<<if $calldragon == "no">>As you make your way inside, you quickly light a torch so you can see the path ahead. The high, echoey ceilings promise a deep road before you. Your ears only detect the faint sounds of the stalagtites dripping, and the occasional crackle of your torch.\n\nThe cave is made up of shiny black rock, some covered with a layer of moss. You must be careful as you creep forward to avoid slipping.\n\nAfter several minutes of nothing but rock, you finally see a bend up ahead. There is a faint glow coming from around the corner.\n\n'This must be it,' you think to yourself as you draw your sword. It's time to enter the [[monster's lair!|Boss Room]]<<else>>As you make your way inside, you stop for a moment to try and light your torch.\n\n"Here, let me get that for you," the dragon offers.\n\nYou barely have time to hold the torch away from yourself before the dragon blows a stream of fire at it. It lights with no problem.\n\nYou scowl at the dragon for almost roasting you. "Gee thanks," you tell him sarcastically.\n\n"My pleasure," he replies with a toothy grin. Oh well, at least you can see now.\n\nThe high, echoey ceilings promise a deep road before you, and luckily, plenty of room for the dragon. Your ears detect the faint sounds of the stalagtites dripping, and the occasional crackle of your torch. Once you begin moving forward, however, the unmistakable scraping sound of your dragon friend behind you drowns out all else.\n\nThe cave is made up of shiny black rock, some covered with a layer of moss. You must be careful as you creep forward to avoid slipping. The dragon seems to have no problem. Claws must be very useful.\n\nAfter several minutes of nothing but rock, you finally see a bend up ahead. There is a faint glow coming from around the corner.\n\n'This must be it,' you think to yourself as you draw your sword. It's time to enter the monster's lair!\n\nHowever, before you get the chance, the dragon stops you by placing his leg in front of you, blocking your path. If there is a monster in there, then it could be very dangerous. And since he knows how weak you are, he insists on entering first.\n\nYou don't appreciate being called weak, but you suppose since you have no experience, it may be a good idea to let him lead. So you resign to follow him [[inside|Boss Room]].<<endif>>

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When you pass through the trees and into the clearning, the thick foliage causes the area to be cast in a deep shadow. It gives off a sense of foreboding.\n\n<<if $metdragon == "no">><<if $foundgem == "no">>As you move deeper into the clearing, you can see the mouth of a large, dark cave up ahead. You slowly ventured closer to the cave to try and see what's inside, but on your way, you hear a sudden *snap* as you break a twig beneath your foot.\n\nYou hear a rustling and scraping sound coming from inside the cave, as the twig snapping has alerted whatever is inside to your presence. Suddenly a scary-looking dragon, big as a house, comes lumbering towards you!\n\nAt this point it seems as though you only have two options. You can either try to [[fight|Dragon Fight]] the dragon, or you could [[flee|Open Road]] and live to see another day!<<else>>As you move deeper into the clearing, you can see the mouth of a large, dark cave up ahead. You slowly ventured closer to the cave to try and see what's inside, but on your way, you hear a sudden *snap* as you break a twig beneath your foot.\n\nYou hear a rustling and scraping sound coming from inside the cave, as the twig snapping has alerted whatever is inside to your presence. Suddenly a scary-looking dragon, big as a house, comes lumbering towards you!\n\nYou have heard that dragons are very partial to gold and jewels. Perhaps offering him that [[gemstone|Dragon Gem]] you found earlier might appease him? Your other options are to [[fight|Dragon Fight]] or attempt to [[flee|Open Road]].<<endif>><<else>>The Dragon's cave lies on the far side of the clearing. He doesn't appear to have much interest in you since you've appeased him. There seems to be nothing else to do here, you might as well [[head back|Open Road]].<<endif>>

However, before you are able to search around, you hear a disturbing clacking sound from behind. You quickly flip around to find the skeleton looming over you!\n\nYou realize with dismay that the skeleton is, in fact, the monster! His eyes glow menacingly with some kind of dark magic that is allowing him to move. He has his sword raised above his head, ready to strike you down!\n\nYou quickly raise your own sword in an attempt to block the attack. His sword glances off yours. Unfortunately the skeleton is very strong. The blow from his sword causes you to lose grip on yours. You look on in shock as it flys away from you across the room.\n\nAll you have now is your torch. You wildly wave it a the monster in a panic. Surprisingly, it takes a step back. It seems the creature does not like fire. So you lunge at it with the torch, but this time it is ready for you, blocking the blow with it's shield. The torch is then knocked from your hand as well, and it sputters out on the stone floor.\n\nThe only light that's left is now the small glow from behind the throne. You look on in horror as the skeleton advances on you. It's too bad you don't have a way to generate a more powerful flame.\n\nNow you'll never know what was in the chest, what that glow was from behind the throne, or even how those crop seeds would have done for next year's harvest.\n\nPerhaps being and Adventurer isn't all it's cracked up to be!\n\n<html><br></html>''The End''

