// dlg.txt

begintalkscript;

variables;

short i;

begintalknode 1;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = get_sdf(158,3) == 0;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "You emerge into a huge gallery. It is a giant dome, with a ceiling arcing a hundred feet above you. Long, lovely strands of luminescent moss, some forty feet long, hang down from the rock above.";
	text2 = "The chamber is mostly occupied by a wide, squat tower. This is Patrick's Tower, one of the cores of magical learning in Avernum.";
	text3 = "Founded by the late Archmage Patrick, one of the first wizards to arrive in the underworld, it has lasted far longer without an explosive catastrophe than any similar outpost.";
	text4 = "Even from out here, you can sense the power humming within. This promises to be an excellent place to obtain magical supplies or instruction.";
	action = SET_SDF 158 3 1;

begintalknode 2;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = get_sdf(158,4) == 0;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "The central courtyard of Patrick's tower, once used for long, contemplative strolls by the wizards here, is now occupied by botanical research.";
	text2 = "There are several rows of mushrooms here, growing on moist, mossy expanses of gravel. At first, you think that they look healthy. It is only when you look closer that you see the tiny spots of Blight that are beginning to afflict them.";
	text3 = "There is obviously serious research going on here to develop a new food source for Avernum, and quickly. It has not yet succeeded.";
	action = SET_SDF 158 4 1;

begintalknode 3;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = get_sdf(158,5) == 0;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "This workshop is hot, cramped, and full of unpleasant smells. Boiling herbs, sulfur, smoke. (And a little blood?) The cages and manacles visible in every corner make you feel very nervous.";
	text2 = "You immediately wonder what sort of research is taking place here. It's not botany or anything comparably benign. It's dark magic, powerful and hard to restrain.";
	action = SET_SDF 158 5 1;

begintalknode 4;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = get_sdf(158,6) == 0;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "You enter a huge chamber, directly underneath Patrick's Tower. This is the heart of their botanical research. And it makes your mouth water.";
	text2 = "In the dim, green light, you can see many rows of mushrooms. Healthy mushrooms, of four different strains, kept down here painstakingly quarantined from the blight outside.";
	text3 = "But these marvelous fields of food are not unguarded. There is, indeed, some sort of infection here. There is a workshop and control center in the middle of the area. Some sort of shambling, vaguely humanoid mass is standing up there.";
	text4 = "It has, at its command, packs of slimy, nasty worms. They slither out into the fields of crops and then return. They're hideous, gassy little beasts.";
	text5 = "The shambling mass must be the foe you were sent to purge, so that the experiment can be completed. However, if you are unable to winnow away some of its worm guardians, attacking it would be extremely dangerous.";
	action = SET_SDF 158 6 1;

begintalknode 5;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "__";

begintalknode 6;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "__";

begintalknode 7;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "You get close enough to the infected creature to get a good look at it. It is, or recently was, human. Then some sort of fungus took him over.";
	text2 = "You wonder if, somewhere inside, traces of human intelligence might remain. Then he says, _Hhhrrrraauuuggh,_ and lunges at you. Apparently not.";
	text3 = "His skin is shot through with moss and fungus and covered with large pustules. As the beast lurches toward you, they pop, subjecting anyone nearby to hideous odors. You are soon desperate to keep a safe distance from the creature.";
	text4 = "The beast lets out a long, incoherent cry that echoes through the chamber. Any of his surviving worm servants are sure to have heard it.";
	code =
		sf(158,10,2);
	break;
	
begintalknode 8;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "As you fight the creature, the nearby slime pools begin to bubble and hiss. The wizards of Patrick's Tower infused the goo with magic, as part of their campaign to make new, Blight-resistant forms of the fungus.";
	text2 = "Unfortunately, the pools have become just as infected as the unfortunate parody of humanity lurching toward you.";

begintalknode 9;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "You deal a final blow to the fungal beast. The mold infecting its body was keeping it alive, but it still relied on its human organs. Once gone, the creature collapses to the ground.";
	text2 = "Moments later, the beast's flesh begins to liquefy. The less said about this, the better. You keep your distance.";
	text3 = "Now that the infection is purged, you are close to being able to complete Horyn's experiment.";

begintalknode 10;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "You detect a familiar, sour smell in the air. It is the smell of the Blight. You had grown completely used to it when out in the Great Cave. You hadn't noticed its absence, but it is down here now.";

begintalknode 11;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "The hissing noise stops. Soon, the results of the experiment will be clear.";

begintalknode 12;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "There is a motion in one of the nearby mushroom patches. One of the smaller fungi twitches. And then it shrivels. You move closer to take a look. It bears several small spots, the sign of the blight.";
	code = 
		set_floor(1,287,745,137);
	break;
		

begintalknode 13;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "All around you, more mushrooms begin to shrivel. Not all of them are infected. Yet. But some in every patch are infected. Soon, they will all show signs of the Blight.";
	text2 = "You hear a deep, clanging sound. Now that the experiment is complete, the locks on the gates are released. They begin to slowly open.";
	text3 = "You are now free to head back upstairs and deliver the unhappy news. The work will have to start again from the beginning.";
	code =
		sf(158,9,0);
		sf(158,21,1);
		set_floor(1,291,745,137);
		set_floor(1,277,736,137);
		set_floor(1,272,735,137);
		set_floor(1,271,741,137);
		set_floor(1,276,751,137);
		set_floor(1,278,752,137);
		set_floor(1,280,751,137);
		set_floor(1,282,753,137);
		set_floor(1,296,753,137);
		set_floor(1,301,753,137);
		set_floor(1,299,738,137);
		set_floor(1,301,739,137);
		set_floor(1,304,738,137);
		set_floor(1,306,739,137);
	break;
	
begintalknode 14;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "The fungal beast seems to have detected that someone is whittling away at its servants. It is almost mindless, but not completely.";
	text2 = "It lets out a long, mournful moan. Several of the pools begin to bubble, and fresh worms emerge. These are not content to merely slither around the cave, though. They go hunting for fresh meat.";

begintalknode 15;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "This hellhound is ready to dismantle anyone who sneaks in. Fortunately, you have permission to be here.";

begintalknode 16;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "This sentinel has been damaged. Its metal shell is cracked, and one of its crystalline eyes looks loose in the socket. Repairs are currently taking place.";

begintalknode 17;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "The obelisk says:";
	text2 = "  PATRICK'S TOWER";
	
begintalknode 18;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "The sign says:";
	text2 = "  FUNGAL QUARANTINE";
	text3 = "  Do not bring in outside fungus!";
	text4 = "  Do not eat experimental specimens!";
	

begintalknode 19;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "__";

begintalknode 20;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "Gladwell has a large collection of spellbooks, now spread throughout the tower. They are all marked on the cover with his symbol, a warning to all those who would steal his knowledge. Fortunately, he allowed you to enter here.";
	text2 = "The books describe techniques for calling magical energy from air, water, sky, or stone. No matter where you are, you can find something to use to zap people. (Your skill with the spell Lightning Spray increases.)";
	text3 = "You browse through the book a bit more, but you don't learn anything new.";
	text4 = "You browse through the book, but you can't understand any of it. You don't know enough magical lore. (Improve your Arcane Lore skill to understand books like these.)";
	code =
		if (gf(157,25) == 0) {
			rs(3);
			if (get_stat_total(13) < 6)
				rs(2);
				else {
					rs(4);
					sf(157,25,1);
					alter_stat(30000,50,2);
					}
			}
			else {
				rs(1); rs(2); rs(4);
				}
	break;

begintalknode 21;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "Gladwell has a large collection of spellbooks, now spread throughout the tower. They are all marked on the cover with his symbol, a warning to all those who would steal his knowledge. Fortunately, he allowed you to enter here.";
	text2 = "The books describes techniques for shattering magical barriers. This is very rare and valuable knowledge. (Your skill with the spell Dispel Barrier increases.)";
	text3 = "You browse through the book a bit more, but you don't learn anything new.";
	text4 = "You browse through the book, but you can't understand any of it. You don't know enough magical lore. (Improve your Arcane Lore skill to understand books like these.)";
	code =
		if (gf(157,26) == 0) {
			rs(3);
			if (get_stat_total(13) < 8)
				rs(2);
				else {
					rs(4);
					sf(157,26,1);
					alter_stat(30000,53,2);
					}
			}
			else {
				rs(1); rs(2); rs(4);
				}
	break;


