean it's stupid, Linny. Maybe you're stupid." "Am not!" she hisses. You watch the adventurers make their way slowly through the chamber, heading towards the door straight ahead. You know it will lead in the direction of the garden. You could jump out and try to fight them all but even you know it would likely be a fatal challenge. Far better to ambush them when they're distracted or busy. You feel your stomach rumble. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. Or you can eat Linny. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "linny_hunger") |aft)[You keep moving. Turn to [[34]]. ]

{ [(if: $inv's length is not 0)[ (link-rerun: "Eat rations.")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (print: $eat's random) (set: $hp to it + 1) (if: $hp > 12)[(set: $hp to 12)] (rerun:?hp) (move: $inv's 1st into $sold) (rerun:?inv) (rerun:?this) (show:?aft) (hide:?hungry)] (text-color: #64a379)[ | **(print: $inv's length)** portions remaining. ] (link: "Eat Linny. ")[(goto: "97")] |hungry>[(link-rerun: "Go hungry. ")[ (set: $hunger to it + 2) (set: $hp to it - $hunger) (rerun:?hp) (rerun:?hunger) (show:?aft) (rerun:?deathcheck) (hide:?hungry)] ]] (else: )[ (link: "Eat Linny. ")[(goto: "97")] |hungry>[(link-rerun: "Go hungry. ")[ (set: $hunger to it + 2) (set: $hp to it - $hunger) (rerun:?hp) (rerun:?hunger) (show:?aft) (rerun:?deathcheck) (hide:?hungry)] ]] ]<this| }

{ (set: $linny to false) (set: $hp to it + 1) (if: $hp > 12)[(set: $hp to 12)] (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?stats) (set: $kills to it + 1) } (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**97**]] You look at Linny. The goblin looks up at you with big, nervous eyes. You lick your lips. Moments later, you've taken the edge off your hunger, and Linny's learned a grim lesson in how cruel and deadly the dungeon is. Restore (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**], and gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for your ogrish actions. *You may still eat rations from your sheet to recover additional HEALTH, regaining (text-color: #de8ca7)[''1 HEALTH''] for each ration you eat.* Timic is crouched just out of reach, watching you warily. "Full?" You consider it for a moment, then nod. "Full." "Good. That blue lady’s already gone, we should catch up to her.” (text-color: #547278)[~~Feel bad about Linny? Turn to ?~~] Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[94]]. Look for Vess? Turn to [[99]].

(set: $weapon to "vines")\ (set: $attackbonus to 0)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**94**]] You feel a sudden pain wrack your body as something winds around your bones. You collapse to the ground and bellow in pain, feeling your skin writhe and shift as plant matter begins to take over. In a few minutes, the pain subsides and you can feel again. You look down at your hands and find vines and leaves protruding from your skin, which is an unfamiliar shade of green. You rustle faintly as you move. *In combat, you no longer have a +2 bonus to your total, but instead may reduce a die by one (to a minimum of 1).* You flex your shoulders, then glance down at Timic, who’s staring at you with wide eyes. He pulls out his folded parchment and looks at the squares, then shakes his head, putting it away. “Hog look for blue lady now,” you say. Timic nods. “Okay, big guy. Have fun, I’ll catch up later.” (text-color: #547278)[~~Ponder the nature of your new being? Turn to ?~~] Look for Vess? Turn to [[99]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**99**]] In the time it took you to eat Linny, you’ve lost track of Vess. She wandered down one of the corridors towards the Black Garden and the Old Gatehouse, but you didn’t see which way she went. The corridor is dark, but you glimpse a blue light in the distance. Vess seems to be moving slowly, looking for a way to link up with her allies. It’s a long, straight shot to catch up with her down the corridor, but you could charge right at the defenseless, unarmed woman who isn’t even carrying a weapon. You’re sure nothing would go wrong. But maybe it would be more fun to be sneaky? Charge straight at Vess? Turn to [[103]]. Be sneaky? Turn to [[142]].

{ (set: $hp to it - 4) (rerun:?hp) (set: $vesshp to 4) (set: $foes to 1) (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**103**]] Sneaking up on the blue lady would be a waste of time. You can just charge at her and get to her faster! You begin to run down the corridor towards Vess, who hears you coming and fixes you with a startled, frightened look. “Stay back!” she calls, holding that glowing orb in her hand that shines brightly. You don’t listen, but she flicks her fingers and speaks a strange word and an arc of lightning crackles through the air, striking your flesh with a jolt and a sizzle. Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**4 HEALTH**]. There’s panic in Vess’ face as you keep coming. She prepares to defend herself! |vess>[(text-size: 1.2)[**VESS** ] THREAT **10** HEALTH [**$vesshp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $vess[ |vd>[(print:" Vess scours you with fire for ''6 damage''! ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) ]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 10)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Vess for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_human") (show:?aftermath]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $vess[ |vd>[(print:" Vess blasts you with magical energy for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 10)[ $vess[ |vd>[(print:" You $wound Vess with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_human") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[You collect **two portions of HUMAN** for your rations. You know her friends are still looking for a way into the dungeon. You head towards the side entrance. Turn to [[181]]. ]] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**142**]] Something in your ogrish instincts tell you to wait, that this blue lady is more dangerous than she looks. Moving quietly, you sneak down the corridor, well back of her circle of light. She lingers in a crumbling room at the end, examining her options. One path leads to the Old Gatehouse where Webby has all of her webs, while the other leads to a different, less-cursed portcullis. Vess is taking too long to make up her mind. You need to make it up for her. Scare her towards Webby? Turn to [[159]]. Chase her towards the portcullis? Turn to [[110]].

(set: $pluck to it + 1)\ (display: "vess_death")\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**159**]] It doesn’t take much to spook Vess. As you emerge from the shadows with a toothy grin, the blue lady goes pale. She reaches a hand to her orb, hesitates, then decides she’d much rather put some distance between you and her. She flees into the Old Gatehouse. Are you **CAREFREE**? Turn to [[132]]. If not, continue reading. You watch her go, then hear a shrill cry as she’s tangled up in the webs. You linger at the doorway as Webby descends to begin wrapping up her prize. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for your ogrish actions. You aren’t sure where Vess’ friends are, but they must be trying to find another way in. Turn to [[181]].

(set: $pluck to it + 1)\ (display: "vess_death")\ (set: $tingly to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**159**]] As you emerge from the darkness, Vess turns with a gasp, holding up her light. She raises a hand to do something, then quickly decides to put some space between you first. She’d have to run past you to get to the Old Gatehouse, so instead she dashes down the short corridor towards the somewhat less cursed portcullis. You move after her, grinning. As you round the bend you see her at the bars, frantically trying to make some strange gestures and say odd words. She doesn’t seem dangerous but you’re hungry, and you’ve already done enough waiting with all this sneaking. You reach for her. There’s a flash of light and a strange noise, then Vess becomes translucent, blue, and wobbly. She begins to squeeze through the bars with the ease of somebody more fluid than solid! You act before you think. You lunge for her and find your fingers squelching through her form. With a scowl, you crouch down, put your lips around her gooey boots, and begin to slurp. There’s a gloopy noise of panic from the blue lady as you noisily, greedily, drink her all the way down. As you swallow the last of her, you feel your stomach percolating with a weird motion, but you just give it a couple of punches until it’s still. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for your ogrish actions. Mark **TINGLY** on your sheet. Turn to [[181]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**162**]] You step out from hiding and close the distance to the gate in half a second. A human man is leaned up against the gate, his ear pressed to the lock while he works a delicate lockpick. He wears a flowing white robe with an ostentatious holy symbol and well-kept facial hair. Behind him is a red-haired woman in a breastplate that reveals just as much as it protects, with an impressive sword sheathed over one shoulder. Make a **SKILL CHECK** at **DIFFICULTY 10**. (display: "skillroll") Success? Turn to [[170]]. Failure, but made **8**? Turn to [[144]]. Failure? Turn to [[189]].