<<if $spokewithfather == "no">>Your father greets you as he does every morning. However today, there is something more than usual that he has to say to you.<html><br></html>\n"I have an extra job for you today if you think you're up to it. I need to have a package delievered to the next town, but I'm too busy with work here. Would you like to take it for me?" he askes.<html><br></html>\nYou are skeptical at first. "You've always told me that I was too young to venture outside the village," you remind him.<html><br></html>\n"I think we both know those days are long past us. I believe you are responsible enough now to handle this job," he tells you with a smile as he hands you the parcel.<html><br></html>\nYour eyes glow with anticipation as you take the parcel from him. Finally! This is your chance for some excitment, and an opportunty to see what lies beyond your small town!<html><br></html>\nWith package in hand you turn away from your father back towards [[the room|Home]].<html><br></html>\n"You may want to get some [[proper clothes|Bedroom]] on before you head out though," he reminds you.<<set $spokewithfather = "yes">><<set $receivedparcel = "yes">><<else>><<display Idle Father>><<endif>>

<<if $spokewithfather == "no">>You enter the main room of your house to see your father tinkering with something at the table. You know he usually likes to [[speak to you|Father]] before you start on your chores.\n\nThe front door of your house leading [[outside|Town]] is to your right.<<else>>You enter the main room of your house to see your [[father|Father]] continuing with his tinkering.\n\nThe front door of your house leading [[outside|Town]] is to your right. Your [[bedroom|Bedroom]] is behind you.<<endif>>

The chirping of birds and glow of the morning sun rouse you from your long night of sleep. You sit up in bed stretching and rubbing your eyes before taking a deep sigh. Another day of boring farm life.\n\nAfter another minute of sitting aimlessly, you decide it's time to [[get out of bed|Home]].\n\n<<silently>>\n<<set $spokewithfather = "no">>\n<<set $gottendressed = "no">>\n<<set $receivedparcel = "no">>\n<<set $receivedsword = "no">>\n<<set $receivedgoldcoin = "no">>\n<<set $sleepingpowder = "no">>\n<<set $powderused = "no">>\n<<set $menkilled = "no">>\n<<set $torch = "no">>\n<<set $foundgem = "no">>\n<<set $metdragon = "no">>\n<<set $deliveredparcel = "no">>\n<<set $bartender = "no">>\n<<set $metdwarf = "no">>\n<<set $calldragon = "no">>\n<<endsilently>>

<<if $receivedsword == "no">>You attempt to put up a fight against the Dragon. However, since you foolishly decided to go into battle without a weapon, it is not a very long fight. The Dragon makes quick work of you, gobbling you down whole!\n<html><br></html>Unfortunately, you're not going to be able to do much adventuring inside the belly of a Dragon. Sadly, it looks like your journey is over. . .\n\n<html><br></html>''The End''<<else>>You attempt to put up a fight against the Dragon, drawing your sword. However, you've never really learned much in the art of swordplay. You swing the sword around haphazardly in an attempt to intimidate the Dragon.\n\nThis does not work though, and the Dragon merely laughs at your feeble attempt. He makes quick work of you, gobbling you down whole!\n<html><br></html>Unfortunately, you're not going to be able to do much adventuring inside the belly of a Dragon. Sadly, it looks like your journey is over. . .\n\n<html><br></html>''The End''<<endif>>

As you enter the quaint, little store, the Shopkeeper looks up from what he's doing to greet you.\n\n<<if $gottendressed == "no">>"Aren't you a little under-dressed to be out shopping?" he teases you.<html><br></html>\nYou look down at the sleeping clothes you're still wearing. Perhaps he's right, you should probably return home to get dressed. You turn around and exit the shop.<html><br></html>\n\n<<display Town>><<else>>You ask the Shopkeeper if he has received anything new recently. He proudly displays his wares for you.<html><br></html>\nFrom what you can see, you don't notice anything different from the usual types of food and equipment he typically stocks. Except for a [[large bag|Sleep Powder]] with a silvery kind of dust inside.<html><br></html>\nThe [[door|Town]] to the outside is behind you.<<endif>>

You change out of your sleeping clothes and into a normal everyday garment. You should be good to go for the day.<<set $gottendressed = "yes">>\n\n[[Head back.|Home]]