begintalknode 22;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "Gladwell has a large collection of spellbooks, now spread throughout the tower. They are all marked on the cover with his symbol, a warning to all those who would steal his knowledge. Fortunately, he allowed you to enter here.";
	text2 = "The books describe techniques for absorbing and channeling the heat from air, water, sky, or stone. No matter where you are, you can find something to use to burn people. (Your skill with the spell Fireblast increases.)";
	text3 = "You browse through the book a bit more, but you don't learn anything new.";
	text4 = "You browse through the book, but you can't understand any of it. You don't know enough magical lore. (Improve your Arcane Lore skill to understand books like these.)";
	code =
		if (gf(157,27) == 0) {
			rs(3);
			if (get_stat_total(13) < 10)
				rs(2);
				else {
					rs(4);
					sf(157,27,1);
					alter_stat(30000,56,2);
					}
			}
			else {
				rs(1); rs(2); rs(4);
				}
	break;


begintalknode 23;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "Gladwell has a large collection of spellbooks, now spread throughout the tower. They are all marked on the cover with his symbol, a warning to all those who would steal his knowledge. Fortunately, he allowed you to enter here.";
	text2 = "The books describe how to create a cloak of energy around yourself, making your spells and prayers more powerful. (Your skill with the spell Cloak of the Arcane increases.)";
	text3 = "You browse through the book a bit more, but you don't learn anything new.";
	text4 = "You browse through the book, but you can't understand any of it. You don't know enough magical lore. (Improve your Arcane Lore skill to understand books like these.)";
	code =
		if (gf(157,28) == 0) {
			rs(3);
			if (get_stat_total(13) < 12)
				rs(2);
				else {
					rs(4);
					sf(157,28,1);
					alter_stat(30000,58,2);
					}
			}
			else {
				rs(1); rs(2); rs(4);
				}
	break;

begintalknode 24;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "Gladwell has a large collection of spellbooks, now spread throughout the tower. They are all marked on the cover with his symbol, a warning to all those who would steal his knowledge. Fortunately, he allowed you to enter here.";
	text2 = "The books describe how to create and fling a net of pure arcane energy, devastating your foes. (Your skill with the spell Arcane Blow increases.)";
	text3 = "You browse through the book a bit more, but you don't learn anything new.";
	text4 = "You browse through the book, but you can't understand any of it. You don't know enough magical lore. (Improve your Arcane Lore skill to understand books like these.)";
	code =
		if (gf(157,29) == 0) {
			rs(3);
			if (get_stat_total(13) < 13)
				rs(2);
				else {
					rs(4);
					sf(157,29,1);
					alter_stat(30000,59,2);
					}
			}
			else {
				rs(1); rs(2); rs(4);
				}
	break;
	

begintalknode 25;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "There is an old prayer book in this cavern, probably here to aid in the control and banishment of the wraith. It didn't help.";
	text2 = "As you flip through the ice-covered pages, however, you do find some interesting rituals for the pacification of your enemies. (Your skill with the spell Control Foe increases.)";
	text3 = "You browse through the book a bit more, but you don't learn anything new.";
	text4 = "You browse through the book, but you can't understand any of it. You don't know enough magical lore. (Improve your Arcane Lore skill to understand books like these.)";
	code =
		if (gf(157,23) == 0) {
			rs(3);
			if (get_stat_total(13) < 6)
				rs(2);
				else {
					rs(4);
					sf(157,23,1);
					alter_stat(30000,74,1);
					}
			}
			else {
				rs(1); rs(2); rs(4);
				}
	break;

begintalknode 26;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "Although this is a wizard's workshop, you are surprised to find a prayer book. Sorengard was probably looking through it for tidbits that would aid in his non-spiritual research.";
	text2 = "One chant does turn out to be very useful. You learn how you can focus your mental energy to create a shield that will protect you from extreme elements. (Your skill with the spell Ward of Elements increases.)";
	text3 = "You browse through the book a bit more, but you don't learn anything new.";
	text4 = "You browse through the book, but you can't understand any of it. You don't know enough magical lore. (Improve your Arcane Lore skill to understand books like these.)";
	code =
		if (gf(157,24) == 0) {
			rs(3);
			if (get_stat_total(13) < 9)
				rs(2);
				else {
					rs(4);
					sf(157,24,1);
					alter_stat(30000,75,1);
					}
			}
			else {
				rs(1); rs(2); rs(4);
				}
	break;	

begintalknode 27;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "The label inside the front cover indicates that this spell book once belonged to Patrick, creator of this tower. To flip through it is quite an honor.";
	text2 = "It is one of his lesser tomes, but you do learn some interesting things about the creation of acid. And how it can then be sprayed upon your foes. (Your skill with the spell Spray Acid increases.)";
	text3 = "You browse through the book a bit more, but you don't learn anything new.";
	text4 = "You browse through the book, but you can't understand any of it. You don't know enough magical lore. (Improve your Arcane Lore skill to understand books like these.)";
	code =
		if (gf(157,22) == 0) {
			rs(3);
			if (get_stat_total(13) < 6)
				rs(2);
				else {
					rs(4);
					sf(157,22,1);
					alter_stat(30000,47,1);
					}
			}
			else {
				rs(1); rs(2); rs(4);
				}
	break;		
//



//

begintalknode 30;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = 30;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Name";
	text1 = "There is a wheel here, with four thin chains wrapped around it. The chains run into the ground and, from there, to the four steel vats to the south. A small sign says, _SAMPLE RELEASE. Do not touch without Horyn's permission!_";
	text2 = "Since the fungal beast is still lurching around, this probably isn't a good time to tinker with the wheel.";
	text3 = "You still haven't cleared out the squatters Horyn told you about. You'd better not complete the experiment yet.";
	text4 = "At last, there seems to be nothing stopping you from completing the experiment.";
	text5 = "The wheel is locked into position, there is nothing else to do here.";
	code =
		clear_strings();
		as(1);
		if (gf(158,7) == 0)
			as(2);
			else if (gf(157,1) == 0)
				as(3);
				else if (gf(158,2) > 0)
					as(5);
					else as(4);
	break;
	
begintalknode 31;
	state = 30;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,7) > 0 && gf(157,1) > 0 && gf(158,2) == 0;
	question = "Turn the wheel.";
	text1 = "With great effort (and some scraping away of the mold in the gears), you manage to give the wheel a half turn. Then there is a grinding sound, and it will turn no more.";
	text2 = "That seemed to do the trick. The doors on the vats to the south have opened slightly. There is a slight hissing sound.";
	text3 = "Soon, you will see how successful the new strains of mushrooms are.";
	action = END_TALK;
	code = 
		sf(158,9,1);
		sf(158,2,1);
	break;
	
begintalknode 32;
	state = 30;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Leave the wheel alone.";
	text1 = "You back away. There's nothing to do here right now.";
	action = END_TALK;


	
// Solberg

begintalknode 50;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = 50;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Name";
	text1 = "You come face to face with a character out of the history books. The Archmage Solberg, one of the first wizards in Avernum. Few have fought harder or given more to protect and build Avernum, since long before you were born.";
	text2 = "And his age shows. The practice of magic has a tendency to lengthen the lives of its masters, but in Solberg the process is reaching its limits. He slouches in his throne like a life-size, withered doll.";
	text3 = "He looks up at you from the seat. He is small and frail, but his power radiates out of him. _Young soldiers. Young Avernites. From the Castle, perhaps? Come to assist? I am Archmage Solberg, the master of Patrick's Tower._";
	text4 = "_What do you need?_";
	text5 = "Solberg slumps in his throne, trying to remain still. You realize that movement might cause him pain. Despite this, he constantly looks around at the silent sentinels that guard this chamber.";
	text6 = "_What else do you need?_";
	action = INTRO;
	code =
		sf(158,14,1);
	break;
	
begintalknode 51;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = 51;
	condition = 1;
	question = "You are the master of the tower?";
	text1 = "_I am. Once, I would have thought it an honor to look after my friend's tower. Then I was master of it, and it bored me silly. And now ... I have been trapped here again. It is simply where I am warehoused._";
	text2 = "He is starting to ramble a little. You suspect that he would continue even if you left the room. _I returned from Tranquility thinking I could be of use. They nodded and smiled. And stuck me here._";
	
begintalknode 52;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = 53;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What research is happening here?";
	text1 = "_Important research. When I took over here, I redirected all of our efforts. Nothing risky, nothing esoteric. We must direct all of our energy to the service of Avernum._";
	text2 = "_We are trying to create a new, Blight-resistant mushroom. Work on my sentinels continues._";
	text3 = "He sighs. _And Gladwell does, well, whatever he does. As I warned would happen when he came._";
	
begintalknode 53;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Can you teach me any magic?";
	text1 = "_I do not teach. Have not for years. My time is too valuable. Speak with the others in the tower. Perhaps one of them will take the time to aid you._";
	
begintalknode 54;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,13) == 0;
	question = "I'd like to hear stories of Avernum's past.";
	text1 = "He snorts. _I am not some musty old scroll. I am not senile and useless, sitting around and telling stories of my past. There is a war, and I will be a part of it, as I have in every war before now._";
	text2 = "_You will not, if you are wise, treat me as an invalid again._";
	action = SET_SDF 158 13 1;
	