(set: $hp to it - 4)\ (set: $maltahp to 10)\ (set: $damielhp to 4)\ (set: $foes to 2)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**187**]] You lurk out of sight as the adventurers work to gain access to the dungeon. You hate waiting. “Any day now, Damiel,” the woman says. “I can focus better without you nagging me.” There’s a frosty silence. “I do not nag.” The lock clicks, and the gate swings open. “And I don’t do this anymore. Let’s go.” You tense, waiting for them to approach. The woman leads they way; a red-haired warrior in a revealing breastplate with a sword in her hand. The man follows behind, in flowing white robes with an ostentatious holy symbol and a neatly-trimmed goatee. You wait for them to pass, then attack Damiel from behind, smashing him into the far wall to begin combat! Fight them both at the same time! Damiel’s HEALTH reflects his wounds. { |== |malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] ==| |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $damiel[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) |dd>[(print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]]] |aftermath)[ (set: $bold to true) (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") You collect both corpses. Add **four portions of HUMAN** to your rations. Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet. Are you ''TINGLY''? Turn to [[108]]. If not, turn to [[126]]. ] ] }

(set: $pluck to it + 2)\ (display: "ration_human")\ (display: "ration_human")\ (set: $kills to it + 2)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**170**]] You reach through the bars and grab Damiel’s head in your meaty fist, then pull him firmly against the gate. There’s a strangled yelp before his head pops like a grape. Malta yells a battle cry and draws her sword, but you’re quick enough to dodge as she stabs through the bars.You slam a hand against her blade, using the gate as leverage to wrench it from her grip. Moving close, you catch her by the breastplate and pull her up to the bars, where you tear her into pieces. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for this monstrous display. Afterwards, you force the gate open and collect their bodies. Add **four portions of HUMAN** to your rations. Are you **TINGLY**? Turn to [[108]]. If not, turn to [[126]].

(set: $hp to it - 2)\ (rerun:?hp)\ (set: $maltahp to 10)\ (set: $foes to 1)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**144**]] You reach through the bars and grab Damiel’s head in your meaty fist, then pull him firmly against the gate. There’s a strangled yelp before his head pops like a grape. Malta yells a battle cry and draws her sword, lashing out at you before you can pull back. Lose 2 HEALTH. You growl, then pull the gate open and step outside to battle the red-haired woman. {|malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print:" You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] |aftermath)[ (set: $bold to true) (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") If you defeat her, you collect both corpses. Add **four portions of HUMAN** to your rations. Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet. Are you ''TINGLY''? Turn to [[108]]. If not, turn to [[126]]. ] ]] }

(set: $hp to it - 4)\ (set: $maltahp to 10)\ (set: $damielhp to 8)\ (set: $foes to 2)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**189**]] You shove your hand through the gate to grab Damiel’s head, but you catch your thumb on one of the bars and bend it backwards instead. With a yelp of pain you jerk your hand back, then hiss in pain as Malta’s sword thrusts through the bars. Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**4 HEALTH**]. There’s a click as the lock opens. The gate swings open and the pair of adventurers rush to face you. Fight both at the same time! { |== |malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] ==| |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $damiel[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) |dd>[(print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]]] |aftermath)[ (set: $bold to true) (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") You collect both corpses. Add **four portions of HUMAN** to your rations. Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet. Are you ''TINGLY''? Turn to [[108]]. If not, turn to [[126]]. ] ] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**108**]] As you collect the adventurer bits, you feel a strange sensation in your stomach. Ever since you drank that wizard you’ve felt a faint tingle, but now it’s getting worse. You furrow your brow and put a hand to your gut as hairs all over your body begin to stand on end. Your stomach churns, bubbles, then suddenly you let out a thunderous belch. Afterwards, your gut settles down, but your arms wiggle and bend more freely, almost as if you don’t have any bones. You aren’t as strong as you were before, but these new arms might be useful for trapping people. *''You no longer have +2 to your attack total in combat. Instead, you roll three dice and choose two to use.''* (Not yet implemented in the web game, sorry, but the +2 attack bonus is still in effect) Turn to [[126]].

(set: $bold to true)\ (set: $cranky to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**126**]] Defeating these adventurers has only fueled your bloodlust. Mark **CRANKY** on your sheet. **You may cross this word off at any point to turn a die to a six.** You make your way through the upper chambers of the dungeon but you don’t find any other adventurers. You must have defeated them all. You think about going back into the Black Garden to see what Flora’s doing, but before you do you catch a glimpse of Timic coming out of a side passage. “Oh! Hog, Lookit, I got my last square,” he says. He thrusts his folded parchment at you. “I’m going to hand it in to Gramandris! Want to come with?” You nod, and follow the goblin. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* You feel your stomach rumble. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[Go see Gramandris? Turn to [[91]].]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**113**]] You don’t need to worry about stealth with this lady in blue. You emerge from hiding and lope towards her, unbothered by the noise of your footfalls. She turns, her eyes go wide, and she raises her hand and speaks a few strange words while wiggling her fingers. Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[166]]. If not, turn to [[102]].