<<if $calldragon == "no">>You begin to fumble around in the grass, seeing if there are any remants of past explorers that could be useful.\n\nYour hand bumps into something solid, and you quickly dig it out to find a slightly used torch. It appears as though it could still burn for quite some time.\n\n'This is perfect,' you think as you tuck it into your belt. Now you should be able to see just fine.<<set $torch = "yes">>\n\nTime to head back over to the [[cave|Cave Mouth]].<<else>>You begin to fumble around in the grass, seeing if there are any remants of past explorers that could be useful.\n\nYour hand bumps into something solid, and you quickly dig it out to find a slightly used torch. It appears as though it could still burn for quite some time.\n\n'This is perfect,' you think as you tuck it into your belt. Now you should be able to see just fine.<<set $torch = "yes">>\n\nTime to head into the [[cave|Dungeon]].<<endif>>

You approach the sleeping Dwarf to see that he looks injured and very dirty. He is snoring loudly.\n\n<<if $metdwarf == "no">><<if $bartender == "no">>He appears to be in a very deep slumber, and looks like he needs the rest. You have no reason to disturb him, so you should probably [[leave him alone|Tavern]].<<else>>You gently shake him awake so that you may speak to him.\n\nHe grunts and comes to, glaring around angerly in an attempt to find whoever disturbed his sleep. Finally his gaze rests on you, his half-lidded eyes squinting in an attempt to focus.\n\n"Eh? Wha-da you want? Don't you know it's rude to disturb a man while he's sleeping?" he grumbles out.\n\nNow that he's awake, you can ask him about the [[monster|Advice]] in the cave, or you can choose to let him go back to [[sleep|Tavern]].<<endif>><<else>>You've already gotten all the information you can from the Dwarf. It would be best to just let him be.\n\nThe door to the [[exit|Village]] lays behind you.<<endif>>

However, before you are able to search around, you hear a disturbing clacking sound from behind. You quickly flip around to find the skeleton looming over you!\n\nYou realize with dismay that the skeleton is, in fact, the monster! His eyes glow menacingly with some kind of dark magic that is allowing him to move. He has his sword raised above his head, ready to strike you down!\n\nFortunately for you, you are not alone!\n\nYour dragon friend isn't about to let some skeleton monster harm you! He rears back with a mighty roar, getting the creature's attention, and allowing you to scramble away. He then let's loose with a powerful breath of flame!\n\nThe skeleton didn't even know what hit him. His bony jaw dropped a mere second before he was consumed by the fire, magical headdress and all! His sword and shield clattered to the ground, and all that was left of him was a pile of ash.\n\nYou take a second to breathe before looking up at your dragon friend. "Thank you," you tell him sincerely.\n\n"You're welcome," he replies. "Have to say, that 'monster' was none too impressive. Now let's see to that [[chest.|Victory]]"

<<if $deliveredparcel == "no">>You approach the Store Owner to gain his attention, and he smiles and greets you warmly.\n\n"Greetings, how can I be of service?" he askes.\n\n"I am here to make a delivery from the next town over," you explain to him, and pull the parcel out of your pack, holding it out for him.\n\n"Yes, very good. I have been expecting this for some time!" he tells you excitedly, gently lifting the package out of your hands. "And as agreed, here is the payment." He then hands you a small satchel with a smile.\n\nYou peer inside to see what it contains. It appears to be some kind of seeds. Perhaps these are the rare, fast growing crop seeds that Father had spoken to you about? He will be very happy to receive them. If they work, next year's harvest will be bountiful indeed!\n\nYou thank the nice man and [[head back out|Village]]. There's nothing else for you to do here.<<set $deliveredparcel = "yes">><<else>>You approach the Store Owner to gain his attention, and he smiles and greets you warmly.\n\n"Was there something else I can do for you? he askes.\n\nYou shake your head no and tell him you're just brousing. There really is nothing else of interest here. The door to the [[exit|Village]] stands behind you.<<endif>>

You apologize for disturbing him, but then explain that you heard about his story regarding the monster outside of town. You were hoping he'd be able to tell you more.\n\n"So, you believe me, do you?" he asks incredulously.\n\nYou nod vigorously, trying to prove that you do.\n\n"Bout near killed me, that creature," he said with a far-off look in his eye. "But I tell ya, monster like that must be there for a reason."\n\nYou lean in closer, eagerly awaiting what's going to come next.\n\n"Nobody in this rotten town believes me, but it's guarding somethin', I tell ya. It's guarding somethin' valuable! No other reason for it. If only I could figure out a way to. . ." He drifted off, back to sleep again before he could finish.\n\nYou try and shake him awake again, wanting to get more details about what kind of monster. Unfortunately he refuses to wake up. Guess that's all of the information your going to get.<<set $metdwarf = "yes">>\n\nNot much else of interest here. You might as well [[head back out|Village]].