begintalknode 55;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(177,2) == 0 && gf(170,1) < 10;
	question = "Is there anything I can do to help you?";
	text1 = "_I am waiting for aid from the Castle._ He points at the insignia on your shoulder. _If you do not know why you are here, you should return to whoever is giving you orders. You are a soldier, after all._";
	
begintalknode 56;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = 56;
	condition = (gf(177,2) == 1 || gf(170,1) >= 10) && gf(158,2) == 0;
	question = "I have been sent from the Castle to aid you.";
	text1 = "Solberg nods. _It is about time. You are not here to help me, but to help Horyn. She is in the central courtyard. Help her to complete her experiment._";
	code =
		sf(158,18,1);
	break;
	
begintalknode 57;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = 58;
	condition = gf(158,2) > 0;
	question = "I have helped Horyn to complete her experiment.";
	text1 = "_I have already heard. And heard the result. Another failure. And so little time to spare._";
	text2 = "His gaze grows distant. _Yes. This was not unexpected. It is time. Is time._";
	code =
		if (gf(158,1) < 2)
			sf(158,1,1);
	break;
	
begintalknode 58;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = 60;
	condition = gf(158,1) > 0;
	question = "Is there anything else I can do for you?";
	text1 = "Solberg looks up at you as if he forgot that you were here. _You are still here? You don't have more orders? Well, it doesn't matter. It is time for me to go._";

begintalknode 59;
	state = 50;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "That is all I need to know.";
	text1 = "Solberg nods and closes his eyes. Raising his arm to wave you away would probably hurt too much.";
	action = END_TALK;

begintalknode 60;
	state = 51;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What was Tranquility?";
	text1 = "_An experiment. I tried to create a new land within Avernum, protected by my magical sentinels, which would be safe from invasion, raid, or demonic assault._";
	text2 = "_This experiment failed, and my land had to be evacuated when the Slith Horde struck. Still ..._ He nods toward one of the sentinels. _My sentinels still have uses, in limited roles._";

begintalknode 61;
	state = 51;
	nextstate = 52;
	condition = 1;
	question = "You don't want to be here?";
	text1 = "_Look at me. This flesh has little strength left, but I would use it fighting back the Slith Horde. Fighting for Avernum. But I am too old. Too erratic, they say. They do not trust me. But, one day, they will learn._";

begintalknode 62;
	state = 52;
	nextstate = 50;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Learn what?";
	text1 = "He smiles. _I am an Archmage. This gives me ..._ He gives a short, dry chuckle. You see a brief flash of life in his eyes. _Never mind. What else do you need to know?_";

begintalknode 63;
	state = 53;
	nextstate = 54;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Tell me about the mushrooms.";
	text1 = "In an instant, Solberg grows furious. He leans forward in his seat and instantly regrets it. Wincing, he says, _The flora of Avernum? We created it! The cavewood, the glowing fungus, the savory mushrooms, all of it._";
	text2 = "_Made by us to make life here livable. And now we will be defeated by a fungus? Never! We will do what we did before, but better! And we will find the source of the sabotage and have our vengeance!_";

begintalknode 64;
	state = 53;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What are the sentinels?";
	text1 = "_My creation. Like golems, but faster and more capable. But, sadly, still very stupid, and less stable._";
	text2 = "_Once, I overestimated their capabilities. They are very valuable in limited tasks. I am trying to expand their possible uses._";

begintalknode 65;
	state = 53;
	nextstate = 55;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Who is Gladwell?";
	text1 = "_A wizard from the northern tunnels. Powerful and mysterious. And selfish and untrustworthy. He came here when the Slith Horde seized all of the lands around his remote tower._";
	text2 = "_He does many services for us. Making wands and potions, and such, so the Crown lets him stay. But ..._ He shakes his head.";

begintalknode 66;
	state = 54;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Sabotage?";
	text1 = "_Some would say the rise of the Blight is a natural process, something that happens and would happen. I think not. So much of our work could not be undone by chance!_";
	text2 = "_Mark my words, someone is behind this. And I will find them._";

begintalknode 67;
	state = 55;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "But what?";
	text1 = "_Gladwell only cares for power. And for Gladwell. Beware him. He will offer you much, but he will make you pay for it._";

begintalknode 68;
	state = 56;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What sort of experiment?";
	text1 = "_You are going to help her to create a new sort of mushroom that can withstand the Blight. Something that can save Avernum. It is an honor to be given the task. Especially considering your obvious lack of experience._";
	text2 = "_Go speak with her. It is vital that you hurry._";
	action = END_TALK;
	
begintalknode 69;
	state = 58;
	nextstate = 50;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Time for what?";
	text1 = "He mutters, _Time to take action._ Solberg is barely paying attention to you now.";

begintalknode 70;
	state = 60;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Go? Go where?";
	text1 = "_My time dwindles. And I will not spend it here. I am an Archmage. I have power, and power demands to be used. If it is restrained for too long ..._ He shakes his head.";
	text2 = "_It is time. Time to act, to fight._ You try to ask what he means, but he waves you away. _I thank you for your aid. Leave me._";
	action = END_TALK;

//begintalknode 71;
//	state = 50;
//	nextstate = -1;
//	condition = 1;
//	question = "";
//	text1 = ".";
//	text2 = "";

// Gladwell

begintalknode 90;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = 90;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Name";
	text1 = "There is a lone wizard in this workshop, managing a dozen experiments and concoctions with almost obsessive focus. You watch him for several minutes, as he maneuvers them to points where they don't need his attention.";
	text2 = "Then, when you suspect that he hasn't noticed you, he turns and grins. A cold, unsettling smile. _Ahhhh ... A visitor. Welcome. I am Gladwell._ He looks you up and down, quietly evaluating your strengths and weaknesses.";
	text3 = "_You are young and inexperienced, I think, but you have potential as well. Much potential. Interesting._ A pot starts to bubble over. He turns to pull some firewood out from under it.";
	text5 = "Gladwell continues to work on his many experiments, making wands for the Avernite army, testing samples taken from diseased fungus, maintaining machinery of uncertain purpose.";
	text6 = "Talking to him is very slow because of all of the work he is trying to do, but you do manage to have a disjointed conversation.";
	action = INTRO;



begintalknode 91;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 91;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What sort of work are you doing here?";
	text1 = "_Anything that is asked of me. Anything that can help your nation. I do whatever is asked, in return for lodging here free from the distracting chaos of the north._";
	text2 = "_For example, I make wands and potions. Of the highest quality, not the dross made by Julz and her like._";

begintalknode 92;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,15) < 5;
	question = "What are all of these shackles and cages for?";
	text1 = "_They are for my work. Some of this work I do on behalf of your masters. Others for my own benefit. None of it is any of your business._";

begintalknode 93;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Can you teach me any magic?";
	text1 = "_I have access to deep stores of magical knowledge. Powerful spells. Rare and priceless tomes. I will make them available to those of value to me._";
	text2 = "_There is no charity here. Everything I do operates on the principle of fair exchange._";

begintalknode 94;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 92;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Where are you from?";
	text1 = "_My tower is in the Northern Isles, deep within the territory held by the Slith Horde. Their presence was a chaotic influence and made it difficult to do my work. So I came here._";
	text2 = "_Before I left, I placed powerful bonds on my tower. One day, if I can't find a better place to reside, I will return there._";

begintalknode 95;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 94;
	condition = gf(158,15) < 2;
	question = "What did you mean when you said that I have potential?";
	text1 = "_Few soldiers visit me. It is unfortunate. You have training. You can travel. You sometimes have time to perform tasks. You should know ... I can pay very well those who aid me._";
	text2 = "_I will give you tasks. They will be dangerous. You must perform them, in your spare time, quickly and properly. And, when you are successful, I will pay you very well._";
	text3 = "_I make this offer only rarely, but you have ... qualities. A spirit I have come to recognize. When you are interested, let me know._";
	
begintalknode 96;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 97;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 1 && gf(155,1) > 0;
	question = "I opened the cell above Fort Remote. And something tried to kill me!";
	text1 = "You tell Gladwell what happened. He nods. _Interesting. I had thought that this might happen. Of course, it was just as likely that those spirits would have fled without touching you. It does not matter._";

begintalknode 97;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 101;
	condition = gf(158,15) > 3;
	question = "What is your real goal?";
	text1 = "He grins. It is a different sort of smile for him, a look of almost childlike glee. On him, it seems terrifying. _Avernum is a place of wonders, of danger, of raw, untamed magic._";
	text2 = "_And humans have tried to pacify it. To make it safe._ He spits out the last word with disgust. _But their time is coming to an end. Soon, Avernum will be free of their weak and cowardly influence._";
	text3 = "_And, when they are gone, I will have prepared it. Prepared it to have a place for me._";