(set: $weapon to "vines")\ (set: $attackbonus to 0)\ (set: $vesshp to 4)\ (set: $vessthreat to 8)\ (set: $foe to 1)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**166**]] A sharp pain writhes through your body as something winds around your bones. Whatever the blue lady was trying to do completely fails to affect you. She looks down at her spellbook and begins to frantically flip through pages, backing away. You take a shuddering step forward as vines begin to poke through your skin. Vess looks up, just in time to notice you reaching for her with your massive hand. {|vess>[(text-size: 1.2)[**VESS** ] THREAT [**$vessthreat**]<foethreat| HEALTH [**$vesshp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") (link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" Vess blasts you back with a barrage of force, dealing **2 damage** and giving her space to work with. Her threat becomes **10** for the rest of the combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $vessthreat to 10)(rerun:?foethreat)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= $vessthreat)[ (print: " You critically $wound Vess for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "ration_human") (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Vess with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "ration_human") (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[You may add **two portions of HUMAN** to your rations. You grin, and go looking for her friends, who are likely looking for another way into the dungeon. Turn to [[181]].] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**102**]] You stop in place. You aren’t sure why you’ve stopped, but your arms and legs suddenly don’t want to move at all. You grunt in frustration, but even that’s difficult. The blue lady stares at you for a moment, catching her breath. “That was a close one,” she says, straightening her glasses. “Where’s Malta when you need her? There’s got to be another entrance around here.” She scurries off deeper into the dungeon. It's hard to say how long you’re stuck. You can’t understand how some wiggly fingers and words made you stop, but she’s definitely cheating. She should just let you kill and eat her like a normal adventurer. Doesn’t she know how this works? At last, your arms and legs begin to move again, and you resume your hunt for the adventurers. You hear some commotion from the Black Garden. Turn to [[44]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**181**]] The gate at the side door isn’t a true portcullis; it opens on a hinges and has a key lock, but the distinction is lost on you. Pressing your face against the bars, you peek out at the forest outside. You heard two more adventurers earlier, but you don’t see them. You’re about to push the gate off its hinges when you hear voices coming your way. You duck into an alcove and wait. “That gate! See it?” comes a woman’s voice. “Tell me you have your lockpicks, Damiel.” “Malta, I don’t *do* that anymore.” The man’s voice, Damiel presumably, sounds strained. “If you don’t, we’re leaving Vess to fend for herself.” There’s a sigh, then the sound of something clicking around in the lock. Attack them through the gate? Turn to [[162]]. Wait and ambush? Turn to [[187]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**20**]] You frown as you realize Webby’s nowhere to be seen. All that remains in the Old Gatehouse is the tattered remains of her webbing, thanks to your earlier churlishness. With an annoyed grunt, you head back towards the Black Garden. The sounds of battle echo out from near the black oak in the garden’s center. You push past the carnivorous plants and enter the broken courtyard, where you see Webby in the branches of Flora’s tree. The giant spider leaps from above to tackle Vess to the ground, while Flora’s vines have Damiel entirely wrapped up. The battle is over. You take a few slow steps forward, wondering if you could steal either corpse, but Flora shoots you a glare. “You’ve done enough, ogre. Begone from here.” *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[87]]. If not, turn to [[15]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**132**]] You were expecting a cry of surprise and fear as the lady in blue got tangled up in Webby’s webs. As you poke your head around the corner you remember how you destroyed those webs earlier, and find Vess backing away in the gatehouse, a thick tome in her hands. She finds a page she likes and holds up a hand, speaking some strange words. As you lunge for her, you feel your limbs begin to stiffen. Are you **TANGLED**? Turn to [[107]]. If not, turn to [[147]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**147**]] You find, to your chagrin, that your arms and legs are entirely frozen in place. You try to move, try to break free, but some unseen force is holding you in place. You can’t even grunt in frustration. Vess, takes a breath, watching you with trepidation, then slowly closes her book. “Well, I guess that’s that,” she says. “Be a good ogre and stay put while I find Malta. She loves killing ogres.” She scurries off into the dungeon. You lose track of how long you’re stuck, but it’s too long for your liking. You’re confused as to how it happened, the weak human shouldn’t have been dangerous at all. She should have let you eat her like a normal adventurer. Doesn’t she know how this is supposed to go? At long last your limbs begin to move again. As you begin your search for the adventurers, you hear commotion from the Black Garden. Turn to [[44]].

(set: $vesshp to 4)\ (set: $vessthreat to 8)\ (set: $foe to 1)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**107**]] There’s a look of confusion and terror on Vess’ face as you are completely unaffected by her spell. Frantically, she raises a hand to defend herself. {|vess>[(text-size: 1.2)[**VESS** ] THREAT [**$vessthreat**]<foethreat| HEALTH [**$vesshp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") (link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" Vess blasts you back with a barrage of force, dealing **2 damage** and giving her space to work with. Her threat becomes **10** for the rest of the combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $vessthreat to 10)(rerun:?foethreat)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= $vessthreat)[ (print: " You critically $wound Vess for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "ration_human") (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= $vessthreat)[ $vess[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Vess with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "ration_human") (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[You add **two portions of HUMAN** to your rations. You know her friends will still be looking for a way into the dungeon. Turn to [[181]]. ] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**131**]] Crouching down, you scoop up one of Gramandris’ eggs. As you stand back up you notice the gryphon staring at you with a piercing gaze, her body tensed for action. You look down at the egg in your hands. Put the egg down? Turn to [[122]]. Throw the egg at Gramandris? Turn to [[148]].

(set: $gramandristhreat to 10)\ (set: $gramandrishp to 12)\ (set: $foes to 1)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**148**]] The squelchy crunch echoes through the top of the Riven Tower as you break one of Gramandris’ eggs. The gryphon stares at you with shock, her eyes wide with rage. She lets out a piercing cry, spreads her wings, and lunges forward! {|gramandris>[(text-size: 1.2)[**GRAMANDRIS** ] THREAT [**$gramandristhreat**]<foethreat| HEALTH [**$gramandrishp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") (link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < $gramandristhreat)[ $gramandris[ |dd>[(print:" Gramandris savages you with her beak, dealing **4 DAMAGE** instead of the usual 2. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= $gramandristhreat)[ (print: " You critically $wound Gramandris for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $gramandrishp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $gramandrishp <= 0)[ (display:"gramandris_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "ration_gryphon") (display: "ration_gryphon") (display: "victory") (goto: "169")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < $gramandristhreat)[ $gramandris[ |dd>[(print:" Gramandris rakes you with her talons for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= $gramandristhreat)[ $gramandris[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Gramandris with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $gramandrishp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $gramandrishp <= 0)[ (display:"gramandris_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "ration_gryphon") (display: "ration_gryphon") (display: "victory") (goto: "169")]]]]] ]] }

{ (set: _loot to $r_gryphon's random) (display: "loot") (set: _loot to $r_gryphon's random) (display: "loot") }

{ (set: $gramandris to false) (replace:?gramandris)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