This path leads out of the Village and into the unknown.\n\n<<if $metdwarf == "no">><<if $deliveredparcel == "no">>You came to this village with a specific job to do. You should probably complete your task before you go off exploring for no reason.\n\n[[Go Back|Village]]<<else>>The idea of exploring what lies beyond feels very exciting. Unfortunately, you really have no reason to be venturing forward. Maybe you should head back for some information or advice before galavanting off to who knows where.\n\n[[Go Back|Village]]<<endif>><<else>>The road ahead may be treacherous and wrought with danger, but it also holds the promise of an even greater adventure. If you are feeling brave enough, you can [[venture forth|Cave Mouth]]. Otherwise, the safety of the [[village|Village]] still lies behind you.<<endif>>

<<if $calldragon == "no">>When you turn the corner, the first thing that meets your eyes is a large throne at the back of the room. The light that you saw is glowing from behind it. On closer inspection you see that there is something, or someone, sitting on the throne.\n\nYour breath catches in your throat when you realize what it is: A large, and scary looking skeleton!\n\nIn one hand, it is holding a sword of it's own, in the other, it is gripping a shield, and on it's head rests some kind of headdress. Sitting to it's right, is an old, important looking chest.\n\nThe Treasure!\n\nWhile that skeleton looks scary, you've come too far to turn back now, and with no sign of any 'monsters' in sight, you sneak your way over to the chest.\n\nYou get up close and kneel down in front of it, but then are dismayed to find that the chest is locked. Perhaps there is a [[key nearby?|Defeat]]<<else>>"Hmmm," you hear the dragon mutter ahead of you. So you peek around him to see inside.\n\nThe first thing that meets your eyes is a large throne at the back of the room. The light that you saw is glowing from behind it. On closer inspection you see that there is something, or someone, sitting on the throne.\n\nYour breath catches in your throat when you realize what it is: A large, and scary looking skeleton!\n\nIn one hand, it is holding a sword of it's own, in the other, it is gripping a shield, and on it's head rests some kind of headdress. Sitting to it's right, is an old, important looking chest.\n\nThe Treasure!\n\n"That must be it!" You tell the dragon, pointing at the chest.\n\n"Yes, but where is this so-called 'monster'?" The dragon wonders.\n\n"Maybe if we're quick, we can grab the treasure and get out before it knows we're here," you reason, making your way over to the chest.\n\nYou get up close and kneel down in front of it, but then are dismayed to find that the chest is locked. Perhaps there is a [[key nearby?|Boss Fight]]<<endif>>

Inside the dimly lit home of the Blacksmith, you find that it is mostly full of tools. Equipment such as shovels, hoes, plows, and hammers line the walls in a haphazard manner, making it hard to miss that this was a farming community.\n\nHowever, off to the side and hanging on display were the few weapons the Blacksmith had crafted. You select a sword that looks like a good lenght and is not too heavy for you and strap it to your back.<<set $receivedsword = "yes">>\n\nThere is nothing else for you to do here. You should head [[out|Town]].

The Grand Adventure

<<if $menkilled =="no">><<if $powderused == "no">>As you continue along the path, you suddenly come across a group of men standing around aimlessly beside the road. These men don't look very friendly. However, you need to get by them if you ever hope to reach the next town.\n\nYou could try taking your chances and just [[stroll past|Bold Path]] them and hope that they leave you be. Or, you could attempt to [[sneak past|Stealth Path]] them. The [[path behind you|Open Road]] still remains open and clear.<<else>>The men that you used the powder on are still sprawled out on the ground, out cold. It would seem that the sleeping powder is very potent!\n\nFrom here you can go to the neighboring [[village|Village]], or head back towards your own [[town|Open Road]].<<endif>><<else>>The only thing left of the blaggards from the road is some armor and a few pieces of equipment. It's a very good thing to have friends in high places!\n\nFrom here you can go to the neighboring [[village|Village]], or head back towards your own [[town|Open Road]].<<endif>>

This is the path that leads out of your village. It causes you feel both excited and nervous. Who knows what you will find on the road ahead?\n\n<<if $gottendressed == "no">><<if $receivedparcel == "no">>Unfortunately, you don't have any reason to leave. Not to mention an overwhelming lack of permission from your father. You should probably be [[heading back|Town]] to do your chores.<<else>>However, still being in your sleep clothes, you don't really feel prepared to be heading out into the wide world. Maybe you should head back and get some [[proper clothes|Town]] on first.<<endif>><<else>>Eventually you come to a fork in the road that leads in three branching paths. The path to your left leads to a [[thicket|Thicket]]. To your right, there appears to be forested area with a [[clearing|Clearing]] in the trees. And if you [[continue forward|Bandit Area]] along the path, it will in time lead you to the next village, where you are supposed to be delivering your package.<html><br></html>\nFinally, if you do not feel like you are fully prepared, you can always [[head home|Town]] first.<<endif>>