begintalknode 98;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 99;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 2 || gf(158,15) == 3;
	question = "I would like to do more work for you.";
	text1 = "_I am pleased to hear it. This task is simple, although it requires more travel. The village of Mertis lies far to the east. Just northeast of it is a natural feature of some interest._";
	text2 = "_It is a series of spiral tunnels, which have long been infested with dark magical energy. The sort that draws the undead. This power has been repressed. Descend into that spiral. You will currently find it quite ... safe._";
	text3 = "_At the deepest point in the spiral, you will find a magic circle. Break the circle. Then return to me._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,15,3);
		toggle_quest(44,1);
	break;

begintalknode 99;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 100;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 3 && gf(125,1) > 0;
	question = "I broke the bond inside the undead spiral.";
	text1 = "_Indeed. And, tell me, what happened when you did?_";

begintalknode 100;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 104;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 4 || gf(158,15) == 5;
	question = "With some hesitation, I would like to do another job for you.";
	text1 = "_Excellent. I knew that you would see some wisdom in my desires. Either that, or you want more rewards. It makes no difference to me._";
	text2 = "He hands you a small, gold scarab, about an inch long. It has flecks of onyx for eyes.";
	text3 = "_Go to the town of Spire, in the Abyss. Slip into the mayor's bedchamber. Place this under her bed. And then leave. Quickly, I suggest._";
	code =
		if (has_spec_item(22))
			rs(2);
			else set_spec_item(22,1);
		set_flag(158,15,5);
		toggle_quest(45,1);
	break;
	
begintalknode 101;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 105;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 5 && gf(58,1) > 0;
	question = "I went to Spire and placed the scarab as you requested.";
	text1 = "_Excellent._ He chuckles. _Then she is not long for this world. When the correct time comes, the scarab will come to life as she sleeps. And it will end her._";
	text2 = "_Excellent._ He chuckles. _And Mayor Annatolia, I have learned, is already dead. Whether the scarab was the cause or not, I am pleased._";
	text3 = "_Her support would have made the dragon Melanchion much stronger than would be safe for me. Now the balance of power will be maintained._";
	text4 = "He waves a hand, and one of the gates in his workshop begins to slowly open. _You are doing extremely well. I already have another task for you. I'm sure you'll be happy to hear it._";
	code = 
		if (gf(58,2) > 0)
			rs(1);
			else rs(2);
		set_flag(158,15,6);
		toggle_quest(45,3);
		award_party_xp(400,20);
		sf(158,25,1);
	break;	
	
begintalknode 102;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 106;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 6 || gf(158,15) == 7;
	question = "I will do another job for you.";
	text1 = "_Excellent. This is a goal I have been trying to attain for a long time. Once, I came close, until some meddling adventurers prevented me from succeeding._";
	text2 = "_Somewhere in the northern caves, there is a colony of intelligent spiders. Sharp and powerfully venomous, if annoying. Find the colony, and bring me back one of their eggs. Simple and straightforward._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,15,7);
		toggle_quest(46,1);
	break;
	
begintalknode 103;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 107;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 7 && has_spec_item(21);
	question = "I have the egg you requested. (Give it to him.)";
	text1 = "With utmost care, he takes the egg and examines it. _Yes ... Yes! Still intact. Perhaps smaller than I desired. But ready for ... development._";
	text2 = "He waves a hand, and one of the gates in his workshop begins to slowly open. _Now, at last, I am in position for my final move, one that will win me a place in Avernum for many years to come._";
	text3 = "_You are an excellent servant. I hope that you are ready._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,15,8);
		toggle_quest(46,3);
		award_party_xp(400,25);
		sf(158,26,1);
	break;	
	
begintalknode 104;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 108;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 8 || gf(158,15) == 9;
	question = "What is my final task?";
	text1 = "_Once, there was an Archmage in Avernum. Her name was Erika. Her power was even greater than mine. And she gave her life for your nation. What a tawdry end for such a glorious creature._";
	text2 = "_She had a tower. It was across a river west of the Abyss, perched upon one of the richest sources of raw, natural magic in these lands._";
	text3 = "_Find your way into the ruin. Go to the core of the tower. There will be a ... hostile force there. Destroy it. When it is gone, I will know, and I will come to you._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,15,9);
		toggle_quest(47,1);
	break;

begintalknode 105;
	state = 91;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Of 'our' nation? You are not an Avernite?";
	text1 = "_A true master of magic is a nation of One. Our kind goes where we will and does what we will do. I help Avernum because they have things to offer in return. And, when the chaos has calmed, I will return home._";

begintalknode 106;
	state = 91;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Can I buy any wands or potions?";
	text1 = "_Of course not. I am no tinker. Avernum asked for a certain number of items. I will create and deliver them._";

begintalknode 107;
	state = 91;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What else do they ask you to do?";
	text1 = "He looks at a cage in the corner. It looks recently used. _Certain parties in the Castle make certain requests of me. And I perform them. Discussing it with you would not be appreciated._";

begintalknode 108;
	state = 92;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "You fled because you were afraid of the slithzerikai?";
	text1 = "_Afraid? Nonsense! That rabble could not pierce my defenses! However, they made it difficult for visitors to reach me._";
	text2 = "_Much of my work depends on my finding ... allies ... to come and aid me._";

begintalknode 109;
	state = 92;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Did everyone in the Northern Isles flee?";
	text1 = "_No. There was a wizard named Shanker, a baffled, altruistic soul, who stayed to fight the slithzerikai. And, I imagine, hide from the Empire._";
	text2 = "_She is there still. If she lives._";

begintalknode 110;
	state = 92;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Anything you want from your tower, should I happen to find it?";
	text1 = "He raises his eyebrows. _Only for you to try to break in, to see how far you get before you are incinerated. Otherwise, do not think I need help from the likes of you in my own home._";

begintalknode 111;
	state = 94;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 0;
	question = "Ummmm ... Sorry. I'm too busy right now.";
	text1 = "His face betrays no reaction. _Busy? Interesting ... So am I. Leave me to my work._";
	action = END_TALK;
	
begintalknode 112;
	state = 94;
	nextstate = 95;
	condition = 1;
	question = "I would like to help you.";
	text1 = "Gladwell nods. _I saw it in you. A desire for power. The sort of power you will need to fight for your country and actually make a difference. You do want to make a difference, don't you?_";
	text2 = "_Well, there is a fort a short distance to the west. Fort Remote. There is a room within with paintings. There is a switch behind one of those paintings. Pull it. A concealed tunnel will be revealed._";
	text3 = "_Go upstairs. Find a door marked with a red stripe. Enter, find the clay seal, and break it. It will be in a magical circle. You might see some shades briefly. Don't damage them. Just return to me._";
	text4 = "_That is all. It could be done in an afternoon, if you made haste. And I will pay you well._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,15,1);
		toggle_quest(43,1);
	break;
	
begintalknode 113;
	state = 95;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Will the soldiers in Fort Remote mind this?";
	text1 = "_I doubt any of them know that those old cells exist. They were kept secret. So secret as to, most likely, be entirely forgotten._";
	
begintalknode 114;
	state = 95;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What is in the cell?";
	text1 = "_Probably nothing. But that is something I need to know._";
	text2 = "_Take note, however. Open the door with the red seal. Opening other doors might be ... unwise._";
	
begintalknode 115;
	state = 97;
	nextstate = 98;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Doesn't matter? They tried to kill me!";
	text1 = "_Quit whining. You lived. And you did not think you would receive rewards of true value without risk, did you? Go south to the private quarters south of Sorengard's workshop._";
	text2 = "_I will unlock my private quarters for you. Help yourself to what you find within. I am sure you will be mollified._";
	text3 = "_And, when you have regained your courage, speak with me again. Now that you have proved yourself, I can continue to make use of you._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,15,2);
		toggle_quest(43,3);
		award_party_xp(400,12);
		sf(158,23,1);
	break;		
	
begintalknode 116;
	state = 98;
	nextstate = 90;
	condition = 1;
	question = "But why did you want those spirits freed in the first place?";
	text1 = "He chuckles. _A good question. If you aided me further, I could tell you my true goal. To learn that, though, you would have to earn my trust._";
	
begintalknode 117;
	state = 99;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Where did all of that dark energy come from?";
	text1 = "_There are many theories. The peasantry in Mertis will, I am sure, tell you all of them. The origin does not matter, only the persistence and malevolence of the force in that place._";
	text2 = "";
	
begintalknode 118;
	state = 99;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "And what will happen when I break the circle?";
	text1 = "_I think we will all be interested in finding out. It might be perilous. And, if that scares you, let me know, so I can find an adventurer in possession of a spine._";
	