(set: $pluck to it + 2)\ (set: $hp to it + 4)\ (if: $hp > 12)[(set: $hp to 12)]\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**169**]] You slam Gramandris against the wall of the Riven Tower with a final crunch. Stones tip and fall from the tower itself, but the gryphon herself moves no more. Timic emerges from hiding, his eyes wide. “Oh wow, Hog. That was amazing,” he says. “Hog ‘mazing,” you agree. You collect **four portions of GRYPHON** to add to your rations, then dine on the remaining eggs. Recover up to (text-color: #de8ca7)[''4 HEALTH''], and gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for your ogrish actions. Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[26]]. Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[83]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**169**]] You set the egg back in the nest, then tuck the tapestry blanket over them. Gramandris lets out a wary coo, then watches you until you move back to Timic. “Hog sorry,” you murmur. The gryphon bobs her head, taps the ground twice with her talons, then returns her attention to Timic and his parchment. “Oh, right,” the goblin says, pointing to another square. “This one was down by the Scything Hall. And this one...” Gramandris prances around in a circle, her eagle talons clicking noisily as she makes low chirps of excitement. Timic grins, nervously, as he waits for the verdict. At last, the gryphon flaps over to her tapestry, collects a prize from her hoard, and flaps back to the goblin. She opens her beak and drops a little pewter figurine into Timic’s hand. “It’s the limited edition minotaur bard!” The goblin turns the tiny figure over in his hands, his eyes wide. “Wow! Thanks!” Gramandris shifts her eagle eyes to you. She reaches out with a talon and taps the satchel where you keep your rations, then looks at you with a snap of her beak. {You may (link-reveal: "give Gramandris two of your rations")[ (if: $inv's length >= 2)[ (move: $inv's 1st into $sold) (rerun:?inv) (move: $inv's 1st into $sold) (rerun:?inv) (set: $pluck to it + 2) (rerun:?pluck)] (else: )[(dialog: "Not enough rations!")]] in exchange for a trinket from her hoard. If you do, gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**].} Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[26]]. Are you **MIGHTY**? Turn to [[83]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**136**]] You can just hear the distant screams of the Wailer when you notice a pale blue light off down one of the corridors. You squint, making out the shape of a human woman in blue robes with a pointy hat and glasses. She has a glowing blue orb in her hand that lights her way, and makes her easy to find. “Come on, Vess, it’s not that scary in here,” she murmurs to herself. “You’ll have no trouble at all finding a way to let the others in. Of course not.” It’s a long, straight shot to catch up with her down the corridor, but you could charge right at the defenseless, unarmed woman who isn’t even carrying a weapon. You’re sure nothing would go wrong. But maybe it would be more fun to be sneaky? Charge straight at Vess? Turn to [[103]]. Be sneaky? Turn to [[142]].

(set: $damp to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**168**]] The Deep Well’s obsidian cover is cracked right down the middle. Very faintly you can hear the sound of an eldritch voice wailing, as if from miles away. You crouch down and put your ear directly on the crack to listen better, but it doesn’t make a difference. Sticky makes another attempt to eat you. Grabbing the Mimic by its tongue, you swing the chest around and smash it repeatedly into the seal until Sticky stops moving. Rising, you realize the crack has grown wider, and there’s a faint smell of brine rising from below. Some sort of viscous goo is leaking from Sticky and dripping down into the Deep Well. *Mark ''DAMP'' on your sheet.* You shrug. You wander back to help Timic sort through the chunks. Turn to [[121]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**152**]] You wander back over to Stompy. “What Stompy say?” There’s a pause from the golem, whose stone eyes crinkle. “My name is Rhaedegrys,” he rumbles. There’s a dubious note in his voice, as if he doesn’t think it will help. You bob your head. “What Ra… Stompy say?” The golem slumps a little. “There is a dark presence, ogre, leeching up from the deep places. Something ancient, something foul, that threatens to corrupt our home.” You nod. “I am bound to this place, sworn to guard this terrace against all intrusion. Somebody needs to warn the Overlord about this fell force that threatens us all.” You nod. The golem stares at you for a moment. “Will you go and warn the Overlord, ogre?” You nod. Bored, you wander back through the archway to where Timic still sorts through the various adventurer bits. He grins when you return, holding up an arm with a bracer on it. “Lookit this, Hog!” he crows, pressing something, and a blade juts out below the wrist. You chuckle at the silly weapon as you scoop up another chunk of meat. Timic goes back to picking over the corpses. “Did the golem want anything?” he asks. You shrug. “Stompy talk lot,” you say. *You may choose any destination you haven’t already visited.* Say hello to Bitey? Turn to [[98]]. Finish helping Timic? Turn to [[121]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**121**]] You help Timic sort through the adventurer bits. You think one of them smells like an elf but you can't find the head to be sure. Timic shows you a folded, bloodstained piece of paper he recovered from one of the corpses. "Lookit, Hog. It's an unfinished love letter," the goblin says with a chuckle. "That's a square for sure. I'll be done in no time." You finish cleaning up the trap - the chunk tastes like elf too - then move on. Visit the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[29]]. Or are you bored of cleaning traps? Turn to [[100]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**149**]] There is a sudden loud crack that reverberates through the sanctum, echoed by a distant splash. You lope forward into the dark. The sanctum, now un-flooded, smells thickly of damp stone and old places. You draw closer to the flickering torch, which hovers near the edge of a round hole in the ground. It’s being held by a halfling in black and gray clothes with a slender sword at his hip. A dwarf in clinking chainmail stands beside him, squinting up towards the ceiling. Up above, a round hole in the ceiling leads up into a chamber that seems faintly familiar. There are distant noises of some sort of rumbling conflict from above. “Hey Rurik,” the halfling ways, holding out the torch over the water. “Think we could swim down and get that chest?” The dwarf snorts. “What are you on about, Wist? What chest?” “When you broke that obsidian seal, the cracked one, there was a chest that fell with the pieces,” he says, waving to the water below. “It’s down there now.” There’s a chuckle from the dwarf. “That’s a sure way to drown yourself. Who knows how far down that goes? And if it’s full, it would be heavy.” You lurk in the shadows, waiting. You might be able to take on two adventurers are once. Timic touches your arm and whispers up. “Hey big guy, look! We’re down the Deep Well,” he says, pointing to the opening. “And somebody climbed up.” Go upstairs to find whoever climbed up? Turn to [[173]]. Deal with the adventurers down here? Turn to [[138]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**173**]] You climb the damp steps and make for the Flattening Terrace. Timic follows you up. Stompy the golem stands in his place in the middle of the round, vaulted chamber. The alcove’s floor has shattered and there’s no sign of Sticky the mimic. You scratch your head; didn’t that dwarf say he saw a chest fall into the water? It’s weird that there’s two chests nearby and they’re both missing! “Stompy, where ‘venturer?” you call. “Ogre,” the golem rumbles, turning to face you. “She was swift and nimble. The fair-haired elf maiden swept through my chamber with incredible speed, gone through that door before I could flatten her.” He points. Timic snickers. “I guess she didn’t stick around to drop a rope for her friends,” he says. “And she’s heading for the Scything Hall. I guess we’ll see how swift and nimble she is.” You finish picking your nose and return your attention to the conversation. You see Stompy pointing, and realize that’s the way the elf probably went. With a grin, you begin to lope after her. “Good luck, big guy,” Timic says. “I’m going to stay up here and throw rocks down the Deep Well.” The golem begins to rumble something at your goblin friend, but you leave Timic to his fun. You have an elf to hunt. Will you pursue her through the Scything Hall? Or will you try to circle around and cut her off near the Iron Gauntlet? Pursue the elf? Turn to [[194]]. Set an ambush? Turn to [[163]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**138**]] You aren’t about to go upstairs when there’s a juicy dwarf and halfling right in front of you. Waving Timic to silence, you step out of hiding and begin to charge towards the pair. Make a **SKILL CHECK** at **DIFFICULTY 9**. (display: "skillroll") Success? Turn to [[167]]. Failure? Turn to [[145]].