You decide to just continue on your way, trying very hard not to make eye contact with the unruly looking bunch. However you are quickly halted by several of the men. One of them blocks your path, while two others grab ahold of you from each side.\n\n"And just where are you heading to in such a hurry?" the one who first stopped you asks with an evil looking grin. "Don't you know that it's rude to pass by people without so much as a nod?" he scolds.\n\n"Please sir, I'm just trying to make a delivery to the village at the end of this road," you say, attempting to persuade him to allow you to pass.\n\n"Oh? I don't think so! In fact, I think you will make a fine addition to our - bounty. A strong-looking youth like you will fetch a high price, I'm sure!" he tells you greedily. The two men holding you begin to pull you into the forest.\n\n<<if $metdragon == "no">>You attempt to struggle out of their grip, but it is no use. These men are far too strong! You begin to panic, and cry out for help to anyone who might hear, but you are too far away from either village for anyone to notice. So you have no choice but to let them drag you [[away|Captured]].<<else>>You attempt to struggle out of their grip, but it is no use. The men holding you are far too strong! You begin to panic, and cry out for help to anyone who might hear. Thankfully, your plea is answered by a powerful flapping of wings!\n\nThe men stop and look around, attempting to discover the source of the sound. The leader of the group finally looks up, but by then it's too late for him. He lets out a yell as your dragon friend pounces on him with a crunch. It only takes about two bites, and then the evil man is no more.\n\nThe other men drop you and draw their weapons. They try to fight off the dragon, but end up faring no better than their leader. The last man left realizes he has no chance and decides to make a run for it. Screaming and flailing, he disappears into the forest.\n\nOnce that's over, the dragon turns to look at you.\n\n"You seem to have a knack for getting into trouble," he jokes. "However, you do make for excellent bait," he decides as he digs through the men's belonging, taking anything of value.\n\nYou attempt to protest, but he cuts you off before you have the chance.\n\n"Feel free to call again if you stumble into any other profitable situations," he says before taking off once again with his fresh armload of new swag.\n\nOh well, at least you didn't get taken away by those men, or worse! The area should be safe for now, but it wouldn't be a good idea to remain for long. Better head on into the next [[town|Village]].<<set $menkilled = "yes">><<endif>>

The village you have lived in all your life is a relatively small and simple place consisting mostly of other farming families like yours.\n\nThe only real places of interest in town are the [[Blacksmith]], the small [[store|Store]], old lady [[Gretta's home|Gretta]], and your [[house|Home]] of course.\n\nTo the north leads to the [[path out of the village|Open Road]].

The inside of this shop reminds you a little of the one back home, if a bit larger. They seem to stock similar items, but also some exciting new things. It's too bad you don't have any more money.\n\nYou can eiher go talk to the [[man|Store Owner]] at the counter, or the door to the [[exit|Village]] stands behind you.

<<if $bartender == "no">>You approach the Bartender to find out who the Dwarf is, and why he's making the Bartender so nervous.\n\n"Don't know who he is," the Bartender tells you. "All I know is he came in a little while ago looking pretty banged up, and saying something about a monster in the cave just outside of town. Now I don't know nothin' about any monsters, but folks in this town know better than to go near that cave. It's pitch dark and very dangerous in there."\n\n"What kind of monster?" You ask.\n\nThe Bartender just shruggs. "Never heard of any monsters 'round here before. If you wanna know more, I guess you'll have to ask the Dwarf yourself. Wouldn't advise it though."\n\n"Why not?" You wonder.\n\n"Well, you know what they say about Dwarves," he mumbles, casting another anxious glance in the Dwarf's direction before shuffling away.\n\nApparently, Dwarves are very upsetting.<<set $bartender = "yes">>\n\n\nYou, on the other hand, have no idea what 'they' say about Dwarves. You can either go try and [[speak|Dwarf]] with him, or the door to the [[outside|Village]] stands open.<<else>>The Bartender appears to be busy with someone else.\n\nThe [[Dwarf|Dwarf]] is sleeping in the corner, and the door to the [[exit|Village]] stands open.<<endif>>