begintalknode 119;
	state = 100;
	nextstate = 90;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Aaaah! Undead! Undead all over me! They were everywhere!";
	text1 = "He seems unconcerned by the danger he put you in. _As I expected. The power of the spiral has been unleashed. Instead of fading, all of that raw magical energy will stay there, ready to be tapped._";
	text2 = "He waves a hand, and one of the gates in his workshop begins to slowly open. _Your award waits within. And, now that you have done so much for me, I think I can give you a small portion of trust._";
	text3 = "_I am sure that you are dying to ask. What does the crazy old wizard want? What is his real goal?_";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,15,4);
		toggle_quest(44,3);
		award_party_xp(400,16);
		sf(158,24,1);
	break;		
	
begintalknode 120;
	state = 101;
	nextstate = 102;
	condition = 1;
	question = "How will you prepare it?";
	text1 = "_Haven't you guessed? I am freeing the old magic. The dark magic, the raw magic, the power that is waiting to be tapped, if your kind hadn't been working so hard to drain or suppress or erase it._";
	text3 = "_But, when the cowardly and weak have fled, I will do what I can to make sure the old powers have returned._";
	
begintalknode 121;
	state = 101;
	nextstate = 103;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Prepared it for you?";
	text1 = "_When Avernum has shrunk, there will be a struggle for power, to seize the magic and resources of Avernum. Humans, slithzerikai, wizards, undead, dragons, demons, we will all fight._";
	text2 = "_I want you to help ensure that, in that time, I will have a place down here. I do not want to rule, but I will not be crushed._";
	
begintalknode 122;
	state = 102;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What does that have to do with the tasks I performed for you?";
	text1 = "_Putting powerful spirits in cells, forgotten, instead of capturing them. Destroying the raw power of the spiral, instead of mastering it? These are the actions of frightened children!_";
	
begintalknode 123;
	state = 103;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "You will still want to live down here?";
	text1 = "_Of course! Avernum is the only land for the free, powerful spirit! I will never return to the surface! Ever! I would rather be devoured by a dragon, a real risk, mind you, than abandon this place of power._";
	
begintalknode 124;
	state = 104;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What will the scarab do?";
	text1 = "_It will be my eyes. The goals of the mayor of Spire are important to my future plans._";
	
begintalknode 125;
	state = 90;
	nextstate = 105;
	condition = gf(158,15) == 5 && gf(58,2) > 0 && gf(58,1) == 0;
	question = "I tried to place the scarab as you requested. And ended up killing the mayor of Spire.";
	text1 = "_Annatolia is dead?_ He chuckles. _Then my goal is accomplished after all. Her support would have made the dragon Melanchion much stronger than would be safe for me. Now the balance of power will be maintained._";
	text2 = "He waves a hand, and one of the gates in his workshop begins to slowly open. _You are doing extremely well. I already have another task for you. I'm sure you'll be happy to hear it._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,15,6);
		toggle_quest(45,3);
		award_party_xp(400,20);
		sf(158,25,1);
	break;	
	
	
begintalknode 126;
	state = 105;
	nextstate = 90;
	condition = 1;
	question = "You used me as your assassin?";
	text1 = "_I did. This will probably be the last time I use you in such a way. Probably. Do not feel bad. She had no loyalty to Avernum, only to that dragon on your northern border._";
	text2 = "_I hope you aren't going to show tedious moral qualms now. Not with all the blood you have on your hands._";	
	
begintalknode 127;
	state = 104;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What if I am caught?";
	text1 = "_If you are seen? Then you will have to fight your way out. And, if the mayor of Spire dies in the process, I will be pleased._";
	
begintalknode 128;
	state = 106;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Where are they?";
	text1 = "_I do not know exactly. One of my agents claimed to spy such a creature in the area around Fort Draco._";
	
begintalknode 129;
	state = 106;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "How will I get one of their eggs?";
	text1 = "_An interesting question. I look forward to seeing how you answer it._";
	
begintalknode 130;
	state = 107;
	nextstate = 90;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Why did you want that egg? You aren't going to breed an army of intelligent and deadly spiders for you to command, are you?";
	text1 = "_Would you put it past me?_";

begintalknode 131;
	state = 108;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "How do you know so much about the ruin?";
	text1 = "_You are not the first servant I have sent there to claim the place. I hope you are the last. There are many who desire it, but it will be mine!_";
	
begintalknode 132;
	state = 108;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "How can I get there?";
	text1 = "_The core of the tower is underground, covered by rubble. My prior agents said that they approached it from underground._";
	text2 = "_Unless you go with enough workers to clear away tons of rock, you may need to follow the same route._";

begintalknode 133;
	state = 108;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "You will come to me? How?";
	text1 = "_I am an Archmage. The mysteries of portals and far travel are not hidden to me. Once the tower is free to be claimed, I will rush there before any rival can beat me to the reward._";
	
//begintalknode 134;
//	state = 90;
//	nextstate = -1;
//	condition = 1;
//	question = "";
//	text1 = ".";
//	text2 = "";
	
	
// Julz

begintalknode 150;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = 150;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Julz";
	text1 = "The alchemist of Patrick's Tower has been here for a very long time. Her white hair has a vivid violet streak, doubtless by choice. Her arms are dyed green up the elbows, the now-permanent residue of decades of work.";
	text2 = "She greets you with a smile. _Ah, yes. Whenever a new warrior comes to our tower, it is only a matter of time before he or she enters my workshop. We have standing orders from Solberg to aid all of your kind._";
	text3 = "_I'm Julz, and my laboratory is equipped and ready. What would you like?_";
	text5 = "Julz smiles and flicks a bit of caked residue off of her forearm. _Need any more alchemy done on your behalf?_";
	action = INTRO;


begintalknode 151;
	state = 150;
	nextstate = 151;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What sort of work do you do here?";
	text1 = "_I mix and mix and purify and bake. Not only potions, but whatever is needed for the research being done here. For the sentinels, and for the new mushrooms._";
	
begintalknode 152;
	state = 151;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What do you make for the sentinels?";
	text1 = "_Oils and solvents, to keep them clean and functioning smoothly. Even though they are creations of magic, it takes much effort to keep them in prime fighting condition._";

begintalknode 153;
	state = 151;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "How do you help with the mushrooms?";
	text1 = "_I make mulch. And substances that Horyn thinks might cure the blight. And ... Well, I don't know what she does with the mixtures I make for her. I just follow the recipes._";
	
begintalknode 154;
	state = 150;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "I would like to buy a potion.";
	text1 = "You conclude your business.";	
	code = 
		begin_shop_mode("Julz's Potions",
		  "Not surprisingly, the alchemist for Patrick's tower is quite skilled.",
		  7,4,0);	
	break;
	
begintalknode 155;
	state = 150;
	nextstate = 152;
	condition = 1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Can you make a potion for me?";
	text1 = "_I'd be happy to! Let me see the herbs you have foraged. If they are fresh enough, I can make something for you._";
	text2 = "_For example, if you brought me healing herbs in adequate quantities, I could make you healing or curing potions._";
	text3 =  "_Even better, with the right mix of herbs, I could make a brew to speed you up in combat or restore your magical energy. Very useful. Much in demand._";
	
begintalknode 156;
	state = 152;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = num_of_item(289) >= 2;
	question = "I would like a healing potion. (Give 2 sprigs of healing herbs.)";
	text1 = "You give her the herbs, and she sets to work. Soon, Julz hands you a clay jug filled with a bitter, medicinal brew.";
	action = REUSABLE;
	code = 
		take_num_of_item(289,2);
		reward_give(220);
	break;
	
begintalknode 157;
	state = 152;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = num_of_item(289) >= 1;
	question = "I would like a curing potion. (Give 1 sprig of healing herbs.)";
	text1 = "You give her the herbs, and she sets to work. Soon, Julz hands you a clay jug filled with a bitter, medicinal brew.";
	action = REUSABLE;
	code = 
		take_num_of_item(289,1);
		reward_give(221);
	break;

begintalknode 158;
	state = 152;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = num_of_item(289) >= 1 && num_of_item(290) >= 1 && num_of_item(291) >= 1;
	question = "I would like a speed potion. (Give 1 sprig each of healing, spiritual, and energetic herbs.)";
	text1 = "You give her the herbs, and she sets to work. Soon, Julz hands you a clay jug filled with a green, minty-smelling brew.";
	action = REUSABLE;
	code = 
		take_num_of_item(289,1);
		take_num_of_item(290,1);
		take_num_of_item(291,1);
		reward_give(222);
	break;

begintalknode 159;
	state = 152;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = num_of_item(289) >= 1 && num_of_item(290) >= 1 && num_of_item(291) >= 1;
	question = "I would like an energy potion. (Give 1 sprig each of healing, spiritual, and energetic herbs.)";
	text1 = "You give her the herbs, and she sets to work. Soon, Julz hands you a clay jug filled with a thick brew with little bits of brown stuff suspended in it.";
	action = REUSABLE;
	code = 
		take_num_of_item(289,1);
		take_num_of_item(290,1);
		take_num_of_item(291,1);
		reward_give(223);
	break;
	
begintalknode 160;
	state = 152;
	nextstate = 150;
	condition = 1;
	question = "I don't need any potions.";
	text1 = "_All right._";

	
begintalknode 161;
	state = 150;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "I don't need anything else.";
	text1 = "_All right. Safe travels to you then._";
	action = END_TALK;