(set: $rurikhp to 14)\ (set: $wisthp to 10)\ (set: $foes to 2)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**145**]] You try to shoulder one of them into the well but you miss. You must fight them both! You must fight them both at the same time. Roll once - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] for any enemy whose THREAT you don't meet or exceed. You suffer any critical hits that apply. You choose which enemy to deal damage to after you roll. { |== |rurik>[(text-size: 1.2)[**RURIK** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$rurikhp**]<foehp| ] ==| |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik's axe lands a savage strike. You lose **6 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2 ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Rurik ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (goto: "190")]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (goto: "190")]]]]]] ] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display: "rurik_death")] (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display: "wist_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (goto: "190")]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death")] (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (goto: "190")]]]]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik hacks you with his axe for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (goto: "190")]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death")] (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (goto: "190")]]]]] ] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display: "rurik_death")] (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (goto: "190")]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death")] (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display: "rurik_death")] (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (goto: "190")]]]]] ]] ]] }

(set: $rurikhp to 14)\ (set: $foes to 1)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**167**]] There’s a cry from Wist as you swat him into the water, then turn to focus on Rurik alone. The dwarf brandishes his axe, swinging in wide arcs. {|rurik>[(text-size: 1.2)[**RURIK** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$rurikhp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik's axe lands a savage strike. You lose **6 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2 ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (goto: "182")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |dd>[(print:" Rurik hacks you with his axe for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $rurik[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (goto: "182")]]]]] ]] ] }

(set: $grumpy to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**182**]] Rurik, bloodied and battered, makes a desperate swing with his axe, trying to catch you across the throat. You catch the axe by the haft, yank it from his hands, and slice him in twain. You collect **two portions of DWARF** and add them to your rations, watching the water of the Deep Well. There’s a strange, eldritch noise, as if from far off, and the halfling doesn’t surface. *Mark ''GRUMPY'' on your sheet.* Turn to [[173]].

(set: $grumpy to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**190**]] The battle ends with a horrible crunch as you crush the last combatant’s skull in your palm. You collect **two portions of DWARF** and **one portion of HALFLING**, adding them to your rations. *Mark ''GRUMPY'' on your sheet.* Turn to [[173]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**194**]] You prowl through the archway into the Scything Hall where the bladed pillars are spinning and slicing, their blades whooshing through the air, but there’s no sign of the elf maiden. It’s clear she came this way, but just as clear that she avoided the trap and vanished up the stairs. Not worried about the trap, you break a few of the blades so you can get past and follow her up. Are you **BOLD**? Turn to [[133]]. If not, turn to [[188]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**163**]] For one who dwells in the dungeon, the Eternal Crypt is easy to navigate. You know the secret ways, and reach the Iron Gauntlet ahead of your quarry. You crouch near the entrance, lurking in the shadows, and watch the golden-haired elf draw near. She wears a green cloak and holds a longbow in her hands, an arrow nocked to the string. You watch her approach, her eyes flicking about. They settle on the shadows, and she spots you. An arrow hits your shoulder before you can even react! Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**]. You surge forward to attack, but the elf ducks into the Iron Gauntlet before you can catch her. Are you **TOOTHLESS**? Turn to [[123]]. If not, turn to [[172]].

(set: $kellirihp to 7)\ (set: $foes to 1)\ (set: $hp to it - 2)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**133**]] The wind rustles through the upper levels of the dungeon, rustling the moss that covers the walls. The tang of blood mingles with the earthy smell of the Black Garden. You pause at the archway, peeking inside. The elf is there, with golden hair and a green cloak, holding a longbow with an arrow nocked to the string. You emerge from hiding. The elf turns and shoots her arrow faster than you expect! Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] as you close the distance and prepare to fight! { |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |rd>[(print: " Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (display: "ration_elf") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (display: "ration_elf") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[ You collect **two portions of ELF** for your rations. *Mark ''MIGHTY'' on your sheet.* Turn to [[7]]. ]] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**188**]] Up the stairs you go, hunting the elf maiden. Wind whistles through the halls, rippling the moss that clings to the stone walls. You can smell the Black Garden ahead, its verdant courtyard rustling peacefully. From far off you hear the howl of the Wailer, bemoaning the presence of more adventurers. The sound of voices lures you towards the garden. You peek through the archway and spot the elf maiden. She has golden hair and a green cloak, and in her hands is a longbow with an arrow nocked to the string. Facing her is a trio of human adventurers. Their leader, a red-haired woman with a breastplate that only goes halfway up, seems to be the one doing the talking, while the white-robed man with a golden symbol and the blue-robed woman with a pointy hat both listen. Even at your best you’d be hard pressed to defeat four adventurers at once. You’ll have to wait for them to become distracted. Or create a distraction. Are you **CAREFREE**? Turn to [[143]]. If not, turn to [[127]].

(set: $maltahp to 7)\ (set: $kellirihp to 3)\ (set: $vesshp to 4)\ (set: $foes to 3)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**143**]] There’s a rustle from the high branches of the Black Garden before Webby shoots a line of webbing, catching Damiel square in the back. The man cries out in surprise and alarm, then vanishes up into the foliage above! “Malta! That spider got Damiel!” the blue-clad lady cries, pulling a thick book out of her satchel. She begins to flip pages. “I saw,” the red-haired woman growls, sliding a sword out of its sheath. The elf draws back her bow. With Webby’s distraction, it’s time to strike. You close the distance and smash your first into the elf’s back, sending her sprawling to the ground. She rolls with the punch and springs back up, but she’s taken a solid hit and is clearly winded (reflected in her HEALTH). Malta turns, her sword ready, and the adventurers prepare to fight you! { |== |malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] =|= |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] ==| |vess>[(text-size: 1.2)[**VESS** ] THREAT **10** HEALTH [**$vesshp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess scorches you with fire for **6 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "111")]]]]]] $kelliri[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "111")]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Vess ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?dd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Vess for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "111")]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd) (print: " You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "111")]]]]]] |dd>[$kelliri[ (link-reveal: "Hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?md) (print: " You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "111")]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(print: " Vess blasts you with force for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "111")]]]]]] $kelliri[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "111")]]]]]] $vess[ |vd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Vess ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?dd) (print: " You $wound Vess with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $vesshp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $vesshp <= 0)[ (display:"vess_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "111")]]]]]]] ]]] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**127**]] “Well met, Kelliri,” says the red-haired woman. “I’m Malta, the lady in blue is Vess, and the ugly one is Damiel.” “Rude.” The white-robed man strokes his well-kept goatee, studying the golden-haired elf. “I’m sure Kelliri can see me quite well, she has enchanting eyes.” The remark earns a snort from Malta and a stifled giggle from Vess, who claps a hand over her mouth to stop herself. The elf shifts her weight from one leg to the other, tilting her head to regard him. “These enchanting eyes can see a dewdrop at a thousand feet,” she says softly. “And these eyes have also noticed that we’re being watched.” She turns suddenly and lets an arrow fly. It ricochets off the archway you’re hiding behind. You jerk back, watching as the elf nocks another arrow, while Malta advances with her sword drawn. “It’s an ogre! Kill it!” There’s a brief temptation to charge them, to surprise them with an aggressive assault and tear them apart, but Timic’s been teaching you goblin tactics and some of it has sunk in. You’ll have your chance to rip limb from limb. For now, you flee. Escape to the Old Gatehouse where Webby lairs? Turn to [[105]]. Lure them to the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[160]].