<<if $metdwarf == "no">><<if $deliveredparcel == "no">>You stand in the entrance of the small Tavern to see if there's anything interesting happening inside. There are a few people milling about, enjoying drinks and each other's company.\n\nThere's really no reason for you to be here at the moment. Perhaps you should finish the job you came here to do?<<else>>You stand in the entrance of the small Tavern to see if there's anything interesting happening inside. There are a few people milling about, enjoying drinks and each other's company.\n\nTo your left stands the [[Bartender|Bartender]] behind his bar, busily wiping out glasses. To your right there is what appears to be a [[Dwarf|Dwarf]] sleeping in a chair in the corner of the Tavern. The Bartender seems to keep nervously glancing in his direction.<<endif>><<else>>Inside the Tavern there are a few people milling about, enjoying drinks and each other's company. The [[Bartender|Bartender]] is keeping busy while still casting quick glances in the [[Dwarf's|Dwarf]] direction. After all, Dwarves are very upsetting!<<endif>>\n\nThe [[door behind you|Village]] leads back outside.

This new village seems to be just a bit larger than the one you call home. People bustle back and forth going about their daily lives, and don't take much notice of you.\n\nAhead you can see the [[general store|Shop]] where you're supposed to deliver your parcel. There is also a [[tavern|Tavern]] to your left, which is usually a good place to pick up information. The road continues on [[ahead|Dungeon Road]] of you out of the village, as well as behind back the [[way you came|Bandit Area]].

With all of the thorny vines out of the way, you can now see that the sparkly object is a ruby red gemstone, shining in the sunlight.\n\nYou aren't sure how it got there, but it seems like a waste to leave something so pretty just lying on the ground. So you decide to take it with you.<<set $foundgem = "yes">>\n\n[[Head Back|Open Road]]

You ask Gretta if there's anything you can help her with today. This causes her to smile.\n\n"Why yes, I do have a chore that needs tending. If you would be so kind as to pull all the weeds from around my garden, I'd be happy to reward you with a gold coin," she explains.\n\n[[Accept the job|Reward]].\n\n[[Decline her offer and leave|Town]].

You find old lady Gretta sitting in her rocking chair in front of her home. She is busy knitting, which is her favorite hobby.\n\n"Hello dearie," she croaks out her usual greeting. "Is there something I can do for you?" she asks.\n\n<<if $receivedgoldcoin == "no">><<if $gottendressed == "no">>Gretta usually will offer a reward in exchange for doing some sort of odd job. However you aren't exactly dressed for work. You should come back later when you're prepared.\n\n<html><br></html><<display Town>><<else>>You can ask Gretta if there's anything she needs help with. She will usually offer a [[reward|Odd Job]], or you can politely [[take your leave|Town]].<<endif>><<else>>There is nothing else you need from her. You should probably [[get back to it|Town]].<<endif>>

The dragon then lumbers over to the locked chest, and with a quick flick of his claws, snaps the lock apart. You open the lid, and inside is a sparkling pile of gold and gemstones. A perfect prize for any adventurer - you suppose.\n\n"Excellent! This will add nicely to my horde," the dragon says happily.\n\nHowever, you can't help but wonder what the glowing is that's coming from behind the throne. So you wander over to take a look.\n\nStanding upright, in a stone pedestal, looks to be some kind of magic staff. There is also a scroll tied to it.\n\nAs soon as you pick up the staff, the glowing stops. You open up the scroll to read what it says.\n\n--To anyone worthy enough to defeat my monster, I leave to you my riches and my power. Take this apprentice staff and learn the ways of magic if you so wish. Good luck my friend!--\n\nAlong with the message, there were instructions on how to work the staff and cast spells. Now this, this is a prize far greater than any amount of gold or jewels! It doesn't promise just riches, but opportunity! With this, you may be able to journey even farther on more wonderful adventures!\n\nHowever, when you come back around from behind the throne, the dragon sees you with the pretty, metal staff with the large gemstone resting atop it. He eyes it greedily.\n\n"And what else did you find?" he asks you.\n\nYou clutch the staff to your chest, and wonder how you'll ever manage to keep it, until a thought occurs to you. You decide to propose a deal to the dragon.\n\n"Since I'm the one who discovered this place, I'm entitled to at least half the treasure," you reason. "But, if you consent to letting me keep at least this," you gesture the staff and scroll at him, "then I will agree to let you keep everything that is in the chest. Does that sound fair?"\n\nThe dragon ponders this for moment, but then ultimately agrees that the deal is fair. "What is one additional trinket? Besides, not like I could do much with a magical artifact anyway." And with that, he plucks up the chest and heads for the exit with you following close behind.\n\nYou exit the cave, excited to get home to begin practicing with your new discovery. Not only that, you also realize you've learned a valuable lesson as well. It is dangerous to go alone. Having friends along not only makes for safer journeying, it also makes it much more fun!\n\n<html><br></html>''Congradulations! A Winner is You!''