// Sorengard

begintalknode 170;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = 170;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Sorengard";
	text1 = "You interrupt a wizard who is in the middle of some painstaking work: Using putty and sheet metal to repair the tears in the side of a sentinel. He seems happy for the interruption.";
	text2 = "After washing some oil from his hands and wiping them with a towel, he says, _I am Sorengard. Welcome to my busy little laboratory._";
	text3 = "Sorengard is well into his fifties, but it is still plain from looking at him that he is not a native Avernite. He is from the surface. He's been down here a long time, but some natural color remains in his cheeks.";
	text5 = "Sorengard chats amiably with you. He seems happy for the break from maintaining the sentinel. He watches the construct closely, though, in case it starts to fall apart. Or worse.";
	action = INTRO;

begintalknode 171;
	state = 170;
	nextstate = 171;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Tell me about the tower.";
	text1 = "_When I came down from the Empire, this is where I came. It was a good place to do my work, free of interference, and without a recent history of explosions._";
	text2 = "_And, now that Solberg is back in charge, I can be guaranteed to get the resources I need. He may be old and ... Well, he is aging, but he still has great influence in the Castle._";
	text3 = "_And now that Solberg is gone I am in charge here. I command Patrick's Tower. I never thought it would come to this._";
	text4 = "_There is always so much to do. And,_ he adds darkly, _so many to watch._";
	code = 
		if (gf(158,12) > 0)
			rs(2);
			else rs(3);
	break;
	
begintalknode 172;
	state = 170;
	nextstate = 173;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What are you working on?";
	text1 = "_I am aiding Solberg in the improvement of his sentinels. They are a powerful tool, with a variety of limitations. I am trying to expand the very short list of what they can safely do._";
	text2 = "_Fortunately, we are asking very little of them. So we shouldn't encounter the ... aahhh ... problems Solberg had._";

begintalknode 173;
	state = 170;
	nextstate = 172;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Can you teach me any spells?";
	text1 = "_I can teach you magic. It has long been one of my duties here, and sharing the secrets of our order is our duty. I believe that, which is why I came to the underworld in the first place._";
	text2 = "_Since you have been of such help to me, I can also make certain advanced spells available to you._";
	code =
		if (gf(158,16) < 4)
			rs(2);
	break;
	
begintalknode 174;
	state = 171;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Why did you leave the Empire?";
	text1 = "_No mage may learn anything, do anything, or practically even cast anything without permission from one of the Emperor's bureaucrats._";
	text2 = "_It has driven many wizards into the underworld, and Emperor Redmark has done nothing to change the laws._";
	
begintalknode 175;
	state = 171;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,12) > 0 && gf(170,8) == 0;
	question = "Where is Solberg?";
	text1 = "_He has gone to fight the slithzerikai._ Sorengard chuckles. _I wish I could see the reaction when the cranky old archmage reports for duty._";
	
begintalknode 176;
	state = 171;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "And who are you watching?";
	text1 = "_For some reason, someone decided to welcome Gladwell into our tower. He is not a trustworthy character. He uses his wealth and power to corrupt those around him, and always for his own ends._";
	text2 = "_Now that I am in charge, I would have driven him from the tower already, but for the fact that he has protectors in the Castle._";
	code =
		if (gf(158,12) == 0)
			rs(2);
	break;

begintalknode 177;
	state = 172;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "I would like to learn magic.";
	text1 = "You conclude your training.";	
	code = 
		begin_shop_mode("Sorengard's Spells",
		  "Sorengard can teach you a wide variety of spells. Since you are a soldier of Avernum, his prices are reasonable.",
		  8,3,0);	
	break;
	
begintalknode 178;
	state = 172;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,16) > 3;
	question = "I would like to learn some advanced rituals.";
	text1 = "You conclude your training.";	
	code = 
		begin_shop_mode("Sorengard's Spells",
		  "Sorengard can teach you a wide variety of powerful spells. Unfortunately, he charges a premium rate for this knowledge.",
		  9,6,0);	
	break;
	
begintalknode 179;
	state = 172;
	nextstate = 170;
	condition = 1;
	question = "I would like to discuss something else.";
	text1 = "_I am always happy to help the soldiers of Avernum._";
	
begintalknode 180;
	state = 173;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What can the constructs do?";
	text1 = "_Guard an area. Be placed somewhere, or be sent on a fixed patrol, and attack anyone not bearing some sort of symbol. Say, a bracelet._";
	text2 = "_They are reasonably good at this one, simple task. But when asked to do anything more elaborate, they are erratic. I am trying to enhance their capabilities. It is slow work, but I am optimistic._";
	
begintalknode 181;
	state = 173;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What went wrong before?";
	text1 = "_Solberg created a small province called Tranquility in far northern Avernum. He tried to use the sentinels to provide the complete defense for this new land. This made the constructs ... unstable._";
	text2 = "_Fortunately, we are all currently more realistic about what the things can do._";
	
begintalknode 182;
	state = 173;
	nextstate = 174;
	condition = gf(158,16) < 2;
	question = "Is there any way I can help?";
	text1 = "_Actually, there is. I have been looking for some hardy warriors to help with a minor matter of testing. There is a stone circle to the northwest, out in the Great Cave._";
	text2 = "_There are several weak sentinels there. I want to evaluate their organization so remote from their creator. Just go there and say, _Solberg commands,_ to the one in the center._";
	text3 = "_Once they are no longer attacking you, report what happened back to me._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,16,1);
		toggle_quest(64,1);
	break;	
	
begintalknode 183;
	state = 174;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "How will I find the stone circle?";
	text1 = "_Road signs should lead you to it. The constructs lingering there will make it unmistakable._";
	
begintalknode 184;
	state = 174;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Wait. Attack me?";
	text1 = "_Oh, yes. Don't worry. They are weaker than normal. You should have no trouble fending off their onslaught._";
	text2 = "_Defend yourself for a short time and then return to me. You will be rewarded for your pains._";
	
begintalknode 185;
	state = 170;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,16) == 1 && gf(143,1) > 0;
	question = "I found and tested your constructs. (Describe what happened.)";
	text1 = "Sorengard shakes his head, irritated. _Once again, our control fails at a distance. But the break in control is very interesting. The nature of it, I mean._";
	text2 = "He walks over to a magical barrier and mutters a few words. The barrier fades. _Please feel free to take what you find beyond, as a reward._";
	text3 = "_Happily, while you were gone, I had several ideas for what to do about the sentinels. If you wish to continue to aid me, I have even better rewards to offer you._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,16,2);
		toggle_quest(64,3);
		award_party_xp(400,12);
		if (gf(158,28) == 0)
			sf(158,28,1);
			else rs(2);
	break;		
	
begintalknode 186;
	state = 170;
	nextstate = 175;
	condition = gf(158,16) == 2 || gf(158,16) == 3;
	question = "I suppose that I can test your sentinels again.";
	text1 = "_Then I will travel out first thing to make the necessary modifications. Proceed as before, but tell the sentinel in the center, 'Sorengard commands.'_";
	text2 = "_Be wary. If I am successful, the sentinels will do a superior job of acting in concert. You will need to be prepared to prevent any injury. Fortunately, their onslaught will be very brief, only long enough to see if they function in concert._";
	text3 = "He looks you over. _And I suggest you spend more time training and gathering protective equipment before you attempt this next test. Please._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,16,3);
		toggle_quest(65,1);
		if (average_level() < 20)
			rs(3);
	break;	
	
begintalknode 187;
	state = 175;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Ummmm ... Is there any way to test these things that doesn't involve being blasted with spells?";
	text1 = "_I wish this was the case. It frequently worries me. However, Horyn assures me that I am merely being excessively sentimental._";
	text2 = "_The proof of the pudding is in the eating. And the only way to see how well something fights is to fight it._";	
	
begintalknode 188;
	state = 170;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,16) == 3 && gf(143,2) > 0;
	question = "I tested your constructs again. (Describe what happened.)";
	text1 = "Sorengard seems unseemly gleeful, considering the pounding you took at the hands (well, razor-sharp extensions) of his creations. _Then the control problem may well be solved. This will be most helpful._";
	text2 = "_I will clear the way to my inner workshop. Please avail yourself of whatever you find there. I am most grateful to you._";	
	code = 
		set_flag(158,16,4);
		toggle_quest(65,3);
		award_party_xp(400,20);
		sf(158,29,1);
	break;		
	
begintalknode 189;
	state = 170;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,16) == 4;
	question = "Need any more help with your constructs?";
	text1 = "_Not yet. Now that I can maintain control, I am working on their intelligence, trying to give them a rudimentary decision-making capability. But my work is too much in its infancy to be tested._";
	text2 = "Rudimentary decision-making capability. Wow. There is sure to be no way that can go wrong.";