(set: $bold to true)\ (set: $a_lady to true)\ (display: "ration_human")\ (display: "ration_human")\ (display: "ration_elf")\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**111**]] There’s a last horrible squelch as you crush the final adventurer’s skull in your palm, then there’s silence in the Black Garden. You take a moment to catch your breath in the blood-soaked grass. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for this monstrous victory. You begin to collect the corpses. Add **four portions of HUMAN** and **two portions of ELF** to your rations. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* If you are **GRUMPY**, mark **MIGHTY** on your sheet and turn to (link: "87")[(set: $mighty to true)(goto: "87")]. If not, turn to [[137]].

(set: $cranky to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**137**]] Defeating these adventurers has only fueled your bloodlust. Write the word *CRANKY* on your sheet. **You may cross this word off at any point to turn a die to a six.** You take the stairway down towards the Eternal Crypt. You know there’s a dwarf and a halfling lurking down there somewhere, getting up to no good. Sure enough, you hear them moving about. You could lure them to the Scything Hall where the bladed pillars and Bitey the giant centipede might be helpful. Or you could try to meet them at the Iron Gauntlet? Lure them to the Scything Hall? Turn to [[141]]. Face them in the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[199]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**141**]] Taking up a hiding spot, you stamp your feet a few times, then grunt. After a moment, you hear the adventurers drawing close. “It came from over here,” comes the halfling’s voice. “Aye,” the dwarf says. “What do you think, Wist? An orc? A troll?” “I think it’s making a mistake trying to fight us,” the halfling says. You can hear the grin on his face. As they come around the bend, you wait just a moment longer until they set off the scything trap. There’s a hiss from Rurik as he stops short, then a skittering noise as Bitey emerges from his hole and comes to claim a meal. The halfling spins to face the giant centipede, leaving the dwarf to you! Let Bitey face Wist? Turn to [[62]]. Protect Bitey! Fight Rurik and Wist? Turn to [[79]].

(set: $rurikhp to 8)\ (set: $wisthp to 10)\ (set: $foes to 2)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**199**]] You prowl over to the Iron Gauntlet and find the dwarf and the halfling emerging from the distant room. You lunge at them! Rurik has taken some damage (reflected in his HEALTH). You must fight both at the same time. Roll once - you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] for any enemy whose THREAT you don't meet or exceed. You suffer any critical hits that apply. You choose which enemy to deal damage to after you roll. { |== |rurik>[(text-size: 1.2)[**RURIK** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$rurikhp**]<foehp| ] ==| |wist>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WIST** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$wisthp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") (link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik's axe lands a savage strike. You lose **6 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2 ") (set: $hp to it - 6)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist hamstrings you. You lose **4 HEALTH** instead of the usual 2, and must reduce your highest die by 1 for this fight. ") (set: $hp to it - 4)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] ] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Rurik ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You critically $wound Rurik for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Wist ")[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You critically $wound Wist for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(print: " Rurik hacks you with his axe for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $wist[ |wd>[(print: " Wist knifes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] (else: )[ $rurik[ |rd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Rurik ")[ (hide:?kd)(hide:?wd) (print: " You $wound Rurik with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $rurikhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $rurikhp <= 0)[ (display:"rurik_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $wist[ |wd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Wist ")[ (hide:?rd)(hide:?kd) (print: " You $wound Wist with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $wisthp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $wisthp <= 0)[ (display:"wist_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_dwarf") (display: "ration_halfling") (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[Gain **1 PLUCK** for defeating them. If you win, you add **two portions of DWARF** and **one portion of HALFLING** to your rations. Turn to [[45]] ] }

(set: $kellirihp to 7)\ (set: $foes to 1)\ (set: $hp to it - 4)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**123**]] For a moment, you lurk outside, waiting for the telltale sound of blades swinging and hammers slamming to the ground, but the Iron Gauntlet is stubbornly silent. You frown. “Elf lady get killed by trap?” you ask. Her voice comes from deep into the gauntlet; she’s clearly put some space between you. “You insipid creature,” she says. “Come and see.” You poke your head around the doorway, then jerk back as an arrow whistles through where you were a moment ago. The elf is a good shot. “Oh no!” the elf calls. “That was my last arrow!” With a chuckle, you step out of cover and begin to advance on the poor elf. She waits until you’re a third of the way to her before she draws back an arrow and shoots you in the shoulder. You bellow in pain and betrayal, then begin to charge. She hits you once more before you close the gap. Lose 4 HEALTH for all the arrows you’ve been hit by. { |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |rd>[(print: " Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (display: "ration_elf") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 9)[ $kelliri[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (display: "ration_elf") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[ You collect **two portions of ELF** for your rations. You give one last suspicious look at the uncooperative gauntlet, then wander off. Are you **GRUMPY**? Turn to [[7]]. If not, turn to [[146]]. ]] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**172**]] You hear the telltale click of the pressure plate, and a gasp from the elf maiden as the pendulum blades begin to swing. You don’t hear any cries of pain, but you can hear her soft footfalls as she nimbly dodges the traps of the gauntlet. “Why don’t you come and get me, foul creature?” she calls. “Are you afraid?” “Hog no ‘fraid,” you say. “Elf ‘fraid.” “Am not,” she says with a gasp of exertion. “Elf ‘fraid cause Hog eat,” you tell her. There’s a pause as one of the stone hammers comes crashing down, then the elf’s voice comes again. “You’re a disgusting creature,” she says. “And if you don’t come get me, I’ll escape.” Follow her into the Iron Gauntlet? Turn to [[178]]. Wait for her to come out? Turn to [[191]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**178**]] The elf is so busy dodging traps and trying to figure out the cadence of the Iron Gauntlet that she doesn’t notice you until you’re right on top of her. A swinging blade slices a line across your side as you reach for the elf to push her into the traps. Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**4 HEALTH**]. Make a **SKILL CHECK** at **DIFFICULTY 8**. If you fail, you lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**] as the elf slices you with a small dagger. You’re committed to this course of action, you must continue until you succeed or die. (display: "skillroll") { |aft)[(link-rerun: "You push her towards the traps... ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (if: $finalresult < 8)[ (print: "Kelliri slashes you with her dagger for **2 damage**!") (set: $hp to it - 2) (rerun:?hp)] (else:)[ (display: "ration_elf") (set: $pluck to it + 1)(rerun:?pluck) (if: $crit is true)[ (set: $skillcritcount to it + 1) (set: $pluck to it + 1) (rerun:?pluck) You gain (text-color:#ada06c)[1 PLUCK] for a crit on a skill check. ] If you succeed, you force her back into the path of one of those swinging pendulum blades. Afterwards, you collect **two portions of ELF** and leave the Iron Gauntlet. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for your ogrish actions. Are you **GRUMPY**? Turn to [[7]]. If not, turn to [[146]]. ]]] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**191**]] You don’t think the elf can escape. You know that deeper into the Iron Gauntlet only leads to more and deadlier traps. She can’t dodge forever, can she? “Come, foul creature,” she calls, a note of desperation in her voice. “Face me!” “If elf want get eat, come out and meet Hog.” “This elf is not on the menu, Hog,” she says. “In fact- urk!” Her voice cuts off with a strangled noise and the sound of a blade meeting flesh in a very permanent way. You hear two halves of an elf hit the floor of the gauntlet. A quick glance confirms it. And despite all your talk of eating the elf, she’s too far into the Iron Gauntlet to retrieve. You’ll have to collect her later when you’re cleaning up. Are you **GRUMPY**? Turn to [[7]]. If not, turn to [[146]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**146**]] You feel your stomach rumble. You may eat any rations on your sheet, restoring (text-color: #de8ca7)[**1 HEALTH**] for each portion you eat. If you go hungry instead, increase your (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**] by two, then lose as many (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] as you have (text-color: #64a379)[**HUNGER**]. (display: "hunger") |aft)[As you approach the stairs that wind down to the un-flooded Sanctum you hear voices from the Eternal Crypt. It sounds like that dwarf and halfling have found their way upstairs. Turn to [[141]]. ]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**105**]] Scampering through the tunnels, you barely keep ahead of the pursuing adventurers. You hear the whistle of arrows, hear them nick off the walls instead of landing in your flesh. The twists of the upper walkways serve you well. You duck through the crumbling entrance to the Old Gatehouse, glancing up to see Webby lurking above. The spider chitters angrily, but you don’t stop to talk. You slink around the side of the gatehouse, then smash through the chained doors at the far end, creating a new exit from the dungeon. “We have him,” Malta shouts, charging forward with her sword in hand. “Wait!” Kelliri shouts, but she’s too late. Malta’s charge comes to a sudden halt as she hits the webbing, then makes things immediately worse when she thrashes about. She screams in frustration. “Stop! Malta, stop struggling!” Vess says. “You’re making it worse! Let me help!” You peek back into the gatehouse. Malta is thoroughly wrapped in webbing, while the lady with the blue hat is coming closer. There’s a thick book in her hand now, and she seems to be reading? You notice Kelliri glancing up into the shadows, shifting her bow up towards Webby. You pick up a heavy rock. Throw it at Vess? Turn to [[89]]. Throw it at Kelliri? Turn to [[154]].