You attempt to creep past them, trying very hard not to make a sound. Unfortunately, this area is littered with loose stones and your foot accidently bumps into one. It makes a clattering sound, drawing the men's attention to you.\n\n"Hey, what was that?" You hear one of them ask, and they all start heading in your direction!\n\n<<if $sleepingpowder == "no">>You have to think of something fast or they'll catch you! You may be far enough along that if you get up and run, you may be able to make it to the next town. It is the only thing you can think of, so you might as well try.\n\nYou leap up and make a mad dash towards the road. However, it was to no avail, the men are faster than they looked. They quickly catch you and drag you back to their leader. You try to wriggle away, but that is also no use. The men are much stronger than you as well.\n\n"Well what do we have here?" he askes tauntingly. "You have to be much more skilled than that to get past us!" he lectures.\n\n"Please sir, I'm just trying to make a delivery to the village at the end of this road," you say, attempting to persuade him to allow you to pass.\n\n"Oh? I don't think so! In fact, I think you will make a fine addition to our - bounty. A strong-looking youth like you will fetch a high price, I'm sure!" he tells you greedily. The two men holding you pull you into the [[forest|Captured]].<<else>>You have to think of something fast or they'll catch you! You may be far enough along that if you get up and run, you may be able to make it to the next town.\n\nHowever, you also remember the small sack of sleeping powder hanging by your waist. This would be the perfect time to test it. It may be your only chance! So you open the top of the pouch and launch it into the middle of the group of men.\n\nThe fine powder erupts into a cloud of dust, enveloping the area. You back away quickly to avoid inhaling any of it. The men on the path weren't so lucky though, and you can hear them coughing and stumbling around.\n\nAfter another minute, everything grew quiet. It seems as though the powder has worked! Once the dust settles, you carefully sneak back over just to be safe. Sure enough, the men are now all sprawled out along the road, now sleeping soundly thanks to breathing so much dust.\n\nThe area should be safe for now, but it wouldn't be a good idea to remain for long. Better head on into the next [[town|Village]].<<set $powderused = "yes">><<endif>>

You take a couple of handfuls of the powder and pour it into a pouch, being very careful not to get any near your face. Then you hand the Shopkeeper the gold coin as payment.\n\nHe thanks you and pockets the coin.<<set $sleepingpowder = "yes">>\n\n"Now don't be doing anything mischievous with that powder, you here?" he warns you.\n\nYou assure him that you won't and proceed to [[exit|Town]] the store.

When you venture over towards the Blacksmith's, you are greeted by the rhythmic tinking sound of his hammer hitting steel. He is busy at work repairing horseshoes.\n\n<<if $receivedsword == "no">><<if $gottendressed == "no">>You get his attention when you walk over to him, and he looks up at you. You attempt to talk to him about your desire to leave the village, but this just causes him to laugh.<html><br></html>\n"You don't look like you're ready for an adventure. You look like you're ready for bed! Come talk to me again when you've properly dressed yourself," he tell you, shaking his head with a grin.<html><br></html>\nYou go red in the face and shamefully [[skulk away|Town]].<<else>>You get his attention when you walk over to him, and he looks up at you. You excitedly tell him about the job your father just gave you, and ask him if he has any advice.<html><br></html>\n"My advice is: that you shouldn't be going anywhere without a weapon to protect yourself. If you'd like, you are welcome to borrow one of my swords. Just head [[inside|Blacksmith House]] and pick whichever one suits you best," he generously offers.<<endif>><<else>>You get his attention when you walk over to him, and he looks up at you. He then wishes you luck on your journey and goes back to work. Nothing else to do here, you should probably [[get back at it|Town]].<<endif>>

After you finish clearing out all the weeds, you go back to Gretta to let her know.\n\n"Thank you so much! It's so nice to have such helpful young people living nearby. And as I promised, here is your reward," she tells you and places a shiny gold coin in your hand.<<set $receivedgoldcoin = "yes">>\n\nThere's nothing else for you to do here today. [[Time to go|Town]].