// Ildiko

begintalknode 194;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = 190;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Name";
	text1 = "This young woman is the tower librarian. She is carrying around heavy armloads of scrolls and moldy tomes, keeping everything as organized as possible. Considering how disorganized most wizards are, it's a tough job.";
	text2 = "She frowns when you approach her. _Soldiers. Oh, dear. I am Ildiko of the Cszaky clan. Librarian and researcher._";
	text3 = "_Please be careful not to knock anything over. And don't touch anything without cleaning your hands first. I have had enough problems with lost books lately._";
	text5 = "Ildiko smiles nervously at you. _You haven't damaged any of our rare books yet. I appreciate it. Is there anything I can do for you? Briefly?_";
	action = INTRO;

begintalknode 195;
	state = 190;
	nextstate = 191;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Tell me about the library.";
	text1 = "_The library here is one of the finest collections of magical knowledge in Avernum, second only to the one in the Tower Colony._";
	text2 = "_And we have hopes of overtaking it soon. Especially if it explodes again._";
	
begintalknode 196;
	state = 191;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Where is the Tower Colony?";
	text1 = "_It is directly east from here, past the Great Portal. A long journey. It has a more storied history. Including explosions and calamity, I might add._";
	text2 = "_We are quieter and easier to overlook, but much learning takes place here._";
	
begintalknode 197;
	state = 191;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "The Tower Colony exploded?";
	text1 = "_Once, when it was the Tower of Magi. A great and destructive calamity, one that almost destroyed all of Avernum with it._";
	text2 = "_Fortunately, it is not likely to happen again._";
	text3 = "_And I have heard that, when the Great Portal went up, the Tower Colony has had another calamity. I would not, I am sad to say, be surprised._";
	code =
		if (gf(170,1) < 12)
			rs(3);
			else rs(2);
	break;
	
begintalknode 198;
	state = 190;
	nextstate = 192;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What sort of research do you do?";
	text1 = "_Oh, I have little time for research anymore. But when I do, I study magical barriers. You may have seen several of them in the tower. I created some of them. They are very useful._";
	
begintalknode 199;
	state = 192;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Can you teach me how to create them?";
	text1 = "_I am afraid not. It is a very difficult and complicated ritual, requiring the creation and maintenance of an infinitely delicate web of power. It would take years to teach you._";
	
begintalknode 200;
	state = 192;
	nextstate = 193;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Can you dispel the barriers once created?";
	text1 = "_Only ones I have made. In those cases, I know what strings to pull to make the barrier unravel._";
	text2 = "_The spell to destroy barriers is extremely hard to learn. It is a cherished secret, and all mages are loath to share it._";
	
begintalknode 201;
	state = 193;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Where might I learn it?";
	text1 = "_I have no idea. Though the Tower Colony is often the best place to learn obscure magic._";
	
begintalknode 202;
	state = 193;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Is that spell the only way to dispel barriers?";
	text1 = "_No. There are also rare items called piercing crystals. Crystals infused with a power that can disrupt the barriers._";
	
begintalknode 203;
	state = 190;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Can I purchase any of your scrolls?";
	text1 = "She looks thoroughly shocked. _I should say not!_";
	text2 = "";
	
begintalknode 204;
	state = 190;
	nextstate = 195;
	condition = gf(158,17) < 2;
	question = "You mentioned something about a lost book?";
	text1 = "_I am afraid so. One of the apprentices was using it to try to pacify and command an undead spirit. The creature broke loose and killed him. Now it, the body, and my book are trapped in the holding cells._";
	text2 = "She doesn't seem too upset about the dead apprentice. She probably thinks he received a fair punishment for endangering a rare book.";
	text3 = "_I would give a valuable reward for whoever could kill the wraith and enable me to recover the tome. They would have to be able to get into the holding cell first, of course._";
	text4 = "_Be warned. The wraith was a nasty creature to begin with, and its time in the cell has likely left it very irritable. Please don't take offense, but you might not be up to the challenge._";
	code = 
		set_flag(158,17,1);
		toggle_quest(66,1);
		if (average_level() > 8)
			rs(4);
	break;
	
begintalknode 205;
	state = 195;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Where is the holding cell?";
	text1 = "_The holding cells are below the tower. The stairway down is outside Julz's workshop._";
	
begintalknode 206;
	state = 195;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Why is it hard to get into the cell?";
	text1 = "_The apprentice made a magical barrier, sealing himself in. Very unwise. And, though I taught him how to make the barriers myself, and what a waste of time that was, I am not able to dispel one he created._";
	
begintalknode 207;
	state = 190;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,17) == 1 && gf(158,11) > 0;
	question = "The wraith is dead.";
	text1 = "For the first time since you met her, she smiles. _And is the tome safe?_ You assure her that it is. _I am glad. The rituals in it are quite powerful. I would not mind if you perused it yourself._";
	text2 = "She fetches a pair of scroll tubes from a nearby shelf. _Here is a reward for your efforts. Redundant items from the collection. I hope that you find them useful._";	
	code = 
		set_flag(158,17,2);
		toggle_quest(66,3);
		award_party_xp(400,15);
		reward_give(123);
		reward_give(233);
	break;	
	
// Horyn

begintalknode 210;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = 210;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Name";
	text1 = "The fungal patches in the central courtyard are being tended by a single, withered, bespectacled woman. She walks among the rows, bent half over, peering at the mushrooms. Sometimes she makes a note or takes a sample.";
	text2 = "She shows all the signs of a long life as an alchemist. Stained skin. Twitching. Occasionally batting her hands at creatures that aren't there. A late life of botanical pursuits seems to suit her.";
	text3 = "When you get close, she straightens up and peers at you. _Soldiers? The soldiers at last? To help with my mushrooms. Good ... Good. I am Horyn._";
	text5 = "Horyn paces among her mushrooms. You notice that practically all of them are infected with the Blight, but some are far more afflicted than others.";
	text6 = "_Yes ... Yes. Keep the better, discard the worse. That is how we proceed. What else do you want?_";
	action = INTRO;

begintalknode 211;
	state = 210;
	nextstate = 211;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Tell me about your work.";
	text1 = "_I am trying to breed a new sort of mushroom, one that resists the Blight. I am far from alone in this. Everyone is trying to do the same thing. Wizards. Farmers. None have succeeded._";
	text2 = "_But I have better resources than most. So I am hopeful._";
	
begintalknode 212;
	state = 210;
	nextstate = 213;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Where are you from?";
	text1 = "_I did my work on one of the Northern Isles, in a colony of mages led by Archmage Shanker. Then the Slith Horde isolated us, and I came here._";
	text2 = "_I was their alchemist. I ... Aaah! Go away!_ She swats at something invisible near her face.";
	
begintalknode 213;
	state = 210;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,12) == 0 && gf(158,18) == 0;
	question = "You need help with your work?";
	text1 = "_I do. But not from just anyone. The Castle promised me a skilled, talented, and violent assistant. If you are the one who was sent, you should get Solberg's permission to fight here before I can let you help me._";
	
begintalknode 214;
	state = 210;
	nextstate = 215;
	condition = (gf(158,12) > 0 || gf(158,18) > 0) && gf(158,2) == 0;
	question = "I can help you with your mushrooms.";
	text1 = "_Can you? Can you really? I am so pleased. I have had an assortment of promising fungal strains in quarantine downstairs for weeks, waiting to be tested. But certain intruders have prevented us from evaluating them properly._";
	text2 = "_If you could go down to the testing chamber, get rid of the squatters and other invaders, and run the test, I would be most grateful._";
	code = 
		toggle_quest(67,1);
	break;	
	
begintalknode 215;
	state = 211;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Why is it such a difficult task? Can't you use magic?";
	text1 = "She chuckles. _Magic is of little use against the wonder and complexity and mystery of life. All of our efforts are but clumsy and crude._";
	text2 = "_It was a miracle that wizards were able to make the plants that make life in Avernum possible, and that was only achieved by slightly modifying existing forms of life._";
	
begintalknode 216;
	state = 211;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What resources do you have?";
	text1 = "_Wizards. Alchemists. And a huge range of caverns under our feet, for use in quarantine and testing._";
	
begintalknode 217;
	state = 211;
	nextstate = 212;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Have you made any progress?";
	text1 = "_I have made strains of fungus that are slower to catch the blight. And slower still. Which is like progress, except that they still eventually fall to it. Then they are useless._";
	