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**160**]]

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**89**]] You hurl the rock at the lady in blue. You aren’t sure what she’s doing to try and help Malta, but it’s funny to see the warrior stuck and you don’t want it to end. There’s a surprised squeak from Vess, then a horrific crunch as the rock shatters both her glasses and her skull. The pointy blue hat, now stained with red, gets stuck in the webs. Damiel, his white robe spattered with red, holds up his holy symbol numbly as if he can somehow heal the damage. His eyes shift towards you and he begins to conjure some sort of holy light. Kelliri’s arrow whistles true and finds Webby somewhere soft. There’s a desperate chitter as the giant spider tries to attack the elf, but a second arrow forces Webby to retreat. “Get Malta free,” she hisses, shifting her bow to point at you. Charge into the Old Gatehouse? Turn to [[109]]. Circle around to the Wailing Steps? Turn to [[130]].

(set: $damielhp to 8)\ (set: $foes to 1)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**154**]] You take aim and throw the rock at Kelliri. The elf is focused on the giant spider, and doesn’t spot the rock until it’s too late. It smashes into her, sending her sprawling back with a cry of pain, bleeding and battered. Vess conjures fire in her hand and begins to melt the webs away from Malta. You watch as Webby descends, no longer threatened by the elf, and sinks her fangs into Vess’ neck. There’s a gasp from the blue-clad lady and the fire vanishes from her hand. Damiel turns to fight the giant spider, but Webby is already scurrying along her web to drop on Kelliri. The elf can’t get to her feet quickly enough to avoid being pinned and bitten by the arachnid. You stride into the Old Gatehouse to give Damiel something else to consider. { |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "171")]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (goto: "171")]]]]] ]]] }

(set: $hp to it - 2)\ (set: $damielhp to 8)\ (set: $kellirihp to 7)\ (set: $foes to 2)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**109**]] The sight of Vess’ exploding head has stoked your bloodlust. With a bellow, you charge towards the gatehouse, ready to destroy these adventurers! You hardly feel Kelliri’s arrow find your shoulder. Lose (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**]. As you charge, Damiel stops trying to free Malta and turns to face you. { |== |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] ==| |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $kelliri[ |md>[(print: " Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |md>[(print: " Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]] $damiel[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) |dd>[(print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] (else: )[ $kelliri[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $kelliri[ |md>[(print: " Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $kelliri[ |md>[(print: " Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] (else: )[ $kelliri[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]]] |aftermath)[ The adventurers are defeated. How much **HEALTH** do you have left? Five or more? Turn to [[151]]. Four or less? Turn to [[196]]. ]] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**130**]] The arrow whistles past as you duck out of the archway, hustling through the crumbling ruins that dot the mountain outside Hal Varrow proper. You’ve taken care of one of the adventurers, but there are still three of them in the Old Gatehouse, and it won’t be long before Malta is freed. Are you **BROKEN**? Turn to [[174]]. If not, turn to [[180]].

(set: $bold to true)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**151**]] You pull the arrow from your shoulder, then shift your attention to Malta. The red-haired warrior glares back at you, still tangled in webbing. She seems mad. “You stupid brute,” she hisses. “Arug’s going to kill you for this.” “Who Arug?” You scratch your wounded shoulder. “He’s bigger than you,” she says. “More powerful. And much smarter.” You frown. You don’t like it when things are bigger than you. Stepping closer, you reach for Malta and wrench her out of the webbing. “Wait,” she says, suddenly nervous. “What are you doing?” “Hog eat ‘venturer,” you explain. “Get more big.” The red-haired warrior makes a valiant attempt to escape your grip, but you have her pretty well held. You eat her. Restore (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**]. You see Webby coming down to try to claim the elf, but you warn her off with a glare. The wounded giant spider retreats back to the Old Gatehouse’s rafters while you collect the bodies. Add **two portions of ELF** and **four portions of HUMAN** to your rations. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**1 PLUCK**] for this impressive haul. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* If you are **GRUMPY**, mark **MIGHTY** on your sheet and turn to (link: "87")[(set: $mighty to true)(goto: "87")]. If not, turn to [[137]].