<<if $sleepingpowder == "no">><<if $receivedgoldcoin == "no">>The Shopkeeper explains to you that the dust is a sleeping powder he recently aquired. It seems like something that could be very useful. Unfortunately since you have no money, you have no means of aquiring it.\n\nThere's nothing else of use here. [[Exit store|Town]].<<else>>The Shopkeeper explains to you that the dust is a sleeping powder he recently aquired. You simply throw some in your enemy's face to instantly put them to sleep. You could give him the gold coin you earned from Gretta to [[purchase some|Buy Powder]].\n\nThe light of the [[exit|Town]] is behind you.<<endif>><<else>>The Shopkeeper explains to you that the dust is a sleeping powder he recently aquired.\n\nYou don't really need more, so you [[take your leave|Town]].<<endif>>

<<if $metdragon == "no">><<if $torch == "no">>Journeying along the road, you eventually come across the mouth of the cave that the members in the town spoke about.\n\nIt's very dark and forboding. When you peer inside, you see nothing but blackness. That bartender had been right. There's no way of going forward unless you can find some kind of light source.\n\nAs luck would have it, there happens to be a grassy area to your left. You could [[explore it|Grass]] to see if you can find anything useful.<<else>>The mouth of the cave stands before you, dark and forboding. You have the torch with you now, so at least you'll be able to see if you decide to [[head inside|Dungeon]].<<endif>><<else>>Journeying along the road, you eventually come across the mouth of the cave that the members in the town spoke about. It's very dark and forboding. When you peer inside, you see nothing but blackness.\n\nYou feel slightly apprehensive about going in alone, before you quickly remember your new dragon friend. He may be interested in accompying you with the possible promise of more treasure in it for him. You could [[call out|Dragon Call]] for him to see, or if you're feeling greedy and don't want to share, you can [[go at it alone|Dungeon]].<<endif>>\n\nAs always, the [[way back|Village]] is still open behind you.

You humbly lift up the sparkling stone, offering it to him in exchange for mercy. The Dragon considers you for a moment before responding.\n\n"You know, I could simply kill you and take that gem anyway? But, if you hadn't shown it to me, I would never have known you had it. I would have eaten you, and the stone would have been lost forever. Therefore, I will accept your offer. Besides, you hardly seem worth the trouble," he tells you, before promptly plucking the stone out of your outstretched hand. He then retreats back into his cave with his new treasure.<<set $metdragon = "yes">>\n\nYou breathe a sigh of relief at having survived that encounter, but it would be unwise to continue to dally here. [[Time to go|Open Road]].

<<if $gottendressed == "no">>This is the room in which you sleep. There isn't much to it besides a simple bed and a small [[chest of drawers|Dresser]] in the corner.\n<html><br></html>[[Leave|Home]]<<else>>This is the room in which you sleep. There is nothing of interest here.\n<html><br></html>[[Leave|Home]]<<endif>>

MandyKat

As you approach the thicket, you can see right away that the brambles are covered in prickly thorns. However, on further inspection, you can clearly see something sparkly glinting just on the other side.\n\nNormally a thicket would be no trick, and you could simply push it aside with a stick. Unfortunately this thicket is particularly thick, and you'd get torn to shreds just attempting to get through.\n\n<<if $foundgem == "no">><<if $receivedsword == "no">>You're going to have to come back later when you have something to cut through it with.<html><br></html>\n[[Back to crossroads|Open Road]]<<else>>Lucky for you, you have the sword the Blacksmith let you borrow. You can simply use it to [[cut|Jewel]] away the brambles to see what's on the other side!<<endif>><<else>>There doesn't seem to be anything else of interest here.<html><br></html>\n[[Back to crossroads|Open Road]]<<endif>>

You yell out for the dragon, wondering if he's even going to be able to hear you from this far away. You wait for a moment, and when you hear nothing, you try calling again. After another minute when still nothing happens, you think that maybe you are too far out. Should you just try to brave the cave on your own?\n\nBut suddenly, there is a loud thud behind you. You whirl around to find your dragon friend towering behind you.\n\n"This had better be good, human," he tells you dangerously.\n\nYou quickly explain to him about the dwarf and the cave monster, and the treasure he is probably guarding. The dragon considers this for a moment.\n\n"This sounds as though it has potential. I suppose there is no harm in exploring." So he decides to follow you into the cave.\n\nThis is perfect! With your trusty dragon friend at your side, you feel as though nothing can stop you now!<<set $calldragon = "yes">>\n\n"But first we need to find something to light the way," he reminds you. "Try exploring that [[grassy area|Grass]] over there," he suggests.

They take you deep into the forest, your thrashing and protests making no difference. Eventually you get to their camp, and next to it is a cage sitting in a cart. This is where they toss you before hauling you away to who knows where, probably some far away land.\n\nYou grip the bars, staring glumly out at nothing. You weren't sure what to expect when you first left home on your adventure, but getting kidnapped and sold into slavery wasn't exactly how you pictured it ending.\n\n<html><br></html>''The End''

<<if $deliveredparcel == "no">>"Have you delivered the package yet?"<<else>>"Thank you for delivering that package for me. I have been looking forward to getting these seeds for a long time!"<<endif>>\n\nThe [[door outside|Town]] lies behind you.