begintalknode 218;
	state = 212;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What happens when you eat a blighted mushroom?";
	text1 = "_Generally, uncontrollable projectile vomiting._";
	
begintalknode 219;
	state = 213;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Who is Shanker?";
	text1 = "_A mighty wizard from the surface. She is still there, protecting her colony from the savages. I wish her well, but not even a mighty wizard can stand alone against such force._";
	
begintalknode 220;
	state = 213;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Did something just attack you?";
	text1 = "_A little bat? Didn't you see it? My, my ... People in this tower have such awful eyesight._";
	
begintalknode 221;
	state = 215;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What exactly is this experiment?";
	text1 = "_I have bred a number of different new strains of mushroom, each of which has a chance of resisting the Blight. They are growing safely downstairs, far from the Blight._";
	text2 = "_Now I need a small amount of Blight to be released near them, to see how well they handle the presence of a limited amount of the infection. If any of the samples survive, Avernum's troubles may be ended!_";
	
begintalknode 222;
	state = 215;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Where do I enter the tunnels?";
	text1 = "_You will have to leave the tower and travel west, toward Fort Remote. Here._ She points out a location on your map. (Bring up the world map to see where the entrance is.)";
	text2 = "_It should be marked with warning signs. Go downstairs, pass the guards, and follow the signs to the fields._";
	text3 = "_Oh, before I forget ..._ She hands you an odd bracelet. It is made of woven twine, encasing a polished piece of turquoise. _That will give you passage past the guards. Glad I remembered to give it to you. Now you won't be killed._";
	code =
		mark_quest_dest(198,756,0,67);		
		if (has_spec_item(23))
			rs(3);
			else set_spec_item(23,1);
	break;
	
begintalknode 223;
	state = 215;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Tell me about the squatters.";
	text1 = "_Somehow, some hungry Avernites snuck past the sentinels and infiltrated the caves. They are eating my samples! Here I am, trying to save them all, and they are devouring the very experiments that might have fed them all!_";
	text2 = "_Oh, they make me so angry! They're hiding in the tunnels somewhere. Find them and drive them out. However you want._";
	
begintalknode 224;
	state = 215;
	nextstate = 216;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Tell me about the other invaders.";
	text1 = "_Some of the fungal mixtures I created have become ... ahhh .. active. On their own. One of them infected my assistant and made him very ... fungal. It is a tragedy. And very inconvenient._";
	text2 = "_My assistant/monster is lurking in the fields directly beneath us. He will have to be destroyed before the experiment can take place._";
	
begintalknode 225;
	state = 215;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "How do I complete the experiment?";
	text1 = "_There is a wheel in the middle of the fields. Turn it to release the Blight samples. Don't worry. The mold is harmless to humanoids. Wait and see what happens. Then report back to me._";
	
begintalknode 226;
	state = 216;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Is there any way to cure him?";
	text1 = "_Well, the first thing the fungus did was liquefy a large part of his head. So it is unlikely._";
	
begintalknode 227;
	state = 210;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,2) > 0 && gf(158,1) < 2;
	question = "The experiment is complete. (Describe what happened.)";
	text1 = "She nods. She is trying to remain impassive, but you can see how disappointed she is. _I ... I see. I had truly thought one of those samples would resist the plague. And yet ... I am back to the beginning._";
	text2 = "_It is a great setback. But at least I have learned more. I thank you for your assistance. If the Castle sent you, please report back to them that you have aided me._";
	text3 = "_Oh, yes. And Solberg gave me this to defend myself from any fungal creatures. I see no reason to keep it. Here._ She hands you a long, silver dagger."; 
	code = 
		set_flag(158,1,2);
		toggle_quest(67,3);
		award_party_xp(400,10);
		reward_give(68);
	break;
	
	
begintalknode 228;
	state = 210;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = gf(158,1) > 1;
	question = "What will you do now?";
	text1 = "_Get back to work. The cave below us must be cleared, scrubbed and burned to rid it of the Blight. Then I will breed new varieties of mushrooms and test them._";
	text2 = "_It will take months. An immediate solution to Avernum's problems will not come from here, I am afraid._";	
	

// Cheeseball

begintalknode 233;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = 230;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Name";
	question = "Cheeseball Ten";
	text1 = "There is a huge beast stalking the paths behind the tower, hunting for prey. It looks like a hellhound, but it has a distinct feline grace. It's also several hundred pounds of solid claw and muscle.";
	text2 = "Yet, it's not a mindless beast. It boldly walks up and inspects you. Then, it says, in a voice that sounds like two large rocks scraping together, _I hope you are allowed to be here. If not, I will devour you at my master's command._";
	text3 = "_I am Cheeseball Ten, loyal familiar to the master._ It seems very proud to say such a peculiar name. _Servant of the mighty Archmage Solberg._";
	text5 = "Cheeseball Ten lurks in the shadows, keeping pace with you, watching you for any sign of treachery. It occasionally grows bored enough with the hunt to speak with you.";
	action = INTRO;
	
begintalknode 234;
	state = 230;
	nextstate = 232;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What are you?";
	text1 = "_I am a familiar, one of a long line of familiars, proudly and loyally serving the great Archmage Solberg!_";
	text2 = "It stands up tall and proud and bares its vicious teeth. _My line has been polite, obediently serving the master, in one way or another, since he came to Avernum._";
	
begintalknode 235;
	state = 230;
	nextstate = 233;
	condition = 1;
	question = "You serve the archmage?";
	text1 = "Cheeseball Ten lets out a long, throaty growl. _Ahrrrr ... Yes! I defend him, and I patrol the tower for invaders. Though we both have hope. For more._";
	
begintalknode 236;
	state = 230;
	nextstate = 231;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Why are you stalking me?";
	text1 = "_Ghrrrrr. It is what I was created to do. I would not take it personally. As long as you do nothing wrong, you are safe._";
	
begintalknode 237;
	state = 231;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Do something wrong? Like what?";
	text1 = "_Hrrrrr ... That is entirely up to my master. Again, it is nothing personal._";
	
begintalknode 238;
	state = 232;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What is a familiar?";
	text1 = "_A wizard's servant, conjured from pure magic, created to provide advice or defense or companionship. We can take any form. Birds. Cats._";
	text2 = "_Or, in my case, unstoppable killing machine._";
	
begintalknode 239;
	state = 232;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "And you say all of Solberg's familiars have been polite and loyal?";
	text1 = "_Of course. Why else have a familiar?_";
	text2 = "_Solberg assured me that this was the case, and I would never doubt the word of the master._";
	
begintalknode 240;
	state = 233;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "Have you caught any invaders?";
	text1 = "_A few. I have devoured several goblins._ The familiar winces in distaste at the memory.";
	text2 = "_Such vile creatures are beneath my attention, and they do not taste good. However, after the annoying chase they led me on, consuming them seemed the only proper punishment._";
	
begintalknode 241;
	state = 233;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "What do you hope for?";
	text1 = "_The Archmage does not like being kept here, out of the way, uninvolved. He has made no secret of it. He has promised me that, one day, we will emerge and I can feel the throats of worthy enemies collapse between my teeth!_";
	text2 = "Cheeseball Ten drools in enthusiasm.";

////

begintalknode 270;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "Patrick's Tower is guarded, in part, by powerful magical sentinels. They wait, quietly and tirelessly, for someone to give the command word that will turn them into tornadoes of destruction.";
	text2 = "Until then, they stand here, gathering dust and mold. They don't react in any way to your presence.";

begintalknode 271;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "The non-sentinel soldiers stationed at Patrick's Tower are a worried lot. Between the sentinels and the eccentric wizards they answer to, they tend to keep to themselves and try to avoid being incinerated.";
	text2 = "You speak with them for a while, but you only learn that being around wizards means dodging a lot of explosions, exhalations of poisonous gas, and angry summonings. Which, of course, you already knew.";
	
begintalknode 272;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "There are several apprentices in the tower, learning the secrets of magic and alchemy. Like all magical apprentices in Avernum, they have taken vows of silence.";
	text2 = "Not helpful to you, of course, but it does mean one less person to talk to.";

begintalknode 273;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "__";

begintalknode 274;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "__";

begintalknode 275;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "__";

begintalknode 276;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "__";

begintalknode 277;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "special";
	text1 = "__";



		
begintalknode 299;
	state = -1;
	nextstate = -1;
	condition = 1;
	question = "";
	text1 = "Unfortunately, the Great Cave was a poor place to begin your life of crime. Most of the soldiers have had to travel northeast to fight the slithzerikai, but enough remain down here to hunt you down.";
	text2 = "You are jailed in Fort Remote. By the time you are able to get free, the multiple disasters that afflict Avernum have doomed you and all around you.";
		code =
		erase_char(30000);
	break;
	