(set: $webbyhp to 5)\ (set: $foes to 1)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**196**]] Bleeding from a score of wounds, you shift your attention to Malta. The red-haired warrior is glaring at you, still wrapped in webbing, struggling in vain to escape. “You stupid brute,” she hisses. “Arug's going to kill you.” “Who Arug?” you ask. There’s a sudden chitter as Webby drops from above, leaking ichor from Kelliri’s well-placed arrow. She’s decided that, in your wounded state, she might be able to drive you off or kill you. Her (text-color: #de8ca7)[**HEALTH**] is reduced to reflect her injuries. { |webby>[(text-size: 1.2)[**WEBBY** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$webbyhp**]<foehp| ] (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $webby[ |rd>[(print: " Webby binds you in webs. Lose **2 HEALTH**, and for the rest of the fight you must re-roll your highest die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $reroll to true)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >=8)[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Webby for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $webbyhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $webbyhp <= 0)[ (display:"webby_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_spider") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (set: $bold to true) (rerun:?kw) (set: $hp to it + 2) (rerun:?hp) (show:?aftermath)]]] ] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $webby[ |dd>[(print:" Webby bites you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus >= 8)[ $webby[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Webby with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $webbyhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $webbyhp <= 0)[ (display:"webby_death") (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (display: "ration_spider") (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") (set: $bold to true) (rerun:?kw) (set: $hp to it + 2) (rerun:?hp) (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ]] |aftermath)[ You turn your attention to Malta, who’s stopped trying to escape the web. There’s a look of desperation on her face. “Ogre, there’s another way,” she says. “Free me, and I can show you how to become more than what you are now.” You scratch an armpit, furrowing your brow. “What lady mean?” “Free me, ogre. You don’t have to be a brute, you can be a hero. Have people look up to you! Respect you! I can show you.” You free her from the webbing, but only to eat her. Restore (text-color: #de8ca7)[**2 HEALTH**]. You discard her inappropriate breastplate, then set about gathering the rest of the bodies in the Old Gatehouse. Add **two portions of GIANT SPIDER**, **two portions of ELF**, and **four portions of HUMAN** to your rations. Gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for this monstrous massacre. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* If you are **GRUMPY**, mark **MIGHTY** on your sheet and turn to (link: "87")[(set: $mighty to true)(goto: "87")]. If not, turn to [[137]]. ]] }

{ (set: _loot to $r_spider's random) (display: "loot") (set: _loot to $r_spider's random) (display: "loot") }

{ (set: $webby to false) (replace:?webby)[ (font: "Rubik Wet Paint")+(text-color: #c20000)+(text-size: 1.4)[Dead ]] (set: $foes to it - 1) (set: $kills to it + 1) }

(set: $bold to true)\ (display: "ration_human")\ (display: "ration_human")\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**171**]] The fight ends with a resounding crack as you bend Damiel in half, then rip him into two gory pieces. You let out a bellow, then fix your eyes on Malta, who’s spattered with bits of Damiel in the aftermath of your fight. It seems Vess’ fire helped, since the red-haired warrior has gotten her sword free and is brandishing it in an attempt to keep you at bay. “Just try it, ogre,” she growls. “As soon as I get free I’ll make you pay for what you’ve done.” You look at her confused, holding two halves of Damiel. “Hog no have money, no pay,” you tell her. You step in and slam one chunk of the cleric onto her sword to neutralize it, then put an end to Malta’s plans for vengeance in a very final way. Add **four portions of HUMAN** to your rations. Glancing up, you can see Webby has already claimed Kelliri and Vess, and is busy wrapping them both in webbing near the top of the Old Gatehouse. You grumble, but you’ll have to be content with your catch. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* If you are **GRUMPY**, mark **MIGHTY** on your sheet and turn to (link: "87")[(set: $mighty to true)(goto: "87")]. If not, turn to [[137]].

(set: $maltahp to 10)\ (set: $kellirihp to 7)\ (set: $damielhp to 8)\ (set: $foes to 3)\ (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**153**]] You reach the Wailing Steps to find the Cursed Portcullis slammed shut. Crouching, you slide your fingers into the gaps in the iron, ignoring the horrible tingle in your soul, and strain to lift it. The portcullis doesn’t budge. You step back with a scowl, staring at the offending gate. The Wailer appears on the far side. “It will open nevermore,” the ghost sighs. “Doom has come to this poor, accursed portcullis.” “Hog not know why it broken,” you say evasively. “Hog go now.” You scurry off back towards the Old Gatehouse, where the adventurers are waiting for you. Kelliri, still on guard, shouts a warning as you appear. You must fight all three! { |== |malta>[(text-size: 1.2)[**MALTA** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$maltahp**]<foehp| ] =|= |damiel>[(text-size: 1.2)[**DAMIEL** ] THREAT **8** HEALTH [**$damielhp**]<foehp| ] ==| |kelliri>[(text-size: 1.2)[**KELLIRI** ] THREAT **9** HEALTH [**$kellirihp**]<foehp| ] |==| (display: "attackroll") |aft)[(link-rerun: "Resolve Damage ")+(t8n: "rumble")+(t8n-time:.1s)[ (set: $wound to $awound's random) (if: $crit is true)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel critically smites you for **2 damage** and heals all of his damage! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $damielhp to 8)(rerun:?foehp)(set: $heals to it + 1)]] $kelliri[ |vd>[(print: " Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta drives her sword into your shoulder for **2 damage**! Your highest roll will be reduced by 1 for the rest of this combat. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $wound to true)]] $kelliri[ |vd>[(print: " Kelliri springs back, draws her bow taut, and sends an arrow through your eye. You howl in pain. For the rest of the game you must re-roll your highest die result in combat. If you suffer another critical hit, you die. ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck) (set: $deadly to true)]] $damiel[ (set: $critcount to it + 1) |dd>[(print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] ] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Malta for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Damiel for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $kelliri[ |vd>[(link-reveal: "Critically hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?dd) (set: $critcount to it + 1) (print: " You critically $wound Kelliri for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] ]] (else-if: $crit is false)[ (if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 8)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" Damiel strikes you with holy light for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $kelliri[ |vd>[(print: " Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 9)[ $malta[ |md>[(print: " Malta slashes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] $damiel[ |dd>[(print:" You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]] $kelliri[ |vd>[(print: " Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]] ] (else-if: $one + $two + $attackbonus < 10)[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd) (print: " You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] |dd>[$damiel[ (link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $kelliri[ |vd>[(print: " Kelliri's arrow strikes you for **2 damage**! ") (set: $hp to it - 2)(rerun:?hp)(rerun:?deathcheck)]]] (else: )[ $malta[ |md>[(link-reveal: "Hit Malta ")[ (hide:?dd)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Malta with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $maltahp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $maltahp <= 0)[ (display:"malta_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $damiel[ |dd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Damiel ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?vd) (print: " You $wound Damiel with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $damielhp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $damielhp <= 0)[ (display:"damiel_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]] $kelliri[ |vd>[(link-reveal: "Hit Kelliri ")[ (hide:?md)(hide:?dd) (print: " You $wound Kelliri with your $weapon for **$finaldamage** damage! ") (set: $kellirihp to it - $finaldamage)(rerun:?foehp) (if: $kellirihp <= 0)[ (display:"kelliri_death") (if: $foes < 1)[ (link:"Victory!")[ (display: "victory") (show:?aftermath)]]]]]]] ]]] |aftermath)[ (display: "ration_elf") (display: "ration_human") (display: "ration_human") If you defeat all three, you gain (text-color: #ada06c)[**2 PLUCK**] for your impressive victory. You collect **two portions of ELF** and **four portions of HUMAN** to add to your rations. You would have claimed Vess as well, but Webby has captured her body and wrapped her up near the ceiling. *Mark ''BOLD'' on your sheet.* If you are **GRUMPY**, mark **MIGHTY** on your sheet and turn to (link: "87")[(set: $mighty to true)(goto: "87")]. If not, turn to [[137]]. ] }

(align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color: #c2ac65)[**180**]]